Lower Production Costs, Increase Returns

So you have a good idea for a film… great, so does everyone.  The problem with most filmmakers raising equity financing is a complete lack of thought regarding how their film is going to make money.  Returns are the only thing that matter to the majority of investors.  Before you deliver your first pitch, be able to answer this question in a thoughtful, precise and convincing way.  Focus on distribution, marketing and keeping production costs low.  Investors care little of a film’s moral and cultural impact.  Your job is to convey how those aspects translate to profits on the bottom line.

I recently came upon a good guide for lowering production costs.  Eliminating/restricting some of these elements will help you keep costs low and mitigate downside risk.

1. Crowd scenes
2. Music
3. Too many characters
4. Multiple Locations
5. Exterior Shots
6. Dolly shots or tracking shots
7. CGI Effects
8. Music/Singing
9. Blue screen/green screen
10. Television and movie clips