There's a moment every independent filmmaker faces. You're staring at your script, or your rough cut, or your pitch deck... and you feel completely alone. The gap between where you are and where you want to be feels impossibly wide.
I remember that feeling vividly. Back in 2009, I had my first script and big dreams of producing it. What I didn't have was any idea how to actually make it happen.
Fast forward to today - I've produced four theatrical features, multiple documentaries, four seasons of television, and hundreds of commercial projects. But more importantly, I've mapped the territory between "aspiring filmmaker" and "working producer."
The Missing Piece Isn't What You Think
Here's what I've learned: The difference between filmmakers who get their projects made and those who don't isn't talent. It's not connections. It's not even money.
It's mindset - specifically, the clarity, confidence, and resilience to keep moving forward when everything feels uncertain.
Technical knowledge and industry strategies matter, of course. But I've seen countless talented filmmakers with solid plans still get stuck. Meanwhile, others with less experience but unwavering determination find ways to get their films made.
That's why I host these monthly live calls. They're not about teaching some magic "system" - they're about building the mental foundation you need to succeed, while connecting with others on the same journey. They're your chance to:
- Get specific answers about your current challenges from someone who's actively producing
- Connect with other serious filmmakers and potential collaborators
- See exactly what's working right now in independent film financing
- Walk away with concrete next steps for your project
Join Us For The Next Call
Next Live Call: April 16th, 2025 at 1pm Mountain Time
Your first call is completely free. Come see for yourself how valuable these conversations are.
After your first call, you can become a member of Craftsman Films to get:
- Access to all future monthly live calls
- Complete archive of past call recordings
- Written transcripts and resource links
- A complimentary copy of my book, BLOCKBUSTER
- Additional benefits based on membership tier
The path to making your films doesn't have to be a lonely one. Let's figure it out together.
• All future monthly live calls
• Complete archive of past call recordings
• Written transcripts for quick reference
• A complimentary copy of my book, Blockbuster
• More, depending on which membership tier you choose
BECOME A MEMBER OF CRAFTSMAN FILMS
Paid members can access recordings, links, and AI summaries of previous calls. To access these you'll need to sign up for a paid membership and sign into this site.
Live Call Recordings
Daren Smith
Daren Smith
Daren Smith
Daren Smith