How To Make A $7K Feature Film With a Crew of 3: An Interview With Filmmaker Joe Burke

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Joe Burke to discuss his incredible journey making the feature film Burt for just $7,000. Executive produced by David Gordon Green, the film follows a street musician with Parkinson's disease who discovers he has a son.

Throughout our conversation, we explore Joe's innovative approach to micro-budget filmmaking, including how he infused real-life relationships into the narrative.
Topics covered include:

• How Joe cast his non-actor subjects in their first ever film roles
• Shooting an entire feature in 7 days with just a 3-person crew
• The strategic use of black & white cinematography to elevate production value
• Creating compelling narrative films without traditional scripts
• Navigating 28 festival rejections before winning Best Picture awards
• Self-distributing via theatrical screenings while building community partnerships

Links from the show:

Burt The Movie - Website

Joe Burke - Instagram (@joeburkfilm)

Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.