How to get your Debut Feature Film into Cinemas
With Liam Calvert
Getting a first feature film into cinemas can seem impossible, but filmmaker Liam Calvert made it happen. In this episode of The Honest Filmmaker Podcast, Liam shares how he took A Night Like This from an idea to the big screen. He breaks down funding, casting, distribution, and the lessons he learned along the way in How to get your debut feature film into cinemas.
From University to Feature Filmmaking
Liam didn’t wait for permission—he jumped straight into making his debut feature after university. He explains how he developed A Night Like This, how he pitched it, and what it took to get the film off the ground.
Funding & Industry Support
Finding money for an indie film is always a challenge. Liam shares how he secured funding and how Southampton’s City Eye, a film charity, played a key role in supporting the production. He also talks about the value of work experience and how BFI Flare helped open doors.
Film Festivals & Distribution
Liam reflects on his festival experience, the biggest lessons from shooting his first feature, and the challenges of casting. Most importantly, he shares how he landed sales and distribution, making sure A Night Like This reached audiences.
Advice for First-Time Filmmakers
Every filmmaker has moments of doubt. Liam shares what he wishes he had known before starting, the small miracles that kept the project alive, and his best advice for first-time feature filmmakers. He also reveals which film he’d love to reboot or remake and the motto that keeps him going.
How to get your Debut Feature Film into Cinemas
If you’re an aspiring filmmaker looking to get your first film into cinemas, this episode is packed with real-world advice and inspiration. Don’t miss it!
Find out more about A Night Like This.
Find out more about City Eye
Want to find out more about working on your first film check out these episodes;
How to make a Micro Budget Action film with James Couche
How to get your Indie Feature onto Apple TV with
