Filmmaker Mixer

An unexpected power outage. A juvenile detention center plunged into darkness. Doors click unlocked, and a young incarcerated teen seizes the opportunity to run. But what does it mean to be free when the world outside is just another kind of prison?In this episode, we talk to filmmaker Paul James about his short film What Freedom, a raw and powerful portrait of a teen navigating the juvenile justice system.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with FM Le Sieur, an acclaimed composer known for his work on The Sticky. We dive into his creative process, the challenges of scoring for film and television, and how he brings stories to life through music. FM shares insights into crafting the unique sound of The Sticky, his approach to collaboration, and what it takes to create an unforgettable score. Listen in and get inspired!

Filmmaker Eva Aridjis Fuentes joins us to talk about her unique path in cinema—from narrative features and documentaries to deeply personal, character-driven storytelling. In this episode, we dive into her latest film Goodbye Horses: The Many Lives of Q Lazzarus, a poignant documentary that uncovers the enigmatic life of the cult icon best known for the haunting anthem featured in The Silence of the Lambs. Eva shares how a chance encounter evolved into a years-long friendship and collaboration with Q, and how the film became both a celebration and a tribute. We explore themes of identity, fame, disappearance, and creative legacy in one of the most unusual music stories never told—until now.

In this special bonus episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with acclaimed production designer Elisabeth Vastola to discuss her hauntingly immersive work on the new Prime Video series The Bondsman, starring Kevin Bacon. Vastola, known for her atmospheric design on Jessica Jones and The Punisher, dives into how she crafted a gritty, otherworldly aesthetic that brings this devilishly supernatural Western to life. From working with demonic lore to musical grit, hear how her vision shaped one of the most visually striking shows of the year.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we talk with award-winning journalist, writer, and director Olive Talley about her powerful new documentary The Stones Are Speaking. The film tells the incredible true story of archaeologist Mike Collins and his fight to save the Gault site—an unassuming patch of land in Central Texas that turned out to be one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the Americas. Talley shares how she crafted a film that is as much about the preservation of history as it is about the perseverance of one man's vision. We discuss the film's world premiere at the Austin Film Festival, its recent nationwide release, and how The Stones Are Speaking reminds us that individual courage can uncover truths that reshape history.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with La Tina—the acclaimed Colombian sound collective made up of Andrés Silva Díaz, Alejandro Uribe-Holguín, and Manuel José Gordillo. Together, they form the sonic force behind Netflix's ambitious adaptation of One Hundred Years of Solitude, based on the novel by Gabriel García Márquez. We explore their creative process, the cultural and technical challenges of bringing the world of Macondo to life through sound, and how their work pays tribute to the magical realism of Márquez's masterpiece. From atmospheric design to emotional texture, this is an immersive conversation about sound as storytelling.

In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Suissa, the multifaceted talent behind the new indie dramedy Greek Mothers Never Die. Rachel shares how her personal experiences inspired this heartfelt story of a daughter haunted by her mother's ghost, blending cultural identity, family dynamics, and supernatural elements. Discover the journey from a one-woman show in Paris to a feature film shot in Florida, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of bringing this unique tale to life.​

In this hilarious episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we chat with the dynamic duo behind the mockumentary My Little Hobby. Lauren Stava and Michael Costello share the creative process behind their comedy short, from crafting eccentric characters to perfecting the mockumentary style.Learn how Stava balanced directing, editing, and acting, and how Costello's sharp writing brought this quirky story to life. Get ready for laughs, insights, and a peek behind the curtain of modern mockumentary filmmaking.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with costume designer Vanessa Porter, whose work on Goosebumps: The Vanishing helped define the eerie yet stylish tone of the show. Vanessa shares her process for building wardrobe that blends horror with nostalgia, how she balances practical concerns with storytelling, and what it takes to design for a world where the supernatural is just beneath the surface.

On this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with filmmakers Toby Cochran and Adrian Ochoa to talk about their deeply moving animated short, Luki and the Lights.The film follows LUKi—a lively, soccer-playing robot who loves his friends and lives life to the fullest—until a sudden diagnosis changes everything. When LUKi learns he has ALS, his world shifts, but his spirit doesn't dim.Toby and Adrian share how they approached such a sensitive and rarely explored topic through a lens of hope, friendship, and resilience, all within a beautifully stylized, futuristic world. From the animation style to the emotional beats, this is a powerful conversation about storytelling with purpose.Whether you're into animation, indie filmmaking, or stories that stay with you long after the credits roll, this one's for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Deborah Puette, the writer and director of Such A Pretty Girl, a poignant short film that unfolds in real time over six minutes. The film delves into the complexities of family dynamics as Meg, a mother, navigates a moment of truth between her aging father and her young child. Deborah shares the personal inspirations behind the film, the challenges of conveying a powerful narrative within a limited time frame, and her aspirations for expanding the story into a feature-length project.​

In this episode, we dive into the haunting world of The Lonely Musketeer, a gripping black-and-white thriller by debut director Nicolai Schumann. Discover the creative process behind this claustrophobic tale of greed and revenge, shot entirely in a windowless room. Nicolai shares the challenges of capturing human trauma on an intimate level, his collaboration with lead actor Edward Hogg, and the artistic choices that make this film an unforgettable experience. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most provocative films of the year.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with Emmy-nominated actor turned director Alexandra Chando to talk about her thrilling directorial debut, The 8th Day—a romantic heist thriller set in 1994 West Texas that's now available on major pay-per-view platforms.We discuss Chando's transition from in front of the camera (The Lying Game, Sneaky Pete) to behind it, and how she brought together a powerhouse cast to tell a story full of tension, heart, and retro Americana grit.From honoring her favorite '90s films to working with a seasoned cast including Darren Mann, Phoebe Tonkin, and Valerie Mahaffey, Alexandra opens up about the creative decisions that shaped The 8th Day and why she believes now is the perfect moment for women to lead in filmmaking.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, hosts Andrew Lamping and Jeff Stolhand sit down with Rebekah Kennedy, Jennifer Goodman and Ryan Atkins to discuss their gripping psychological thriller The Unseen. In The Unseen,  a law student finds himself in a twisted web of murder and deceit brought on by a dark force from his past. Kennedy, Goodman and Atkins share their creative process, behind-the-scenes stories, and the powerful themes that drive the narrative. Join us for an insightful conversation about resilience, artistry, and the unseen battles we all face.

Step into The Cloaked Realm, an original dark fantasy animated series blending high adventure, political intrigue, and supernatural forces. In this episode, we sit down with creators Peter Alexander and Marisa Cohen to explore the rich mythology behind their series, the journey of bringing it to life, and their ambitious vision for season one.With a successful Kickstarter campaign and a growing fanbase, The Cloaked Realm is poised to make waves in the animation world. We dive into the world-building process, the inspirations behind the series, and the challenges of independent animation. If you love dark fantasy, complex characters, and immersive storytelling, you won't want to miss this conversation!

Filmmaker Kanin Guntzelman joins us to talk about his hilarious short film Two Cents and a Foot Long, a quirky and relatable look at the absurdity of customer service culture. We discuss comedy, crafting memorable characters, and the inspiration behind this fast-paced, comedic gem.

Makeup designer Helen Magelakis shares her experience working on the hit series Apple Cider Vinegar, where she played a crucial role in shaping each character's look and personality. We discuss the artistry of makeup in film and television, the challenges of working across multiple episodes, and the impact of visual storytelling through character's look and style.

In this episode, we sit down with writer-director David Fortune to explore his stunning new feature film, Color Book. Shot entirely in black and white, Color Book is a visual and emotional journey that underscores the power of creativity and imagination in the face of adversity. David shares insights into his creative process, the challenges of making a black-and-white film in today's cinematic landscape, and the personal experiences that inspired this bold narrative. Join us for an in-depth discussion about storytelling, artistic choice, and the importance of representation in film.

FMM bonus episode! Video version available on Spotify!In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with director Robert Rippberger to discuss his latest film, Renner, starring Frankie Muniz, , Violett Beane, and Marcia Gay Harden.Renner is a thrilling psychological drama about a computer genius who develops an AI life coach to guide him in love—only to discover, too late, there is a bug in the system.Rippberger shares insights into the film's unique narrative, his collaboration with the cast, and the creative process behind crafting a gripping psychological experience.Tune in as we explore the inspirations behind Renner, the challenges of indie filmmaking, and what's next for this talented director.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with director Aaron Ozlevi to discuss his gripping new film, Exile. Set in1955 Istanbul, this independent period drama follows the story of the impossible love between Eleni, the daughter of a wealthy Greek family, and Sedat, the son of a local carriage driver. Despite being in love since childhood and studying together at the Literature Faculty, Eleni's father, Stavro, hinders their marriage path, who opposes their union due to religious and financial differences. Ozlevi shares insights into the historical inspiration behind the film, the challenges of bringing this powerful story to life, and his approach to crafting an emotionally resonant cinematic experience.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with director Bryant Terrell Griffin to discuss his debut narrative feature film, Young King. The film follows Diondre Howell, an Iraq War veteran grappling with PTSD and the challenges of re-adjusting to civilian life. Griffin shares insights into the real-life inspirations behind the story, the complexities of portraying mental health, and the journey of bringing this poignant narrative to the screen. Join us for an in-depth conversation about storytelling, mental health, and the transformative power of cinema.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with director Chelsea Christer to discuss her short film Out for Delivery, which premiered at Sundance and is now screening at SXSW. The film follows Joanna, a woman facing a terminal illness who has chosen assisted death —only to find that her journey to a peaceful end is anything but simple.Chelsea shares the inspiration behind the story, the challenges of tackling such an emotional and complex subject, and the creative process that shaped this powerful and thought-provoking film. Tune in for a deep dive into storytelling, ethics, and the filmmaking craft.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with award-winning editor James Haygood (Fight Club, The Game) and producer Katherine LeBlond (Always Jane, Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution) to discuss their breathtaking new documentary, MOLA: A Tibetan Tale of Love and Loss. The film, which is set to have its U.S. Premiere at SXSW, tells the powerful true story of a Tibetan woman's journey through love, sacrifice, and resilience against the backdrop of cultural and personal upheaval.James and Katherine take us behind the scenes of crafting MOLA, from navigating the complexities of telling an intimate story set in Tibet to capturing the raw emotion of their subject's life. Join us for an insightful conversation about the art of documentary filmmaking, storytelling through editing, and the impact of MOLA on audiences worldwide.

Step through the mirror with us as we dissect Meat Cleaver, the eerie and enigmatic new horror film from Jared Asher Harris. With nods to Alice in Wonderland, Twin Peaks, and psychological horror, this film slices through expectations—blurring the lines between nightmare and reality. We talk with Jared about crafting an atmosphere dripping with tension, the twisted duality of his characters, and how horror can be both playful and deeply unsettling. A thought-provoking, ironic, and wickedly crafted film—get ready to dive in.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we venture into the icy depths of Out Come the Wolves with cinematographer Christian Bielz. This gripping survival thriller, set in the unforgiving wilderness, is as visually stunning as it is nerve-wracking—and Christian was the eye behind the camera, capturing every haunting moment.Join hosts Andrew Lamping and Jeff Stolhand as they discuss the challenges of shooting in extreme conditions, crafting tension through cinematography, and the art of bringing a chilling thriller to life.

On this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with Giles Alderson and Dan Richardson to discuss their eye-opening documentary, Food for Thought. This thought-provoking film serves up a hard-hitting look at the meat and dairy industries, exposing their impact on our health, the planet, and animal welfare. Giles and Dan share the challenges of bringing this story to the screen and the change they hope to inspire. If you're hungry for a conversation that will make you think twice about what's on your plate, don't miss this one!

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with filmmaker Cynthia Garcia Williams to talk about her latest film, We're Not Married. A witty and heartfelt exploration of modern relationships, the film dives into the complexities of love, commitment, and the gray areas in between. Cynthia shares her inspiration behind the project, the challenges of bringing this story to life, and what she hopes audiences take away from the film. Don't miss this engaging conversation!

In this episode ofFilmmaker Mixer, we sit down with Liz Toonkel, an expert in production design. Join us as we discuss insights, challenges, and the creative process behind her work. We'll explore her approach to designing the visual world ofSkincare, the collaboration between production designers and directors, and the evolving landscape of visual storytelling. Listen in and get inspired!

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with director Amanda Raymond to dive into her latest heartwarming and hilarious film, Stinky Summer! When a young girl and her best friend accidentally unleash a lovable skunk at summer camp, they must navigate a whirlwind of adventure, friendships, and unexpected challenges. Amanda shares insights on crafting authentic coming-of-age stories, working with young actors, and balancing humor with heartfelt storytelling. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at a film that captures the magic (and messiness) of childhood summers!

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with Emmy Award-winning editors Michael Anthony Brown and Michael Oliver to discuss their groundbreaking work on the hit series Welcome to Wrexham. From crafting compelling narratives to balancing the drama of sports and humanity, they take us behind the scenes of editing a show that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Whether you're a filmmaker, sports fan, or storytelling enthusiast, you won't want to miss this fascinating conversation!

Step into the editing suite of the hit series Only Murders in the Building! Emmy-nominated editors Shelly Westerman and Payton Koch join us to share how they craft the perfect blend of comedy, mystery, and heart in this acclaimed series starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. From balancing the show's quick-witted humor to building suspenseful twists, they reveal the secrets behind some of your favorite moments. Don't miss this peek into the world of post-production magic on one of the most beloved shows on TV!

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with the talented editorial team behind the hit Netflix docuseries Escaping Twin Flames. Join editors Inbal B. Lessner, Mimi Wilcox, and Kevin Hibbard as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of shaping the gripping story of a controversial online community. From navigating sensitive subject matter to crafting compelling narratives, this team reveals the art and collaboration required to bring this docuseries to life. Whether you're a fan of the show or an aspiring editor, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of Netflix's most talked-about series.

In this enchanting episode of 'Filmmaker Mixer,' hosts Andrew Lamping and Jeff Stolhand sit down with filmmaker and stop-motion animator Michael Granberry to delve into his dark fantasy film, 'Les Bêtes.' The story follows a mysterious rabbit with a set of magic keys who summons a host of strange creatures to entertain a wicked king and his decadent court. Inspired by the works of Ladislas Starevich, this stop-motion animated film is a mesmerizing blend of eerie storytelling and intricate animation. Join us as Michael Granberry shares his inspirations, the challenges of stop-motion animation, and the creative process behind bringing 'Les Bêtes' to life. Tune in for a captivating discussion on the art of crafting a visually stunning and thematically rich animated fantasy.

Step into the editing room with the extraordinary team behind HBO's hit documentary series Chimp Crazy! Join us as we chat with Evan Wise, ACE, and co-editors Charles Divak, ACE, Doug Abel, ACE, BFE, and Adrienne Gits, ACE. This talented group, nominated for the prestigious ACE Eddie Award for Best Edited Documentary Series, takes us on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of shaping this captivating story. From crafting emotional arcs to the art of storytelling in the edit, this episode is a masterclass for filmmakers and fans alike.

On this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with actor and filmmaker Robert Capron to discuss his gripping short film Vial. The story follows a relapsed addict who, after delaying a drug test with his parole officer, embarks on a desperate mission to find clean urine. With the stakes high, he risks losing custody of his son. Robert opens up about tackling the sensitive subjects of addiction, parental responsibility, and redemption. Learn about the challenges of creating such a raw and emotional story, as well as the creative process behind the making of this fantastic film.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we chat with Demeter Lóránt, the visionary director of Sileo, a short film that blends poignant storytelling with a futuristic backdrop. The film follows a robot who, after years of working in a factory and being repaired and replaced piece by piece, begins to question his identity. Determined not to lose his sense of self, he embarks on a profound journey to find his creator. Demeter shares his inspiration for the story, his approach to creating a visually stunning world, and the themes of identity, self-discovery, and humanity that resonate throughout the film. Whether you're a fan of sci-fi or simply love meaningful storytelling, this episode is not to be missed!

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with Julia Barnett and Mindy Raymond, the talented minds behind the chilling thriller Texas Cult House. Julia and Mindy share insights about their creative journey, the inspirations behind the film, and the challenges of capturing Texas' eerie essence on screen. Don't miss this deep dive into one of 2024's most intriguing psychological thrillers.

Join us as we sit down with acclaimed filmmaker Sean Pecknold to discuss his latest short film, Tennis, Oranges. This visually stunning and thought-provoking animation tells the story of a robotic vacuum in a pandemic-stricken hospital that embarks on a journey to Chinatown, discovering meaning and community in an unlikely friendship with a rabbit. We dive deep into the film's themes of purpose, connection, and creativity in uncertain times, and explore Sean's unique artistic vision.

In this episode, we chat with Emily Everhard, director of the award-winning short film Special Delivery. Fresh from winning the 2024 Enderby Entertainment Filmmaking Fellowship Award at the Austin Film Festival, Emily shares her insights on bringing her vision to the screen, the inspiration behind Special Delivery, and what's next for her as a filmmaker.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we dive into the satirical and chilling world of Princeton's in the Mix with writer and director Jonathan DiMaio. This razor-sharp short film blends social commentary with thriller and horror, exploring the lengths one mother will go to secure her son's future in an elite institution. We discuss the inspiration behind this darkly comedic narrative, the creative process, and how the film critiques ambition. Don't miss this fascinating conversation about a film that's equal parts smart satire and riveting drama.

Jeff and Andrew chat with Sarah Schoellkopf and Melissa Daniels, producers of Norita. This powerful documentary delves into the life and legacy of Norita Cortiñas, an activist and mother who became an icon for human rights in Argentina. Join us as Sarah and Melissa discuss their journey in bringing Norita's story to the screen and the impact they hope it will have on audiences.

In this episode of 'Filmmaker Mixer,' we engage with talented filmmaker Danicah Waldo to discuss her poignant short film, 'Sally, Get the Potatoes.' The story centers on a little girl's innocence being shattered when she takes an unexpected ride in her wealthy family's rolling laundry cart and uncovers their dark secrets. Danicah Waldo shares her inspirations for this powerful narrative, the challenges of portraying childhood trauma, and the remarkable performance by child actor Kynlee Heiman. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that delves into the making of 'Sally, Get the Potatoes' and the art of storytelling through the eyes of a child.

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Benjamin Wong, whose new film BA recently premiered at the prestigious Austin Film Festival. Benjamin takes us behind the scenes of his creative process, the challenges he faced in making BA, and the powerful themes of identity, family, and belonging that the film explores. Hear about the inspiration behind the story, the collaborative effort that went into bringing it to life, and what it means to be part of one of the most important indie film festivals in the world. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about the journey from concept to festival success.

We're thrilled to welcome Jordan Mechner, the legendary creator of Prince of Persia. Jordan talks with us about his journey from groundbreaking video games to his latest work, the graphic novel Replay: Memoir of an Uprooted Family. Listen in as he delves into his creative influences, the story behind Replay, and how his passion for storytelling continues to evolve.

In this episode, we sit down with Richard Fenwick, the creative mind behind the short film Soulmate. This captivating story, featuring Mandeep Dhillon and Joe Dempsie, delves into themes of love, technology, and the boundaries of human connection. Join us as we discuss Fenwick's inspirations, the creative process, and how Soulmate captures the essence of modern relationships in a digital age.

Join us for an insightful episode as we dive into the world of filmmaking with Adrian G de la Peña, a talented Director, Editor, and Producer based in Canada. With over 13 years of experience, Adrian specializes in horror and genre-related content through his production company, Machakiller Productions. He recently participated in the prestigious 2024 Film Market Access Market Readiness Program fellowship at Marché du Film in Cannes, highlighting his commitment to global storytelling. Adrian's creative pursuits extend to intriguing projects like "Naualli," a thrilling creature-feature steeped in Meso-American mythology, and "Little Fangs Horror Story," a unique dramedy exploring the impact of horror movies on Junior High School students. His versatility shines through in "The Gateway," a docu-series delving into the cultural significance of horror cinema. Known for his naturalistic directing style and adeptness across various genres, Adrian's work has garnered accolades, including awards for his short film "T-Minus" and its inclusion in the anthology feature "The Impact" (2022). As a member of Canada Cinema Editors, Alberta Post Production Association, and Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers, Adrian continues to push creative boundaries while emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling and character-driven narratives. Whether you're a filmmaker, horror enthusiast, or simply intrigued by the art of visual storytelling, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into Adrian's journey and his impact on the film industry. You can check out Adrian's work at www.adriandelapena.com.

We're excited to bring you an exclusive interview with Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein, the brilliant writers behind Pixar's Inside Out 2. Recorded at the Austin Film Festival, we talk with Meg and Dave about their creative process, the Pixar writing style, and how they crafted the heart and humor that brings Inside Out 2 to life. Perfect for fans of Pixar and anyone curious about screenwriting! If you want screenwriting tips and film industry insights this is the place!

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with the creative minds behind I'll Be There—director Andrew Shea, writer Cindy McCreery, and talented actors Ryan Cooper and Victoria Kelleher. As the film prepares for its release on November 15th, we dive into the heart of this emotional drama, exploring the storytelling process, the challenges of bringing complex characters to life, and what audiences can expect from this deeply moving film. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of I'll Be There and hear firsthand from the team about the themes of love, loss, and second chances that drive the story. Don't miss this inside scoop before the film opens!

Join us as we sit down with the talented director behind Dragonfly, an emotional short film that delves into the complexities of memory, family, and love. We discuss the inspiration behind the story, the unique approach to its creation, and the challenges of bringing this heartfelt vision to life. Don't miss this insightful conversation about one of the year's most thought-provoking short films.

In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed filmmaker Jane Spencer to discuss her latest project, South of Hope Street. Jane shares her inspiration for the film, the challenges she faced during production, and her vision for storytelling that resonates with audiences. Jane offers invaluable insights into the filmmaking process. Whether you're a film enthusiast or aspiring filmmaker, this conversation is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Tune in!

In this episode, we sit down with Salvador Litvak, the creative mind behind Guns and Moses. Salvador shares insights into his creative process, the inspirations behind his latest film, and how he tackles themes of community, morality, and the human spirit. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion with a filmmaker who's unafraid to challenge conventions.