'Independent film' is a tricky term. Many books have been written that attempt to define the term and there are numerous contradictions and things to consider before labelling a film 'independent'. So what makes a film independent, then? Is it the style? Is it the content? Is it how the film is funded? All on these play a role, sure, but independent film has as much to do with spirit as it does with any of these things. Boiling it down, independent films are those films produced outside of a major studio. Many are subsequently bought and distributed by those usually in a limited, but sometimes in a wide, release. Buying and releasing an independent film is a gamble, regardless of how little the film initially cost. After factoring in the money needed to finish and then advertise the films, costs begin to rise. Many films deal with subject matter or have scenes in them that would upset or turn off the regular cinema-going audience. They are undoubtedly influential though, and the best indies usually find bits and pieces of them in other major films, or end up being remade in some form or fashion by the studios. Independent films routinely cost very little but give a lot back, helping to inspire future independent film-makers in the process.
