In Hollywood, we often hear about budgets, box office numbers, and streaming wars. But no matter how big or small a production is, one truth remains constant: it’s always about the story.
This year, indie studios like A24 and Neon dominated the Oscars. Films like ‘Anora’ and ‘The Brutalist’ proved what indie creators have known for years — audiences connect with authenticity, not dollar signs. Sure big blockbusters are a lot of fun, but the studios with the deepest pockets don’t always win. The storytellers who take risks do.
Through producing ‘Roast Pork Butt’ and ‘Switch’, I saw the power of connecting with the audience which comes from a focus on the narrative. You’re not beholden to corporate obligations — you’re telling the story you believe in. Even when I worked on ‘Origin’, a larger-scale indie film, the heartbeat of the film was still its story. That’s what truly matters.
Whether you’re shooting a no-budget short or a studio-backed feature, audiences want to feel something. Indie film gives us the space to take risks and create those unforgettable, human connections. Now get out there and put your heart into your projects.
Bryan McClure is an actor, writer, producer, and director passionate about independent filmmaking. He has appeared in acclaimed series including ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’, ‘The Walking Dead’, and ‘Mindhunter’, as well as numerous films, including his role opposite Jessica Lange in HBO’s ‘The Great Lillian Hall’, his lead performance in ‘In Other Words’, and his appearance in Ava DuVernay’s ‘Origin’. Bryan is the creator of ‘Roast Pork Butt’ and ‘Perfect Purpose’ and is currently developing ‘Switch’, a romantic comedy feature. He is also a co-founder of Max It Magazine, a platform dedicated to amplifying indie film voices.
