Understanding the Mechanics of Guerilla Filmmaking

Any movie can adopt the guerilla filmmaking approach. This term isn’t tied to a specific genre, budget, or directing style. The defining feature of guerilla films is that they are filmed in public spaces without obtaining formal permissions.

The word 'guerilla' often evokes images of defiance against authority and tradition. Unlike its military counterpart, guerilla filmmaking is a calculated yet subtly rebellious approach, often driven by necessity. This method is frequently chosen because permit expenses can quickly deplete the limited budgets of independent films. Even high-budget productions sometimes resort to guerilla-style filming for scenes where securing permissions proves too cumbersome.

'More films than you might expect include at least some guerilla-shot elements,' says Noam Kroll, an award-winning filmmaker based in Los Angeles and owner of the post-production studio Creative Rebellion. He highlights that subway scenes in 'Black Swan' were filmed without permits, though the rest of the movie followed standard procedures. 'When I refer to a guerilla film, I mean a project where the entire production was shot in this manner.'

Often referred to as 'run and gun' filmmaking, many guerilla filmmakers skip permits (and, let's be honest, bypass the law) in favor of a 'shoot first, ask questions later' strategy. The cast, crew, and equipment are typically kept to a minimum to avoid detection by security. In fact, you might pass by a guerilla film shoot without even noticing, provided it’s executed with enough stealth. Productions that fail to stay under the radar are quickly shut down, leading to embarrassment and significant disruptions to the filming schedule.

Guerilla filmmaking has existed since the early days of cinema, though it wasn’t considered illegal back then. 'If you look back at the origins of filmmaking, everything was guerilla,' Kroll explains. 'There was no such thing as a location permit. Over time, rules and regulations were established as filming became more widespread.'

As rules evolved, so did the strategies of budget-conscious producers. Fortunately, you don’t need a famous last name like Spielberg, Ephron, or Cameron to make a movie (though it certainly doesn’t hurt). While a hefty budget can enhance a film and simplify the process, many aspiring filmmakers have launched successful careers with little to no funding. Discover how they achieved this, next.

Funding and Forms of Guerrilla Films

Even guerilla films need some funding to keep production moving. While actors and crew often work without pay (usually agreeing to a profit-sharing deal if the film is sold for distribution), there are still unavoidable expenses like equipment, film processing, and meals. Some producers invest their own money or seek funds from friends, family, and online platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo [source: Fera].

Some guerilla films secure funding from private investors. However, even with financial backing, many still opt to bypass permit expenses, redirecting those funds to other critical areas of production.

Filmmaker Robert Rodriguez, known for creating 'El Mariachi' on a shoestring budget of $12,000, raised the final $3,000 by participating in a clinical trial for a cholesterol-lowering drug, which required him to stay in a medical facility [source: Broderick]. Rodriguez’s dedication is legendary. His film was shot in Mexico using free locations, and most scenes were captured in a single take.

Fans of the 1984 classic 'The Terminator' might be surprised to learn that the cult favorite was a low-budget, guerilla-style production. Director James Cameron, trained by Roger Corman, employed these techniques. During the filming of the final scene on a remote road, a police officer questioned Cameron about permits. He claimed it was a student project and was let off with a warning [source: Moore]. Given his subsequent success, it’s safe to say he no longer needs to dodge rules or permit fees.

The Academy Award-winning 'The French Connection' was shot guerilla-style across New York City, despite having a sizable crew [source: Kroll]. Another surprising example is 'Escape From Tomorrow,' filmed over several weeks at Disneyland and Disney World without any permissions [source: Burchette]. The crew avoided detection by using handheld cameras, mimicking tourists, and communicating discreetly via cell phones instead of walkie-talkies.

Pluses and Pitfalls of Guerilla Filmmaking

Few things come without a price, and filmmaking is no different. Producing movies requires funding, and with most independent films operating on tight budgets, it’s no surprise they look for ways to cut costs. The most significant advantage of guerilla filmmaking is the financial savings. Filming permits for certain locations can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, which can quickly drain the budget of a small production.

Interestingly, permits are often required even when filming on private property or in your own home, though this depends on local regulations. 'Naturally, people often bypass this rule when shooting at a friend’s house or a business where they have permission,' Kroll explains. 'But legally, a permit is still required, even in those situations.'

Guerilla filmmaking also reduces editing time due to its fast-paced shooting style. Since the crew and actors are technically breaking the law, they must work quickly and efficiently. This approach, known as 'one and done' in the industry, minimizes the amount of footage that needs editing later, cutting costs but potentially affecting the scene’s quality [source: Broderick].

Another advantage of bypassing permits is the time saved. The application and approval process can be lengthy and tedious, often stifling creativity. Additionally, there’s no guarantee of approval even if you follow all the rules. 'For example, you might want to film on a beach, but certain areas could be off-limits for filming, even with a permit,' Kroll notes.

While the benefits are significant, the risks are equally serious. Some law enforcement officers might let a guerilla film crew off with a warning, but others can impose severe penalties, including fines, confiscation of equipment or footage, and even arrests. 'If you choose to shoot this way, you’re assuming all the risk,' Kroll explains. 'You can’t blame anyone else if things go wrong.' In short, be prepared to face the consequences if you’re caught.

If you’re willing to take the risk, here are some strategies to consider.

Tips for Making a Guerilla Film

So, you’ve decided to embrace the outlaw spirit of the film industry—what’s next? We’ve compiled a list of tips for aspiring guerilla filmmakers, but remember: the risks are entirely on you. With that disclaimer out of the way, here’s what you need to do:

Scout your location in advance: Pay attention to security patrols and environmental factors like traffic and lighting. You won’t have the luxury of waiting all day for perfect conditions [source: Artis].

Be prepared: Blocking and rehearsing on-site will attract unwanted attention. Have actors rehearse elsewhere (perhaps at your home) and ensure everyone arrives ready to shoot. Double-check equipment, the shot list, and the shooting schedule before heading to the 'set' [source: Guerilla Film].

Know your rights: Understand what qualifies as a commercial production. Certain equipment is allowed in public spaces, so as long as you’re within legal boundaries, it’s a no-harm situation [source: Fera]. Some directors even keep a college student on hand to claim it’s a student project if questioned.

Be a minimalist: Limit your crew to a few essential members (like a sound person, camera operator, and producer/director). Use a small handheld camera and discreet sound equipment. The goal is to blend in—avoid anything obvious, like a boom mic [source: Artis].

Or go all out: Kroll has seen filmmakers adopt a 'more is more' strategy, showcasing a large crew, extensive equipment, and sheer boldness. 'A colleague once filmed on Hollywood Boulevard, blocked off the street, and shot all day without interference,' Kroll recalls. 'He appeared professional and confident, so no one questioned him.' He advises against crews of five to 10 people, as they’re too small to look professional. 'Choose one extreme or the other.'

Have a backup plan: Your ideal location might face unexpected issues, like a water main break, or law enforcement might arrive, forcing a quick exit. To avoid delays, always have a contingency plan ready.

With the right mix of ingenuity, creativity, and preparation, your film will be completed in no time. Don’t forget to thank us when you make it to Sundance!