Chicano Hollywood Producers Mastermind Course

Topics

Weeks 1-7: Zoom Classes
Schedule: Thursdays, 2 hours per session. 6PM-8PM (PST)

Week 1: Setting the Foundation

Thursday March 13th

Topic: Introduction to Producing

• Overview of the producer's role in filmmaking.
• Legal structures: LLCs vs. Sole Proprietorships for production companies.
• Key considerations when forming a legal entity.

Topic: Legal Framework for Micro-Budget Productions

• Contracts and agreements: crew, cast, and vendors.
• Basics of intellectual property rights and copyright.
• Overview of legal paperwork for under $200K productions.
   
  Week 2: Developing Your Project

Thursday March 20th

Topic: Writing and Development

• Structuring compelling stories for independent films.
• Collaboration with screenwriters.
• Understanding script breakdowns for budgeting.

Topic: Budgeting and Payroll

• Preparing a micro-budget: essential line items.
• Tools and software for budgeting.
• Managing payroll and understanding tax incentives.
   
  Week 3: Assembling the Team

Thursday March 27th

Topic: Working with Talent and Crew

• Casting: finding and securing talent for your project.
• Navigating relationships with casting directors.
• Working with SAG-AFTRA for union actors.

Topic: Collaborating with Key Personnel

• Working with a director: defining creative and logistical roles.
• Collaborating with a line producer: turning creative visions into actionable plans.
• Managing a 1st Assistant Director (1st AD): creating shooting schedules, ensuring on-set organization, and maintaining production flow.
• Overseeing department heads: cinematography, production design, sound, and other key roles.
• Building a cohesive team that aligns with the project’s vision and budget.

 
Week 4: Securing Funding

Thursday April 6th

Topic: Crowdfunding & Crowd Equity Fundraising

• Platforms to use and how to launch campaigns.
• Creating compelling pitch materials.
• Engaging and retaining investor interest.

Topic: Building Investor Relationships

• Crafting your pitch to potential investors.
• Developing investment proposals and budgets.
• Legal and ethical considerations.
   
  Week 5: Marketing and Partnerships

Thursday April 13th

Topic: Small Business Partnerships & Product Placement

• Collaborating with local businesses for funding and sponsorships.
• Leveraging product placement for additional revenue.
• Negotiating win-win partnerships.

Topic: Distribution Strategies

• Overview of distribution channels for micro-budget films.
• Self-distribution vs. traditional distribution.
• Leveraging film festivals for exposure.
   
  Week 6: Pre-Production Essentials

Thursday April 20th

Topic: Working with Production Insurance

• Understanding the types of production insurance: general liability, workers' compensation, and Errors and Omissions (E&O).
• Why E&O insurance is critical: protecting against legal claims related to copyright, contracts, and content.
• Key considerations when selecting insurance providers.

Topic: Preparing for Production and On-Set Safety

• When to hire a set medic: projects with stunt work, hazardous conditions, or extensive cast and crew.
• Risk management: ensuring safety protocols are in place.
• Finalizing schedules and budgets.
   
  Week 7: Real-World Production Scenarios

Thursday April 27th

Topic: Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Problem-solving on set.
• Managing creative and logistical challenges.

Topic: Preparing for the Final Workshop

• Reviewing pitch decks and campaign materials.
• Practicing investor and product placement pitches.
   
  Week 8: Two-Day Interactive Workshop

May 3rd and 4th

Day 1: Building Partnerships and Networking

• Session 1: Small Business Product Placement Preparation
  Practice and refine pitches with feedback from instructors.
  Workshop partnership proposals for small businesses.
• Session 2: Crowd Equity Campaign Setup
  Set up and finalize campaigns on platforms like Seed&Spark.
  Craft campaign messaging and visuals.
• Session 3: Q/A and Work with Coaches 

Evening Event: Networking Mixer
Meet potential cast, crew, and creative collaborators.
Build connections to assemble your production team.

Day 2: Real Pitches to Businesses and Investors

• Session 1: Q/A and Work with Coaches
• Session 2: Pitching to Small Businesses
  Present product placement proposals to real small business representatives.
  Receive live feedback and explore partnership opportunities.
• Session 3: Investor Pitches
  Present project pitches to potential investors.
  Gain valuable insights and possibly secure funding.

Conclusion: Presentation of Certificates,feedback from industry professionals and Networking.

 
Program Deliverables
A fully developed pitch deck for investors and small businesses.

A live crowdfunding campaign ready for launch.

Real-world experience pitching to small businesses and investors.

Connections with potential cast, crew, and industry collaborators.

Knowledge of securing and managing production insurance, including E&O.

Strategies for working with directors, line producers, 1st ADs, and department heads.

This program equips participants with the tools, confidence, and network to launch their first micro-budget film or TV project successfully.