Cut To The Deal: The Business of Film – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this conversation, Rosa Camero shares her extensive experience in film marketing, discussing the importance of effective marketing strategies for independent filmmakers. She emphasizes the need for filmmakers to start thinking about their audience early in the film development process and to create a solid marketing plan with clear goals. Rosa also highlights the significance of building an audience, utilizing AI tools for content creation, and the value of cinema releases versus streaming platforms. The discussion concludes with insights into promoting films post-release and the introduction of her AI tool, Ramiro AI, designed to assist filmmakers in their marketing efforts.

Learn more about Rosa Camero and Ramiro AI:
ramiro.ai
www.rosacamero.com

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
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https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

🎬 How Indie Filmmakers Can Profit Through Screenings

What if you could make real money from your film without relying on streamers that pay pennies per view?

In this episode, ZB Siwek (Cine Circle) sits down with Christie Marchese, founder & CEO of Kinema, to explore a revolutionary new way for filmmakers to distribute and monetize their work through hosted screenings, virtual events, and direct audience relationships.

We dive deep into:
🔥 How Kinema helps filmmakers license their films to screening hosts (schools, bars, nonprofits & more)
💰 Why social impact documentaries and niche films perform best and how others can still succeed
🎟️ How filmmakers can find and pitch potential hosts for their films
📊 Real case studies of films that earned $200K+ through Kinema
🚀 How the future of indie film is merging with the creator economy
🎯 Why every filmmaker needs a marketing & distribution budget from day one

Whether you’re a documentary filmmaker or producing a micro-budget horror feature, this episode will change the way you think about distribution and show you how to build a profitable, sustainable career releasing films on your own terms.

🔗 Learn more about Kinema: https://www.kinema.com

📧 Contact: films@kinema.com

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode, we dive into the world of film distribution with Joe Dain, CEO of Terror Films. Joe shares invaluable insights into self-distribution strategies, industry trends, and the challenges indie filmmakers face in getting their films seen by audiences. Learn how to navigate distribution pitfalls, maximize your film's profitability, and leverage platforms like AVOD to ensure long-term success. Whether you're new to filmmaking or a seasoned professional, this episode offers actionable advice to elevate your distribution game.

Learn More About Terror Films:
https://www.terrorfilms.net/

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode, we sit down with Marc Clebanoff, an award-winning filmmaker, producer, and sales agent, to explore the intricate world of film distribution. Marc shares insights on what makes a film financially viable in today's market, the importance of strategic budgeting, and how filmmakers can navigate challenges such as attaching talent, negotiating distribution deals, and adapting to the evolving landscape of AVOD and streaming platforms. From real-life success stories like Girl Lost to practical advice on avoiding distribution pitfalls, this episode is packed with actionable tips for indie filmmakers.

Marc also introduces his company, Odyssey Motion Pictures, and his educational platform, Indie Film Ins and Outs, designed to bridge the gap between the creative and business sides of filmmaking.

Resources Mentioned:

https://www.odysseymotionpictures.com/
https://indiefilminsandouts.com/

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode, we sit down with Ted Chalmers, founder of Summer Hill Entertainment, to dive into the world of film distribution. Ted shares invaluable insights into why filmmakers should work with distributors, how to choose the right one, and what to expect from the partnership.

We cover:

• The role of a distributor in helping filmmakers reach audiences worldwide.
• Key factors to consider when selecting a distribution partner.
• The strategies and processes Summer Hill Entertainment employs to support filmmakers in 2025.

Whether you're an indie filmmaker or curious about the inner workings of film distribution, this episode is packed with actionable advice and industry knowledge.

Learn more about Summer Hill Entertainment:
https://summerhillfilms.com/

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of indie filmmaking and self-distribution with Alrik Bursell, filmmaker and co-host of the Making Movies is Hard podcast. Alrik shares his journey, from creating his first short film Strange Thing to releasing his feature film The Alternate and building an engaged audience along the way.

We cover everything you need to know about self-distribution, including:

• Why self-distribution is becoming increasingly popular.
• Practical strategies to build an audience before your film is even shot.
• What indie filmmakers can realistically expect to earn from self-distribution.
• Organic and paid marketing tactics to boost your film's visibility.
• The role of PR in amplifying your film’s reach and how to collaborate effectively with PR teams.
• Common mistakes filmmakers make and how to avoid them.

Alrik also shares insider tips on working with platforms like Tubi, optimizing your metadata and posters for maximum impact, and choosing the right distribution path for your film.

Whether you’re a first-time filmmaker or an experienced producer looking to level up your distribution strategy, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you take control of your film’s release and connect directly with your audience.

📌 Mentioned in the Episode:

• The Alternate: Alrik’s latest feature film available on Tubi and Amazon Prime.
• Making Movies is Hard Podcast: Insights and tips for indie filmmakers.

🔗 Follow Alrik:
Making Movies is Hard Podcast:
https://www.makingmoviesishard.com/

Watch The Alternate:
https://tubitv.com/movies/702632/the-alternate
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11383050/

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode, Jerome Courshon, a renowned indie film distribution expert and founder of Lionheart Distribution, pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to succeed in today’s film distribution landscape. Jerome shares his journey from struggling to secure a deal for his first feature film to becoming a trusted educator and ethical distributor.

Discover what distributors are looking for in 2024, the key mistakes filmmakers make in their contracts, and how to avoid getting burned by bad deals. Jerome dives deep into actionable strategies, including:

• Creating high-quality posters and trailers to attract distributors.
• Understanding how to leverage genres, pacing, and cast to maximize marketability.
• The importance of negotiating fair distribution contracts, including term lengths and expense caps.
• The current realities of streaming platforms like Amazon and Tubi, and where filmmakers can realistically make money.

Whether you’re an indie filmmaker navigating the distribution maze or a seasoned creator looking for fresh insights, this episode is packed with practical advice, real-world examples, and tips to help you protect your work and thrive in the film industry.

Connect with Jerome Courshon:
https://lionheart.la/

Subscribe to our channel to get more invaluable insights from industry experts and elevate your filmmaking career!

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode, ZB Siwek sits down with producer and sales agent Greg Bekkers to dive deep into the world of equity crowdfunding for films. Greg shares his hands-on experience running multiple successful campaigns—raising over $200K on platforms like Wefunder and breaks down exactly what it takes for independent filmmakers to stand out, attract investors, and actually close deals.

We cover:

• Greg’s journey from managing actors to producing and film sales 
• The genres and strategies distributors are backing right now (and which ones they’re avoiding)
• How equity crowdfunding really works - legal steps, platforms, timelines, and investor expectations
• The importance of lead investors and how to leverage them for trust and momentum
• Outreach strategies: LinkedIn, cold emails, Zoom calls, and the art of building relationships
• Why filmmakers need to embrace marketing as part of the creative process
• Greg’s honest take on mistakes, lessons learned, and why perseverance + community are essential
• Whether you’re planning your first raise or looking to improve your next campaign, this conversation gives you practical, battle-tested insights to make your film fundable and profitable.

Greg Bekkers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregbekkers/

📌 Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Filmmaking and Funding Strategies
05:32 – The Importance of Sales and in Filmmaking
15:47 – Navigating the Landscape of Film Genres and Market Trends
21:58 – Setting Up an Equity Crowdfunding Campaign
35:55 – Lessons Learned from Crowdfunding Campaigns
42:17 – Building Your Brand in Filmmaking
48:28 – Effective Messaging for Investor Outreach
57:20 – Understanding Investor Calls
01:01:15 – The Role of Lead Investors
01:06:02 – Marketing Strategies for Fundraising
01:10:14 – The Importance of Pre-Campaign Outreach
01:17:17 – Navigating the Crowdfunding Landscape

🎧 Subscribe to Cut to the Deal for more conversations with top industry experts on funding, distributing, and marketing independent films.

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode of Cut to the Deal, ZB Siwek speaks with Daren Smith (indie film producer and founder of Craftsman Films) about how filmmakers can create profitable, sustainable careers in today’s industry.

Daren shares insights from his book Blockbuster and his experience producing indie films, running a production company, and now building a $10M film fund. The conversation dives into the mindset, strategies, and systems filmmakers need if they want to move beyond passion projects and into long-term, profitable filmmaking.

What You’ll Learn:
Why most indie films fail financially—and how to flip the odds
The shift from creative mindset to business mindset
Subscription cycling & how audiences really consume content
How to define success (profit vs. impact vs. portfolio building)
The Domino Principle for career momentum
Demand-side vs supply-side selling for filmmakers
Why short films can stall your career if used incorrectly
How to align with investors and audiences who overvalue what you do
Building irresistible offers for both investors and fans
Creating systems & flywheels to grow visibility without burnout
Realistic expectations around distribution, box office, and profitability
How to build your brand as a filmmaker and expand your impact

🎬 About Daren Smith
Daren is an indie film producer, founder of Craftsman Films, and author of Blockbuster. His mission is to build a resilient, profitable ecosystem for independent filmmakers, starting with his own $10M film fund. 
Learn more at craftsmanfilms.co

🎙️ About Cut to the Deal
Hosted by ZB Siwek, Cut to the Deal explores the business side of filmmaking from funding and financing to marketing and distribution.

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

In this episode, I sit down with Emily Best, founder & CEO of Seed&Spark, filmmaker, and fierce advocate for creator sustainability, to ask the BIG question:

👉 Why can't most filmmakers consistently fund, distribute, and profit from their films?

We dive deep into:

• The harsh realities of building a sustainable filmmaking career
• Why most indie films aren’t actually commercial (and why that’s okay)
• The key mindset shift most filmmakers need to make
• How to find and build an audience that will support your work
• Real examples of crowdfunding rewards that went viral
• The future of distribution and how to retain creative and financial control
• A brutally honest take on equity crowdfunding (and when you should avoid it)
• How to approach AI in filmmaking ethically and strategically

Timestamps:
00:00 - The Challenge of Sustainable Filmmaking
02:05 - Understanding Funding Issues in Filmmaking
10:23 - Identifying and Engaging Your Audience
14:09 - Balancing Creativity and Commercial Success
18:02 - The Role of Crowdfunding in Filmmaking
19:32 - Innovative Crowdfunding Strategies and Rewards
33:44 - Innovative Crowdfunding Strategies
38:06 - Building Community and Audience Engagement
41:28 - The Pursuit of Excellence in Filmmaking
42:31 - Navigating Distribution Challenges
49:52 - Understanding Equity Crowdfunding
54:16 - The Impact of AI on Filmmaking

Whether you’re a first-time filmmaker or an experienced producer, this episode is packed with practical insights, hard truths, and thoughtful inspiration for anyone serious about thriving in the film industry.

🔗 Mentioned Resources:
https://seedandspark.com/
https://distributionplaybook.com/
https://www.seedandspark.com/crowdfunding

Connect with ZB Siwek:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/

Learn More About Cine Circle:
https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/

Explore our live in person and virtual events:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790

Follow us on social!
https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos
https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
https://x.com/cinecircle_uk