Indie filmmaking is a beautiful thing that produces someone the best cinema in our generation, but why choose that instead of going through a film studio? Indie is short for independent, which would elude to a film being made without any outside support. Indie films have been around for many years, we must understand how many opportunities are given to directors and actors throughout the processes of filming independently. These films are being created without the backing of a large studio and without the large budget that a huge movie would have. These independent films are constructed by the most passionate individuals who want to bring their visions to life no matter the challenges. Today, we will be discussing why a filmmaker would choose this process over a major film studio and why it is so important to keep this style of filmmaking alive.Â
To begin, indie filmmaking is a wonderful way to present artistic expression, with every aspect of it being in the filmmaker's control. Without having to answer to a studio, these directors are allowed to let the traditional conventions of storytelling go and make something completely singular to itself. When a director finds a story that is so unique and may tackle new subjects that are less mainstream than most, it comes at a great cost for the sake of fulfilling the art. These are the scripts that would be shut down by mainstream studios wanting to preserve an image that was set years in the past. The difference between the head honchos of filmmaking and indie filmmakers is the willingness to take a risk – to tell a story that will find its niche audience and feel like a breath of fresh air to the masses. A reason for choosing the more independent route is just that: they want to have a more character-driven narrative that will be able to connect more deeply to an audience. Of course, this form of filmmaking does come with some challenges.Â
A large challenge that an indie filmmaker will face is the issue of funding. When going through a studio, you are given a budget that is in the millions, this allows for no stress in funding the sets, costumes, and pay for the actors and crew. When filming independently, finding the budget would be through grants or some sort of crowdfunding for the project, maybe even personal savings. It can be time-consuming to start this process, but the experience is ever so rewarding. Another challenge that could arise would be timing with the crew and cast of the film. An indie film is reliant on the talented individuals brought on – those who are willing to work at a lower wage – to bring the story to the public. Because of this, indie films usually have the most creative, passionate and hard-working individuals involved in the process, yet because of the lower wages, it may be hard to find time between other jobs the individuals may have.Â
Despite the challenges that come with this form of filmmaking, it is one of the most rewarding processes in the business. Being given the opportunity to foster creative, innovative and passion-filled projects is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful aspects of filmmaking. Indie filmmakers are choosing this process over studios for freedom and the quality necessary for this work; they are working so hard to bring life to characters that may have been buried away without such courage. The independent film world is on the rise and proves that being driven and having an uninterrupted passion for this art form will only get you further in your career – the possibilities are endless, even without a studio.Â
Serin Enver
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