by Dan Mccormack

Created on: May 16, 2008

I actually found financing for a first movie and not much of what these other articles say is applicable to the first-time director. If you have good income and/or good credit and can get $50,000 in credit card debt, you can shoot a $50,000 movie and hope it finds distribution. Otherwise, there are several considerations before you find the first dime. First things first: you need a completed script, from which you create a shooting schedule. That will tell you how many days you need cast, crew and equipment. That also tells you how many meals you need to provide, housing, etc. Once you know how much you need, then you can begin looking for funding.

A first-time filmmaker does not have a track record so the best chance to establish credibility is with the script. This is the trickiest part because most writers fall in love with their own creations. They believe the script is perfect as is. My recommendation is finding a professional reader to give you what's known as coverage. Not your friends, not your family, a pro. There are several with good credentials who will give good feedback. Fees range from $150-1000. Warning: they will give you honest opinions. No sugar-coating, no diplomacy. Be prepared to see the flaws in your perfect creation.

Once the script is polished, you may choose to submit it to a competition. Having an award-winning script can give your project instant visibility. The most respected competition is the Nicholl Fellowship (sponsored by the Oscars.) Just making it to the semi-finals will attract the interest of literary agents and can be included in your presentation to investors.

Unless you have wealthy friends and family who are willing to subsidize your dream, you need to convince investors that you are capable of making a profitable film. Having a good script with a great idea is not enough; they want to know why you are qualified to deliver the finished product. Some people choose to make a short film, 5-15 minutes, to demonstrate their ability to make a film.

Finding an experienced Director of Photography is important to the finished product. Making a decision regarding film vs. tape, which camera, etc. is important in determining your budget for camera. This can change the budget significantly.

You also need an entertainment attorney to set up the investment entity (an LLC or a partnership). Then you prepare an investment packet and go to work.

Once you secure financing, your work is almost done. Now all you need to do is cast all the roles, hire the crew, rent the equipment and shoot all the footage. Good luck.

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