When independent filmmaker Cutter Hodierne sought funding for his cryptocurrency thriller, "Cold Wallet," he encountered numerous obstacles in Hollywood's traditional financing model: investor hesitation, industry uncertainty, and a system that favors large studios. "It's hard to break through in the centralized Hollywood model," he said. "You never know if your script is being overlooked, or if your work is truly valued."
To overcome these challenges, Hodierne turned to Film3, a decentralized film industry that utilizes blockchain technology, community voting, and cryptocurrency for film financing, bypassing traditional studios, agents, and intermediaries. He uploaded a 10-minute clip of "Cold Wallet" to Decentralized Pictures, where community members (including producers, writers, investors, and film enthusiasts) reviewed it, earning the platform's token, $FILM, as compensation. Users can wager $FILM on projects they like, pay others to review their work, or purchase tickets to cover application fees.
"Cold Wallet" Receives Positive Reviews
After reviewing the film, renowned director Steve Soderbergh invested in "Cold Wallet," and Decentralized Pictures provided a grant to complete production. The film, now presented as "Steven Soderbergh Presents," has been released in select theaters and is available for rent or purchase on Apple and Amazon Prime Video, garnering positive reviews. "What's most exciting is that audiences can rent and buy the film on-chain using cryptocurrency," Hodierne said.
Over 60 Films and TV Shows in Production
Decentralized Pictures and Gala Films are leading studios in the Film3 movement, with over 60 films and TV shows currently in production. Roman Coppola, co-founder of Decentralized Pictures, stated, "We are building the studio of the future, emphasizing community involvement and communication." He highlighted the importance of decentralized financing, believing it supports filmmakers with unique voices and stories, helping them break free from traditional industry hierarchies.
Stacy Spikes, co-founder of MoviePass, pointed out that decentralized film financing (DeFiFi) represents a shift in film funding. While distribution companies remain essential, smart contracts enable backend participation. In 2024, actress Mena Suvari received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for her role in the sci-fi series "RZR," co-produced by Exertion3 Films and Gala Film, demonstrating Film3's success.
Spikes believes that Web3 is highly beneficial for community development, especially for Black and Brown communities and genre films, while also boosting investor confidence. Hodierne also emphasized that the Film3 model allows revenue to directly benefit filmmakers and Decentralized Pictures, promoting independent artists. He concluded, "Hollywood is centralized and volatile. The rise of Film3 is crucial, especially as streaming platforms reduce payments to artists. This is an exciting shift for the film industry, and for crypto thrillers like 'Cold Wallet.'"
