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
https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk
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

In this episode, ZB Siwek sits down with indie filmmaker Alex Srednoselac, the creator of Cashing Out, to unpack the real-world process of self-distributing a low-budget feature film in today’s shifting landscape.

From Amazon Prime to Tubi, from theatrical runs to Blu-ray sales, Alex shares exactly how he got his film in front of audiences and how he nearly recouped his full $16,000 budget. He opens up about navigating predatory distributors, the role of Filmhub, lessons learned about marketing and retention, and the power of being your film’s biggest cheerleader.

We also dive deep into:

• His grassroots marketing strategies using Facebook and YouTube
• Why AVOD success depends on watch time, not just traffic
• How to handle negative reviews and stay resilient
• The evolving role of personal branding and creator visibility
• Practical lessons for filmmakers choosing between Vimeo, Tubi, YouTube, and distributors like Indie Rights

Whether you're planning your first feature or strategizing your film’s release, this episode is a goldmine of candid, actionable advice from someone who's been through the trenches and is still promoting his film five years later.

Learn more about Alex and watch his film Cashing Out here:

https://linktr.ee/awsfilms

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

Eric Parkinson is a seasoned film executive, producer, and distribution expert with over 30 years in the industry. He has worked on the successful release of 1500 films including major titles such as Terminator, Platoon and Highlander. Eric’s expertise spans film production, financing, sales, and distribution, making him a key resource for independent filmmakers. In this episode, Eric shares essential strategies and techniques for creating a profitable film package, helping filmmakers secure financing and ensure commercial success in today’s competitive market.

Learn more about Hannover House:

https://hannoverhouse.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 Jeff Deverett will discuss exactly who film private investors are, how to find them, approach them and pitch them. After working in film distribution for many years Jeff moved to producing where he has successfully secured funding for 9 feature films and has guided numerous filmmakers through the complexities of financing and distribution. This episode tackles a very challenging part of filmmaking but Jeff has som incredible insights to demystify this topic.

Learn More About Jeff Deverett:
https://www.deverettmedia.com/

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

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, Michael Madison and Linda Nelson, founders of the distribution company Indie Rights, will demystify the process of securing a great distribution deal. They’ll cover how to find the right distributor, key red flags to watch for when signing a deal, and what to expect from a distributor relationship in 2025. Whether you're distributing your first feature or have been burned by bad deals in the past, this episode is packed with crucial insights for you!

Get in touch with Indie Rights:
https://www.indierights.com/

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

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, Jonny Tull, founder of Tull Stories, shares his wealth of experience in film distribution and exhibition, offering invaluable insights for indie filmmakers. We dive into the critical question of whether to release a film online or pursue a limited cinema release, with Jonny explaining the benefits of taking the film to audiences in cinemas.

Jonny discusses the importance of identifying the right audience for your film and how understanding audience needs can shape the release strategy. He also touches on his experience as a programmer and head of marketing within independent cinema, offering a unique perspective on how indie filmmakers can successfully navigate the exhibition landscape.

Key topics covered:

• The pros and cons of cinema releases for indie filmmakers on a budget.
• How to identify and reach the right audiences for your film.
• The role of marketing and programming in the success of a film's theatrical release.
• The evolving landscape of film exhibition and how filmmakers can adapt.

Whether you're just starting out or have a few films under your belt, this episode will provide essential guidance on making smart distribution choices for your indie film.

Get in touch with Jonny Tull:

http://tullstories.co.uk/

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 Film Creator, VC Partner, and New Forest founder Simon David Miller to explore one of the most important questions facing filmmakers today:

How will AI reshape the film industry and what does that mean for creators, jobs, ethics, and storytelling?

Simon shares his unique perspective from a career spanning investment banking, music, startups, and film, including his work at EMI, Abbey Road, and now New Forest an AI-driven film company focused on human-led storytelling.

This is a deep, honest conversation about:

How AI can radically reduce film production costs
Why human authorship still matters (artistically, ethically, and commercially)
The real job risks facing filmmakers—and how to future-proof your career
AI audience simulation and testing content before release
The collision between traditional film, AI filmmaking, and the creator economy
Hyper-personalised content, truth, and the risk of infinite media
Whether AI filmmaking is “lazy” or actually harder than traditional production
Hybrid filmmaking: combining real actors with AI to cut costs
Why distribution power is shifting to YouTube, TikTok, and direct audiences
What skills filmmakers should be learning right now to stay relevant
Simon also breaks down practical AI workflows filmmakers can experiment with today covering writing, visuals, animation, VFX, and distribution—while stressing the importance of authenticity, responsibility, and audience connection.

If you’re a filmmaker worried about the future, curious about AI, or trying to build sustainable, profitable projects in a changing industry, this episode is essential listening

Learn more about Simon David Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simondavidmiller/
New Forest Film:
http://www.newforestfilm.com

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to AI in Filmmaking
03:17 The Role of AI in Film Production
05:54 Audience Simulation Technology
08:57 Job Security in the Age of AI
12:47 The Human Element in AI-Driven Content
13:51 AI as a Creative Tool
18:06 The Future of Human-Led Content
20:44 The Impact of AI Influencers
23:35 The Need for Regulation in AI
26:17 Hyper-Personalization and Truth in Content
29:57 The Future of Content Creation
36:55 The Desire for Authenticity in Content Creation
38:51 Wants vs. Needs: The Essence of Storytelling
42:00 Ethics in Storytelling and AI
48:16 Environmental Impact of AI in Filmmaking
55:22 Practical AI Tools for Filmmakers
01:00:51 Hybrid Filmmaking: Blending AI and Real Actors
01:07:06 Building a Personal Brand in the New Era

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

PR is one of the biggest levers indie filmmakers have to actually make money from their films – but most treat it as an afterthought. In this episode of Cut to the Deal, I sit down with veteran publicist Heather Atherton to break down exactly how to use PR, festivals, and creative stunts to get real exposure for your film (without a studio-sized budget).

We talk about when it does make sense to hire a PR pro vs DIY, how to think about your audience from the script stage, how to attach your film to causes and current events in a way that journalists care about, and the kind of assets you should be capturing on set long before release. Heather also shares some brilliant campaign examples – from building a movement around a film on homelessness to creative festival stunts that cost almost nothing but generate headlines and word-of-mouth for years.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

PR vs DIY – When it’s smarter to bring in a PR consultant vs handling outreach yourself

What PR actually does – Strategy, contacts, credibility, and why earned media still matters

Building a movement early – How the film No Address used nonprofits and a cause-based campaign to attract 1,500-plus partners and distributor interest

Niche instead of everyone who likes good films – Why you must define a specific audience, not anyone who likes movies

Headlines without big names – How to find a story, angle, or cause that makes your film newsworthy even without stars

Creative stunt marketing – Real examples (flash mobs at Sundance, festival-stage stunts, clever offline moments designed to go viral online)

Timing your release – Aligning films with events (Olympics, Halloween, real-world news) so the market actually cares when you launch

Theatrical traps and opportunities – When a limited cinema run helps PR… and when it just burns your budget

About Heather Atherton
Heather Atherton is a PR and media relations veteran with around 30 years’ experience. She spent over a decade working with an IMAX Corporation–owned theatre, helping re-launch Hollywood films in the IMAX format, and has spent the last decade working closely with indie filmmakers on festival, theatrical, and streaming releases. She served on the board of the Cordillera International Film Festival for seven years and has led campaigns for projects like No Address, using PR to build movements around cause-driven films from script through distribution.

Connect with Heather:
Website: athertonpr.com
Instagram: @athertonpr

00:00 - Introduction to PR in Filmmaking
04:04 - The Value of Hiring a PR Consultant
10:13 - Case Study: No Address Film Strategy
13:48 - Identifying Your Audience
20:43 - The Importance of Local Media
25:54 - Building Relationships with Journalists
29:12 - Creative Marketing Strategies for Indie Films
32:43 - Creative Marketing Strategies
35:12 - Leveraging Cause-Related Messaging
38:37 - Making Films Marketable from the Start
43:09 - The Importance of Timing in Film Releases
44:43 - Common Mistakes Filmmakers Make
49:05 - Effective Press Outreach Techniques
59:31 - Utilizing TV for Film Promotion

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 filmmaker Matthew Hope and distribution expert Jonathan share their journey of creating and distributing their latest film Empire of Lies. They discuss strategies for indie filmmakers to produce, market, and distribute profitable films on a limited budget, emphasising social media, theatrical release tactics, and the importance of compelling posters and titles. This is a must listen for any filmmaker looking to self-distribute and market their next indie feature film.

WATCH EMPIRE OF LIES:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0GN2Y6C9C/

Connect with Jonathan Sadler:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathansadler1968/

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

Derry Shillitto shares his journey of funding, producing, and distributing his indie film 'The Correction Unit'. He discusses funding sources, distribution strategies, marketing efforts, and lessons learned to help independent filmmakers succeed.

Watch The Correction Unit:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0DV46653V/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Connect with Derry Shillitto:
https://www.instagram.com/foyleriverfilms

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 conversation, ZB Siwek and Shelly Kratzer discuss the intricacies of theatrical distribution for independent filmmakers. They explore the motivations behind seeking theatrical releases, the types of films that benefit from this approach, and the strategies filmmakers can employ to successfully navigate the distribution landscape. Shelly shares insights on budgeting, marketing, and the importance of understanding audience engagement, while also addressing the current state and future of the cinema industry post-COVID.

Connect with Shelly:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelly-kratzer-6941657/
https://zionmarketinggroup.com/

Chapters
00:00 The Quest for Theatrical Distribution
03:08 Understanding Filmmaker Motivations
05:57 Who Should Consider Theatrical Distribution?
09:05 Exploring Theatrical Release Strategies
12:01 Budgeting for Theatrical Releases
14:54 Navigating the Distribution Process
18:06 Marketing Your Film to Audiences
21:01 Conversations with Theaters
26:32 Understanding Audience and Market Dynamics
30:31 Strategizing Film Releases by Geography
34:48 Navigating Theatrical Releases for Indie Filmmakers
38:09 Effective Marketing Strategies for Theatrical Releases
42:10 Current Trends in Theatrical Film Success
48:38 The Future of Theatrical Releases Post-COVID

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 conversation, Terry Winnan shares his unique journey from engineering to filmmaking, detailing how he transitioned into the film industry while still managing his engineering business. He discusses the challenges of funding and producing his feature film, which was developed from three short films, and the strategies he employed for distribution and marketing. Terry emphasizes the importance of understanding audience expectations and the impact of social media on film promotion. He also reflects on the lessons learned from viewer feedback and his plans for future projects.


Takeaways
Terry transitioned from engineering to filmmaking due to a passion for creative writing and video editing.
His feature film was funded by his engineering company, allowing him creative freedom.
Managing a film project is similar to running a business, which helped him navigate the filmmaking process.
The feature film was developed from three short films, creating a cohesive anthology.
Terry chose to bypass film festivals for his second and third films to expedite the release.
He opted for IndieRights as a distributor due to their favorable terms and support.
Quality control is crucial for film submission; proper file naming and formats are essential.
A strong marketing strategy, including a well-designed poster, can significantly impact viewer engagement.
Social media plays a vital role in promoting films; consistency in posting is key.
Viewer expectations can greatly influence reviews; positive feedback often comes from unexpected sources.

Watch Terry Winnan's Film: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt36914087/

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Filmmaking Journey
02:51 Transitioning from Engineering to Filmmaking
05:51 Funding and Producing the Feature Film
09:04 Creating a Film Anthology
12:02 Distribution Strategies and Film Festivals
15:13 Choosing the Right Distributor
18:01 Film Release Timeline and Quality Control
20:55 Marketing and Poster Design
23:56 Social Media Strategy and Engagement
27:05 Understanding Viewer Expectations and Reviews
29:58 Future Plans and Lessons Learned

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