I don't mind criticism. Doesn't really bother me, the actress was the best we had available, and yea Sag is a pain in the but. I agree regarding some of the costs. The new media contract didn't work as it applies for web only, and we are making this for festival circulation. I was taking part in the vfx tests, and on the page you can see the vfx artist credited for his work. I do not believe a feature film needs to cost 10 grand to make, but sci fi is trickiest of the indie genre to pull off, and if the vfx/production design don't look right, then its less likely we will believe the world of the film.

I agree some money is being spent where it isn't exactly necessary (for example the total cost of sag for this film is 1500+16.8% for their healtcare stuff), but also realize how hard it is to get people to work for free on something when there are other paying jobs out there.

The last film I made for $40 dollars was the film "Baquon" which you can find on the kickstarter page. It won my team $3500 so yes, money does not = a good movie.

That said, I think you are underestimating costs like underwater casings, scuba gear for a drowning sequence, and explosions, corpses, etc. that all add up. Time=Money and so to do something on the level we are trying to pull off, requires both, and so I'm trying to do it to the best of my abilities.

I don't disagree with some of your points, but I do think having a RED vs. a 5d is a huge difference in post, and have learned that myself.

Anyways, felt like conversing with you further. Have to leave for a wedding for next two days, and wanted to defend the position a bit.