​

When I first started making films, I thought it was all about the story.

A well-crafted plot, interesting characters, a clever twist, that’s what I focused on.

But over time, I've realized something crucial: it’s not just the story that matters—it’s who is telling it, and even more importantly, why they’re telling it.

Your Why is Your Power

As an independent filmmaker, your why is your most powerful asset. It's what makes your movie resonate.

As Simon Sinek says, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” And in filmmaking, this is everything. Audiences connect with your film when they understand the why behind it—your personal story, beliefs, and worldview.

In 13 Miles, it wasn’t just a film about athletes competing in a triathlon. For me, triathlon became a path to transformation. For Helena, volunteering at endurance events was about staying connected to something larger than herself. These personal experiences shaped the film’s themes of renewal and perseverance.

We let the film reflect those experiences authentically, and our audience connected to the why behind the movie.

They saw a bit of us in the story, just as they saw a bit of themselves.

The Unique Why Behind The Quiet Canadians

​The Quiet Canadians is a fun spy thriller. But beneath the espionage, there’s a deeper exploration.

It’s a story about trust, loyalty, and what it means to be Canadian in today’s world.

Our why? We’re digging into Canadian identity—our institutions, our values, and how we navigate complex power structures.

For us, this film is a reflection on what it means to belong to this country. The spy genre allows us to tell a high-stakes story, but it also lets us explore deeper themes about Canada’s evolving identity.

Be Honest About Your Challenges and Struggles

Another key to sharing your why? Be transparent about your challenges.

Filmmaking is messy. Being open about that struggle builds trust with your audience. People don’t just want the finished product—they want the story behind it.

In 13 Miles, we had budget limitations and production delays. Instead of hiding them, we embraced them as part of the journey. Sharing those challenges didn’t push people away—it made them root for us more.

With The Quiet Canadians, we’re being equally transparent. We’re open about the challenges we’re facing—whether it’s finding the right locations or managing a tight budget. When your audience sees these struggles, they feel like they’re part of the process. They become invested in the journey, not just the outcome.

How to Include Your Why: Actionable Steps

Want to make your why clear without preaching? Here’s how:

• Share Your Process and Worldview

Let your audience in on your creative process. For The Quiet Canadians, we’re being open about how our exploration of Canadian identity is shaping the film. Whether it’s through behind-the-scenes content or social media posts, we’re showing how our why influences every choice.

• Be Transparent About Challenges

Don’t hide the struggles. When you show your struggles, you make your journey relatable. For The Quiet Canadians, we’re being honest about our production challenges.

• Lead with Curiosity

Invite your audience to explore your why without telling them what to think. Your why should come through as an invitation to reflect, not a command to agree.

• See Yourself as a Character in Your Story

You, as the filmmaker, are part of the narrative. People aren’t just watching your movie—they’re following you. With The Quiet Canadians, we’re inviting people to see the world through our eyes.

Yes, it’s a spy thriller, but it’s also a reflection on Canadian identity, our values, and our institutions. We’re asking the audience to reflect on what it means to navigate the grey areas of loyalty and trust in today’s world.

The why behind this film is more than entertainment—it’s our perspective on the country we live in and what we believe makes it unique.

The Bottom Line: Let Your Why Shine

Your why is what sets your film apart. It’s what makes it more than just a story—it makes it your story.

But here’s the key: don’t preach. Be curious. Let your audience see the world through your eyes.

You, the filmmaker, are as much a character as the people on screen. When your audience understands your why, they’re not just following the fictional characters—they’re following you.

That’s your why, and it’s what will make your film stand out.

Missing anything that you want to see? Let me know.

Cheers,

Anthony (He/Him)

P.S. Interested in being a part of my exclusive beta group for v.2 of my Independent Film Producer's course. It's being renamed "Scratch to Screen: The No-Stress Indie Film Roadmap!" It will have a step by step weekly guide to making a first feature (or a micro-budget feature) in 1 year for a budget range of $40k-$250k WITHOUT needing outside investors.
​
In exchange for early access and a 75% discount, you’ll help shape this course with your feedback. As a bonus, you’ll get lifetime access to the full course and future updates. Beta-launch will commence October 2, 2024. Reply to this email if you are interested in participating.

P.P.S. I have been doing one-on-one coaching for filmmakers for the past 6 months. Helping indie filmmakers get unstuck or working with them one on one to take steps forward on a project. Check this link if you're interested or reply if you have any questions.​
​​
This newsletter was written for you on the unceded xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish, BC) and Tsleil-Waututh (Vancouver, BC) territories.
​​
"13 Miles" a Telefilm grant recipient, is now available to watch!

"The Quiet Canadians", a feature movie about skilled Canadian operatives who are trained in the elimination of local and foreign targets, is in development. Click here for more information​

"Xing'er: Origins", a feature film about a family's fight for survival against a deadly sect of assassins, is in development. Click here to join the mailing list for updates.​

Unfrayed, A Western Short Film -A bloodied Mei stumbles into Betty's campfire and discovers not only sanctuary but also, an ally. Click here to find out more.​

Pickled Rabbit Short Film - Sharon makes a desperate attempt to earn her dying mom's love. There's a cult, a foreign god... and maybe a monster transformation. Click here to find out more.​
​