The Indie Film Journey: Highlights from Truly Independent and Film Festivals

Hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith share their findings at NRB and ZIFF

On the latest episode of "Truly Independent," hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith delve into the dynamic world of indie filmmaking, sharing insights from their recent experiences at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Convention, the Zions Indie Film Fest (ZIFF), and the Oscars. They bring to light the thrill and challenges of indie film pitching and the triumphs of independent films at prestigious award shows.

Indie Film Pitching at NRB

Garrett recounts his enriching experience at the NRB Convention, a hub for faith-based broadcasting and film. As he navigated the event, Garrett participated in a "pitch-a-thon," engaging with various distributors eager to network with upcoming filmmakers. His key takeaway? Tailoring pitches to align with distributors' needs is crucial. Instead of pitching finished films inaccurately, Garrett underscores the importance of understanding the distributor's focus, thereby establishing meaningful connections and paving the way for future collaborations.

Community and Creativity at Ziff

Switching gears to Ziff, Daren highlights the vibrant indie film community that gathers annually at the festival. The focus this year was on the diverse and high-caliber documentaries and short films presented. An experimental audio-visual project called "Eternities," which uniquely incorporated blindfolded audiences, stood out for its creativity and execution. Daren's interactions at Ziff were not only about film appreciation but also about networking, discovering future collaborators, and nurturing long-term industry relationships.

The closing night at Zion’s Indie Film Fest was a true gathering place for filmmakers and film viewers.

Indie Film Triumphs at the Oscars

This year's Oscars were monumental for indie films, with creators from smaller studios like A24 and Neon receiving significant recognition. Sean Baker’s "Anora" emerged as a major winner, securing five Oscars and further solidifying the importance of independent voices in cinema. Daren and Garrett explore Baker's trajectory, emphasizing the importance of persistence and evolution in a filmmaker’s career. They celebrate the creativity and daring storytelling that indie films continue to bring to the forefront of the cinematic landscape.

The Path Forward for Indie Filmmakers

Reiterating the power of indie films, the hosts remind us of the necessity of networking at festivals and conventions, pointing out how invaluable these interactions are for expanding one's reach and influence in the film community. They stress the importance of the follow-up, turning initial pitches and contacts into fruitful relationships and opportunities. Finally, there is a nod to Alan Blomquist’s insightful breakdown of producer roles—is your role to give, get, or spend money? This framework can guide indie filmmakers on their journey, offering clarity in navigating the industry’s complexities.

Conclusion

The latest episode of "Truly Independent" captures the essence of the indie film journey—an ongoing process of creation, collaboration, and celebration. As Garrett and Daren prepare for upcoming projects and collaborations, we’re reminded of the endless opportunities that arise from persistence, creativity, and community. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or a cinematic enthusiast, the indie film world promises a space for new stories and voices to emerge, challenge, and inspire.

Truly Independent: NRB, ZIFF and the Oscars