In this episode, host GG Hawkins hosts a roundtable discussion with microbudget filmmakers at the Austin Film Festival. They share their journeys of creating feature films under tight budgets and high personal stakes. Each filmmaker provides insight into the emotional, physical, and financial tolls of producing indie films while managing personal challenges. Despite the struggles, their stories are underscored by the resilience and camaraderie that helped them see their projects through.

The discussion touches on how these filmmakers greenlit their own projects, self-funded, and navigated logistical and emotional hurdles. From crafting stories inspired by personal traumas to relying on a supportive community to rally resources, the episode reveals what it truly takes to complete a microbudget film. The filmmakers open up about facing setbacks, from COVID shutdowns to creative crises, while pushing forward in pursuit of their vision.

Panelists featured in this episode include:

Sisters

Sarah Khasrovi (Story By, Lead)
Susie Yankou (Writer/Director, Lead)

Lady Parts

Bonnie Gross (Screenwriter, Executive Producer)
Edith Belmont (Editor)

Young King

Bryant T Griffin (Writer, Director)
Selena Leoni, p.g.a. (Producer)

Crossword

Michael Vlamis (Co-writer, Director, Producer, and Actor)

The Ego Death of Queen Cecilia

Travis White (Producer)
Jo Schaeffer (Lead, Producer)

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with indie filmmakers to discuss:

The personal inspiration behind their microbudget films
Emotional and physical tolls in the process of making a low-budget film
Strategies for overcoming logistical challenges, from location scouting to equipment sourcing
The importance of a supportive filmmaking community in DIY film production
How each filmmaker dealt with setbacks and moments of doubt
Key lessons from their experiences in indie filmmaking at AFF

Memorable Quotes:

“If I was going to do this and fail, it would be good to have a support system around us.” (20:10)
“Making the movie, getting picture lock… you’re only 60% there.” (44:13)
“It’s like a constant vulnerability. It’s like cutting yourself open and letting your guts out every day.” (25:27)
“I don’t know if I’ll do this again… It’s incredible, but the toll is so high.” (50:42)

Resources:

Austin Film Festival
GG Hawkins' Micro-Budget Filmmaking Newsletter: @LostinGraceland on Instagram

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YouTube: No Film School on YouTube
Instagram: No Film School on Instagram

Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com

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Ryan Bethea

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