36 - Director Phil Claydon: Why Independent Filmmaking Has Never Been More Exciting

What does it really take to build a career as an independent filmmaker?

This week I'm joined by writer and director Phil Claydon (Lesbian Vampire Killers, Alone, Within, Helloween) for a wide-ranging conversation about filmmaking, horror, storytelling and the changing landscape of independent cinema.

From directing studio features to making a micro-budget horror film with little more than determination, a MacBook and a huge amount of perseverance, Phil shares an honest look at what it really takes to keep creating in one of the toughest industries in the world.

We also explore why horror continues to launch exciting new filmmakers, whether the traditional distribution model still works for independent cinema, and why post-production and especially sound, is where films truly come to life.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why there's never been a more exciting time to be an independent filmmaker
• The success of films like Obsession and Backrooms
• Building a career through conversation rather than waiting for a "big break"
• The reality of directing Lesbian Vampire Killers
• Making Helloween on a micro-budget
• How directors should think about post-production
• Why sound is one of the most powerful storytelling tools in filmmaking
• Creating atmosphere, tension and world-building through sound
• The importance of film scores and sonic identity
• Why horror remains one of the best genres for emerging filmmakers

If you're an independent filmmaker, writer, producer or anyone passionate about telling better stories, there's a huge amount to take away from this conversation.