FilmSEEN Podcast

In this episode, we sit down in-person with producer and film finance expert Scott DuPont out in Los Angeles. I first discovered Scott through the documentary MOVIE MONEY CONFIDENTIAL (directed by Rick Pamplin) , and he also runs a great podcast called Finance Your Movie. He's raised millions of dollars for indie films and has been in the game for a long time...but what really stands out is how practical and down-to-earth his approach is. We talk about how he raised a million bucks for his first feature back in the '90s, what it was like meeting a major investor while doing background work on THE WATERBOY, and why trying to attach actors before you have money in the bank is almost always a waste of time. Scott breaks down the psychology of raising money, how to build trust with investors, what really goes into a legit business plan, and how to tap into your network without being awkward about it. He also shares insights about his work with Quentin Tarantino and Burt Reynolds, talks about why most filmmakers fail to pick up the phone, and explains what he calls “asymmetrical risk/reward” basically, how to offer big upside while protecting your downside. It's all super real and super helpful. If you're serious about getting your movie made, this episode's gonna give you a ton to think about — and a real strategy to actually move forward. Hosted by Zef Cota

Louise Levison is the undisputed queen of indie film business plans—and in this episode, she breaks down how to actually raise money for your movie. Best known for crafting the business plan that launched The Blair Witch Project, Louise has helped independent filmmakers secure financing for decades. We talk about what investors really care about, how to position your project for success, and the biggest mistakes first-time filmmakers make when chasing funds. Whether you're planning your first feature or looking to level up your producing game, this episode is packed with gold.

Throwback episode -- originally recorded for GlobeScreen in 2023: Dante Spinotti is both a member of the ASC (American Society of Cinematographers) and the AIC (Association of Italian Cinematographers). In a recent conversation from LA, he spoke to us about his distinguished career as a cinematographer. He recalled how Dino Di Laurentiis helped start his career in the US on Michael Mann's 1986 film ‘Manhunter'. Later in the discussion he shared many on-set stories working with Mann on four additional films 1992's Last of the Mohicans, 1995's Heat, 1999's The Insider and 2009's Public Enemies. He also talked about shooting 1997's LA: Confidential for Curtis Hanson. Dante also offered his views on shooting film versus digital. GlobeScreen Podcasts would like to thank Murtha Skouras Agency, for arranging this episode.   Hosted by Zef Cota

On this episode of The Film Situation, host Zef Cota sits down with Julian Biba—a filmmaker, producer, novelist, and director of the NY True Venture Film Festival—to discuss his unconventional journey into filmmaking. From his early days as a bodyguard to finding himself at the Cannes Film Festival with his first short film, Julian shares how his real-life experiences have shaped his storytelling across film, literature, and festival programming. Plus, Julian and Zef break down two of his favorite movie scenes: THE BOURNE IDENTITY (2002) & Tony Scott's MAN ON FIRE (2004). @julianbiba Hosted by Zef Cota

In this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with acclaimed Stanley Kubrick biographers Nathan Abrams and Robert P. Kolker, co-authors of KUBRICK: AN ODYSSEY, to explore the genius of one of cinema's most enigmatic directors. From the Bronx to London, Stanley Kubrick's legacy continues to fascinate and influence filmmakers and cinephiles alike. We dive deep into his obsessive attention to detail, behind-the-scenes stories from his most iconic films, and what made him such a singular force in cinema history. Hosted by Zef Cota

On this episode of The Film Situation, I sit down with documentary filmmakers JoeBill Muñoz and Lucas Guilkey to discuss their powerful PBS documentary THE STRIKE. The film tells the gripping story of a historic 30,000-person hunger strike inside California's prison system—an act of mass resistance that exposed the brutal reality of long-term solitary confinement. We dive into how JoeBill and Lucas first met, the years-long process of making the film, and the incredible resilience of the men who organized the strike. They also share the challenges of visually telling a story set largely within prison walls, their influences, and the emotional impact of screening THE STRIKE inside San Quentin. This conversation sheds light on a major but largely overlooked moment in U.S. history—one that changed lives and reformed the prison system. THE STRIKE premieres on PBS, bringing this urgent story to audiences across the country. Tune in to hear how the film came together and why it's essential viewing.  Follow the film at thestrikefilm.com and on Instagram @thestrikefilm

On this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with gaffer-turned-DP Tom Chaves to discuss his 15-year journey in the industry, the challenges of transitioning from lighting to camera, and the harsh realities of being pigeonholed in the film business. Tom shares insights on AI's growing impact on cinematography, the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking, and his own experiences working on everything from music videos to micro-budget features to high-end commercial gigs. We also dive into his deep love for cinema and discuss scenes from the Brazilian film CITY OF GOD and Tony Kaye's AMERICAN HISTORY X. Hosted by Zef Cota

Discussion between Jon Difilippo & Zef Cota about the 2025 Academy Award nominated films. Warning there may be spoilers!

In this special emergency episode of THE FILM SITUATION, we pay tribute to the life and work of legendary filmmaker David Lynch, who has profoundly influenced the world of cinema. David Lynch's films, from BLUE VELVET to TWIN PEAKS, have captivated audiences with their unique blend of surrealism, haunting visuals, and complex storytelling. In this episode, we reflect on his unmatched contributions to film and explore the lasting impact of his art and philosophy. Zef Cota co-hosts with Alex Gray, and guest Heather Buckley who share their experiences and thoughts on Lynch's work, his philosophy, and his influence on their own lives and careers. His quote, “Keep your eye on the donut and not the hole,” is just one example of his ability to inspire and provoke thought about life, creativity, and the human experience. Join us as we honor a true visionary in cinema, offering our heartfelt condolences and celebrating the indelible mark he's left on the world.

In this episode we sit down with acclaimed costume designer Catherine Marie Thomas to explore her storied career. Known for her work on iconic films like KILL BILL, GREY GARDENS, THE PROPOSAL, and the Netflix hit LEAVE THE WORLD BEHIND, Catherine shares fascinating insights into the art of costume design. From her unconventional start at Juilliard to collaborating with legendary directors like Quentin Tarantino and Robert Altman, Catherine discusses her creative process, memorable projects, and the challenges of designing for both film and television. We also dive into two of her favorite movie scenes: the unforgettable showdown from KILL BILL, featuring Uma Thurman, and a key moment from THE SUBSTANCE, starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley. Episode hosted by Zef Cota, with co-host Laura Popovic.

In this episode, Zef Cota welcomes acclaimed filmmaker Bill Fishman, director of the cult classic TAPE HEADS and numerous iconic music videos for bands like the Ramones and Counting Crows. Bill dives into the making of his latest project, WALTZING WITH BRANDO, a fascinating biopic starring Billy Zane as the legendary Marlon Brando. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tahiti, the film explores Brando's ambitious dream to build an eco-friendly resort on a remote island, based on the memoir of architect Bernard Judge. Bill shares insights into casting Billy Zane, the creative process behind capturing Brando's essence, and how Zane's nuanced portrayal balances authenticity and grounded performance without falling into imitation. The conversation also touches on the film's exploration of Brando's disillusionment with Hollywood, his quest for personal freedom, and the challenges of bringing this larger-than-life story to the screen. Plus, hear a bit about John Heder's role in the film (and how to correctly pronounce his name). Listen in for an inspiring look at storytelling, creative collaboration, and reimagining the legends of cinema. Hosted by Zef Cota

In this episode we sit down with the multifaceted Claire McKey Berkman to discuss her dynamic career spanning TV, theater, film, and web content. From her beginnings in creative writing and theater at Pitzer College to working in tv and film production in Los Angeles, Claire has embraced every aspect of storytelling. After moving to London to earn her MFA in Advanced Theatre Practice at the prestigious Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, she pushed the boundaries of her craft by writing and producing an immersive musical. Claire shares insights into the power of collaboration, the intersection of music and narrative, and the unique challenges of creating across multiple mediums. Whether you're a filmmaker, actor, or creative dreamer, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for embracing a multidisciplinary approach to your craft. We also discuss some of her favorite movie scenes, from WICKED (2024) to SHAUN OF THE DEAD (2004). Hosted by Zef Cota

In this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with NYC based cinematographer Matthew Canada to explore his unique journey from studying jazz theory at a music conservatory to crafting breathtaking visuals for narrative films and cinematic commercials. Matthew shares how his diverse life experiences, including earning a degree in marketing, have shaped his artistic approach to cinematography, where art and science seamlessly merge. We dive into his early days filming music videos in New York City, his passion for narrative storytelling, and how he uses framing, lighting, and subtext to enhance story and character. Matthew also opens up about the collaborative nature of filmmaking, discussing his work with directors, production designers, and actors, and how he balances meticulous technical preparation with on-the-spot creative instincts. To wrap things up, we delve into some of Matthew's favorite movie scenes, including Martin Scorsese's iconic GOODFELLAS and Todd Phillips' gripping THE JOKER, unpacking what makes them so visually and emotionally impactful. Hosted by Zef Cota

In this episode of The Film Situation, Zef Cota chats with Emmet Loverde, a multi-talented writer, director, and producer whose work spans stage, screen, radio, and beyond. With over 200 productions of his stage plays mounted worldwide, Emmet shares his insights into crafting stories that captivate audiences across mediums. From his feature films like SHE'S OUT OF HIS MIND and BEAUTY, BRAINS, AND PERSONALITY to his acclaimed radio adaptations of THE MOON MAID and THE KILLIST, Emmet's creative output is nothing short of prolific. We'll also discuss his latest project, the upcoming horror film WITHOUT A NAME, as well as his experiences as an associate producer on Sony Pictures' DALLY AND SPANKY. Join us for an inspiring conversation with a true storyteller who knows how to entertain, enlighten, and engage audiences everywhere.

Joshua Holz is a filmmaker based in New York. He has directed and edited films featured in MovieMaker Magazine's Top 50 Festivals, W.W. Norton & Company, Interview Magazine, and has worked on films and productions worldwide. His graduate film thesis, Another Night (2023) was awarded the Made in NY Grant. He developed his feature script Vera about his great-grandmother for script labs and pre-production in Texas.

In this episode, we're joined by George Beno, a New York-based film producer whose impressive credits include co-producing Josh Mond's IT DOESN'T MATTER, starring Christopher Abbott and Jay Will, which premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, and Rachel Wolther's THE FRENCH ITALIAN, featured at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival. Beyond producing, George brings a wealth of experience in location management, having worked on major productions like JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX (2024) and INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR (2023). We dive into some of George's favorite film moments, including Gaspar Noé's CLIMAX (2018), David Fincher's GONE GIRL (2014), and Danny Boyle's SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE (2008), exploring what makes these scenes unforgettable. Hosted by Zef Cota

Kent Sanderson is the President of Bleecker Street Media. Recently, they've released films such as RUMOURS (2024) with Cate Blanchett, SASQUATCH SUNSET (2024) with Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough, and TREASURE (2024) with Lena Dunham and Stephen Fry.  Kent also served as Executive Producer on other Bleecker releases, including THE ART OF SELF-DEFENSE (2019), starring Jesse Eisenberg and Alessandro Nivola, as well as the upcoming Mike Leigh film HARD TRUTHS, which premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and the 2024 New York Film Festival. We discussed the world of independent cinema and the business of filmmaking, along with Bleecker Street's latest releases, the evolving landscape of film distribution, and what it takes to create a lasting impact through independent film. Kent also shares his insights on two of his favorite movie scenes, one from SUPERMAN (1978) and another from CONTACT (1997), offering a glimpse into what he believes makes cinematic moments truly memorable.  Hosted by Zef Cota

In this episode, Zef sits down with Bobby Perretti, founder of Wheelhouse Films and an emerging filmmaker who began his journey studying screenwriting at Johns Hopkins University where he made his debut short film, The Cyclist. With experience as a director's assistant, script doctor, writer, and coordinator for NYC's Directors' Collective workshop, Bobby shares insights into his work in film. Together, Zef and Bobby dive into the artistry of two cinematic classics: Carol Reed's 1949 British noir THE THIRD MAN and Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece VERTIGO.  Originally recorded for FilmSEEN in June 2020. Hosted by Zef Cota  

In this episode of The Film Situation, Zef Cota sits down with the multi-talented Tracy James Terry, an award-winning playwright, actor, and musician turned screenwriter and producer. Tracy shares her journey from theater to film, recounting how her successful stage play led her to the world of screenwriting and eventually to founding her own film company. With wit and insight, she discusses the challenges of adapting her play for the screen, the cinematic and literary influences that shaped her work, and her upcoming film project, ÉIRE WE GO, a comedy about the hilarious misadventures of Americans in Ireland. The conversation also dives into Tracy's love for Hitchcock's DIAL M FOR MURDER and Spielberg's JAWS, along with a discussion of IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, covering the storytelling techniques, character dynamics, and cinematic innovations that make these classics unforgettable. Join us for an inspiring talk on pushing creative boundaries, the art of adaptation, and manifesting your vision in film.

Director and legendary stuntman Art Camacho. Known for his work on action-packed films, Art shares insights into his latest release, RUTHLESS (2023), a gripping revenge thriller starring Dermot Mulroney. Zef and Art also dive into his upcoming project, featuring iconic actors Harvey Keitel and Danny Trejo. With decades of experience in the industry, Art discusses the art of blending high-octane action with compelling storytelling, while reflecting on his journey from stunt coordination to directing. It's a must-listen for action film enthusiasts and aspiring filmmakers alike! * Hosted by Zef Cota

Jonathan Yunger's has produced iconic action franchises and has worked on more than sixty films at Millennium, including THE EXPENDABLES franchise, OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN, LONDON HAS FALLEN, JOLT, THE HITMAN'S BODYGUARD, and MECHANIC: RESURRECTION.  He's also produced films such as TESLA, starring Ethan Hawke, which premiered at Sundance in 2020, and THE OUTPOST, featuring Scott Eastwood and Orlando Bloom, in which Yunger also had a supporting role and was nominated as a part of the 2021 Top Ten Independent Films by the National Board of Review. Aside from being a film executive and prolific producer, Jonathan is also an actor and a true raconteur. It was great hearing his stories about how he persevered in the business, overcoming the odds. We also discussed two of his favorite films, FORREST GUMP (1994) and THE FABELMANS (2022). Hosted by Zef Cota

Original FilmSeen Throwback from 2021.

Originally recorded in NYC - March 2020 Harri "Indio" Ramkishun is a Bronx born and raised filmmaker, director of photography, and producer. He is the owner/operator of GuyaRican Productions LLC (GRP). Indio also freelances as a live sports camera operator. Indio wrote, produced, and directed "BlackOUT City" (2011), a short film about a couple evaluating their relationship during the northeast blackout of 2003. He has also worked on multiple short/feature projects in various roles. In 2015, Indio was the Director of Photography on the series, Knockout, which aired on NuvoTV. The boxing competition show included Roy Jones Jr., "Sugar" Shane Mosley, and Floyd Mayweather Sr. The series was filmed at Foxwoods Casino in Connecticut and directed by Benny Boom. Hosted by Zef Cota

In this episode of The Film Situation Podcast, we sit down with the incredibly talented Byron Werner, a seasoned cinematographer known for his work on the 2023 feature film SPINNING GOLD, as well as music videos for top artists such as Weezer, Coldplay, and Lil Wayne. Byron shares his journey from making short films in grade school to becoming a sought-after Director of Photography in Hollywood. Byron discusses the creative process behind SPINNING GOLD, a biopic about Neil Bogart, the founder of Casablanca Records. He delves into the unique visual style of the film, which blends modern techniques with a nostalgic 1970s flair. We also explore his extensive work on music videos, where he brings a dynamic and innovative approach to the screen, and how his early passion for filmmaking has fueled a diverse and successful career. We also talk about Byron's approach to cinematography, and his thoughts on the challenges and rewards of working in both the film and music video industries. Then we discussed two of his favorite movie scenes from Steven Spielberg's JURASSIC PARK (1993), and Michael Mann's HEAT (1995). Hosted by Zef Cota

According to a summary of his IMDB page: Zachary Treitz is known for Men Go to Battle (2015), We're Leaving (2011) and Frances Ha (2012). Awards. 4 wins & 4 nominations. However, In NYC he's known as so much for than that. He recently made a film (2024 Netflix release: The Octopus Murders). We discussed this project and his filmmaking approach. ** Episode 036 w/ Zachary Treitz on The Film Situation Hosted by Zef Cota ***  

Alex & Trevor used to host one of my favorite podcasts which was called 'No-Budget Filmmaking'.  We discussed everything from the emergence of A.I. in moviemaking, to their past work with the late Larry King on his series 'Larry King Now'.  Then of course we talked about some of their favorite movie scenes from AMERICAN PSYCHO, CHILDREN OF MEN,  JURRASIC PARK, & REQUIEM FOR A DREAM.  Trevor L. Nelson: @TrevorLNelson Alex Darke: https://filmmakingcentral.com/ Hosted by Zef Cota

Hilary Duncanson is an actor known for MR HARRIGAN's PHONE (2022), TALES OF A SCORPIO SINGER, and HOMICIDE FOR THE HOLIDAYS. We talk about filmmaking, working as a background actor, and some of his favorite movies including THE WIZARD OF OZ & 5 EASY PIECES.  

Recorded the week following the Academy Awards with Jon Difilippo from Almigos Podcast.   Hosted by Zef Cota

Dan Kennedy & Caroline Keene directed a nice heartfelt indie film called MERRY GOOD ENOUGH. It's a comedy about a dysfunctional family whose mom disappears on Christmas Eve, and the lengths one daughter must go to bring her family back together again.  At once funny, intense and hopeful, MGE is led by the indelible Raye Levine and Joel Murray, and features a stand-out ensemble cast that includes Susan Gallagher, Comfort Clinton, Sawyer Spielberg, Daniel Desmarais, Neil Casey, Sophie von Haselberg, Margaret Curry, Kevin O. Peterson and Marcia DeBonis.  https://www.merrygoodenough.com/ Hosted by Zef Cota  

Xochi grew up in the movie business with parents who were well known in the industry. In 1987, she joined the business working with the assistant directors. In 1991, she joined the DGA and has worked on such films as (TERMINATOR 2, DEMOLITION MAN, & LETHAL WEAPON 4) and tv show primarily as a 1st AD. She has a documentary feature in the works called RED DOG & BATES.  Throwback episode - first recorded in August of 2020 Hosted by Zef Cota

Filmmaker John Manna joins the podcast for a 2023 recap of the movie industry and to discuss various films that were released last year. Hosted by Zef Cota Produced by Andy Price Post Production by Theodora Harrington 

Amos Poe is an American New York City-based director and screenwriter, described by The New York Times as a "pioneering indie filmmaker". Amos Poe is one of the first punk filmmakers and his film The Blank Generation[2] (1976)—co-directed with Ivan Král— is one of the earliest punk films. The film features performances by Richard Hell, Talking Heads, Television, Patti Smith, and Wayne County. Rolling Stone named it number 6 on its list of 25 Greatest Punk Rock Movies of All Time.[3] He is also associated with the birth of No Wave Cinema due to films such as The Foreigner (1978), featuring Eric Mitchell, Debbie Harry, Anya Phillips; and Subway Riders (1981),[4] starring Susan Tyrrell, Robbie Coltrane, and Cookie Mueller.[5] During this time he was also the director of the public-access television cable TV show TV Party hosted by Glenn O'Brien and Chris Stein. Hosted by Zef Cota

Tone Tank is a Brooklyn based actor and street artist that has been featured in such films as JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH (2021), THE BIRTHDAY CAKE (2021), and NEWLYWEEDS (2013).    

Zef Cota speaks with Dara Naficy of GlobeScreen about the various films that played at 61st annual New York Film Festival.

LA based Director of Photography. Movies and TV including Die Hart 2, Blue Mountain State, Kroll Show, and Ultrasound. www.mrudenberg.com @rudenberg_dp

Born in New Orleans, LA and raised in Bakersfield, CA, Nicholas Maggio now lives in Los Angeles. His directorial debut, MOB LAND (2023) starring John Travolta, Shiloh Fernandez, Ashley Benson, Stephen Dorff, & Kevin Dillon, is a homage to the classic American Neo-Noir genre. We discussed the making of his debut feature film, the DIY nature of making indie movies, hardcore music, and then discussed two of his all time favorites the John Hughs classic THE BREAKFAST CLUB and Andrew Dominik's THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD. Check out MOB LAND released by Lions Gate - streaming now on Digital and On Demand. Also, Available on Blu-ray and DVD. Follow along with Nicholas Maggio at www.nicholasmaggio.com and on INSTAGRAM @nicholasmaggio.

Jessica Sherr is an award-winning Actress/Writer/Producer. Jessica appears on 'Claws' (TNT), 'Cloak and Dagger' (ABC FreeForm) and on 'Blue Bloods'(CBS). Jessica produced and stars in the award-winning series, Scratch This. Jessica's dark comedy short, WICKED IMAGE, screened at Lighthouse Film Festival 2021.  Jessica is the actress and writer of the acclaimed one-woman show, 'Bette Davis Aint For Sissies' directed by Drama Desk Award Winning Karen Carpenter. She had her international debut at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival and was offered a run at St. James Theater in London. https://www.jessicasherr.com/ IG: @jessica_sherr Hosted by Zef Cota    

Luke Bryant is a UK based cinematographer who DP'd THE LAST KINGDOM: SEVEN KINGS MUST DIE (2023), THE LAIR (2022), BUDDY GAMES (2019) as well as series such as Dr. Who, Grace, and Ramash. IG: @lukebryantdop website: https://www.lukebryant.co.uk/ Hosted by Zef Cota

Erick Freitas is union location scout and has worked on such films THE WOLF OF WALL STREET, HUSTLERS, and THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY amongst many others. Derick jones comic book artist currently living in Chicago. He's worked for z2, boom! and Idw and has been self publishing his latest batch of books! They teamed up to create a comic book called Urges.   On this episode of the Film Situation podcast they joined to discuss comics, movies, the impact of the movie FIGHT CLUB and John Carpenter's THE THING. * Derick Jones @skudsink on instagram and on twitter. Erick Freitas @ecfreits on instagram.   Here is a link to support their comic Urges: http://kck.st/3nYgHB8 link to the kickstarter  * Hosted by Zef Cota

Acclaimed filmmaker Ondi Timoner and founder of Interloper Films– who's known for her documentaries 2004's DIG, which won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance the year and has been selected  by the Museum of Modern Art for their permanent collection – the 2009 film WE LIVE IN PUBLIC which also won the Grand Jury prize at Sundance the year it came out. Also for the films MAPLETHORPE, BRAND: A SECOND COMING, 2022's LAST FLIGHT HOME and her recent film THE NEW AMERICANS: GAMING A REVOLUTION which premiered at SXSW. 

Schuyler (“Sky”) M. Moore is a partner in the corporate entertainment department of Greenberg Glusker LLP, practicing entertainment, corporate, and tax law. Sky has been practicing in the entertainment industry since 1981, represents producers, sales agents, foreign distributors and financiers, and has handled some of the largest financing transactions in Hollywood. He is Chair of Stroock's Entertainment Practice Group. Sky is the author of 'The Biz', currently in its 5th edition - a popular book on the film industry, and the treatise, Taxation of the Entertainment Industry. He is a mainstay on Hollywood Reporter's “Power Lawyers” list of the top 100 entertainment lawyers in the country. He is consistently listed as one of the top entertainment lawyers by Variety and was recently recognized in the publication's annual “Dealmakers Impact Report.” The Daily Journal honored Sky as one of its Top 100 Lawyers in California, and The National Law Journal named him to its list of “Most Influential Lawyers.”

Christina Richardson is an award-winning filmmaker whose storytelling abilities have captivated the hearts of many. Based in NYC by way of Los Angeles, California, Christina got her start as a child actress and eventually began screenwriting, directing, and editing, contributing to projects for major artists, corporations, and large brands. Christina is the Founder of the New York-based not-for-profit organization Bronx Film Initiative, Inc, and is also qualified by the Directors Guild of America as a 1st AD.   Hosted by Zef Cota

David Permut is a film producer who's worked on dozens of acclaimed and commercially successful films with over 40 years of experience in the motion picture industry. He's received both Academy and Emmy Award nominations including HACKSAW RIDGE (2016) and FACE/OFF (1997).  Hosted by Zef Cota  

Jonah Schwartz is a New York based director and cinematographer. He's directed a prolific amount of music videos for hip hop artists in both America and Japan.  Jonah also spent many years living in Japan, where he began working with popular brands and artists. Jonah has worked with such artists as Prodigy (Mobb Deep), Freddy Gibbs, A$AP Mob,  as well as The Black Keys amongst many more.  He was also the cinematographer for the 2015 indie feature film, HONOR UP, directed by Damon Dash. Most recently Jonah directed the short film, THE DARK AGE, which is currently available on streaming platforms worldwide.  Hosted by Zef Cota

Tom DiCillo is an American film director, screenwriter known for such films as JOHNNY SUEDE (1991) starring Brad Pitt & Catherine Keener, LIVING IN OBLIVION (1995) with Steve Buscemi also starring Catherine Keener, BOX OF MOONLIGHT (1996) with John Turturro and Sam Rockwell, & DELIRIOUS (2006) starring Steve Buscemi and Michael Pitt.  He also made the acclaimed documentary WHEN YOU'RE STRANGE (2009) about The Doors which like several of his other films have premiered at Sundance. Hosted by Zef Cota  

Severine Reisp is a filmmaker based in New York City. Her short films have won awards such as Best Romance Film at Los Angeles Film Awards, Best Women Filmmaker at Atman Film Festival, and the Cinematic Award at Cyprus Film Festival. Severine grew up in Germany with a background as a ballet dancer and later moved to NY where attended Sarah Lawrence College, and went on to pursue her MFA in Film from the City College of New York.  Since then, she has directed multiple award-winning short films and music videos. She recently directed and produced a 17 min short film, “Deceive,” starring Dandara Veiga, principal with Ballet Hispanico, and shot by Emmy award-winning Wolfgang Held where it played at a number of film festivals. We discussed two of her favorite film scenes from LA LA LAND (2016), and THE FABLEMAN'S (2022). Hosted by Zef Cota

Ben Myers is an award-winning director, writer, and actor, whose work has premiered at Austin Film Festival, Catalyst Story Institute, and whose writing has been recognized by the Sundance Episode Labs. His films The Vanity (2017), Power Out (2018), and A Lone Star Love (2021) have screened at film festivals internationally, and as a producer he has worked with brands like The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, and RTE.    Hosted by Zef Cota

Recap of Sundance 2023 w/Mattie Johnson + throwback episode with Rashaad Ernesto Green.

Vincent De Paula, CSC is an award winning cinematographer based between Los Angeles and Vancouver. Originally from Spain, Vincent moved to London where he first learned the craft and worked on documentaries as well as narrative projects. Vincent is the cinematographer of the Netflix series 'Firefly Lane' starring  Katherine Heigl and Sarah Chalke, the upcoming season of D.C.'s The Flash, as well as such feature films like 2 HEARTS and THE WILL. Hosted by Zef Cota  

Some info about 2023 Sundance Film Festival and also a throwback episode from 2020 featuring Heather Buckley and Jenn Wexler that made the horror film, THE RANGER.

Roman Molino Dunn is an award-winning composer who divides his time between LA & NYC. His background as a Billboard-charting music producer and co-owner of audio post production facility, Mirrortone Studios, gives him a unique approach and philosophy for his film scoring. We discussed his prolific career working on such films as SNAKEHEAD, AI LOVE YOU (Thailand), and Paul Schrader's THE CARD COUNTER as well as some of his cinematic sensibilities. Hosted by Zef Cota