Truly Independent: Demystifying the Indie Film Journey

This episode of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation , a nonprofit dedicated to empowering filmmakers who tell stories of faith, hope, and connection. Learn more or get involved at HelpThemSeeFoundation.org . 🎙️ In this week’s episode, Garrett Batty and Daren Smith share an exclusive Q&A from a producer retreat at Sundance, where they screened Faith of Angels for a ro...

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Daren Smith welcome Emmy-nominated actor Kirby Heyborne to talk about creativity, collaboration, and the launch of the Help Them See Foundation — a new nonprofit model supporting faith-based and mission-driven films. From behind-the-scenes stories of Faith of Angels to Kirby’s powerful work on Making Good, and finally to the vision for Help T...

Check Out https://www.helpthemseefoundation.org Garrett and Daren break down the real differences between a spec script written on speculation, no limits, showcase your voice and a production script written to be made, budget-aware, strategic. They cover when to write each, why treatments can sometimes be a smarter move, and how leverage shifts depending on your role as writer or filmmaker. Plus:...

Navigating The Development Process in Indie Filmmaking with Joel Ackerman This episode of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, which aids filmmakers in creating impactful feature films. Hosts Daren and Garrett welcome special guest Joel Ackerman, a seasoned development expert known for his work on viral ads like Poopourri and projects with Angel Studios. Discussion topic...

Demystifying Sizzles: Crafting Effective Proofs of Concept In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith explore the purpose and execution of 'sizzles' or 'proofs of concept' in the independent film world. Sponsored by the Help Them See Foundation, the discussion covers how sizzles can serve to attract investors, cast, and distributors, and even assist in early marketin...

Sponsored by The Help Them See Foundation: https://www.helpthemseefoundation.org In this episode of Truly Independent, supported by the Help Them See Foundation, Daren and the host discuss the transition into Season 3, focusing on pre-production and scriptwriting. Starting from the writing process and different techniques, they share updates on their individual projects. Daren introduces his new p...

AI-Generated Content and Storytelling: Navigating the Landscape of Independent Filmmaking In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the implications of AI-generated TV shows for independent filmmakers, focusing on Fable's Showrunner app. They explore the challenges and opportunities that AI content may bring to the indie film industry and how storytellers c...

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith welcome independent filmmaker Graham Northrup. Graham shares his fascinating journey from being a theater educator to becoming an independent filmmaker. He discusses his decision to leave his theater career during the COVID-19 pandemic, his process of self-education in filmmaking, and the production of his debut feature fi...

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking. They introduce guest Greg Beckers, a talent manager turned producer and distributor, who shares insights into the business side of filmmaking. Greg talks about the importance of LinkedIn for networking, the challenges in talent management, the intricacies of film sales a...

Discovering Independent Film with Bryan Louzil of Mometu  @freemometu   @mometucollegefilmfest eventbrite.com/e/1475275411469?aff=oddtcreator In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith are joined by guest Bryan Louzil, co-founder of Mometu, a streaming platform focused on hand-curated independent films. Bryan shares his fascinating upbringing in the film industry, th...

Creating a $10,000 Short Film: A Truly Independent Journey Does an iPhone have what it takes to shoot a professional film? In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss their recent project, a short film funded with a $10,000 budget, filmed using iPhones. They delve into the inspiration behind the project, their approach to working with a minimal budget, and the logi...

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith welcome guest McKay Stevens to discuss the creative and practical processes behind independent filmmaking. The conversation covers McKay's project 'Apocalypse Sasquatch', the importance of passion and understanding client needs when pitching, and real-life insights into navigating development phases. They reminisce about pre...

In this milestone episode marking their one-year anniversary, hosts Garrett and Daren welcome Jon Cheney, founder of the General AI Proficiency Institute. The conversation delves into the impact of AI on the filmmaking industry, discussing advancements in AI technology, its potential to lower production costs, and its implications for creators. Jon shares insights on how filmmakers can leverage AI...

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' Darren Smith and Garrett Batty address the frustrations and realities of independent filmmaking, sharing their personal experiences and insights. Key topics include the importance of aligning your film projects with market demand, the indispensable role of building momentum, and the need for resilient and continuous execution. They emphasize starting small,...

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith share their experiences and insights into the world of indie filmmaking with a focus on international co-productions. Garrett, calling in from Abidjan, Ivory Coast, discusses the challenges and benefits of filming abroad, using various co-production models, and working with local fixers and production companies. They expl...

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Darren Smith and Garrett Batty introduce Steven Murray, co-CEO of Bingeable. The conversation delves into the transformative potential of Bingeable, an innovative platform enabling indie filmmakers to directly monetize and market their films by leveraging social media and community engagement. Steven shares his journey from the music industry to film, hi...

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith tackle the challenges independent filmmakers face with AI, algorithms, and audience building. They discuss the integration of AI in the filmmaking process, the importance of engaging with the algorithm to promote long-form content despite infrequent releases, and the necessity of building and understanding a dedicated audie...

In this episode of Truly Independent, Darren Smith and Garrett Batty discuss the importance of independent filmmakers recognizing their value in the industry. They explore the concept of Hollywood's dependence on indie films for fresh talent and innovative storytelling. The conversation delves into leveraging creative freedom, building an audience, and fostering diverse voices. The hosts also anal...

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith are joined by filmmaker Cameron Sawyer, who details his challenging but rewarding journey transforming the beloved book series 'Fable Haven' into a film. Cameron shares insights on indie filmmaking, the struggle of securing rights and funding, and the eventual partnership with Angel Studios. The discussion highlights the im...

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Darren Smith and Garrett Batty discuss their journey through the indie film industry, the balance between indie filmmaking and mainstream studios, and the importance of perseverance and hope. They highlight the successes of industry contemporaries like Jared Hess and reflect on the timely topic of Netflix versus YouTube as platforms for filmmakers. The...

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the breaking news that the Sundance Film Festival is relocating from Utah to Boulder, Colorado starting in 2027. They explore the implications of this move, debunk myths about the reasons behind it, and share their personal experiences with Sundance in Utah. The hosts also delve into the complexities of independent film d...

In this episode of Truly Independent, Darren Smith and Garrett Batty discuss the journey of releasing their indie film, Faith of Angels, post-theatrical run. They share insights into the challenges and strategies involved in making the decision to release the film on streaming platforms like Angel Studios and Living Scriptures. They also delve into the complexities of independent film distribution...

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith dive into the indie film journey of Lee and Catherine, the creators behind the movie Rally Caps. Discussing their experiences from initial concept to marketing and distribution, Lee and Catherine share valuable insights into the making of a kids' baseball film. They highlight the importance of wearing multiple hats in filmm...

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Darren Smith and Garrett Batty delve into the often overlooked yet critical aspect of filmmaking: marketing. Joined by film industry veteran Jonas Barnes, who transitioned to marketing during the 2023 Hollywood strikes, they explore strategies indie filmmakers can adopt from major studios to ensure their films reach the right audience. Jonas emphasizes...

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Darren Smith and Garrett Batty dive deep into the intricate process of independent filmmaking. Darren updates listeners on his current project, a $10 million film fund, highlighting the challenges of networking and fundraising. Garrett shares insights into his series 'Saints and Outlaws,' and they discuss the unique struggles and pivots required in the...