The Blog for Video 2.0
Sunday, March 2, 2008
HungryFlix.com raises file size to 1GB in order to support HD content
HungryFlix.com is releasing system improvements today that will greatly enhance the site's ability to handle larger file sizes and scalability to more users.
These improvements have led the site to increase their maximum file size from 500MB to 1GB. Content providers have always been able to store as many files as they wish but with the file size doubled, the door is open to more HD content.
"We are seeing growth on both sides of the HD equation" said HungryFlix CEO Brian Andrews. "Prosumer HD equipment is now in the hands of more filmmakers and producers. These people are shooting in HD and want to present their content in the best possible resolution. Likewise, we are seeing growth in the home media server market with game consoles, slingbox and Apple TV. So we now have both providers and consumers look for HD quality."
HungryFlix.com's goal is to provide consumers and providers with the most choice available anywhere. Users can purchase DRM-free content and move it from one device to another without restrictions.
These improvements have led the site to increase their maximum file size from 500MB to 1GB. Content providers have always been able to store as many files as they wish but with the file size doubled, the door is open to more HD content.
"We are seeing growth on both sides of the HD equation" said HungryFlix CEO Brian Andrews. "Prosumer HD equipment is now in the hands of more filmmakers and producers. These people are shooting in HD and want to present their content in the best possible resolution. Likewise, we are seeing growth in the home media server market with game consoles, slingbox and Apple TV. So we now have both providers and consumers look for HD quality."
HungryFlix.com's goal is to provide consumers and providers with the most choice available anywhere. Users can purchase DRM-free content and move it from one device to another without restrictions.
Labels: apple tv, hungryflix, indie film, ipod movies, movie downloads
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Romantic comedy to premiere on iTunes today
The first feature film to be launched exclusively on iTunes is opening today. Written and directed by Edward Burns, Purple Violets is a romantic comedy starring Selma Blair, Debra Messing, and Patrick Wilson. A preview page is already available on iTunes along with a trailer.
Labels: edward burns, independent, indie film, iTunes
Thursday, November 8, 2007
On Set - New social network for filmmakers
HungryFlix.com, one of the web's leading indie film sites, is proud to announce the beta release of "On Set", a new social networking site for indie filmmakers, video producers and film fans.
On Set allows users to create connections with other users, share videos and photos, create blogs and forums. Users can share their knowledge and passion for filmmaking and help educate new filmmakers on the art of making movies.
On Set is available now and membership is free. Users can create an account today. Visit On Set - Indie Film Social Network now.
On Set allows users to create connections with other users, share videos and photos, create blogs and forums. Users can share their knowledge and passion for filmmaking and help educate new filmmakers on the art of making movies.
On Set is available now and membership is free. Users can create an account today. Visit On Set - Indie Film Social Network now.
Labels: filmmaking, hungryflix, independent film, indie film, indie movies
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
HungryFlix On Set launches
HungryFlix.com is proud to announce the launch of On Set, a new social
networking site dedicated to indie filmmakers.
networking site dedicated to indie filmmakers.
Users can connect with other filmmakers, producers and fans by
creating blogs, forums and sharing photos.
The new resource adds great new features to HungryFlix's popular indie
film site.
On Set is in live beta at http://my.hungryflix.com
Labels: filmmaking, hungryflix, indie film, social networking, web 2.0
Saturday, October 27, 2007
WSJ Online: Editing big films is now down on small computers
The Wall Street Journal takes a look at how more and more big time Hollywood editors are now using computers decked out with Avid or Final Cut Pro for editing. Looks like the digital word is not just for indie film any more...
Labels: avid, final cut, hollywood, indie film, video editing
Web delivers new audience to short films
The San Francisco Chronicle writes about how iTunes and Web sites are fueling new interest in short films. It focuses on Tiffany Shlain ('The Tribe'), Jon Bloom ('Overnight Sensation'), and Jesus Beltran ('The Grass Grows Green'), among others. From Joe Garofoli's piece:
Creators of short films (40 minutes or less) have finally found an audience through such online sites as iTunes, Revver.com and San Francisco's Frameline Films and Caachi.com, which specializes in distributing independent films. And those sites are even starting to bring a revenue trickle to older shorts that audiences are unearthing online.
Shorts haven't had this kind of exposure since before 1950, when pre-TV-owning audiences saw shorts on the same bill with features and newsreels at the local movie theater. Now, when Oscar viewers hear about a handful of really cool-sounding short films that screen at one the world's 5,000 film festivals, they can actually see them.
"We are at the beginning of a transitional moment" in the short-film industry, said David Straus, CEO and co-founder of Withoutabox.com, an 8-year-old Los Angeles outfit that has helped 150,000 independent filmmakers market their films using the Internet. "It's not just that people can download them and see films online, it's that filmmakers are learning what they can do to reach out to audiences themselves."
Creators of short films (40 minutes or less) have finally found an audience through such online sites as iTunes, Revver.com and San Francisco's Frameline Films and Caachi.com, which specializes in distributing independent films. And those sites are even starting to bring a revenue trickle to older shorts that audiences are unearthing online.
Shorts haven't had this kind of exposure since before 1950, when pre-TV-owning audiences saw shorts on the same bill with features and newsreels at the local movie theater. Now, when Oscar viewers hear about a handful of really cool-sounding short films that screen at one the world's 5,000 film festivals, they can actually see them.
"We are at the beginning of a transitional moment" in the short-film industry, said David Straus, CEO and co-founder of Withoutabox.com, an 8-year-old Los Angeles outfit that has helped 150,000 independent filmmakers market their films using the Internet. "It's not just that people can download them and see films online, it's that filmmakers are learning what they can do to reach out to audiences themselves."
Labels: hungryflix, independent film, indie film, iTunes, short films
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Apple supports student filmmakers with Insomnia Festival
The Insomnia Film Festival provides an opportunity for high school and college filmmakers to show their talents, win prizes and gain some great experience.
The festival is another 24-hour competition. Where entrants write, cast, shoot, edit, score, and upload a 3-minute masterpiece within 24 hours. No problem, right?
The festival is another 24-hour competition. Where entrants write, cast, shoot, edit, score, and upload a 3-minute masterpiece within 24 hours. No problem, right?
Labels: apple, film festival, filmmaking, indie film
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Tips on Producing and Directing Indie Films
Heath McKnight of Digital Media Net has a great introduction article with tips to keep you organized while producing/directing an independent film.
The article gives insight into developing your script, pre-production and production tasks that every producer/director should know.
The article gives insight into developing your script, pre-production and production tasks that every producer/director should know.
Labels: filmmaking, indie film, producing
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
How to get funding for your low budget film
Any independent filmmaker or producer knows how difficult it is to acquire funding. Micro Filmmaker Magazine has published an article on "Fund-Raising For Your Micro-Budget Film.” The article is written by two filmmakers who have raised funds for three separate films one at $28k, one at $26k, and their last film around $10k.
The article gives details on a variety of film fundraising options: investors, credit cards, scrimping, grants, favors, and found money. This is a great read if you’ve never tried to get financing for a film before and can give you a good idea of what options are out there for you. You can check out the article Fund-Raising For Your Micro-Budget Film.
The article gives details on a variety of film fundraising options: investors, credit cards, scrimping, grants, favors, and found money. This is a great read if you’ve never tried to get financing for a film before and can give you a good idea of what options are out there for you. You can check out the article Fund-Raising For Your Micro-Budget Film.
Labels: filmmaking, independent film, indie film, micro-cinema, movies, no budget film
How the iPhone will change Indie Film - Forever
Apple released the iPhone to much hype and fanfare. It billed the device as three devices in one. It was a revolutionary product for the cell phone industry. But the iPhone is having an effect outside of the mobile phone and computing industries. In fact, we belive that history will show the iPhone's release as one of the single biggest events in the history of independent filmmaking.
What, exactly, does the iPhone--a mobile phone/internet device/widescren iPod--have to do with indie film? Well, a lot. The movie download market must prepare for a great new phase as we look forward to more and more great devices capable of playing our content.
For independent content to survive and thrive, it must move to new delivery devices like Apple TV, iPod and now the iPhone. Support for these new devices will lead to growth in the audience for indie content. Many "mainstream" consumers will not view indie films at screenings, festivals or DVD. The films are too hard to find, often barried in video rental store shelves or playing in small art house theaters. This has been the case for the past few decades. Once every five years there is a breakout hit--a Clerks or Blair Witch--that gives the indie community something to rally around. The independent movie press declare, "We've arrived. This is the 'Year of the Indie'". Just as quickly as these hits arise, the excitement dies down and the great content made in the aftermath gets lost in the shuffle.
Now, for what may truely be the first time, consumers will have in their hands a great portable media device. You may argue that the iPod with video or the PSP have existed for a few years. But, these are devices that most people do not *have* to carry at all times. These are "luxury" devices that we carry when we want to. Cell phones are vastly different. Most Americans now carry their cell phone at all times--to the gym, on the bus, walking through the mall, at the ball game. We always have our phones with us. Now that Apple has delivered "the best iPod ever built" (Apple's words) and snuck it inside a phone, we now have a captive audience that will always have viewing capability.
This is, or has the potential to be, huge. Just look no farther than the iPhone's home screen. Right there on that gorgious 3.5" screen is a direct link to everyone's favorite dancing-cats-meet-dancing-teenagers clip sharing site, YouTube. Think about that. Apple put YouTube directly on the home screen of their revolutionary new device. Now, this could be entirely motivated by a new advertisting or search revenue deal Apple has struck with Google. But even if it is, the fact that YouTube is on the home screen of the iPhone can not be ignored.
Apple believes in mobile entertainment. They created the iPod so that we all could enjoy all our music at any time or place. Now, we are closer than ever to that dream for video. The iPhone's 3.5" screen has a resolution higher than many computer monitors. It displays MPEG4 H.264 video beautifully--better than any portable device ever has. These quality features combined with the simple fact that people will actually have the device with them, lead to great market opportunities.
Of course, the iPhone is, for now, a niche device. It's high price tag mean that it won't be found in the hands of many teens or college students in the near future. But just as with all technology, the price will drop over time. The iPhone will also force other handset makers and cell providers to design better devices. Devices that compete with the iPhone. When this happens, consumers win.
HungryFlix.com is ready to help independent producers, filmmakers and musicians in this new distribution world. We believe that this new class of mobile devices will open the doors to great indie content. It is time to get onboard. There are hundreds of thousands of movie and music fans out there with new devices that are hungry for great content.
http://www.hungryflix.com
Brian Andrews is an independent filmmaker and producer and CEO of http://www.HungryFlix.com, an online film distributor focused on new media.
What, exactly, does the iPhone--a mobile phone/internet device/widescren iPod--have to do with indie film? Well, a lot. The movie download market must prepare for a great new phase as we look forward to more and more great devices capable of playing our content.
For independent content to survive and thrive, it must move to new delivery devices like Apple TV, iPod and now the iPhone. Support for these new devices will lead to growth in the audience for indie content. Many "mainstream" consumers will not view indie films at screenings, festivals or DVD. The films are too hard to find, often barried in video rental store shelves or playing in small art house theaters. This has been the case for the past few decades. Once every five years there is a breakout hit--a Clerks or Blair Witch--that gives the indie community something to rally around. The independent movie press declare, "We've arrived. This is the 'Year of the Indie'". Just as quickly as these hits arise, the excitement dies down and the great content made in the aftermath gets lost in the shuffle.
Now, for what may truely be the first time, consumers will have in their hands a great portable media device. You may argue that the iPod with video or the PSP have existed for a few years. But, these are devices that most people do not *have* to carry at all times. These are "luxury" devices that we carry when we want to. Cell phones are vastly different. Most Americans now carry their cell phone at all times--to the gym, on the bus, walking through the mall, at the ball game. We always have our phones with us. Now that Apple has delivered "the best iPod ever built" (Apple's words) and snuck it inside a phone, we now have a captive audience that will always have viewing capability.
This is, or has the potential to be, huge. Just look no farther than the iPhone's home screen. Right there on that gorgious 3.5" screen is a direct link to everyone's favorite dancing-cats-meet-dancing-teenagers clip sharing site, YouTube. Think about that. Apple put YouTube directly on the home screen of their revolutionary new device. Now, this could be entirely motivated by a new advertisting or search revenue deal Apple has struck with Google. But even if it is, the fact that YouTube is on the home screen of the iPhone can not be ignored.
Apple believes in mobile entertainment. They created the iPod so that we all could enjoy all our music at any time or place. Now, we are closer than ever to that dream for video. The iPhone's 3.5" screen has a resolution higher than many computer monitors. It displays MPEG4 H.264 video beautifully--better than any portable device ever has. These quality features combined with the simple fact that people will actually have the device with them, lead to great market opportunities.
Of course, the iPhone is, for now, a niche device. It's high price tag mean that it won't be found in the hands of many teens or college students in the near future. But just as with all technology, the price will drop over time. The iPhone will also force other handset makers and cell providers to design better devices. Devices that compete with the iPhone. When this happens, consumers win.
HungryFlix.com is ready to help independent producers, filmmakers and musicians in this new distribution world. We believe that this new class of mobile devices will open the doors to great indie content. It is time to get onboard. There are hundreds of thousands of movie and music fans out there with new devices that are hungry for great content.
http://www.hungryflix.com
Brian Andrews is an independent filmmaker and producer and CEO of http://www.HungryFlix.com, an online film distributor focused on new media.
Labels: independent, indie film, indie movies, iphone, ipod, movies, short films
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Video download sites reviewed
Apple TV Source, a great blog that covers all things Apple TV, has posted a review of video download stores that offer and alternative to iTunes for Apple TV owners.
The site takes a look at HungryFlix.com, which offers Apple TV movie downloads from independent filmmakers. Apple TV Source says that with some improvements HungryFlix can become, "a powerhouse for independent filmmakers."
The site takes a look at HungryFlix.com, which offers Apple TV movie downloads from independent filmmakers. Apple TV Source says that with some improvements HungryFlix can become, "a powerhouse for independent filmmakers."
Labels: apple tv, filmmaking, hungryflix, independent, indie film, iTunes, movie downloads
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Cool New Video App for iPhone - HungryFlix Trailers
Move over YouTube---you can now view HungryFlix trailers right on your iPhone.
We are proud to release a Beta version of the HungryFlix Trailer application for iPhone users.
Click on a thumbnail to view the trailer. You will see a QuickTime image with a blue play button. Click the blue play button. Bbe patient for the file to download.
http://www.hungryflix.com/iphone.php
We are proud to release a Beta version of the HungryFlix Trailer application for iPhone users.
Click on a thumbnail to view the trailer. You will see a QuickTime image with a blue play button. Click the blue play button. Bbe patient for the file to download.
http://www.hungryflix.com/iphone.php
Labels: apple, indie film, iphone, movies, trailers, video, youtube
Friday, June 8, 2007
Near Toronto? Check out Mighty Brave Productions local screening
MULTI AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTION COMPANY TO UNVEIL COLLECTION OF COMEDIC SHORTS AT ITS FIRST LOCAL SCREENING
TORONTO – Mighty Brave Productions is thrilled to screen a collection of their most recent comedic short films, An Evening of Mighty Brave Shorts, on Thursday, June 21, at Camera, Toronto's premiere lounge and screening room. The night will include three separate screenings that will include a sneak peak of Bonded Pairs, written & directed by John Bertram (director of the original Degrassi Junior High), Boundless, written and directed by Donnie Mullins,(created for Global TVs In the Can), Chasing Aces (directed by Donnie Mullins), and The Gospel of Phi (directed by Donnie Mullins).
“We've had an amazing last three years having produced nine short films,” said Lisa Wegner. Our international screenings and television platform have gotten our stories seen by over a million viewers. With audience and industry support and we're thrilled to finally show our work (on the
big screen) in our hometown.
BondedPairs is a media-mangling mockudrama, playfully answering the curious question: what if our genetic programming was taken over by television programming? The film weaves a tongue-in-cheek narrative around a series of comic, commercial-style vignettes -- and features an accomplished cast of seasoned performers, including Rosemary Dunsmore, Mag Ruffman, Dan Duran, and many (many!) more. Selected scenes from the first half of this unconventional "feature-short" will be presented, and audience comments invited.
Boundless: In this hilarious short, a young woman becomes concerned with her boyfriend's relationship with an 80 year old man, and demands to meet the elderly man who's paging her boyfriend in the middle of the night.
Chasing Aces is a mockumentary about three Riverview patients' obsessed with flying.
The Gospel of Phi: In pursuit of lost love a man finds himself training with one of self-helps least known gurus.
Founded in 1999 by Lisa Wegner, Mighty Brave Productions has developed into a successful and dynamic full service creative film company. Since its inception, Mighty Brave Productions has produced a number of award-winning films that have screened at festivals around the world, including Cannes Film Festival (Short Film Corner). Mighty Brave Productions have built and nurtured strong industry relationships on all levels of production, from the creative team to industry suppliers to skilled crew members. Our indie company believes the best films emerge from a playful, co-creative and safe environment.
Don't miss your chance to laugh the night away. Seating is limited and tickets are sold on first-come first-serve basis. Show times are 7pm, 8pm & 9pm.
Tickets for the screening are $10.00 general admission and $8.00 for students from the Camera box office. Valid student i.d. required. Camera is located at 1028 Queen Street West (west of Ossington)
If you can't make it to Toronto you can download Mighty Brave's movies at HungryFlix.com.
TORONTO – Mighty Brave Productions is thrilled to screen a collection of their most recent comedic short films, An Evening of Mighty Brave Shorts, on Thursday, June 21, at Camera, Toronto's premiere lounge and screening room. The night will include three separate screenings that will include a sneak peak of Bonded Pairs, written & directed by John Bertram (director of the original Degrassi Junior High), Boundless, written and directed by Donnie Mullins,(created for Global TVs In the Can), Chasing Aces (directed by Donnie Mullins), and The Gospel of Phi (directed by Donnie Mullins).
“We've had an amazing last three years having produced nine short films,” said Lisa Wegner. Our international screenings and television platform have gotten our stories seen by over a million viewers. With audience and industry support and we're thrilled to finally show our work (on the
big screen) in our hometown.
BondedPairs is a media-mangling mockudrama, playfully answering the curious question: what if our genetic programming was taken over by television programming? The film weaves a tongue-in-cheek narrative around a series of comic, commercial-style vignettes -- and features an accomplished cast of seasoned performers, including Rosemary Dunsmore, Mag Ruffman, Dan Duran, and many (many!) more. Selected scenes from the first half of this unconventional "feature-short" will be presented, and audience comments invited.
Boundless: In this hilarious short, a young woman becomes concerned with her boyfriend's relationship with an 80 year old man, and demands to meet the elderly man who's paging her boyfriend in the middle of the night.
Chasing Aces is a mockumentary about three Riverview patients' obsessed with flying.
The Gospel of Phi: In pursuit of lost love a man finds himself training with one of self-helps least known gurus.
Founded in 1999 by Lisa Wegner, Mighty Brave Productions has developed into a successful and dynamic full service creative film company. Since its inception, Mighty Brave Productions has produced a number of award-winning films that have screened at festivals around the world, including Cannes Film Festival (Short Film Corner). Mighty Brave Productions have built and nurtured strong industry relationships on all levels of production, from the creative team to industry suppliers to skilled crew members. Our indie company believes the best films emerge from a playful, co-creative and safe environment.
Don't miss your chance to laugh the night away. Seating is limited and tickets are sold on first-come first-serve basis. Show times are 7pm, 8pm & 9pm.
Tickets for the screening are $10.00 general admission and $8.00 for students from the Camera box office. Valid student i.d. required. Camera is located at 1028 Queen Street West (west of Ossington)
If you can't make it to Toronto you can download Mighty Brave's movies at HungryFlix.com.
Labels: digital download, independent, indie film
Friday, May 25, 2007
On The Lot: Week 1 Summary
The Steven Spielberg/Mark Burnett Reality/Talent show "On The Lot" premiered this week on Fox. "On The Lot" is Project Greenlight meets American Idol…thousands of filmmakers from across the globe submitted short films into the online portion of the contents. Those entries were voted on by web site visitors and the top 50 filmmakers were invited to LA to take part in the show. After weeks of competitions one final winner will be awarded a $1 million development deal.
The show followed the typical reality competition format. Contestant interviews were mixed between challenges and a review session by a panel of three judges. Sound familiar? The first challenge was to create a deliver a pitch from one of five randomly assigned log lines. With fifty contestants in the mix, we were only shown some of the best highlights and lowlights. Fourteen people were eliminated after their pitch just didn't sell with the judges.
The next challenge is to write/produce/direct/edit a 2.5 minute short film. Again, the filmmakers were given a log line. This time they will work in teams of three and have 24 hours to complete the film. Of course, this is where the real drama starts as strong minded people are forced to work together in a pressure situation.
Overall, "On The Lot" seems to have potential to be an interesting look at the filmmaking process. Here's to hoping that it can move past the basic reality competition format already beaten into the ground by American Idol and The Apprentice.
The show followed the typical reality competition format. Contestant interviews were mixed between challenges and a review session by a panel of three judges. Sound familiar? The first challenge was to create a deliver a pitch from one of five randomly assigned log lines. With fifty contestants in the mix, we were only shown some of the best highlights and lowlights. Fourteen people were eliminated after their pitch just didn't sell with the judges.
The next challenge is to write/produce/direct/edit a 2.5 minute short film. Again, the filmmakers were given a log line. This time they will work in teams of three and have 24 hours to complete the film. Of course, this is where the real drama starts as strong minded people are forced to work together in a pressure situation.
Overall, "On The Lot" seems to have potential to be an interesting look at the filmmaking process. Here's to hoping that it can move past the basic reality competition format already beaten into the ground by American Idol and The Apprentice.
Labels: filmmaking, fox, indie film, on the lot
Thursday, May 3, 2007
HungryFlix announces platform is now available for film festivals
HungryFlix.com has announced that its online distribution platform is now open to film festivals looking to add digital downloading to their offerings.
HungryFlix.com will provide all hosting, bandwidth and payment processing for the film festival. The site’s standard profit sharing model in which profits will be split between the content provider and the online distributor will apply.
Andrews added, “By using our platform for online distribution, any film festival—even a small local festival—can now be international. This can be a great additional marketing source for the festival and more importantly, the filmmakers. It truly is a win-win scenario.”
Film festival organizers can contact HungryFlix.com for more information at info@hungryflix.com
http://www.hungryflix.com
HungryFlix.com will provide all hosting, bandwidth and payment processing for the film festival. The site’s standard profit sharing model in which profits will be split between the content provider and the online distributor will apply.
Andrews added, “By using our platform for online distribution, any film festival—even a small local festival—can now be international. This can be a great additional marketing source for the festival and more importantly, the filmmakers. It truly is a win-win scenario.”
Film festival organizers can contact HungryFlix.com for more information at info@hungryflix.com
http://www.hungryflix.com
Labels: digital download, film festival, hungryflix, indie film, online distribution
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
NeeTeeVee reports on HungryFlix
Jackson West has posted a nice summary of HungryFlix.com and our support for independent filmmakers. Mr. West writes for NewTeeVee, a great blog covering online video digital distribution.
We apprieciate the mention, which you can read here HungryFlix Delivers for Indies
We apprieciate the mention, which you can read here HungryFlix Delivers for Indies
Labels: hungryflix, indie film, newteevee, online video
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Apple TV-ready film available on HungryFlix
Forward looking director/producer Nathyn Brendan Masters has released an Apple TV compatible special edition of his new action film "Wages of Sin" on HungryFlix.com.
The Apple TV version will give users a near DVD quality product at a lower price and with the convience of being able to view the movie on an iPod, computer with iTunes or on the new Apple TV device.
Download Wages of Sin at HungryFlix.com today!
The Apple TV version will give users a near DVD quality product at a lower price and with the convience of being able to view the movie on an iPod, computer with iTunes or on the new Apple TV device.
Download Wages of Sin at HungryFlix.com today!
Labels: apple tv, digital download, indie film, iTunes, movie downloads
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Wages of Sin available at HungryFlix.com!
HungryFlix.com is proud to announce that Independent action director Nathyn Brendan Masters' new martial art flick "Wages of Sin" is available for download in both iPod and PSP versions at http://www.hungryflix.com.
"I wanted to do something like 'American Ninja' or 'Black Belt Jones' something old school but with some modern elements thrown in," says Masters. "I wanted to do something people could have a little fun with."
We are very excited to have such excellent content on HungryFlix.
"I wanted to do something like 'American Ninja' or 'Black Belt Jones' something old school but with some modern elements thrown in," says Masters. "I wanted to do something people could have a little fun with."
We are very excited to have such excellent content on HungryFlix.
Labels: digital download, indie film, nathyn brendan masters, online distribution, online video, ready to download, wages of sin
Monday, March 12, 2007
Mac Filmmaking Podcast - HungryFlix Interview
The guys over at the Mac Filmmaking Podcast were kind enough to interview HungryFlix.com's Brian Andrews for their March 10, 2007 podcast.
Topics included background on how HungryFlix works, what makes HungryFlix different from other video sites, and how filmmakers and video producers can get paid for their work. We had a great discussion.
You can subscribe to Mac Filmmaking via iTunes.
And be sure to vote at Podcast alley.
Topics included background on how HungryFlix works, what makes HungryFlix different from other video sites, and how filmmakers and video producers can get paid for their work. We had a great discussion.
You can subscribe to Mac Filmmaking via iTunes.
And be sure to vote at Podcast alley.
Labels: hungryflix, indie film, iTunes, mac filmmaking, online distribution, online video, podcast, short films
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Could Wal-Mart's entry into movie downloads actually help others?
When mega retailer Wal-Mart enters a market, most existing competitors fear for their life. This may not be the case with online distribution and movie downloads claims CinemaNow CEO Curt Marvis.
ContentAgenda.com is reporting that Wal-Mart's entry into movie downloads may actually help because it bring more studio support for online distribution. Wal-Mart pushes 40% of all DVD sales, this has kept the studios from attempting anything online that would annoy Wal-Mart.
Marvis predicts that "by 2010 downloading of movie and video content will be as commonplace as downloading of music is in today's world. It will happen that fast."
We are already seeing some movie downloads with the limited success of CinemaNow, Amazon Unbox, HungryFlix.com, iTunes, Vongo and MovieLink.
What separates the movie downloads at HungryFlix.com is the premium independent content that can not be found at other sites.
ContentAgenda.com is reporting that Wal-Mart's entry into movie downloads may actually help because it bring more studio support for online distribution. Wal-Mart pushes 40% of all DVD sales, this has kept the studios from attempting anything online that would annoy Wal-Mart.
Marvis predicts that "by 2010 downloading of movie and video content will be as commonplace as downloading of music is in today's world. It will happen that fast."
We are already seeing some movie downloads with the limited success of CinemaNow, Amazon Unbox, HungryFlix.com, iTunes, Vongo and MovieLink.
What separates the movie downloads at HungryFlix.com is the premium independent content that can not be found at other sites.
Labels: amazon unbox, hungryflix, indie film, iTunes, movie downloads, online distribution, online video
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
ZDNet says, "Who needs iTunes? The rise of the indie friendly video download store"
Who needs iTunes? The rise of the ‘indie friendly’ video download store by ZDNet's Steve O'Hear -- Adams Media Research predicts that by 2011, the online video market will be worth $5.8 billion, and bucking today's trend, the majority of that revenue will be generated through selling downloads not ad-supported content. It's perhaps no surprise then, to see a number of paid-for download services pop up over the last 18 months...
Labels: download, hungryflix, independent, indie film, ipod, iTunes, online video, video distribution, video download
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
iTunes lists first indie film
In news that is very interesting for us here at HungryFlix.com, Variety is reporting that Apple has opened the door to independent video producers for the first time.
Apple's iTunes store on Tuesday started selling "That," a snowboarding action pic made for DVD by Forum Snowboards. This is the first time iTunes has sold video content that didn't come from an established network, studio or distributor.
Given iTunes' dominance in the nascent digital download market, that's sure to generate hordes of interest among independent film producers in all genres who don't have a distributor.
But in a sign that Apple isn't quite sure what to do with pics outside its strict categories, "That" and Studio411's content are being sold in iTunes TV section at $1.99, instead of in the feature film section, where most pics are $9.99.
Though iTunes does sell some short films in its movies section for $1.99, they all come from established names such as Shorts Intl. and Sundance. Apple apparently wasn't ready to put direct-to-DVD action sports pics among the small number of shorts and Hollywood features in its movies section.
All independent producers can sell their content at HungryFlix.com. HungryFlix accepts all types of content including sports video and how-to video.
Apple's iTunes store on Tuesday started selling "That," a snowboarding action pic made for DVD by Forum Snowboards. This is the first time iTunes has sold video content that didn't come from an established network, studio or distributor.
Given iTunes' dominance in the nascent digital download market, that's sure to generate hordes of interest among independent film producers in all genres who don't have a distributor.
But in a sign that Apple isn't quite sure what to do with pics outside its strict categories, "That" and Studio411's content are being sold in iTunes TV section at $1.99, instead of in the feature film section, where most pics are $9.99.
Though iTunes does sell some short films in its movies section for $1.99, they all come from established names such as Shorts Intl. and Sundance. Apple apparently wasn't ready to put direct-to-DVD action sports pics among the small number of shorts and Hollywood features in its movies section.
All independent producers can sell their content at HungryFlix.com. HungryFlix accepts all types of content including sports video and how-to video.
Labels: indie film, iTunes, online distribution, online video, video distribution
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Special Effects on a buget
Are you making the next great action movie? Or maybe a Star Wars or Matrix fan film? Well, you are going to need some great special effects to help create the illusion of being in another world. Look no farther than these great effects packages to help you create your masterpiece.
If you are on no budget and just need some lightsaber effects here are two utilities to help.
First for the Mac is Naked Software's Crimson FX. Crimson FX is an effect generator for Quicktime movies and DV streams designed to make adding laser and light blade effects (and possibly other effects) as easy as possible. Crimson FX
For PC users, LSMaker will do the trick. This freeware app gives you tons of control over your lightsabers. The companion LSSound adds geniune sound effects. LSMaker & LSSound
Need lightsabers, gun muzzle flashes, explosions? FXHome.com has the software for you. EffectsLab creates stunning visual effects. Combine that with the fact that the package is both affordable and easy-to-use and you have a real winner. Check it out at EffectsLab
For the professional crowed, there is Adobe After Effects. AE is a wonderful package with tremendous third party and community support. But at $699-$999 make sure that you need the extra features before purchasing.
Once you have created your master piece be sure to sell it at the best movie downloads site on the web, HungryFlix.com.
If you are on no budget and just need some lightsaber effects here are two utilities to help.
First for the Mac is Naked Software's Crimson FX. Crimson FX is an effect generator for Quicktime movies and DV streams designed to make adding laser and light blade effects (and possibly other effects) as easy as possible. Crimson FX
For PC users, LSMaker will do the trick. This freeware app gives you tons of control over your lightsabers. The companion LSSound adds geniune sound effects. LSMaker & LSSound
Need lightsabers, gun muzzle flashes, explosions? FXHome.com has the software for you. EffectsLab creates stunning visual effects. Combine that with the fact that the package is both affordable and easy-to-use and you have a real winner. Check it out at EffectsLab
For the professional crowed, there is Adobe After Effects. AE is a wonderful package with tremendous third party and community support. But at $699-$999 make sure that you need the extra features before purchasing.
Once you have created your master piece be sure to sell it at the best movie downloads site on the web, HungryFlix.com.
Labels: effects, indie film, movies, software
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Movie Making on a Budget - Accessories
Part 3 of our movie making on a budget section.
We have the camera and the software...what's left?
Microphone. You'll need a good external mic. One that can be mounted on a boom pole or on the camera. My favorite is the Rode VideoMic or the Rode Stereo VideoMic. This is the perfect mic for home/hobby users with a mini-plug connector. The VideoMic comes with a shock mount included and delivers very nice sound for the $150.
Tripod. A tripod is a must. Without one your movies will look like amatuer video. Buy a good tripod and you'll only have to buy one once. Do not go for the $50 tripod you find at big box stores. Spend a bit more--say $175 for a nice Bogen/Manfrotto set of legs with a fluid head. The 3001 legs and 3130 fluid head is a great setup.
Tapes. It is important to use quality MiniDV tapes and to stick with one brand of tapes. I have used the Panasonic AY-DVM63PQ Professional tapes for years. Excellent quality and reliabiliy.
We have the camera and the software...what's left?
Microphone. You'll need a good external mic. One that can be mounted on a boom pole or on the camera. My favorite is the Rode VideoMic or the Rode Stereo VideoMic. This is the perfect mic for home/hobby users with a mini-plug connector. The VideoMic comes with a shock mount included and delivers very nice sound for the $150.
Tripod. A tripod is a must. Without one your movies will look like amatuer video. Buy a good tripod and you'll only have to buy one once. Do not go for the $50 tripod you find at big box stores. Spend a bit more--say $175 for a nice Bogen/Manfrotto set of legs with a fluid head. The 3001 legs and 3130 fluid head is a great setup.
Tapes. It is important to use quality MiniDV tapes and to stick with one brand of tapes. I have used the Panasonic AY-DVM63PQ Professional tapes for years. Excellent quality and reliabiliy.
Labels: camcorder, digital video, filmmaking, indie film
Monday, February 5, 2007
Movie making on a budget - Part 2
In Part 1 of Movie Making On a Budge we looked at cameras. Now let's take a look at video editing software.
Home Video editor: This is the person who just wants to edit home videos of birthdays and soccer games. Most consumer packages are affordable and more than powerful enough for their targeted user base. The trick is to find a package that is easy to use.
Pinnacle Studio 10 $99. Studio packs a ton of features under the hood. There is a very basic learning curve but for the most part the package is user-friendly. Past versions have suffered from crashes and compatibility issues with non-standard PCs. Includes DVD authorting.
Ulead VideoStudio $99. Ease of use makes this a great package. Very powerful, complete with DVD creation.
Sony Vegas MovieStudio + DVD. $89. Three easy steps to capture, edit and share. Focuses on ease of use and fun. Worth a look.
Apple iMovie HD ($79 as part of iLife suite). Mac users need to look no farther than iMovie. This great beginner package now offers HD support. Apple designed themes provide motion graphics for intros and lower-thirds that rival the most expensive tools in the market. Third party developers provide a series of plugins (at extra cost) to expand iMovies capabilities even further. DVD authoring included in iDVD, a separate iLife application.
Hobbyist: This person is taking things to the next level. Maybe creating DVDs for school events, sports, or weekend movie making.
Adobe Premiere Elements 3.0. $99. Premiere Elements is going to really put pressure on the consumer packages. It really brings the power of Premiere, a great application, down to consumer users. Sceneline feature makes video editing similar to slideshow creation. Includes DVD authoring.
Apple Final Cut Express HD $299. Not ready for the full power of Final Cut? FCE gives users nearly everything they could want/need. Soundtrack and LiveType are bundled. Excellent entry into the world of pro NLE systems.
Filmmaking/Video Producer: You know who you are...
Adobe Production Studio. $1299 - $1799 Adobe After Effects® 7.0 Professional, Adobe Premiere® Pro 2.0, Adobe Photoshop® CS2, Adobe Audition® 2.0, Adobe Encore® DVD 2.0, and Adobe Illustrator® CS2. What more could you need?
Apple Final Cut Studio. $1299. Final Cut Pro 5, Motion 2, Soundtrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro 4, Compressor, LiveType. Battling with Premiere to become the standard for DV and HDV editing.
Sony Vegas+DVD. $600. The Vegas+DVD Production Suite combines Vegas 7, DVD Architect 4, and Dolby Digital® AC-3 encoding software to offer an integrated environment for all phases of professional video, audio, DVD, and broadcast production.
Home Video editor: This is the person who just wants to edit home videos of birthdays and soccer games. Most consumer packages are affordable and more than powerful enough for their targeted user base. The trick is to find a package that is easy to use.
Pinnacle Studio 10 $99. Studio packs a ton of features under the hood. There is a very basic learning curve but for the most part the package is user-friendly. Past versions have suffered from crashes and compatibility issues with non-standard PCs. Includes DVD authorting.
Ulead VideoStudio $99. Ease of use makes this a great package. Very powerful, complete with DVD creation.
Sony Vegas MovieStudio + DVD. $89. Three easy steps to capture, edit and share. Focuses on ease of use and fun. Worth a look.
Apple iMovie HD ($79 as part of iLife suite). Mac users need to look no farther than iMovie. This great beginner package now offers HD support. Apple designed themes provide motion graphics for intros and lower-thirds that rival the most expensive tools in the market. Third party developers provide a series of plugins (at extra cost) to expand iMovies capabilities even further. DVD authoring included in iDVD, a separate iLife application.
Hobbyist: This person is taking things to the next level. Maybe creating DVDs for school events, sports, or weekend movie making.
Adobe Premiere Elements 3.0. $99. Premiere Elements is going to really put pressure on the consumer packages. It really brings the power of Premiere, a great application, down to consumer users. Sceneline feature makes video editing similar to slideshow creation. Includes DVD authoring.
Apple Final Cut Express HD $299. Not ready for the full power of Final Cut? FCE gives users nearly everything they could want/need. Soundtrack and LiveType are bundled. Excellent entry into the world of pro NLE systems.
Filmmaking/Video Producer: You know who you are...
Adobe Production Studio. $1299 - $1799 Adobe After Effects® 7.0 Professional, Adobe Premiere® Pro 2.0, Adobe Photoshop® CS2, Adobe Audition® 2.0, Adobe Encore® DVD 2.0, and Adobe Illustrator® CS2. What more could you need?
Apple Final Cut Studio. $1299. Final Cut Pro 5, Motion 2, Soundtrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro 4, Compressor, LiveType. Battling with Premiere to become the standard for DV and HDV editing.
Sony Vegas+DVD. $600. The Vegas+DVD Production Suite combines Vegas 7, DVD Architect 4, and Dolby Digital® AC-3 encoding software to offer an integrated environment for all phases of professional video, audio, DVD, and broadcast production.
Labels: adobe, apple, camcorder, equipment, filmmaking, final cut, ilife, imovie, indie film, NLE, sony vegas, video editing
Friday, February 2, 2007
Made a short film? Sell it online at HungryFlix.com
There are so many talented indie filmmakers out there...everyone trying to get noticed, get their big break. Well, in the meantime, why not get your film out there to as many people as possible? Hop over to HungryFlix and upload your movie. You set your own price, and you'll earn 60% on your sales.
Labels: hungryflix, indie film, short films, video distribution, web
Friday, January 26, 2007
Apple TV & slingbox - Bringing web video, IPTV and podcasts to the family room
We are living in an exciting time. As the Web 2.0 bubble expands and the popularity and acceptance of user-driven ( which is just another word for independent, btw) content increases, we are finally seeing "new and improved" ways of consuming this content. Streaming is still the most popular method of watching internet distributed content. But, with the introduction of the slingmedia slingbox and the Apple tv, we are begining to see the completion of the distribution channel from content creation to internet distribution to delivery in the family room.
I don't think the importance of this can be underestimated. Think back to 5 years ago...how much online video was distributed? What were the levels of quality? It is easy to see how far we have come. A parallel can be made to the software industry. It is now very rare to run off to the store to purchase software. Yes, major packages such as an OS upgrade, Office suite or design/production software are still delivered on physical media. But most small to medium sized software packages are purchased and distributed online. This trend has moved to the music industry with iTunes, Rhapsody and Napster. This is a huge shift that will also sweep up the video industry.
The audience for watching video on a computer is small. I doubt that anyone over 45 is even willing to try watching more than a 3 minute clip on a computer screen. We are just too programmed in our ways. Long form programs belong on a TV. Another important factor is comfort. Most people want to sit, back, relax and enjoy the show...that is hard to do in an office or den setting. The final issue is that TV viewing-especially for movies-is considered to be a group activity. Many people like to watch movies with family and friends, this is impossible to do when all huddled around the computer.
So, we have new exciting options available. While geeks have been pumping online content to media center PCs or hacked Xboxes for years, we are now moving into the land of the rest of us. The new devices promise plug-and-play simplicity and a "look mom, no wires" approach to grabbing content off the net or from other networked computers.
The abiity to watch independent content in the family room is a huge win for content creators. Anyone can grab a DV camera and make a movie. We've seen this through the past five years in the explosion of no-budget filmmaking. The hardest part has always been getting your movie seen. Now with the internet as the distribution channel we've eliminated the need for getting a "real" distribution deal. And now, that we can get into the family room it's time to grab the popcorn!
Hungry for content? http://www.hungryflix.com
Labels: apple tv, indie film, online video, short films, slingbox, video, video distribution
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