Building Netflix Thrillers While Retaining IP With Filmmaker Anna Elizabeth James

In this episode I’m joined by filmmaker Anna Elizabeth James, whose psychological thrillers Deadly Illusions and Held Hostage in My House both found major success on Netflix, including top-chart placement on the platform.

Throughout the interview we break down Anna’s unconventional approach to building a sustainable filmmaking career outside the traditional studio system. We dive deep into intellectual property ownership, licensing vs selling films outright, and how filmmakers can retain long-term leverage while still working with major distributors and streamers.

We also explore how shifting industry economics are creating new opportunities for independent storytellers who understand how to position themselves strategically. 

Topics covered include:

• How Deadly Illusions and Held Hostage in My House reached Netflix
• Licensing vs selling films, and why IP ownership matters more than ever
• What filmmakers should know about distributors, streamers, and rights reversion
• Navigating the post-streaming-boom slowdown and emerging opportunities
• Why film festivals aren’t the only viable path anymore
• Thinking entrepreneurially without sacrificing creative integrity
• The future of branded storytelling and creator-led business models

Links from the show:

Anna Elizabeth James – IMDb

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