Welcome to Off The Lot!

Episode 01: Be Your Own Gatekeeper

In the debut episode, your hosts Ken Kabatoff and Anthony Epp introduce you to Off the Lot, a podcast diving into the wild world of indie filmmaking. Whether you’re an industry pro, a budding filmmaker, or just curious about how movies come together, this podcast is your backstage pass.

Ken and Anthony share their journeys into filmmaking, the lessons they’ve learned, and why they believe now is the perfect time to take on independent projects. They discuss how to start your own film, maximize limited resources, and build a filmmaking community to help you succeed.

Plus, they highlight two incredible crowdfunding campaigns that caught their eye this week!

Email us your questions or topic suggestions: podcast.offthelot@gmail.com

Follow us on social media!

Off The Lot:
• Email: podcast.offthelot@gmail.com
• Instagram: @offthelotpod
• Threads: @offthelotpod
• Blue Sky: @offthelot.bsky.social
• TikTok: @offthelotpod

Ken Kabatoff:
• Instagram: @ken_kabatoff
• Threads: @ken_kabatoff
• Blue Sky: @kenkabatoff.com
• Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/7H0GV

Anthony Epp:
• Instagram: @epptri
• Threads: @epptri
• Blue Sky: @anthonyepp.bsky.social
• Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/2mdYh

Episode Highlights:
1. Introduction to Off the Lot:
• What the podcast is about: The good, the bad, and the chaotic of indie filmmaking.
• A place for creators to connect and learn.

2. Meet Your Hosts:
• Anthony Epp: Assistant director, producer, and indie filmmaker.
• Ken Kabatoff: Writer, producer, and director with extensive experience in TV and film.

3. Key Topics Discussed:
• The current state of the film industry.
• Why now is the best time for independent filmmaking.
• Tips for writing to your resources.
• How to build a team and work with what you have.
• Balancing creativity and safety on set.
• Insights into editing your own film vs. hiring an editor.

4. Crowdfunding Spotlights:
Cahill’s Lanes: A short film about family, identity, and healing.
• Goal: $17,000
• Raised so far: $8,200
• Support the campaign here: https://seedandspark.com/fund/cahills-lanes#story
• Instagram: @mjclatestories

A Deal in Liberty: A Canadian film noir project exploring crime and betrayal.
• Goal: $20,000
• Raised so far: $5,000
• Support the campaign here: https://seedandspark.com/fund/a-deal-in-liberty#story
• Instagram: @thepalmerwells

Resources Mentioned
Films to Watch:
• Coherence
• Primer
• Skinamarink

Tools for Filmmakers:
• Cameras: Panasonic GH5S, DSLR options, and smartphones like iPhones.
• Free Software: DaVinci Resolve for editing.
• DIY Lighting Tricks: LED dog collars for creative lighting effects.

Los Angeles Fire Relief Resources:
• American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/
• California Community Foundation: https://www.calfund.org/
• California Fire Foundation: https://www.cafirefoundation.org/

Thanks for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show. See you next week!

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