The Brave and the Kind: A film by John W. Yost

So we’ve spent a lot of time on this conversation about where it’s all going…so I ask..What’s next? Not only for this blog conversation, but with the future of our industry. We recently teamed up with the Sarasota Fringe Festival happening next week in Sarasota, FL. Thanks to Patrick and his crew for putting something like this together and for including our discussion. Those who want to contribute…just shoot me your thoughts over FB.

My film, The Brave and the Kind, is playing Saturday night at 6PM. This film has been a great experience, but it’s reception has been frustrating. Most of the time we (The producers and I) get messages from festivals that say they would show it, BUT, this year the festival needs asses in seats and it’s a risky film to program. Basically true indie filmmaking is being pushed out due to fear of pour ticket sales. I’m sure the folks at the Fringe Fest are feeling the squeeze like everyone else, but maybe it’s time for all of us to ask the question…are film festivals socially relevant and fiscally responsible? In a world so connected do we need a week long place for them to gather in order to be praised and seen? Can we scale back the waste, the pomp, the circumstance, the parties…and still have a good time. Are we willing to give up gift baskets, or happy hours so that more truly independent films can be showcased? I’ve never been to SXSW or Sundance, but from my vantage point…outside…with my face pressed against the glass…it seems that maybe the quality of films are declining, and the sales less relevant. (Feel more than free to fight me on this.:-) I have also watched several really great films go through the festival ringer…only to come out the other end with minimal exposure and film-by-the-pound purchase orders. The festival carrot maybe rotting. Read more >>

I think that the absolute main reason why we “fringe filmmakers” should be making the most personal works is that we have the freedom. It’s as simple as that. We are free from financial expectations and also free from critical expectations of what our films should be. It is our right, hell our responsibility, to be as honest as possible, to really follow our hearts and instincts. This may not always lead us to the best results, but they certainly lead us to the most interesting outcomes. Read more >>

In this new world of indie film production and distribution it seems that some films only see the light of day at festivals. Some go on to DVD sales, or some might have small theater runs in places like LA or NYC. Read more >>