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How to Make a Feature Film for $10,000 with Sean & Taylor King
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This Week on the Podcast: Making Feature Films for Under $10K with Sean and Taylor King
On this episode, I sit down with father-son filmmaking duo Sean and Taylor King, who have been consistently creating feature films on micro-budgets of under $10,000. Since starting in 2015, they’ve developed a streamlined production process that allows them to quickly move from one project to the next — and they’re currently working on their 20th feature film.
In addition to films, they've also produced TV shows that are distributed on Tubi via Filmhub and Amazon via Video Direct.
We dive into how they’ve built such a prolific body of work, how they maintain momentum, and what it’s like working together as a father and son team in the indie film world.
If you're interested in making your first feature film, learning more about low-budget filmmaking, or exploring the family dynamics of creative collaboration, this episode is for you.
Find out more about Sean and Taylor: https://newzealandsonfilms.com
Marketing Matters: Posters, Titles, and Trailers
The Kings explain why your film’s poster and title are just as important as the movie itself. They use platforms like YouTube to test what visuals and names perform best—often before filming even starts. Strong artwork can attract attention, build intrigue, and boost your film’s streaming success.
Where to Release Your Film: Amazon, Tubi & More
Distribution doesn’t have to be a mystery. Sean and Taylor share their real-world experience using Filmhub and Amazon Video Direct to get their work on platforms like Tubi and Prime Video. They break down earnings, pricing strategies, and how to navigate the world of VOD as an indie creator.
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tips from the Trenches
From gear selection to casting choices, and even how they handle creative disagreements on set, this episode is loaded with advice. Whether you're starting your first film or looking to improve your DIY process, these lessons are must-hear. Sean and Taylor prove that with the right mindset, micro-budget films can reach big audiences.
Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r
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HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER
Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.
We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.
Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk
Chapters
1. Introduction to Sean and Taylor King (00:00:00)
2. Introducing the team (00:01:22)
3. How many films over how long? (00:03:23)
4. Making films under $10k (00:05:02)
5. Their most financially successful genre/story (00:06:02)
6. The power of a good poster and title (00:07:21)
7. Tips for good poster design (00:09:32)
8. Testing your artwork using YouTube (00:11:53)
9. The best 80s VHS artwork (00:13:32)
10. What do they shoot on and why? (00:15:05)
11. Advice for first time feature filmmakers (00:18:11)
12. How does the father/son dynamic work on set? (00:22:41)
13. Advice working with actors (00:26:23)
14. TV series - how does it compare to features? (00:29:03)
15. Distribution - Film Hub and Amazon Direct (00:30:23)
16. Prime and rental/streaming prices (00:32:30)
17. The tricky parts of working with Amazon - no release date (00:33:28)
18. Amazon pay per hour viewed on streaming - how much do filmmakers make? (00:34:27)
19. How much do they hope to make back on a $10k feature - release facts and figures (00:37:21)
20. Have they tried traditional sales and distribution? (00:39:13)
21. Marketing and promoting your movie (00:40:52)
22. Film festivals - is it worth it? (00:46:47)
23. Do Taylor and Sean have a motto? (00:48:31)
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