"Build the Business Behind Your Story."
DFS equips filmmakers to develop, fund, produce, and distribute impactful content. We help you turn your ideas into professionally structured projects.
Who we are: For 25 years, Gratis 7 Films has produced award-winning documentaries that have reached global audiences, mobilized thousands, and raised millions for nonprofits and organizations. Now, we're focused on equipping filmmakers and organizations to do the same.
Meet your Instructor
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T.C. Johnstone is a multi-award-winning documentary film director/producer and the founder of the Gratis 7 Media Group Foundation, which produces films and content designed to create measurable change. T.C. and his wife, Kristen, live in Boulder, CO.
Film Overview:
“Rising From Ashes”, Executive produced by Oscar-winning actor Forest Whitaker. Winner of 19 film festival awards, with U.S. and international distribution.
“Red Horizon” Narrated by eight-time Grammy winner Usher.
“Teen Press”, Multiple festival wins; generated national and international youth journalism pilots.
“In the Dirt”, Screened in over 100 communities; winner of numerous audience awards.
“The Power of Small”, Releasing now; Festivals and community screenings.
“Untethered”, Currently in post-production.
And many others.
Their foundation has raised over $2M in funding for impact films through the DFS system.
Testimonials
"DFS has helped us bring our first passion project to life.""
Patrick Gines, Director/Producer
"If you're looking to start and finish meaningful films, this is everything you need."
Ashley Maddox, Documentary Filmmaker
"Doc Film School helped inspire, inform, and support me towards make my first film! "
Kersten Parella Red Roads Films, Director/Producer
"This is strategy, budgets, and templates, all presented in a clear and practical system."
David Mahanes, Documentary Producer
"An invaluable resource for developing impact films and a lasting career."
Jack Zakrajsek, Documentary Director/Producer
"Doc Film School transformed what I thought was a complex undertaking into a straightforward, digestible process. A MasterClass-level resources with a step-by-step methodology."
Barrett Peters, Executive Producer