The Rise of ‘Film Collectives’ and the Future of Indie Financing
The dream of a lone screenwriter selling a spec script for seven figures is largely a relic of the past. Today, 83% of independent films rely on equity financing, a figure that’s steadily climbing as traditional studio gatekeepers loosen their grip. But accessing that equity isn’t about a lucky break anymore; it’s increasingly about finding – or building – a community. Enter a new breed of “film collectives” like Get It Made, offering a blend of development, networking, and crucially, access to non-traditional funding sources.
Beyond the Script: The Evolving Value Proposition of Pay-to-Play
For years, “pay-to-play” has carried a negative connotation, often associated with predatory contests and workshops promising the impossible. And rightfully so. But the landscape is shifting. While submitting to festivals like Sundance ($125) or the Nicholls Fellowship ($130) remains a legitimate, low-cost option, the real evolution lies in platforms offering a more holistic approach. These aren’t just about getting eyes on your script; they’re about building a viable project – and a network to support it.
Get It Made, founded by Matt Boda and Sylvie Dang Boda, exemplifies this trend. Their $99/month membership isn’t a fee for consideration; it’s an investment in a development pipeline, mentorship from industry veterans, and access to a curated network of potential investors – “the dentists, the doctors, the people that made a zillion dollars in finance,” as Boda puts it. This model acknowledges a fundamental truth: many aspiring filmmakers lack not talent, but the infrastructure and connections to turn their ideas into reality.
The Midlife Movie Maker and the Democratization of Funding
Interestingly, Get It Made’s core demographic isn’t the fresh-faced film school graduate. Boda notes a significant number of members are midlife professionals revisiting long-held creative ambitions. This speaks to a broader trend: the democratization of funding. As traditional avenues become more competitive, individuals with disposable income are increasingly willing to invest directly in projects they believe in, bypassing the traditional studio system. This is fueled, in part, by the success of crowdfunding platforms and the growing acceptance of alternative financing models.
The story of “Plight,” Get It Made’s first completed feature, underscores this point. Shot on a $170,000 budget (60% from Get It Made, 40% from the writer/owner of a solar company), the film’s scrappy production was made possible by a network of favors and a willingness to embrace unconventional funding. The all-autistic cast and dystopian “Stand By Me” premise further demonstrate a willingness to take risks that might be less palatable to mainstream studios.
Scaling the Collective: Challenges and Opportunities
Get It Made is currently raising $500,000 to scale its operations and fund more projects, aiming to grow from 100 to 500 members. This expansion presents both opportunities and challenges. Maintaining the quality of mentorship and the effectiveness of the funding network will be crucial. The platform’s selective acceptance process – rejecting applicants who lack dedication – is a smart move, ensuring a committed community. However, scaling while preserving that selectivity will be key.
Furthermore, the success of models like Get It Made could inspire similar collectives focused on specific genres or demographics. We might see specialized platforms catering to horror filmmakers, documentary creators, or underrepresented voices. This fragmentation could lead to a more diverse and resilient independent film ecosystem, less reliant on the whims of a few major players.
The Legal Landscape: Navigating Equity and Ownership
It’s crucial to acknowledge the inherent risks involved in any investment, especially in the volatile world of filmmaking. As Boda rightly points out, legal counsel is essential. Understanding the terms of any equity stake offered – typically ranging from 10-30% – is paramount. Writers need to carefully consider the implications of relinquishing a portion of their project’s ownership in exchange for funding and support. Resources like the Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute can provide a foundational understanding of equity financing principles.
The Future is Collaborative
The rise of platforms like Get It Made isn’t about replacing traditional Hollywood; it’s about creating an alternative. It’s a recognition that the future of independent film lies not in waiting for a gatekeeper to open a door, but in building your own table – and inviting others to join. This collaborative model, fueled by a growing pool of non-traditional investors, represents a significant shift in the power dynamics of the industry. The question isn’t whether pay-to-play will disappear, but whether it will evolve into a more equitable and sustainable ecosystem for independent filmmakers.
What role do you see community-driven funding playing in the future of independent film? Share your thoughts in the comments below!