Why listen
Rejection from festivals and distributors is normal, but your film still has an audience waiting for it.
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In this episode
- Why gatekeepers like festivals and streamers are not the finish line
- How to handle rejection from distributors without losing momentum
- What it means to market directly to the people who want your film
- How to build your own path to viewers without relying on platforms
About this episode
In this episode, Jeff Deverett reminds indie filmmakers that the most important part of filmmaking isn’t the festivals, streamers, or distributors — it’s the audience. He talks honestly about how rejection is a normal part of the business, whether it’s from distributors ghosting your emails or festivals passing on your film. But none of that means your film doesn’t have value. What really matters is getting it in front of people who will watch and enjoy it.Jeff shares why filmmakers need to think beyond the traditional gatekeepers and learn how to market directly to their audience. He explains how platforms don’t actually “own” viewers — and how filmmakers can still build their own path to connect with fans. This episode is a practical, encouraging look at taking control of your film’s destiny and finding the people who truly want to see your work.
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About Indie Filmmaking: Truth & Reality
Film school taught you how to make a movie—this show teaches you how to get it financed and distributed. In bite-sized 30-minute episodes, filmmaker and distribution expert Jeff Deverett gives you the real-world advice film schools leave out.
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