The Honest Filmmaker

Hosted by Jim Eaves

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137

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-GB

About the show

REAL TALK FOR ASPIRING FILMMAKERS Are you wrapping up your film degree or contemplating a career shift into the creative industry? The Honest Filmmaker is your go-to resource for navigating the real-world challenges of micro-budget and indie filmmaking. Hosted by award-winning filmmaker Jim Eaves, the podcast delves into the nitty-gritty of independent film production. From securing funding and managing tight budgets to distribution strategies and building a sustainable career, this is unfiltered advice and practical tips from professionals who have been in your shoes. Whether you're a recent graduate, a career changer, or an indie filmmaker determined to make your mark, The Honest Filmmaker equips you with the tools, insights, and honest guidance to thrive in the world of independent cinema. http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

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June 16, 2026Episode 13740 min

AI, Copyright and the Future of Filmmaking with Jonathan Yunger

Send us Fan MailAI is rapidly changing filmmaking — but what are the real implications for artists, copyright and the future of creative work?This week, Jim sits down with Jonathan Yunger, Co-President of Millennium Media and Co-Founder & CEO of Arcana Labs. Jonathan has spent years producing major Hollywood films including titles in The Expendables and Has Fallen franchises, before stepping into the world of AI-powered filmmaking tools.In a conversation designed to ask the hard questions rather than avoid them, we discuss how AI is trained, the concerns many filmmakers have around copyright, what protections independent artists should expect, whether AI risks undermining creative experience, and how close Hollywood really is to convincing AI-generated films.We also talk about environmental concerns, misconceptions around AI, and where these tools may genuinely help filmmakers rather than replace them.Whether you’re excited by AI, sceptical of it, or somewhere in between, this episode aims to explore the questions seriously and hear the answers directly from someone building in the space.More about Arcana Labs AI: https://www.arcanalabs.ai Jonathan's IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2551411/?ref_=fn_t_1 #JonathanYunger #Filmmaking #AI #Hollywood #artificialintelligence #IndieFilm #Artists #Copyright #CreativeIndustry #AICheck 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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

June 9, 2026Episode 13623 min

From No Film School to a 5 Day Feature Film | Evan Marcewicz

Send us Fan MailWhat does it actually take to make a feature film on a micro budget?Filmmaker Evan Marcewicz joins the podcast to share how he went from skipping film school to shooting a feature film in just five days.We discuss financing an indie film, choosing the Sony FX6, the realities of filming in difficult locations like cars and the financial risks involved — including loans and maxed-out credit cards.Evan also breaks down one of the toughest stages of independent filmmaking: sales and distribution, why he's going directly to distributors and what he believes is the current state of micro budget cinema.If you’re thinking about making your first feature film, this episode is full of practical advice, money-saving tips and hard-earned lessons from the front lines of indie filmmaking.#Podcast #FilmmakingPodcast #IndependentFilm #MicroBudgetFilm #FeatureFilm #Filmmaker #SonyFX6 #MovieMaking #FilmDistribution #IndieFilmCheck 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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

June 2, 2026Episode 13532 min

Why AI Faces a Filmmaker Backlash - Micro Budget Horror and Film Financing with Daniel J. Pico

Send us Fan MailFilmmaker Daniel J. Pico joins the podcast to unpack the realities of making independent horror films on a micro budget.We discuss the pitch behind The Withering, why horror remains one of the strongest genres for indie creators, how film financing actually works behind the scenes and what is involved in getting projects funded.The conversation then turns to the growing role of AI in filmmaking, where Daniel shares why he believes many companies have misunderstood the creative community and why younger filmmakers could ultimately reject it.If you're interested in indie filmmaking, horror cinema, film finance, or the future of AI in movies, this episode is just for you.Watch the trailer for Daniels film THE WITHERING https://youtu.be/oDQtFVvkoGQ?si=HMQ0E8ifXsFKKyrB#Podcast #FilmmakingPodcast #IndependentFilm #MicroBudgetFilm #HorrorPodcast #FilmFinance #AIDebate #IndieFilmmaker #CreativeIndustry #DanielJPicoCheck 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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

May 26, 2026Episode 13425 min

Making a Micro Budget Horror Film: Black & White, Filmhub & Indie Film Survival | Zoe Carol & Daya Dodds

Send us Fan MailDirector Daya Dodds and actor/writer/producer Zoe Carroll join the podcast to discuss the making of Witches of God — a micro budget black and white horror feature created with extremely limited resources.In this conversation, we explore the realities of making independent films on low budgets, including production compromises, camera choices, film festival strategy, marketing through Meta advertising and distribution through Filmhub.Zoe also shares insights into balancing writing, acting and producing on the same project, while Daya reflects on lessons learned from the filmmaking process and what he’d do differently next time.We also discuss the wider state of indie filmmaking, streaming, audience building and the growing conversation around AI in film.Trailer for Witches of God:https://youtu.be/622071l24cg?si=Q-6Uu4vGgt1beMChIMDB for Witches of God: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14104376/ #FilmmakingPodcast #MicroBudgetFilm #IndieFilm #HorrorPodcast #FilmProduction #IndependentFilmmaker #LowBudgetFilm #Filmhub #BlackAndWhiteFilm #IndieHorror #MoviePodcast 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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

May 19, 2026Episode 13330 min

Can Micro Budget Films Still Work? Funding, Profit & Distribution

Send us Fan MailFilmmaker Jason Morris joins the podcast to discuss the realities of micro budget filmmaking in today’s industry. Including film funding, distribution, profitability and the changing landscape for independent filmmakers.From producing films at different budget levels to releasing projects through distributors and aggregators, Jason shares practical insight into what actually works, what filmmakers should avoid in contracts and why audience-building matters more than ever.We also discuss his $3,000 monster movie Space Rodent, the role of AI in film production, physical media and the lessons he wishes he knew when starting out.If you're making independent films — or planning your first feature — this episode is packed with advice.#Podcast #FilmmakingPodcast #MicroBudgetFilm #IndieFilm #FilmDistribution #IndependentFilmmaker #CreativeBusiness #FilmProduction #JasonMorris #MoviePodcastCheck 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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

May 12, 2026Episode 13232 min

Indie Film Distribution, Micro Budget Horror & Surviving Independent Filmmaking with Austin Galante

Send us Fan Mail#moviemaking #filmmaking #indiefilm #filmmakingpodcast #filmmaking #moviemaking #microbudget #indiefilm Filmmaker, actor and producer Austin Galante talks about the grind of making independent films in today’s market, from shooting music videos and working with major recording artists to directing feature-length horror films and navigating distribution deals.Austin shares the story behind Sanguine Teeth on a Driftless Road, including the budget realities, marketing challenges, sales reporting, subtitles, distributors and what happens after your movie is finally finished.The conversation also dives into why many indie filmmakers end up handling directing, producing, cinematography, editing and promotion themselves — and the lessons Austin learned from releasing films back to back.Austin’s background includes collaborations with Cee Lo Green, Rick Ross, Snoop Dogg, Sid Wilson, and Slimkid3, alongside his work directing films and music videos.Whether you're making your first feature or trying to understand the business side of indie cinema, this episode offers an honest look at what it takes to get a film made and released independently.Austin is currently developing his next feature film, “What Have We Won,” starring Robert LaSardo.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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

May 5, 2026Episode 13127 min

From YouTube Film School to Directing Indie Features & Series with Beasy Jones

Send us Fan Mail#moviemaking #filmmaking #indiefilm #filmmakingpodcast #filmmaking #moviemaking #microbudget #indiefilm In this episode of The Honest Filmmaker Podcast, director Beasy Jones joins us to unpack the realities of building a career in independent filmmaking, starting with nothing but self-taught skills and a drive to create.We explore how Beasy went from learning the craft online to directing both feature films and episodic series and what that transition actually looks like behind the scenes. From working with actors and shaping performances to managing tight schedules and limited budgets, this conversation is full of practical insights for filmmakers at every level.We also get into the business side of indie film , including how distribution works, what sales agents actually do and whether making a series is financially sustainable. Are you trying to figure out how to move from passion projects into professional filmmaking? Well there’s a lot here you can apply straight away.We cover:How Beasy Jones got into filmmaking without formal trainingTransitioning from DOP to Director (and avoiding common traps)Making films look cinematic on a microbudgetWorking with actors and building authentic performancesThe difference between directing a feature vs a TV seriesBudget realities and how to shoot fast without sacrificing qualityWhat really happens with film sales, distribution, and profitsMarketing your indie film and managing promotion costsWATCH THE TRAILER FOR PILLOW TALK 2https://youtu.be/FLjJojPFlS4?si=VNI9prOIDSFry3zUFollow Beasy on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/dirxbeasyjones/Beasy Jones link tree: https://linktr.ee/dirxbeasyjones?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnWt5AlBjlT7jPnBNZ_UXBIqd1rX3OMZsnyYN2D9gfDdV-cXLXm0aFoH7EwOQ_aem_-4xefKUJ02tVuz2aUq3rfwCheck 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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

April 28, 2026Episode 13032 min

Inside the Business of Indie Film: What ‘Cheat’ Taught Us About Distribution, Revenue & Reality

Send us Fan Mail#moviemaking #filmmaking #indiefilm #filmmakingpodcast #filmmaking #moviemaking #microbudget #indiefilm Filmmaker Nick Psinakis joins the podcast to discuss the journey behind his feature film Cheat and the realities of independent film distribution.From development and production through to release, Nick shares a transparent look at the financial side of filmmaking including budget, sales performance and the differences between traditional distribution and platforms like Filmhub.The conversation also explores marketing strategies, including the role of Meta advertising, audience targeting, and how revenue evolves over time across platforms like transactional VOD and streaming.This episode offers an honest and practical look at the balance between creative ambition and commercial reality in today’s indie film landscape.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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

April 21, 2026Episode 12932 min

Micro-Budget Action, Hong Kong Stunts & Filmmaking Reality – with Bruce Fontaine

Send us Fan Mail#moviemaking #filmmaking #indiefilmWhat separates convincing screen action from something that just feels fake?In this episode of The Honest Filmmaker Podcast, I’m joined by Bruce Fontaine, stunt performer, martial artist and filmmaker, to talk about the craft behind action filmmaking at the micro-budget level.Bruce shares insights from his experience working in Hong Kong, one of the most influential action film industries in the world and breaks down what made those films so impactful. We also explore how to direct fight scenes, work with actors who don’t have martial arts training and navigate the realities of producing and distributing independent films.From stunt work to sales strategy, this conversation covers both the creative and business sides of indie action filmmaking.About Bruce Fontaine:Bruce Fontaine is a stunt performer, martial artist and filmmaker known for his work in action cinema, including experience in Hong Kong’s film industry working closely with the likes of Jackie Chan. His career bridges physical performance and independent film production, with a focus on grounded, practical action.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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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

April 14, 2026Episode 12827 min

One Man, One Film: How Matt Simpson Made Disremembered Completely Solo

Send us Fan Mail#moviemaking #filmmaking #indiefilm #filmmakingpodcast #filmmaking #moviemaking #microbudget #indiefilm What happens when one person takes on every role in a film production?In this episode, I’m joined by Matt Simpson to talk about Disremembered, a project where he handled everything himself, from acting and directing to shooting and editing, without a crew.We get into the realities of making a film solo, from the technical hurdles to the creative mindset it takes to pull it off. Matt also shares insights on building a compelling concept, navigating the festival circuit and what he learned about genre, sales, and distribution along the way.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_rSupport the showFor regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletterhttps://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREERAre 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