MAKE IT hosts Chris Barkley and Nicholas Buggs sat down with filmmakers Aaron Irons and Josh Croft for an engaging discussion about their experiences at the Defy Film Festival, their creative projects, and the challenges of low-budget filmmaking. With candid insights, they shared their journey of creating unique and impactful films while emphasizing the importance of community, resourcefulness, and resilience.
The Magic of Music and "Sophomore Slumps"
Chris Barkley opened the podcast with a personal anecdote about his own singing days, humorously reflecting on how the Jackson Five unknowingly “covered” a song from his group. This segued into a discussion about the "sophomore slump" in music, where artists struggle to replicate the success of their first album. Aaron Irons and Chris explored this idea through the lens of Dave Matthews’ music, noting how some of his best work stemmed from personal struggles. This segment underscored the parallels between music and filmmaking like the pressure to succeed, the evolution of creative expression, and the impact of personal experiences on artistry.
Defy Film Festival: A Hub for Unique Storytelling
Aaron and Josh, long-time participants in the Defy Film Festival in Nashville, TN, described the event as a haven for unconventional and boundary-pushing films. Founded by Dicey and Billy Wildman, Defy operates as a nonprofit, supporting independent filmmakers and celebrating their craft. The duo highlighted the festival's eclectic lineup, which includes films like their project Chest. Its sold-out premiere at Defy was a testament to the support of the local community and the festival’s ability to connect filmmakers with like-minded creatives. The pair reflected on how networking opportunities at Defy helped them forge relationships with other industry professionals.
From "Chest" to "Jeffrey’s Hell": A Found Footage Adventure
Aaron introduced Jeffrey’s Hell, a sequel to Chest created in secret with a found footage style. The film follows Aaron’s character, a director attempting to create bonus features for Chest, only to be drawn into a deeper conspiracy. The unique approach and raw aesthetic of found footage complemented the film’s themes while highlighting the challenges and resourcefulness required in independent filmmaking. Shooting in caves presented both creative and logistical hurdles, but Aaron and Josh embraced the constraints as opportunities to enhance their storytelling. Their philosophy of “writing within budget” resonated as a practical and innovative approach for indie filmmakers.
The Resurgence of Found Footage Horror
The found footage genre has long captivated audiences with its immersive storytelling and raw authenticity. Aaron and Josh reflected on the loyal but sometimes critical fanbase of the genre. Despite its challenges, they see a resurgence of interest in found footage horror, providing an exciting opportunity for filmmakers to reimagine the format. Their emphasis on resourcefulness—creating compelling stories without multi-million-dollar budgets—demonstrated how limitations can spark creativity and innovation.
Monetizing Independent Films
Nick shifted the conversation toward monetization strategies for independent films. Aaron and Josh revealed their success with streaming platforms like Tubi, which has proven profitable for their projects. They acknowledged the challenges of earning revenue through streaming but emphasized the importance of community support in boosting visibility and engagement. The pair stressed that finishing a film, regardless of its budget or scope, is a significant accomplishment. They encouraged aspiring filmmakers to focus on completing their projects and leveraging platforms that champion indie cinema.
The Role of Community in Independent Filmmaking
Throughout the episode, Aaron and Josh highlighted the importance of fostering a supportive filmmaking community. They shared experiences of receiving constructive feedback and collaborating with peers, emphasizing the need for kindness and encouragement in an often-competitive industry. The group also discussed the challenges of navigating criticism, particularly from platforms like Letterboxd. While reviews can be valuable, they cautioned against harsh judgments that might discourage filmmakers, especially those working with limited resources.
Polls and Audience Engagement: Horror and Tim Burton’s Legacy
Intern Sam added an interactive element to the episode with two audience polls. The first asked listeners to vote for the best horror director of all time, with John Carpenter and George Romero tying for the top spot, followed by Wes Craven. The guests reflected on their favorite horror directors, celebrating the unique voices that have shaped the genre. The second poll focused on Tim Burton’s best movie, with Edward Scissorhands taking the lead, followed by Batman. The discussion delved into Burton’s distinctive visual style and its lasting impact on audiences.
Resourcefulness and Resilience: Lessons in Low-Budget Filmmaking
As the episode neared its conclusion, the guests and hosts returned to a recurring theme: the importance of resourcefulness in filmmaking. Aaron and Josh emphasized that low-budget filmmaking requires meticulous planning, adaptability, and a focus on storytelling. They encouraged filmmakers to write scripts that align with their available resources, ensuring feasibility without compromising creativity. Their stories of shooting Chest and Jeffrey’s Hell illustrated how constraints can lead to innovative solutions, resulting in films that resonate with audiences despite their modest budgets.
Final Reflections and Future Plans
Chris Barkley closed the episode with a heartfelt appreciation for Aaron and Josh’s insights and dedication to their craft. The guests shared their aspirations for gaining more visibility for their films and expanding their reach within the found footage and horror genres. Their plans include leveraging streaming platforms like Tubi and exploring new projects that continue to push creative boundaries while staying true to their roots in low-budget filmmaking.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
Community Matters: Festivals like Defy create invaluable opportunities for filmmakers to connect, learn, and grow together.
Budget Constraints Spark Creativity: Writing within your means and embracing limitations can lead to innovative storytelling.
Support Indie Filmmakers: Platforms like Tubi offer a space for independent creators to share their work and reach wider audiences.
Constructive Criticism Over Harsh Judgments: A supportive community fosters growth and resilience among filmmakers.
The Power of Found Footage: The genre’s resurgence presents exciting possibilities for filmmakers to explore immersive and authentic storytelling.
Celebrating Indie Filmmaking
The MAKE IT podcast continues to serve as a beacon for independent filmmakers, offering insights, encouragement, and a platform for sharing experiences. This episode highlighted the creativity and determination of Aaron Irons and Josh Croft, whose work exemplifies the potential of low-budget filmmaking to create meaningful, impactful stories.
As Aaron and Josh’s journey shows, filmmaking is as much about community and resourcefulness as it is about vision and talent. By supporting indie creators and engaging with their stories, audiences play an essential role in sustaining and advancing the vibrant world of independent cinema.
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