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In this episode, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman dig into the behind-the-scenes business of micro-budget filmmaking. They tackle a fan-submitted Ask No Film School question about run-and-gun filmmaking risks, E&O insurance, and securing distribution when shooting without proper permits. Then, GG interviews writer/director Anna Baumgarten and producer Danny Mooney, the creative duo behind the indie feature Disfluency, a powerful micro-budget drama executive produced by Jim Cummings. The episode offers a treasure trove of insights into how to bring a short film to life as a feature, fundraise strategically, and navigate distribution on your own terms.
In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and guests discuss...
The real risks of guerrilla filmmaking and when E&O insurance matters
How micro-budget filmmakers should approach risk management and legal protections
Why shooting permits—even if they're free—can save you massive headaches later
How Anna and Danny turned the short Disfluency into a feature with no initial investors
Why having a “moving train” production plan helps raise money faster
The importance of audience-building and crowdfunding in early development
How Jim Cummings and the Short to Feature Lab helped launch Disfluency
Navigating distribution and negotiating for your film's future
Memorable Quotes:
"You need to kind of think about: How much did your movie cost? What kind of lawsuits can come in? Does it work for you?" – 08:09
"Motivation does not create action. Action creates motivation." – 41:44
"You have to be building the plane and flying it at the same time." – 46:50
"Make something you love, because you're going to be working on this all the way through the end." – 01:01:03
Guests:
Anna Baumgarten
Danny Mooney
Resources:
More Jim Cummings on No Film School
Showtimes For I Really Love My Husband w/ In-Person Q&A
‘I Really Love My Husband’ on Instagram
Where to Watch Disfluency
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📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com
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