About Frugal Films

Frugal Films is an independent publication launched in December 2018 by Brendan O'Brien (X @btko). His focus is removing as many barriers as possible for filmmakers around the world. He wants you to make your movies no matter what. This is why he started the Frugal Films Challenge.

Frugal Films Challenge

The Frugal Films Challenge is our way of pushing filmmakers of all levels to get out there and make movies! Anywhere, any time, any budget. What makes our challenge different is we supply the script.

In our experience, many young or new filmmakers can get stuck not knowing what to make a movie about. We want you to forget about that particular excuse and get out there creating. With a story in-hand, you can get going right away!

All you need is what ever camera you have or can borrow (even a mobile phone) and, ideally, a few people to help. Each team gets the same script. It's a great way to test your vision and skills against other teams around the world.

Signing up to Frugal Films

Signing up to the Frugal Films community is free and only requires a valid email address. By signing up you get access to our articles and newsletters on frugal and low-budget filmmaking as well as a discount on the entry fee of the challenges.

Fresh content, delivered

We also try to help out by sending occasional newsletters and articles full of low-budget filmmaking tips. Stay up to date with new content sent straight to your inbox! No more worrying about whether you missed something because of a pesky algorithm or news feed.

Meet people like you

Joining Frugal Films also means you join a community of other filmmakers who share the same interests and are willing to fight to get their films made!