Documentary Coaching with Marq Evans
For over a decade, I've been helping filmmakers turn their documentary ideas into finished films that find audiences and make an impact.
As Director of the Documentary Film Program at Olympic College and through my private coaching practice, I work with filmmakers at every stage of the process—from initial concept through festival strategy and distribution. My students and clients have premiered at major festivals, secured distribution deals, and successfully crowdfunded their projects.
My approach is practical, not theoretical. I teach what I've learned by making films that premiered at Tribeca, won festival awards, earned critical acclaim, and found audiences on major streaming platforms. I've successfully crowdfunded three feature documentaries, navigated festival circuits, worked with sales agents and distributors, and built sustainable filmmaking practices.
I believe documentary filmmakers must think cinematically. Your job isn't just to inform—it's to entertain, to move people, to make films that audiences actually want to watch. I can help you get there.
What I Offer
Through my coaching practice, I provide:
Story development - Shaping your idea into a compelling narrative
Production strategy - Building realistic budgets and timelines
Crowdfunding guidance - Drawing from my 197% funded Kickstarter campaigns
Festival strategy - Getting your film seen by the right audiences
Distribution planning - Navigating the changing landscape of documentary release
I work with filmmakers one-on-one through structured packages and à la carte sessions designed around your specific needs and timeline.
My Films
THE DIAMOND KING (2025) - Premiered at Palm Springs International Film Festival, now streaming on Apple TV and Amazon
CLAYDREAM (2022) - Premiered at Tribeca Film Festival, named one of the top 10 documentaries of 2022 by The A.V. Club
THE GLAMOUR & THE SQUALOR (2016) - Named one of the top 20 music documentaries of all time by American Songwriter
Teaching Background
I direct the Documentary Film Program at Olympic College in Bremerton, Washington, where I teach the next generation of documentary filmmakers. I hold an MFA in Film from Vermont College of Fine Arts and have developed curriculum on everything from story structure to crowdfunding strategy to the business of documentary.
I've also created extensive educational resources on documentary production, budgeting, creative philosophy, and distribution—all informed by the reality of making films in today's landscape.
Ready to Start?
For detailed information on coaching packages, pricing, and availability, visit:
Or contact me directly at marq@marqevans.com