The No Film School Podcast

Kabir Akhtar is an Emmy award winner who has worked on a long list of TV shows, such as Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Never Have I Ever, and The Sex Lives of College Girls. This accomplished director-editor-producer has directed 45 episodes of TV as of today. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Director-Editor, Kabir Akhtar, discuss: Why Kabir still uses a printed script Moving to Los Angeles and hearing “no” after “no” Why post is the most important part of the process Understanding editing before you start directing Directing episodes in an existing show versus directing a pilot The different “languages” you have be able to speak as a director Editing scenes you directed yourself Embracing the creative instincts from others on set The right way to step into your leadership role as a director Believing in yourself despite the opinions of others Memorable Quotes “It’s not really who you know, it’s ultimately who knows you.” [8:29] “No one is going to the movies to read a script. No one is going to the movies to watch raw footage.” [14:08] “Fundamentally editing is dark arts. It’s just doing a magic trick all day long.” [20:43] “It’s better to swing and miss than not swing at all.” [33:06] “I was completely convinced that it would happen and that it would absolutely never happen.” [56:20] Mentioned Resources: Connect with Kabir on Instagram More about Kabir Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you tell others how much money you make? Should you pay for your own productions? How should you be properly allocating your money? In today’s episode, No Film School’s Charles Haine, Jason Hellerman, GG Hawkins, and Yaro Altunin discuss: The weird social taboo of not talking about money Publishing everyone’s day rates out in the open Advocating for yourself and valuing your work How having a mentor can change the trajectory of your career Why profit sharing is tricky Different ways to invest your money for the future How working in this industry is a long game marathon When you should pay for your own passion projects How community building is so important for your career and finances Memorable Quotes “It should be illegal for people to ask you what you’re currently making, because it is irrelevant to what they are currently offering.” [4:35] “The side hustles are what bridged the gap and paid the rent for me.” [32:45] “You never know what curveball Hollywood is going to throw at you.” [36:13] “Spend longer casting than you think you need to.” [43:10] “Coffee is fancy and delicious.” [49:48] Mentioned Resources: How Much Money Do You Need to Survive in Los Angeles Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever thought about drawing inspiration for your characters, from your own family? How do you accomplish that in a way that protects them while also being true to the story? In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and director of Wildflower, Matt Smukler, discuss: Taking a documentary piece and turning it into a narrative feature Being as authentic as possible while not losing his family in the process Knowing immediately who would be casted as the main character Leaning on the screenwriter and main actress to help him tell a young girl’s story Not wanting the audience to recognize his director’s hand Using a feature editor versus a commercial editor The things he wish he knew before making a feature film How a game of tennis helped him find a producer Having his teenage daughter write songs for the film Memorable Quotes “I got really really lucky. I had all my first choices in this movie.” [15:05] “I do feel like, as a family unit, they are all individually these wildflowers who can exist with very little in terms of human intervention in some ways.” [16:13] “I did want this to feel like it was just happening in sort of real time, in front of us.” [20:02] “I’d rather be in business with someone who's got the hustle than a bunch of credits.” [33:33] “Figure out a story that’s got a beginning, middle, and end that you love and just go do it.” [44:20] Mentioned Resources: Wildflower is Now Available for Streaming Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does “work-life balance” mean to you? How do you come up with new ideas for projects? Can you believe Tarantino is working on his final film of all time? In today’s episode, No Film School’s Charles Haine, Jason Hellerman, GG Hawkins, and Yaro Altunin discuss: Freelance Brain - what it is and how to deal with it How the fear of missing out on opportunities leads us to never taking breaks The unique yet effective things we do in order to generate new ideas Having discipline when it comes to setting boundaries with yourself What we know about Quentin Tarantino’s final film, The Movie Critic Why it’s hard for us to believe Tarantino will only make 10 movies in his career DJI’s exciting new camera system, the Ronin 4D Flex Why the next frontier for technology needs to be affordability Memorable Quotes “I’m trying to survive and thrive in a culture that I didn’t dictate or build.” [8:39] “You can do better work when you’re present and healthy and not anxious and stressed.” [15:53] “Creativity really thrives within boundaries.” [36:07] “Why get a stabilizer when you can get a chicken?” [47:09] Mentioned Resources: Dolly Parton’s “5 to 9” video FREE Screenplay Beat Sheet Tarantino’s Final Film, The Movie Critic Stabilization Power of Chicken Heads DJI Ronin 4D Flex “Green Theme” by Baroness Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with director C.J. Obasi and Cinematographer Lílis Soares about the film, Mami Wata. They explain their shared vision in creating a film about people of color. They also share how they dealt with challenges like filming the ocean at night and losing almost three weeks of shooting time. Mami Wata premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival where it won the World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award for Cinematography. In this episode we talk about: Their intention to shoot a black and white film from day one Wanting to show the value and beauty of people of color in this film Being ghosted by the equipment provider on the first day of shooting Filming for 24 days instead of 6 weeks Not wanting too many shades of gray Treating the ocean as another character How Africans see themselves and portray themselves in film Leveraging an empathetic gaze versus a sympathetic gaze Why being patient is key to being in this industry Memorable Quotes “It’s a story of sisterhood. It’s a story of mortality versus spirituality. It’s also a story about what it means to be African.” [3:43] “The eyes of the ocean are everywhere.” [26:41] “I wanted to do something deeper…something that had more meaning.” [34:34] “It’s like trying to figure out a jigsaw. When you find that one jigsaw, all the pieces make sense.” [35:38] Resources: Find CJ on Instagram Find Lílis on Instagram Mami Wata Movie Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, No Film School’s Charles Haine, Jason Hellerman, GG Hawkins, and Yaro Altunin discuss the diversity of films at the 2023 Academy Awards. They also chat about the return of comedy, and the difficulties in receiving criticism. In this episode we talk about: The winner of Best Picture - Everything Everywhere All at Once Movies we loved that were not nominated How we are hoping for the return of theatrical comedy The hilarious and viral trailer for upcoming film, No Hard Feelings A recent interview of Seth Rogen talking about getting negative feedback What you need to consider when brainstorming and writing Sharing critical reviews we have received and our reactions Holding ourselves back due to criticisms Giving notes that align with the writer’s intention Memorable Quotes “It felt like a year where truly anything could be made and that’s the kind of Hollywood I want to live in.” [5:17] “Google search results started to suck this year.” [6:34] “I think there should be more weird ass rules.” [14:17] “It’s a bummer when somebody’s light can be snuffed out so early.” [37:28] “I also think you just accept that it hurts.” [42:24] Mentioned Resources: Check out the 2023 Academy Award winners Everything Everywhere All at Once No Hard Feelings Seth Rogen’s thoughts on negative reviews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In wake of the 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' Oscar sweep last night, we're republishing No Film School's 2+ hours of geeking out on the film. (Re-Run) Everyone once in a while a movie comes out that blows our collective hearts and minds. "Everything Everywhere All at Once" is that movie, and these are the people who made it. We're blessed to have an extra-special episode this week featuring Daniels (Writer/Director team behind the film) as well as their frequent collaborators Larkin Seiple (DoP) and Paul Rogers (Editor) to talk about EVERYTHING that went into crafting this modern classic. See the movie, then listen to this as a companion piece! Everyone once in a while a movie comes out that blows our collective hearts and minds. "Everything Everywhere All at Once" is that movie, and these are the people who made it. We're blessed to have an extra-special episode this week featuring The Daniels (Writer/Director team behind the film) as well as their frequent collaborators Larkin Seiple (DoP) and Paul Rogers (Editor) to talk about EVERYTHING that went into crafting this modern classic. See the movie, then listen to this as a companion piece! link to the film: https://a24films.com/films/everything-everywhere-all-at-once Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with director Erica Tremblay and Co-Writer Miciana Alise about the film, Fancy Dance. They discuss what their writing collaboration looked like, as well as challenges they faced during filming. The film premiered at Sundance 2023 and will premiere at SXSW on March 10. Topics discussed: Tackling prevalent problems in indigenous communities How Erica and Miciana met and what it was like writing the script together Applying storytelling into different genres, platforms, and formats Sharing breakthrough moments in complicated scenes Realizing that one still does directing in post production Successfully pulling off a big set piece using ingenuity and networking Having the right people behind the scenes, who really wanted to support the project Learning how to be a more considerate writer Memorable Quotes “We hope it can shine a little light on some of the struggles that Indian country has, with outside forces coming in and trying to tell us how we should be living on our sovereign land.” [5:12] “It makes it a little less painful that you’re not just alone in these deep, dark, scary pages.” [12:29] “There’s this symbiotic relationship of ideas and talent and knowledge that’s passing through two people, ending up on the page.” [12:43] “The biggest thing was learning what the characters didn’t need to say….Just letting them breathe in that uncomfortable moment.” [14:56] “Just be ferocious. You cannot hang your ego on any one scene. You can’t be precious about it.” [22:12] Resources: Fancy Dance Find Miciana on Instagram Find Erica on Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, No Film School’s Charles Haine, Jason Hellerman, and GG Hawkins discuss their concerns over the insidious ways big data is affecting hollywood. They also unpack the benefits and disadvantages to entering screenwriting contests. We discuss: The scary way big data is now being used in the industry How commerce is pushing back on creativity The best way to approach screenwriting contests Our worries about screenwriting contests and who actually benefits from them Feeding into the “hope machine” in order to get into the industry An anecdote about Triangle of Sadness Why there are no rules to convey your message when it comes to screenwriting Memorable Quotes “It is interesting to think about the data that’s being tracked on what you watch and where it can go…Is this something they are selling to people?” [6:40] “In an industry that’s already shrinking…putting A.I. behind it is a little worrisome.” [8:15] “The safest bet is not the best story.” [9:25] “There are things other than the checkboxes that make a movie what it is.” [12:52] “As a writer, as a director, you can use whatever you want to get your point across.” [42:20] Resources: I am Worried About Big Data and Hollywood Triangle of Sadness Denver the Guilty Dog Free Screenwriting E-book Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you bring your full self to a festival, to a film, to any project, whilst helping others shine in the process, you will find your place in this industry. In this episode, GG Hawkins speaks with director, Ella Glendining about her feature film, Is There Anybody Out There? She also speaks with cinematographers Lauretta Prevost and Laura Valladao on recent Sundance films they worked on. We discuss: Being a vehicle for communicating your passion Feeling self conscious about filming oneself everyday for a documentary film The surreal experience of having a film premiere at Sundance Accessibility, open captioning and inclusive viewing experiences at the festival Prioritizing everyone’s comfort in the making of a film Figuring out how to shoot and edit a purely black and white film Limiting air flow on set during Covid Experiences working with nonactors How emerging filmmakers should approach attending film festivals Memorable Quotes “I think anybody who’s ever felt other or left out or discriminated against, hopefully will be able to take something very powerful from the film.” [11:23] “I didn’t really notice I was making a feature until I was in the editing suite.” [19:10] “You must, must, must stick to your gut. Like if you absolutely know something is right, then it is.” [22:46] “Texture is so important in black in white because you don’t have color information to help you understand the space and the depth.” [33:14] “It’s the first time I’ve really felt like an adult here…I feel like a grown up.” [38:56] Resources: Find Ella on Instagram Find Laura on Instagram Laura’s website Find Lauretta on Instagram Lauretta’s website Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we discuss storytelling in both the show and video game adaptation of The Last of Us. Also, we talk about Warner Bros suing South Park and how it speaks to the frustrations creatives are experiencing in the industry. In today’s episode, No Film School’s Charles Haine, Jason Hellerman and GG Hawkins discuss: The things we wanted to see in a flashback episode of The Last of Us Expecting to see more sophisticated and interesting video game adaptations in the future Good actors versus bad actors in regards to legal contracts The after effects of a change in studio ownership How frustrating Hollywood is for a lot of creatives Why development is still so important Memorable Quotes “The more you do this filmmaking thing, the more empathy you have with people struggling with these challenges.” [11:50] “The problem with all flashbacks is we know what happens after.” [16:33] “Create a writing profession where breaking in doesn’t cost you ten years of your life and you get paid no money.” [37:10] Resources: The Last of Us Show The Last of Us Game South Park lawsuit Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is award winning editor, Mikkel E.G. Nielsen. Mikkel is an editor and director known for films such as Sound of Metal, Beasts of No Nation, and most recently, The Banshees of Inisherin. Mikkel shares what he appreciates most about being a film editor. In this episode, we discuss… What Mikkel appreciates the most from his time in film school in Denmark Realizing you can treat material in many different ways Remaining as objective and open as possible, especially in the initial stages of the process Loving and honoring the collaborative process of editing a film Why “less is more” sometimes How finding balance and simplicity lends to a more powerful film Helping the director make the best possible version of their intention Memorable Quotes “Editing has always been about experimenting and trying to see if there’s new ways to do certain things and to treat material in different ways.” [5:12] “On a first pass you never ever touch anything from the script.” [15:15] “There are so many things that are possible with so little material.” [18:14] “We have a tendency in editing especially, to make things complicated.” [35:17] “The film is not my baby. I’m helping someone and I always see it like that.” [41:43] Resources: Aqua Music Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQPS5J9_GNw Walter Murch https://nofilmschool.com/podcast-legendary-walter-murch-editing Alison O’Daniel and the Tuba Thieves https://nofilmschool.com/the-tuba-thieves 2023 Sundance Post Round Table https://nofilmschool.com/editors-and-post-sound-have-crush-each-others-work Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we discuss whether or not editors should be allowed to digitally manipulate performances. Also, we talk about the changes RED is making and what cameras they will no longer offer. In this episode, we talk about… Milkshake ducking and why we are afraid of it Protecting the performance element of an actor’s work What editors need to consider before making artificial changes to an actor’s performance A recent announcement from RED that has left many camera owners disappointed Our experiences shooting on RED cameras How to approach working with non-actors Memorable Quotes “The thing that AI is very good at doing is changing a facial expression.” [7:04] “We’re living in this world of contrived filters and I don’t want us to move too much further into that….we need to protect the humanity.” [9:15] “We’re watching civilizational standards shift.” [10:35] Mentioned RED Camera Announcement Keanu Reeves Warns Us About the Dangers of AI Editing Actors ET Audition Tape Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hours before their Sundance premieres, we spoke with the writing fellows of Women Write Now, Hartbeat’s annual comedic screenwriting fellowship for Black women in partnership with the Sundance Institute. In addition to having the three writing fellows on, we were also joined by Hartbeat’s Head of Film, Candice Wilson-Cherry, who takes us through how the program is designed to directly address the lack of BIPOC women in leadership positions like showrunners and in writers' rooms. We also were joined by Hey Boo director Logan Browning who you might know from The Perfection and Dear White People. And in addition to diving into the art of comedy, we also dig into the art of directing for comedy. All of these shorts are directed by actors — the other two being Tika Sumpter and Nicole Byer. In this episode, we discuss… How the Women Write Now program is filling a void in the writing space Their process for finding writiers and directors for the program The development process of each of the shorts Fitting the script into only 10 pages Having to adjust things for the budgets Finding mentors who would guide fellows in nurturing yet realistic ways Doing table reads versus chemistry reads Letting go of control by trusting actors Hitting deadlines so you don’t hold up production Memorable Quotes “It’s really important that all of our films, tv shows, and formats are all reflective of the world.” [3:28] “That was really nice, sort of discovering a different layer and different element to the story.” [9:56] “They have helped me walk into a door that was closed.” [14:03] “Make sure your actors get to be free and play.” [22:28] “Write, write, write. You only become good, by just doing it.” [34:32] “If you feel like you are a writer to your core, don’t be afraid to say it and don’t be afraid to tell people.” [41:03] Mentioned: https://womenwritenow.com/ The Real Hartbeat on Instagram Candice Wilson Cherry (Producer of the films) Logan Browning (Hey Boo director) Danielle Solomon (Hey Boo writer) Mayanna Berrin (Power Dynamics writer) Kiana Butler (Night Off writer) Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Continuing our Sundance coverage in episode 608 of the No Film School podcast, we sat down with editors and sound teams from films premiering at the festival. In addition to unpacking post production — the final and critical phase of filmmaking — we uncovered possibly the biggest work crushes in the film industry. In this conversation, you’ll hear from: Emmy-winning editor, Taylor Mason - Editor for the psychological horror film Birth/Rebirth which premiered in the Midnight section on say one of Sundance. Mason’s previous work includes the Netflix mini-series Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, and Pose, as well as the variety show A Black Lady Sketch Show, for which Taylor and her team of editors became the first all-Black team to win a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Picture Editing. Jon Philpot - Editor for the mockumentary film Theater Camp. Jon previously worked on beloved comedy series like Hacks, Search Party, Broad City, and Awkwafina is Nora From Queens, and At Home With Amy Sedaris. Mike James Gallagher and Anthony Vanchure - Part of the sound team on Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman, the pair also recently worked on the biopic Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, as well as Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me and their collaboration on the documentary Lucy and Desi earned the pair an Emmy nomination. In this episode, we discuss… Breaking story as an editor The emotions of door sounds Temp sound and editors hoping to impress the sound designers and vice-versa Figuring out the most interesting way to keep people engaged The great thing about low budget projects Balancing the tone of a more dramatic story with moments of levity The great combination of laughter and fear How sound design can affect people psychologically Why it's so fun for editors and sound designers to collaborate Memorable Quotes “Is this a scene? Is this supposed to be entertaining? What does this have to do with anything?” [16:14] “I wanna do a great job. I wanna do that on every project I work on. You don’t just want to half ass it.” [21:38] “The idea of mixing comedy and horror together is phenomenal.” [31:00] “I love working with editors that take sound seriously.” [41:35] Mentioned: Taylor Mason Instagram Jon Philpot Instagram Mike James Gallagher Instagram, website and sound design deconstructions Anthony Vanchure Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we talk about considering the advice of others, while still being the architect of your own destiny. Also, we chat about maintaining healthy relationships with collaborators and the importance of clear communication. In this episode, we talk about… Our experiences with agencies and the important lessons we learned Discussing the myths of management Trusting your instincts and following your “why” Why you need reps that truly believe in you and what you are doing Not working with the same people on all your projects Breaking out of the box people put you in Avoiding relationship rifts and how to handle it when it happens Memorable Quotes “People in that business burn out fast. They burn bright and they burn fast and they burn bridges.” [7:28] “You gotta do some internal housekeeping and soul searching.” [9:30] “You are there to evaluate them as much as they are there to evaluate you.” [15:22] “When we present ourselves with too many cerebral options, we get lost.” [24:37] Mentioned: Start With Why Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is director, Jason Woliner. Jason is the director of Borat 2, Nathan For You, and the latest rule breaking show, Paul T. Goldman. We chat about pushing forward on your ideas, even when receiving constant rejection. In this episode, we talk about… How comedy has evolved to include real people in real life situations People thinking Paul’s story is completely fake and that he is just an actor Allowing Paul to make decisions and follow his lead Finally selling the show after getting over a hundred rejections The role timing plays in getting projects made Marveling at the decisions Paul’s mind made in writing the script Memorable Quotes “I feel like there’s been this shift where real life is just crazier and funnier than anything that is just purely written.” [3:28] “The richness of life is so much weirder, funnier, more interesting than most written content.” [4:31] “Yes, it’s unpolished and it sounds different, but it’s a real person expressing their version of their life.” [15:34] “Most of my career has been spent trying and failing to get things made.” [23:22] Mentioned: Paul T. Goldman Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we host a roundtable discussion with cinematographers of four different Sundance films. We chat about problem solving on set, collaborating with directors, creative lighting solutions, protecting your energy for the stories you love, and finding the silver lining in the less than ideal projects. In this episode, we talk about… Four different Sundance films and what they are about How these DP’s booked their jobs Using a single camera versus two cameras Implementing unique lighting techniques Having longer takes with minimal camera movement Working as a gaffer versus working as a DP Finding the community you love and holding onto it Recognizing the opportunity cost when you take a film just to shoot something Memorable Quotes “I feel like I have a connection to all these films because I’ve lived in New York, I have multigenerational family drama, I didn’t join a satanic cult, but I did go to theater camp.” [3:37] “An intense amount of prep and being as prepared as possible with a detailed shot list, floor plans and photo boards.” [24:23] “There is so much value in working on sets in other roles.” [43:13] “You kill yourself for a movie and you don’t want to kill yourself for a bad one.” [46:08] Mentioned: Nate Hurtsellers - Theater Camp Nate Hurtsellers Instagram Dan Adlerstein - Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Souls Dan Adlerstein Instagram Scott Miller - A Little Prayer Scott Miller Instagram Zach Kuperstein - Power Signal Zach Kuperstein Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode, No Film School founder Ryan Koo, writer Alyssa Miller, and podcast co-host GG Hawkins discuss their favorite aspects of Sundance 2023. They discuss the most impactful films they watched, the nature of networking at the festival, and the exciting film acquisitions that occurred. In this episode, we talk about… Sundance films that we loved Mutual exhaustion and excitement everyone experienced at Sundance Understanding the currency of human emotion How, without Sundance, it would be difficult for certain films to be made Why you don't need a full scale production to make a brilliant film Having to navigate relationships in the industry with a guard up The value in making connections in such a concentrated amount of time Multiple $20 million acquisitions for independent filmmakers Memorable Quotes “Diversity in emotion. The entirety of the human experience is found in this slate.” [1:32] “The currency of human emotion…will probably be one of the hardest things for A.I. to define.” [10:20] “Wow! Movies are so alive and well. Independent film is so alive and well.” [29:21] “You really bond when you’re freezing.” [30:26] “You are your own business as a filmmaker, and you have to be making these connections.” [37:50] Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recently we were honored to interview the director of Sundance film, The Tuba Thieves, Alison O’Daniel. She shares what it was like to create a film that focused primarily on sound oversight. The Tuba Thieves not only challenges the rules of filmmaking, but it revolutionizes the way we do captioning. Full transcript available here. In this episode, we talk about: A film 11 years in the making. Slow burn by design… The future of captioning and O'Daniel's How to Caption resource Breaking the rules of filmmaking Finding the champions of your project—both with labs and grants, and without ‘em Patient, piecemeal filmmaking No Film School's coverage of Sundance 2023 is brought to you by Adobe. Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No Film School writers, Alyssa Miller, GG Hawkins, and Ryan Koo discuss the opening weekend of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. We share why it has been so great to be back at Sundance in person. Also, we speak to a Powderkeg development executive about the future of indie films. In this episode, we talk about… The difficulty in choosing what to go to due to all the options Approaching your Sundance experience as if you are a character in a script Sharing our various objectives and goals for the festival Theories on the budget cuts Sundance has made The lack of distribution of the films at the festival Appreciating the happy energy of filmmakers at Sundance Powderkeg’s purpose for going to the festival How important it is to build relationships in this industry Staying true to your voice by not chasing mandates We also discuss the following Sundance films: Birth/rebirth In My Mother’s Skin Cassandro Claudio’s Song Chanshi Fantastic Machine Magazine Dreams Memorable Quotes “It’s so hard to watch a movie in the middle of your work day and feel like you’re actually at a festival.” [0:50] “Part of the filmmaker experience at Sundance is knowing where you sit in the pecking order.” [4:30] “Even if you have a film in the festival, it doesn’t mean you’re getting into the party.” [8:07] “The reality of Sundance is ditch or be ditched. And it’s gonna happen to you and you just have to accept it and go with the flow.” [8:19] “Be honest, be authentic and put yourself out there.” [35:05] Mentioned Adobe Alyssa Miller GG Hawkins Ryan Koo Powderkeg Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we offer our suggestions for how to have a successful Sundance experience. Also, we chat about having our film gear robbed from our cars, and we share our thoughts on a recent lawsuit against A.I. In this episode, we talk about… How people, who live in the same city, will make plans to hang out at a film festival in a different state Why you need to volunteer or attend Sundance regularly Getting over your ego and letting people think something was their idea How to avoid buying stolen gear Why we are worried about a particular A.I. lawsuit Figuring out how to wield the A.I. sword in the future Memorable Quotes “You start getting stuff into Sundance, five years after you go regularly.” [9:51] “You learn so much about whether or not you even have a chance.” [12:12] “My job is to make you think it’s your idea.” [27:07] “You’re a nerd. I can rent to you.” [36:56] “There’s so much happening underneath the surface that we don’t know about.” [45:53] Mentioned Artists Fight A.I in New Class Action Lawsuit Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Editor Lee Smith, editor of 'The Dark Knight', 'Dunkirk', '1917' and recently 'Empire of Light'. We chat with Lee and find out more about this invisible art. He also describes what it was like working on the recent film, Empire of Light, now in theaters. In this episode, we talk about… Comparing Empire of Light to other films he has done in the past The difficulty in choosing takes when working with great actors Knowing how things will work in post production Solving rubik's cube situations in the edit Trusting your own instincts What Lee thinks is the secret sauce to a good film The defining film of his career Pacing and rhythm of a film Memorable Quotes “It’s the same kind of thing as cutting a bigger film, just in a shorter amount of time and with obviously less complexity in the visual world.” [4:50] “There’s a million things in editing that you can do to tweak anything.” [8:30] “I am a lover of most films. There are very few films I won’t watch.” [13:18] Mentioned Empire of Light is in theaters Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we discuss the importance and benefits of diversity in filmmaking. Also, we chat about the problems with how the industry handles VFX work, and we discuss a big dilemma Francis Ford Coppola is now facing. In this episode, we talk about… The Golden Globes problem with diversity Proactively diversifying our teams The clique-like nature of filmmaking How the industry doesn’t want to acknowledge good VFX work Our theories about Francis Ford Coppola losing his entire crew Why you should never self finance a movie Memorable Quotes “More diverse teams yield better products,stories, and films.” [5:53] “Culture fit tends to become this blanket term of something that’s hard to overcome.” [8:35] “Making conscious effort to find new collaborators is an exciting thing that should be pursued” [10:45] “There’s a danger in brushing aside the labor that goes into it.” [21:27] Mentioned Golden Globe winners Is Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Megalopolis’ in Trouble? Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the past thirteen years, No Film School has published thousands of free articles, videos, and podcasts (this is episode 600!). But to really impact filmmakers’ careers, we’ve always wanted to create in-depth online courses available to everyone around the world. After a decade, we’re finally doing it with How to Make Money as a Cinematographer. Editor-in-chief George Edelman is joined by NFS Founder Ryan Koo and director/DP Charles Haine to talk about why we created our very first in-depth online course. In this episode, we talk about… Developing a course for the past 1.5 years Our exclusive worldwide survey of cinematographer day rates Tools and tips that will help you save money and increase your revenue Putting the “school” in No Film School The reason there are so many cinematographers in the NFS community How to buy and profit off your gear (hint: don't use a credit card!) Mentioned How To Make Money As A Cinematographer (launch week pricing available now for 40% off) The First Feature - The making of AMATEUR with writer-director Ryan Koo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For most of the history of the entertainment industry, there has been a large disconnect between what audiences want to see and what the large studios create. In this episode, we find out how one company is changing that by re-shaping the industry in a meaningful way. In this episode, we talk about… Legion M - The world's first fan-owned entertainment company Why Paul Scanlan and Jeff Annison started Legion M Being grateful for the community that has taken a chance on this experiment Breaking the big wall between those who make the content and those who watch the content The many diverse ways investors are directly involved in the company Getting emotional ROI from being involved in the company Sharing advance screening of film with their elite scouts The low cost to invest with Legion M Memorable Quotes “We’re uniting entertainment fans from all around the world, to co-own our own entertainment company. Think of it as a production company on it’s way to being a studio.” [2:34] “We are the ones who fuel the entire business. We buy the tickets. We pay the subscriptions. We choose what to watch.” [3:03] “I am not exactly an insider in Hollywood. I like to maintain an outsider’s perspective.” [6:12] “You don't make great art by committee.” [13:47] “Imagine having a company with a built-in audience that is not confined to an existing franchise.” [29:09] Mentioned Legion M Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On our final episode of 2022, we are honored to speak to innovative cinematographer, Darius Khondji. Darius is known for his work on films such as Se7en and Amour. Today he shares what inspires him, and he also explains what it was like working on the film, Bardo: False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths. Bardo is now available on Netflix. In this episode, we talk about… Why he first fell in love with large format Loving the idea of the actor being very big on screen Deciding on what camera and lenses to use for the film The strong connection he had with the director and the lead Being influenced by other films or works of art What seduced him the most about the story from the beginning Deciding to work on a film based on who the director is The type of genre he would love to work on Memorable Quotes “I love large format…I love working in large format. I love the actors being larger than life.” [4:42 “I love the way the camera tells the story. The presence of the characters and the presence of the landscape of this camera.” [8:43] “You have to be very careful with inspiration. Inspiration is just a fragrance.” [14:23] Mentioned Bardo: False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hearing stories from very experienced filmmakers is helpful, but we may miss out on relevant lessons that can only be gained from those just breaking into the industry. Today’s guest is Anne Sophie Bine, a young filmmaker who is getting attention for the first time, for her recent short. In this episode, we talk about… Being interested in stories and the visual arts since childhood Developing a close working relationship with production designer, Rick Heinrichs Feeling like you are creating things into a vacuum Why Anne attended film school, even though she was always against it The process of creating and funding her short film, Dog Lover Not getting distracted by networking and socializing Remaining open and not expecting anything in return Memorable Quotes “I kinda realized all of those things came together in film…It’s a place where it is not a disadvantage to be a jack of all trades.” [4:08] “It was necessary to have a visual imagination, a sense of story, a way with words, an understanding of performance, and an ear for music.” [4:22] “As exciting and big as those jobs were, they were in a way, taking me away from directing.” [11:34] “There’s definitely a momentum that builds there and it makes me feel like I can do it again” [20:25] “It’s kind of like dating…if you’re viewing it too much based on the end goal and objective, I think things can backfire.” [24:25] “Funding things sucks. Raising money is terrible.” [27:04] Mentioned Dog Lover Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is our “End of the Year, Holiday Podcast.” We discuss an interesting, new method of marketing movies. Also, we chat about the first official protest against A.I. Finally, we explain the best way to promote your indie film at a festival. In this episode, we talk about… Entering the theater with low expectations but then being blown away Our thoughts on the film, Avatar: The Way of Water Going bonkers for behind the scenes content How A.I. has already directed a movie Why ArtStation’s protest on A.I. is important Feeling worried about the future of careers in the film industry How you should go about promoting your indie film Memorable Quotes “It’s about the filmmaking now. The filmmaking is being advertised.” [5:14] “There’s nothing better than coming out of the theater with that adrenaline rush, with a group of people.” [23:41] “Don’t bring a baby. Don’t bring a burrito.” [27:19] “I’m 43. This is legit the first time I’m like ‘Oh fuck, this is like 80s Scifi.’” [40:49] “We’re on the downslope of the roller coaster at this point.” [42:55] “This is a mimicry of what’s happening in the country, on a wider scale.” [58:25] Mentioned Avatar: The Way of Water ChatGPT AI MOVIE TWITTER THREAD Defector article ArtStation Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we speak to Matthew Gentile and Matt Allen about the process of filming and editing the film, American Murderer. Matthew met Matt in film school, and invited him to collaborate on his first feature film. American Murderer is now available on Amazon Prime. In this episode, we talk about… How screenwriting and directing are different Matthew’s experience in film school Realizing he wanted to write his own screenplay Becoming obsessed with the story of the main character The things that keep you going when making your first film Filming during the heart of the pandemic The danger in trying to stick so closely to your storyboard Realizing you have so many elements to work with as a director Memorable Quotes “I couldn’t really find my way towards the right first feature vehicle.” [3:13] “I think it comes down to what story you want to tell first and then you figure out how to do it.” [7:34] “Before I wanted to be a filmmaker, I wanted to be a fed.” [10:31] “I started writing the script and as I wrote it, I realized, ‘this has to be the first feature.’” [12:12] “I write the first draft of the script. I think it’s amazing. I learn very quickly, it’s not.” [13:56] “That faith you have to have when you’re making your first movie, that this is going to happen.” [21:09] Mentioned American Murderer Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we discuss whether or not we care about the intent of the creator when we evaluate a film. Also, we chat about the importance of receiving advice, and we discuss why we are annoyed by streaming platforms. In this episode, we talk about… Getting in your own way as a filmmaker when trying to get the audience to change their minds about a subject How the original intent of a project can change over time Why the narrative needs to be ‘character first’ not ‘message first’ Responding to Todd Field’s remark that “advice is cheap” Why even small pieces of advice can affect your whole career Giving specific advice versus giving broad advice Why the constant changes of streaming platforms are annoying for consumers Missing the special features that came with physical movies Memorable Quotes “I’d rather somebody not intend a single thing and just be like, ‘Hey I made Speed. It doesn’t mean shit.’” [4:06] “The best movies, the best shows, the best anything, leave you talking about it or thinking about it days later.” [6:19] “Every good movie or every good tv show is about something. And it might not come to a final conclusion about that thing, but it’s about things that are bigger than just the story and that’s what makes it so rewarding.” [11:34] “I think the best creatives are able to be like ‘fuck that noise, im making a good story.’” [14:50] “When you love something, you start to see patterns that maybe aren’t there.” [15:03] “It’s gotta be earned. If you’re gonna make them change, you gotta earn it.” [22:07] “The A.I. can’t attack our Blu-rays” [48:33] Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is great when you have the opportunity to interpret a film for yourself and decide what it means for you. Filmmaker Todd Field offers this opportunity in the film, Tár. The film takes us through an epic character study that mirrors the way we humans experience the world. Tár is in theaters and available on streaming platforms. In this episode, we talk about… Todd’s inspiration to write and direct the film Putting the character in a position of great power How the character lives in a way that is contrary to the advice she gives others Letting the movie and music speak for itself The intent in writing the character as a real human being The very simple rules for this film What the editing and testing process was like Why Todd believes it is healthy to have differing opinions The pleasure of being the originator of the story Memorable Quotes “My writing life has been, for the most part, in adapting material.” [2:29] “Human beings…sometimes they operate with their better angels and sometimes they’re monsters.” [12:35] “This film is about this character. It’s about having an opportunity to meet this character in different facets of their life during this period of time. A public one, a sort of professional one, and a private one.” [16:32] “The secret dream of many filmmakers is you never have to go through production. You would just go straight to the edit.” [20:03] “That’s why we make films. We want the greatest possible engagement.” [24:07] “I think being a filmmaker now is probably the most exciting thing you can possibly do.” [27:16] Mentioned in the episode: Tár Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we discuss the 2022 Sight and Sound list of the best movies. Also, we chat about why cinema is not the all-healing tool of the universe, and we discuss the things that freak us out about A.I. technology. In this episode, we talk about… Our responses to the outrage of other filmmakers Not caring what others think about your taste in movies Three films that promote the healing power of cinema: Empire of Light, Babylon, and The Fabelman’s Written content produced by A.I. and the misinformation that comes with it Why we need to stop lowering the bar intellectually Developing that human touch that A.I. cannot grasp Memorable Quotes “We’re in a bubble. We’re all in bubbles.” [11:15] “We love it. We already love it. You need to do more than just tell us that it’s lovable. You need to do a little more.” [32:50] “If you aren’t watching what's happening, it’s happening so fast. We’re coming close to judgment day.” [38:16] “There’s a reason why the money people are salivating over it. There’s a very good reason why.” [51:26] “It’s a big leap forward into anti-intellectualism. It’s taking the human beauty out of what we consume and giving us this big giant hive mind.” [52:30] Mentioned in the episode: New York Times, History of Sight and Sound Did “Woke Culture” Sabotage This Best Movies Ever Poll? Empire of Light Babylon The Fabelman’s Run Pee App You Will Be Impacted by A.I. Writing…Here is How Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is cinematographer Ben Davis, who has worked on films like Doctor Strange, Cry Macho, and Guardians of the Galaxy. Ben shares what his process was like as the DP of the film, The Banshees of Inisherin, which is currently in theaters. In this episode, we talk about… Comparing the flexibility of a small film versus a larger film Being open to change even with a structured plan in place Capturing the idea of loneliness and isolation with cinematography Why Ben doesn’t work against the light source How they got the digital format to look like film Choosing the color palette with director, Martin McDonagh What is was like working with Clint Eastwood in the film, Cry Macho A powerful lesson about ego Memorable Quotes “The ambition on this film was to keep it small…so that we had some sort of flexibility and we could maneuver.” [3:49] “You’re always open to change. Because that’s the delight of filmmaking, what you chance upon.” [4:40] “The great thing about this film…everyone was making the same movie and everyone was on board with it.” [6:17] “I’m never going to do it as beautifully as nature can give you.” [16:50] Mentioned in the episode: The Banshees of Inisherin Cry Macho Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EP590 No Film School: NEW AI Tech That Blows Our Minds and How to Use Improv on Set In today’s episode, we share our theories behind the low Thanksgiving box office numbers, our successful and unsuccessful experiences with improv, and we discuss an incredible new form of AI tech that’s got us scratching our heads in awe. In this episode, we talk about… Comparing Thanksgiving box office numbers The big gray area of marketing Our past experiences with improv How improv is a tricky skill set but still possible to achieve Failing a ton - It makes you better and stronger Why NeRF technology will change the world of VFX The amazing uses of NeRF technology Memorable Quotes “There’s still something that happens when we watch it all finished. We don’t take into account part of the reason there are flaws.” [3:57] “I feel like something weird is going on with film marketing…on top of all the box office stuff.” [15:58] “Money is spent in such crazy, foolish ways that it’s just mind boggling.” [20:42] “Understanding the principles of ‘yes and’ will make you a better collaborator and creator, than anything else.” [25:34] Mentioned in the episode: NeRF technology Luma AI Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you the type of person that gets walked on or are you the bossy one, doing the walking? In this episode we discuss checking one’s ego, changes in studio executives, and the things we are grateful for, this Thanksgiving week. In this episode, we talk about… Disney bringing back a past CEO The art of managing talent relationships Thinking about things from the perspective of the studio Enjoying arguments with other filmmakers The recent collaboration between Tony Kushner and Steven Spielberg Productive disagreements and admitting when you are wrong How Charles and Todd were impersonated by criminals Memorable Quotes “You don’t go back to the old CEO. You just don’t.” [8:12] “The entertainment industry remains a relationship business.” [13:11] “Batman can be any guy and it can be any director.” [20:44] “It just looked like the general crap-fest we’ve been treated to.” [29:20] “I think the ego check gets easier, the bigger the rest of your life is.” [55:13] Mentioned in the episode: Tony Kushner Podcast Episode Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are those who write films and those who direct films. Today’s guest, Dean Craig was responsible for both roles in the recent film, The Estate. Craig, also known for writing Death at a Funeral, explains his process for both writing and directing. In this episode, we talk about… HBO denying his original script How having an appealing actor is a big piece of the puzzle Finding joy in the creative writing process Going back to first principles when facing obstacles Working on Death at a Funeral with director Frank Oz Being drawn to the challenges of being a director Appreciating the collaborative art of filmmaking Being a filter as well as the decision maker Memorable Quotes “Trying to create an eclectic range of eccentric characters and then bring them together and see what happens” [8:56] “I remember being four days in and thinking ‘This is not a job for one person.’” [15:59] “I really feel like the script is there and it’s there for everybody else to bring their expertise, talent, and brilliance to it.” [19:20] Mentioned in the episode: The Estate Death at a Funeral Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you have a short film that you want to get out to the world, you need to consider Shortverse. This platform offers filmmaker specific features that you won’t find anywhere else. In this episode, we speak to Andrew Allen and Jason Sondhi, founders of this incredible platform for emerging filmmakers. In this episode, we talk about… Supporting short films for over 15 years with Short of the Week The reason they created Shortverse Facilitating relationships between creators and industry professionals Numerous features such as: search filters, review system, and more. Interesting trends in the short film market The number one thing the industry is looking for in films Memorable Quotes “We’ve always thought of short film as this really powerful experimental media where filmmakers can really find their voice.” [4:44] “Imagine a platform that was built for emerging filmmakers to get their work out there, to connect with people.” [14:07] Reach for the thing that is fresh, that is new, that is risky and great. Rather than trying to cover your basis by creating something that is good and broadly accomplished.” [47:56] Mentioned in the episode: Short of the Week Shortverse Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two of the biggest names in the industry, Tony Kushner and Steven Spielberg, collaborate on a film about Spielberg’s early life. Tony shares what it has been like to work with Spielberg over the years. The film, "The Fabelmans" is in limited release Nov 11 and everywhere Nov 23. In this episode, we talk about… Being fascinated by Steven Spielberg’s life story How filmmaking helped to protect Spielberg as a youth by giving him control Working together on films such as Munich and West Side Story Battling one another during filmmaking Recognizing when he can’t convince Spielberg and trusting his judgment Keeping everyone focused on the outcome A particular scene of The Fabelman’s - Spielberg’s genius idea Memorable Quotes “Because I think that’s the extraordinary thing about art, both for audiences and for artists. It’s a dream. But it has real life meaning and sometimes real life consequences.” [3:55] “There’s a flash of insight that he has and it feels somewhat, kinda superhuman to me.” [5:50] “Filming things is like a second nature to him…I think he makes things difficult for himself, to keep himself excited.” [9:55] "Steven is very open to the experiences of other human beings.” [11:39] Mentioned in the episode: The Fabelman’s Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writing screenplays in our present time is challenging for a variety of reasons. There is more competition, lack of mentors, and less avid readers out there. In this episode, we cover what you should do as a screenplay writer when facing these challenges. In this episode, we talk about… Websites for screenwriting advice - The Black List and Wordplayer The cardinal sin of sending an unsolicited screenplay Making an effort to be better, more avid readers Advocating for your own material and overcoming the network effects Why you need to be a person that people like The many reasons to love Fuji Film Choosing a camera based on workflow integration and body ergonomics Switching from Twitter to Mastodon Memorable Quotes “If the screenplay is good enough, lock it in a drawer, and someone will come find it.” [2:09] “With every script, you have to decide…am I passionately trying to get this made? Or is this a spec to take me somewhere else?” [7:55] “With clarity of goal and purpose, steps after, start to become clearer.” [11:17] “Get in the arena and make the connections.” [24:23] Mentioned in the episode: The Black List Wordplayer Fujifilm X-T5 Mastodon Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we talk to director Parker Finn and cinematographer Charlie Sarroff about working together on the set of horror film, Smile. They share their special process of creating the film. Smile is in theaters now! In this episode, we talk about… Parker looking for the right “partner in crime” to make the film with How Parker’s short spread like wildfire Selling the pitch to Paramount Pictures Using cinematic language to work toward themes of the story Why Parker prefers a shot list over a storyboard What influenced the camera choice Thinking about the audience and what the film is doing to them Mentioned in the episode: Smile Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s smart to figure out the box you want to be in, since the industry is going to put you in a box anyway. Then you need to learn to appreciate your time in that box. In this episode, we talk about… James Gunn, director of Guardians of the Galaxy, running the superhero division of DC Showing up for others and celebrating their successes with them The SONY A7R V and its unique AI feature How Artificial Intelligence is getting nuts The number one thing that makes a spec fail Why making a simple spec is hard Memorable Quotes “One person’s success is not your failure.” [13:19] “Your goal with a spec, is that it should feel like a real commercial. It should trick people in an agency into thinking it’s a real spot.” [28:58] “Product work is a very specific universe.” [33:43] “Arrested development is phenomenal, but there's a gift in being able to do Seinfeld.” [39:48] Mentioned in the episode: Sony A7R V James Gunn - CEO of DC Studios Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Horror is best when it's balanced. It’s like baking, if one ingredient is off, it doesn't work. Teenage filmmaker, Jessica Nipperess, shares how she created the film, Devil Bean. In this episode, we talk about… Why Jessica is drawn to film festivals The Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera and the difference it made for shooting The main challenges in directing Devil Bean Feeling emotionally disconnected from a script written by someone else Using original music to help tell the story of a film Post production and the many changes made to the film Tapping into serious horrors that are helpful to the world Memorable Quotes “Films have always been like a chance to learn more about filmmaking through the experience of learning it.” [5:02] “This is what the film will be like, but less pigs and more coffee.” [18:56 ] “Horror is like a playground where we put out all of our fears and anxieties, and explore them in a way that feels safe and makes sense to us.” [25:42] Mentioned in the episode: Jessica Nipperess Devil Bean Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You win some and you lose some. This is what happens when there are shifts in the industry, and AI is bringing with it a major shift. In this episode, we talk about… Shortverse - The place filmmakers, industry pros, and fans of short film can connect The complexity and inevitability of AI being used in filmmaking Feeling frustrated yet fascinated for the future of AI Why giving and receiving feedback is one of the biggest skills you need to practice Different strategies behind giving notes Being extreme - We throw out gold stars yet we rip things to shreds The best accessories for shooting film on an iPhone Memorable Quotes “I am not gonna say it feels industry focused, but right now it feels a little industry-focused and I am A-OK with that.” [8:55] “The rate at which it’s developing and changing what we can do and who does what, is pretty insane and exciting and intimidating. And it’s just going to completely alter workflows.” [15:57] “This is going to cost people their jobs eventually. It’s not right now. But give it 5 years…and some people are gonna be screwed.” [22:37] Mentioned in the episode: Shortverse Word Player Will AI Make Movies Without Us Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to be a filmmaker? Then you have to be confident enough to have no confidence in yourself. This is the advice from Paul Feig, This is the advice from Paul Feig, director of The School For Good and Evil, Bridesmaids, and television shows like Freaks and Geeks, The Office, Arrested Development and Nurse Jackie. In this episode, we talk about… Applying lessons learned from his standup career and acting career Having more than enough film to choose from in case certain jokes bomb Setting the rules at the beginning of a film Remaining consistent with your style throughout the film How Paul handles making film for streaming services Hooking the audience so they will make a complete journey with the characters Why there is no excuse for beginner filmmakers wanting to start their career Memorable Quotes “The reason comedy never wins awards is because if you do it right, It looks easy.” [9:09] “You can make a movie as crazy as you want, as long as you set the rules in the first five minutes.” [21:12] “The hardest thing in the world is to tell a complete story, in two hours.” [24:49] Mentioned in the episode: Watch The School For Good and Evil now! Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do large studios, “run and gun” filmmakers, and project stakeholders all have in common? They lack humility. In this episode, we talk about… Talent Development Programs being mandated by the DGA TikTok creators becoming show runners for NBC Universal Studios being desperate for larger audiences Getting arrested for “running and gunning” How to prepare for a “run and gun” and what to do if you are caught Fuji’s new box lens with crazy zoom ranges and vibration reduction Fuji’s X-H2s camera joins the Cloud Using Davinci Resolve on the new iPad Pro Memorable Quotes “It feels like a true disconnect and a flashy name grab.” [7:59] “Don’t force someone doing something interesting, to do something stale because you’re the powerful powerbroker.” [15:52] I feel very strangely about the future of film. I feel very strangely about the future of traditional storytelling with a camera. I think it’s gonna change and I think we gotta be ready for it.” [23: 52] Mentioned in the episode: Fuji Box Lens for Filmmakers Fuji X-H2s shoots files to the Cloud New iPad Pro Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Gordon and Will Speck are the directing duo behind the film, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. This duo explains the complex process of adapting a well-loved, children’s book to the big screen. In this episode, we talk about… How Josh and Will first met and what inspired them to direct projects together Dividing the directing responsibilities between them Their unique approach to producing such a complex film Why they chose to adapt this particular story into a performance-based musical How they convinced the IP owners to give them permission for the project Honoring the artwork from the book in the making of the film Memorable Quotes “Something about otherness and about acceptance of things that don’t appear the way that you want them to.” [15:30] “There’s something about what you have to impose on these characters, or creatures, in the absence of them speaking...and it also makes them more soulful.” [23:42] “There’s nothing more complicated than a human-being. A human being is unpredictable.” [27:59] Mentioned in the episode: Lyle Lyle Crocodile is in theaters Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is there such a weird fixation on the box office numbers from the first three days of film’s release? We don’t think a film’s success should be determined this way. In this episode, we talk about… How some films that did poorly the first few days at the box office, became popular afterward Putting too much pressure on the box office release How to pitch a film that is similar to another movie that previously flopped When pitching, remember the phrase “similar but different” Challenges that actors have to endure The top four pieces of editing software for film Why DaVinci Resolve is the best overall editing software Memorable Quotes “It’s insane what can be produced from something that had a crummy first three days.” [6:02] “They really really really seem to put all their eggs in the box office basket.” [8:52] “The thing that broke my heart…is that most of the videos don’t even get a view.” [29:57] “Auditions are the worst. The Worst. Everything about it sucks…The experience is miserable.” [31:33] Mentioned in the episode: DaVinci Resolve Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Preparation, preparation, preparation. Director Halina Reijn shares why it is important to prepare before filming and how that process (and No Film School!) helped her on Bodies Bodies Bodies. In this episode, we talk about… How Halina started as an actress before becoming a director Implementing ideas from theater into the filmmaking process Leading with a vision and accepting collaborative ideas Having a flexible storyboard in order to make changes intuitively Rehearsing camera work before rehearsing with actors An economic and efficient way to do table readings Focusing on the wellbeing of actors on the set of Bodies Bodies Bodies Memorable Quotes “When I direct I love everybody to learn their lines like little machines, like little robots.” [09:32] “We’re all equal and we’re going to build this building together and you are as much responsible for getting it up in the air as I am.” [13:08] “Time is so expensive…Every fucking second counts. Your preparation is everything.” [14:35] “Acting is the most embarrassing profession of all time.” [23:04] Mentioned in the episode: Bodies Bodies Bodies Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your brain is part of your body. The way you eat on set will affect how you think on set. In this episode, we talk about… How audiences will draw connections from vague story explanations Charles’ theory on a recent tech mishap on Episode 7 of House of The Dragon Changing the factory settings on your television Ideas on how to improve the superhero genre Why characters don’t always have to be going through an intense internal conflict Easy and healthy alternatives to the unhealthy food on set Being aware of how food will affect your brain and body while you are working Preventing decision fatigue Memorable Quotes “There’s such an invaluable lesson about the power of an audience’s imagination and brain that gets disrespected left and right by people thinking they have to spell out the entire equation. You can just put ‘two plus two’ on the board; you don’t have to put ‘equals four.’ ” [08:19] “These characters are the human experience on a test drive…as a crash test dummy. We’re putting them through extremes of what can be endured, of what can be solved, of what can be experienced.” [32:19] “If I am at the Craft service table, I am getting a bag of skittles. So I just don’t go to the Craft Service Table. I avoid it.” [47:14] Mentioned in the episode: House of The Dragon Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Get your questions answered on the podcast by emailing [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices