Houston Comedy Film Festival is proud to spotlight filmmaker Aaron Spells, whose comedy Perpetraitors in Government Systems doubles as a playbook for how to make a movie on a budget. His work embodies the heart of independent filmmaking: big ideas, sharp humor, and smart production choices instead of massive spending.
Champion of low‑budget filmmaking
With Perpetraitors in Government Systems, Spells shows emerging filmmakers that resourcefulness can be a superpower. By focusing on story, character, and clever use of locations and props, he proves you can deliver a polished, engaging comedy without relying on studio-level resources.
Teaching while creating
Beyond directing his own work, Spells actively teaches others how to make a movie on a budget, breaking down the process so new filmmakers can follow in his footsteps. From planning and pre‑production to efficient shoot days, his approach turns every project into a practical lesson in do‑it‑yourself filmmaking.
Why HCFF is celebrating him
Houston Comedy Film Festival celebrates Aaron Spells not just for the laughs in Perpetraitors in Government Systems, but for the way he lifts up the next generation of creators. His commitment to sharing knowledge and building community aligns perfectly with the festival’s mission to champion bold, independent comedy voices who are making it happen, whether or not they have a big budget behind them.
