Show Don't Tell: Micro-Budget Filmmaking

Latest Episodes:

Running a Production Company, Landing Top Tier Clients, and Thriving In Commercial Filmmaking With Ryan McGuire Jun 07, 2024

Show notes

Today I am joined by Ryan McGuire, who heads up the commercial production company Cutter Studios in Tokyo, Japan.
Throughout the interview, Ryan and I take a deep dive into the world of commercial filmmaking. Ryan shares his story launching a niche production business in Japan, which has attracted clients like Amazon and Zeiss along the way. We also discuss tips for filmmakers looking to build an impressive body of work, how to best differentiate yourself, the impact of AI on the industry, and much more.
Links from the show:
Cutter Studios Tokyo
Ryan McGuire - LinkedIn
Ryan McGuire - Instagram
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Emmy Winner Marcus Mizelle On Podcasting For Filmmakers, The Role Of Curation In Cinema, And More! May 31, 2024

Show notes

In this episode I am joined by friend of the show and host of Past Present Feature (@pastpresentfeature), Marcus Mizelle. An Emmy award winning feature filmmaker who has made numerous successful DIY narrative and documentary films.
Throughout the interview we talk about Marcus’ leap from scripted micro-budget narratives, to breakthrough feature doc projects. He speaks to the importance of curation in modern day cinema, the state of the theatrical experience, and shares the benefits of podcasting and content creating for filmmakers.
This and much more on today's episode!
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DP Oren Soffer On Shooting THE CREATOR, Finding Your Cinematic Voice, And Thriving In Hollywood May 09, 2024

Show notes

Today I am thrilled to have acclaimed DP Oren Soffer on to talk about his recent work on The Creator, and all other things cinematography.
Oren is of course known for his brilliant camera work on countless narrative, commercial, and music video projects. He recently co-DP’d The Creator along with Greig Fraser - which drew tons of attention for its stunning visuals and innovative use of the Sony FX3.
Throughout the interview, Oren talks about his journey into cinematography, the process of co-DP'ing a project, and tips for budding cinematographers looking to break in. He also shares technical wisdom on green screens vs. gray screens, shooting with the FX3 on a major feature film, and much more!
Links from the show:
Oren Soffer - Instagram
Oren Soffer - Website
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Horror Icon Barbara Crampton On Making Killer Genre Films, Landing Amazing Actors & More! May 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode I am very excited to share my interview with the amazing Barbara Crampton - Known for her iconic genre films like Re-Animator, Jakob’s Wife, Suitable Flesh, and countless others.
After recently working with Barbara on our new feature film, I had to get her on the podcast to discuss her unique creative process.
Throughout the discussion, we cover Barbara’s career path from soap star to genre legend. We also discuss tips for new directors working with actors, the importance of re-inventing yourself as an artist, landing notable actors for your film, and so much more.
Links from the show:
Barbara on Instagram
Barbara on Twitter
Barbara on Facebook
Scream Dreams Podcast
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The Experimental Cinematography Of POOR THINGS - Petzval Lenses, Mixed Formats, And More! Apr 12, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I share a breakdown of some amazing and unconventional lens choices on the feature film Poor Things.
While many lenses were used throughout production, there were 4 in particular that I believe contributed most critically to the distinct look of this film - Including a pair of Lomography Petzval lenses, and a 4mm lens adapted from Super 16.
Throughout the episode, I cover each lens in depth, explore how they were used, and share other key takeaways from the film.
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Making A $200 Feature Film With A Crew Of 2 - An Interview With Marty McGowan Mar 29, 2024

Show notes

In this episode I am joined by DIY filmmaker Marty McGowan, who recently completed his feature film Ava on a budget of just $200!
Throughout the episode, we unpack Marty’s creative process, how he pulled off a feature with a 2 person crew, and his approach to building a strong visual palette on a budget. We also touch on his workflow for capturing great performances, the importance of building your own filmmaking model, and more.
Links from the show:
Marty McGowan - Instagram
Marty McGowan - Website
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8 Issues That Can Kill An Indie Film (And How To Avoid Them) Mar 07, 2024

Show notes

In this new solo episode, I break down these 8 common issues that can kill your indie film:

Big egos
Rushing the script
Dragging out development
Overspending on equipment
Neglecting actors for camera
Making sound an afterthought
Not taking feedback from the team
Not caring about the small details

Throughout the show I take a deep dive into the root cause of each of these issues, along with practical solutions for working around them.
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Shooting A Micro-Budget ACTION Feature With Writer / Director Steven Pierce Feb 23, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Steven Pierce to talk all about his latest feature film Herd.
The film follows a woman that ends up trapped between a zombie outbreak and warring militia groups while trying to outrun her past. An ambitious concept for a micro-budget, making the execution of it all that much more impressive.
Throughout the episode Steven and I speak about his new film at length. We cover his tactics for shooting action sequences on a budget, how he covered 20+ locations, the process of editing his own film, and much more.
Links from the show:
Herd - Movie Website
Herd - Instagram
Steven Pierce - Instagram
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How To Direct & DP Your Film At The Same Time (Without Sacrificing Quality) Feb 16, 2024

Show notes

In this new solo episode, I compare and contrast my experience directing and DP’ing two separate feature films, and share tips for other filmmakers looking to do the same.
Throughout the episode we cover everything from camera & lens choice to on-set workflow. All with the intention of maximizing collaboration with actors, achieving great production value, and simplifying your on-set workflow.
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From SXSW Shorts To Directing Bruce Dern in “Buck Alamo” - An Interview With Benjamin Epstein Feb 09, 2024

Show notes

Today I am joined by writer / director Benjamin Epstein to talk about his acclaimed feature film Buck Alamo, which stars Bruce Dern, Sonny Carl Davis, Lorelei Linklater, and premiered at the Oldenburg Film Festival.
Throughout the episode we discuss Benjamin’s path as a filmmaker. From his early short film work to his first premiere at SXSW. We also unpack his creative process, his experience directing TV, and take a behind the scenes look at his latest feature film Buck Alamo.
Links from the show:
Benjamin Epstein - Instagram
Buck Alamo - Movie Website
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