Indy Film Co-op Attracts Moviemakers Worldwide

Are you a burgeoning moviemaker or someone who simply loves discussing film? If so, you should consider becoming a member of the Indy Film Co-op. Although based in Franklin, Indiana, the Co-op is available to moviemakers worldwide, providing a digital forum for discussion, education and promotion of independent cinema from around the world. As a member of the Co-op, moviemakers can make contacts, develop relationships, exchange ideas and take advantage of networking opportunities.

Recently, the Indy Film Co-op embarked on a new venture: Hosting the wildly popular “B” Movie Celebration in Franklin. The annual three-day event features screenings of more than 50 classic “B” movies, educational seminars and appearances by genre legends like Troma Studios co-founder Lloyd Kaufman.

MM caught up with Indy Film Co-op co-founder Bill Dever to discuss this exciting new haven for moviemakers and movie fans.

Kyle Rupprecht (MM): What does the Indy Film Co-op offer independent moviemakers? Why should one become a member?

Bill Dever (BD): We offer a pool of production and post-production equipment, deals with major motion picture suppliers, a database of entertainment industry contacts and a great vehicle of networking and building your team.

MM: Is the Co-op strictly for Indiana moviemakers? Can anyone join?

BD: The Indy in our name is often confusing. It is actually more of the British use of the term “independent.” In our mind, Hollywood has polluted the independent moniker, so we gave it a new twist. While physically we do have a base in Indiana, our membership is global—we have members in the United States, Canada, the U.K., Australia, the Philippines, Romania, India etc. Anyone can join but to become a producing member and on a professional track they must apply.

MM: How did the Co-op initially get started?

BD: A group of filmmakers saw a need for an incubator for independent cinema and they believed it could be virtual, thus the Co-op came into being.

MM: What are your plans for the future of the Co-op?

BD: The Co-op this year has produced three shorts and two features. Our plans next year include the production of five features. Our continued goal is to incubate regional film economies. We even began a small roll-out of theatrical distribution.

MM: The second annual “B” Movie Celebration, which you helped organize, took place this past September. What is your favorite aspect of the Celebration and what was your fondest memory from this year’s festivities?

BD: My fondest memory is Sarah Dunn receiving her Golden Cob Award for her dedication to the city where the Celebration is held. She also had the day named for her. It was very special.

The “B” Movie Celebration is a very different event. We show a ton of great movies, but the most important aspect is the talk—the ability to have students, fans and filmmakers network on a equal footing. I think that is what makes the Celebration very special.

MM: What’s the best piece of advice you can offer burgeoning moviemakers?

BD: Do what you love, the money will follow. And, every filmmaker should have a tattoo of “If” by Rudyard Kipling. But, of course, there is never such a thing as easy money.

For more information on becoming a member, go to www.indyfilmco-op.org.