Please make the film!

Here’s the deal: getting a film made, no matter the length, is one of the most challenging yet rewarding things you’ll probably ever have to do. The journey becomes even more daunting when you're working with a limited or non-existent budget. But here's the silver lining: it really is possible.

If you’re anything like me, you probably get a serious buzz of excitement when you finally reach “THE END.” on your script. Suddenly, you can see it all—there you are on set, surrounded by an excited crew and cast, bringing your story to life.

But let’s be real—getting from that final page of your script to actually being on set is a whole different scenario. The road ahead is full of challenges, from finding the right people to work with to figuring out how to stretch every cent (if you even have any) to make it all happen. But don’t let that scare you off.

I’ve come to learn that the key to success, especially when working with little to no budget, is creativity and resourcefulness. You don’t need a million rands to tell a compelling story; what you need is determination, a solid plan, and the ability to think outside the box.

Let’s break it down into some actionable steps to help you get from script to screen resourcefully and without the financial burden.

1. Start with What You Have

Look around—what resources do you already have access to? Maybe you have a friend with a great camera, or you know someone who owns a unique location that would be perfect for your film. Start by making a list of everything you can use for free or at a low cost. You’d be surprised how much you already have at your disposal.

2. Be willing to adapt

As writers, it's natural to feel a deep connection to our work—we pour our hearts into it. However, being open to critique and feedback doesn't mean you can't defend your creative choices. In fact, feedback provides a valuable opportunity to step outside the bubble you've created while spending days or even months crafting your story. It helps you see your work from fresh perspectives/ with fresh eyes.

Now, this becomes especially crucial when making a film on a tight budget. The reality is, you'll need to make tough decisions and kill some of your darlings. That perfect drone shot? It might have to go if it exceeds your budget. That ideal actor with an impressive portfolio? You may need to walk away if their fee is beyond your reach and non-negotiable.

In these moments, flexibility becomes your greatest asset. When resources are limited, creativity thrives within constraints. You’ll need to find inventive ways to achieve your vision without compromising the story's essence. Maybe that drone shot can be replaced with a simpler, yet equally powerful, still-camera angle that adds a unique touch to your film.

3. Assemble Your Dream Team

Finding the right people to work with is very important. You want a crew and cast who are just as passionate about your project as you are. And while you may not be able to pay them a Netflix-standard salary, you can offer them something equally valuable: experience, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of something truly special. Reach out to film students, local actors, and other creatives who are eager to build their portfolios.

4. Plan, Plan, and Then Plan Some More

When you’re working on a tight budget, there’s little room for error. That’s why planning is everything. Create a detailed shot list, storyboard your scenes, and schedule your shoot days down to the minute. The more prepared you are, the smoother things will go—and the less money you’ll end up wasting on unexpected delays or mistakes.

5. Get Creative with Funding

No-budget filmmaking doesn’t always mean zero budget—it can also mean finding unconventional ways to fund your film. Crowdfunding platforms like BackaBuddy (which is going to require a lot of follow-through from your side) can be great places to start. You can also look into pre-production grants on filmfreeway, or even hosting local fundraisers- this example is a little bit outside the point of making films but I once hosted a fundraiser, selling my old clothes for as little as R20 outside my complex to raise money for my T-shirt business at the time and it actually worked. Every little bit helps, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box.

6. Get good at asking for what you need

Sometimes the crowdfunding platforms don’t help or maybe you want to avoid the delays that often come with them. In these cases, moving forward with your film will depend on your willingness to ask for help. Reach out to friends, family, or your community—many are eager to contribute in non-monetary ways, like offering locations, equipment, or their skills. Asking for help shows your passion and commitment. By tapping into your network and embracing collaboration, you can still bring your film to life without a budget

7. Embrace the Limitations

Sometimes, having constraints can actually be a blessing in disguise. When you’re forced to work within certain limits, it pushes you to be more innovative and resourceful. Embrace the challenges as opportunities to think differently and to create something truly unique.

For example, let’s say you don’t have access to a fancy lighting equipment set or expensive set design. Instead of getting discouraged, use what you have around you. Maybe there’s a local shop that’s willing to let you film during off-hours, or perhaps your own living room can be transformed into the perfect setting with a little rearranging and the strategic use of natural lighting.

8. Just Start Shooting

The biggest mistake you can make is waiting until everything is perfect before you start filming. Newsflash: It’s never going to be perfect! So, don’t get stuck in the planning phase forever. Take the leap and start shooting. Even if it’s not exactly how you envisioned it, you’ll learn so much by actually doing it—and that’s invaluable.

Look, I understand how discouraging it can feel when you're confronted with a long list of obstacles before you’ve even started making your film. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but with enough grit and a refusal to take 'no' for an answer, you can overcome those challenges. Let your passion be your driving force. Talk to people about your vision and make them understand the impact you're aiming to create. When you communicate your story with heart, you’ll naturally attract the right people who are willing to help you along the way. In the end, it’s that passion and persistence that will bring your film to life, no matter the budget.

You got this!

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