Mastering Indie Film Budgets: Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Approaches

Indie Filmmaking: Truth & Reality · May 14, 2026 · 31m

Jeff Deverett dives deep into the essential topic of budgeting for your indie feature film. Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or just starting out, understanding how to create a comprehensive and accurate budget is crucial for the success of your project.

Jeff breaks down the two primary methods of budgeting: top-down budgeting and bottom-up budgeting. He explains the Hollywood way of budgeting, starting with a detailed script breakdown and moving through various expense categories, including above-the-line and below-the-line costs. You'll learn how to estimate shooting days, manage crew…