![]() Independent film productions are more free-form, following the direction and desire of the producers and their artistic vision, often sourcing staff, equipment, and money as they go along. Studio films are often formulaic and controlled by senior management from start to finish, and while the production needs vary from film to film, they always maintain some form of uniformity in operation, staffing, and expenses. This large contrast in monetary and distribution processes consequently leads to a variety of differences in production, artistic influence, and definitions of success. Different Motivations, Different Expectations Studio film budgets will also vary quite substantially, but their upper limits are astronomically higher, with some studio films working with predetermined budgets that can range up to half a billion dollars. Independent film budgets can range vastly, from tens of thousands dollars to tens of millions, and occasionally will even require fundraising to finish production and find distributors. While there is no specific dollar amount that separates an independent film budget from a studio film budget, spending range is another major factor that distinguishes these two film types. That’s why these films often dominate the film festival circuit (and why most festivals even exist in the first place) these filmmakers are showing off their product to distributors with the hope of it being purchased, and distributed. Sometimes, these more independent-focused distributors (A24, Neon, Blumhouse) will fund a project at the beginning, sometimes they purchase it halfway through or after it’s made, but the search for funds and distribution is a relentless necessity that characterizes most independent films. Independent films need to scrap and source for producers and distributors almost from day one. But an important consideration is that these films usually don’t have a guaranteed distribution network or production funding like the larger studios with their parent companies. While many independent films are made by individual filmmakers, many are still made by film studios, albeit smaller ones. These studio films are also funded and distributed by massive production companies that operate under the umbrella of these media conglomerates.ĭaniel Kaluuya in Get Out, independently produced by Blumhouse Productions Studio films on the other hand, are defined by their production through a studio owned by one of the “Big 5” media conglomerates (NBC/Comcast, Paramount, Disney, Warner Bros, Sony). ![]() The definition of what constitutes an independent production can be somewhat muddled, but the most defining trait of an independent film is that it is produced and distributed outside the “major” film studio system. But the differentiating factors that can more clearly distinguish the two revolve around the production and distribution processes, and the respective financial situations of each film type’s budget. For the audience, these differences can be evident in the types of stories told and the contrast in creative decisions made. a studio-supported film, the more clear cut differences usually lie behind the scenes. While there can be plenty of noticeable differences between the experience of watching an independent vs. Distinctions Between Independent Films and Studio Films At Salt Lake Film Society, we just believe that understanding and contextualizing the differences between independent films and studio films is a part of being a conscientious and engaged cinephile. This is not to say that one film type is inherently better than the other there will always be amazing films being made and incredible stories being told, whether independently or studio-supported. But we also exhibit and enjoy plenty of films that are created within the major studio system as well. Many of these films, from gripping foreign dramas to small-budget, local documentaries, can be classified as independent films. Salt Lake Film Society operates two independent theaters and we take a lot of pride in the films we show in Salt Lake City. You might have heard of “independent films” or “indie movies”, but understanding what actually qualifies as one, and why independent theaters focus on showing them is a bit more complicated. While there is an extensive range of stories and types of film in circulation, there are also some important distinctions regarding how films are made, funded, and distributed. The film industry as a whole releases a wide variety of movies each year.
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