# Independent

I don’t think the big guys are really ever going to open their doors to true indie, low-budget film, no matter how many low-budget films win Oscars. So, we’ve just gotta do it ourselves.

... you need to do it because otherwise there will be an ache within you that will never find peace.

The edge goes to the ones who treat obstacles like puzzle pieces, not stop signs.

I just showed up and took over and started filming, whether it was the street or the highway, with four cop cars and a spray-painted Bentley.

Shooting on the side of the tallest free-standing mountain in the world—complete with five climate zones and zero power outlets? … piece of cake.

... a collective goal of putting your work out into the world becomes a purpose you all share, in some ways, similar to birthing a baby. Except twenty people made the baby.

The tyranny of choice aspect hit me again. Only 144 films left to see.

... the most effective use of the funds was to throw away the hope of making this really big thing in a small way and trust that if I captured the tone, world, and characters, that would be enough.

It's been all kinds of responses, but that's why I had that little pebble in my shoe—we don't talk about mental health as much as we can, or normalize it.

It’s scary, it’s dramatic, and it puts a lot of pressure on a campaign, but it also incentivizes people in a different way because they know you’ll lose everything.

"... we went this far, let's not leave anything unturned."

"Over time, I realized, you have to read between the lines."

From documentaries to commercials to feature films, Javier Solórzano Casarin takes us on a step-by-step retelling of how his love for filmmaking grew into a lifetime passion.

Someone, eventually, is going to take a risk on a show they don’t have to invest heavily into. Maybe one that’s already made?

I remember the intense emotionality of that day—there wasn't a dry eye in the room.