Filmmaker Mixer

Award-winning editor Michael P. Shawver (known for his work on Black Panther and Creed) joins us to discuss his latest project, Sinners. In this episode, we dive deep into the craft of film editing—how pacing shapes suspense, how choices in rhythm and structure build tension, and what it takes to bring a director's vision to life in the editing room. Shawver reveals behind-the-scenes insights on working with raw footage, sculpting character arcs, and finding emotional truth in the cut.Whether you're a filmmaker, editor, or movie fan, you'll walk away with a new appreciation for the invisible art of editing—and how it transforms Sinners into a gripping cinematic experience.

Composer and producer Trevor Hoffmann (CASMA nominee, Lego Friends, Deepa & Anoop, Nurture: Doki's Delivery) joins us to talk about crafting emotion through sound. From the playful worlds of kids' animation to the immersive landscapes of interactive media, Trevor shares how he blends classical orchestration with modern pop textures to create unforgettable musical storytelling. We dive into his creative process, the art of scoring for characters and gameplay, and what it means to compose music that truly connects.#TrevorHoffmann #GameComposer #AnimationMusic #FilmScoring #CASMA #VideoGameMusic #ComposerLife #Podcast #BehindTheScore #MusicProduction #SoundtrackMagic #FilmmakerMixer

In this episode, we dive into the unbelievable true story of Martin McNally, the man who hijacked an American Airlines plane in 1972 in a bid to emulate the legendary DB Cooper. What followed was a five-day nationwide manhunt, full of twists, misdirection, and audacious criminal daring. We chat with filmmakers Eli Kooris and Joshua Shaffer who bring this story to life in their film American Skyjacker. We discuss the making of the documentary adaptation of the Top 20 Apple Podcast American Skyjacker, exploring how filmmakers reconstruct historical crime, track elusive characters, and uncover the lesser-known details that make this story one of the wildest in true crime history. If you're fascinated by audacious heists, sky-high suspense, and real-life mysteries, this episode is for you. 

In this episode we sit down with casting maestro Susanne Scheel, the force behind the stellar ensemble of Kathryn Bigelow's political thriller A House of Dynamite. From assembling a global cast to discovering unexpected breakout talent, Susanne opens up about the unseen art of casting for high-stakes filmmaking. We explore how she navigates script, director vision, star power and surprise actors — and how that all comes together to shape the story we see on screen. If you've ever wondered what it takes to cast a film of this scale — or how a casting director thinks — this is the conversation you don't want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with writer-director GG Hawkins to unpack her bold new feature I Really Love My Husband. What happens when the honeymoon phase fades, when our desires shift, when perfection can feel suffocating? GG takes us through conception, casting, shooting in Panama, balancing improvisation and script, and what she hopes audiences will take away. She also shares personal reflections about love, settling, creative risk, and what it means to follow your gut in art and relationships.

In this episode, we chat with director Rachel Israel and producer Shai Korman about their compelling new film The Floaters. The story follows struggling musician Nomi, who takes a last-resort job mentoring the misfit campers at her childhood Jewish summer camp — a place filled with nostalgia, chaos and the chance to reconnect.

Join us for a lively and inspiring conversation with Ryan Cooper (producer) and Josh Flanagan (director) about the mockumentary comedy Pickleheads — the world's first feature-film dive into the booming sport of pickleball. We explore: how the idea was born, what drew them to the quirky and fast-growing pickleball scene, the challenges of making a sport-based mockumentary, casting surprises, movie-making secrets, and what this film says about community, competition, and creativity. If you're a filmmaker, sport-enthusiast, or simply love behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is for you.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with filmmaker Ellen Rodnianski, director of American Baby, a moving and unflinching story about a young girl facing pregnancy, judgment, and isolation in small-town Texas. Ellen opens up about the film's deeply human themes — from teenage motherhood to the silent struggles young women face when their world turns upside down.

In this episode, we sit down with writer-director Spencer King to unpack his tense new thriller The Wilderness, produced by Aaron Paul and Amy Berg and starring Hunter Doohan (Netflix's Wednesday) and Lamar Johnson (The Last of Us). Set against the stark Utah desert, The Wilderness follows a group of teenage boys forced into a manipulative “wilderness therapy” program—where survival means more than just making it out alive.

In this episode, we dive into Miles Away, a heartfelt indie drama exploring identity, love, and second chances. Acclaimed actor Andre Royo (The Wire) joins director and lead actress Jackie Quinones to discuss crafting authentic emotion on screen, the film's powerful journey from page to premiere, and what it means to truly find yourself when you feel “miles away” from home.

In this episode, we sit down with Austin-based filmmaker Kelly Lipscomb, whose new documentary Bite to Bite makes its World Premiere at the Austin Film Festival. The film follows a single giant Bluefin tuna from the icy Atlantic waters of Nova Scotia to Tokyo's legendary Tsukiji Market — tracing a story of tradition, survival, and the global seafood economy. We explore how this cinematic odyssey reveals the human cost of overfishing, the future of sustainability, and why the fate of one fish can reflect the state of our oceans.

In this episode, we sit down with director Salvador Espinosa and writer/actress Tato Alexander to talk about their sharp, emotional, and uncomfortably relatable new film Don't Know How To Be. The story centers on Majo and Cris—a thirty-something couple whose birthday celebration at his parents' home turns into a full-blown generational showdown. What starts as a hopeful day spirals into a chaotic engagement party that forces everyone to confront love, expectations, and the illusions that hold families together.

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Gans, the filmmaker behind VOICES, an intimate and powerful exploration of his father Danny Gans' extraordinary life and untimely passing. Part personal journey, part tribute, VOICES uncovers the story of a man who rose from underdog beginnings to national acclaim, and the son who finds himself through rediscovering his father's legacy.

In this episode, we sit down with Austin-based filmmakers Nick and Josh Holden, the writing-directing-producing duo behind their new feature film about family, integrity, and the fine line between selling out and staying true.Their film follows novelist Benny Dink, whose career and love life implode just before his 40th birthday. When he returns home to Louisiana for his sister's wedding, he's forced to confront the compromises of adulthood — from ambition and art to family and faith.

In this episode, we sit down with Ironheart director Angela Barnes and cinematographer Alison Kelly to talk about the visual power and emotional depth behind Marvel's highly anticipated series. From crafting the look of Riri Williams' world to balancing high-tech action with human connection, they share how they built a superhero story grounded in authenticity and innovation.Discover the creative collaboration that shaped the next generation of the Marvel Universe—and the lessons every filmmaker can take from their process.

Two powerful short films. Two unforgettable visions. We sit down with the creator of The Stand and Little Bird to explore the art, the heart, and the meaning behind the stories. From quiet resilience to bold defiance, these shorts show how even the smallest moments can carry the biggest weight.

Before social media, there were forums. Before viral TikToks, there were inside jokes on message boards. The Last Mixtape tells the story of White Collar Rhymes (WCR) — nine rappers from across the world who bonded online in the early 2000s, creating beats, rhymes, and community long before “internet rap” was a thing.20 years later, these strangers turned collaborators finally came together to record in person, balancing day jobs with a lifelong passion for hip-hop. Director David Birdsall takes us behind the scenes of this unforgettable story of creativity, friendship, and chasing the dream.

Festival director Vanessa Bailey pulls back the curtain on one of the most vibrant festivals for storytellers — the Richmond International Screenwriting and Film Festival. We talk programming, the writer-first approach, and how this festival connects talent from across the globe.

Mike Zara joins the podcast to discuss his upcoming film Horrified, with Ron Perlman attached. Currently in preproduction, Zara reveals how the project came together, what inspired its eerie premise, and what it's like getting a genre icon on board. 

With 235 million views since its Netflix debut, KPop Demon Hunters has become the streamer's most popular film of all time. At the heart of its global success is the groundbreaking sound design crafted by Michael Babcock — Sound Designer, Supervising Sound Editor, and Re-recording Mixer. Michael shares how he infused the polished, high-energy world of K-pop into the film's sonic landscape, blending layered vocals, reverb, and beats with organic sound elements tuned to the rhythm of the action. From the playful “Soda Pop” street performance to the bathhouse battle and stadium finale, Michael takes us inside the soundscapes that brought this animated sensation to life.

Join the Filmmaker Mixer as we sit down with sibling filmmakers Scout and Max Purdy to explore their heartfelt coming-of-age feature, Pilgrim. With a sharp micro-budget of just $5,000, Scout and Max, along with their father, Doug, crafted a poignant narrative about a 15-year-old named Joe who embarks on a coastal hike after her mother's death — confronting grief, family bonds, and personal growth along the way. Discover how the father-daughter duo of Doug and Scout Purdy wrote, directed, produced—and even acted—themselves, blending guerilla filmmaking with family storytelling amid breathtaking locations. Tune in for a candid and inspiring conversation about making bold indie films through collaboration and resourcefulness.

Director Nico Ballesteros was just 18 when he found himself inside Kanye West's inner circle, camera in hand. Over six years and more than 3,000 hours of footage later, he created In Whose Name? — a raw, unflinching chronicle of genius, chaos, fame, and self-destruction. In this episode, Nico discusses trust, access, and what it means to capture the private life of one of the most scrutinized figures in music. Joining in the conversation are Nico's collaborators Shy Ranje, Jack Russell and Justin Staple.

What does it take to visually capture the essence of a Latin Grammy-winning superstar like Karol G? In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with acclaimed cinematographer Mecky Creus — whose eye behind the camera helped shape the stunning Netflix documentary Karol G: Mañana Será Bonito (Tomorrow Was Beautiful).Mecky shares how he crafted intimate and cinematic visuals that balance the glamor of global stardom with raw emotional honesty. We talk about lensing vulnerability, collaborating with directors and artists, and building a visual language that reflects the power and behind the music.Whether you're a DP, documentarian, or just a fan of Karol G, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really means to see the story behind the sound

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we chat with Charlene Akuamoah, the visionary costume designer behind Netflix's new series Bet, a bold live-action adaptation of the manga Kakegurui. Charlene breaks down her process—from custom tartans and exaggerated silhouettes to the high-fashion gala looks that push the show's visual storytelling into overdrive.Discover how she used fashion to signify hierarchy, rebellion, and power, and how anime influenced her bold choices. Whether you're a fan of costume design, manga adaptations, or the drama of elite boarding school politics, this episode is for you.

Join us on the Filmmaker Mixer Podcast for a deep dive into the mind-bending thriller Cognitive! We sit down with lead actress Rachel Fleischer, the legendary Charles Fleischer, and visionary director Evan Richards to uncover the story, the madness behind making it, and what it takes to craft a film that bends time itself. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more filmmaker insights, interviews, and podcast episodes from the world of cinema

In this episode we speak with award-winning costume designer Leslie Kavanagh, the creative force behind the unforgettable looks in The Handmaid's Tale. From June's symbolic wardrobe evolution to the pastel subversion of New Bethlehem, Leslie walks us through how costume design has deepened the show's storytelling in its most recent season. We explore the meaning behind Serena and Naomi's looks, the surprising use of navy on Nick, and the boundary-pushing style of the Jezebels. Whether you're a fan of the show or passionate about visual storytelling, this episode is a deep dive into how clothes can carry power, resistance, and transformation.

As Yellowstone rides off into its final season and Landman and 1923 leave their mark, we're going behind the scenes with the man who helped define the look of Taylor Sheridan's TV universe—Tim Muir.A hairstylist-turned-Hair Department Head, Tim has worked alongside Sheridan for over 15 years, bringing unforgettable character looks to life in Wind River, Yellowstone, 1923, and Landman. In this episode, Tim reveals how he crafts hairstyles that tell stories, how he maintains continuity in six-month shoots that span just ten days on screen, and how he keeps stars like Demi Moore and Helen Mirren camera-ready in Texas heat and high drama.Plus, Tim shares his favorite looks, how he collaborates with actors and directors, and what it's really like designing hair on set with redacted scripts and creative freedom.

On this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with cinematographer Ryan Thomas, the director of photography behind the new film I Really Love My Husband. Ryan takes us inside his process—crafting intimate visuals, balancing raw emotion with stylized frames, and using the camera to heighten both the tenderness and the tension of the story. We dive into his influences, collaboration with the director, and the creative challenges that brought this layered film to life.

On this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with acclaimed production designer Toni Barton, whose latest project, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, reimagines the gritty glamour of 1970s Atlanta. Barton walks us through the process of recreating a city that still lives in the memory of many locals—working against time, budget, and historical accuracy to bring over 30 sets to life across four soundstages and multiple real-world locations.We dive into how Barton used color storytelling to mirror character arcs, the architectural magic behind the Hyatt Regency's iconic penthouse suite, and the haunting authenticity of the Dolphin Club. From civil rights-era echoes to design under pressure, this is a masterclass in immersive world-building.

What does it take to turn a deeply personal idea into a visually compelling indie film? In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Nicola Rose—a writer and director whose unique path has taken her from stage to screen, blending whimsical visuals with authentic emotion.We explore her creative process, how she works with young casts, the art of visual storytelling, and what it really takes to bring fresh perspectives to coming-of-age stories. Whether you're developing your first short or preparing for a festival premiere, Nicola offers honest, practical advice on staying true to your voice while navigating the realities of indie filmmaking.

Step inside the world of Pat McGee, frontman of the Pat McGee Band. From selling CDs out of his car to sharing the stage with legends like The Who and James Taylor, Pat opens up about the inspiration behind his music, the grind of life on the road, and the heartfelt story behind his song Come Back Home. Hear how he balances family with a 25-year music career—and what still drives him to create after all these years.

In this episode, we sit down with John Edward Betancourt, the award-winning screenwriter and Editor-in-Chief of Nerds That Geek. John shares his journey from crafting screenplays to leading a pop culture platform that celebrates fandoms across the spectrum. We delve into his insights on the evolution of geek culture, and his passion for storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or new to the scene, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the intersections of media, fandom, and creativity. 

In this episode, we sit down with producer Joseph Restaino to talk about What We Hide, a gripping new film that dives into the lives of two sisters who make an unthinkable choice after their mother's fatal overdose. Fearing the foster system will separate them, they hide the body—but their lie threatens to unravel, forcing them to confront how far they'll go to protect one another.Joseph shares what drew him to the project, the challenges of producing such an emotionally charged story, and how the film balances suspense with heartbreaking humanity.Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at a story of survival, sisterhood, and the secrets we carry.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of production design with Olga Devuyst, the creative force behind the visual storytelling of F Mary Kill. Olga shares her journey in shaping the film's unique aesthetic, blending elements of satire, suspense, and modern dating culture. Discover how she collaborated with director Laura Murphy to create a setting that mirrors the film's themes of digital-age romance and true crime intrigue. From the use of digital overlays to the strategic design of intimate spaces, Olga provides insights into the decisions that brought the film's world to life

What happens when a rebellious tooth fairy teams up with a cuddly troll and a brilliant goblin scientist? You get A Tooth Fairy Tale — an imaginative adventure where unlikely heroes must save their magical worlds from menacing spiders.We sit down with co-writer Richard Dane Scott to talk about crafting this whimsical story, building a fantasy universe that balances humor and heart, and why magical tales still capture the imagination of audiences young and old.

Journey into the heart of Middle-earth's music with composer Stephen Gallagher and Grammy-winning score mixer Mark Willsher. In this episode, we explore their collaboration on the 2024 anime film The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim. Discover how they created powerful new compositions, the challenges of blending traditional and modern instruments, and the process of bringing the world of Rohan to life through sound. Whether you're a Tolkien enthusiast or a film music aficionado, this conversation offers a unique glimpse into the art of cinematic scoring.

What if a discovery hidden within our DNA could change everything we thought we knew about ourselves?On this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with writer-director Stephen Portland to discuss his mind-bending new film Universal—a sci-fi thriller grounded in very real genetic science. The film follows Leo and Naomi, a British academic couple spending a romantic weekend in a remote cabin. But when a mysterious woman appears claiming to have found a secret code embedded in the so-called “junk” DNA, their quiet getaway turns into a night of revelations, arguments, and moral dilemmas that could shake the foundations of humanity.We talk with Portland about the genesis of the story, the scientific theories that inspired the script, crafting a contained yet high-stakes narrative, and why great sci-fi always begins with character.

In this episode of the Filmmaker Mixer Podcast, we're honored to be joined by award-winning filmmaker and physicist Mark Levinson (Particle Fever, The Bit Player) to discuss his latest film, The Universe in a Grain of Sand. A cinematic meditation on how we perceive and interpret the world, the film explores the interplay between science and art—from quantum computing to avant-garde cinema. Levinson invites us on a thought-provoking journey that connects scientific discovery with artistic exploration, revealing how both disciplines strive to make sense of nature's most profound mysteries. We talk about the merging of abstract thought and visual storytelling, the challenge of making the invisible visible, and Levinson's unique path from particle physics to powerful filmmaking.

Join us as we sit down with director Evan Matthews to explore the making of his provocative new feature, Motherland. Set in a chilling dystopian world where the state raises children and personal choice is forbidden, Motherland asks: what does it truly mean to be a parent? Evan shares his journey—from daring sci-fi shorts to guiding powerful performances, navigating indie challenges, and collaborating with his exceptional cast. Whether you're a film buff, a parent, or passionate about storytelling, this candid chat touches on themes of autonomy, love, rebellion—and the creative grit that fuels it all.

In this episode of the Filmmaker Mixer Podcast, we sit down with directors Ryan Hartsell and Scott Berman to discuss their visionary project, Resolution: A Cinephonic Rhapsody for the Soul, a cinematic journey that fuses music and storytelling in collaboration with The Polyphonic Spree. Set to the band's album Salvage Enterprise, the film is a sensory and emotional experience that explores themes of resilience, renewal, and transformation. Hartsell and Berman walk us through how this genre-blurring piece came to life—from the deep integration of sound and visuals to the creative risks of pushing cinematic form into something more immersive and soulful.

On this episode of the Filmmaker Mixer Podcast, we're joined by Nick Johnson the director of Sunburnt Unicorn, a visually arresting coming-of-age fantasy set in a surreal, unforgiving desert. The story follows an injured teenager who, in order to survive and save his father from the clutches of the mysterious Cactus King, assumes the persona of a mythical unicorn. Blending symbolism, magical realism, and raw emotional stakes, Sunburnt Unicorn is a bold journey through identity, imagination, and transformation. We talk with the director about building this unique desert mythology, the film's rich visual style, and what it takes to make a genre-defying indie in a world of cinematic conventions.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with award-winning editor Wax Taber, the creative force behind PBS's The Class, which premiered at SXSW EDU. Wax edited four of the six episodes and served as the finishing editor for the entire docuseries.The Class follows six high school seniors from Deer Valley High School in Antioch, California, as they navigate the college application process during the COVID-19 pandemic—supported by the relentless guidance of their advisor, Mr. Cam. It's a deeply human story of resilience, community, and the American education system.Wax brings more than just her editorial expertise to this story—her personal journey from homelessness in NYC to becoming a successful editor on projects for Netflix, Disney, CNN, and more, adds a powerful layer to the conversation. A proud alum of the EOP/EDP program, Wax shares how that experience shaped her voice, her career, and her commitment to mentorship in the film and TV industry.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with screenwriter and producer Suzanne Weinert, the creative force behind the gripping new crime drama The 8th Day, starring Darren Mann (from Taylor Sheridan's 1923) and Phoebe Tonkin (The Originals, Babylon). The film is now available in select theaters and on VOD.Set in a gritty small Texas town, The 8th Day tells the intertwined story of two small-time criminals, a mysterious elderly woman with a hidden past, and a young woman desperate for a way out—each drawn to a local check-cashing store overflowing with cash and secrets.Suzanne Weinert discusses her journey from idea to finished film and her powerful collaboration with director Alexandra Chando. This behind-the-scenes conversation dives deep into storytelling, character development, and what it takes to bring a layered indie crime film to life.Don't miss this inside look at an indie gem making waves on the festival circuit and beyond.

In this episode of the Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with director George Ellzey Jr. to discuss his poignant new drama Cottage Grove. George shares how the film navigates themes of identity, perception, and emotional vulnerability within a deceptively simple setup. We talk about his creative influences, how the film was shaped in the edit, and what it's like bringing subtle, character-driven stories to life in the indie space.Whether you're a filmmaker, a fan of quiet tension, or just love a good conversation about storytelling craft—this one's for you.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with actor Mickey O'Sullivan to talk about his latest film, Room Six—a chilling psychological thriller that unfolds in a remote motel, where secrets, paranoia, and family tensions run deep. Known for his intense performances in Chicago P.D. and The Chi, Mickey dives into the making of Room Six, how he approached the complex character of "Red," and why he's drawn to roles that keep both him—and the audience—on edge.We explore the challenges of indie filmmaking, the creative partnership behind the camera, and what it takes to truly embody a character caught between fear and survival.

Award-winning director Pete Chatmon joins the Filmmaker Mixer to talk about building a career behind the camera with style, vision, and purpose. Known for his work on hit series like The Flight Attendant, Insecure, Silicon Valley and Yellowjackets, Pete has directed over 65 episodes of television across comedy and drama. He shares insights into balancing tone, elevating scripts, and finding longevity in an ever-changing industry.We also dive into his indie roots with Premium starring Zoe Saldana.Whether you're a filmmaker, a TV junkie, or someone chasing a creative life, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom from one of TV's most versatile directors.

Award-winning editor Richard Overall joins Filmmaker Mixer to discuss his work on the BAFTA-nominated animated feature Kensuke's Kingdom. Richard shares insights into shaping the film's breathtaking 2D animation, collaborating with voice talents like Cillian Murphy and Sally Hawkins, and balancing adventure with heartfelt emotion. We also dive into his career in animation, from editing The Amazing World of Gumball to directing voice performances on Elliott from Earth. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the art of animation editing and Richard's journey through storytelling.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with director and screenwriter Kat Gueli and actress Catharine Daddario to talk about their new film The Tributaries. The film traces the intersecting paths of characters navigating sorrow, memory, and the elusive hope of healing. Kat shares her vision behind the screenplay and how she approached the film's layered narrative. Catharine gives insight into her performance, character development, and what drew her to the project. Together, they open up about the creative collaboration that brought The Tributaries to life, from indie challenges to breakthroughs on set.Whether you're a filmmaker, actor, or film enthusiast, this episode dives deep into story structure, directing actors, and building characters with emotional truth.The Tributaries will premiere at Dances With Films.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with Zach Green and Devin O'Rourke, the creative minds behind the indie sci-fi comedy Foil. They share their journey from conceptualizing the story to premiering at the Dances with Films Festival and securing distribution with Cranked Up Films. Discover the challenges and strategies involved in bringing an independent film to audiences, and gain insights into the evolving landscape of indie film distribution.

In this powerful episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we speak with Cameron S. Mitchell and David T. Mitchell, the filmmakers behind Disposable Humanity, which premiered at Slamdance.The film follows a family as they uncover the haunting legacy of the Nazi Aktion T4 program — a state-sanctioned campaign that murdered over 300,000 disabled people and laid the ideological groundwork for the Holocaust. We discuss the ethical responsibility of representing disability and trauma on screen, the family's journey through suppressed history, and how Disposable Humanity reclaims voices lost to erasure and genocide.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with Crystal Grooms Mangano, the accomplished music supervisor behind the Netflix series The Madness. With a career that bridges the worlds of music and film, Crystal shares insights into what it takes to shape a show's emotional tone through music, the art of choosing the perfect song, and how she collaborates with directors, editors, and composers to create unforgettable sonic moments.We dive deep into her latest project, The Madness, a fast-paced thriller starring Colman Domingo, and explore how she crafted its edgy, layered soundscape. Whether you're a filmmaker curious about music licensing or a composer looking to understand what music supervisors actually look for, this is a must-listen episode.