In the world of cinema, the glitz and glamour of blockbuster films often overshadow the raw, authentic brilliance of indie filmmaking. But every now and then, a story emerges that reminds us of the heart and soul behind independent films. Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Laura Vale and Rich Ronat, the powerhouse duo behind Good Rebel Pictures, to discuss their journey, their latest film “Culprit,” and the essence of indie filmmaking.

Our conversation kicked off with Laura and Rich sharing their unique paths that led them to establish Good Rebel Pictures. Frustrated with the industry’s gatekeeping and the sheer volume of subpar movies churned out with astronomical budgets, they decided to start their own production company.

“We’ve both been in the business a long time,” Rich began. “You spend so much of your time trying to break in or get someone to pick you. We reached a point where we were done. We wanted to do our stuff, especially after seeing so many bad movies. We thought, ‘Why not us?'”

Laura echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of creative control. “We wanted to create something we could be proud of, without the toxic energy or inflated egos. That’s what led to the birth of Good Rebel Pictures.”

Starting a production company is no small feat, and Laura and Rich were candid about the challenges they faced. From raising funds to managing social media and publicity, the duo had to wear multiple hats.

“Right now, our goal is to do one movie a year,” Rich shared. “We want to start small, build an audience, and eventually create a sustainable model for producing quality films.”

Laura highlighted the importance of publicity and audience engagement. “We were chosen to headline a film festival in Los Angeles, which is a huge opportunity for us. It’s about getting eyes on the film and building a buzz.”


One of the most captivating aspects of our conversation was their exploration of the essence of independent filmmaking. Rich and Laura believe that indie films offer a unique lens into small towns and lesser-known places, taking audiences on a journey that big-budget films often miss.

“In indie filmmaking, you have the freedom to focus on storytelling and character development without the pressure of meeting blockbuster expectations,” Laura explained. “It’s about creating meaningful narratives that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.”

“We had no jerks on set, and we promptly showed the door to anyone with bad energy,” Rich continued. It’s crucial to create a positive environment where everyone feels valued and motivated.”

“Culprit” serves as the flagship film for Good Rebel Pictures. The story is a psychological thriller that delves into themes of humanity and redemption. It’s a narrative that challenges the audience, making them question their own biases and preconceived notions.

“Culprit started from a story I heard about a guy who spent 27 years in prison and then got out,” Rich recounted. “I was fascinated by how much technology and the world changed during that time. It began as a character-driven drama but evolved into a thriller to make it more marketable.”

Laura chimed in, “We wanted to ensure that the film was engaging and thought-provoking. It’s not just about action; it’s about creating an emotional and psychological journey for the audience.”

As we went further into the discussion of the film, I asked Laura and Rich what they hoped audiences would take away from “Culprit.”

“We want to create stories that keep people guessing and engaged,” Rich said. “It’s about showing authentic performances and creating a narrative that resonates on a deeper level.”

Laura added, “We want the audience to connect with the characters and reflect on their own lives and choices. It’s about creating an experience that stays with them long after the credits roll.”

Through their journey producing “Culprit,” Laura and Rich have learned valuable lessons about producing films and managing a production company. They emphasized the importance of empowering their team and creating a collaborative environment.

“I learned how to empower everyone around me to be their best,” Rich said. “It’s about making sure each person feels invested in the project, which ultimately enhances the quality of the film.”

Laura added, “Our head producer, Cosmos Kiindarius, set a great example for us. He handled everything calmly and efficiently, which was a huge learning experience for me.”

As our interview was nearing an end, I was intrigued to know what advice the dynamic duo would give to others who would one day like to be in their seats. When asked, Laura and Rich stressed the importance of specialization and hard work.

“Pick one thing and get really good at it,” Rich advised. “Empower yourself by learning how to produce, so you can create your own opportunities. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes; that’s how you learn.”

Laura emphasized the value of humility and continuous learning. “In this Instagram-able world, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea of instant stardom. But if you want a long-lasting career, you have to put in the work, study, and stay humble.”

The journey of Laura and Rich with Good Rebel Pictures is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and authenticity in filmmaking. Their commitment to telling meaningful stories and creating a positive working environment sets them apart in the industry. As they continue to make their mark with films like “Culprit,” it’s clear that Good Rebel Pictures is a name to watch in the world of indie cinema.

Photography Credits
Photographer: Ben Cope
Makeup: Kate Hollinshead