Independent Films, dying breed?

I have always felt that independent films were an elite part of the film world. Yes it's where some people get their start but now it seems to be more commercialized. They have big name actors associated with indie films, which as a consequence could bring in a bigger budget. Isn't the whole premise of an indie film that there is next to no budget, unknown actors, and a story that might not appeal to the masses? Once an indie film makes it big does it lose that initial quirky charm it had? Those are my questions. Discuss!! ;)