Distribution Expenses aka Deliverables: Budget at least $20,000–$30,000 for deliverables, NOT INCLUDING prints.

Here’s something to note: When you see box office numbers thrown around, understand that these have absolutely no relevance to you or what revenue your film is capable making. Why? For two reasons: 1. Box office numbers represent what the theater makes, not what the distributor or producer makes. Also, the revenue that does make it to the

Look at who the audience is for your film. Is it sci-fi geeks or horror fans? Do you have a documentary with a social cause? Where do these people hang out online? Which blogs, forums, Facebook groups? Find out where they congregate (both online and offline), mingle, connect, and interact with them there with the ultimate goal of driving them back

“marketing hook”

chances of getting distribution after their film is completed.

• Marketing Budget: Set aside 25 to 50 percent of your production marketing budget for distribution and more (up to 100 percent) if you’re planning a theatrical self-release. For example, a film budgeted at $100,000 would need an additional $25,000–$50,000 for a marketing budget, or up to an additional $100,000 if planning to do a theatrical

One of the best investments you can make during preproduction of your film is in casting.

I pride myself on being totally realistic when it comes to projecting revenue for

A: Wait—you mean there’s something other than cast and genre that buyers are looking for? Seriously, those two things ARE the package.