For proof that money doesn’t make the man–or in this case, the film–look no further than these masterpieces created with plenty of creativity–and without much money.Following: Before Christopher Nolan was renowned for his stylish and intricate interpretations of Batman, he created this black and white thriller. The film is about a man who finds himself drawn into a world of crime by simply following people around London. A simple technique and a smart script make this film a low-budget masterpiece.

El Mariarchi: Yet another thriller, Robert Rodriguez’s independent movie is one of the most famous low-budget films of all time. With only $7,000 and nearly every scene shot in a single take, this opus opened the door for films like Once Upon a Time in Mexico and Desperado.

Napoleon Dynamite: Who could ever forget dorky liger-expert Napoleon Dynamite, his faithful sidekick Pedro and the rest of the cast of this sleeper comedy hit? This film, which grossed over 100 times its own budget, launched John Heder’s acting career.

Clerks: A cult following of this film that exists to this day proves the success of Kevin Smith’s offbeat dark comedy about two slacker clerks and a day in their lives. Nearly completed in a single location and shot in black and white, it’s yet one more example in a long series of successful low-budget, simple but effective films.

Filmmakers, like their other fellow artists, are also required to keep a mound of paperwork. Unfortunately, it’s often a lot more than the poet or concert pianist must keep.
Thankfully, there are resources out there that provide not only the know-how of such things, but also absolutely free copies of them to use.

Dependent Films is one such resource. In just one location, it lists just about everything you need to keep up with your paper pile, including the following:

Script Formatting: Don’t pay hundreds of dollars for fancy programs when you can get iScript, Scriptmaker and other programs for free.

Storyboard Tools: From widescreen to standard format to other variations, they’re all here for your convenience.

Logs, Equipment, and Other Forms: Call sheets, contact sheets, location scouting and release forms, editing logs, production reports, budget proposals… all of these forms and more can be downloaded and used for your own production.

Miscellaneous Forms: Sample materials, such as performer releases, compensation contracts, and script agreements, will come in handy if you’re not yet familiar with these. They will also help you look more professional and develop your skills. Film journal, budget, equipment list and other sheets will also help you keep organized.

Be sure to bookmark Dependent Films–you’ll definitely come back to it as you work on your filmmaking career.

That said, you can still film on a great location for cheap–even for free. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you set out on finding your perfect location.

Use every resource you’ve got. Remember family, friends, coworkers and general acquaintances. Chances are someone has that old attic, barn or pond you need for a scene.

Be sure to get a permit if you need one. If you’re in an anonymous location–in the woods or in your own home–you likely won’t need one; however, you will probably need permission to film any street sign, home other than your own, corner store, etc.

Respect the location. Clean up after using it, and don’t leave anything behind.

Know the area. This will help you in knowing how to use the land as well as make a better film, rather than spending your time acquainting yourself with the location.

Ask your state film commission for help. They may help you out for free.

Go glamorous. Just because you don’t have big bucks doesn’t mean that you can’t have a fine location for your glitzy romantic comedy. Be creative and find a nice place near you, or invest in some thrift store finds and create your own location.

See about getting film insurance. That way, if someone gets injured on the set you know you’ll be protected from getting sued.

That said, you will need funding somehow; you can’t get everything you need out of thin air. (Of course, you can get most of the things you need cheaply if you are creative. See all of our previous posts for ideas.)

Here are some good ways to get funding for your movie.

Enter contests. Many companies and networks hold contests every year for new directors. Prizes often include money to make your own film. The only drawback is that you often have to have a short film to begin with to enter.

Ask for help. If you have a rich uncle, chances are you’ve already asked him. (If you haven’t, what’s stopping you?) That said, you could always ask friends and family to donate–every little bit helps, as they say–or even hold a small fundraiser for your movie.

Get a sponsor. If you know any organizations or businesses that might offer support, be sure to hit them up.

Apply for a loan. If you have good credit and no big bills, you might be able to get as much as you need.

Make a website. Not only will you spread the word about your film, you can also set up ways for people to donate money to your project–or even host ads that will pay you for hosting them.

Apply for a grant. You can do this through school and various organizations. Or, you could apply for a fellowship.