250000 – 500000

The following films are independent films and documentaries made for less than $500,000 (range from $250,000 to $500,000). Each of the films in this category have achieved some level of success. Many of the films have been screened at prestigious film festivals such at Cannes, Toronto or Sundance, and others have found considerable commercial success.

THE ART OF TRAVEL
Budget: $300,000
Trailer: Watch the Art of Travel Trailer
Synopsis: The Art of Travel is an independent feature film shot by Tom Whelan for a mere $300,000. Lights Film School had the opportunity to speak with Tom about his this film from both a creative and distribution standpoint. You can read the interview and watch the trailer here.

NAPOLEON DYNAMITE
Budget: $400,000
Trailer: Watch Napoleon Dynamite Trailer
Synopsis: Napoleon Dynamite was directed by Jared Hess and Jerusha Hess in 2004. The film was shot on the low budget of $400,000 and went on to gross (domestically) 44.5 million dollars.

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