Woodstock Film Festival LET'S TALK FILM! Podcast Woodstock Film Festival 2023 Panel: Current + Future State of Indie Cinema | John Sloss | Eugene Hernandez | Bob Berney | Wendy Ettinger
Nov 1, 2023
Join industry pioneers John Sloss, an entertainment lawyer and producer known for films like *Green Book*, Bob Berney, CEO of Picturehouse with hits like *My Big Fat Greek Wedding*, and Eugene Hernandez, Sundance Director and Indiewire co-founder, as they navigate the indie cinema landscape. They discuss the challenges of streaming's dominance, the importance of theatrical releases, and innovative distribution strategies. The conversation highlights the vibrant community of film festivals and how documentaries are reshaping education in the industry.
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Early Indie Distribution Challenges
- Bob Berney recalls successfully releasing Happiness despite studio interference.
- He also found success with Memento and Y Tu Mamá También by going around the traditional system.
Netflix's Early Flexibility
- Bob Berney shares how Pan's Labyrinth, an acclaimed film, was initially rejected by HBO due to being in Spanish.
- Netflix, then an underdog, acquired it, demonstrating their flexibility and willingness to break traditional rules.
Indie Films Face Distribution Hurdles
- While large studios like MGM are returning to theatrical releases, independent films face challenges.
- There is no major streamer currently interested in acquiring smaller indie films.