Episode 198 | Joe Amodei Returns with Cannes Report - Part I

Documentary First

This episode is one of a 2-part series where Christian and Jason talk with Joe Amodei about his recent trip to the Cannes Film Festival.

00:50 - Joe describes himself as “a film geek.” He explains why he prides himself in being referred to as not a “suit.”

03:34 - Joe’s involvement with Oscar Best Picture, “Gosford Park.”

07:27 - An inside look at Cannes.

09:29 - What it was like promoting a documentary called “The Third Wave” (IMDB: The Third Wave (2007) - IMDb).

11:59 - Christian reviews her experience going to Sundance Film Festival

13:03 - Joe shares the difference between the 2 festivals, such as no Q&A’s at Cannes.

15:21 - How to get into Cannes Film Festival, both practical and impractical ways

18:23 - Joe makes it clear that he goes to “Cannes every year not to attend the film festival. But to attend the film market.”

23:09 - Joe explains the role of a distributor at film festivals.

25:45 - Christian asks what an independent filmmaker should do to maximize the film festivals, they unpack some very blunt, straight-forward steps.

29:47 - Joe makes the following profound statement “if you're looking to sell your movie, looking to raise money, make revenue to pay back investors, then these film festivals aren't going to do anything for you. BUT being at a film MARKET, walking around and trying to sell your film, to countries all over the world, and being a part of the industry, is where you need to be to be a part of the film industry”

32:48 - Joe reiterates his encouragement to young filmmakers and producers that help is available.

34:36- Joe warns NOT to be clueless about the industry you are in. You have to read the trades. You have to subscribe to Variety, Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter, and Indie Wire, even if it costs you $200 a year. It is well worth it. You have to stay up with the trades. If you don't, you're going to get lost. It's really an ongoing education. Things are changing in the business almost every day.

Part 2 of this 2-part series will be released later this month.

NOTE - NO DocuView DejaVu this episode