Documentary First

Here is a taste of our new series called Conversation With Christian that is available on Patreon. In this episode, Christian interviews her eldest son, the one with whom her entire film adventure began. In 2011 he joined the military and that life decision had big implications for the whole family. They discuss his military journey and their shared experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss themes of trust, perseverance, and the importance of community. Christian’s son shares his passion for the military and his desire to serve as a warfighter. They also touch on the challenges and rewards of running a business together. Overall, the conversation highlights the lessons learned and the growth that comes from facing difficult circumstances. Support us on Patreon and get Documentary First exclusive content like this episode for $5+ a month. Patreon.com/DocumentaryFirst Takeaways Trust in God's provision and have faith in His plan, even in difficult times. Challenges and setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth. Building a strong community and culture is essential for personal and professional development. Having a mentor or someone with experience can provide valuable guidance and support. Passion and dedication are key to pursuing a fulfilling career or vocation.

In this insightful episode of the Documentary First Podcast, Christian Taylor, David Paterson, and Todd Anderson delve into the data and hard-earned lessons from the theatrical release of The Girl Who Wore Freedom. They explore the surprising factors that influenced ticket sales, including screening schedules, ticket pricing, and the often overlooked role of theater advertising—or lack thereof. The team shares their experiences with the logistical hurdles of distributing physical drives and the critical importance of targeted outreach to specific audiences. Reflecting on their journey, the hosts candidly discuss the missteps and lessons learned, underscoring the necessity of strategic planning, research, and building strong partnerships in independent film distribution. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex world of documentary filmmaking and theatrical releases. No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Script Confusion 04:21 Theatrical Release Details 07:46 The Impact of Matinee Showings 09:01 Personal Interruption: Wedding Announcement 12:50 Return to Discussion: Advertising and Theater Cooperation 15:52 Personal Interruption: Wedding Update 17:15 Return to Discussion: Naivete and Theater Advertising 2115 The Importance of Deliverables and Advertising 22:13 The Impact of Deliverables on Profit 23:24 The Challenges of Physical Distribution 26:22 The Role of DCP Suppliers in Distribution 27:36 The Importance of Organization and Tracking 28:32 Theaters' Lack of Advertising and Responsibility 29:13 The Importance of Targeted Outreach 30:07 The Impact of Ticket Prices on Profit 31:22 The Success of Film Festival Screenings 32:39 The Importance of Local Outreach and Partnerships 35:36 The Importance of Research and Targeting 38:09 The Success of In-Person Screenings 42:00 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

In this episode of Documentary First, Christian Taylor is joined by Joe Amodei and Tim Maggiani from Virgil Films Entertainment to dive into the evolving world of film distribution and the diminishing role of film festivals in securing deals. The discussion sheds light on how the dominance of streaming platforms and studios has shifted the landscape, making it increasingly difficult for independent filmmakers to gain visibility through traditional film festivals. The conversation explores the significance of IMDb in shaping a film’s release strategy and public perception. Christian and Tim emphasize the importance of meticulously managing your IMDb page, from the release date to cast listings, to enhance your film’s appeal. They also highlight the critical role of eye-catching key art in capturing attention. The hosts delve into how streaming platforms utilize algorithms to curate content tailored to user preferences, changing the way audiences discover films. They also discuss the growing prominence of ad-supported video on demand (AVOD) services like Tubi and Pluto TV, which provide filmmakers with new avenues to reach diverse audiences. Joe Amodei reflects on his personal connection with Morgan Spurlock, sharing how the success of Spurlock’s documentary Super Size Me profoundly impacted Virgil Films and the documentary industry. He pays tribute to their enduring friendship, underscoring the value of supporting one another in both personal and professional endeavors. DocuView Dèjà Vu IMDB LINK: Morgan Spurlock | Producer, Writer, Director Super Size Me, 2004, 100mins, Watch on Peacock, Pluto, Prime, Roku, Tubi and Plex, IMDB LINK: Super Size Me (2004) ⭐ 7.2 | Documentary Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:02 The Changing Role of Film Festivals 09:04 The Impact of IMDb on Release Dates and Perception 14:09 The Influence of Streamers and Studios 20:07 The Dominance of Streamers at Film Festivals 22:46 The Importance of IMDb and Its Limitations 24:03 Adapting to the Changing Distribution Landscape 25:35 Optimizing Your IMDb Page and Key Art 26:32 The Role of Algorithms in Content Curation 28:56 The Rise of Ad-Supported Video on Demand 40:22 DocuView Dèjà Vu - Remembering Morgan Spurlock and 'Super Size Me'

You know our good friend, Joe Amodei (Supersize Me) from past episodes. Now meet his protégé, Tim Maggiani, who is a great explainer of the modern film distribution process. Joe, a seasoned pro in VHS and DVD sales, admits the need for his distribution company to stay nimble and adaptable to new technology and platforms. Enter Tim. He understands the streaming world yet adheres to the age-old method of cultivating relationships between filmmakers and distributors—a key ingredient to success. By listening to this podcast, one will gain understanding about: what it is like to attend a Hollywood pitch meeting, how a movie is delivered, and why it is important to find a champion for your film. Stay tuned to Documentary First to hear Part 2 later this month! Links: https://www.forksoverknives.com/ DocuView Dèjà Vu Tim Maggiani: "Just. One. Mile.", 2023, 1hr 36min, Watch on Tubi and Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28619147/ Joe Amodei: “7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story”, 2021, 93 mins, Watch on Tubi and Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12439210/ Timecodes 00:50 Introduction and Disclaimer 06:50 Joe Amodei's Journey in the Film Industry 14:44 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Film Distribution 19:38 Pitching Films to Distributors and Platforms: The Art of the Pitch 22:36 Building and Maintaining Relationships in the Film Industry 25:05 Creating Compelling Marketing Materials for Film Distribution 30:56 Importance of Ongoing Promotion for Independent Films 33:17 Building Strong Relationships with Filmmakers 38:06 DocuView Dèjà Vu

Special guests, Whitney and Brandon Cawood, take us behind the scenes of their groundbreaking documentary, To Dye For. This eye-opening film dives deep into the hidden dangers of synthetic dyes and their adverse effects on individuals and families. By incorporating a unique blend of vlog-style storytelling, expert interviews, and emotional family testimonies, To Dye For shines a light on a critical issue often overlooked. In this episode, Brandon and Whitney open up about their personal journey, sharing the urgency that drove them to bring this story to life. They discuss the challenges of wearing multiple hats—handling animation, music composition, and casting—while navigating the financial, marketing, and strategy side of independent filmmaking. Through the process of making this film they learned how to have focus groups and how to rely on God during tough times. We encourage our listeners to see the movie when it releases! Links: http://www.todyeforthedocumentary.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@YesTheory DocuView Dèjà Vu Whitney: “Not So Pretty”, 2022, 4 Episode Documentaty Series, Watch on MAX, IMDB LINK: Not So Pretty (TV Mini Series 2022) ⭐ 6.9 | Documentary Christian: 1. “Brandy Hellville & the Cult fo Fast Fashion”, 2024, 91mins, Watch on MAX, IMDB LINK: Brandy Hellville & the Cult of Fast Fashion (2024) ⭐ 6.2 | Documentary 2. “The Movies That Made Us”, 2019-2921, 3 Season Series, Watch on Netflix, IMDB LINK: The Movies That Made Us (TV Series 2019–2021) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, Family, History Brandon: 1. “Backstreet Boys: Show ‘Em What You’re Made Of”, 2015, 101 mins, Watch on various streaming platforms such a Prime, Tubi, Roku, Peacock, IMDB LINK: Backstreet Boys: Show 'Em What You're Made Of (2015) ⭐ 7.5 | Documentary 2. “OUTATIME: Saving the DeLoren Time Machine”, 2016, 64 mins, Watch on Amazon, IMDB LINK: OUTATIME: Saving the DeLorean Time Machine (2016) ⭐ 7.4 | Documentary Timecodes 00:51 Introduction and Background 03:57 Summary of the Documentary 10:35 Filmmakers' Background and Roles 19:04 Impressions of the Film 21:45 Storytelling Mechanisms and Working Within a Budget 32:10 Divine Intervention and the Making of a Documentary Film 37:30 Taking on Multiple Roles: Social Media Marketing 39:10 Understanding the Target Audience and Administrative Tasks 47:00 Finding Community and In-Person Test Screenings 52:38 Being Creative and Unique in Documentary Filmmaking 55:20 DocuView Dèjà Vu Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!

Cecilia Peck (executive producer) and Inbal B. Lessner (editor) are the creators of Netflix's 2023 doc series, Escaping Twin Flames. Together, they explore their personal journey as filmmakers, how they united as a powerful team, and how they brought this social issue to light. The conversation dives into the unsettling world of the Twin Flames Universe, an online relationship community whose promises of true love masks a controlling environment. Through deep research and with empathy, they unearthed these survivors’ stories. The filmmakers discuss the vital role of editors in shaping a narrative, their support for editors deserving writing credits, and the collaborative effort required to piece together different story arcs. They share unexpected moments that shifted the direction of the series and reflect on how documentaries can influence real-world change, including how shows can affect law enforcement through social pressure. Inbal and Cecilia also talk about the qualities they admire in each other, their commitment to ethical filmmaking, and offer valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. They emphasize the importance of mastering skills like sound recording and editing, and the value of learning firsthand from filmmakers you respect. DocuView Dèjà Vu Inbal: Fire of Love, 2022, 98 mins, Watch on Hulu & Prime, IMDB LINK: Fire of Love (2022) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, Biography Cecilia: Harlan County U.S.A., 1976, 103 mins, Watch on MAX or Amazon, IMDB LINK: Harlan County U.S.A. (1976) ⭐ 8.2 | Documentary Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Filmmaker Background 08:53 Nominated for an Emmy and Working Together 15:22 From Brave Miss World to Seduced 20:10 Investigating Twin Flames Universe 22:10 Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Documentary Filmmaking 24:30 Pitching to Netflix: From Proof of Concept to Green Light 27:07 The Trade-Off: Ownership vs. Financial Support 29:20 The Role of Editors in Documentary Filmmaking 32:30 Collaborative Editing and Multiple Editors 40:40 Surprising Moments and Impact on Law Enforcement 50:54 The Importance of Ethical Filmmaking 53:10 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

DISCLAIMER -- *Documentary First Productions and it’s staff acknowledge the complexity of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Comments made in this video are meant to explore the complexity of violence rather than to promote or stand for a particular cause. -- In this week's episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor is joined by summer intern Peyton Rabb to recount their unforgettable journey to Normandy for the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day landings. The Documentary First Productions team had the profound honor of accompanying 101-year-old WWII veteran Ceo Bauer to the commemorative ceremonies—his first experience in Normandy attending the D-Day commemorations. This deeply moving experience touched not only Ceo and the team but also the people of Normandy and the active-duty military members who took part in the events. Christian and Peyton reflect on the emotional impact of their documentary, "The Girl Who Wore Freedom", which centers around Ceo Bauer’s story and resonates deeply with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. The episode delves into the French perspective on war and freedom, the significance of the D-Day commemorations, and the team's interactions with notable figures like Air Force captain (CPT), Christian Maude. Listeners will be transported to key moments of the trip, from visiting the historic church at Angoville-au-Plain, with its blood-stained pews, to witnessing a reenactment at Utah Beach. Peyton also shares her personal growth from this experience, including the profound effect of receiving Ceo's book. The episode wraps up with thoughtful reflections on the importance of taking risks, the power of storytelling, and the value of intergenerational friendships forged through shared history. Don't miss this powerful conversation that honors the past while inspiring future connections. No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode. Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:03 The 80th Anniversary of Normandy 07:28 The Impact of The Girl Who Wore Freedom 11:10 The French Perspective on War and Freedom 15:25 Exploring the Schedule and Events of the Trip 27:25 Inspiring Support from Captain Christian Maude 29:19 A Special Visit to Angoville Church 36:23 Solemn and Impactful Reenactment at Utah Beach 40:23 The Priceless Moment of Receiving Ceo's Book 47:29 The Incredible Involvement of the U.S. Army 52:07 Personal Growth and Transformation 54:03 The Value of Intergenerational Friendships & Conclusion

It's Part 2 of 3 in the Dream Team series, Christian Taylor, Todd Anderson, and David Paterson are back! They share about the release of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" nationally to celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. This time they dive into administration, specifically getting hard drives to movie theater owners, frustrations, failures, and all. They learned that keeping track of emails and communication is crucial during a theatrical release. It takes money to make money, yet the devil is in the details; Sometimes the operations cost more than expected.

Brian Skerry, a renowned documentary filmmaker and photojournalist specializing in marine wildlife discusses his journey in the industry and his latest documentary series, Sea Change, July 24 on PBS. Skerry shares how he started as a diver and developed a passion for underwater photography and filmmaking. He also talks about his transition from photography to becoming a producer for ocean documentaries. We are happy to share this conversation with a producer who won an Emmy for creating Disney+ "Secret of the Whales". Links: Brianskerry.com Instagram.com/brianskerry https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/series/sea-change-the-gulf-of-maine/ DocuView Dèjà Vu Brian: Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story, 2024, 77 mins, Watch on Hulu, IMDB Link: Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story (2024) - IMDb Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple, 2024, 147mins, Watch on HBO Max, IMDB Link: Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple (2024) - IMDb Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Brian Skerry 02:22 Brian Skerry's Journey in Filmmaking 08:53 Transitioning into Producing and Directing 19:09 The Importance of Planning and Portfolio Building 26:52 Combining Visual Storytelling and Logistics 35:06 Addressing Climate Change in Documentaries 37:49 The Meaning of the Ocean Being a Carbon Sink 41:21 The Decline of the Gulf of Maine 48:29 The Power of Storytelling in Environmental Conservation 59:43 Research and Exploration in Filmmaking 01:06:34 Where to Watch Sea Change 01:07:30 DocuView Dèjà Vu

Our dream team who was in charge of releasing "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" in theaters for the 80th anniversary of D-day, June 6, 2024 reunite! They offer a behind-the-scenes look into the herculean effort in getting our first documentary successfully on the big screen. Throughout the conversation, the team emphasizes the importance of crafting compelling emails, employing creative outreach tactics, and maintaining meticulous follow-up to ensure success. They share their experiences navigating the challenges of securing commitments and marketing the film across different theaters and communities. Their dedication and efforts culminated in a successful theatrical release, significantly raising awareness about D-Day and honoring its legacy No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 01:31 How Todd Anderson Got Involved 25:27 Crafting Effective Outreach Emails 29:14 Tracking and Follow-Up 36:08 Reaching Out to Local Communities 38:51 Challenges in Securing Theater Commitments 48:23 Conclusion Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!

After suffering from Ulcerative Colitis for nearly a decade, filmmaker Saffron Cassaday tried a new treatment known as Fecal Microbiota Transplant: taking stool from a healthy donor and implanting it into the gut of a sick patient. She chronicles this journey in DESIGNER $HIT, https://geni.us/DesignerShit. We were fortunate to have her on the podcast to share about her start in the entertainment industry as a commercial editor and later directing the successful documentary, "Cyber-Seniors" https://cyberseniorsdocumentary.com/. We get into her most recent project, a revealing medical journey that features turning poop into medicine. DocuView Dèjà Vu: Saffron: “Babies” 2010, 79 mins, Watch on Amazon/Prime, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1020938/ Christian: “Cat Daddies” 2022, 89 mins, Watch on Plex, Tubi, Prime, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10968602/ “Unsung Hero” 2024, 113 mins, Narrative based on a true story, Currently in Theatres, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23638614/ Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction 07:16 Choosing to Being Her Own Subject 20:16 Bridging the Generational Gap Through Technology in "Cyber-Seniors" 23:00 My Mom is the Producer! 25:08 Why You Need to Love the Subject Matter You Are Directing 28:10 "Designer Shit" 31:15 Fecal Transplant Treatment Perspectives in the Medical Community 38:34 DocuView Dèjà Vu Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!

Did you ever wonder if a "Human Swiss Army Knife" of filmmaking existed? Well, in this episode, you'll meet one: Josh Haygood, also known as "The Fixer." Join us as Christian and Josh chat about how Josh got into filmmaking, transitioning from photography to moving pictures. From his time in Vietnam, devouring National Geographic, to landing jobs with the UN and MTV, Josh's journey is fascinating. We explore Haygood's extensive resume, showcasing his ability to tackle any job in the industry. His versatility and problem-solving skills earned him the nickname "The Fixer" during his years at MTV. He shares some of his experiences about being called to "fix" a project. Haygood worked on a recent documentary project that involved an innovative boating propeller, https://maelstrompropellers.com/ In a segment called "Answer Me This," Christian throws Haygood a few questions about life and media arts. By the end of the episode, we invite Josh to be a "friend of the show" as we are excited to have him back to delve into more areas of filmmaking. DocuView Dèjà Vu: JOSH: “Won’t You Be My Neighbor”, 2018, 95 mins, Watch on Netflix or Prime, IMDB LINK: Won't You Be My Neighbor? (2018) ⭐ 8.3 | Documentary, Biography, History Josh Haygood's production company link: https://www.banditofilms.com/ Timecodes: (00:00) - Introduction (12:17) How does somebody get to be in your position? (15:23) Development expertise in a thing become really, really good at least one thing. (17:28) The propeller company, the “Maelstrom Propellers” project. (21:46) “What do you want to do with that documentary?” (24:44) "What is one thing a person starting out could do to further their career?" (25:49) Josh names a person that really influenced his life. And why they made a difference to him. (27:39) “Three things that you tell your people when you want to set the tone on any production” (33:23) "What do you do when you're really struggling? When you don't have a project to work on or when the project you're working on isn't going well?" (43:51) "You absolutely seem to love your work and this lifestyle. And I just want to know. Why? This is a crazy job. It's crazy. What is it? Why do you love it so much?" (49:00) DocuView Dèjà Vu Segment - “Won't You Be My Neighbor”

Hey podcast listeners, in anticipation for our limited theatrical release on D-Day, we are sharing a special segment where Christian Taylor was featured on "The Real Story with Jeanne Ives" aired May 26, 2024. Tune in to hear the beginnings of how Taylor got into directing and for updates on "Heroes of Carentan". Stream "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" this Memorial Day on Vudu, Apple TV, Prime Video, and Vimeo.

In this episode, Christian and David Paterson discuss the FIRST ever theatrical release of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom"! They highlight the importance of knowing your audience, reaching out to mom-and-pop theaters, and independent film distribution overall. The conversation explores the reasoning behind having a limited theatrical release for our documentary film. They also touch on the costs associated with distribution and the timing strategy of theatrical releases. The episode concludes with a recommendation for the documentary film "The Greatest Night in Pop", which chronicles the making of the song "We Are the World." https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30796448/ · UPDATE: We have 222 Screenings in 109 Cities and 31 States!!! · NEW SCREENINGS ADDED DAILY FOR THE GIRL WHO WORE FREEDOM · CHECK OUT OUR INTERACTIVE MAP and find a screening in a city near you! Click here: https://i.mtr.cool/snfqwdivme · Be sure to check back frequently, as we'll be adding other locations! Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Company Update 01:27 Theatrical Release Announcement 08:00 The Importance of Knowing Your Audience 13:27 Customizing Outreach Efforts for Community Engagement 25:29 The Financial Aspects of a Theatrical Release 29:45 Persistence in Securing Theatres 33:41 Tailoring Screenings to the Venue 34:07 Flexibility and Options for Theaters 36:18 Considering the Costs of Distribution 46:09 Timing is Key for Theatrical Releases 52:19 DocuView Dèjà Vu: "The Greatest Night in Pop"

In this episode, Christian Taylor interviews Nicholas Bruckman, the director of the documentary film 'Minted'. They discuss the film, which explores the world of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) and the artists who have embraced this new technology. Bruckman shares how he discovered the story and gained access to the artists involved. The film follows digital artists on their journey of navigating the rise and fall of the NFT market. Bruckman also reflects on the challenges of documentary filmmaking and the importance of telling meaningful stories. The conversation explores the challenges of documentary filmmaking, including the difficulties of telling a macro story and the need to release control when working with local crews. The filmmakers discuss the process of selecting main characters and the challenges of managing expectations and dealing with participants who may not be featured prominently in the final film. Fear and doubt can arise during the creative process and it is important to retain a sense of freedom and exploration. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the financial aspects of documentary filmmaking and the potential of NFTs as a tool for artists. Takeaways The documentary film "Minted" explores the world of NFTs and the artists who have embraced this new technology. Director Nick Bruckman gained access to the artists and followed their journey as they navigated the rise and fall of the NFT market. The film highlights the challenges and opportunities of the digital art world and the impact of NFTs on artists' lives and careers. Bruckman reflects on the importance of documentary filmmaking and the power of storytelling to create meaningful connections. Documentary filmmaking involves challenges such as telling a macro story and releasing control when working with local crews. Selecting main characters can be a difficult process, and managing expectations and dealing with participants who may not be prominently featured in the film is important. Fear and doubt are common during the creative process, but it's important to retain a sense of freedom and exploration. Financial stability in documentary filmmaking can be achieved through various avenues, such as commercial work or adjacent jobs in the industry. NFTs present an interesting tool for artists to explore, but marketing and getting work in front of collectors is still crucial. Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 12:48 Exciting News and Distribution Deal for "Minted" 29:34 The Story of Karina and NFTs in Cuba 37:15 Dealing with Fear and Doubt in the Creative Process 52:48 Exploring NFTs as a Tool for Artists

In this episode, Christian provides an update on company developments and announces the upcoming trailer for our next documentary, "Heroes of Carentan." She gives an exclusive about the limited theatrical release of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom." Special guests, Tom Biolchini and Juan Pablo Reinoso, producer, director, and writer of "Mad Props," delve into the origins of "Mad Props," detailing its evolution from a TV show concept to a full-fledged documentary. Juan shares insights into his career and how his reunion with Tom sparked their collaboration on this project. The discussion explores the significance of embracing failure and highlights Tom’s natural flair as a host within the documentary. Juan outlines his organic filmmaking approach and the narrative development throughout "Mad Props." As the episode draws to a close, Tom shares his enthusiasm about realizing his childhood dreams through documentary. The conversation spans a variety of topics related to the film’s production, including budgeting, travel logistics, and scheduling. The guests discuss the challenges and strategies of navigating the film festival circuit. They emphasize the positive impact of maintaining a good attitude on set and its influence on the project. Juan reflects on his journey in the film industry, underscoring the importance of perseverance and dedication. Upcoming projects and Juan’s evolving roles in filmmaking are also discussed. Juan then talks about his favorite documentaries and the inherent unpredictability of documentary filmmaking. He stresses the importance of continuous learning and explains the concept of fair use for incorporating movie clips into documentaries. Insights into acquiring film clips and adapting to the dynamic nature of the film industry are shared. Juan highlights the critical roles of persistence and the filmmaker’s involvement in distribution. Lastly, Juan speaks to the generosity and philanthropy of Tom Biolchini, the focus of his documentary, rounding off a thoroughly engaging episode. Takeaways Documentary filmmakers must remain committed to continual learning and adapting to emerging technologies and evolving industry trends. Understanding fair use is paramount for integrating movie clips into documentaries; collaborating with clearance attorneys can provide essential guidance through complex legal landscapes. Persistence and resilience are crucial traits for filmmakers, given the industry's constant flux and the often demanding path to success. Active participation in the film's distribution process is essential, requiring filmmakers to invest significant effort in promoting their work. Moreover, the generosity and philanthropy of individuals like Tom not only enrich the filmmaking community but also leave a lasting impact on the broader world. DocuView Dèjà Vu: Juan Pablo Reinoso: Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son about His Father, 2008, 95 mins, Watch on Prime or Tubi, IMDB: Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father (2008) - IMDb 20 Days in Mariupol, 2023, 95 mins, Watch on Prime, IMDB: 20 Days in Mariupol (2023) - IMDb Capturing the Friedmans, 2003, 107mins, Watch on Max or buy from Amazon, IMDB: Capturing the Friedmans (2003) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, Biography, Crime

In this episode, host Christian Taylor interviews Alex Ivany, a visual storyteller, about his journey in the documentary filmmaking industry. Alex shares his passion for social and racial justice, which led him to work on projects that shed light on marginalized communities. He discusses his role as a producer and editor on the film "Ifine: Beauty", which explores the issue of skin bleaching in Sierra Leone. Alex also provides tips for aspiring filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of networking, continuous learning, and finding a mentor. The episode concludes with a call to support the film and join the documentary filmmaking community. Alex Ivany's email: [email protected] Takeaways • Networking and asking questions are essential for aspiring filmmakers to gain knowledge and opportunities. • Putting in the hours of practice and learning from experienced mentors can help filmmakers improve their craft. • Volunteering and helping others in the industry can lead to valuable connections and opportunities. • Filmmakers have the power to tell stories that promote social justice and shed light on marginalized communities. • Continuous education and staying informed about social issues are crucial for documentary filmmakers. DocuView Dèjà Vu: Alex: Searching for Sugar Man, 2012, PG-13, 96mins, Watch on Prime, IMDB Link: Searching for Sugar Man (2012) - IMDb The Last Repair Shop, 2023, 39 mins, PG, Watch on Hulu, IMDB Link: The Last Repair Shop (2023) - IMDb Christian: The Trial of Adolf Eichmann, 1997, 90mins, Watch on Netflix, IMDB Link: The Trial of Adolf Eichmann (TV Movie 1997) - IMDb Timecodes 00:00 Introduction 00:27 Introduction of Guest and Film 03:08 Guest's Background and Journey into Filmmaking 08:28 Transition to Editing and Working on '13th' 14:14 Transition to Producing and "Ifine: Beauty" 20:49 Passion for Social Justice and Racial Justice 24:07 Origin of "Ifine: Beauty" and Topic of Skin Bleaching 30:54 Life Cycle of the Film and Festival Circuit 35:22 Availability of the Film and Social Media 38:48 Reception of the Film in Sierra Leone 42:52 Tips for New Filmmakers 47:35 Importance of Education and Social Justice Filmmaking 48:26 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

In this episode, Christian Taylor interviews Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson, the directing duo behind the documentary "Going to Mars, the Nikki Giovanni Project." They discuss their background in filmmaking, the founding of Rada Studios https://radastudio.org/, and their dedication to telling stories of the Black Diaspora. The conversation also covers their award nominations and recognition, the cinematic beauty of "Going to Mars," the challenges of making the film, and their favorite documentaries. Takeaways: • Movies and storytelling have always inspired Joe Brewster, leading him to pursue a career in filmmaking. • Storytelling is deeply rooted in Black culture and the South, as Brewster learned from his father's preaching. • Brewster believes that telling stories and creating films is a more significant way to make an impact than practicing medicine. • Representation of Black characters and their experiences in film and television is important to Brewster, as it was lacking during his childhood. DocuView Dèjà Vu: Michèle: “I Called Him Morgan”, 2017, 92mins, Watch on Amazon Prime, IMDB Link: I Called Him Morgan (2016) - IMDb Joe: Making Do The Right Thing, 1989, 60mins, IMDB Link: Making Do the Right Thing (TV Movie 1989) - IMDb Slaying Goliath, 2008, 70mins, IMDB Link: Slaying Goliath (2008) - IMDb Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:00 Founding Rada Studios 08:45 Award Nominations and Recognition 15:10 The Cinematic Beauty of "Going to Mars" 23:18 Challenges of Making the Film 28:26 Revealing Nikki Giovanni's Story 31:06 Favorite Documentaries: "I Called Him Morgan" and "Slaying Goliath" 39:45 Conclusion

In this episode, host Christian Taylor interviews award-winning editor Yvette Amirian about her journey from documentary to narrative editing. Yvette shares her experiences working on various projects, including "EXmas" and "It Takes a Village". She discusses the differences between editing documentary and narrative films, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of both. Yvette also offers valuable tips for breaking into the film industry, highlighting the importance of building relationships and being kind to others. She shares her perspective on being a woman in the editing industry and the challenges she has faced. The episode concludes with a discussion on choosing the right editing software and the evolution of editing technology. The importance of involving editors from the beginning of a project is emphasized, as well as the value of fresh eyes in the editing process. Yvette recommends the documentaries 'Three Identical Strangers' and 'The Other Side of Home' as must-watch films. Takeaways: • Building and maintaining relationships is crucial in the film industry. • Networking and nurturing genuine connections can lead to opportunities and collaborations. • Breaking into the film industry requires determination, perseverance, and a willingness to take on various roles and projects. • Editing documentary and narrative films have different challenges and skill sets. • Documentaries often require creating a story from scratch, while narratives involve working with scripts and existing footage. • Living and working in Hollywood can provide unique opportunities and challenges. • Having a supportive community and network is essential for success. • Choosing the right editing software depends on the project and industry standards. • Avid Media Composer is widely used in the industry, but other software like Premiere and DaVinci Resolve also have their merits. • Early experiences with editing can shape an editor's understanding and appreciation for the craft. • Involving editors from the beginning of a project can lead to a more cohesive and effective final product. • Fresh eyes in the editing process can provide valuable perspectives and insights. DocuView Déjà Vu: Three Identical Strangers, 2018, 96mins, Watch on Hulu or Prime, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7664504/reference/ The Other Side of Home, 2016 - Short Documentary, 40mins, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5664922/reference/ Watch on Kanopy: https://www.kanopy.com/en Time codes: 00:00 Introduction and Patreon Shoutouts 01:32 Introduction of Guest, Yvette Amirian 03:47 Yvette's Journey from Documentary to Narrative Editing 09:15 Differences Between Editing Documentary and Narrative Films 13:18 Balancing Work and Family Life 15:10 Tips for Breaking into the Film Industry 19:36 The Importance of Building and Maintaining Relationships 22:13 The Value of Collaboration and Kindness in the Industry 27:16 Challenges and Progress for Women in the Editing Industry 30:44 Living and Working in Hollywood 39:49 Choosing the Right Editing Software 41:52 Evolution of Editing Software and Yvette's Experience 42:20 Introduction to Editing and Early Experiences 45:04 Discussion of the Film 'It Takes a Village' 50:05 The Importance of Involving Editors from the Beginning 52:21 Documentary Recommendations: 'Three Identical Strangers' and 'The Other Side of Home' 55:56 Conclusion and Appreciation

In this conversation, Christian Taylor interviews Joe Amodei, CEO of Virgil Films and Entertainment, about the film distribution industry. They discuss the changes in the industry, including the consolidation of companies and the impact of streaming services. Joe emphasizes the importance of collaboration between filmmakers and distributors, as well as the need for filmmakers to be involved in the marketing and distribution process. He also explains how distribution expenses affect the release of a film and the challenges of advertising in the current landscape. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the joy and heartache of the film business, Joe's favorite movies and Oscar predictions. Takeaways • The film distribution industry is undergoing significant changes, including the consolidation of companies and the rise of streaming services. • Filmmakers need to collaborate with distributors and be actively involved in the marketing and distribution process. • Understanding distribution expenses is crucial for filmmakers, as these costs are deducted from the film's proceeds. • Filmmakers should stay informed by reading trade publications and staying up to date with industry trends. • The film business can be both rewarding and challenging, and it requires a love for the industry and perseverance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:48 Virgil Films and Entertainment 06:26 Changes in the Film Industry 08:20 Consolidation of Companies 09:18 Netflix's Strategic Moves 10:26 Opportunities for Independent Filmmakers 12:19 Distribution Expenses 15:02 Collaboration between Filmmakers and Distributors 16:35 The Process of Distributing a Film 21:19 Understanding Distribution Expenses 23:07 Marketing and Advertising Challenges 25:04 Distribution Anecdote 27:15 The Joy and Heartache of the Film Business 28:40 The Importance of Reading Trade Publications 30:20 Favorite Movies and Oscar Predictions 33:02 Recognition in the Entertainment Industry 33:51 Closing Remarks

In this episode, Christian and Chad interview award-winning cinematographer Laela Kilbourn. They discuss her work on the documentary film Girl State, which premiered at Sundance 2024. Laela shares her experiences working with directors and the importance of trust in the DP-director relationship. She also explains the role of prime lenses in cinematography and how they can create a more cinematic look. Laela shares her journey in the film industry, from starting as a film loader to becoming a cinematographer. She discusses the challenges of advancing in the industry and the need to take risks and make sacrifices to pursue your passion. In this conversation, Laela discusses the challenges of building a stable career in filmmaking and the importance of developing relationships with directors and producers. She shares her experiences with discouragement and the determination that kept her going. The impact of strikes and COVID-19 on the industry is also discussed. Laela emphasizes the changing landscape of filmmaking and the opportunities available to new filmmakers. She provides advice for aspiring filmmakers with limited resources and highlights the importance of collaboration. Last of all, Laela shares her experience filming underground in New York and recommends two documentaries: "Morena's" and "Senna". DocuView Déjà Vu: Laela: Morena(s) 2022. 70 mins, IMDB Link: Morena(s) (2022) - IMDb Senna 2010, 106mins, Watch on Amazon, IMDB Link: Senna (2010) - IMDb Chad: Keys to the City: Chronicles of a NY Locksmith, 2023, 32 mins, Link: Keys to the City: Chronicles of a New York Locksmith Christian: Sour Grapes, 2016, 85mins, Watch on multiple streamers (Freevee, Tubi, Plex, Pluto, Roku, Prime) IMDB Link: Sour Grapes (2016) - IMDb Bottle Shock, 2008, Narrative, 110mins, Watch on multiple streamers (Freevee, Tubi, Plex, Pluto, Roku, Prime) , IMDB Link: Bottle Shock (2008) - IMDb Takeaways Trust and collaboration are key in the DP-director relationship. Prime lenses can create a more cinematic look by narrowing the depth of field. Advancing in the film industry often requires taking risks and making sacrifices. Building a client base is crucial for cinematographers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Patreon Support 01:38 Introducing Layla Kilbourn and Her Work 03:35 Debut of Girl State at Sundance 06:35 Working with a Larger Budget 09:10 Working with Directors as a Cinematographer 12:05 The Importance of Trust in the DP-Director Relationship 14:35 The Role of Prime Lenses in Cinematography 16:37 Layla Kilbourn's Background and Journey in Filmmaking 33:03 Transitioning from Assistant Camera to Cinematographer 38:10 The Challenges of Advancing in the Film Industry 39:50 The Challenges of Building a Stable Career 41:40 Dealing with Discouragement and Persistence 43:18 The Impact of Strikes and COVID-19 on Filmmaking 44:47 The Changing Landscape of Filmmaking 45:38 Advice for Filmmakers with Limited Resources 51:51 The Importance of Collaboration in Filmmaking 54:01 Laela's Experience Filming Underground in New York 59:56 Recommended Documentaries

In this episode, Christian Taylor interviews Joe Amodei of Virgil Films Entertainment about the changing landscape of film distribution. They discuss the role of distributors in acquiring and selling the rights to films, the rise of streaming platforms, and the challenges faced by filmmakers in finding trustworthy distributors. Joe shares his insights and experiences from his 20 years in the industry and offers advice for filmmakers considering self-distribution. Takeaways The role of distributors is to acquire and sell the rights to films, including digital platforms, TV channels, DVD, theatrical release, and international markets. While there are aggregators and self-distribution options available, working with a reputable distributor can provide valuable expertise, connections, and resources. Filmmakers should carefully vet distributors and consider their track record, reputation, and transparency before entering into distribution agreements. Docu-View Déjà Vu recommendation: Joe: "George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey" - 1984, 110 mins, Watch on MAX or rent/buy from Amazon, IMDB Link: George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey (1984) - IMDb This film provides insights into the life and work of filmmaker George Stevens, including his experiences filming during World War II. BOOK: “My Place In The Sun” by George Stevens Jr Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Company Update 02:14 Joe Amodei's Background and Virgil Films Entertainment 04:26 The Evolution of Film Distribution 09:00 The Changing Landscape of Film Distribution 12:34 Reaching Out to Distributors and Types of Films Distributed 14:24 The Rise of Aggregators and Self-Distribution 23:35 The Challenges of Finding a Trustworthy Distributor 31:02 Documentary Recommendation: "George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey" Support us on Patreon

On this very special podcast, we honor George Ciampa as Christian shares the news of his recent passing. George Ciampa, a World War II veteran and filmmaker, came on our podcast many times and can be heard on episodes #116, #117, #120, #121. He was born in 1925, served in the Graves Registration Service during WWII, and became a filmmaker in his 80's. You can visit George's website: http://LetFreedomRingForAll.org to learn more about his story. Our first recording with George Ciampa was released in May 2021 and plays after a short introduction by Christian Taylor and Jason Rugg.

In this episode, Jason and Christian provide a year-in-review and updates on their documentary films. They also introduce guest Josh Sharpe, a film/entertainment/theater journalist. Josh shares his background in reporting for cinema and offers tips for conducting interviews. The importance of reviews for filmmakers is discussed, along with the different types of interviews and the process of film reviewing. In this conversation Josh Sharpe discusses the world of movie reviews and how it has evolved with technology. He talks about how some reviewers start their own movie review websites or blogs to review what they want. He emphasizes the importance of writing about and watching as many movies as possible to develop one's own taste and to stay informed. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on film criticism, including the rise of social media platforms like TikTok and podcasting. Takeaways: Starting a personal movie review website or blog is a great way for aspiring film critics to practice their writing and review the films they want. Writing about and watching as many movies as possible is important for developing one's own taste and staying informed about the film industry. Technology has greatly influenced film criticism, with platforms like TikTok and podcasting providing new avenues for people to share their opinions on movies. Film reviewers should strive for objectivity and avoid potential conflicts of interest, such as being paid to promote a movie they are reviewing. DocuView DéjàVu: Josh Sharpe: Best Worst Thing That Could Have Ever Happened, 2016, 95 mins, Watch (Rent/Buy) on Prime or Apple TV, IMDB Link: Best Worst Thing That Ever Could Have Happened (2016) - IMDb Jason: Greta Gerwig & James Cameron from Variety - Directors on Directors Series, 42:21 mins, YouTube, Link: Greta Gerwig & James Cameron | Directors on Directors Christian: A fiction film, “Leave The World Behind”, 2023, 138 mins, Genres: Psychological Thriller, Drama, Mystery, Watch on Netflix, IMDB Link: Leave the World Behind (2023) - IMDb The Movie Proposal Podcast link: The Movie Proposal Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:10 Year in Review and Patreon Support 05:25 Update on "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" 08:08 Update on "Heroes of Carentan" 10:32 Introduction of Guest Josh Sharpe 11:18 Josh Sharpe's Background in Entertainment Reporting 14:21 Tips for Conducting Interviews 19:05 Importance of Reviews for Filmmakers 27:18 Different Types of Interviews 38:39 The Process of Film Reviewing 43:14 Starting a Movie Review Website 45:17 Evolution of Film Criticism with Technology 53:16 Future Goals in Film Criticism 57:28 DocuView DéjàVu: "Best Worst Thing That Ever Could Have Happened" 01:00:14 DocuView DéjàVu: "Variety's Directors on Directors with Greta Gerwig and James Cameron" 01:03:30 DocuView DéjàVu: "Leave the World Behind" 01:05:26 Film Review: "Wonka"

In this episode, filmmakers Mark and Carrie Pedri discuss the challenges they faced in producing their film Dear Sirs. They talk about the difficulties of funding the project and the decision to go with crowdfunding and local grants. They also share their experiences of filming and the importance of storytelling techniques in documentaries. The filmmakers highlight the use of personal moments, music, and archival footage in their film. They recommend the documentary "Minding the Gap" and the series "Harry and Meghan". The episode concludes with information on where to watch "Dear Sirs": https://www.dearsirsfilm.com/. This conversation explores the concept of emotional intelligence and its importance in the various aspects of life including its components, and how to develop it. We also explore the role of emotional intelligence in the workplace, leadership, and relationships. Takeaways Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions as well as the emotions of others. The components of emotional intelligence include self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Developing emotional intelligence involves practicing self-reflection, mindfulness, and active listening. Emotional intelligence is crucial in the workplace for effective communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution. Emotionally intelligent leaders are able to inspire and motivate their team members, and they create a positive work environment. Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in building and maintaining healthy relationships. DocuView DéjàVu Mark: Minding the Gap, 2018, 93mins, watch on Hulu or Amazon, IMDB Link: Minding the Gap (2018) ⭐ 8.0 | Documentary, Sport Christian: Harry & Megan, Documentary Series - 6 Episodes, watch on Netflix, IMDB Link: Harry & Meghan (TV Series 2022) ⭐ 5.1 | Documentary Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:36 Background of Filmmakers 03:05 Challenges of Funding 04:12 Production Decisions 06:36 Crowdfunding Campaign 08:56 Lessons Learned from Crowdfunding 10:41 Challenges of Filming 12:51 Lessons Learned from Production 15:12 Storytelling Techniques 19:59 Incorporating Personal Moments 22:13 Integration of Music in the Film 23:52 Archival Footage and Photos 30:30 Recommendation: "Minding the Gap" 37:54 Recommendation: "Harry and Meghan" 42:21 Where to Watch "Dear Sirs" 01:30 Definition and Importance of Emotional Intelligence 07:45 Components of Emotional Intelligence 14:20 Developing Emotional Intelligence 21:10 Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace 29:40 Emotional Intelligence and Leadership 36:55 Emotional Intelligence in Relationships 43:26 Conclusion

Hey, Documentary First tribe! 🎙️ Get ready for an intimate ride with Mark Pedri and Carrie McCarthy, the dynamic duo behind "Dear Sirs." In Episode #212, we're diving deep into family secrets, WWII revelations, and the magic of storytelling. This isn't just a podcast; it's a personal invitation to join us on an emotional rollercoaster of discovery and the power of sharing untold stories. From a mysterious knife in a grandfather's bed to leaving LA for Wyoming, every moment is a leap of faith. Tune in to hear about their immersive storytelling process, the challenges of connecting with veteran communities, and the unexpected treasures found in the grandfather's house. This conversation is just the beginning; Part 2 awaits with more revelations, emotions, and insights into the making of this incredible documentary. Don't miss out—press play and become part of the "Dear Sirs" journey! Buckle up, hit play, and let's embark on this incredible journey together! 🚀 #DocumentaryFirst #DearSirs #BehindTheScenesMagic DocuView DéjàVu Carrie: Boy’s State, 2020, 109mins, Watch on Apple TV+, IMDB: Boys State (2020) - IMDb Mark & Christian to share their next episode. DF212 Summary Introduction and a message of thanks to listeners for their support. 0:00 Introducing Mark & Carrie Pedri and their recent project, their BIOs and film awards for “Dear Sirs”. 3:58 Finding your audience and engagement, and veteran stories. 7:32 Building a bridge to connecting the civilian community to the military community. How did this story start? 13:10 A man's life and WWII experiences through personal belongings. 20:37 Storytelling techniques to who was the crew and their personal experiences in doing all the things to capture the story. 25:19 Documenting WWII experiences and survivor's guilt. 31:10 WWII veteran's experiences and the importance of archival research and finding the right people to help. 39:12 Hills to climb: Personal and Filmmaking Hills, Editing and Feedback - Critical yet Gentleness and sensitivity is required 48:35 Documentary filmmaking similarities to Ken Burns and the use of music that leads the story telling. 53:44 DocuView DéjàVu 55:57

In this compelling episode of Documentary First, Christian engages in a candid and profound conversation with acclaimed documentary filmmaker Nick Bruckman. The spotlight is on Bruckman's recently released film, "Not Going Quietly," a poignant exploration of resilience featuring the inspiring Ady Barkan. The duo delves into the raw and transparent process of making the film, unraveling the intricate threads of Nick's personal journey into filmmaking, shaped by a family legacy rooted in social advocacy and disability activism. The discussion spans the breadth and depth of "Not Going Quietly," offering insights into Nick's profound connection with Ady Barkan and his family, as well as the transformative impact of bringing this powerful feature to life. As the conversation unfolds, Nick also gives a sneak peek into another upcoming project, "Minted," a documentary delving into the fascinating world of NFTs. Beyond the creative process, the episode ventures into the pragmatic realms of budgeting and distribution, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of filmmaking. Nick shares invaluable advice for aspiring filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of carving out a niche and identifying a marketable skill within the industry to provide income stability. Brimming with wisdom and practical insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the art of documentary filmmaking. Plus, for our Patreon supporters, there's an exclusive extra with Nick where he shares what it’s like to work with Bradly Whitford and The Duplass Brothers! As the episode concludes, the anticipation lingers for future conversations with Nick Bruckman, promising even more captivating discussions on the horizon. Timecodes Documentary filmmaking with Nick Brockman. 0:00 The impact of Ady Barkan and “Not Going Quietly” 3:23 Healthcare activism and personal stories. 8:57 Empathy and connection through documentary filmmaking with Ady. 13:46 Personal experiences with healthcare challenges. 18:07 How did this story come to Nick and how it evolved from a short YouTube promo to a Feature. 24:03 Budget and distribution thoughts. 30:24 “Minted” - All about NFTs and their impact on society. 35:21 Nick’s brief story of getting into filmmaking and advice to filmmakers. 40:44 *No Docuview DéjàVu this week. Nick Bruckman's websites: https://nickny.com/ https://peoples.tv/

In this week's episode of Documentary First, we dive into the heartwarming tale of "Puppy Love," a documentary chronicling the incredible journey of four paralyzed puppies on the road to recovery. What began as Gail's casual filming of her new puppy's antics took an unexpected turn when the pup faced paralysis. This documentary captures the tireless efforts to help the puppies heal, with a diverse team of camera operators capturing every moment. Gail's meticulous editing, guided by screenwriting principles, resulted in a 76-minute emotional rollercoaster that has left audiences laughing and in tears. This project was a labor of love, with volunteers pouring their time and resources into rescuing dogs in need. Remarkably, the production costs stayed under $15,000, thanks to the dedication of everyone involved. The film sheds light on the vital role of raw food company Darwin's, whose sponsorship was born out of a positive impact on one of the featured dogs. Their collaboration is a testament to the potential positive change that can come from these stories. Gail shares valuable lessons for aspiring filmmakers, stressing the importance of dedication, consistency, and never deleting footage or audio. She also highlights the significance of media training and the stark contrast it made in her PR efforts. With recent release on streaming platforms, Gail looks forward to future screenings, including a dream showing at the Museum of the Dog in NYC. She and Christian discuss the distribution process, expressing gratitude for the support from Documentary First and underlining the crucial role of a strong distributor relationship in successful film promotion. In the end, "Puppy Love" stands as a powerful testament to the lengths individuals will go to save an animal, showcasing the enduring power of perseverance, sacrifice, and the bond between humans and animals. Gail's insights into production challenges, collaborative efforts, and future plans for the film offer a captivating glimpse into the world behind this heartwarming documentary. In "Puppy Love" the dogs are put on a raw diet to help with their recovery. It was so successful that they continue eating raw today. Some dogs eat home made raw food and others eat food from Darwin's Natural Pet Products. https://www.darwinspet.com ‌DocuView Déjà Vu: Gail: The Pigeon Tunnel, 2023, 92 mins, Watch on Apple TV+, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28486633/?ref_=ext_shr The Deepest Breath, 2023, 108 mins, Watch on Netflix, IMDB Link; https://www.imdb.com/title/tt24132732/?ref_=ext_shr Timecodes: Filmmaking journey and first feature film. 0:00 Documentary filmmaking and puppy paralysis. 1:46 Filmmaking and storytelling techniques. 7:45 A heartwarming dog rescue story. 12:29 Film distribution and festival run. 17:03 Tips and challenges. 21:31 Sponsorship, budget, and dog health in a documentary. 27:02 Filmmaking costs and distribution. 31:13 Filmmaking and editing & DocuView Déjà Vu. 36:17 Media training. 40:09

Welcome back to another exciting week of Documentary First. In part two of our conversation with documentary legend, Ken Burns, we dive into the vital aspect of collaboration in filmmaking. Ken emphasizes the profound history he shares with two of his current collaborators, who are stepping into new endeavors as his company continues it’s storytelling journey. Drawing an analogy to a conductor orchestrating a musical ensemble, Ken underscores the significance of every individual involved in the filmmaking process. While he acknowledges a roster of long-term collaborators, he underscores a core group of key individuals. Ken's distinctive approach to documentary filmmaking involves eschewing rigid timelines, allowing stories to organically evolve. His mission is to craft narratives of depth and richness, achieved through meticulous research. This ethos means that he and his team are in a perpetual state of pre-production, research, and filming until each project reaches its fullest potential. The conversation pivots towards a statement Ken makes, likening their approach to recording music prior to editing, wherein the music itself dictates the pace and rhythm, rather than being an added layer. Christian seizes this moment to dissect this invaluable nugget of wisdom, highlighting its transformative impact on Ken's filmmaking process. Ken provides illuminating examples of projects where this technique has been applied, emphasizing the primacy of musical integrity. For Christian, this revelation resonates deeply, affirming the choices made while creating "The Girl Who Wore Freedom," a project inspired by Ken's storytelling prowess. Their discussion evolves from music to the integration of sound effects, breathing life into static images. Ken imparts a powerful philosophy: "there's no copyright on technique. There's no copyright on the stuff that we use, there's no copyright even on style," underscoring the open, collaborative nature of the creative process. Yet, even with this rich discussion, we've merely scratched the surface of Ken Burns' intricate filmmaking methodology. In our segment, DocuView Déjà Vu, Ken offers some film recommendations, with Christian guiding him to two standout selections—one from the past and one from the present. In this episode, we also introduce one of Ken’s latest endeavors, "Unum," a unique tool any filmmaker can use as a research tool for their own works or for the public to learn more about historical stories his company has worked to unveil and place into context. Unum can be explored further on his webpage at: Ken Burns UNUM DocuView Déjà Vu Recommendations: Ken: (OLD) The Night Mail, 1936, 25mins, Short Documentary, IMDB Link: Night Mail (1936) - IMDb (NEW) Hollow Tree by Kira Ackerman - Link: Hollow Tree — Hollow Tree (2022) - IMDb Christian: The Roosevelts: An Intimate History, IMDB Link: The Roosevelts: An Intimate History (TV Mini Series 2014) ⭐ 8.8 | Documentary, Biography, History Jason: The American Buffalo, Link: Watch The American Buffalo | A New Documentary from Ken Burns | PBS Timecodes: Filmmaking team and collaboration. 0:00 Filmmaking techniques, scoring and music integration. 4:41 Sound Design & Narration to tell historical stories. 11:44 DocuView Déjà Vu Segment and then some. 19:16

Today, we are honored to host a distinguished figure in the realm of filmmaking, none other than the renowned Ken Burns. With profound admiration for his craft, Christian finds it hard to articulate just how deeply grateful she is for the wisdom and insights Mr. Burns brings to the art of documentary filmmaking. Our conversation with Ken traverses his illustrious journey, commencing with his ability to channel early setbacks into the driving force behind his enduring success. As a producer, Ken's knack for tackling multifaceted challenges is nothing short of extraordinary, guided by a unique perspective that sets him apart in the industry. Above all, we uncover the power of tenacity, of consistently placing one foot in front of the other. Delving into the roots of Ken's storytelling prowess, we learn of the profound influence his first family experiences had on him, igniting a passion that would define his career. Ken's remarkable talent lies in his ability to weave expansive narratives into profoundly personal experiences. He also shares a poignant moment with his father-in-law, who posed the thought-provoking question: "Who are you trying to wake up?" Ken's fascination with the resurrection of history through storytelling comes to the forefront, demonstrating his mastery in infusing emotion to enrapture audiences. With generosity, he provides vivid examples of this craft, drawing from a wellspring of experiences that run deep. This vulnerability, Ken eloquently describes as a form of "emotional archaeology." A privileged glimpse into Ken's latest endeavor awaits, set to grace screens on October 16 & 17 - "The American Buffalo." He graciously unveils the journey, the meticulous creative process, and the profound emotional investment behind this expansive series. Through his work, Ken not only urges us to connect with the human story but also implores us to unearth our best selves and take meaningful action. With so much more to uncover in this enlightening conversation, we'll take a momentary pause. Join us in our next episode as we continue our exploration of the wisdom and insights of this extraordinary filmmaker. While this episode won't feature our DocuView Déjà Vu segment, rest assured, it will make a triumphant return in our next installment. ‌Timecodes: (00:27) - Ken’s (shortened:) BIO (04:17) - Producers are problem solvers (07:07) - How Ken’s origin story influences his work. (11:40) Resurrecting the past in story telling and using emotion to engage the audience. (16:32) Vulnerability in storytelling is emotional archeology. (18:14) - “The American Buffalo” Story (33:22) - Closing remarks - Stay tuned for the next episode. #TheAmericanBuffaloPBS https://kenburns.com/films/the-american-buffalo/

Welcome back, listeners, to another insightful episode of Documentary First! Today, we’re thrilled to have Andrew Cohen, a seasoned expert from Impact 24 PR, back with us. In this installment, we’re diving deep into the world of film promotion, and how filmmakers can truly make their mark with the help of a skilled PR company or publicist. Andrew shares invaluable insights on two fundamental PR principles that every filmmaker should embrace. First and foremost, the importance of kicking off your promotional efforts early, right from the pre-production phase. And secondly, the power of documenting your creative journey. Throughout the episode, Andrew takes us through what these principles look like in action, and the incredible benefits they bring to any project. Christian also lends her own experiences and successes with these principles, shedding light on how she’s integrated them into her own endeavors. But that’s not all! Christian opens up about her initial challenges with her first publicist, and probes Andrew on the crucial factors to consider when seeking the perfect fit. Andrew offers invaluable advice on how the landscape of PR is evolving and emphasizes the need for adaptability and realistic expectations. And as always, he reminds us that networking remains paramount in finding that ideal PR partner. But wait there’s more! Fresh from the bustling scene of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Andrew shares his recent experiences and the exciting trends he observed. To cap it off, Christian puts Andrew on the spot, asking him to unveil his Top 5 Film Festivals that every filmmaker should have on their radar, whether they’ve submitted a film or not. So, grab your notebooks, folks, because today’s episode is packed with actionable strategies and insider tips to elevate your film’s promotional game. Let’s get started! ‌Timecodes: Part 2 – Conversation with Andrew Cohen. 0:00 How can filmmakers up their game? 3:48 How to get the best from hiring the right publicist or PR company? 7:58 Film festivals and networking. 15:36 DocuView Déjà Vu Segment. 23:01 Last Thoughts from Andrew 27:31 DocuView Déjà Vu Recommendations: Andrew: Gimme Shelter, 1970, GP, 91 mins, Prime, IMBD Link: Gimme Shelter (1970) ⭐ 7.8 | Documentary, Music, Thriller Josh: Full Swing, 2023 – Series, Netflix, IMDB Link: Full Swing (TV Series 2023– ) ⭐ 8.0 | Documentary, Sport Christian: Spy OPS, 2023 – Series, Netflix, IMDB Link: Spy Ops (TV Series 2023– ) ⭐ 6.2 | Documentary Andrew Cohen Socials: Email: [email protected] Website: Impact24 Public Relations Instagram: @‌ansecoh Twitter: @‌ascohenpr

Get ready for an episode packed with surprises! First up, our beloved former host, Josh Lindsay, makes a triumphant return, stepping in for Jason Rugg. His presence adds a special spark to today's show. And that's not all - we're also joined by the PR powerhouse, Andrew Seth Cohen from "Impact 24 PR." Discover how Andrew and Christian's paths converged when "Impact 24 PR" extended a helping hand to Documentary First during their electrifying "Emmy" run. Christian's excitement knows no bounds, thanks to the stellar filmmakers that "Impact 24 PR" has introduced to our audience. For filmmakers, navigating the realm of publicists and PR can feel like a mystifying maze. That's precisely why Andrew's insights are invaluable. Beyond his PR wizardry, Andrew is a seasoned animator, adding another layer to his creative repertoire. In this episode, Andrew unveils his deep-seated passion for storytelling and filmmaking, revealing how it seamlessly melded with his role as a PR specialist. He spills the beans on his strategies for propelling films into the Emmy spotlight. We wrap things up with a cliffhanger! What are the common missteps filmmakers make in their PR journey, whether they're teaming up with a publicist or going solo? The answer lies in our next episode, so be sure to tune in! ‌Timecodes: Introduction to Andrew Seth Cohen and his story 00.00 Emmy campaign strategies for filmmakers. 9:33 Filmmaking, awards, budget and PR strategies. 14:01 DocuView Déjà Vu Segment. 19:05 ‌ DocuView Déjà Vu Recommendation links: Andrew: The Two Escobars, 2010, 104mins, ESPN 30 for 30 or Disney+, IMDB Link: The Two Escobars (2010) ⭐ 8.1 | Documentary, Biography, Sport Josh: Quarterback, 2023, Series, Netflix, IMDB Link: Quarterback (TV Series 2023– ) ⭐ 8.1 | Documentary, Sport Christian: “Ganz normale Manner - Der vergessene Holocaust” (Ordinary Men), 2022, 58mins, Netflix, IMDB Link: Ganz normale Männer - Der 'vergessene Holocaust' (TV Movie 2022) ⭐ 7.0 | Documentary, History, War

This week, embark on a musical journey with Nicolas Humberto Repetto, a composer whose roots trace back to Argentina before finding a new home in sunny Florida at the tender age of five. His enchantment with music, especially the violin, as well as his gift for composition and orchestration, bloomed during his formative middle school years. The intoxicating harmonies of triumph and the seductive allure of composition and orchestration beckoned Nicolas to the sprawling landscapes of LA. Here, he delved deeper into his passion for film scoring, skillfully merging it with cutting-edge technology. Discover the riveting tale of how Nicolás Humberto Repetto sculpted the original score for a new feature documentary, “A Run for More,” which made it’s debut on Apple Music, May 3, 2023, followed by a widespread digital release. This cinematic masterpiece, directed by Pulitzer Prize-winner, Ray Whitehouse, unravels the compelling narrative of Frankie Gonzales-Wolfe—a transgender luminary vying for a seat in the San Antonio city council. Join Christian and Jason as they dive into Nicolas’ creative process and unravel the pivotal dynamic between Director and Composer. Hear the invaluable lessons gleaned from the crucible of experience, exploring the art of scoring on a budget and the exhilaration of orchestrating with a full-fledged symphony. Peek behind the curtains of the human psyche, discovering the interplay of emotions and music, and delve into the subtle “psychology” that underpins collaborative artistry. As tradition dictates, we conclude this week’s “composition” with DocuView Déjà Vu, coupled with a succinct company update. Timecodes: • Introduction to Nicolás Repetto. 0:00 • **How did you become interested in music?** 2:47 • Films Nicolas has worked on and what work he is most proud of. 7:20 • How “A Run for More” came to be and Nicolas’ process in working on the score 12:39 • Defining some music terminology. 18:52 • **The Composer / Director Relationship and the importance of chemistry.** 24:03 • Words of advice and lessons learned. 33:55 • What Nicolas is most proud of in “A Run for More”? 39:44 • DocuView Déjà Vu 40:50 Related Links: "A Run For More" Documentary: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt20562778/ Hollywood scores and soundtracks. What do they sound like by Every Frame a Painting: https://youtu.be/IEfQ_9DIItI No Film School website: https://nofilmschool.com/ No Film School article: https://nofilmschool.com/composer-collaboration DocuView Déjà Vu: Nicolas: The Sound of Identity, 2020, 90 mins, Freevee/The Roku Channel/Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10156584/ Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed, 2023, 104mins, Max / Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13514636 Christian: Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story, 2017, 88mins, Netflix / Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6752848/

Get ready for an emotional and captivating journey in this week's episode of Documentary First. Join hosts Christian and Jason as they dive deep into an heartfelt conversation with none other than Craig Renaud, an acclaimed Peabody award-winning filmmaker. Brace yourself for a raw and touching exchange as Craig opens up about his personal connection to his latest project "SOUTHERN STORYTELLERS."Venture into the world of "SOUTHERN STORYTELLERS," a mesmerizing three-part miniseries that escorts you into the heart of the American South. Craig Renaud, known for his prowess in bringing compelling stories to life, introduces us to some of the region's most influential creators. Through his lens, we get to journey alongside these remarkable individuals and explore the very essence of the places they call home.But this isn't just any project for Craig – it's a poignant departure from his norm. For the first time, he's embarking on a creative endeavor without his brother and longtime collaborator, Brent. The bond between these two was unbreakable, forged through countless shared experiences. As Craig delves into their gripping journey, he recounts their early days of covering global conflicts and reveals the heart-wrenching truth about Brent, the first American journalist tragically lost in the turmoil of Ukraine in 2022.The conversation delves even deeper into Craig's creative process, unveiling the intricate threads that weave his documentaries into compelling narratives. Tune in as he shares the intimate details of how "SOUTHERN STORYTELLERS" emerged from his own healing journey – a project that became more than just a film, but a means to cope with loss.But that's not all – hear exclusive insights into Craig's upcoming projects, including a touching tribute to his brother Brent. Amidst the anecdotes and industry wisdom, Craig reminds us that mistakes are an inevitable part of the creative process and offers a powerful dose of encouragement for those who might be on the brink of giving up.Of course, no episode of Documentary First is complete without our DocuView Déjà Vu segment, offering a fresh perspective on past gems. Plus, Christian provides a company update and a sneak peek into what's on the horizon – a future episode featuring Craig, where he unravels the challenges faced by independent filmmakers striving to carve a niche and make their mark. Learn firsthand the art of collaborating with PBS, especially when it comes to showcasing the magic of documentary films.Don't miss this chance to embark on an emotional rollercoaster, as Craig Renaud's story resonates deeply and reminds us of the power of storytelling, healing, and the unbreakable bonds that shape our lives. Tune in now!Timecodes:Introduction to Craig Renaud. 0:00Working with his brother Brent Renaud & John Alpert. 1:47How to make peace with the loss. 8:43The process of doing a documentary without Brent. 12:19Getting to know them as people. 20:37Sticking to the story and not the story. 28:55Finding archival footage for the film. 33:31Getting comfortable with making mistakes. 40:17DocuView Déjà Vu 42:44Craig: Summer of Soul, 2021, PG-13, Hulu / Prime Video, 118mins, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11422728/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1Christian: Mercury 13, 2018, 78 mins, Netflix, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8139850/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_q_mercury%252013Jason: “Master Cinematographer Conrad Hall, ASC talk cinematography” , 124mins, Youtube Link: Master Cinematographer CONRAD HALL ASC Talks CinematographyChristian’s Company update. 47:42Find more information about Brent and his work and mentoring, including his foundation and mentorship, below on the websites.http://BrentRenaudFoundation.orglink: HOME | Renaud B Redesign

Get ready for a riveting ride in this week's podcast episode as we delve into the mesmerizing world of original music. Hosts Christian and Jason are joined by two master composers who are also part of the remarkable music collective, Bleeding Fingers Music. Hold on to your headphones, because these composers, Kara Talve and Anže Rozman, aren't just any ordinary talents – they're the musical maestros mentored by none other than the legendary Hans Zimmer himself! Listen to Kara and Anže discuss their inspiring symphony (no pun intended) of passion for music and film composition. Prepare to be get a little jealous as they recount the incredible privilege of being under the tutelage of Hans Zimmer. But brace yourselves for more than just a walk past memory lane; They experimented with musical instruments never invented before on their latest masterpiece, Pre-Historic Planet II. But wait, there's a plot twist! The second half of the episode takes an unexpected turn with Christian's overdue update. Picture this: a double screening extravaganza in the vibrant setting of Ormond Beach, Florida, coupled with a serendipitous encounter with new friend, Michelle. Then, get ready to time-travel as Christian recounts her captivating journey to Fort Campbell, KY. She unearthed treasures hidden deep within the WWII archives at the Pratt Museum that will breathe life into the "Heroes of Carentan" project. Feel the surge of excitement as Christian and Zach Callaghan craft this narrative masterpiece over the upcoming weeks. Tune in now to experience the crescendo of creativity, mentorship, musical marvels, unexpected encounters, and the forging of epic historical tales. Timecodes: Introduction of our guests. 0:00 Prehistoric Planet is available on Apple TV. Some of the credits are incredible, including BBC's "The Universe, and the Planets" and IMAX feature "The Great Bear Rainforest" (co-composed with Hans Zimmer), and the opening title music for "Frozen Planet II." Kara Talve has worked on Prehistoric Planet alongside Hans Zimmer and is principal composer on "The Simpsons." Kara and Anže’s background. 4:15 Creative process for prehistoric music. 12:50 The creative process for the Prehistoric Planet series and how it was different from the rest of the series. The idea of making instruments out of fossil materials. The last instrument built for season two is the "Tricera-tone," built out of a metal triceratops fossil replica with a double bass neck. Nominated for an Emmy. 16:59 Kara talks about being nominated for an Emmy and how she was shocked and honored to be nominated by her peers. Kara recommends "The Staircase" on Netflix which is about the murder trial of Michael Peterson in the mid 2000s. Anze recommends "Ancient Apocalypse" on Netflix which is a docu-series about the theory of civilizations during the Ice Age. Advice. 20:55 Anze’s advice on how to make a career in Los Angeles, and why passion is the most important thing to note in any field. Kara's last parting word of advice: Be personable. Documentary First company update. 24:55 Company update, “The Girl Who Wore Freedom” screening in Ormond Beach, Florida at a museum. Fort Campbell, Kentucky. 30:19 Christian went to Fort Campbell, Kentucky to do more research at the Pratt museum and met her new hero, Pat Seeling, who is the historian at the Pratt Museum. A motherload of information useful for Doc First's next project , including a book from one of the heroes of the movie. DocuView Déjà Vu Recommendation from Christian is “The Changing Hollywood Landscape” podcast. Key takeaways from the strike. 35:35 Companies like Disney, Amazon and Apple are not in the business of entertainment. They are in the business of advertising and selling things, solely focusing on continuing to make money. Matt Damon and Ben Affleck's new production company, Equity Filmmaking, is trying to see if there is a new model. The movie Oppenheimer is a must-see in theatres. DocuView Déjà Vu Recommendations Kara Talve: The Staircase 2004, Netflix, IMDB Link: The Staircase (TV Mini Series 2004–2018) ⭐ 7.8 | Documentary, Crime, Drama Anze Rozman: Ancient Apocalypse, 2002, Netflix, IMDB Link: Ancient Apocalypse (TV Series 2022– ) ⭐ 7.3 | Documentary, History, Sci-Fi Christian: A podcast on Fresh Air at NPR, with Terry Gross and Lucas Shaw of Bloomberg called “The Changing Hollywood Landscape” The Changing Hollywood Landscape : Fresh Air

In part 2 of “Human Footprint” Christian and Jason continue their chat with the creators and directors of Human Footprint, Neil Losin & Nate Dappen. Listen to how Neil & Nate filmed the series on a budget, with a small crew of a maximum of 5 people. Hear some of their favorite experiences while grinding and pushing their team to the limit. Seeing elephants from a helicopter and people on dog sleds hunting Polar Bears are just two of the experiences that have marked their lives while making Human Footprint. Music is key to setting the tone and emotion to visuals. We learn about their connection with PBS helping out with some of the licensing of the music used as well as how their “Hip-Hop” composer Andy Young came to be a part of the project. To close, Neil & Nate gave their pearls of wisdom and pieces of advice to filmmakers. Along with Christian’s best reminder of not getting discouraged, don’t give up - DO NOT QUIT!!! PBS Link: https://www.pbs.org/show/human-footprint/ Intro to Documentary First. 0:00 Welcome back to Documentary First, continuing the conversation with Nate & Neil from Human Footprint. What was the budget and how was it used, travel and music? Traveling for the show. 1:20 A lot of travel for 120 days of filming. Shooting in 44 different cities, 80 beds, sets, states, Arctic Sea Ice. Shooting 4 different acts for 4 different episodes Allot of pre-production and research in preparation for all the travel. Starbucks budget larger than the actual food budget…… Team of 5 people max. Pushing everyone to their limits. Shooting dogs, rats, starlings, cities and cities. How they economized their travel costs. 5:47 Listen to people and give them what they need. Learned to economize in various ways. Neil’s unique experience and favorite place The evolution of tusklessness and elephants. Flying over the park in a helicopter. Nate’s most unique experience. 10:05 Episode about how dogs have shaped culture. Unique experience in the Arctic with a young Inuit sled dog hunter. Arctic adventure. The sun doesn't set in the summer - losing track of time, skeleton crew, a wild experience even trying to get there. Hunting polar bears on the sea ice. 12:44 Polar bear hunting on the sea ice. The cinematography of the first episode. Three highly trained, highly skilled shooters on the project. A lot of collaboration and sponsorship from Canon with lenses to help bring cinema-level quality. Taking the visuals very seriously. Intuitive filmmaking and music budget. 17:32 Biology and natural history as a fact factor. Having veteran natural history shooters on the project. Music budget and getting the rights. Wanting a 90’s HipHop aesthetic - fresh and vibrant Using popular tracks and licensing them where possible. PBS has a special arrangement for music - “A compulsory license” - Nate & Neil explain. Distribution from PBS to elsewhere changes everything How much of the music is composed? How Adrian Young got involved in the project. How the music came together. Creating a modern look and style. 24:41 Creating a modern, modern feel for the series. Allowed each editor to show what they think it should look like. How Andy Laub became lead editor. Has an extensive back ground including music editing. How the editing style was developed for the show. A group brainstorming session to help guide this. A combination of the action sports, the traditional Natural History science world, mixed with modern social media type style Biggest challenge for Neil. Knowing what’s enough in the episodes. 29:04 Hardest thing for a series like this. Physical and emotional grind of filming. Striking a balance between documentary and information and not be “preachy'. DocuView Déjà Vu recommendations. 4 Recommendations one of which was “My Octopus Teacher” - recommended previously (See the other 3 recommendations listed below). Advice for filmmakers. 34:12 Neil & Nate's best piece of advice for new filmmakers. DocuView Déjà Vu Nate: 100 Foot Wave, Series 2021, HBOMax, IMDB Link: 100 Foot Wave (TV Series 2021– ) ⭐ 8.1 | Documentary, Sport My Octopus Teacher, 2020, 85 mins, Netflix, IMDB Link: My Octopus Teacher (2020) ⭐ 8.1 | Documentary Chimp Empire, S2023, Series, Netfilx, IMDB Link: Chimp Empire (TV Mini Series 2023) ⭐ 8.3 | Documentary Jago: Alife Underwater, 2015, 48 mins, Watch on Amazon or Curiosity, IMDB Link: Jago: A Life Underwater (2015) ⭐ 7.4 | Documentary

Witness an unexpected journey of science and photography colliding with filmmaking to become an amazing PBS series called “Human Footprint”. Who said science couldn’t be engaging and thought provoking? In this Part 1 episode, Christian and Jason chat with the creators and directors of “Human Footprint”, Neil Losin & Nathan Dappen. They tell us their journey of making “terrible” videos, a partnership with fellow geek scientist Shane Campbell-Staton and the serendipitous connection to PBS that allowed them to share their vision: cultivating a love for science, looking after the Earth and observing mankind’s impact on the environment and culture. This is an amazing journey into filmmaking from an unconventional starting point. The perseverance, grind and fun along the way, including making connections with the right people at the right time, result in a great story about getting funding from unconventional sources. Timecodes: Introduction to our guests. 0:00 How the series came to be. 2:51 The hopeful impact and awareness of story on the viewer. 7:01 How they met and started collaborating. 10:54 Living on two different coasts and have never lived int he same place and possibly see each other more than their partners. 17:39 How long did it take to get the show greenlit? 21:42 How did they get to the pitch point? 28:18 The importance of getting a grant. 32:25 How did you did the grants help to get you started? 36:39 How did you pitch the idea to PBS? 41:30 What was the budget for the series? 46:02 The difference between producing and directing. 52:10 DocuView Déjà Vu 55:13 Documentary First Update 1:05:21 DocuView Déjà Vu: NEIL: “Particle Fever”, 2013, 99 mins, Watch on “Curiosity Stream” with a subscription, IMDB Link: Particle Fever (2013) ⭐ 7.4 | Documentary JASON: Check out “Human Footprint”, 2023, PBS, Series, IMDB Link: Human Footprint (TV Series 2023– ) ⭐ 6.8 | Documentary

Welcome to the latest episode of Documentary First, as we celebrate a momentous achievement: Our 200th Episode! Join Christian and Jason as they dive deep into the past four years of our thought-provoking and inspiring podcast. Together, they remind us of the indispensable quality that every filmmaker must possess: tenacity. Prepare to be encouraged and motivated as they unveil the secrets to success in the ever-evolving world of cinema. For a filmmaker, perseverance is the key that unlocks the gateway to the stars. These stars can take many forms, both figurative and literal, representing the pinnacle of our aspirations. Just like steadfast guides, the stars watch over us, ever-present and within our grasp. They serve as a constant reminder that even though our goals may seem distant, they remain visible and within reach. With every courageous step we take towards our cinematic vision, we are bound to encounter challenges along the way. But fear not! These very adversities become the stepping stones that lead us towards the dazzling radiance of the stars we were destined to reach. Get ready to be inspired as we continue to share the remarkable odyssey of filmmaking. We have an abundance of new, talented filmmakers waiting in the wings, eager to join us and delve into their unique processes and awe-inspiring experiences. It's a rollercoaster ride you won't want to miss! And that's not all! Brace yourselves, because DocuView Déjà Vu is making a triumphant return! Get ready to rediscover your love for documentary films and relive those unforgettable cinematic moments. So buckle up, dear listeners, as we embark on another thrilling chapter filled with passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of our cinematic dreams. Welcome to a podcast that will ignite your imagination and leave you craving more. Let's make magic happen together! Summary Intro to Documentary First. 0:00 Welcome back to Documentary First and inside look at a documentary filmmaker journey. Episode 200. How the podcast was born. Being an improviser as a filmmaker. 6:01 Finding volunteers and flying people across the world. Being an improviser, solving problems. Journey from not finished movie to completed movie. Heroes of Carentan. How the film industry has changed. 10:59 How the world has changed since pre-Covid. The challenges for independent filmmakers. The art of turning adversity into advantage. The difference between a filmmaker and everyone else. The best piece of advice Jason has ever gotten. Do the next thing first. How did Jason become a voice actor? 17:28 Pursuing voice acting and animation. How the pandemic changed the animation industry. How Covid-19 has lowered the standards of what is acceptable. Tiktok vs Instagram. The problem with Social Media and content. 21:26 How people consume Tiktok and Instagram reels. How film is designed to make you feel. Making a deal with the devil. Why independent filmmakers need to market their films. The marketing strategy for "God's Not Dead". Encounter with General JP McGee. 28:21 How Christian met General JP McGee, commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division. Partnership with the 101st Airborne Division Powerful interviews with the 101st Airborne Division. The synergy of past and present coming through the interviews The cost of combat. Do not give up on your film. 34:11 Heart comes through in everything at Doc First. Word of encouragement, don't quit. DocuView Déjà Vu Segment Book: The Obstacle is the Way Coming soon to the podcast - New filmmakers in the wings! DocuView Déjà Vu: Jason - Still: A Michael J Fox Movie, 2023, Rated R, 95 mins on Apple+, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt19853258/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_still Christian - The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, Rated R, 2023, 97 mins, Rent or buy on Prime Video or inflight in United Airlines, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12380422/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_7_tt_8_nm_0_q_the%2520sublte “A Man Called Otto” - 2022, 126 mins, PG13, in flight on United Airlines, IMDB Link:https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7405458/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_a%2520man%2520called

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Documentary First! In this week's continuation from last week's episode, we dive deeper into the fascinating world of film festivals and film markets. Joe Amodei, our experienced distributor and filmmaker, shares valuable insights and personal experiences that every filmmaker should know. If you're passionate about filmmaking, you definitely don't want to miss this! At the 2023 Film Festival in Cannes, Joe had 33 meetings where he pitched his films and listened to other pitches. He takes us through this experience and shares the lessons he’s learned, highlighting what he would do differently next time (01:06). The landscape of the film industry is changing, with the merging of premium cable channels and streaming platforms leading to a shift in distribution strategies. Filmmakers and distributors are now focusing more on transactional and A-VOD sites, like Tubi, Pluto, Amazon, and iTunes. This change opens up opportunities for a wider range of genres and films from different countries to gain acceptance (02:15). Joe reflects on the transformation he's witnessed in the market, for one, he now feels more comfortable approaching booths from other countries, a stark contrast to the hesitations he’s had in the past (05:11). Christian raises an important question about who the target consumers are for movies considering the lack of information shared by streamers. Joe shares his observations, revealing that streamers like Netflix are increasingly focused on international growth rather than solely on the United States. This shift presents both advantages and limitations for filmmakers who are seeking opportunities overseas (05:53). Joe has been in the movie biz for 20 years and he shares how he deals with beginning filmmakers and those with more extensive backgrounds differently. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and having honest conversations regarding the future of the industry (07:18). The conversation takes a reflective turn as Christian asks Joe whether filmmakers should continue to make films. Joe's replies by stating the resilience of the film industry and emphasizes the importance of creating quality content (10:05). Exploring popular genres, Joe and Christian discuss current trends. From horror to true crime, teen romantic dramas, comedies, family films, and even faith-based movies, each genre presents unique opportunities (13:18). The discussion then shifts to documentaries, a genre that poses challenges in terms of profitability. Christian and Joe engage in a lively debate about the difficulties faced by documentary filmmakers in making money (17:04). Towards the end, Christian and Joe remind us of their unwavering passion for filmmaking. They share heartfelt stories about the power of film to make a difference in people's lives and society as a whole (20:55). Wrapping up the episode, Christian expresses gratitude for distributors like Joe Amodei and his team for prioritizing genuine relationships and care for filmmakers over purely chasing financial gain (26:40). We extend our sincere thanks to Joe, Jason, and Christian for their valuable contributions to this enlightening episode. And a special thank you to all our listeners for joining us on this incredible journey of storytelling. Remember, everyone has a story to tell, and you can be the one to tell it! Please note that there is no DocuView Déjà Vu segment in this episode.

This episode is one of a 2-part series where Christian and Jason talk with Joe Amodei about his recent trip to the Cannes Film Festival. 00:50 - Joe describes himself as “a film geek.” He explains why he prides himself in being referred to as not a “suit.” 03:34 - Joe’s involvement with Oscar Best Picture, “Gosford Park.” 07:27 - An inside look at Cannes. 09:29 - What it was like promoting a documentary called “The Third Wave” (IMDB: The Third Wave (2007) - IMDb). 11:59 - Christian reviews her experience going to Sundance Film Festival 13:03 - Joe shares the difference between the 2 festivals, such as no Q&A’s at Cannes. 15:21 - How to get into Cannes Film Festival, both practical and impractical ways 18:23 - Joe makes it clear that he goes to “Cannes every year not to attend the film festival. But to attend the film market.” 23:09 - Joe explains the role of a distributor at film festivals. 25:45 - Christian asks what an independent filmmaker should do to maximize the film festivals, they unpack some very blunt, straight-forward steps. 29:47 - Joe makes the following profound statement “if you're looking to sell your movie, looking to raise money, make revenue to pay back investors, then these film festivals aren't going to do anything for you. BUT being at a film MARKET, walking around and trying to sell your film, to countries all over the world, and being a part of the industry, is where you need to be to be a part of the film industry” 32:48 - Joe reiterates his encouragement to young filmmakers and producers that help is available. 34:36- Joe warns NOT to be clueless about the industry you are in. You have to read the trades. You have to subscribe to Variety, Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter, and Indie Wire, even if it costs you $200 a year. It is well worth it. You have to stay up with the trades. If you don't, you're going to get lost. It's really an ongoing education. Things are changing in the business almost every day. Part 2 of this 2-part series will be released later this month. NOTE - NO DocuView DejaVu this episode

We're picking up right where we left off from the last episode, talking about AI and how it relates to sound design with Nathan Ruyle. Nathan Ruyle - IMDb Nathans Company “This Is Sound Design” website: This is Sound Design 00:12 - Right out the gate Christian, Jason and Nathan discuss AI vs. good live sound recordings. We discuss that “the tools are only as good as the material you're feeding it.” There is no way around in achieving greatness unless you are investing in quality material. 03:30 - The AI discussion leads to asking about location sound and its challenges. Location sound is very different from sound design and final mix. Hear how Nathan unpacks these differences in reference to his movie “Citizen Sleuth”. 04:29 - Nathan shares how he used spectral tools to identify sounds in his documentary; yet due to use of camera audio and limited crew, there were still challenges in parsing them out. Even big budget films face audio challenges, which further highlights the nature of the industry. 07:42 - Nathan discusses how narrative and documentary filmmaking informs each other. In both narrative and documentary films, the use of Foley is essential to capturing the complete soundscape. Even with high-quality sound recording, certain details like footsteps or subtle moments may be missed. Therefore, techniques like Foley are crucial in both types of films to enhance the overall experience. 09:36 - Christian points out there is a difference between Foley and sound effects. 12:28 - History of Jack Foley & Foley experiences 16:32 - The legalities and clearance for the music 18:16 - Foley and music for the HBO Documentary called “United Skates”. 22:52 - Christian explains some terms, such as what are “stems”? 24:07 - Christian asks on behalf of new filmmakers who are still working in lower budget independent films. Do they have any ability to hire Nathan and his team at all? She asks him to give some sort of budget spectrum that they work on for all kinds of different films? And what does the look like in terms of rates. Nathan gives an overview of what his team can provide. They have an ultra low budget rate sheet, where it kind of breaks down three budget options in great detail where you can see all the different parts of the process. 27:08 - Nathan’s company “This Is Sound Design” recently released “Joyland”. IMDB: Joyland (2022) - IMDb If you're in LA or want to come to LA and need help for a movie, they would be more than happy to have you visit for a tour. 31:04 - DocuView Déjà Vu Jason: “Citizen Sleuth” (2023), 23 mins, IMDB: Citizen Sleuth (2023) - IMDb Currently in the film festival run, check out the Instagram for film festival details. Keep an eye on Nathan's website for an announcement as to when its going to be released to see for the public. https://www.instagram.com/citizensleuthmovie/ Christian: “King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones” (2022), 99 mins, IMDB: King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones (2022) - IMDb This movie too, is in its festival run; so it can't be watched, save for at film festivals. Nathan: “United Skates” (2018), 89 mins, IMDB (Available on HBO Max): United Skates (2018) - IMDb

Get ready for an engaging episode of the podcast, where Christian and Jason chat with Nathan Ruyle, the sound designer behind the hit film "Citizen Sleuth." With over 100+ credits to his name, Nathan has an impressive BIO and a wealth of knowledge when it comes to sound design. In part one of this deep dive, Nathan discusses his creative approach to sound design and how it helped to bring the mystery of the film to life. Nathan Ruyle - IMDb Nathans Company “This Is Sound Design” website: This is Sound Design At 01:53, Nathan sums up the unique sound design in "Citizen Sleuth" and how it was used to create an experiential feeling for the audience. Without relying on reenactments, Nathan used sound to immerse the audience in the experience of the crime, making them feel as though they were right there at the scene. ‌ Christian shares at 05:17 how she realized the importance of communicating emotions to the composer and sound department to ensure that the audience is moved through the story by the driving forces of sound and music. Nathan's approach to sound design is from a creative perspective, and he sees it as an opportunity to problem-solve and use his imagination. ‌ At 08:13, Nathan explains how his work encompasses all facets of post-production sound and how he and his team designed the sound to match the look and feel of the story. Christian asks Nathan to sum up the sound of the film and Nathan gives a captivating answer that will leave you intrigued. ‌ At 14:29, Christian picks out two examples from the film to discuss how Nathan and his team handled the sound in those moments. Nathan also explains mediated voices and mediated technology. ‌ At 15:42 and how it adds character and feeling to the story. Jason was curious about how Nathan made the dialogue consistent, even when recorded in different locations, and Nathan explains his technique in detail at 23:35. ‌ As this episode went a little long, Christian, Jason, and Nathan decided to split it into two parts. Be sure to tune in to part two to hear more about AI-specific tools and other interesting sound design topics. And don't forget to catch the next episode, where DocuView Déjà Vu takes center stage!

Step right up, folks! This week on Documentary First, we're shaking things up and diving into the world of narrative filmmaking. Our special guest is none other than D. Mitry, a talented writer, director, and producer whose short films have won international acclaim. D. Mitry's new film, “Hedgehog”, is taking the festival circuit by storm, and he's here to share his top three tools for any filmmaker looking to create a powerful, impactful story. But first, let's talk about D. Mitry's fascinating backstory. Born in the Soviet Union, D. Mitry didn't launch his filmmaking dream until 2015, but since then, his work has made waves across the globe. He's the mastermind behind “My True Fairytale”, a feature film that pays tribute to his daughter Alyssa after her tragic passing. This deeply personal project was acquired for worldwide distribution by Gravitas Ventures and had its world premiere at Cinequest in March 2021. Now D. Mitry has a new film on the horizon: “Hedgehog”. This short film explores the conflict between Ukrainian and Russian forces through the eyes of a young girl and a wounded soldier. D. Mitry discusses the challenges of telling a powerful story with minimal words and allowing images and stillness to speak for themselves. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong "movie family" of passionate collaborators who share a love for the project. And what about those top three tools for filmmakers? D. Mitry's first tool is "Economy of Writing," which means using every element of your story to its fullest potential to avoid overwriting. This is especially important for indie filmmakers who must be resourceful and conscientious about their budget. His second tool describes "movie family" as a group of collaborators who share a love for the project and thus can weather any challenges that come their way. Finally, D. Mitry stresses the importance of choosing a story that speaks to one on a personal level and has the power to make an impact in the world. So buckle up, folks, and get ready for a thrilling ride through the world of narrative filmmaking with D. Mitry on Documentary First! Social Media Links for The Hedgehog Film Website: https://www.thehedgehogfilm.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehedgehogfilm/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHedgehogFilm ** DocuView Déjà Vu: Dmitry: “Reggie's Forest” & “The Girl Who Wore Freedom” Reggie’s Forest IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14014074/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1 The Girl Who Wore Freedom: https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/ Jason: The Prestige TV Podcast - Episodes discussing Season 4 of “Barry” on HBO - Discussions with the director and actor. Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7ggiKF2wHHPcbyRAYbJO4o?si=94f568975f2d4571 Christian: "Eyewitness: D-Day", 2019, 44 mins IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10885884/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1 Quick Company Update: On May 19, 2023, the Doc First team will be attending the 80th Anniversary Ball for the 101st Airborne Division at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, TN which is open to anyone in the community (Tickets for “Community Invitees” are $105). The next day, May 20th, there will be a screening of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" at the 101st Airborne home in Fort Campbell, Kentucky (Follow our socials for more details). Christian will be attending both events and then heading to Normandy for D-Day with World War II veterans on a Delta charter flight. Thanks to a wonderful partner at the 101st ABD (Air Assault), we are collaborating with the division on Instagram, as they share our micro-docs to raise awareness and build our audience. We encourage you to follow our journey on Instagram (@documentaryfirst), Facebook (Documentary First), Twitter (@doc_first), and TikTok (@documentaryfirst). 00:00 - 02:52 - Introduction 02:52 - D. Mitry’s Bio 03:34 - The Hedgehog Film Synopsis 04:34 - Christian & Jason share their experience of viewing Hedgehog. 13:30 - Toolkit item number 3 - Story (Part 1) 14:25 - Toolkit item number 1 - Economic Writing 24:21 - Toolkit time number 2 - A Movie Family 34:35 - Toolkit time number 3 - Story (part 2) 36:32 - Jason asks about D. Mitry’s vision and what actually made it to the screen 39:05 - Christian shares what she thinks is D. Mitry’s best tool. 39:50 - The film festival run for The Hedgehog Film 42:21 - Praise and thanks for family, cast & crew - it takes “a movie family” 45:37 - DocuView Déjà Vu 51:32 - A quick update

Join hosts Christian and Jason as they dive deep into the ever-changing world of filmmaking with seasoned filmmaker, Joe Amodei. With over 20 years of firsthand experience and a passion for film history, Joe shares invaluable insights on the business side of filmmaking in this thought-provoking episode. Discover the Top 5 things every filmmaker needs to know to succeed in this dynamic industry. From mastering the distribution business by staying updated with trade publications, to immersing yourself in diverse movies from all eras to learn from the masters, Joe's advice is practical and eye-opening. Understand how film marketing in the digital era has changed as traditional print media is no longer dominant. Learn how to effectively promote your film using social media and other modern strategies to get the word out and attract audiences. Joe explains that as a filmmaker, you're not just an artist, you're also a businessperson. Setting clear objectives for your film, whether to gain exposure, make money, or reach a wide audience will enhance your workflow. If you're a filmmaker looking to thrive in today's ever-evolving landscape, this episode is a must-listen. Gain valuable insights from Joe Amodei's wealth of experience and elevate your understanding of the multifaceted world of filmmaking. Get ready to be inspired, educated, and motivated to take your film career to new heights. Time Codes 0:00 - Jason introduces Joe 1:08 - Transformation of the film industry over the years 2:07 - How Joe has seen the film industry change over the last 20 years. 8:22 - Renting movies vs owning movies 9:18 - Christian shares a VHS story 13:20 - How did Netflix react to the streaming revolution? 19:20 - Knowing the business of business 25:18 - Advertising your film to your audience 28:48 - The 4 Top Trades to read 29:41 - Christian parallels the film industry with the acting industry - understand your market 30:41 - Top 5 Things: 1. Learn the distribution business as best you can, get every trade and read them. (Listen to the episode to hear which ones!) 33:18 - 2. Watch movies, all kinds, all the time from all ages, learn the masters. 35:35 - 3. Educate yourself on film marketing, and how in a no print world, you can get the word out about your film, learn social media. 37:25 - Christian shares a real life scenario 42:14 - 4. Determine your objective with your film. Have people see it? Make money? Exposure? Determine your objective before you even start, and make a plan to achieve it. 44:57 - 5. When you make a film you're opening a business. You must understand the basic principles of business in order to achieve your goals. 50:19 - DocuView Déjà Vu Joe: Fire of Love, 2022, 98 mins, IMDB: Fire of Love (2022) - IMDb Christian: Sr., 2022, 89 mins, IMDB: Sr. (2022) - IMDb

In this episode Jason Rugg, our loyal host and trusty dusty button pushing guy, is our guest guru on animation and how animation in documentary filmmaking is making a resurgence. With Jason’s extensive background in animation, Christian questions Jason about how animation works and they discuss the history, as well as the pros and cons of using animation in documentary storytelling. Referencing this article, Christian and Jason unpack how the animation revival mentioned is still relevant in today’s filmmaking. Additionally, they dive into the various aspects of animation and motion graphics within storytelling and film making with these various examples: The Sinking of the “Lusitania” “Ryan” a short by Chris Landreth (2004) They also discuss costs of animation referencing these films: “A Head Shorter” by Sasha Bortnik “An Inconvenient Time" - The Story of Ruth Ravina “Chicago 10“ by Brett Morgen DocuView Déjà Vu: Jason: “Ryan” a short by Chris Landreth (2004) IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0414469/?ref_=fn_al_tt_12 Christian: "MH370: The Plane that Disappeared", Series, 2023, IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26739535/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1 Timecodes: 02:20 - Jason Rugg’s Bio 04:19 - Motion Graphics vs Animation 06:00 - Motion Capture vs Live Animation 10:20 - Math & Animation 12:55 - The rebirth/resurgence of animation in documentary film making with examples 23:00 - The cost of animation, examples and styles such as “parallaxing” 30:57 - Striking the right balance between animation and story asking questions like do you have an art director or an illustrator? 40:06 - Advice from Jason about where to start with animation if you are interested in using this medium in your storytelling, including finding the right style of animation to compliment your story 45:43 - DocuView Déjà Vu 47:46 - Update & Wrap up

Get ready for an exciting new episode of Documentary First! In episode 192, we're diving deep into the impact of life on the process of filmmaking. With team members experiencing unexpected life events, we explore how creativity is affected when life gets in the way. You won't want to miss the insightful thoughts the team received from another filmmaker, Flo Plana, and Christian's thrilling experience winning not one, but TWO camera packages at a local fundraising film festival. Plus, with the 2023 Oscars fresh on our minds, we delve into the winners, losers and what we think this year's Oscars might mean for the future of filmmaking. Is the Academy still relevant? And how does a film get nominated? Join us for this fascinating conversation, and don't forget to check out our bonus segment on the future of the film industry, exclusively available to our Patreon supporters. DocuView Déjà Vu Segment Jason: "Glitch: The Rise & Fall of HQ Trivia", 2023, HBO Max https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26618018/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_5 Zach: "All The Beauty and The Bloodshed", 2022, 122 mins, Prime Video https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21374850/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2 Christian: "Chicken People", 2016, 83 mins https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4819510/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1 Conversation Time Codes: 00:30 - Zach Callaghan Bio 01:37 - Zach gives a writing update on the Taking Carentan Project 02:26 - Flo Plana came to town and gives some great suggestions to deepen the story lines of “Taking Carentan” 04:37 - Jason poses an idea for an episode - "What makes a good sizzle?" 05:58 - Topic adjustments including "Reflections on life and filming" - How life impacts or happens in the process of making a film. 10:47 - Creativity & Emotions - thoughts by Zach & Jason 13:47 - Where do creative story ideas come from? 15:48 - Christian shares about her experience a the "Patrick Live On Film Festival & Fundraiser" in the Chicago area. In particular, one short film "Fraser Syndrome and Me" had a profound impact and she was able to meet the film maker. Along with a new realization about the power of documentary films. 26:18 - Raffles, Raffles, Raffles - Christian wins 3 and 2 of those were film packages that will help with the May filming in Fort Campbell for "Taking Carentan" 27:07 - The morning after the Oscars show. The team recaps the Oscars and wonders whether this year is an indication of a changing industry 39:06 Jason Rugg was reminded of this video during the Oscars recap: Maggie Rogers - folk / Alaska (Pharrell's feedback) 41:30 - Does the Academy really matter? 48:20 - How film festivals tie into the Academy Awards and the money required to get a nomination to the Oscars. 55:02 - DocuView Déjà Vu Segment 59:45 - A quick Film update from Christian

Welcome to Episode 191. Chad Gilchrist, grip and lighting guru extraordinaire, and Director of Photography for “Taking Carentan”, joins the podcast today to talk about the Top 5 skills every cinematographer needs to develop in order to be successful. Before we get into the episode, I wanted to let you know we’re starting something really new. We have extra bonus content exclusively for our Patreon supporters. And this week, it’s going to be an extended interview with Chad talking about his work on Steven Spielberg’s favorite show of the year, “The Bear”. You don’t want to miss this! Chad comes to the team with an amazing wealth of knowledge and skills from a variety of projects with some pretty impressive films. This episode’s focus is on The Top 5 Skills every aspiring cinematographer needs to develop and why those skills are important. > Tip No.1: Develop a strong network. Build friendships and relationships. There is a ripple effect in networking. A key to networking is not seeing what one can get out of it for him or herself. The question rather is: Am I genuinely curious about other people? There really is a butterfly effect. You don’t know where and when the fruits will blossom from the seeds that you planted years ago, but it is always important to keep planting seeds. > Tip No.2: Learn the techniques, technical skills, and then remember that it’s about how you use them. “Creativity with what you have is filmmaking…Make it great with what you have” – Jason Rugg > Tip No.3: Go do the thing! > Tip No.4: Learn great communication. It matters how you manage people, it matters how you communicate, learning how to work with others is critical to success. > Tip No.5: Be flexible and adaptable. Filmmaking is never the thing that you pictured it being – ever. Chad and Jason expound on technology and resources useful to them from experience. They give a couple of situations when networking was a good thing for them to do. The team shares some resources available for listeners: Roger Deakin's Cinematography Books: https://www.rogerdeakins.com/ Dale Carnegie’s book, "How to Win Friends and Influence People": https://www.dalecarnegie.com/en/resources/how-to-win-friends-and-influence-people-chapter-1 ASC: https://theasc.com/ Brent Forrester's Online Classes: https://www.brentforrester.com/ DocuView Déjà Vu Chad: Navalny, 2022, 1hr 39mins, HBO Max IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt17041964/ Jason: YouTube videos – 2 parts called “Halo four is worse than you remember” Part 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjZMRcpbK2E Part 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2XcD7BV95E Christian: World War II in Color, 2009, Series, 13 Episodes (51 mins each): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2069688/ 05:37 – Tip 1 “Networking/ Connections/Community” 15:37 – Tip 2 “Technical Skills” 22:45 – Tip 3 ” Go do the thing – build your portfolio” 27:00 – Tip 4 “Communication – learning how to work with others” 29:09 – Tip 5 “Being flexible and adaptable” 34:19 – Resources for listeners 40:14 – DocuView Déjà Vu 45:23 – New DVD now available for purchase. Follow our Substack Blog: https://documentaryfirst.substack.com/ Join our newsletter (bottom of page): https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/ Donate to help us tell more stories: https://givebutter.com/LivingStoriesLtd Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DocumentaryFirst

Interested in improving your creative workflow? Jeff Kurtenacker is back to explain why it all starts with developing good taste. But it doesn’t end there, listen in to discover what it takes to improve your skills, whether it is composing music, directing films, etc. Breakdown: 00:00-06:05 What is Taste? 06:06-14:02 Pathway to Excellence 14:03-21:36 How to Receive Constructive Criticism 21:37-31:44 DocuView Déjà Vu DocuView Déjà Vu: Jason: HBO’s The Last of Us Podcast (2023) https://listen.hbo.com/the-last-of-us-podcast Jeff: Myth & Mogul: John DeLorean (2021) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14968268/ Christian: American Factory (2021) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9351980/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DocumentaryFirst Follow our Substack Blog: https://documentaryfirst.substack.com/ Join our newsletter (bottom of page): https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/ Watch our first feature film NOW on these platforms: https://geni.us/TheGirlWhoWoreFreedom Buy a DVD or stream in FRENCH from The Girl Who Wore Freedom Shop: https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/buynow/ Donate to help us tell more stories: https://givebutter.com/LivingStoriesLtd

Christian and Jason do a deep dive into "the dreaded cue sheet" with Jeff Kurtenacker. What is a music cue sheet and why is it important for your film? The benefits outweigh the costs. It is more than just a tracking document! It's a sheet that you submit, it requires assigning a name for every piece of music in a film and adding timecodes where each piece of music starts and ends. A composer is acknowledged, and many rights are associated with it, like for some, who's names are attached to a publisher, the profits go to the performing rights organization such as ASCAP, BMI, or CSAC, etc. will collect royalties of performances or showings of this film on your behalf. No matter if the score is only instrumental or has lyrics, musicians are supposed to be paid upfront in addition to royalties anytime anywhere it is used. Jeff & Christian share their experiences learning this element of the music business. If you are a producer or director, think twice about the music you're using in your film. Breakdown: 0:00 - Introductions and set up about the music cue sheet and its function 9:18 - Who does the tracking for royalties, the organizations. Who is ASCA & BMI and their functionality 12:03 - What does it look like for Jeff as the composer and publisher 13:19 - Christian share her perspective as the filmmaker and uses the example of TGWWF and how it works with "managed rights" 19:30 - Jeff & Christian unpack more about music rights and "public domain" 23:19 - Jeff re-iterates the need to protect the integrity of the work as it was intended to be used. 26:50 - Christian shares the story The Go-Go's and the reason they split up as it relates top royalties and music rights. 32:54 - Budgets for music rights in film, TV, and social media 36:47 - Is the music crucial to the story-telling? This impacts the decision to pay for the licensing & rights. 39:37 - Jeff gives a middle of the road option for music 41:05 - DocuView Déjà Vu Christian: Meltdown: Three Mile Island - NETFLIX, Docu-Series - 4 Episodes, 2hrs 52 mins total IMDB link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt19757508/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3 Jeff: Chernobyl, Minis Series, HBO Max, 5 Episodes, 5hrs 30 mins total IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7366338/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1 Jason: Podcast Episode recommendation - Show is 20000 Hertz - Episode on "The Price Is Right Theme song" Podcast link: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-price-is-right-yeah-yeah/id1171270672?i=1000453427580

This week on the podcast Christian talks with Ben Feithen, Documentary First's CEO, about plans for Documentary First in 2023. The DocFirst team is smaller now, and they ponder how to do more with less? When you hear the word "AI" - do you think about the Terminator series.....????? Well, don't be alarmed, in this podcast we unpack the pros and cons of a few new exciting automation and AI tools. 00:00 - 09:43 - A review on how Ben joined the team to help Christian with Documentary First through her son, Hunter Taylor 09:34 - 20:35 - Ben's thoughts on content ideas, 2023 strategy and an ensuing conversation with Christian about content creation with less resources. How does automation looks like as an answer to our problem and how can "AI" tools can help our social media engagement? 20:35 - 26:38 - Using AI to help create a new blog for Documentary First called "Stories of Service" and using AI tools to help with a backlog of content and stories not used yet. 26:39 - 34:59 - DocuView Déjà Vu: Ben: All Quiet on the Western Front (2022), imdb.com/title/tt1016150, a remake on Netflix, 148 mins (2hr 28 mins), Ben shares his thoughts from his military background and relevance to what is going on in the world today. Christian: D.B. Cooper: Where Are You?! (2022), imdb.com/title/tt21063148, Limited 4 Episode Documentary Series on Netflix 35:00 - Wrap up - We want to hear from documentary filmmakers about your experiences and any problems you have bumped into. We would love to work as a community to help solve some of those problems and hear how you may have solved them. Please chime in, whether it's writing an email to [email protected], tagging us on any one of the socials or joining us on Patreon and helping us you know, do something pretty great there. We really want to hear from what YOU want to hear. What do you want to know? What questions do you have? Let us know. And we'll keep producing great content for you. Subscribe to "Stories of Service " on Substack: https://documentaryfirst.substack.com/ Visit our new website: www.documentaryfirst.com Make a donation to help us share more stories! https://www.livingstoriesltd.org/ Links and resources mentioned: "Copy AI": https://www.copy.ai/ "ChatGPT": https://openai.com/ Thanks again for listening and we look forward to hearing from you.