Summary The conversation covers various aspects of independent filmmaking, including pre-production, budget allocation, economics, distribution challenges, and creating a platform for independent filmmakers. The guest shares his experience of promoting films through audience referrals and highlights the importance of a strong script and talented actors as the pillars of independent filmmaking. Takeaways Pre-production is crucial for the success of a film.Factors like location, resources, and story impact the film budget.Independent films face challenges in distribution and monetization.Creating a platform for independent filmmakers can provide opportunities for showcasing their work.Promoting films through audience referrals can be an effective way to reach a wider audience.A strong script and talented actors are essential pillars of independent filmmaking. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Importance of Pre-Production01:28 Factors Affecting Film Budget02:22 Economics of Independent Films07:23 Challenges in Distributing Independent Films09:06 Creating a Platform for Independent Filmmakers15:05 Promoting Films through Audience Referrals19:03 Budget Allocation for Independent Films22:08 Five Pillars of Independent Filmmaking   We are a top 10 podcast in India and consistently rank in the top 50 in France, Germany, Tunisia, and Africa. Our podcast has been recognized by Spotify, coming in at #9 in a national level podcasting competition and being inducted into the IFP Podcasting Hall of Fame. Out of 1200 podcasts, M-Square was also chosen as one of the top 33 to graduate from IFP Labs by Spotify. Some of our other achievements include: Winning #1 Podcast Workshop Series by Hindustan Times and Hubhopper Conducting workshops at prestigious institutions such as IIM Bangalore, IIM Ahmedabad, NMIMS, and MoodIndigo (IIT Bombay) Being the first Indian podcast to conduct a workshop at MoodIndigo Collaborating with Bound India for a workshop Hosting Bollywood celebrities like Shruti Seth, Kunal Bakshi, and Nidhi Bhanushali M-Square Podcast is dedicated to sharing inspiring and motivating stories from people who are making a difference in the world. We believe in the power of sharing experiences and knowledge, and strive to create a positive impact through our podcast. Thank you for joining us on this journey.   If you like our work follow us on instagram  @anuragmanik7 @msquarepodcast   and as we always say   Until Next Time:   Stay Quirky! Stay Different!