
The No Film School Podcast
924 episodes — Page 11 of 19

Following a True Story Landed This Writer/Director His Feature Debut
Concrete Cowboy is a true story, a labor of love, and a star-studded debut. Writer/Director Ricky Staub cared about this story enough to invest a lot of time in bringing it to life. That care paid off when he got the chance to have his feature film debut with Concrete Cowboy for Netflix, starring Idris Elba and Caleb McLaughlin. I spoke to Ricky about the unique process of getting this story to the screen, and how he crafted the look with DP Minka Farthing-Kohl and veteran DI Mike Sowa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to Break In... As a PA
On this week's episode of the No Film School Podcast, we tackle the prickly subject of the upcoming Will Smith project 'Emancipation' choosing not to shoot in Georgia because of its recent election law. Also, Bong Joon-Ho offers some wisdom at a Chapman University Forum about how to deal with current events in movies. In Tech News: DJI drops a *ridiculous* new drone. And for Ask No Film School, we address the urgent question of how to break in at the entry level (which is harder than you might think) with some actionable advice. Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ridley Scott's Longtime DP Darius Wolski Has War Stories
Darius Wolski has a resume as eye-popping as many of the tentpole movies he's lensed. He's been a longtime collaborator of Ridley Scott's as well as Paul Greengrass, demonstrating that Wolski can get an amazing job done in a wide-ranging variety of styles. He breaks down shooting Hanks starrer News of the World, how he and Tim Burton survived experimental phases of shooting in 3D, how he works with one legendary director after another, and makes sure he helps them achieve their varied visions. Note: please excuse the audio on this episode - which had to be recorded entirely over Zoom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Rian Johnson Can't Stop Winning
Joined once again by Katherine Tolentino, this week on the No Film School Podcast: Ryan Coogler reveals an admirable distaste for the Oscars and Netflix gives an astonishingly phat new paycheck to Rian Johnson for two 'Knives Out' sequels. In Tech Talk, Charles explains exactly how autofocus works. For Ask No Film School, a question about the default shutter speed on your camera. Please email us any questions at [email protected]! *Note: this podcast was recorded remotely, please forgive the minor background noise in some of the audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success Happened Because There Was No Plan B
What does it mean to never have a plan B? For veteran award winning DP Nancy Schreiber it meant continuing the grind, but also adjusting to the opportunities and realities she was presented with. How can you do the same? When getting DP jobs was less likely because of her gender, she took more gaffing jobs. When she got the chance to shoot video (VHS or otherwise) she grabbed it, and she wrote her own playbook on how to make it look good. She expanded on that as the video medium expanded. Continuing to shoot on her beloved celluloid, but also winning AWARDS for shooting on... wait for it... MiniDV. Nancy is a true veteran of the industry, one of the first few female members of the ASC, and a trailblazer to this day. Best of all she's humble, positive, and excited about all the new projects on her slate of all variety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do Directors Need a Certain Personality Type To Suceed?
Justice League, Zack Snyder, and Joss Whedon continue to hit headlines as we ask if Ray Fisher’s recent demands for the Justice League investigations should be released. We also talk about personality types of directors; debunking the myth that all directors should be extroverts. But what even IS an extrovert? In Tech News, Charles marvels at the advancements of the Sigma fp L. We also talk about what to do when you don't have wifi on set! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Creating the Physical Look of David Fincher's 'Mank'
It's no surprise that David Fincher's Mank was nominated for the Best Production Design. Production designer Donald Graham Burt is a veteran Fincher collaborator and he has a perfectionist streak equal to the director. Along with set decorator Jan Pascale, Burt tells us how he helped craft a period-specific look for the celebrated film. From the daunting task of recreating Hearst Castle interiors to the iPhone filter they used to audition every possible prop; you'll get a sense of designing the look of a film on this scale, as well as applicable tips to any production at any size. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Zach Snyder's 'Justice League' a Good Movie?
This week on the No Film School Podcast, we are joined by Michelle DeLateur to pick apart Zack Snyder's new 'Justice League' cut on HBOMax and discuss the current culture of emerging voices directing franchise films. Also, we celebrate the diversity of the 2021 Oscar nominees! In Tech News, Charles plugs an amazing new audio plug-in by Accusonus. For Ask No Film School: the do's and don'ts of experimenting with your Steadicam. Enjoy! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Toia Self-Financed a VFX-Heavy Robot Action Movie for 1.6 Million
Mark Toia has been a commercial director based in Australia for decades and he's finally breaking out with his first feature. Wearing many hats as director-producer-cinematographer (and even the on-set VFX supervisor), he's able to bring his expertise to a passion project and make a film the way he wants to. Charles Haine sits down with Mark to speak about everything from competing for commercial gigs with Tarsem Singh to navigating the world of distribution. We hope you enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How WandaVision Achieved Its Kaleidoscope of Looks With One Camera
This week on the No Film School Podcast, we take a deep dive on deep fakes in light of some impressive Tom Cruise impersonations on TikTok. We also discuss how WandaVision's DP pulled off a crazy array of looks from different eras with a single sensor. Wow. In Tech News, Nikon releases its first full-frame mirrorless camera. For Ask No Film School, we give some essential advice on the pros and cons of self-funding your debut feature. Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Michael Stephenson Turned a Child Actor Nightmare Into a Fruitful Directing Career
It's rare to be cast as the lead of a feature film when you're eleven years old. What's even more rare is to be cast in one of the most notorious and celebrated bad movies ever made. Michael Stephenson's foray into the film industry was his starring role in Troll 2. This may have destroyed his career, or his life, but Michael's strange career path and his love for underdog filmmaking stories got him on a track of directing documentary and narrative films. His films include Best Worst Movie, Girlfriend's Day and his most recent project Attack of the Murder Hornets (now available on Discovery+). Listen for an inspiring and unique story about someone truly making the best out of the hand they were dealt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TCM Chooses to Discuss Rather Than 'Cancel' and Why It Matters
This week on the No Film School Podcast, TCM resists cancel culture and instead encourages discussion of problematic classic movies. As theaters begin to open up around the US, IMAX announces hopeful predictions for a blockbuster Summer 2021. Jean-Luc Godard, at age 90, announces retirement after two more films. Pretty ambitious, no? In Tech News, a remote workflow solution from Arriflex and what happens when the Mavo 8k stops supporting internal ProRes RAW? Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Ruffalo's Doc on The Rights of Nature Breaks Ground
Mark Ruffalo served as the Executive Producer on this film which charts the battle to defend nature's rights. It's a novel concept that has major legal implications, not to mention factors heavily into our own survival. What does it mean? How does it manifest? How did co-directors Josh Pribanic and Melissa Troutman film it? How the hell did they get Mark Ruffalo involved? All that and more in the interview. You can check out The Invisible Hand here, read about the film, the fight, and watch it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is George Lucas Returning to Star Wars? We Discuss the Filmmaking Maverick
This week we take a deep dive into the man, the myth, and the undeniable influence of George Lucas who may be returning to the Star Wars universe to draft a couple of episodes of Andor. In Tech News, DJI unveils an astonishing first-person drone. And for Ask No Film School, we tackle the issue of soundproofing your own house to be a better shooting location. Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What Do Producers Want? We Ask One
The many answers are the keys to the content kingdom. Producer Shivani Rawat has racked up some great credits in a very short period of time. She tells us how she did that, what she's looking for in scripts, and how she gets stuff made. Check out our interview with Writer/Director of Wander Darkly Tara Miele, which Shivani produced, and our talk with DP Phedon Papamichael who shot another film Shivani exec. produced, Trial of the Chicago 7. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sorry Dude, Amazon Prime Video Direct Does Not Want Your Documentary
This week on the No Film School Podcast: a recent report reveals that the HPFA has zero black members. Meanwhile, Amazon announces they are no longer accepting short films or documentaries for their Prime Video Direct service. We discuss! In Tech News, two new cinema cameras compete with each other: the Blackmagic Pocket 6k and the Sony FX3. And for Ask No Film School, we tackle the complexities of place a where it's very, very risky to voice your opinions: Hollywood. Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The United States vs. Billie Holiday DP Says Celluloid Was a 'No Brainer'
We don't get to see or talk about features shot on good old 35mm as much as we'd like to so this was a treat. Andrew Dunn expands on why film was the only medium choice for awards contender The United States vs. Billie Holiday, he reveals what he learned working with legend Robert Altman. He also divulges a lesser-known story about shooting the unforgettable Whitney Houston performance for The Bodyguard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Was Gina Carano's Firing Fair?
Joined this week on the No Film School Podcast by Katherine Tolentino and Michelle DeLateur: Gina Carano finds herself out of a very high-profile job after sharing some controversial views on social media. We take a look at the Oscar shortlists and attempt to answer the age-old question: does winning an Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film actually affect your career? In Tech News, we marvel at Frame.io's C2C, an upcoming feature for viewing dailies. And for Deep Cuts, our very favorite movies about falling in love. Oh, and here's the Match.com ad that Michelle is obsessed with. Enjoy! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' DP Tobias Schliessler is Always Learning
Schliessler has lensed many major blockbusters, collaborating with directors Peter Berg, Bill Condon, and Ava Duvernay on a variety of scales and genres. What's the throughline? An ability to take it slow, develop his abilities, and constantly learn from his collaborators. But for all the fun details you have to hear it from him. Want to watch the amazing scene Schliessler discussed shooting in detail? You can stream Ma Rainey's Black Bottom now on Netflix. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet Matt Ritter: The Man Who Almost Scored the Film Rights to the Gamestop Madness
This week on the No Film School Podcast with guest-co-host Katherine Tolentino, we discuss Sweden's Göteborg Film Festival which has some delightfully unconventional ways of doing a COVID-era festival. In Tech News: Nanlite takes its cues from internet complains and delivers with their new bi-color LED light, the Forza 300B. And last but not least, we chat with Matt Ritter, a Black List screenwriter who came very, very close to obtaining a life rights option with the founder of the now-infamous Wall Street Bets subreddit. Enjoy! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oscar-Winning Director of 'The Mauritanian' and 'The Last King of Scotland' Kevin Macdonald
Kevin Macdonald started out in the Documentary world and reached dizzying heights (quite literally) with his Oscar-winning film 'Touching the Void'. When the chance came to try narrative on 'The Last King of Scotland' he proved he had all kinds of chops. Now he's back with 'The Marautinian' based on a harrowing true story. He tells us how his love of studying film helped him build his voice and continues to inform his approach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Remote Sundance is Awesome For Filmmakers and Audiences
This week on The No Film School Podcast, we are joined by Oakley Anderson-Moore who gives us the lowdown on Sundance 2021 and its virtual experience, as well as her favorite films of the fest -- and of course the record-breaking sale of 'CODA'. We discuss how PA-level crew members are now COVID compliance officers, giving this important task to folks who are unfortunately at the bottom of the film set's food chain. In Tech News, Charles discovers a file copying app called Levee which at only $4.99 is a must-have. And for Ask No Film School, we tackle the issue of plagiarism in regards to a recent short film based on an online comic. Enjoy! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'Search Party' DP Jonathan Furmanski Discusses the Art Of Lensing Comedy
Nestled among Jonathan Furmanksi's advice is another particularly useful tidbit; be someone people want to work with again. Seems obvious, right? At the same time, it's often overlooked or sidestepped in the name of so many other priorities. But it's actually the reason you'll get hired and keep earning a living. Jonathan expands upon this and other ideas in our interview with him. Search Party season 4 is streaming on HBO MAX. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What You Need to Know About the Sony Alpha 1
This week on The No Film School Podcast, we are joined by Jo Light and Katherine Tolentino to discuss what the post-pandemic Sundance is looking like and why it may be an improvement on the old model. (By the way, Boots Riley has some great advice on how to get the most out of Sundance 2021.) Also, the CEO of AMC takes a major risk on the future of theatrical, which leads us to a vital question: why do theaters not show episodic content? In Tech News: the Sony Alpha 1 makes a big splash in the cinema camera market. For this week’s Ask No Film School... is it okay to embellish your resume to get a job? Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frank Oz, Voice of Yoda and Muppet Co-Founder, Breaks New Ground and New Formats
Directing Derek DelGaudio's In & Of Itself brought Oz back to his creative anarchist roots. It's hard to put Frank Oz and Derek Delgaudio's In & Of Itself into words. That's how they wanted it. It's something that must be seen to be... not believed? We keep the interview spoiler-free, diving into what inspired this anarchy, what moved Oz and DelGaudio to build something new, and break things in the process. After I switched off my recorder and took in all Oz and DelGaudio shared, I walked into the other room to find my children watching... "The Muppets" (which Oz helped create and found). It served as a reminder that Frank Oz's drive to create things with a purpose and risk failure by being different, results in a legacy and an impact that echoes for generations. We are motivated to create things for a variety of reasons. Frank Oz and Derek DelGaudio were motivated by some of the best reasons. Oz said working with DelGaudio reminded him of the early early days with Jim Henson when they were just trying things. Breaking things. Discovering things. More than success, the highlight is always concocting something new. There is no guarantee that you can find the type of success Oz and DelGaudio have. But there is a guarantee that you can find the same joy if you pursue things the way they did. Let their anarchy guide us all to taking chances, evading definitions, and breaking molds. In & Of Itself is NOW streaming on HULU. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is There Anything Left in the Superhero Genre to Explore?
This week on The No Film School Podcast: Twitter gets testy about Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World... but Russell Crowe fights back. The Amazon series The Boys takes on the superhero genre (successfully) and we discuss how trying your hand at the genre is may not be the worst idea. Also: did Chinese producers rip off IP with the recent The Fault In Our Stars knockoff that conquered the 2020 box office. In Tech News: can you make an artificial sun for a thousand bucks? And does it look any good? YouTuber DIY Perks has an answer. Additionally in Tech News: the new, upgraded WiFi 6. *Note: Please excuse any minor issues in our audio.* Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to Work Your Way Up at a Production Company Until You Direct Your Debut Feature
Howard Barish formed the production company Kandoo Films in 1992 and he gave Ava DuVernay her start, executive producing her first narrative features. He then went on to produce the acclaimed documentary 13th with her as well. This process inspired Barish's right hand man, Michael Nell to write a feature called Blindfire. Nell's script tackles the murky intersection of race and police with the story of a hostage situation gone wrong. Barish liked the script so much, he couldn't say no. Nell and Barish join us to talk about their controversial new film and how they both navigated Hollywood to get to where they are. Blindfire is out now on VOD. *Note: we apologize for any imperfections in our audio. This podcast was recorded remotely.* Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Quentin Tarantino Giving Us Bad Career Advice?
This week on the No Film School Podcast: HBO Max's strange new way of handling residuals, Tarantino's rallying cry to screenwriters to stop worrying about getting staffed on TV shows and write more specs, and the NFL's new adoption of "indie" camera setups. In Tech News, we discuss Sony's innovative entrée into the drone market. For Ask No Film School, what advice do we have on crowdfunding? (Plenty.) Enjoy! *Note: Please excuse the issues in our audio, it sounds bad at the very beginning but goes away shortly thereafter.* Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can Cinema Make You Immortal? A Deep Chat With 'Dick Johnson Is Dead' Creator Kirsten Johnson
Kirsten Johnson is a filmmaker who is pushing the limits of the form. Her latest feature, Dick Johnson Is Dead, is a documentary/experimental film about her father's struggle with dementia and his imminent demise. Our talk with Kirsten is wide-ranging and she is quick to turn the tables on the interview and talk about George. But we promise you this is no self-indulgent therapy session, it's a thorough examination of why we tell stories and how we grieve those closest to us. We also discuss the necessity of "humanizing" the crew members on a set and how whatever camera you shoot on is a beautiful and historic artifact. Make sure you're sitting down for this one -- it gets real. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did Patty Jenkins Try to Save 'Wonder Woman'?
This week on the No Film School Podcast, we talk about Patty Jenkin's comments on the first Wonder Woman film, and we have thoughts about it. Joined this week by Katherine Tolentino, we also discuss the Golden Globes' regulations that are preventing Minari from getting the recognition and press it deserves. Plus, a few Tech News bits and we talk about a new film showcase of Bay Area filmmakers co-founded by Katherine! Hope you enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Producers of 'Black Bear' Tell You What It Really Takes To Make a Legit Indie Film
Meet Julie Christeas and Jonny Blitstein, leaders of the independent film studio Tandem Pictures whose most recent success story is the genre-bending Black Bear, starring Aubrey Plaza and Christopher Abbot. The film premiered at Sundance Film Festival 2020 and it is out now on streaming platforms everywhere. We talk about their "Sundance or bust" strategy and why it's important to not only have a plan B, but plans "A through J." Also, how to brave the mind-boggling puzzles of day-to-day line producing, and how it feels to have CAA embrace your film in its finished form. Enjoy this deep dive into the process of producing unique and impactful movies! *Note: we apologize for the issues in some of the audio of the episode; it was recorded remotely.* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Writer-Director Tara Miele Brought Her Passion Project 'Wander Darkly' to Life
Tara Miele had a student film project premiere at Slamdance twenty years ago... and she's had a long and fascinating road to get to Sundance in 2020 with her feature Wander Darkly, starring Sienna Miller and Diego Luna. We talk about how Time's Up and Me Too saved her life, allowing her to be accepted in the industry as a professional filmmaker. She's juggled her family life with her career and made great sacrifices in order to carve out time to write her films. After doing micro-budget films and directing for television, she managed to bring this very personal and inspiring story to life. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why ScriptHop Will Help Get Your Screenplay Read By the Right People
Have you ever thought 'Gee, I have this great script but it's impossible to get agents, managers and producers to read the damn thing'? Well, so have the brains behind the new online service ScriptHop. On this podcast episode, we welcome Script Hop co-founders Brian Austin and Scott Foster as well as casting director Jory Weitz who serves as Director of Industry Relations. The team details their innovative 'packet' which presents your story and script to the reader in an engaging, interactive way. It allows your work to stand out; tailored to people like agents and assistants who simply don't have time to read your script front to back. Don't dismiss this valuable tool that could get your screenplay actually read by someone that could get the movie made -- and believe us, that is one of the hardest things to accomplish in this industry. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What Is Up with Tom Cruise and Why Did His COVID Regulation Tirade Seem Fake?
For this week on the No Film School Podcast: the uncanny, performative nature of Tom Cruise as evidenced by his controversial on-set rant about breaking COVID regulations. Also, how the acclaimed second season finale of 'The Mandalorian' circumvented the perils of fan service. In Tech News, RED offers new firmware that enables autofocus for the Komodo. And for Ask No Film School, how to light dark spaces well and understand the concept of “contrast” writ large. Enjoy and happy holidays! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Disney's New Wave of Content Matters (For Better or Worse)
This week on the No Film School Podcast: Disney unveils its new slate of upcoming shows and we discuss the importance of sound in honor of Sound Week here at NoFilmSchool.com. In Tech News, Xelmus announces new, notably eye-catching anamorphic primes. And for Ask No Film School, we answer a question about when and when not to curb your ambitious screenplay idea for consideration of production. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oscar-Winning Sound Supervisor Mark Mangini Gives You The Keys to the Kingdom
Have you ever wondered what a supervising sound editor is? What their job is and how they pull it off? Let one of the masters of the profession explain. Mark Mangini is the maestro behind films like Mad Max: Fury Road, Blade Runner 2049, Aladdin, Gremlins, several Star Trek films and many, many others. He's a veteran in the field, starting with cartoons and working his way to winning an Oscar, and beyond. Mangini goes in depth on his craft and his experience, with great insights to share, such George Miller’s pyramid of importance for each given shot and moment. When discussing Blade Runner 2049, Mangini describes his and Denis Villeneuve’s strategy of melding the sound design and the music until they are indistinguishable from one another. If you want to take your knowledge of filmmaking to the next level, you will want to be familiar with the concepts discussed here. Don't miss out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Watson Wu Captures Your Favorite Sounds
Have you ever played a video game or watched a movie and wondered where did all these sounds come from? Well, it's not all sound libraries and foley stages. Sometimes, projects will hire a person whose sole responsibility is to go out into the world and get fresh sounds. Gunshots, cannons, engines, you name it, their job is to go out and find it and bring it back to be mixed in. Watson Wu is one of those guys, and he has hunted down sounds for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, Assassin's Creed and films like Baby Driver. He tells us stories from the front lines, like gathering firearm effects from antique weapon collectors in Florida. We also discuss Watson's role in creating Rode’s new ambisonic sound library. We talk about the insane challenges of obtaining roller coaster sounds and how the job of being a sound recordist, oddly enough, comes down to networking. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heavyweight Directors Vs. Warner Bros: Who Will Have the Last Word?
This week: Christopher Nolan and Steven Soderbergh both weigh in on Warner Bros’ decision to send their entire slate to HBO Max, while Mank harkens back to the yesteryear of studio filmmaking. In Tech News, Apple offers expensive monitors and stands; Charles offers his opinions. And for Ask No Film School we tackle a simple question that is never easy to answer: how does a screenwriter get an agent? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why 'The Crown' Takes Liberties with Historical Facts and You Should Too (Because It’s All Fiction)
This week on the No Film School Podcast: a COVID testing site gets shut down to make way for a Hollywood film shoot, while The Crown takes liberties fictionalizing historical events and the public must be warned accordingly. We also discuss why the New York Times’ “Greatest Actors of the 21st Century" list is somewhat problematic by nature... and let’s be honest, a bit too early to call? In Tech News: the awesome benefits of the iPhone software Filmic Pro and its new updates. For Ask No Film School: how do you convert the frame rate of your footage? Enjoy--and as always, thank you for listening! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Oscar Winning DP Chris Menges Mastered Naturalistic Cinematography
If anyone on this planet is a natural born cinematographer, it might just be Chris Menges. His earthiness and pragmatism combined with his uncanny, innate sensibility for the moving image are what makes his films special: Kes, The Killing Fields and The Mission, to name just a few. If you haven’t seen them, then trust us that they are among the most beautiful movies ever made. Chris Menges has seen a lot of adventure; he's been all over the world, and he has stories. In this wide-ranging discussion we talk about the photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson's influence on Menges' work and the importance of "walking the streets." From his early days in documentary to his later work with directors like Neil Jordan, Stephen Frears, Stephen Daldry and Sean Penn, Menges is a true master of observation... and he's picked up a couple Oscars along the way. Pay your respects and listen to the man speak! For another conversation with a great DP, check out our recent chat with Phedon Papamichael. Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One Director's Honest, Harsh, and Heartwarming Story of Making it in Hollywood
Luke Greenfield was a young boy with big dreams who wanted to make movies just like his hero Steven Spielberg. His concerned mother writes an impassioned letter to the big man himself, and Mr. Spielberg responded with an encouraging letter. Two decades later, Greenfield grows up to direct The Girl Next Door and guess who's a major fan? Greenfield's story is a heartwarming one, but it's not without its tragedy and realism. He goes in depth on his grueling experience (sort of) directing The Animal with Rob Schneider and his struggles to be taken seriously in the industry as a young voice. Greenfield's goal as a filmmaker is to make you not only laugh hysterically, but to feel. His latest achievement, Half Brothers, hits theaters this Friday, December 4th. Don't miss this lively and honest conversation! If you want to hear more success stories about makers of unconventional comedy movies, check out our interview with the creators of Palm Springs. Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin Ascended to the Top of the Film World with 'The Climb'
The Climb is one of the biggest indie breakouts of 2020. The debut feature from filmmaking-and-acting duo Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin played every major film festival you can think of before finally hitting theaters this holiday season. Michael and Kyle sit down with NFS founder Ryan Koo to talk about how they pulled off a buddy comedy made up entirely of long oners; the underutilized power of sound editing; and of course, the benefits of having a death metal ballerino as your dolly grip. They also go in depth on a very, very ballsy stunt done by Kyle, and the thrill of not only taking the film to Cannes, but winning a Jury Prize. The Climb is out now in theaters. Enjoy! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's the Best Cinema Camera for Under 10K?
What does the new deal struck between Cinemark and Universal mean for the industry? How can movie-goers support theaters while they are closed?Also, this just in: Quentin Tarantino writes books (including a novelization of Once Upon A Time in Hollywood)?? In Tech News, we share our hands-on experience with the new Apple Silicon. For Ask No Film School: what is the best entry-level cinema camera to invest in for music videos and corporate work? And lastly, our theme for Deep Cuts is thanksgiving and gratitude. We hope you enjoy... and Happy Thanksgiving! Please email us any questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Phedon Papamichael is an Actor's Cinematographer. What Does That Mean?
Phedon Papamichael's career as a cinematographer goes back to the 80's, but he's still a go-to DP for the best filmmakers in the business. You might call him an “actor’s cinematographer” or a stylistic chameleon. Phedon talks about his approach to the craft: rather than trying to put his visual stamp on a movie, his goal is to serve the story and overall vision. He compares his experiences working with Alexander Payne, George Clooney, Aaron Sorkin and James Mangold -- and what it was like juggling the massive personalities on the set of Sorkin's The Trial of the Chicago 7. Phedon and recalls his early days shooting stripper-centered B-movies under Roger Corman’s tutelage — with Wally Pfister and Janusz Kaminski as his camera crew. This is a masterclass in what it means to be an A-list cinematographer. Don't miss this one: Phedon is the man. Please email us any questions or comments at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How 'The Queen's Gambit' Editor Michelle Tesoro Became So Versatile In Cutting Prestige TV
Though her most recent triumph is the highly-praised Netflix miniseries The Queen's Gambit, Michelle Tesoro has built a career working with A-list showrunners and directors, within both film and television. From mastering the art of the dialog scene with the HBO series In Treatment, to her collaborations with luminaries like Michael Mann, David Fincher, Ava DuVernay, Mimi Leder and David Milch, she has plenty of stories to tell. Tesero managed to navigate the exact career she wanted and has plenty of wisdom to impart, like why sometimes saying no to projects is even more important than saying yes. We hope you enjoy! More post-production and Queen’s Gambit related goodies here: Cinematic Legend Walter Murch on Editing and Sound Design Here’s What’s New in DaVinci Resolve 17 How Does ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ Create Conflict Without Words? Please email us any questions or comments at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Did Leonardo DiCaprio Want 'Killers of the Flower Moon' Rewritten?
Eric Roth spent much of this year doing significant rewrites to the script of the upcoming Martin Scorsese film, Killers of the Flower Moon. The biggest notes came from co-star Leonardo DiCaprio. On this week's NoFilmSchool, we talk about why the actor chose to play a different role in the movie and is taking the story in a slightly different direction. For Tech News, we give you the lowdown on a new, exciting 4k camera: the Sony FX6. For Ask No Film School, we talk about the do's and don'ts of "greeking." And in honor's of Scorsese's recent birthday: our favorite of the director's movies for this week's Deep Cuts! More about the Sony FX6 here: Sony's FX6 is a 4K Shooter's Wet Dream Early Sony FX6 Reviews Are In--Watch 'Em Now How Does the New Sony FX6 Stack Up Against the Popular FX9? Please email us any questions or comments at [email protected]! *Editorial note: 'Up in the Air' does not star Denzel Washington. Charles meant 'Flight'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How Ross Emery Became a Go-To Cameraman for Modern Sci-Fi Classics
After serving as a second unit director of photography on movies like The Matrix Trilogy and Dark City, Ross Emery was tapped to be one of the key cinematographers on the new series Raised By Wolves, where he got to work with one of his all-time film heroes: Ridley Scott. In fact, it was Scott's 1982 classic Blade Runner that made Emery fall in love with movies as visual art. Emery regales us with stories that you don't want to miss, everything from working with the Wachowskis and the incredible team they assembled, to the madness of The Island of Dr. Moreau. (Yes, he was on that set, too.) Emery's style and approach are distinct and he's been around the block, so pull up a chair and listen. Check out more interviews with great DP's: David Fincher's Longtime DP Jeff Cronenweth Has Advice, Insight, and Stories 'Lovecraft Country' DP Michael Watson On Shooting During COVID-19 Darren Aronofsky's Rockstar DP Matthew Libatique Talks Career and 'Requiem For a Dream' Anniversary Please email us any questions or comments at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Malin Akerman Explains How to Attach Talent to a Project
Producer/star Malin Akerman has had a wide-ranging career, having worked with everyone from the Farrelly Brothers to Zack Snyder on the largest scale projects as well as smaller indies. Recently she made the leap into producing her own films. Malin talks about what she looks for in a screenplay, and how finding that “third door” helps you break into the industry. She also explains the trials, challenges, and survival mode of making in Hollywood. Her new Chick Fight is out now. Check out more podcast interviews with filmmakers here: You Need to Know the Miracle of 'The Peanut Butter Falcon' No One Gives a Sh*t About Max Barbakow and Andy Siara, Creators of 'Palm Springs' 'Over The Moon' Director Glen Keane Uncovers The Secret Sauce of Story Please email us any questions or comments at [email protected]! *Editorial note: we apologize for occasional background noise in Malin's audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
DaVinci Resolve 17 Has Tons of New Features You'll Like
On this week's No Film School Podcast, Charles Haine and George Edelman gaze into their crystal ball once again and speculate how the new wave of coronavirus might affect set life. We also offer a trifecta of Tech News updates: a Sony drone, Teradek's autofocus system for cinema lenses and DaVinci Resolve 17's many perks and innovations. In honor of Veteran’s Day, we give you our favorite Deep Cuts about war veterans. Read more here: Jason Blum Says COVID-19 Has Changed Making Movies Forever Speed Up Your Edit with the New DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor Blackmagic's New Fairlight Desktop Console Makes Mixing Sound Easier *Editorial note: The Best Years of Our Lives is not 3.5 hours, it is under three hours! Let nothing stop you from watching this masterpiece. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sony's New Virtual Sound Tech Was So Good These Veteran Mixers Couldn't Believe Their Ears
Kami Asgar and Jessica Parks are post-production heavyweights who work with major studios, namely Sony. As a sound designer (Asgar) and as a post executive (Parks), their collective resume touches on everything from Apocalypto to Grandma's Boy to Venom. Parks has recently shifted her focus from supervisor to hands-on sound design, and we talk about how it’s never too late to pivot on your career path and find thing you love doing wherever you are in life. We also talk about the new revolutionary technology that will democratize the ability to mix sound on a professional level... and why the literal size of your ear matters. If you're in the mood for more sound talk, learn from the master: our exclusive interview with Walter Murch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices