Happy Thursday, Creative Army!

The countdown is on — next week, I’ll be heading to The American Film Market (AFM), and I can’t wait to reconnect with so many of you in Los Angeles.

Every year, AFM brings together thousands of creatives from across the globe — filmmakers, producers, writers, executives, and financiers — all there for one reason: to make things happen. As the official education partner of The American Film Market, Stage 32 is proud to continue empowering filmmakers, producers, and storytellers worldwide. There’s an incredible buzz that fills the air the minute you walk in. Deals are being made, partnerships are forming, and dreams are moving from concept to reality.

If you’re attending this year, I want to make sure you’re ready to not only show up but stand out.

Join Me Live at AFM!

I’m honored to be speaking on this year’s panel:

Low Budget, Big Vision: Strategies for Independent Filmmakers

Saturday, November 15th | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Panelists:

• Richard “RB” Botto – CEO, Stage 32
• Chris Gore – Publisher, Film Threat
• Tom Malloy – Producer & President, Glass House Distribution
• Paul Bales – COO, The Asylum
• Martine Melloul – Producer, Kali Pictures

If you’re an indie filmmaker navigating how to bring your story to life with limited resources, this is the session for you. We’ll be digging into practical strategies, creative problem-solving, and the kind of out-of-the-box thinking that defines successful independent filmmaking today.

Mark it on your schedule — this one’s a must-attend.

My Advice for AFM Attendees

If this is your first time attending AFM, here’s my biggest piece of advice:

Be prepared. Do the work. Have a plan.

I’ve been attending AFM for over a decade, and every year I see the same thing: people wandering around without a clear strategy, handing out cards or showing trailers off their phones. They’re passionate, but they’re not focused. And that lack of focus can cost you opportunities.

When you walk into AFM, know why you’re there.

Know who you want to meet.

Know what you’re looking to accomplish.

You don’t need a hundred meetings. You need the right ones.

The people you’re trying to meet are busy too; they have their own schedules, their own goals, their own deadlines. So when they ask you, “What brings you to AFM?” you should be able to answer it in one line, a logline for your goal.

Something clear, confident, and specific that tells them exactly what you’re there to do. That’s how you show people you’ve got your act together. That’s how you make them remember you.

Stay Professional, Stay Human

You also don’t want to come across as chaotic or desperate. This industry thrives on collaboration and trust, and people want to work with those who bring good energy to the table.

So yes, be serious about your work, but also have fun.

AFM isn’t just a marketplace, it’s a celebration of independent film.

Talk to people. Ask them what they’re working on. Be genuinely curious. The most valuable connections I’ve ever made didn’t happen in a boardroom — they happened on the sidewalk outside, over coffee, at a bar, or in line for a screening.

The magic happens when you show up prepared, open, and ready to connect.

How to Work The American Film Market 2025 — Free Webinar

If you’re attending AFM for the first time (or even the fifth), Stage 32 has you covered.

We’re the official education partner of AFM, and we’ve put together an exclusive on-demand webinar with top industry leaders who break down everything you need to know before you hit the market floor.

Click here to watch it for FREE now!

You’ll hear directly from:

• Jean Prewitt – President & CEO, Independent Film & Television Alliance (Producer of AFM)
• Clay Epstein – President, Film Mode Entertainment; former IFTA Chair
• Richard “RB” Botto – Founder & CEO, Stage 32

Whether you’re seeking financing, shopping a script, or expanding your professional network, this session will help you navigate AFM like a pro and make your time there count.

Final Words of Encouragement

Look, I know how overwhelming these markets can feel. But here’s the truth: you belong in the room.

Every relationship, every deal, every opportunity starts with one conversation — one introduction — one brick laid down at a time.

So get your strategy together, put your best energy forward, and go build those connections brick by brick.

I can’t wait to see you at AFM, Creative Army. If you see me walking the halls, don’t hesitate to stop me and say hello. Let’s connect, let’s talk, and let’s keep building this incredible, creative community together.

Cheers,

RB

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