Why This ‘Last Showgirl’ Producer Thinks Indie Cinema Still Has Legs
In this episode of No Film School, host GG Hawkins sits down with Robert Schwartzman, producer of The Last Showgirl and co-founder of Utopia, to discuss the evolving landscape of independent cinema. As a filmmaker, distributor, and problem solver, Robert shares insights on how indie filmmakers can take control of their distribution, why the industry is shifting toward self-releasing, and what’s next for Utopia.In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Robert Schwartzman discuss:The evolving landscape of indie film distribution and the role of technology in direct-to-audience releasesHow Utopia is working to eliminate middlemen and empower filmmakersThe importance of theatrical releases for indie films, despite industry shiftsThe inspiration behind The Last Showgirl and why Las Vegas was the perfect settingHow finding creative solutions—from locations to costumes—can elevate a low-budget filmWhy international filmmakers have a competitive edge in today’s marketSubscribe to the No Film School Podcast on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogleGet your question answered on the podcast by emailing podcast@nofilmschool.com Listen to more episodes of the No Film School podcast right here: This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by GG Hawkins.


In this episode of No Film School, host GG Hawkins sits down with Robert Schwartzman, producer of The Last Showgirl and co-founder of Utopia, to discuss the evolving landscape of independent cinema. As a filmmaker, distributor, and problem solver, Robert shares insights on how indie filmmakers can take control of their distribution, why the industry is shifting toward self-releasing, and what’s next for Utopia.
In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Robert Schwartzman discuss:
- The evolving landscape of indie film distribution and the role of technology in direct-to-audience releases
- How Utopia is working to eliminate middlemen and empower filmmakers
- The importance of theatrical releases for indie films, despite industry shifts
- The inspiration behind The Last Showgirl and why Las Vegas was the perfect setting
- How finding creative solutions—from locations to costumes—can elevate a low-budget film
- Why international filmmakers have a competitive edge in today’s market
Subscribe to the No Film School Podcast on:
Get your question answered on the podcast by emailing podcast@nofilmschool.com
Listen to more episodes of the No Film School podcast right here:
This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by GG Hawkins.