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What makes a film truly independent, and how can you tell if a movie is just pretending to be one?

India Rioch

When it comes to independent films, many people have different opinions on what truly makes a film independent. For some, it's the low budget or guerilla-style production. For others, it's the creative freedom and lack of studio interference. Regardless of one's definition, it is important to be able to differentiate between a film that is truly independent and one that is merely pretending to be so.

Some indicators of a truly independent film include a lack of major studio backing, a unique visual style, a non-linear or experimental narrative structure, and a willingness to explore taboo or controversial subjects. However, these factors are not necessary in every independent film. In fact, there are many independent films with high production values and conventional storytelling techniques.

One way to tell if a movie is pretending to be independent is to research its production history and who is involved in funding the film. Is the director someone with a track record of working with major studios, or is this their first independent venture? Is the film being released by a major distribution company, or is it being self-distributed by the filmmakers? These factors can give you a sense of whether the film is genuinely independent or simply trying to capitalize on the indie aesthetic to appeal to audiences.

It is also important to consider the reputation of the film within the independent film community. Does the film have a history of being well-received by independent film festivals, or has it failed to gain traction within the indie circuit? This can give you some insight into how the film is perceived by those who are passionate about independent film.

Ultimately, the definition of an independent film is subjective and can vary from person to person. What one person considers truly independent may be different from another's perspective. However, by doing research on the film's production background, distribution, and reception within the independent film community, one can gain a better understanding of whether a film is genuinely independent or just pretending to be.

Some additional questions that arise when discussing independent films include: How do we reconcile the idea of commercial success with independent film? Can a film be both independent and commercial? How does the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon impact the independent film world? Is it easier or harder now for independent filmmakers to get their work seen by a wider audience?