Film Forums Podcast

Kimmy Gatewood is a director, writer and actor whose debut narrative feature Good on Paper (2021), starring Iliza Shlesinger, is out on Netflix.This contemporary romantic comedy shines a light on the darker side of dating and is based - at least in part - on Shlesinger's real-life experiences.In this in-depth interview with us, Gatewood explains how important it is to keep going as a filmmaker, her struggles of trying to make it as an actor, and provides advice for aspiring filmmakers. Kimmy's other credits include Glow (2017), The Baby-Sitters Club (2020) and Atypical (2017).CREDITS:Presenter: Aiysha JebaliVideo Editor, VFX & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Conrad BarringtonImages of Kimmy Gatewood: Mandee JohnsonThanks: Persona PR

'I was homeless and living in my car four years ago.'This is that kind of interview. An inspiring, genuine conversation about Edward Drake, the life of a filmmaker who hit rock bottom and is now making movies with Hollywood stars.Edward is the writer-director of APEX, starring Neal McDonough and Bruce Willis.LOGLINE: Five elite hunters pay to hunt down a man on a deserted island, only to find themselves becoming the prey.APEX is in Theaters, On Demand and Digital from November 12, 2021.Edward Drake studied at the University of Melbourne. A former assistant of Academy Award-winning producer Michael Sugar at Anonymous Content and director Mark Romanek, Drake has collaborated with Grammy-winning artists including The Fratellis, Jack Ü, and the Stanton Warriors. He is a member of the WGAw and has projects in development with 20th Century Fox, Lionsgate, and Disney.----------CREDITS:Presenter: Sean JohnsonVideo Editor: Jack JuddVFX/Titles & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Danny MorrisonStills and/or footage courtesy of: RLJE Films

During the course of this interview director Amber Sealey conceded that there have been over 20 narrative movies about serial killer Ted Bundy.So, it begs the question (which she answers before I get the chance to pose it): why make yet another film about this?Amber more than provides the answer - whilst admitting that she had her doubts about whether she was the right filmmaker to helm this version.Sealey also discusses the role of movie star and producer Elijah Wood in the film and her journey as a female filmmaker in the industry. NO MAN OF GOD (2021) is available now on VOD & Digital HD. Also stars Luke Kirby, Aleksa Palladino and Robert PatrickLOGLINE:In 1980, Ted Bundy was sentenced to death by electrocution. In the years that followed, he agreed to disclose the details of his crimes, but only to one man. During the early days of the agency's criminal profiling unit, FBI analyst Bill Hagmaier met with the incarcerated Ted Bundy in the hopes of understanding the psychology of the serial killer and providing closure for the victim's families. As Hagmaier delves into Bundy's dark and twisted mind, a strange and complicated relationship develops that neither man expected.  Based on actual transcripts of interviews between FBI analyst Bill Hagmaier and the incarcerated Ted Bundy.CREDITS:Presenter, Video Editor, VFX & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioStills and/or footage courtesy of: RLJE Films 

Isn't a showreel just a compilation of your best bits from your acting parts to date? No - at least, not according to a leading figure in the film and television showreel industry.Daniel Johnson is a writer and director from London who has made a name for himself by creating high quality showreel scenes for actors from scratch.In this lengthy and in-depth chat with actor and presenter Aiysha Jebali, Johnson explains why it's more important to choose one great scene for your showreel over five scenes from bigger parts that do not reflect your abilities as an actor. He also discusses the top mistakes actors make when it comes to putting together showreels and how to avoid them - and much, much more!Daniel has also written and directed short films including A Productive Lockdown - work which caught our attention here at Film Forums and led to this very enjoyable interview. CREDITS:Presenter: Aiysha Jebali Video Editor, VFX & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Danny MorrisonShowreel and film clips courtesy of: Daniel Johnson.Stills of Daniel Johnson: James Everett

In a filmmaker's roundtable-style interview, guest host Jim Page (Film & TV Editor) brings us an insightful conversation with the Watts Brothers, with a focus on their horror film Playhouse (2021) which Jim also edited.Fionn and Toby Watts discuss growing up in a creative family and making films in their childhood. For six years they worked on corporate films and then decided it was time to throw themselves into narrative filmmaking.PLAYHOUSE is available now on DVD/Blu Ray and VOD platforms in the UK and North America. Also available in Germany, Russia, Benelux, Taiwan and other international territories.LOGLINE: In a remote Scottish castle, an irreverent writer faces terrifying consequences when his daughter falls prey to an evil curse lurking within the walls.

Imagine getting your SAG-AFTRA card via Breaking Bad alongside Aaron Paul. Not bad, huh?That's what happened to rising actor Sarah Minnich, student of acting coach Lesly Kahn, who has gone on to feature alongside Hollywood greats like Nicolas Cage, Matthew Broderick, and can now be seen in the Netflix Original Army of the Dead (directed and co-written by Zack Snyder).In a generous interview Sarah shares with us the story of her acting journey, from being accepted into UCLA but being unable to attend due to financial circumstances, to game- changing acting coaching from Lesly Kahn, callback advice and things to avoid as an actor on set. Some of Sarah's other credits include Amazon Original Them (2021),  From Dusk Till Dawn: The TV Series (2016) and Better Call Saul (2015 - 2018).Army of the Dead (2021) stars Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell and Ana de la Reguera and is OUT NOW!CREDITS:Presenter: Aiysha JebaliYouTube Video Editor, VFX & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioShowreel courtesy of Elite Publicity / Sarah MinnichImages of Sarah Minnich: Lesley Bryce

If you love a Western, you're going to love this episode's guest. Writer-director Justin Lee is a rising filmmaker who has made a number of feature-length movies in the genre, featuring the likes of Bruce Dern, Mira Sorvino and Thomas Jane.In this episode, Justin talks about the importance of making your first movie, whatever the budget, getting the right cast and crew on board more than one project, and why he would like to sit down with the great Alfred Hitchcock...Lee's latest film is APACHE JUNCTION, featuring Country music superstar Trace Adkins (Moms' Night Out, The Lincoln Lawyer), Stuart Townsend (“Salem,” “Betrayal,” Queen of the Damned), Scout Taylor-Compton (Halloween I & II, The Runaways), Ed Morrone (Final Kill), Victoria Pratt (“Heartland”), and Thomas Jane (“The Expanse,” Deep Blue Sea, Boogie Nights). Apache Junction is an outpost of lawlessness, a haven for thieves and cold-blooded killers. After big-city reporter Annabelle Angel (Scout Taylor-Compton) arrives to write an article on the town, she becomes a target when notorious gunslinger Jericho Ford (Stuart Townsend) comes to her aid. Now Annabelle must entrust her future to a man with a deadly past, as Jericho heads toward a tense showdown in this thrilling Western that unloads a double-barreled blast of action. 

Our guests for this episode are Claire and Anthony of Bueno Productions who, in 2007, decided to make a documentary about Ghostbusters. Little did they realise what was ahead of them, as they interviewed the likes of Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver and the late Harold Ramis. The result, over a decade later, is the best documentary you could wish to see about a film franchise loved the world over. Here's an insight into their long journey to making Cleanin' Up The Town: Remembering Ghostbusters.SYNOPSIS:CLEANIN' UP THE TOWN: Remembering Ghostbusters delivers the most complete account of how the classic film Ghostbusters was made.  UK  brother and sister team of director Anthony Bueno and producer Claire Bueno have travelled all over the United States from Lily Dale to Jacksonville cross country to San Diego, LA and San Francisco, gathering interviews with over 40 members of the cast and crew. Responsible for bringing these stories to life include actors Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson and Sigourney Weaver, director Ivan Reitman, producers Joe Medjuck and Michael C. Gross, Visual effects crew include Richard Edlund, John Bruno and editor Sheldon Kahn.AVAILABILITY (AS OF SEPT 2021)Blu-ray / DVD and VOD:UKBlu-ray release 15th June. Distributed by ScreenboundShop via Amazon UK – RRP £14.99Shop via Zavvi – RRP £14.99Available on demand from 8th November on iTunes, Google Play, Microsoft Store, Sky Store, Rakuten----------CREDITS:Presenters: Richard Williams & Juana RubioAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioStills and/or footage courtesy of: Bueno ProductionsFILMMAKER WEBSITE: https://buenoproductions.com/MERCHANDISE: https://buenoproductions.com/shop/ WEB: https://film-forums.comFILM INTERVIEWS: https://bit.ly/film-interviewsACTOR INTERVIEWS: http://bit.ly/actor-interviewsDIRECTOR INTERVIEWS: https://bit.ly/director-interviewsWRITER INTERVIEWS: https://bit.ly/writer-interviewsPODCAST: Spotify: bit.ly/spotify-podcast-ffApple: bit.ly/apple-podcasts-ffAmazon: bit.ly/amazon-podcast-ffGoogle: bit.ly/google-podcasts-ffSOCIAL MEDIA:Twitter: http://bit.ly/filmforums-tw​​Instagram: http://bit.ly/filmforums-insta​​Facebook: http://bit.ly/filmforums-fbLinkedIn: http://bit.ly/filmforums-linkedinTikTok: https://bit.ly/filmforums-tiktok#Ghostbusters #HaroldRamis #SigourneyWeaver #DanAykroyd #Documentary #Filmmaking #BuenoProductions

Dan Mazer is a British filmmaker who just so happens to be Sacha Baron Cohen's co-producer and co-writer on Da Ali G Show (2000 - 2004), the Borat movies, Bruno (2009) and The Dictator (2012). Yes, if you've seen any of those, you know what you're getting into with Dan. Edgy? Tick. Comedy? Tick. Borderline uncomfortable? Gotcha.Other notable credits include I Give It a Year (2013), Bridget Jones's Baby (2016) and Dirty Grandpa (2016) with Robert De Niro.In this candid interview, Dan offers up some insights into the differences between directing and writing, how to make a film on a small budget (and much larger budgets), as well as providing plenty of useful advice for aspiring writers, directors and filmmakers.Dan's latest directing credit is The Exchange (2021), about an awkward teenager Tim (Ed Oxenbould), who hopes to find friendship with a French exchange student Stéphane (played by Avan Jogia). He discovers that the student is not as sophisticated and cultured as he assumed. Written by Tim Long ("The Simpsons," "Late Show with David Letterman").THE EXCHANGE is out on VOD and Digital July 30, 2021.Presenters: Aiysha Jebali & Millie HaywardVideo Editor, VFX & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Juana Rubio

Medalion Rahimi is an American actor perhaps best known for her roles in Before I Fall (2017) and as Princess Isabella in the Shondaland drama, Still Star-Crossed (2017). Since 2019, she has played Special Agent Fatima Namazi in NCIS: Los Angeles (2009 – ).In this interview, Medalion Rahimi discusses her journey into film and television; from working as receptionist and filming printer commercials, to sitting at a table read with Shonda Rhimes. She also talks about the importance of representation in the media, working on big budget sets and gives useful advice for actors starting out in their career.Credits:Presenter: Aiysha Jebali Video Editor: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioVisual Effects & Artwork: Richard WilliamsImages of Medalion Rahimi: Markhor Entertainment

Joshua had a difficult childhood, growing up homeless and in the foster care system. He also struggled with Childhood-onset Fluency Disorder Stutter. In this inspiring interview, he shares his harrowing journey to becoming a professional actor and how his experiences have empowered him. He discovered acting in his early teens when his foster parents put him into Catholic School. Those school plays led to professional theatre performances and then film and what started out as an escape from his day to day challenges and childhood traumas became his passion and long-term career.Joshua attended the Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training and got a BA in acting from Stony Brook University. After his studies, he fully immersed himself in acting, writing, directing and is building his reputation as a hardworking and talented creative.He was a recurring actor on the television series The Tick (2017 - 2019), starring Peter Serafinowicz (Guardians of the Galaxy, 2014) and has recently written, produced and is acting in After (2021) for IFT Network.

James Capel is an actor and writer who, in 2020 decided it was time to create something he couldn't seem to find anywhere online: a dedicated writing community.Scribe Lounge offers writers' forums, spaces to collaborate and Q&As with writers in film and television, all for free, along with a paid subscription service. Whilst the platform was created with screenwriters in mind, it is open to all, with novelists, playwrights, bloggers and journalists all part of the fast-evolving network.In this interview, James explains how quickly this writing platform is growing, and how it has reminded him of his passion for connecting with, learning from and helping to guide other writers. He also touches on something all writers face: how to dealing with rejection and keep writing. Furthermore, Capel provides a unique insight into working with others in a TV writers' room, where he penned an episode from series 9 of the popular UK TV comedy drama Cold Feet (ITV/Big Talk), refining the script alongside fellow screenwriter Mike Bullen.James Capel is known for Stormhouse (2011), Interview with a Hitman (2012) and, more recently, Cold Feet (1997).He studied at Central School of Speech and Drama, graduating in  2009.

In a rare opportunity to learn about the filmmaking process, we bring you an exclusive Q&A with the executive producer of Oscar-nominated Netflix movie The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020).Aiysha Jebali sits down with film producer Ryan Donnell Smith to find out what exactly a movie producer does and how to become one on big budget films like his.Have you ever wondered:Why are so many movies filmed in Atlanta, Georgia? What are the tax benefits for filmmakers shooting in Georgia? What are the different types of film producers?What does a line producer do?How do I become a movie producer?We cover all this and more as we discuss the business of filmmaking with the executive producer of Academy Award-winning director Aaron Sorkin's Netflix film.Winner of a Golden Globe for Best Screenplay, The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020) tells the true story of the trial against civil rights activists and anti-Vietnam war protestors in 1969. This group of individuals all  protested against the Vietnam War at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Their main charge was conspiracy to incite a riot, even though most of the accused were, in fact, not connected previously.A monumental and politically-charged trial took place under President Nixon's presidency and is remembered for the farce it became. The film stars Eddie Redmayne as Tom Hayden, Alex Sharp as Rennie Davis, Sacha Baron Cohen as Abbie Hoffman, Jeremy Strong as Jerry Rubin, John Carol Lynch as David Dellinger, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Bobby Seale, Ben Sherman as Leonard Weinglass, Mark Rylance as William Kunstler, Danny Flaherty as John Froines, Noah Robbins as Lee Weiner and Frank Langella as Judge Julius Hoffman.Presenter: Aiysha JebaliVideo Editor: Millie HaywardSecond Editor, Visual Effects & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Danny Morrison (COMING SOON)Transcription by: Nicole MitchellImage of Ryan Donnell Smith: The Riker BrothersStills courtesy of Netflix / Persona PR

Kyle Klaus is not your typical actor. Whilst many struggle with side hustles to support themselves during a long-term struggle to find work in the acting profession, Kyle has gone in another direction with more of a jet-set lifestyle. Whilst he's jumped on the long-haul flight that is the film industry alongside others in the acting fraternity, he's anything but a passenger.For Kyle is also a successful entrepreneur with his own YouTube channel; he opened his first real estate business back in 2012 and has since become a retailer and restaurateur. One wonders how he fits acting in at all. Oh, and did we mention he writes and produces, too?Among his acting credits includes roles in Homeland (2011 - 2020), Standing Eight (2016), Billions (2016 - ), The Last O.G. (2018 - ), Happy! (2017 - 2019) and The Blacklist (2013 - ). In the following lengthy interview, Klaus gives us a great insight into his experiences of becoming an actor, securing roles and getting his work seen. We also discuss his love-hate relationship with agents, how the pandemic encouraged video-call casting and, of course, his many business interests.(PS. He's done the actor bartending thing too by the way...)

How do you make a high quality movie on a micro budget? Filmmakers Hedy Wong and Hisonni Johnson have answered this question with Take Out Girl (2020), about Tera Wong (played by Hedy), who delivers Chinese food for her mother's struggling restaurant in Los Angeles. She takes a job from a local drug lord to move “product” in an attempt to free her family from poverty, crime and their violent surroundings.Hissoni Johnson and Hedy Wong talk to us about the importance of believing in yourself as a filmmaker,  how you don't need to have all the answers when you write an outline, and offer tips and tricks on how to create a feature film that looks like a studio movie on a 'zero budget'. The moviemaking duo provide a fascinating insight into the process of shooting the movie, scouting locations, and and submitting the movie to competitions, even before the film had been finalised, for the purposes of feedback.Wong, who has appeared in music videos with the likes of Chris Brown and Lil Wayne, was ready to shelve her script for Take Out Girl (2020). As fate would have it, she crossed paths with creative artist  Johnson, who has made a name for himself for making films on a very low budget with outstanding results.Hisonni Mustafa Johnson is a talented writer, director, actor, and cinematographer - in fact, if you check the credits for the film, you'll see just how involved Johnson was and get some idea as to how many creative strings he has to his bow.TAKE OUT GIRL is out now on VOD and DigitalCreditsVideo Editor, Visual Effects & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioSpecial thanks to Katrina Wan PR & 1091 Pictures

Tania Sarra has worked as a successful executive in the film industry for 12 years, executive producing a number of films, a member of the Advisory Board for the London Film Academy and becoming Director of Acquisitions for MGM Studios. A global pandemic hasn't slowed her ambition and in 2020 she co-founded the Global Women in Film Club and launched Hot Sauce For Film, a consulting firm to help filmmakers, writers and producers.In this fascinating interview, Tania discusses the complex business of film distribution, the secret to delivering an excellent pitch deck, and how Hot Sauce is helping make the film industry more accessible.CreditsTranscript & Edited by: Keren DaviesArtwork: Richard WilliamsVideo Editor: Ivan D'AvoineSecond Video Editor & Visual Effects: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Danny Morrison

Born in Seoul, South Korea, Brian A. Metcalf (WGA, PGA, DGA, VES, ASCAP) is an Asian-American, award-winning filmmaker (writer, director, producer and actor). In this interview, Brian talks us through the creative process for making his most recent film, Adverse (2020), a drama/thriller that he produced, directed, wrote and acted in. Brian explains how he and his filmmaking team managed to bring in a large ensemble cast with Academy Award® Nominees Mickey Rourke (The Wrestler), Sean Astin (Lord of The Rings, Stranger Things), Golden Globe® Nominee Lou Diamond Phillips, Golden Globe® Nominee Penelope Ann Miller and more. Adverse (2020) was picked up by Lionsgate's Grindstone Entertainment and is available now on VOD, Digital & DVD.Presenter: Aiysha Jebali Video Editor, Visual Effects & Artwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Danny MorrisonPrint version: Keren Davies Stills and Trailer courtesy of Lionsgate / Katrina Wan PR.

Actor Vikash Bhai is persistent. When he knows what he wants, he's willing to do what it takes. Bhai tells our presenter how he auditioned 7 times for the role of Farhad, one of the main characters in Ben Sharrock's BAFTA-nominated comedy-drama Limbo (2020). The film centres on four asylum seekers who are staying on a remote island in Scotland, taking cultural awareness classes, whilst waiting for their refugee claims to be processed.CreditsPresenter: Aiysha JebaliArtwork: Richard WilliamsAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioThanks to MUBI & CLD Communications

Writer Emma Needell has had a long wait for success but is now living the dream. After countless rejections, submissions, and evening classes, her script for family-friendly, coming-of-age fantasy adventure The Water Man (2020) brought her six figures up front, plus a cut of the movie's profits. It actually took Emma over seven years to get from the first words on the page to this point. Inspiring stuff for any aspiring writer struggling in front of a blank page or a blinking cursor right now.The Water Man (2020) movie features Hollywood stars David Oyelowo and Rosario Dawson, with none other than Oprah Winfrey as Executive Producer.In this interview, Emma provides a fascinating insight into the world of screenwriting, providing tips on what to focus on, the realities of crafting a script for the screen, and how important budget is to have in mind when you commit your imagination to the keyboard.The Water Man (2020) is available on Netflix.Presenter: Aiysha JebaliAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioArtwork & Web: Richard WilliamsImages & Trailer courtesy of RLJE Films / Katrina Wan PR

Keanu Reeves, Wesley Snipes, Eddie Murphy and Chris Rock? Oh - and don't forget Denzel Washington...What would you give to work alongside any of these Hollywood acting stars? To learn from them, maybe even sit next to them on a film set and suggest to them that the scene they just filmed was going to be the shot for the movie's icon poster - in this case, John Wick (2014)? Actor, producer and writer Kazy Tauginas can tell you all about it. He's been there and done it on films such as The Equalizer 2 and Dolemite Is My Name (2019). Yet rather than letting his ego rise and his head graze the clouds, his feet remain firmly on the ground. Kazy graduated film school at the New York Film Academy where he started building his filmmaking network, participating in a Q&A with the late Christopher Plummer, as well as Melissa Leo who was nominated for an Academy Award at the time. A solid foundation, then, for what was to come.Having worked on set with Hollywood icons, Kazy Tauginas is able to provide a fascinating insight into how to make it as an actor. Kazy's advice to aspiring filmmakers comes from a place of hard work, determination and natural acting talent, alongside screenwriting and producing work. He also has the perspective of having worked as a restauranteur and amateur boxer prior to making it as an actor and filmmaker in Hollywood.Kazy's award winning short film, Standing Eight, is about professional boxer, Dusty Abrams who is forced to retire and contend with life outside of the ring after being diagnosed with lupus. Proceeds from the film will go to help fund lupus research.

George Gallo is a man of many creative talents, including screenwriting, filmmaking, producing and painting. Since writing his first feature film, Wise Guys (1986), he has been involved in a number of successful movies including Golden Globe nominated Midnight Run (1988), and Bad Boys (1995).His most recent film, Vanquish (2021), follows a former drug courier (actor Ruby Rose) as she is forced back into a dangerous criminal underworld by a corrupt cop (Morgan Freeman) in order to save her daughter. In this fascinating interview with Richard Williams and Aiysha Jebali, director George Gallo discusses how the two worlds of filmmaking and painting intersect, what it's like to work alongside Morgan Freeman, and how hurricanes halted the filming of Vanquish (2021)! He also gives advice to aspiring filmmakers on the importance of having fun while making a film and allowing the film to exist without you. Credits:Presenters: Richard Williams & Aiysha JebaliVideo Editor: Millie HaywardAudio Podcast Editor: Juana RubioPrint version: Keren DaviesVisual Effects & Artwork: Richard WilliamsImages & Trailer courtesy of Lionsgate / Katrina Wan PR

Alix Wilton Regan always dreamt of becoming an actress. She was the youngest person to be admitted to the prestigious Drama Studio London and has since worked alongside Glenn Close in The Wife (2017).Regan has also found enormous success as a voice actor for well-known video games such as Assassin's Creed and Mass Effect 3, as well as being the voice of Comedy Central and FOX. She even got to wind up John Cleese from the safety of being the 'Voice of a Sat Nav' in a Specsavers advert.   In this entertaining conversation, this award-winning actor discusses her journey into the industry, from getting signed to an agency at 17 and rising up the ranks in British television, to working alongside Uma Thurman for Apple TV Drama Tailspin / Suspicion, and walking the red carpet at Cannes Film Festival.Credits: Presenter: Aiysha JebaliPodcast Sound Editor: Juana RubioArtwork: Richard Williams

'What matters is the story and how you craft it.'Jia Wertz is an award-winning independent documentary filmmaker focusing on true crime stories that shine a powerful light on wrongful convictions and the shortcomings of the American Justice system.At 16 years old, Jeffrey Deskovic fell victim to a serious miscarriage of justice when he was convicted of the rape and murder of Angela Correa - a 15 year old high school classmate. His journey, courage and fight for freedom is documented by Jia Wertz in her short documentary Conviction (2020), now available on Amazon Prime Video.In this fascinating interview, the Canadian-born New York-based storyteller opens up about her passion for making documentaries, on writing for prestigious publications like Forbes, and provides advice for the next generation of indie filmmakers.You can watch the award-winning exposé, Conviction (2020) on Amazon Prime: http://bit.ly/conviction-jia-wertzThe feature-length version of Conviction is due to be released in 2021.Read the full interview: https://bit.ly/jia-wertz-filmmaker-ffCREDITSInterviewer/Video Editor/Visual Effects/Artwork: Richard WilliamsConviction (2020) trailer footage and stills: Jia WertzAudio Podcast Editor: Danny Morrison

'Every director and producer worth their salt understands how important editing is' says Jim Page, a film and television editor with over 15 years of experience and counting.The list of clients that this impressively accomplished video editing professional will leave beginner editors of film salivating... Most won't get anywhere near the likes of ITV soap Coronation Street and BBC's EastEnders, alongside award-winning films like No More Wings (2018) and work for brands such as Samsung and Disney as well as documentaries for Discovery and other major tv channels.In this in-depth interview, video editing guru Jim Page talks about a previous lack of self confidence, losing his way and starting from the bottom of the ladder, to getting the chance to work on projects with increasing prestige.His advice includes not worrying about dropping money you probably don't have on expensive equipment, take any job you can to begin with, and the art of video editing itself. A must-listen for anyone looking to become an editor in the film and tv industry from this Berlinale Talent alumnus.

After he graduated from the Montreal Film School, Hicham Hajji spent a year working on high profile music videos. He then ventured to Morocco where his filmmaking career began in earnest, working on feature films as a first assistant director. Founding his own production company in 2008 in Morocco, Hicham has since opened a branch in Los Angeles where he now resides.Hicham has worked as a line producer on films such as Werner Herzog's Queen of the Desert (2015) starring Nicole Kidman, James Franco and Robert Pattinson.His directorial debut Redemption Day (2021) had awards bestowed upon it long before its release and was quite the gamble for Hicham, as he staked all of his finance on the movie. The man is nothing if not committed.In this fascinating interview, Hicham and presenter Aiysha Jebali discuss the challenges of shooting on location in North Africa, how Ocean's Eleven (2001) star Andy Garcia came to be involved, and what advice he would give to aspiring filmmakers.Redemption Day (2001) also stars Gary Dourdan (CSI Investigation (2000 - 2015)), Serinda Swan (Inhumans (2017), Ballers (2015 - 2019)), Ernie Hudson of Ghostbusters (1984) fame and Martin Donovan who featured in Christopher Nolan's Tenet (2020).

Mike P. Nelson is the director of the newest instalment of a classic horror franchise, with Wrong Turn (2021). The film follows a group of friends as they hike the Appalachian Trail. When they stray from the path, they stumble upon an isolated community who have lived there for hundreds of years and will go to any length to protect their way of life.In this interview, filmmaker Mike talks with Aiysha Jebali about his journey breaking into the film industry; from working in a grocery store and filming weddings, to making his first feature film with MGM. The key to his success? No matter what he was doing, he never stopped creating. Be sure to watch until the end as Nelson shares valuable tips for film students and aspiring filmmakers, including how to work with studio executives and retain your creative vision for a film project.Wrong Turn (2021) is available on VOD, Digital, DVD and Blu-ray from 23rd February 2021.Starring Matthew Modine (Stranger Things (2016 - ), Full Metal Jacket (1987), The Dark Knight Rises (2012), Adain Bradley (The Bold and The Beautiful (1987 - ) , All American (2018 - ), Bill Sage (Orange Is The New Black (2013 - 2019) and Charlotte Vega (Warrior Nun 2020 - ). 

2019's Joker was a dark, twisted journey into the origins of one of pop culture's greatest villains, brought to life through an Oscar-winning Joaquin Phoenix performance. The film inspired many unique and wonderful pieces of artwork, and it was one such piece which grabbed our attention here at Film Forums. Glen Stone, illustrator and a self-confessed Batman super-fan, produced a fantastic piece which drew such acclaim Warner Bros. used it on the Italian collector's edition Blu-Ray. After coming across Glen's work on social media, Film Forums creator Richard Williams simply had to cheekily ask for an interview. Thankfully Glen, already a huge film fan, met the invitation with a thumbs up and a smile as big as the Joker's.  To learn more about Glen Stone Illustration, Pete Straley accompanied Richard to co-host this fascinating interview with Glen about his work, his love of films and comic books and how his Joker artwork became Warner Bros. approved.

What Liam O'Donnell has achieved with Skylines (2020) is just about every film student's dream... Starting out as a completely independent film venture, based heavily on the locations they happened to have access to, the film series has grown into a treasured collection of science fiction action movies. All three films are available on either Netflix, Amazon or iTunes and star huge names such as Lindsey Morgan, Rhona Mitra, James Cosmo and Alexander Siddig.The trilogy's director Liam O'Donnell shares his filmmaking secrets with presenter and actress, Aiysha Jebali as they discuss everything from writing the treatments to post production spending and everything else in-between.These films certainly pack a punch with phenomenal stunt artists from The Raid (2011), James Bond: Skyfall (2012) and Captain Marvel (2019), alongside actors like Daniel Bernhardt and Cha-Lee Yoon being willing and more than capable of doing their own action sequences too.Logline: "When a virus threatens to turn the now earth-dwelling friendly alien hybrids against humans, Captain Rose Corley must lead a team of elite mercenaries on a mission to the alien world in order to save what's left of humanity."_____________________________________________________________________________________Film Forums Podcast focuses on the people of film and how they have put their work in the public eye with success. We ask all your burning questions about screenwriting, pitching to studios, raising finance, submitting to BAFTA qualifying film festivals, distribution, marketing and more!We are interested in all aspects of the film industry from independent to blockbuster - all can find a home at Film Forums. We interview directors, actors and screenwriters about movies starring the likes of Sean Young (Blade Runner), Barry Primus (The Irishman, American Hustle), Jason Biggs (American Pie, Orange is the New Black), and Eduardo Sanchez (The Blair Witch Project).Credits:Presenter: Aiysha JebaliPodcast Editor: Aiysha JebaliVisual Effects: Richard WilliamsStills and trailer footage courtesy of Katrina Wan PRConnect with us!Twitter: http://bit.ly/filmforums-tw​Instagram: http://bit.ly/filmforums-insta​Facebook: http://bit.ly/filmforums-fb​​Website: 

Horror, though highly commercial, is a genre which has struggled for originality in recent years, according to many, perhaps more than any other genre. Often relying on jump scares, extreme levels of gore and the same old settings - audiences have been crying out for something fresh and exciting.Shawn Linden's Hunter Hunter (2020) gives horror fans a fantasy twist that they didn't know they were begging for. Our very own Pete Straley spoke with Shawn Linden, the writer/director of Hunter Hunter (2020) as he discussed the intense experience of filming in extreme conditions, the relief of working with a stellar cast and the challenge of making the transition from screenwriter to director.The incredibly humble and talented independent filmmaker was more than happy to share his filmmaking journey with us at Film Forums and such a pleasure he was to have on the show._______________________________________________________Film ForumsUK media platform Film Forums has launched a brand new podcast and talk show for filmmakers and film lovers. Each show features directors, producers, actors and screenwriters offering unique industry insights about the art and business of filmmaking.Film Forums have interviewed filmmakers about their movies starring the likes of Bruce Willis (Die Hard), Sean Young (Blade Runner), Ferdinand Kingsley (Mank), Barry Primus (The Irishman, American Hustle), Jason Biggs (American Pie) and Eduardo Sanchez (The Blair Witch Project).The new show is presented primarily by Richard Williams (platform creator) and actress Aiysha Jebali and is delivered via YouTube, major podcast platforms such as Spotify and Google Podcasts, as well as the website.Topics include all the burning questions that every aspiring filmmaker or cinema fanatic wants answered from both indie and blockbuster perspectives - like how to bring a script to screen, how to get a film financed and some of the mistakes to avoid as a first-time filmmaker.Film Forums are also collaborating with former major studio executive Tania Sarra to give away some once-in-a-lifetime prizes. Tania is uniquely placed to provide insights into the coveted secrets of getting seen by mainstream distributors!

That difficult question: How to Fund an Independent Film?The truth is, there are many routes and here we discuss some of the biggest ones with Jeffrey A. Brown - independent filmmaker of The Beach House (2019/II), distributed by AMC Network's Shudder.Just a few things you could consider for raising capital to fund your indie movie:• Create a pitch deck• Pitch to studios from a film treatment, synopsis or film script• Approach independent financiers with your pitch at any stage of the filmmaking process• Try crowdfunding using JustGiving, GoFundMe, IndieGoGo, Kickstarter or any of the other fantastic platforms out there• Self-fund or partially self-fund using your own savings• You could create a proof of concept and use it as a visual pitch for studios, independent financiers and/or crowdfunding•Enter film festivals with your proof of concept and network while there• Collaborate with other producers to bring together the capital, labour or equipment you need to make your movie.There really are just so many options. We hope you enjoy hearing how Jeffrey A. Brown got his film, The Beach House (2019/II), funded and the financing routes he explored. Most of all, we hope his filmmaking journey gives you some ideas and inspiration that can be applied practically.Jeffrey A. Brown is an NYU Film School graduate who gained 50+ credits on well-established film sets before embarking on his feature film debut. After gaining experience, he is truly going from success to success with his independent filmmaking career, as his film takes cinemas and OTT distribution platforms by storm.THE BEACH HOUSE LOGLINE:'A romantic getaway for two troubled college sweethearts turns into a struggle for survival when unexpected guests - and the surrounding environment - exhibit signs of a mysterious infection.'Credits: Presenter: Aiysha Jebali Video Editor: Francesco FurlanPodcast: Ivan d'AvoineVisual Effects: Richard WilliamsStills and trailer footage courtesy of Katrina Wan PRConnect with us!Twitter: http://bit.ly/filmforums-tw​Instagram: http://bit.ly/filmforums-insta​Facebook: http://bit.ly/filmforums-fb​​Website: http://bit.ly/film-forums-website

Political exile and award-winning filmmaker, Nadira Murray, tells Film Forums' Aiysha Jebali exactly what inspired her cinematic rendition of the UK former "Fast Track" deportation system in her film Locked In (2017).When we think of such a topic as detention centres and deportation, we often expect to see it in a  documentary format. This can sometimes feel quite detached and almost cold. We may even be less connected to the very raw subjects featured than we are to the characters in a far less realistic Sci-Fi movie.It was this knowledge and Murray's personal love of cinema that spurred her on to bring the stories of so many in suffering to life in a narrative film with characters we could relate to.Her RADA training and strong acting background meant that Nadira was dedicated to finding the right people to tell this important story via crucial casting efforts.Not to mention, it has been over 16 years since Nadira herself has been able to return home to Uzbekistan, since fleeing for political protection.Nadira knows this story all too well and has stood hand-in-hand with many others who are new to the UK and desperately trying to navigate our seemingly complex immigration systems in order to literally save their own lives.

USC School of Cinematic Arts graduate and successful filmmaker, Braden R. Duemmler, reveals what he has learned over the years - from being a student at a prestigious top-tier film school to producing his own cinematic horror What Lies Below (2020) and how it gained full distribution with Saban Films.Duemmler walks us through the most important aspects of filmmaking, how he handled his budget and how he made the connections necessary to get his film off the ground.What Lies Below (2020), starring American Beauty's Mena Suvari, is a science fiction horror that follows a 16 year-old girl as she returns home from camp. Her mother has a new boyfriend, one she is set to marry; a man whose charm, intelligence and good looks set him apart from the rest. Is he really all that he seems?

American actress, producer and recording artist, Tamela D'Amico joins presenter Aiysha Jebali for another insightful episode of the Film Forums Podcast.D'Amico takes us through her amazing career in the performing arts from an early age, all the way to her recent outlook-altering experience, the Cannes selected Indian film One Little Finger (2019) by Rupam Sarmah.This eye-opening film follows a neurologist (Tamela D'Amico) as she gives up everything to study music therapy in India. D'Amico's character helps the differently-abled come together through music and alters their, and her own, perception of what it means to be "disabled".

At the time of publishing this video the pilot episode of Boy*Friends (2020) has reached an incredible 1M views on YouTube!Isaiah Frizzelle plays Dom in the comedy series written by Noam Ash and Austin Bening, a show that follows two roommates, one gay and one straight, navigating their way through university to adulthood. Isaiah talks about how he got involved in the project and his hopes for the series in the future...Accomplished yet humble, actor and writer Isaiah Frizzelle also talks about the importance of having a solid support network while we embark on our creative journey as filmmakers. Isaiah touches on working closely with his friends such as fellow actors Kazy Tauginas (John Wick, The Equalizer 2) and Freddy Giorlando (Standing Eight), regarding them as family.Isaiah can also be seen in many award-winning independent films, such as, Standing Eight (2016) for lupus awareness and Terminal Legacy: Lost Souls (2016). Frizzelle's 'The Bird Brain Podcast' can be found on major podcasting platforms

We're delighted to bring you this interview with the charming and wonderfully talented Ferdinand Kingsley, who plays Irving Thalberg in the latest masterpiece by director, David Fincher. Mank (2020, Netflix) is set in old Hollywood and centres around the elite circle that were running MGM at the time Herman J. Mankiewicz was developing Orson Welles' masterpiece Citizen Kane (1941).Accomplished actor Ferdinand Kingsley, son of actor Ben Kingsley and theatre director Alison Sutcliffe, speaks directly to his fellow actors about how he carved out his own path in the performing world. It really wasn't as easy as you may assume. He discusses the criticality of training, the difference between film acting and theatre performance, his childhood behind the curtain and his preparation process for playing a character with such a contrasting worldview and actions taken, such as, Thalberg. This highly accomplished MGM film producer, played by Kingsley, became known for delivering the world's first mainstream "fake news", disguised as service announcements and documentary style clips in cinemas. Irving Thalberg produced these "news" segments using out of work actors and they were played at the beginning of most of his blockbuster movies, in order to influence the vote of the masses towards the Republican party.

People say that your soundtrack is one third of your film - so why is it so often overlooked by independent filmmakers?Film Forums presenter Aiysha Jebali discusses with Andrew what narrative music really is and why it is so important in the film industry with accomplished movie composer Andrew S. Markus from 4scoreand7music.Andrew also tells us how established men like him are supporting women in film and other under represented groups, by working at cost for the right projects, via his new initiative: The Equity in Film Program.

Lauren McCann, the writer and director of 'Girl Boxer', discusses the fine lines of morality in life and film with presenter and actress, Aiysha Jebali.Lauren wrote the gritty series' proof of concept which explores the ethics of when it may be tempting to take a life and whether or not extenuating circumstances make a difference.'Girl Boxer' tells the fascinating story of a struggling single-mother lured into the underground boxing ring by the Irish mob - however - the real question is, why her?---Film Forums Podcast focuses on the people of film and how they have put their work in the public eye with success. We ask all your burning questions about screenwriting, pitching to studios, raising finance, submitting to BAFTA qualifying film festivals, distribution, marketing and more!We are interested in all aspects of the film industry from independent to blockbuster - all can find a home at Film Forums. We interview directors, actors and screenwriters about movies starring the likes of Sean Young (Blade Runner), Barry Primus (The Irishman, American Hustle), Jason Biggs (American Pie, Orange is the New Black), and Eduardo Sanchez (The Blair Witch Project).

We talk Black Lives Matter, human value and white privilege with the director of topical film, The Subject (2020) written by Chisa Hutchison, starring Jason Biggs, Aunjanue Ellis and Anabelle Acosta."The Subject follows a successful white documentary filmmaker as he deals with the fallout from his last film, which caught the murder of a Black teen on tape. While he shoots a new doc series for a major network, someone films his every move, threatening his idyllic life." - Lanie ZipoyIf you enjoy this filmmakers' podcast, please follow us on your favourite listening platform for more. Please also subscribe to our YouTube channel where we post full length video episodes of these podcasts and other helpful content for movie fans, filmmakers and actors alike.---Film Forums Podcast focuses on the people of film and how they have put their work in the public eye with success. We ask all your burning questions about screenwriting, pitching to studios, raising finance, submitting to BAFTA qualifying film festivals, distribution, marketing and more!We are interested in all aspects of the film industry from independent to blockbuster - all can find a home at Film Forums. We interview directors, actors and screenwriters about movies starring the likes of Sean Young (Blade Runner), Barry Primus (The Irishman, American Hustle), Jason Biggs (American Pie, Orange is the New Black), and Eduardo Sanchez (The Blair Witch Project).

David Jonsson talks to Film Forums about his journey as a young, up and coming actor. From being on report in his East London school, to being selected for a Warner Bros scholarship at RADA and landing a series' regular role on the new BBC/HBO series, 'Industry'. ---Film Forums Podcast focuses on the people of film and how they have put their work in the public eye with success. We ask all your burning questions about screenwriting, pitching to studios, raising finance, submitting to BAFTA qualifying film festivals, distribution, marketing and more!We are interested in all aspects of the film industry from independent to blockbuster - all can find a home at Film Forums. We interview directors, actors and screenwriters about movies starring the likes of Sean Young (Blade Runner), Barry Primus (The Irishman, American Hustle), Jason Biggs (American Pie, Orange is the New Black), and Eduardo Sanchez (The Blair Witch Project).