Breaking into Indie Film Directing with William Kaufman

William Kaufman’s journey into directing feature films began with determination, resourcefulness, and a love for storytelling. In this episode, he shares how he first broke into the industry, the challenges of shooting on film in the early days, and the pivotal moments that helped him convince others to believe in his vision in ‘Breaking into Indie Film Directing’.

Building Trust and Strong Creative Teams

One of the biggest lessons Will highlights is the importance of collaboration. From assembling a reliable crew to building long-term professional relationships, he explains why having the right team behind you is critical for success. He also reflects on how his pitching process has evolved as his career has grown.

Navigating the Business Side of Filmmaking

Beyond creativity, Will stresses that aspiring directors must understand the business side of the industry. He talks about choosing the right projects, building a sustainable network, and balancing personal passion with commercial opportunities, essential advice for anyone hoping to turn indie directing into a career.

Directing Action and Sci-Fi on a Budget

Known for his action-packed films, Will discusses how he approaches crafting sequences that balance spectacle with story. He opens up about the hardest scene he’s ever directed, the unique challenges of his first monster movie Osiris, and the excitement of casting screen legend Linda Hamilton in the project.

Breaking into Indie Film Directing

Looking back, Will shares what he would do differently if he were starting again today. He offers a candid motto that guides his work and gives practical advice for new directors trying to break into the industry. His reflections serve as both inspiration and a roadmap for filmmakers ready to take their first big step.

Check out Williams IMDB Page

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Interested in more advice on being a working director in Indie Film? Check out Jims chat with Josh Caldwell in How to turn your micro budget movie into a directing career.