ReelBob: ‘Movie Money Confidential’ ★★

By Bob Bloom

“Movie Money Confidential” is more of a how-to documentary for prospective moviemakers than a film that will entertain audiences.

And while many aspects of the movie are interesting, it is basically dry — a series of talking heads explaining how to finance a movie and who to approach to raise funding for a project.

I fail to see how general audiences who mostly want to watch movies will find this attractive.

Now, film school and wanna-be filmmakers can receive some helpful advice from the movie. Regular moviegoers will probably find it dry.

Even with the addition of Burt Reynolds as an interviewee, “Movie Money Confidential” plays like a prolonged infomercial, offering tips and advice for prospective moviemakers on how to get a movie made. The essence of this 101-minute movie — be persistent and network like crazy.

Oh, and also don’t be discouraged and, most importantly, make sure your idea is original.

Money, of course, is of primary interest in the movie. And various people offer ways to raise it, what to say to prospective investors and, what not to say.

Be forthright because, as one person says, people will want to give you money, especially if you talk directly to them.

Another point the movie makes is that — especially for low-budget, independent films — the majority of funding comes from family, friends and acquaintances. Even people you meet at social occasions can become potential investors.

And while all this may be fascinating, if you are not inclined to be the next David O. Selznick, George Lucas or Steven Spielberg, “Movie Money Confidential” is a bit of a snoozer.

This is a niche movie aimed at a specific audience who will appreciate the tips offered by director Rick Pamplin, film finance consultant Louise Levison, who helped raise the funding for “The Blair Witch Project,” and others.

The film includes a couple of question-and-answer panels in which basic information is offered that if you are serious about trying to make a movie, you should already know.

“Movie Money Confidential” needs some trimming to avoid some repetition and more details about raising capital. Most of what it delivers is basic and common-sense ideas.

And you don’t need an entire movie to tell you those.

I am a founding member of the Indiana Film Journalists Association. I review movies, 4K UHD, Blu-rays and DVDs for ReelBob (ReelBob.com), The Film Yap and other print and online publications. I can be reached by email at bobbloomjc@gmail.com. You also can follow me on Twitter @ReelBobBloom and on Facebook at ReelBob.com or the Indiana Film Journalists Association. My movie reviews also can be found at Rotten Tomatoes: www.rottentomatoes.com.

MOVIE MONEY CONFIDENTIAL
2 stars out of 4
Not rated