Today we’d like to introduce you to Sonny Corona III
Hi Sonny, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always loved movies, but I wasn’t born into the industry—I had to carve my own path. For years, I dreamed of making films, but like so many others, I faced the same obstacles: no connections, no big budget, no clear roadmap. Instead of waiting for an opportunity, I decided to create my own.
That’s how Let’s Make A Bad Movie Productions was born. What started as a scrappy, no-budget experiment quickly grew into something bigger—a movement. We made nine short films in one year, proving that passion and perseverance matter more than money. I didn’t just make movies; I built a community of storytellers who had been overlooked, prioritizing diversity and fresh voices. I even hosted our own sold-out film festival, giving independent filmmakers the platform they deserved.
Then came my biggest challenge yet—making a full-length feature film with just $12,000. Most people would have said it couldn’t be done, but I did it anyway. Beautifully Broken People became proof that when you believe in something enough, you find a way. And now, that film is reaching audiences on streaming platforms.
Austin is changing, but its weird, rebellious, creative spirit is still alive. We keep Austin alive by “Keeping It Weird” through film, pushing boundaries, and proving that storytelling doesn’t need a Hollywood budget—just passion, grit, and a little bit of chaos.
My journey is proof that you don’t need permission to chase your dreams. If you have a vision, take the leap. Build your own opportunities. Find your people. Make something—anything. Because the only way to fail is to never start.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been anything but a smooth road. In fact, if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the obstacles are what make the journey worth it.
Starting out, I had no connections in the film industry, no big investors, and no formal training. All I had was a passion for storytelling and a refusal to wait for permission. Making movies with little to no budget meant learning to be resourceful—borrowing locations, convincing people to work for free or cheap, and figuring out how to turn limitations into creative advantages.
One of the biggest challenges was convincing people to believe in something that didn’t exist yet. When I started Let’s Make A Bad Movie Productions, there was no guarantee of success. But I knew that if I could create opportunities for myself, I could create them for others too. I prioritized diversity and gave first-time filmmakers and actors a shot—people who might have otherwise been overlooked.
Funding has always been an uphill battle. Making a feature film with just $12,000 isn’t something most people would even attempt, but I made it work through sheer willpower, long hours, and an amazing group of dedicated creatives. There were times when I wondered if I’d ever finish, but quitting was never an option.
And then, there’s the industry itself—trying to break through in a world where big studios dominate, and indie films often get overlooked. But that’s what makes what I’m doing in Austin so important. I’m proving that independent filmmakers can make an impact, that you don’t need millions to tell a great story.
Austin is changing, but I’m keeping it alive by “Keeping It Weird” through film—pushing boundaries, telling unconventional stories, and giving voices to those who might not have had the chance otherwise. Every struggle has made me stronger, and every roadblock has only fueled the fire to keep going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a filmmaker, writer, and director who thrives on telling bold, unconventional stories. Through Let’s Make A Bad Movie Productions, I’ve built a space where independent filmmakers can take risks, break rules, and create something unique—without waiting for Hollywood’s approval.
I specialize in making high-quality films on ultra-low budgets, proving that creativity matters more than money. My work is known for its raw, character-driven storytelling, dark humor, and crime-driven narratives that blend action, drama, and unexpected heart. I love stories about flawed people making desperate choices, and I aim to bring a fresh, authentic voice to independent cinema.
What I’m most proud of is Beautifully Broken People, my first full-length feature film. Made for just $12,000, it’s proof that passion and persistence can overcome any budget limitation. More than that, it represents everything Let’s Make A Bad Movie stands for—giving opportunities to new actors and filmmakers, building a creative community, and keeping Austin’s indie film scene alive.
What sets me apart is my relentless drive to create without permission. I didn’t wait for funding or industry connections—I built my own path. I don’t just make films; I create opportunities for others to do the same. I believe in making movies the way Austin makes music—DIY, experimental, and a little weird. While the industry chases trends, I focus on raw, authentic storytelling that sticks with people.
At a time when Austin is evolving, I’m working to make sure its independent spirit stays alive. I’m “Keeping It Weird” through film, proving that great stories can come from anywhere—even a group of outsiders with a camera, a dream, and just enough chaos to make something unforgettable.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that no one is going to give you permission—so you have to take it.
When I started, I had no industry connections, no big budget, and no guarantees. If I had waited for the “right time” or for someone to greenlight my vision, I’d still be waiting. Instead, I chose to just start—making short films with whatever resources I had, pulling together a team of passionate people, and figuring things out along the way.
I learned that obstacles are just opportunities in disguise. A small budget forces creativity. Lack of experience pushes you to learn. Closed doors make you build your own.
I also realized that community is everything. I wouldn’t be where I am without the incredible people who believed in my vision and jumped in to help bring it to life. Filmmaking isn’t a solo act—it’s about collaboration, trust, and lifting each other up.
And most of all, I’ve learned that failure isn’t the enemy—fear is. The only real way to fail is to never start. Every misstep, every challenge, and every unexpected twist in the road has only made me better, stronger, and more determined.
That’s why I keep going. That’s why I keep pushing. And that’s why I’m “Keeping It Weird” through film—because the stories worth telling are the ones that refuse to play it safe.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.letsmakeabadmovie.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letsmakeabadmovie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090765528634
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@letsmakeabadmovie
