Discover Indie Film

This is a special podcast for me. Why? Jon James Smith wrote and directed “Last Orders,” a horror short that took home the Grand Jury Award for Best Short Film - Horror at Film Invasion Los Angeles in 2022. As a London resident, Jon was not able to attend the festival but I made a point to tell him of how well-received the film had been. I invited Jon onto the podcast then and he held off for a great reason.              He did not want to Zoom in from London for the interview, he wanted to do it in person. Thankfully Jon's work returned to Film Invasion Los Angeles in 2025 with a new film, “Babushka,” and again he took home the Grand Jury Award for Best Featurette - Horror.                                                      But Jon was able to attend FI-LA's 10th Anniversary Edition and, even though I prefer to do nothing the day after a festival wraps... how could I say no to having Jon over to the house to record a podcast? I hope you all enjoy listening to our conversation as much as we enjoyed having it.                                                                                                                                                                                                        And a huge thank-you to Jon for being the kind of person who follows through on his intentions with actions! Learn more about Jon and his work at: JonJamesSmith.com @jonjamessmith @babushkamovie _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Monday, Listeners! Selina Ringel and Dan Levy Dagerman brought their feature film “You, Me & Her” to Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2023, taking home three awards!                                                                                        Those would be the Grand Jury Awards for Best Feature Film - Comedy, Best Performance by a Cast - Feature Film - Comedy, and Best Screenplay - Feature Film - Comedy for Selina. Excitingly, “You, Me & Her” had an innovative theatrical release! It was released in 200 theaters nationwide on Valentine's Day 2025.                                                                                                                              I should not have to tell anyone what an accomplishment it is for an indie feature to get that kind of theatrical release.                                                                                                                                              This indie romantic comedy was the first film to use Attend, a direct distribution platform recently launched by The Fithian Group.                                                                                                                       Additionally, after its VOD run the film will be released on the streaming service STARZ! I had been talking to Selina and Dan about their being on the podcast for a long time.                                                                                                                                                                                                     As you can imagine, a team with the drive to get an indie feature into theaters does not have a lot of spare time.                                                                                                                                                     Selina and I chatted about getting them over to record, as we live in the same Los Angeles neighborhood.                                                                                                                                                    Unfortunately our time was cut short and we did not get to go into their release with Attend as thoroughly as we would have liked.                                                                                                                                    If things slow down for them maybe they will come back! In the meantime, check out their website https://www.ymhmovie.com/ and enjoy this podcast. @selinaringel @dldagerman _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Matt Mazany wrote and directed the short film “Big Brothers,” taking home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Writing - Comedy at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024. After you listen to Matt's 4 Questions I highly recommend watching “Big Brothers” yourself!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             It's here on Matt's website at https://www.mattmazany.com.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Follow Matt on Instagram at @mattmazany _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Humpday, Friends! Matt Mazany wrote and directed the short film “Big Brothers,” taking home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Writing - Comedy at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024.                                                           He was also one of the titular brothers, having fun with his performance by handling the main stunt in the film himself.                                                                                                                                                   It's always the smartest move in indie film; if it's dangerous, get one of the producers to do it. I was looking forward to talking to Matt about “Big Brothers.” Besides being a fantastic film with a terrific ensemble cast, it truly is written and directed with an attention to depth and detail that one rarely sees. The good news is that you can watch “Big Brothers” right now!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         It is accessible on Matt's website at https://www.mattmazany.com. Follow Matt on Instagram at @mattmazany _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Ryan Barton Grimley returns to the podcast for the THIRD time! This time, to discuss “Listen Carefully,” the winner for Best Feature Film – Action/Thriller at Sherman Oaks FIlm Festival in 2024. It's fair to say Ryan has been a favorite guest over the years and I'm always eager to hear how the 4 Questions has changed and grown. You can find everything you need at Ryan's official website (https://www.ryanbartongrimley.com/) including where you can catch ALL of his films. IG @ryanbartongrimley _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Friday, Everyone! I'm supposed to focus on Ryan Barton Grimley's film career, right? But here's the thing.                                                                                                                                                                                              We met in 2017 when he brought the feature film “Repatriation” the second ever Film Invasion Los Angeles.                                                                                                                                                                Plus, Ryan came onto this podcast in 2018 to talk “Repatriation,” then in 2022 to discuss “Hawk and Rev: Vampire Slayers” on episode 304, and now he is back on episode 561 to discuss “Listen Carefully,” the winner for Best Feature Film – Action/Thriller at Sherman Oaks FIlm Festival in 2024. There you have it. I've known Ryan for eight years and consider him a friend. I mean, we have met for coffee to just hang.                                                                                                                                    That's for real, y'all. Heck, maybe when all three of our daughters, he has two and I've got one, are off to college we'll hang out more. You can find everything you need at Ryan's official website (https://www.ryanbartongrimley.com/) including where you can catch ALL of his films. IG @ryanbartongrimley _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Ren Olivieri brought his film “The Trade” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024, and took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking. As you may have learned if you listened to Ren's interview posted Monday, he's the type of filmmaker you just want to get to know better and better and naturally the best way to do that is to jump into the 4 Questions! Follow Ren on Instagram at @reno91 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Monday, Film Friends! Ren Olivieri brought his film “The Trade” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024, coming down from Canada to represent the film he wrote, produced, and starred in. This smart, funny, wonderfully produced short also took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking. I also have to mention that Ren is one of those most excellent people who makes the most of the festival, coming to the Gala and closing night mixer, as well as catching many screenings.                               But that's not why I like this dude... the truth is that we started bonding via email when I confessed to him my involvement in fantasy sports and sealed the deal upon meeting in person. But even cooler than becoming friendly with me, Ren met filmmaker Enrique Mendoza at the SOFF Opening Night Gala and the two kit it off, watched each other's films at the fest, and then... collaborated on a film! For all I know it is in post at this point or even done! Ren is my kinda person!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Follow him on Instagram at @reno91 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Tal Anderson is a talented actor, writer, director and producer, whose short film “Breaking Normal” took home a Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024. I was so glad for the chance to interview Tal and extremely curious to hear what she had in store for her 4 Questions. Tal's Personal Links: Website: www.theTALanderson.com IMDb: www.IMDB.me/TalAnderson IG: www.Instagram.com/TheTalAnderson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTalAnderson Tal's Work Links: JOY film : https://youtu.be/2-zDgrIsw1E?si=N1ps31t5NwinDwkW Hairy Yarns Podcast : https://hairyyarns.buzzsprout.com/ Breaking Normal : https://youtu.be/dbmW0vDamsg (This is unpublished but can be accessed if you click on the link. I'm using this one because it's the most recent version of the film) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Welcome back, Listeners! Tal Anderson is a talented actor, writer, director and producer, whose short film “Breaking Normal” took home a Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024.         Tal acted in and produced the film, but a quick look at Tal's IMDb page will show you what a genuine multi- hyphenate she is. Actually... I did this math before the interview and might as well share it. Tal has 30 actor credits, 19 editor credits, 9 producer credits, 8 writer credits, 6 director credits, and some other departments as well! It was a pleasure to get to interview Tal and get to know her better! And now... links! Tal got the following links to us... please enjoy her work! Tal's Personal Links: Website: www.theTALanderson.com IMDb: www.IMDB.me/TalAnderson IG: www.Instagram.com/TheTalAnderson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTalAnderson Tal's Work Links: JOY film : https://youtu.be/2-zDgrIsw1E?si=N1ps31t5NwinDwkW Hairy Yarns Podcast : https://hairyyarns.buzzsprout.com/ Breaking Normal : https://youtu.be/dbmW0vDamsg (This is unpublished but can be accessed if you click on the link. I'm using this one because it's the most recent version of the film) Links just for interest and follow up since Tal mentioned them: LINK to the Smithsonian Exhibit and Schedule: https://www.sites.si.edu/s/topic/0TO4z000000nTALGA2/japanese-war-brides-across-a-wide-divide LINK to article I wrote where I interviewed 3 producer/filmmakers responsible ultimately for the Smithsonian exhibit: https://joysauce.com/how-these-three-women-are-preserving-the-legacies-of-japanese-war-brides/ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Ethan Shaftel brought his Immersive film “Ajax All Powerful” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and took one the Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Immersive Short. If you listened to Friday's full interview with Ethan its no secret that “Ajax All Powerful” simply blew my mind and I was very eager to hear about the type of films Ethan was drawn to with his 4 Questions! Learn more about Ethan at his website EthanShaftel.com or @ethanaction on Instagram. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Independence Day, Everyone. And what better way to celebrate independence thank listened to a podcast about Independent film! Ethan Shaftel brought his Immersive film “Ajax All Powerful” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and took one the Grand Jury Award for Outstanding Immersive Short.                                                      Do I need to explain what an immersive short is? You watch it on the Meta Quest virtual reality headset and become immersed in the amazing world that Ethan created. “Ajax All Powerful” simply blew my mind and I think every person looking at these words right now should find a way to get their hands on one and watch Ethan's film. What else needs to be said in this intro? Learn more about Ethan at his website EthanShaftel.com or @ethanaction on Instagram. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Rob Neilson's film “The Word” was an official selection at both Film Invasion Los Angeles as well as Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024, which you might know is a rare feat. I should also mention that at FI- LA “The Word” took home the Grand Jury Awards for Best Short Film, Comedy and Best Cast Performance, while at SOFF it took home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Short Film - Comedy. Clearly I'm a fan of Rob's work and I couldn't wait to see what type of films inspired him. Here's the link to watch The Word yourself: https://youtu.be/ZPQA-gmSS6g?si=D-W4Jxs9LQrN1g-N If you want to learn more about Rob and his work, check out www.savagehenryfilms.com or www.robmneilson.com. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Welcome back and thank you for starting your week with a new installment of Discover Indie Film! Rob Neilson's film “The Word” was an official selection at both Film Invasion Los Angeles as well as Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024, which you might know is a rare feat.                                                        I should also mention that at FI- LA “The Word” took home the Grand Jury Awards for Best Short Film, Comedy and Best Cast Performance, while at SOFF it took home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Short Film - Comedy. You should watch this wickedly funny and cuttingly smart film right now! Here's the link: https://youtu.be/ZPQA-gmSS6g?si=D-W4Jxs9LQrN1g-N If you want to learn more about Rob and his work, check out www.savagehenryfilms.com or www.robmneilson.com. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Nicholas Burns wrote and directed the short film “Intertitle” that took home both the Grand Jury Award for Best Sound Design and the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Originality - Drama at Film Invasion Los Angeles 2024. He ALSO brought it to Sherman Oaks Film Festival later that year and took home- Filmmakers Award – Outstanding Writing – Arthouse/Experimental – Nicholas Burns Nicholas is not on social media so you'll just have to go to his website nicholasburns.net or listen to our chat released on Wednesday or his 4 Questions here to find more about him! _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Welcome back listeners and a special thank you to anyone who came out to Film Invasion Los Angeles this past weekend! There are many things I love and adore about the two festivals I run, but one of them is having an exciting new crop of filmmakers to invite onto the podcast. Nicholas Burns wrote and directed the short film “Intertitle” that took home both the Grand Jury Award for Best Sound Design and the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Originality - Drama at Film Invasion Los Angeles 2024. He ALSO brought it to Sherman Oaks Film Festival later that year and took home- Filmmakers Award – Outstanding Writing – Arthouse/Experimental – Nicholas Burns This uniquely original film brings a lot more to the table than simply its use of silent film era intertitles.                                                                                                                                                                              In fact, it tells one of the most compelling, personal and authentic stories that I have seen in my decade of festival programming. Nick hopped onto Zoom for this interview and I hope that you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed chatting with him. Nick is NOT on social media, but you can visit his website nicholasburns.net _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Vernon Davidson brought the feature length documentary “SEGAL” for a World Premiere at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and took home the Grand Jury Award – Best Feature Film – Documentary. Apparently I'm not the first to find Vernon an absolute blast and I was happy for the excuse to keep the party going with the 4 Questions. SEGAL-DOC.COM @SEGALMOVIE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

TGIFF (Filmmakers Friday!) Today is not just any Friday-- it's also opening night of Film Invasion Los Angeles, one of the two festivals I run! To browse the films & screenings just click here. But back to today's episode! Vernon Davidson brought the feature length documentary “SEGAL” for a World Premiere at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and took home the Grand Jury Award – Best Feature Film – Documentary. Vernon co-directed and co-produced the film with Ryan Krayser, and this wonderful retrospective about historic actor George Segal is a work that every movie fan should see.                                                 Vernon and Ryan did extensive interviews with George as they had worked with him on The Goldbergs and earned his trust.                                                                                                                                  Add in their great nose for archival footage and “SEGAL” turned into a film that, in my opinion, should enjoy a big'ole nationwide release. Please enjoy our chat and find out more at: SEGAL-DOC.COM @SEGALMOVIE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. David Lazaro, or Kuya Quatro to some, showed his Immersive music video “V. - Freaky Friday” at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival's VR Pavillion and took home the Grand Jury Award – Outstanding Immersive Short. It doesn't take long meeting and/or listening to David to see that he is a true artist and was very eager to see what inspires him in his 4 Questions!   @KUYAQUATRO KUYAQUATRO.COM _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Monday, Everyone! David Lazaro, or Kuya Quatro to some, showed his Immersive music video “V. - Freaky Friday” at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival's VR Pavillion and took home the Grand Jury Award – Outstanding Immersive Short. If you need any of this explained, you're not alone. The term “Immersive” basically means that instead of watching the music video on your TV oron a movie screen, you're watching it on a virtual reality headset. Got it? Because I am too darn busy at the festival to enjoy the VR Pavillion for myself, David Lazaro came over to my home, showed me “Freaky Friday” on his Meta Quest 3, and BLEW MY MIND.                                It is simply amazing. In around 4 minutes I went from being a person who never considered getting a VR headset to being a person who shouted for his wife and teenager to both watch “Freaky Friday” before David went home with his amazing work. And guess what? David is also a kickass person and awesome conversationalist who gave a great interview. Enjoy! @KUYAQUATRO KUYAQUATRO.COM _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Chicago filmmaker Michael Glover Smith came on to the DIF podcast to chat about his career and specially his excellent  film Handle with Care that was an Official Selection: Short Film – Drama at Sherman Oaks Film Festival 2024 and took home the Programmer's Prize – Exceptional Filmmaking. I thoroughly enjoyed  the chance to moderate Michael's Q & A at the festival and to have the chance to dive deeper with our chat posted Wednesday. If you know me or are a regular listener of this podcast, you know my journey with Michael could not be complete without the follow up 4 Questions! You can find more about Michael on his IG @whitecitycinema or Splittoothmedia.com   _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Welcome back, Listeners! Chicago filmmaker Michael Glover Smith's superb film Handle with Care was an Official Selection: Short Film – Drama at Sherman Oaks Film Festival 2024 and took home the Programmer's Prize – Exceptional Filmmaking. I was thrilled to moderate Michael's Q & A at the festival, and even more so, to dive back in to deeper with this talented and genuinely nice guy over zoom. You can find more about Michael on his IG @whitecitycinema or Splittoothmedia.com   _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. On the last episode I throughly enjoyed chatting with Donato De Luca, who I learned actually goes by Joe! Joe and his team brought their short film “Grand Romantic Gestures” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and took home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Creativity - Drama. I was definitely excited to follow up this interview with Joe's 4 Questions. You should definitely follow Joe's work at @grandromanticgestures and @donatojoedeluca _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Friday, Listeners! Donato De Luca and his team brought their short film “Grand Romantic Gestures” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and took home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Creativity - Drama. Amusingly, the young gentleman who I thought of as “Donato” for the entire run of the festival hopped onto this podcast and told me that he goes by Joe!                                                                                       I'm not sure if I called him Joe during this podcast, but hopefully he will come to a Festival Mixer soon for me to try it out in person. Joe is one of those filmmakers, in this case producer and lead actor, who we love to have at a festival.                                                                                                                                                                       He came to many screenings other than his own and when you listen to the interview you'll hear of the interactions we had that led to our amusing rapport. You should definitely follow Joe's work at @grandromanticgestures and @donatojoedeluca _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Monday Director Daniel DelPurgatorio and producer Todd Friedman chatted with me about their feature film “Marshmallow,” a feature length horror movie that gets its VOD release on June 6! “Marshmallow” has managed the impossible, an above 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Hopefully after hearing how this ambitious team took their film from the page to the theater (and now into our homes), you are back to hear their 4 Questions! Use these links to learn more: Instagram: @marshmallowmovieofficial TikTok: @marshmallowfilm Instagram: @hemlockcircle TikTok: @hemlockcircle _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Monday, Film Lovers! I can't believe we are already in June which means we are just weeks away from the 2025 Film Invasion Los Angeles Film Festival. This episode is for all of you horror fans out there. Director Daniel DelPurgatorio and producer Todd Friedman collaborated on the feature film “Marshmallow,” a feature length horror movie that gets its VOD release on June 6! “Marshmallow” has managed the impossible, an above 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. In this podcast you get to hear how Andy Greskoviak's screenplay for “Marshmallow” struck a chord with everyone who got their hands on it and the process this team took getting from the page to the theater and now into our homes. Use these links to learn more: Instagram: @marshmallowmovieofficial TikTok: @marshmallowfilm Instagram: @hemlockcircle TikTok: @hemlockcircle _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. On Wednesday's Episode of Discover Indie Film,  Producer Samantha Baugnon hopped onto Zoom to talk about “Homeschooled,” a feature length documentary releasing to streaming VOD on June 1! You should visit their official website at https://homeschooledthemovie.com/ right now and find out where to see it! This wonderfully made documentary takes a fresh, respectful and in- depth look at diverse variety of homeschooled kids and brings them together for a Prom at the end. It is truly the perfect conclusion of a beautiful film and I'm hoping this follow up 4Qs serves as an equally worthy ending of our chat. You can also follow the film on Instagram at @homeschooledthemovie _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Welcome Back, Listeners! Producer Samantha Baugnon hopped onto Zoom to talk about “Homeschooled,” a feature length documentary releasing to streaming VOD on June 1! You should visit their official website at https://homeschooledthemovie.com/ right now and find out where to see it! If you can watch the trailer on that website and not want to see the movie,                               then I'm just going to move you to the “dead inside” column. You might think that the title “Homeschooled” tells you all you need to know about this movie, but you'd be wrong.                                                                                                                                                      This wonderfully made documentary takes a fresh, respectful and in- depth look at diverse variety of homeschooled kids and brings them together for a Prom at the end. How cool is that? I already gave you the website, but you can also follow the film on Instagram at @homeschooledthemovie I hope you enjoy this podcast AND the movie! _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Friday I shared my chat with Jacob Langsner, who I know as the filmmaker behind the award winning animated short, “SUM: A Tale From the Afterlife.”                                                                                                  The film had its world premiere at Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and took home the Grand Jury Award – Best Short Film – Animation as well as the Filmmakers Award – Outstanding Writing – Animation – David Eagleman I was thrilled to have the opportunity to get deep with Jake and follow up with the 4 Questions. You can learn more about Jacob and his work at Jacoblangsner.com as well as on Instagram at @jakelangsner _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Friday Folks. We have a terrific interview to kick off your weekend. This episode's guest is Jacob Langsner, who I know as the filmmaker behind the award winning animated short, “SUM: A Tale From the Afterlife.”                                                                                                  The film had its world premiere at Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024, but I was in another theater moderating a Q&A and never got a chance to truly meet Jacob at the festival. That's why I love this podcast, I get to make up for the fact that I didn't get to discuss this truly wonderful film with its creator. And guess what? Jacob absolutely knocked me out by revealing that he is both a filmmaker and a recent law school graduate, working full-time in Las Vegas at a prestigious law firm.                                        Talk about a well rounded individual! SUM: A Tale From the Afterlife took home the Grand Jury Award – Best Short Film – Animation as well as the Filmmakers Award – Outstanding Writing – Animation – David Eagleman You can learn more about Jacob and his work at Jacoblangsner.com as well as on Instagram at @jakelangsner _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Lauren Moreno directed and co-wrote “Palmdale,” an official selection at the 2024 Sherman Oaks Film Festival that took home the Grand Jury Award for Best Featurette - Drama as well as Best Lead Performer - Featurette for Isabelle Marchard. I felt a deep and instant connection to Lauren and her powerful film and couldn't wait to dig deeper with her 4 Questions. You can learn more about Lauren and her work in Instagram at @laurenmorenofilms as well as get a glimpse of a future project at @bagboysfilm _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Monday, Everyone and thank you for tuning in. I know that sometimes I kind of turn into an instant-uncle with some of the filmmakers on the podcast.                                                                                                                                                                                I will come right out and confess Lauren Moreno joins this club.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          I am absolutely crushed by the authenticity of “Palmdale,” a film that Lauren directed and co-wrote the was an official selection at the 2024 Sherman Oaks Film Festival.                                                             The film took home the Grand Jury Award for Best Featurette - Drama as well as Best Lead Performer - Featurette for Isabelle Marchard.                                                                                                                   And it took home a little piece of me, as this wonderful movie lives in my heart.                                                                                                                                                                                                          And, through the transitive property, this means that my new unofficial niece Lauren Moreno is in there, too. You can learn more about Lauren and her work in Instagram at @laurenmorenofilms as well as get a glimpse of a future project at @bagboysfilm _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Jonathan Latona has returned to DIF because last year his latest feature, “DESTINATION:HOLYWOOD” was an official selection at Sherman Oaks Film Festival.                                                                                         We had another fantastic chat and follow up 4 Questions. After listening,  I highly recommend check out his work at https://www.jonathanlatona.com And you should also hit Jonathan's very own podcast about indie film, Guerilla Film Fam, that you can find on the above website or Instagram at @guerillafilmfam _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Hey Folks, it's time for another returning champion! Jonathan Latona was on DIF episode 193, back on Sept 27, 2021, to talk about his feature film “DOUG.”                                                                                                                                                                       But I met Jonathan even earlier than that, because his short film “Circles” played at Sherman Oaks Film Festival back in 2018. Jonathan has returned to DIF because last year his latest feature, “DESTINATION:HOLYWOOD” was an official selection at Sherman Oaks Film Festival.                                                                                         I highly recommend check out his work at https://www.jonathanlatona.com And you should also hit Jonathan's very own podcast about indie film, Guerilla Film Fam, that you can find on the above website or Instagram at @guerillafilmfam _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Christopher Saint wrote, directed and produced the film “Śokasana,” a beautiful film that had its world premiere as an official selection at Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and it took home a Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking. Christopher impressed me with his professionalism, artistic vision, and, of course, his 4 Questions! You can follow Chris on Instagram at @bychristophersaint _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Welcome back, DIF Listeners! Christopher Saint wrote, directed and produced the film “Śokasana,” a beautiful film that had its world premiere as an official selection at Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 and it took home a Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking. I don't want to spoil what Chris reveals during this podcast; suffice to say that he completely surprised me with his professional and artistic background. It was a pleasure to learn the origins of “Śokasana.” If you listen to enough of these podcasts you will come to know that for me there are no topics more important to human storytelling than grief, loss and pain. You can follow Chris on Instagram at @bychristophersaint _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Kevin Lee brought his Horror-Rom-Com short film “Aly” to the 2024 edition of the Sherman Oaks Film Festival and took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking! I truly enjoyed my chat with this unique and talented filmmaker and was eager to get to his 4 Questions. Use these links to follow Kevin and his film and, importantly, check out Aly on Letterboxd at https://letterboxd.com/film/aly/. Aly on Instagram @aly.shortfilm Kevin on Instagram @kleeplusfilms Kevin on Twitter/X @klee_filmreview _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Cinco de Mayo to those who celebrate! Kevin Lee brought his short film “Aly” to the 2024 edition of the Sherman Oaks Film Festival and took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking!                                                                               I love this film for several reasons, but it truly comes down to the originality of its story and the authenticity of the characters he wrote in a genre that is best known for cheap thrills.                                               In fact, just its genre alone, Horror-Rom-Com, says it all! Use these links to follow Kevin and his film and, importantly, check out Aly on Letterboxd at https://letterboxd.com/film/aly/. Aly on Instagram @aly.shortfilm Kevin on Instagram @kleeplusfilms Kevin on Twitter/X @klee_filmreview _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Enrique A. Mendoza brought his film “Fervor” to Sherman Oaks FIlm Festival in 2024 and took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking. I'm assuming you already listened to our fantastic conversion and enjoyed it so much you rushed back for Enrique's 4 Questions! _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

A Beautiful Wednesday to all you Beautiful Listeners! Enrique A. Mendoza brought his film “Fervor” to Sherman Oaks FIlm Festival in 2024 and took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking.                                                                                     And I will always remember meeting Enrique at the Opening Night Gala because not only was it the first time I thought of his film's title as a Spanish word, but I got to witness Enrique meeting fellow SOFF 2024 filmmaker Ren Olivieri with whom he has already made a film! You can learn more about Enrique at themendozaproject.com or on Instagram at @djurban01 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Andy Cochrane's Immersive Short “The Carrier” played at both FI-LA and Sherman Oaks Festival to rave review and, in fact, he is largely responsible for the festivals adding a new category called “Immersive Short - AR/VR/MR/360”.  Nerding out with Andy is a happy place for me which is why Friday's interview is 2 1/2 hours long. I was definitely eager to get to his 4 Questions to see what inspired an endlessly creative talent like Andy. Make sure to visit Andrew-cochrane.com and Loud-movies.com to see the awesome things that Andy does on a regular basis. @avclubvids _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Friday, Everyone! Should I apologize for this 2 1/2 hour episode? Probably, but I refuse to do so because Andy Cochrane has gone from the guy who sent a random email to Sherman Oaks Film Festival with the subject, “VR Submissions,” in August of 2023 to a guy I consider my friend. Besides our many shared interests, the day I went to his studio and met Andy in person to see this VR thing, instead of my just putting on a headset we went off on a tangent about the solar panels that had just been added to my home and... the rest is (personal) history. With a LOT of help from Andy we added a new category to the festivals called “Immersive Short - AR/VR/MR/360” and this cutting edge format has been a huge hit at the festivals since we introduced them at Film Invasion Los Angeles in June of 2024.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Andy's Immersive Short “The Carrier” played at both FI-LA and Sherman Oaks Festival to rave reviews. There is a lot more to Andy than just immersive video and that's why this podcast is so dang long. Listen to it, enjoy the nerdy chatter, and make sure to visit Andrew-cochrane.com and Loud-movies.com to see the awesome things that Andy does on a regular basis. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Real life couple Jerry van de Beek and Betsy De Fries brought their incredible animated short “Allure” to the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in 2024 took home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Short Film - Animation as well as the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Direction - Animation for its co-directors Jerry & Betsy. It was an absolute delight to chat with them about their talents, partnership and pets and I was thrilled to get to their 4Qs. Enjoy! https://www.littlefluffyclouds.com instagram.com/little_fluffy_clouds _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Happy Monday, Film Friends! One of the highlights of the 2024 Sherman Oaks Film Festival was the film “Allure” from animators Jerry van de Beek and Betsy De Fries.                                                                                                             This real life couple founded Little Fluffly Clouds (https://www.littlefluffyclouds.com), an award- winning Bay Area production studio specializing in high-end motion graphics and animation in all forms.                Their work is fantastic in every way and it should come as no surprise that a conversation with them is as enjoyable as watching their films. I nearly did not mention that “Allure” took home the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Short Film - Animation as well as the Filmmakers Award for Outstanding Direction - Animation for its co-directors Jerry & Betsy. I hope you're ready for a fascinating conversation about filmmaking, animation, and pets. And I hope you enjoy listening to this half as much as I enjoyed recording it! @little_fluffy_clouds _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Jacqueline Linares wrote, directed and produced the short film “What Friends Do” that played at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in December 2024 and took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking. Our conversation was incredibly fun to have and her 4 Questions were an equally enjoyable follow up. You can follow Jacky on Instagram at @jackyiguess (https://www.instagram.com/jackyiguess) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Welcome back, DIF Listeners! Jacqueline Linares wrote, directed and produced the short film “What Friends Do” that played at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival in December 2024.                                                                                              As you'll hear early in this interview, I find her film wonderful, genuine and heartwarming to the point that when I met her at the festival's Opening Night Gala and saw “What Friends Do” on Jacky's badge I immediately said, “Is it OK if I hug you?” (I learned when she booked the podcast recording that she goes by, “Jacky.”) “What Friends Do” took home the Programmer's Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking and I was delighted when I saw Jacky's name pop into my calendar for this podcast.                                                                       I did not get to moderate Jacky's Q&A at the festival, making this podcast particularly important to me. This conversation was incredibly fun to record and I have no doubt that all who listen will enjoy. Jacky has a very bright future ahead and I look forward to seeing more films! You can follow Jacky on Instagram at @jackyiguess (https://www.instagram.com/jackyiguess) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

Dedicated listeners of this podcast know that whenever Fr3deR1cK Taylor comes out to Los Angeles from Atlanta, we find time to record a podcast.  The good news is that Fred often comes out to L.A.!  The last time he visited, Fred and I talked for a whopping three and a half hours.  We have gotten feedback from people that perhaps we shouldn't talk this long, but since I am incapable of any form of self control while recording I chose a retroactive compromise; I chopped this conversation into three one hour and ten minute bits. Perhaps I made that decision pointless by releasing them all on the same day and giving them the same episode number with a letter suffix.  As they say, you can lead a podcaster to water but you cannot make them drink. Technically this is Fred's ninth guest appearance on Discover Indie Film and the fifth to earn the "shoot the s**t" title, indicating that Fred came by with no specific project to discuss. Learn more about Fr3deR1cK Taylor at these links: Fr3deR1cK.com tomorrowpictures.com @fr3der1ck on Instagram _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

Dedicated listeners of this podcast know that whenever Fr3deR1cK Taylor comes out to Los Angeles from Atlanta, we find time to record a podcast.  The good news is that Fred often comes out to L.A.!  The last time he visited, Fred and I talked for a whopping three and a half hours.  We have gotten feedback from people that perhaps we shouldn't talk this long, but since I am incapable of any form of self control while recording I chose a retroactive compromise; I chopped this conversation into three one hour and ten minute bits. Perhaps I made that decision pointless by releasing them all on the same day and giving them the same episode number with a letter suffix.  As they say, you can lead a podcaster to water but you cannot make them drink. Technically this is Fred's ninth guest appearance on Discover Indie Film and the fifth to earn the "shoot the s**t" title, indicating that Fred came by with no specific project to discuss. Learn more about Fr3deR1cK Taylor at these links: Fr3deR1cK.com tomorrowpictures.com @fr3der1ck on Instagram _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

Dedicated listeners of this podcast know that whenever Fr3deR1cK Taylor comes out to Los Angeles from Atlanta, we find time to record a podcast.  The good news is that Fred often comes out to L.A.!  The last time he visited, Fred and I talked for a whopping three and a half hours.  We have gotten feedback from people that perhaps we shouldn't talk this long, but since I am incapable of any form of self control while recording I chose a retroactive compromise; I chopped this conversation into three one hour and ten minute bits. Perhaps I made that decision pointless by releasing them all on the same day and giving them the same episode number with a letter suffix.  As they say, you can lead a podcaster to water but you cannot make them drink. Technically this is Fred's ninth guest appearance on Discover Indie Film and the fifth to earn the "shoot the s**t" title, indicating that Fred came by with no specific project to discuss. Learn more about Fr3deR1cK Taylor at these links: Fr3deR1cK.com tomorrowpictures.com @fr3der1ck on Instagram _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles

What are the 4Qs? (1) Three favorite films. (2) An underrated film. (3) An overrated film. (4) A lesser-known film people should seek out. Wednesday I chatted with actor, writer and producer Alex Frnka about her film “Blue Moon” that took home the Audience Award for Best Short Film, Drama at Film Invasion Los Angeles in 2022. Welcome back to check out Alex's 4 Questions! You can follow Alex on Instagram at @alexfrnka (https://www.instagram.com/alexfrnka). And if you appreciate a good book, Alex has her own podcast “Babes In Bookland” that explores the wide, wide world of women's memoirs. Check it out at Babesinbookland.com or on Instagram at @babesbinbooklandpod (https://www.instagram.com/babesinbooklandpod) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Website Sherman Oaks Film Festival Film Invasion Los Angeles

Hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful Spring Wednesday! Actor, writer and producer Alex Frnka brought the film “Blue Moon” to Film Invasion Los Angeles in 2022 and the film blew everyone away.                                                                                                   Wonderfully written, wonderfully acted, wonderfully shot, and wonderfully directed by FI-LA alum Diliana Deltcheva, “Blue Moon” took home the Audience Award for Best Short Film, Drama.                              This was no surprise, as the film's authentic intensity impacts everyone who sees it. We had around seven people onstage for the “Blue Moon” Q&A at FI-LA 2022, which means that this podcast marks my first opportunity to have an extended conversation with Alex.                                          She did not disappoint! I hope you enjoy listening to this podcast as much as I enjoyed recording it. You can follow Alex on Instagram at @alexfrnka (https://www.instagram.com/alexfrnka). And if you appreciate a good book, Alex has her own podcast “Babes In Bookland” that explores the wide, wide world of women's memoirs. Check it out at Babesinbookland.com or on Instagram at @babesbinbooklandpod (https://www.instagram.com/babesinbooklandpod) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Discover Indie Film Podcast Links DIF Podcast Website - DIF Instagram - DIF BlueSky Discover Indie Film Foundation (nonprofit for the arts) Links DIF Foundation - Sherman Oaks Film Festival - Film Invasion Los Angeles