At OPPRIME.tv, we give every filmmaker a free consultation before they stream with us, spending about 30 to 45 minutes helping them get started. Over the last 10 years, we’ve grown to stream 1,000 films, and I’ve personally spoken with over 5,000 independent filmmakers.

 

For a long time, I struggled to explain the difference between Hollywood and indie film economics. I’d use too many words, and nothing quite captured the comparison. Hollywood and indie films are like apples and oranges—tough to compare directly.

 

Back in 2015, many filmmakers saw themselves purely as artists, not businesspeople. They shied away from promoting themselves, thinking they’d make money simply by uploading their films. Unfortunately, many of them left the industry after failing to succeed.

 

By 2025, things have changed. Filmmakers today grew up with social media, knowing how to promote themselves. They’re better equipped to thrive in the industry.

 

Then, one day, everything clicked during a conversation with a 22-year-old filmmaker named Sarah. As I explained indie film economics, she said, “I get it! In Hollywood, filmmakers get paid before the movie comes out. But in the indie world, it’s like podcasting. Filmmakers don’t get paid upfront; they make money from views, just like podcasters. OPPRIME.tv is like Spotify for filmmakers—indie filmmakers must self-promote and build an audience, just like podcasters.”

 

Sarah’s analogy made it crystal clear. Once filmmakers understand this, they stop making common mistakes and get on the right track. Whether it’s making money directly through OPPRIME.tv’s Referral Link or using their films to promote their careers and get hired, this knowledge saves them time and confusion, setting them up for success.