From Actor to Festival Director: How Indie Films Really Get Seen w/ Sibyl Santiago

The Reality of Indie Film Distribution (Tubi, Plex & Streaming)

How do indie filmmakers actually survive in 2026? Tube E Movie filmmaker Will Adams joins Beyond The Take to break down indie film distribution, streaming platforms like Tubi and Plex, and the reality of making movies outside the studio system. We discuss: • How indie films make money • Tubi, Plex & FilmHub distribution • Why film festivals aren’t enough • Fast, low-budget filmmaking strategies • Marketing movies in today’s industry If you’re serious about filmmaking or creating your own opportunities — this episode is for you.

Why Acting Success Can Come Later (And How to Stay Ready) | Bonnie Rose

Does acting success come later in your career? Marc Chouen sits down with Bonnie Rose to talk about longevity, staying present in auditions, and building momentum at any stage. From booking her first major role with Sidney Lumet [chatgpt://generic-entity?number=0] to working alongside Rose Byrne [chatgpt://generic-entity?number=1] and Octavia Spencer [chatgpt://generic-entity?number=2], Bonnie explains why her “third act” may be her best yet. • Staying present on set • Navigating different career stages • Building momentum later in life If you’re serious about a long-term acting career — this is for you.

Are Actors Actually Protected? SAG, AI & Intimacy Coordinators Explained

What’s really happening behind SAG-AFTRA negotiations — and are actors actually protected on set? Marc Chouen sits down with intimacy coordinator and strike captain Kristen Elizabeth to break down actor safety, union negotiations, and the future of the industry. They discuss: • SAG negotiations & what actors aren’t told • The reality of intimacy coordinators • AI, digital likeness, and actor rights • On-set safety and power dynamics If you’re an actor trying to understand how the industry really works, then this episode is for you. Follow Beyond The Take for more industry insights.

How to Make an Indie Film With No Investors (Screenwriter Marc Cubelli Explains)

What does it actually take to make an independent film without investors or studio backing? Screenwriter and actor Marc Cubelli breaks down how he wrote, produced, and starred in his latest indie feature Shooting Sid — built entirely on creative control and guerrilla filmmaking. We discuss: • Self-financing and DIY production • Writing yourself into the lead role • 90s indie film influences • Festival strategy and distribution • Turning rejection into momentum If you’re a filmmaker or actor tired of waiting for permission, this episode is for you.

From Actor to Festival Director: How Indie Films Really Get Seen w/ Sibyl Santiago

What does it really take for an independent film to break through? In this episode of Beyond the Take, Marc Chouen sits down with filmmaker, producer, and Executive Director of the SoHo International Film Festival, Sibyl Santiago, for a deep dive into how the indie film world actually works. Sibyl shares her journey from child actor to producer to festival leader, the challenges she faced as an Asian American actress, and how she built a career by creating her own opportunities. She breaks down what festivals are really looking for, how filmmakers should approach submissions, and why community-driven festivals matter more than ever. They also talk about: • How filmmakers can stand out in a crowded festival landscape • What programmers look for when watching thousands of submissions • Why prestige doesn’t always equal opportunity • How streaming is reshaping indie distribution • Building sustainable careers outside the studio system Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, producer, or just trying to break into the industry, this episode is packed with real-world insight you won’t hear in film school. 🎬 If you’re serious about independent film, festivals, and long-term career growth — this one’s for you.