Real Talk on Film Finance, Distribution, and Pre-Sales

This episode of the No Film School Podcast is a deep dive into the often opaque world of film finance, distribution, and foreign pre-sales. GG Hawkins hosts the episode and is joined by filmmakers Stephen Cedars and Benji Kleiman, as well as special guest Mike Chapman from Bluefinch Films. Together, they explore what it takes to get a film made and sold in today’s unpredictable global market. From debunking myths about foreign pre-sales to discussing how to attract investors and get your film noticed at festivals, this is an essential listen for indie filmmakers navigating the post-production and sales process.In this episode, we discuss:The harsh realities of the current acquisitions and distribution marketWhy understanding distribution from the beginning helps you fund your movieThe value (and limitations) of foreign pre-sales and cast attachmentsWhat sales agents look for in a pitch, and how to present a compelling deckWhy comps in pitch decks can be misleading or counterproductiveNavigating film festivals and markets like Cannes, Berlin, and Toronto effectivelyPractical tips for raising money without burning out or making costly mistakesGuests:Mike Chapman (Bluefinch Films)Stephen CedarsBenji KleimanSubscribe to the No Film School Podcast on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogleGet your question answered on the podcast by emailing podcast@nofilmschool.com Listen to more episodes of the No Film School podcast right here: This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by GG Hawkins.

May 30, 2025 - 13:25

Real Talk on Film Finance, Distribution, and Pre-Sales

This episode of the No Film School Podcast is a deep dive into the often opaque world of film finance, distribution, and foreign pre-sales. GG Hawkins hosts the episode and is joined by filmmakers Stephen Cedars and Benji Kleiman, as well as special guest Mike Chapman from Bluefinch Films.

Together, they explore what it takes to get a film made and sold in today’s unpredictable global market. From debunking myths about foreign pre-sales to discussing how to attract investors and get your film noticed at festivals, this is an essential listen for indie filmmakers navigating the post-production and sales process.

In this episode, we discuss:

The harsh realities of the current acquisitions and distribution market
Why understanding distribution from the beginning helps you fund your movie
The value (and limitations) of foreign pre-sales and cast attachments
What sales agents look for in a pitch, and how to present a compelling deck
Why comps in pitch decks can be misleading or counterproductive
Navigating film festivals and markets like Cannes, Berlin, and Toronto effectively
Practical tips for raising money without burning out or making costly mistakes

Guests:

Subscribe to the No Film School Podcast on:

Get your question answered on the podcast by emailing podcast@nofilmschool.com

Listen to more episodes of the No Film School podcast right here:

_{This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by GG Hawkins.}