Available to rent or own now on all streaming platforms - https://linktr.ee/clonecops

🎬 Clone Cops Podcast: How We Made Clone Cops – Pre-Production & Casting

🔍 Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Clone Cops Podcast, the filmmakers Phillip Cordell (Co-writer/Actor), Danny Dones (Co-writer/Director), Charles Royce (VFX Supervisor/Producer), and Corey Allen (Cinematographer) dive deep into the logistics of bringing Clone Cops to life.

They cover:

• The budget breakdown – How Clone Cops became a SAG Ultra Low Budget film with a $300,000 cap and what that actually covered.

• Funding the film independently – The team shares how they self-funded the movie and secured additional investment to make it happen.

• Navigating the Tennessee Entertainment Commission Grant – The surprising process of applying for and receiving a $50,000 rebate from the state.

• How casting unfolded – From self-tapes and agency submissions to last-minute role changes, they discuss finding the perfect actors for each character.

• Choosing the right crew – Why it was important to pay people fairly while also assembling a team that was passionate about the project.

• Finding the perfect location – How an abandoned mental hospital became the ultimate set for Clone Cops, providing production value far beyond their budget.

• The importance of pre-production planning – From breaking down the script to sticking to a 10-hour day schedule, the team shares how they avoided indie film burnout.

🎤 Notable Quotes:

• “We put our life savings into an independent film. Could be the best or worst decision ever.” – Phillip Cordell

• “If you’re waiting for someone to hand you your filmmaking career, it might never happen.” – Danny Dones

• “We didn’t just want to make a movie—we wanted to market one, too.” – Corey Allen

• “Happy people turn out great work. That’s why we ran a tight but fair set.” – Charles Royce

📌 Key Takeaways for Filmmakers:

✅ How to budget wisely for a micro-budget film

✅ Why pre-production is crucial for avoiding disaster on set

✅ How to secure film grants and incentives in your state

✅ The casting process and what to look for in actor auditions

✅ How location scouting can make or break your film

✅ Why marketing should be planned from the start

🛠 Next Episode Preview:

Next time, the team explores “Designing the World of Clone Cops”, covering the film’s VFX, production design, and sci-fi aesthetic.

📢 Today’s Episode Sponsor:

Brought to you by Nefaricorp. Visit nefaricorp.com for more.

#CloneCops #IndieFilmmaking #SciFiComedy #FilmmakingPodcast #BehindTheScenes

🎙 Meet the Team:

• Corey Allen – Cinematographer

• Phillip Cordell – Co-writer, Actor, Producer

• Danny Dones – Co-writer, Director

• Charles Royce – Producer, VFX Supervisor

This podcast isn’t just for fans of the film—it’s also for aspiring filmmakers looking to learn from real-world experiences in indie film production. Expect candid discussions, valuable insights, and a whole lot of fun along the way.

📢 Subscribe now and follow our journey!

➡️ Stay tuned for upcoming episodes as we break down the making of Clone Cops!

Clone Cops is available now on all streaming platforms! https://linktr.ee/clonecops

Pre-Production and Casting