IFH 880: Why Indie Filmmakers Must STOP Waiting for Hollywood with Josh Forbes

What happens when you direct one of the biggest music videos of the year, earn an MTV Video Music Award nomination, and discover you still have to pay hundreds of dollars just to attend the ceremony? In this episode of Indie Film Hustle, filmmaker and music video director Josh Forbes reveals the surprising reality behind creative success in the entertainment industry. Known for his work on Walk the Moon's Shut Up and Dance, Sara Bareilles' Love Song, and the horror feature Contracted: Phase II, Josh shares how he went from making music videos for independent bands to directing major artists and feature films. He takes us behind the scenes of his VMA nomination, explains why he launched a crowdfunding campaign to attend the awards, and discusses the financial pressures that working directors face even when their projects attract millions of viewers.Josh also shares how he built his career by continually creating work, collaborating with musicians, and turning small opportunities into bigger projects. We explore the creative process behind Shut Up and Dance, the experience of directing extreme body horror in Contracted: Phase II, why horror audiences are among the most passionate in independent cinema, and how crowdfunding can help filmmakers build relationships with their audiences. From directing actors and navigating film festivals to protecting creative control and finding support within filmmaking communities, this conversation reveals the realities of making a living as an independent artist. If you're a filmmaker, music video director, or creative professional trying to break into the industry without losing your passion, Josh's journey is a reminder that recognition and financial security are two very different things.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.