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Director Will Niava's film, JAZZ INFERNAL (2025), is showing on July 23rd at the Future of Film Showcase in Toronto. If you're reading this before the date and can go, what are you waiting for? Buy tickets!It's that incredible, one of the best films I've seen all year. It won a Short Film Jury Award at Sundance last year and very deservedly so. Will is an Ivorian-Ghanaian film director and screenwriter based in Montreal, Quebec. And think about that sentence for a moment: there's few like it in the English language that conjures up that many cultural influences in 13 words. And the best way to describe Will's films is that he brings all of those together into pure artistry.If the interview feels short, blame me. The Future of Film press person asked, will 20 minutes be fine, and I stupidly said yes and regretted the decision fifteen seconds into the interview.On your next film, Will, I won't make that mistake again, trust me.In this episode, Will and I talk about:how he describes his award-winning Sundance film;its evolution from a lighthearted comedy to a love letter for his father;if the prestigious awards it earned changes his mind about making a short;how he got started in filmmaking;the concept of taste versus talent;what's next for him.Will's Indie Film/Filmmaker Highlight: PARADISE (2025) dir. by Jérémy Comte; MY FATHER'S SHADOW (2025) dir. by Akinola Davies Jr; Harley Francis; Zion Saffer; Samuel CaronMemorable Quotes:"[My wife told me] you have to talk about your grief. And my grief felt personal."" This is what a short film has done for me, so I can never recommend against it."Links:Follow Will On InstagramBuy Tickets For JAZZ INFERNAL at The Future Of Film Showcase

My guest, Hazel McKibbin, directs films that make top festivals. She edits films that make top festivals. And she makes commercials for brands at the Met Gala. And yet:Here's Hazel taking on a project about masculinity called LAST MAN UP (2026). Last episode, I praised writer and actor Robert R. Palmer for offering Hazel the opportunity to direct his project, so she deserves equal credit for taking it on. I could see a lesser director -- a lesser person -- saying no, but as she talks about in the episode, she saw it as an opportunity to expand her skillset.To say I wish there were more directors like Hazel is a bit of a non-descriptive statement: of course. What I mean by that is let's celebrate risk takers who leave their comfort zone of the material they are used to and take on somebody's project, or do something different.And if you're as talented as Hazel is, it'll work out beautifully.Hazel and I talk about:how she describes the film;why she decided to take on a story like this with a background in films "with a feminist lens";the reaction of other people when she took on this project;her entry into filmmaking and if starting out as an editor helps;the conversations she has with a director as an editor and vice versa now that she's directed several films;the increase in projects she's directed that were written by actors;what her wishes are for short films;why film school and why Columbia?her amazing Sundance experience;what's next for her.Hazel's Indie Film/Filmmaker Highlight: AU HASARD BALTHAZAR (1966) dir. by Robert Bresson; Joanna HoggMemorable Quotes:"It's a story about what it means to be the man of the house."" If you just leave it to an editor, and they fix it before they give it to you, I feel like you're missing an opportunity to to learn as a director.""I think actors as writers, they are so good at dialogue."" One of the things that especially I tell my students, [short films are] unity of time, place, and action."" Between commercials and narrative, there's not a lot of crossover."" I submitted it because you submit your first film to Sundance, you just do."Links:Follow Hazel On InstagramWatch DOUBLESPEAK (2021)

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: LEFT-HANDED GIRL (2025)Director: Shih-Ching TsouWriters: Shih-Ching Tsou; Sean BakerStars: Janel Tsai; Shih-Yuan Ma; Nina YeSYNOPSISAfter a single mother and her two daughters return to Taipei to start anew, their fragile family dynamic is tested by debt and a dying patriarch. But when the traditional grandfather strictly forbids the youngest, left-handed granddaughter from using her 'devil hand,' generations of deep-seated family secrets begin to unravel.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

This is a director's podcast, but the truth is I don't talk with enough actors on here about the struggle they face in indie film. It offers a different lens on how difficult it is to get things made. That's why I'm so happy to be joined by Robert R. Palmer, actor/writer in the film LAST MAN UP (2026), which premiered at the Palm Springs International ShortFest.When we talked about the plight of actors, and I went through the ways especially an LA-based person had to get ahead -- influencing; writing your own script for a great role; other social media activities -- the difficult challenge for actors right now is getting ahead....by actually acting!So Robert did something creative: he wrote a project that he could star in and then reached out to an ultra-talented director named Hazel McKibbin. (I'll talk to Hazel next episode.) It's both a show of humility and genius, and I cannot wait for you to hear his story.Robert and I talk about:how he describes the film;what it's like writing a role that you know -- as an actor -- you'll play;taking a story about masculinity and pitching it to a director who sees things through a feminist lens;how he got involved in filmmaking and how he wrote this project to get to the level of work he wanted to be at;what life is like as a young actor in LA;working with the director for the film and what he wishes directors knew about the acting life;what's next for him and why you should hire him for your next project.Memorable Quotes:"It's a tragedy, but a fun tragedy."On masculinity and feminism: " they're two sides of the same coin";"I'm an actor, first and foremost."" Being a young actor in LA, it's a grind. It's a hustle.""Actors want to be left alone."Links:Follow Robert On Instagram

Director Daniel Bogran made a film that could be spoiled with just a few words and it would change the entire dynamic of how you watch it. So I'm not going to do that. But the "how" behind him filming THE KILLING MOON ("A wealthy couple's lake vacation takes a sinister, seductive turn when an attractive stranger shows up wounded at their door") is definitely worth a conversation. It had its international premiere at Raindance in London this year.So is his short film LOW (2019), now streaming on YouTube. You'll see a few familiar actors on LOW, and how he was able to keep his crew together for over 6 years is certainly something we talk about.New Orleans, tropes in films like this, we talk about it all with Daniel for the pod.In this episode, Daniel and I discuss:how to prevent spoilers for a film with a big twist and the process of writing it;how he got into filmmaking through editing -- and New Orleans;what was the best way to stay in touch with a team as he moved from different projects seven years apart;how he stuck with this film even when producers wanted to put in other directors;are producers that blunt about taking a writer off their project?why Raindance and the social media plan for the film;thoughts on release strategy after a viral YouTube hit;the stereotypes of New Orleans;turning tropes on their head in a film and using misdirection;what the reaction to his film has been.Daniel's Indie Film Highlight: FALCON LAKE (2022) dir. by Charlotte Le BonMemorable Quotes:"[Editing] is something that's ... completely unique to filmmaking. Every other part of filmmaking comes from something else."" I think a lot of it is just developing almost like a secondhand language."" I personally like cliches and tropes because they are very potent. They have a lot of power in them and a lot of expectation that's built into them."Links:Follow THE KILLING MOON On Instagram

How many Gen Z filmmakers say, nah, the story I'm feeling is a middle aged undocumented Chinese immigrant cook worried about survival in America. And it's 23 minutes long. You'll hear in almost every professional film course or, ahem, podcast, short films are hard to make or make your film shorter for festivals. And that advice is right, of course.It's great advice. But it doesn't even begin to speak to what makes art and a singular vision special, and for my guest today, Taiwanese-American filmmaker Benny Chen, his vision is HAND (2026), which premiered at the Cleveland International Film Festival this year, and I'm here for it.Here for what's great about filmmakers like Benny. Understand the advice, and then if your vision calls for it, break it. It's the only way we got somewhere closer to the Holy Grail of independent filmmaking: authenticity. And that alone is the advice that can never be sacrificed.In this episode, Benny and I discuss:what it was like seeing HAND in a theater -- props to the Cleveland International Film Festival;his journey from Taiwan to filmmaking;what he means by finding the balance between Eastern and Western cinema;if he feels HAND connects the two and how he describes the film;the run time of 23 minutes;casting middle aged people as a young filmmaker;the benefits of making a short film for his team;what's next for him and what does being a Taiwanese-American filmmaker mean to him.Benny's Indie Film Highlight: WE WERE HERE (2026) dir. by Pranav BhasinLinks:Follow Benny On Instagram

Watch This Episode On YouTubeHappy third anniversary to the pod and I'm so happy to be spending it with Irish filmmaker -- and award-winning ad maker -- Gar O'Rourke.When people ask about the podcast, the usual first question is, what are your favorite episodes? And I respond with, well, they are all my favorites.It's true. I wouldn't publish something if I wasn't proud of it, and mainly because of audio or other host-related failures, there's been a handful you'll never get to hear.But it's also a bit of a dodge because I know what they are asking and of course I have favorite episodes. I can tell it as soon as we stop recording, and I'm guessing you can tell it, too. The anniversary episode always gets one of those.Gar's latest film, THE SIEGE OF PARADISE (2026) had its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, and knowingly reaches for a higher form of filmmaking. A lesser director would have taken the subject of Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera and made it into something mocking influencers and tourists in favor of the aphoristic locals.Gar is one of the best directors in independent film, so we don't have that problem here. What he gives you is a measured, gorgeously shot take on what it means to live in a place like Cinque Terre, either as a tourist or a local; it's a deeply moving film.It's screening in Galway soon for its Irish debut -- check it out if you can there -- or just look for Gar at a festival near you. Whether it's him or another Irish filmmaker, I promise it's the best way to spend your time.In this episode, Gar and I talk about:do Irish people want to hang around other Irish people at film festivals?!;his start in filmmaking;how his brand work (after we recorded this, his ad won a Grand Prix at Cannes Lions 2026) influences his filmmaking;THE SIEGE OF PARADISE;if he knew going in he would take such a balanced approach to the relationship between tourism and locals;if he screened the film for its subjects;what a documentary filmmaker owes his subjects;the absolute stunning shots in this film and where they came from (no drone footage!);what does Screen Ireland do right that other countries could follow (other than more funding);how he knows it's going to be a good festival experience -- or not;what's next for him.Memorable Quotes:" Irish people are the best people to hang out with at film festivals, or most dangerous people to hang out with at film festivals.""THE SIEGE OF PARADISE is like a holiday fever dream."" My life is probably the worst example to follow if you want to be a filmmaker."" I always had this helicopter intro that I wanted to do with the mayor."" In Ireland, it begins with the attitude around film. It begins with the attitude around this is something valuable."" Success in a European mind is...prestige or it's getting a great festival life. It doesn't need to have as much commercial and profit incentive."Links:Follow Gar On InstagramWatch THE PUB THAT REFUSED TO DIE Second Anniversary Pod: Nathaniel Lezra

Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: PAYING FOR IT (2024)Director: Sook-Yin LeeStory by: Chester BrownStars: Emily Lê; Andrea Werhun; Dan BeirneSYNOPSISWhen an introverted cartoonist's girlfriend wants to redefine their relationship, he begins sleeping with sex workers and discovers a new kind of intimacy in the process.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

I love Minnesota; in fact, on June 29th, there I'll be, beside one of its 10,000 lakes, ready for America's 250th birthday. (It's the best place to spend the Fourth.)It's also a great place for filmmaking so I talk about that with deputy director of Explore Minnesota Film, Nell Lawrenz-Wareham. This was recorded at the beginning of the month so apologies about any confusion about application deadlines.I am quite certain if we support filmmaking in Minnesota, they'll be back around this time next year.In this episode, Nell and I talk about:how she got involved in film and became deputy director of Explore Minnesota Film;why Explore Minnesota Film transferred from a nonprofit to its current incarnation and what that means for other state film organizations;the pitch for filming in Minnesota;what might surprise you about filming in Minnesota;the 30 year anniversary of FARGO (1996), which was filmed in Minnesota;the biggest challenges facing Minnesota's fim commission right now;what festivals and project markets stand out for her;the wide range of incentives available to you in Minnesota;the 10,000 Stories Fund;what she hopes she can talk about regarding Explore Minnesota Film in the future.Nell's Indie Film/Filmmaker Highlight: ISH MEETS A MERMAID (2025), dir. by Jonathan Thunder; Abby HarriMemorable Quotes:" Most of our permits are free. We can get back to you on an application in under 30 days. We have $92 million in a tax credit pool waiting for you."" And this is also a place where artists can afford to live and stay."Links:Follow Explore Minnesota On InstagramExplore Minnesota Film WebsiteThe 10,000 Stories Fund

I conclude Tribeca special coverage with one of my favorite films at the festival, CAITY (2026). To say Lindsay Calleran has been through some things to get her debut feature made is underselling it by a lot. Please read this First Person IndieWire article that Lindsay wrote; it gives a lot of important background to her story and how CAITY came to be.I'm so impressed by so many different things: the resiliency she showed in both losing her father and getting this film made; the journey to sobriety; having the guts to put it all out there for the world to see.Mostly, though, I'm impressed she made an absolute banger of a coming-of-age film. It has amazingly unique cinematography and an ending that you won't predict. It leaves you wanting to know more (and then feeling a little heartbroken after). That's great filmmaking.Lindsay and I discuss:the combination of a birthday, Tribeca premiere, and Father's Day when your debut feature is fictionalized version of your relationship with your father;how much real life influenced the final film;how she got into filmmaking;the unique touches of cinematography in this film;the incredible actors playing Caity and her father in this film, and somehow finding the chemistry between them;if casting directors are underrated in indie films;the EP/producer relationships for this film and the unique grant that made this film happen;why we don't see more films like this in festivals and theaters;what's next for her.Lindsay's Indie Film Highlight: LONG'S LONG LOST & MINI MART (2025) dir. by Julian DoanLinks:Follow Lindsay On Instagram

The Tribeca Film Festival helped organize this tremendous in-person panel with two New York filmmakers: Lily Weisberg, dir of RARE BIRDS (2026) and Maria Sofia Hernandez, dir of LA LUCHA DE LUCÍA (2026).Recorded on June 9th at Spring Studios, we talk about their incredible films; the challenges of writing different types of characters; what BACKROOMS (2026) and OBSESSION (2025) mean for independent filmmakers; and more.In this episode, we talk about:the creation stories of LA LUCHA DE LUCIA and RARE BIRDS;casting for the films and the role of social media;how she was able to achieve such well-drawn out characters in RARE BIRDS and her advice for other filmmakers;the challenges of writing both males and female characters;what does a bad short film look like?why Tribeca for their films?what to do with their films now after a premiere at Tribeca (shout out to NoBudge!);BACKROOMS and OBSESSION -- what does that mean for independent filmmakers?how her experience as a director helps her as an actor;what's next for them.Lily's Indie Film Highlight: CAITY (2026), dir. by Lindsay CalleranMaria's Indie Film Highlight: DADDY'S LITTLE MEATBALL (2026), dir. by Yael GrunseitLinks:Follow Maria On InstagramFollow Soonest Mended Productions, Lily's Production Company, On InstagramFollow LA LUCHA DE LUCÍA On InstagramMODERN SILENT SHORTS (Check out the tour this summer!)

If you're going to make a film about surfing in Senegal, I assume the viewer expects beautiful shots of surfing and the landscape of Dakar, Senegal's capital city. And man, does my guest, filmmaker and director, David Clancy, of NIO KO BOKK or THIS BELONGS TO ALL OF US (2026) deliver.The film is a valentine to so many things: refugees, Senegal, surfing, and documentary filmmaking itself. David's story of creating the film relies so much on his exciting background, and it was a such a joy to hear about it from his spot now in the Canary Islands.In this episode, David and I talk about:why is he now in the Canary Islands and his wild career story;how did this film come into existence;when do documentaries require great cinematography?his path focusing on social impact films and whether that's repeatable for other documentary filmmakers;the requirements for social media as a documentary filmmaker and his advice to getting started;the prism of surfing and refugees for THIS BELONGS TO ALL OF US;the logistical challenges of making a surfing film;why Tribeca?;how do we see more films like this in theaters;what's next for him.David's Indie Filmmaker Highlight: Jigar GanatraLinks:Follow David On InstagramFollow David On YouTube

Watch This Episode On YouTubeWatch STRAIGHT TO HELL On Criterion ChannelEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: STRAIGHT TO HELL (1987)Director: Alex CoxWriters: Dick Rude; Alex CoxStars: Joe Strummer; Dick Rude; Courtney LoveSYNOPSISThree bank robbers (Sy Richardson, Joe Strummer, Dick Rude) and a pregnant woman tear up a desert town.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

What a last month or so for Haiti and director Elisee Junior St. Preux's debut feature. Upon its release at the Tribeca Film Festival, THE TROPIC SUN AND HIS EYES (2026) received the Special Jury Mention for Best New Narrative Director alongside rave reviews. It is truly stunning filmmaking, offering both a realistic glimpse of Haiti and an expansive view of fatherhood.Let's count the ways in which his month just aligns perfectly for this film: Haiti playing Brazil in its second World Cup today (there's special screenings of this film in Atlanta); Father's Day in the United States; and all of the plaudits received at its world premiere at Tribeca.We only get more Haitian film directors at top festivals if people like Elisee care about elevating other voices, and he does that, too. Have a month, Elisee; I'm here for it.In this conversation, Elisee and I discuss:the vibe of the film and how he made Haiti essentially a character in the film;why the topic of fatherhood for his first feature;his emphasis on shooting in Haiti and the challenge of others trying to take away his deeply personal story;the creation of what is now SOIL Pictures and how he focuses on uplifting Black voices;"labs are very specific about what they want to get across" -- such important advice about going into a lab or a fellowship;why Tribeca?what's next for this electric filmmaker.Elisee's Indie Film Highlights: MY FATHER'S SHADOW (2025) dir. by Akinola Davies, Jr; I LOVE BOOSTERS (2026) dir. by Boots RileyLinks:Follow Elisee On InstagramElisee's Website

Watch This Episode On YouTubeVIA NEGATIVA resonated with me on so many different levels -- as a Catholic; as someone who uses firearms; as a veteran (there's a moment in there, if you've seen it); and most importantly, a lover of truly astonishing filmmaking. Director Hannah Peterson achieved something extraordinary with this film by bringing a novel to life in the best possible way and making you think of life's grand questions without pandering.The film's log line: "It follows the story of Father Dan who goes on a mythic road trip with a wounded coyote, a loaded pistol, and a mission to avenge his best friend."If there's justice in this world, this film will be up for numerous awards come that season, but as VIA NEGATIVA shows us, that concept is something that's hard to find.This is brilliant filmmaking and I am so excited to follow Hannah's journey and the roll-out of this film. After hearing this episode, I hope you are, too.In this episode, Hannah and I talk about:how she got involved in filmmaking;the long process of getting VIA NEGATIVA made and what went into its debut;what her thought process is going into her second premiere at Tribeca;the process of adapting a book for film and working with the author on making the film;how much attention should be paid to accurately depicting a religion;the weapon handling in this film and her advice for other directors;distribution for the film;what's next for her.Hannah's Indie Film Highlight: Antigravity AcademyLinks:Follow Hannah On Instagram

It's one thing to say you're going to create the "Chinese lesbian version of BEFORE SUNRISE (1995)"; it's another thing to actually pull it off.In EPHEMERA (2026), the debut feature for filmmaker Shan Jiang which premiered at the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival, it appears she has done just that. It took global producers, a fantastic team, and a truly extraordinary story in how she found the actors, but the film will stand as wide shoulders for so many people and so many future projects.In this episode, we talk about:how she describes EPHEMERA and whether "unhurried" is an adjective she likes to describe the film;the incredible story of how she got involved in filmmaking;her storytelling philosophy, which has been described as " inhabit[ing] familiar narrative tropes and bends them from within to allow new perspectives to emerge" (an amazing quote);the global producers that made EPHEMERA and the concept of China as an entity reacting to a lesbian-focused film; what she took away from this experience for her next feature;finding the incredible actors in this film;what she learned from rehearsals with the actors in a film that is very dependent on them;her direction philosophy in this film and what she views as her job in regarding to structure;why Tribeca ("it's coming home for this film") and the Chinese film festival market;what's next for her.Shan Jiang's Indie Filmmaker Highlight: Celine Sciamma; Peter GreenwayLinks:Follow Shan JiangFollow EPHEMERA On Instagram

MON TAXI (2026), which premiered at the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival, is a "love letter to the filmmaker's dad." Architect + filmmaker Meriem Sakrouhi created a film that is part New York, part Moroccan, and altogether touching cinema, and we talk about how she did it for the podcast.Along with directing, she edited and produced the first Moroccan entry at Tribeca in 20 years. Given that she pitched a project at Cannes Docs this year and beautifully describes what Moroccan influence looks like, we shouldn't have to wait that long for another.In this episode, Meriem and I discuss:why Tribeca for this particular film;growing up in Morocco and how she got involved in filmmaking;how architecture informs her filmmaking;how she describes MON TAXI and what she wants viewers to feel -- "the film is about communication about my dad after he passed";editing, producing, shooting the film -- how did she make it all work?what is the Moroccan influence on the film?what's next for her and what she pitched at Cannes Docs.Meriem's Indie Film Highlight: BOUCHRA (2025) dir. by Orian Barki; Meriem BennaniLinks:Follow Meriem On InstagramMON TAXI Website

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: LURKER (2025)Director: Alex RussellWriter: Alex RussellStars: Théodore Pellerin; Archie Madekwe; Havana Rose Liu;SYNOPSISA retail employee infiltrates the inner circle of an artist on the verge of stardom. As he gets closer to the budding music star, access and proximity become a matter of life and death.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

The career path -- M.S. in Neuroscience to filmmaking -- is a wholly original one and so is his filmmaking. His second feature, PONDEROSA (2026), is a comedy-horror film that looks at American masculinity in a way I've never seen before. It is a gift to watch -- beginning to end -- not because I understood everything going on, but because I didn't.The best type of filmmaking should challenge you and make you think differently about the world around you. Mission accomplished here by Rob, with brilliant actors by his side. I'm texting my friend with a neuroscience degree, telling him to get on over to Tribeca and make a film!In this episode, Rob and I talk about:going from CRISPR engineer to filmmaking;how PONDEROSA came about and the trickiness of describing the film;what his experiences at prominent film festivals taught him;how he got some of the best actors out there -- Bill Camp; Alexis Bledel -- to work on his film;how he did the score and music FIRST and then edited accordingly;how he balances directing and producing;what's next for him.Rob's Indie Film Highlight: THE MISCONCEIVED (2026) dir. by James N. Kienitz WilkinsLinks:Follow Rob On Instagram

Very rarely, you'll watch a documentary, and think...how did he get that all on film? That was the case for me and the film MOUTH FULL OF GOLDS (2026) premiering this week at the Tribeca Film Festival. It's about "grillz" -- the teeth attachments/implants and their cultural connection in New York City, Miami, Atlanta, and Paris.If that description sounds incredible, that's because the film is incredible. Director Lyle Lindgren joins for me the pod and traces his history from car salesman to his first film festival here in New York City.Grillz or not, you'll want to be on this ride.In this episode, Lyle and I talk about:the insular community of "grillz" and how he was able to make this film;how did he get into filmmaking -- it's an absolutely crazy story ("I always thought I'd be a car salesman");what his previous films taught him about making MOUTH FULL OF GOLDS;his many jobs on this set -- what jobs did he like the most and least?how they casted for this film and their philosophy for re-enactments;why Tribeca and what New York City means to him;how he approaches going to the festival as a producer versus coming from a working class background to his first film festival!;what's next for him.Indie Artist Highlight: Pouria KhojastehpayLinks:Follow Lyle On InstagramMONOMANIA Production Company

The journey from Yugoslavia to New York City is a wild one, and filmmaker Branislav Jankic has been a keen observer along the way. Coming off a debut feature that was released at the height of COVID, Branislav is now at the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival with a story about his wife called WHITE BELT (2026). The film traces the journey of supermodel Monika "Jac" Jagaciak from the runway to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It's a tight, accomplished film that shows what he's learned about the process, and it was so cool for him to explain how he made such an exciting and personal film.In this episode, Branislav and I discuss:the tight runtime for this film and how he was able to condense so much into the film;how he got involved in filmmaking -- going from Yugoslavia, Germany, all the way to Tribeca;why he's able to tackle topics like " addiction, fetishism, and the complexities of identity";his debut feature, THE WITCH'S CAULDRON (2020), and what he learned from it;what WHITE BELT is about, in his words;why he didn't mention himself in the film and his advice for filming when you're married to the subject;why Tribeca and what's next for him.Links:Follow Monika On Instagram

Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: OUT OF LOVE (2025)Director: Nathan AmbrosioniWriter: Nathan AmbrosioniStars: Camille Cottin; Monia Chokri; Juliette ArmanetSYNOPSISA woman is forced to take care of her niece and nephew after their mother voluntarily disappears.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

The podcast concludes this unreal Cannes Film Festival series with Lightdox founder and CEO, Anne Berthollet. Lightdox has consistently championed stunning documentaries, like GABIN (2026); FLOPHOUSE (2025) and so much more. How is the company able to find such amazing documentaries? What happens when Lightdox grows -- will they be able to maintain their quality offerings? And what is her advice for aspiring documentarians?See you next year, Cannes!In this episode, Anna and I discuss:why she founded Lightdox;her slate at Cannes and why Lightdox chose these particular films;the process in selecting her films and what she is looking for;their sales and distribution strategy in the current market;is there a redline for films and sales where Lightdox *won't* go?whether she'll be able to maintain the high quality of Lightdox's slate as the company expands;how she feels about true crime docudramas in the documentary space;how documentary filmmakers are surviving right now;what it's like being at Cannes as a Swiss film company;what's next for Lightdox.Links:Follow Lightdox on InstagramLightdox

I'd argue the Pierre Angénieux Tribute is the best thing going at the Cannes Film Festival. Why? Two reasons:they elevate one filmmaker -- this year, it was Japanese cinematographer Akiko Ashizawa -- by way of tribute. If you haven't seen her work, now is your opportunity. But they don't stop there.they utilize the platform of that tribute to give a "special encouragement" to a young cinematographer. This year, it was my guest, Nguyễn Phan Linh Đan, who combines Vietnamese and French cultures to offer a new and fresh perspective on storytelling.Listen to both conversations and tell me this isn't truly amazing what Angénieux is doing at Cannes. May there be 100 more companies that follow their lead.In this episode, we talk about:the press release indicated that she "belongs to a new generation of Vietnamese filmmakers who seek to redefine the contours of a national cinema" -- what do those words mean to her?how she got involved in filmmaking and decide to be a cinematographer;how much cinematography can be taught?;her relationship with technology and cinematography;the amazing respect she has for Akiko Ashizawa;why there aren't more female cinematographers;what she's looking for when working with a director and whether she wants to direct;how she maintains her currency on her equipment.Indie Film Highlight: Akiko AshizawaLinks:Follow Linh Dan on InstagramMy Conversation With Akiko AshizawaPierre Angénieux Tribute

What an incredible honor to be joined by famed cinematographer Akiko Ashizawa, who was honored at the Cannes Film Festival with the 2026 Pierre Angénieux Tribute. We talk about her career, how she thought the tribute was spam!, females in cinematography, and more.The episode is recorded thanks to a translator.In this episode, Akiko and I discuss:how she found out about the Pierre Angénieux Tribute and thought it was spam!;how she got her start;what defines Japanese cinema and its visual style;her views on technology and cinematography;her mentors and her advice for young cinematographers like Nguyễn Phan Linh Đan;why there aren't more female cinematographers and whether it's improved since she started.Akiko's Indie Filmmaker Highlight: Shuichi Okita 沖田 修Links:2026 Pierre Angénieux TributeAkiko Ashizawa

We've seen the future of indie filmmaking the last few weeks with the theatrical runs of OBSESSION (2025) and BACKROOMS (2026).Let me argue that sometime in the future, we'll see a Sandbox VR or immersive experience film have that kind of launch. In this Cannes episode, I talk with senior vice president of content for Sandbox VR about what the future looks like for VR + immersive experience films.Given how many locations they already have, I'm confident Sandbox -- and Michael Hampden -- will be a part of it.In this episode, Michael and I talk about:what is Sandbox VR and his role at the company;how did he know he can not only play these games but write + direct them;what is the Curators Network and his participation in this year's event;his thoughts on the Immersive Experience films at Cannes and how it compares to Sandbox VR;the media landscape's coverage (or lack thereof) of these films;what unexpected things did he learn as part of the Curators Network;directors transitioning to Sandbox VR and what that experience is like;what's next for Sandbox VR.Link:Curators Network at CannesFollow Sandbox VR On Instagram

Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: FIRST GROWTH (2015)Director: Jérôme Le GrisWriters: Vanessa Portal; Rémi Bezançon; Jérôme Le GrisStars: Gérard Lanvin; Jalil Lespert; Alice TaglioniSYNOPSISCharlie must take over operation of his family's vineyard when it nears bankruptcy. He gambles on the farm's future by using traditional methods that went away with the introduction of new technology.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

Why film in Peru? I stopped by a booth at Le Marche du Film at the Cannes Film Festival to talk about what they have to offer filmmakers. At the Cannes Film Festival, they have a market where most countries around the world are represented.I talked with Carlos Manuel Arca Hoyle, director of Promperú France, about why people should film in western South America.In this episode, Carlos and I discuss:why film in Peru?;what films people know that were filmed in Peru;the kind of clients in Peru;the most asked question at the festival.You can reach Carlos at cmarca@promperu.gob.pe

It's a hard question for me to answer because I saw so many wonderful films, but people ask it -- what was your favorite at Cannes?And I answer it with THE STATION (2026) by Sara Ishaq, her fiction debut at the Cannes Film Festival.The film tells a story we hardly see in war films: what is happening with the families during a conflict. The characters are richly drawn from the amazing tapestry of Sara's life and she imbues it with such life that it will stay with you long after you walk out of the theater. What a bright star in independent filmmaking: Sara Ishaq.In this episode, Sarah and I discuss:what she'd like people to know about THE STATION;the events, especially 9/11, that led a Scottish-Yemeni student into filmmaking;how her triple majors at university (!) -- theology, Middle Eastern politics, law -- inform the film;what draws her to these tough topics;why she chose to focus on how war impacts families in this film.Links:Follow Sara On InstagramVariety's Review Of THE STATION

Today, I'm talking with Irish filmmaker Sophie Power, whose film WHATEVER A SUN WILL ALWAYS SING (2025), which was selected to screen at the Cannes Film Festival Short Film Corner - Cinema De Demain. The film is built entirely around recreations of four anonymous people answering the question: what was the moment you were forced to grow up?In some random order, I love hybrid documentaries; Irish filmmakers; people screening their films at Cannes and talking about it, which meant that I absolutely loved Sophie's film and talking with her about it.In this episode, Sophie and I discuss:her experimental hybrid documentary and how she blended four stories into a cohesive film;what the film says about documentary;how she got started in filmmaking;what can change systematically to help female directors and inviting more people to "grab coffee" as a way forward;her Cannes experience and what kind of advice she'd give a filmmaker attending for the first time.what's next for her and what it means to be an Irish filmmaker.Sophie's Indie Film Highlight: Andrew Thomas HuangLinks:Follow Sophie On Instagram

The people that filmmaker Ant Roberson inspires are legion: athletes looking to enter filmmaking; film school students heading to Cannes; actors inspired by meaty roles; filmmakers looking to make their feature breakthrough, and so many others.Add me to the list because I have zero doubt he'll be taking a film here to competition very shortly.In this episode, Ant and I discuss:what it's like having his film premiere at the Emerging Filmmaker Student Showcase at the Cannes Film Festival;what does he want people to know about his film;how he got his start in filmmaking;why there should be more athletes should get into filmmaking;the fascinating way he introduced the story and what it says about the horror genre;what crowdfunding was like for this film and how he followed his father's advice (which is universally great);why having a finished product is so important at the Cannes Film Festival and how he decided to balance his time;how he plans on beating a indie film system destined to make life difficult on filmmakers';how to follow along on his journey.Ant's Indie Film Highlight: Christian Kamaal (one of my all-time favorite episodes of the pod); Letia Solomon; Dante Bailey; Peter HorganLinks:Follow Ant On Instagram

Former pro footballer turned literature major and outstanding filmmaker, director Rostislav Kirpičenko brings brutal authenticity to his feature film debut, VESNA (2026), which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.The film follows a Ukrainian priest who sees his church turned into a morgue in a Russian-occupied city, and he depicts Russians in a way we hardly ever see on screen but is an accurate telling based on dispatches from occupied areas of Ukraine.He brings a humanity to a conflict that desperate for any sense of warmth, and it is an important -- but difficult -- watch.In this episode, Rostislav and I talk about:how the film portrays the unseen world of occupied Ukraine;his amazing background that takes him from Eastern Europe to pro football to filmmaker;a particular scene in which he wrote a Russian commander as sober and sneering at soldiers committing war crimes;casting for a military film;what's next for him.Rostislav's Indie Filmmaker Highlight:Links:Follow Rostislav On InstagramVESNA (2026) at the Cannes Film Festival

From the opening scene of the brilliant film, GABIN (2026), which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival this year, it was clear you were in the hands of a master of the craft of documentary. And it's no wonder: director Maxence Voiseux and producer Élise Hug worked ten years to make this happen.How such brilliance wound up on a screen at Cannes is what I wanted to know from the filmmakers, and they were happy to share.What Maxence and Élise want you to know about the film;why it was made indistinguishably from a narrative film (really!) and what that means for the state of docs;the long ten year journey of getting GABIN made;what makes an "auter-driven" documentary and why GABIN is such a marvelous work from a director with a vision;how each got into documentary film;"distance is the core of documentary" -- how he made that statement happen for GABIN and advice for documentarians for their own films;producing a film for 10 years -- is that easier or harder than a shorter timeframe? -- and the challenges particularly in France;the role of the Cannes Film Festival in elevating documentaries and how to expand that ability to other directors;their strategy coming into the Cannes Film Festival;how people should follow when GABIN will be available.weighing how much directors have to participate on social media.Indie Film Highlight: LA DETENTION (2026) dir. by Guillaume MassartLinks:Lightdox's GABINVARIETY Review of GABIN (2026)

What's it like taking a film that's 70% finished to the Cannes Film Market? Filmmaker Alain Furcajg joins me today to talk about that very question and his insightful, beautiful -- and time-sensitive - documentary RETURN TO BRITTANY, which he is hoping to finish up in the coming year before the story becomes impossible to tell due to the age of the participants.(With a potential guest appearance by Tilda Swinton on a bicycle. We'll never know.)In this episode, we discuss:the story behind RETURN TO BRITTANY and what he's looking for at Cannes;why he's there with a 70% finished documentary and the feedback he's received so far;how he got involved in documentary filmmaking;what is it like pitching this project at the Cannes Market;is it easier to be French here?;his contrary view about European filmmaking and the difficulties in getting projects madeAlain's Indie Filmmaker Highlight: Ruben ÖstlundLinks:Watch The Trailer For RETURN TO BRITTANY Follow Alain On InstagramAF Films Website

A GIRL UNKNOWN (2026), which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, succeeds on multiple levels: as a work of art about the struggle of life and the potential for rebirth; an eye-opening journey of a young girl trying to find her place in the world; a statement about the policies of China without falling into tired stereotypes; and ultimately, as a phenomenal film that challenges the viewer about how we should think of families, parenthood, and relationships.We talked about all of this for this exceptional episode of the podcast.In this episode, we talk about:how she made such a soulful film, through the prism of an ending that could have gone five different directions;why the topic of a young woman looking for her place in the world appeals to her and how this film builds off her award winning short LILI ALONE (2021);breaking away from the typical tropes of a Chinese filmmaker where one is either viewed as a government plant or a revolutionary;her strategy of bringing this film to Cannes;how she hopes to inspire future generations of female filmmakers.Links:Follow Zou Jing On InstagramWatch LILI ALONE (2021) ScreenDaily's Review Of A GIRL UNKNOWN

The word paikar is Persian for "war" or "warrior" and what you're getting from a documentary of the same name is war, of a sort, but layered among so many levels: the war within a family, the war in Afghanistan, the war within the director's own self. This is filmmaking at its highest level, and I'm so thrilled to be joined by director Dawood Hilmandi today to talk about his truly epic directorial debut, which screened at this year's Hot Docs.PAIKAR (2025)'s logline: "an Iranian expat journeys back to his homeland, where he must face his domineering father and grapple with complex emotions about family ties, cultural identity, and his place in the world."I've spent 18 months in Afghanistan and it holds a special place in my heart. Let's celebrate people like Dawood who have given so much to make their art a reality.In this episode, Dawood and I discuss:what his father would think of his film;how he got started in filmmaking;what made him decide to do PAIKAR as his directorial debut;the blend of languages in between Iran and Afghanistan and why the landscape is so important in understanding the film;what people should know before watching the film and how they should feel afterwards;the technical aspects of the film and how he decided how it was going to go -- at least in the beginning;why did he choose the festivals he did for his film;the release date for the film;what's next for him.the state of film in Afghanistan.Dawood's Indie Filmmaker Highlight: Aboozar AminiMemorable Quotes:" He would be grateful or he would feel good that it's not against him. It's more like for him or because of him."" The filmmaking, it has a long history in my family. Even as a child we were not allowed to watch films, so we were forbidden to watch films.""I need to share untold stories."" It's like when once you leave your country is almost like the memory of a home that maybe doesn't exist anymore. So you keep desiring that home. You keep thinking of it."" Just be patient with the emotional moments and with the silences in the film."" I have a different kind of connection to IDFA because I used to go there and watch films, like days nonstop, watching six films a day."" We're starting a new era of Afghan films and new sort of new type of films. Links:Follow Dawood On InstagramPAIKAR Trailer

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: FOUR LETTER WORDS (2000)Director: Catherine BreillatWriter: Sean BakerStars: Henry Beylin; David Ari; Darcy Bledsoe; Fred BermanSYNOPSISA study of the post-adolescent male psyche looks at their views, attitudes, and language.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

The kind of filmmaking that my guest, Vanessa Esteves, does is all encompassing -- job, hobby, passion. And that shows through in her latest work, CHRISTOPHER & THE BUG (2025), a "heartwarming short film about a reclusive owl whose peaceful solitude is disrupted when a tiny bug unknowingly moves into his home."We talk about why we don't see the bug, what college roommate inspired her to write this story -- not in a good way!; animated films and screentime for kids, and more.If all of our films were given the thought and love Vanessa gives her directorial debut, we would be in such a better place.In this episode, Vanessa and I discuss:do we see the bug in CHRISTOPHER & THE BUG?how she got started in filmmaking and why she decided this would be her directorial debut;what is it like producing animated films and if it is an easy jump back to live action;the lessons she's learned from producing films that she brought to CHRISTOPHER;how to tell the story on a run time of 11 minutes!;the challenges of specifically an animated film;why sound design and score were so huge for this film;the idea that animation is just for kids and how it is different in the short film world;how we can improve families and filmmaking;her day job at Boatrocker Studios as a senior director for creative affairs, kids & family, and how she feels about screentime for kids;what it's like being a filmmaker in Toronto and what's next for her.Vanessa's Indie Film Highlight: GYMNASTICS (2025) dir. by Nikki Buziak and Leo FafardMemorable Quotes:" We call it a bedtime story for adults."" The reason that you never see the bug is because I don't want it to necessarily just be a bug, right? If we showed the bug, then it's a film about an owl and a bug, and then it definitely feels like it's for kids.""I was living inside childrens' entertainment."" Honestly, storytelling is storytelling, so whether it's going to be animated or if it's going to be live action...it really is you're working with the scripts and you're focusing on the story, so the two are very interchangeable.""I learned how to tell stories on a small scale.""The sound design was huge for us and score was huge. We called score our other main character because we needed the score to be so powerful that it would draw you through, right?"" When you look at more mainstream animation, you're going to see more often, I think, blockbusters that are animated are usually for kids or family viewing. But in the short film world, it can really span everything, all the ages, all the genres."" I often say that it's not just my job, it's also my hobby, which is so true because filmmaking has been a part of my life since I was a kid."Links:Follow CHRISTOPHER & THE BUG On InstagramFollow Vanessa On Instagram

Watch This Episode On YouTubeIf you're looking to understand the business of film, let me suggest listening to Ben Fritz, who covers entertainment for the Wall Street Journal and is my guest for the podcast.Why? Well, for me, it's two things. First of all, if you listen to his astonishing documentary podcast called "With Great Power: The Rise of Superhero Cinema", you get to hear why he's such a successful journalist. An executive will offer a throwaway line, and Ben simply asks: why? You get something much closer to the truth from a one syllable question than one might expect.It happens throughout this podcast series from 2023, and it is a true masterclass on how interviews should be conducted.And two -- he's just straight with people. In this episode, we talk about an article he recently co-wrote on MUBI, the streaming service, and the money they've lost over the past year. In almost any other situation, the company doesn't participate, the article is branded a hit piece, and the audience is left wondering about the veracity of the story.Instead, MUBI's CEO is quoted in the article, which tells me the respect he gives the co-authors.Or maybe it's three: just listen to the insight Ben provides in this episode. If you go by the notion that the business offers an explanation of the films that show up on our screens, there's no better person than Ben Fritz.In this episode, Ben and I talk about:his preference for hosting a podcast or being a guest on one;his ability to tell a story evenly without looking for gotcha moments, which distinguishes his journalism;how he got started in filmmaking;what he expects out of the summer festival market;what he's learned between covering filmmaking to AI and back to filmmaking;the future of AI in filmmaking;the "$50 Movie Ticket Has Arrived" article and what it means for theaters;what that means for indie filmmakers;the behind the scenes story of his article, "How VC Money and Israel Outrage Derailed a Hot Hollywood Startup" about MUBI;what MUBI's business model portends for the industry;how production companies make money in such a competitive environment -- branding;why Silicon Valley doesn't invest more in Hollywood;what's next for him and how things have changed since 2019;Ben's Indie Film Highlights: PINK WALL (2019) dir. by Tom Cullen; COW (2021) dir. by Andrea ArnoldMemorable Quotes:"I try to make clear to people I'm not gonna pull any punches, but I'm also not here to try to get a gotcha moment.""I feel like it's becoming a lot like everything in the American economy, which is, it's a have and have-nots world."" What I realized quickly is if you understand the business, then you understand why you get the movies and TV shows that you get, right?"" So you could see more movies getting made, more original movies getting made, more people who don't have access to Disney and Netflix being able to raise a little bit of money and make an interesting movie on their own. So we could see this blossoming of creativity that maybe would rival what we saw in the 1970s."" The danger, which some people in Hollywood think, is the more movies become a premium experience where you spend a lot of money, the more it becomes something people think of as I only do this two or three times a year," " I think the I'm gonna get a specialty label or specialty company to buy it and put it in theaters is...that's like winning the lottery at this point."" The one promising thing in this world of indie film theatrical I've seen recently is you've seen some YouTubers put movies into theaters and find a niche audience."" I was able to connect to a source who was just close to Mubi, who was able to give me a lot of inside information on really what happened."" Mubi is a solid business. That's why Sequoia invested in them. It is a healthy business. They just made this huge mistake last year.""My teenage son knows what A24 is, and that name means something to him.""Sequoia's investment in Mubi was shocking to a lot of people. This is so outside the box for what they normally do. And the only other prominent example of VC investment in entertainment is A24, which definitely has some VC investment in it."Links:Ben Fritz's WSJ PageBen Fritz's Website

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: LAST SUMMER (2023)Director: Catherine BreillatWriters: Catherine Breillat; Pascal Bonitzer; Maren Louise KäehneStars: Léa Drucker; Samuel Kircher; Olivier RabourdinSYNOPSISSuccessful lawyer Anne leads a happy life with her husband Pierre and their two daughters. But when she begins an affair with Theo, Pierre's son from a previous marriage, her career and family life are in jeopardy.

Watch This Episode On YouTubeThe film SEAWEED SNACKS (2026), which screened at Slamdance this year, was so moving for me as a father that I wanted to talk with the person that directed it -- Sylvia Ray, a great episode, you can find it linked in the show notes -- and my guest today, the writer, Brandyn Johnson.What does it feel like when someone else directs your words? Why the focus on fatherhood? What is it like mentoring young up and coming filmmakers at Ghetto Film School? Is a USC grad education worth it? We get into all this and more with Brandyn, a brilliant filmmaker and writer currently based in Los Angeles.Finally, we talk about suicide in this episode. If you're struggling, there are resources, starting with 988 if you need someone to talk with about your journey. Kindness truly is currency, as Brandyn says on the show; we want you sitting next to us at the birthday party.n this episode, Brandyn and I talk about:why the topic of fatherhood is so important to him;how much he believes in "write what you know";his start in filmmaking and the incredible work he does for Ghetto Film School;whether teenagers are benefiting from a filmmaking perspective from constant access to video-making devices;his recommendations on an MFA from USC;the experience of watching someone else direct your work as he did in SEAWEED SNACKS;the honesty he tried to imbue in the film;as a writer, what kind of story would he not be comfortable giving away?is it an ego thing connected with just being "writer/director"?the humility associated with giving up your story as a writer in order to get it made;his personal new film, COPARENTING STOREY;what's next for him and why he's so passionate about storytelling.Memorable Quotes:On fatherhood: "Just generally speaking, it's right in front of my face."" Hats off to filmmakers who can write things and build worlds that might not necessarily directly reflect where they come from.""Access in that way is really great for the folks who are aware of that access."On Ghetto Film School's art: "as long as they are making things that prioritize story."" I've been doing this work for almost 20 years, right? So...the reason why I keep doing it is because...it's definitely great to see young people find power."" As a storyteller, our best stories come from our experiences.""It's hard to be creative when you have broke goggles on."" I pitched projects that I knew I would be okay giving away."" If there's one thing that USC is really great at is, it helps you, it forces you to be a great collaborator."" And I think that's also what SEAWEED SNACKS was about. I just want it to be honest.""The soul is in my words."On COPARENTING STOREY: "It's all built around, like the ability that we have to design the kind of life that we want to see.""If I'm going to be here, I'm going to make a net positive impact."Links:Follow Brandyn On InstagramFollow Ghetto Film SchoolCOPARENTING STOREY On Film IndependentWatch Sylvia Ray, director of SEAWEED SNACKS

Watch This Episode On YouTubeThe words "artist, writer, and director" that my guest, filmmaker Suki Chan, uses to describe herself, do not come close to encompassing the artistic brilliance of her feature directorial debut, CONSCIOUS (2026), which she premiered at CPH:DOX this year in Denmark.The film delves into the stories of three people who "navigate dementia in transformative ways", and even that gives short shrift to what we see on screen. I don't think I've seen a documentary get closer to explaining the frailty of the human mind in visual form.It's no surprise to people who've seen Suki's art, though -- they say this gorgeously shot film is in line with her signature style. I cannot wait for you to see this film and for what's next for Suki.In this episode, Suki and I talk about:how she decided to approach making CONSCIOUS and what that tells us about documentary filmmaking;how she went from a fine art degree to expanding into moving image;her signature style, whether it's sculpture or a film;the medium of documentary and where she thinks it's going in the future;incorporating dramatizations into the film and what she learned about that process -- and people who wanted to play themself!;how she assembled a team that does not normally work on documentaries;what's next for her and when can viewers get an opportunity to see this brilliant film.Memorable Quotes:" I didn't set out to make a film that was at such a high level for documentary. I made the film in the way that feels the most natural to me as an artist."" It then made me realize that dementia wasn't just gonna be one chapter. It was actually quite integral to understanding consciousness."" I decided to create moving image, because for me, it's something that can unfold over time. And I think people always describe my sculptures, my installations as being cinematic and working with lights and shadows."" How come we don't see the brain? How come you're talking about consciousness? And we don't see the brain?"Links:Follow Suki On Instagram

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: YEAST (2008)Director: Mary BronsteinScreenplay: Mary Bronstein; Greta GerwigStars: Mary Bronstein; Greta Gerwig; Benny SafdieSYNOPSISA maddeningly oblivious, tyrannical and emotionally stunted young woman tries her best to negotiate two toxic friendshipsSubscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

Watch This Episode On YouTubeOnly a Marine could get away with writing a novella entitled -- let me make I'm sure I got this right -- "Let's Murder the Fuck out of Baby Hitler." And even then, maybe only a Marine who is a filmmaker and screenwriter.Fellow redleg Eric Leja (servicemember assigned to the artillery branch) returns to the podcast to talk about his new novella which is he is hoping to turn into a feature or a series; the reaction to such a provocative title in an industry that claims to support free speech; the lumping of veterans immediately into the red hat crowd, and more.He asked me, are you sure you're okay with the title? Fuck yeah, I'm okay. I'm supporting fellow veterans till I die. We do touch on politics in this episode, which I'm usually loathe to do because you hear enough of this stuff on everything other than a film podcast. But if you do hear something you disagree with, certainly as it relates to the film industry, I'd love to hear why.And that brings us right back to where we started: Eric's novella. Spoiler alert, no babies are actually harmed. The whole point of it is to think about our current situation in a new and hopefully funny way. And to let Eric turn this into a feature film. Fire for effect, I'm cheering him on.In this episode, Eric and I discuss:how the catchy name came about;what he's been up to since the strike;why he decided to self-publish on Amazon and the amount of money he makes per sale;the chilling of speech and how that's different than Hollywood at any point in Eric's lifetime;how far he decided to go politically in the novella;the assumptions made about veterans in film and politics;what the future of the novella is;the challenges facing the business right now and the power of dentists in filmmaking!Eric's Indie Film Highlight: GODMOTHER dir. by John VeronMemorable Quotes:" I don't think it's ethical to Hitler-ize my children."" if things keep going like this unchecked, this is what it's gonna look like and it's gonna be, dystopic far right version of America. That was what the screenplay was about. And it came from a place of anti extremism."" Everyone's horrified to do anything right now."" I've never seen in my lifetime out here, like these corporations also having to fight for attention from the government and a constant approval as well."On the expectations of being red-pilled as a veteran: " I've noticed a lot of sighs of relief when I like reveal that I'm not like that."" People have literally said to me like, I think it's so cool that you're a veteran, but you're not like one of those veterans."" Nobody at like Warner wants to be the guy holding the TV show with three showrunners that's struggling to get off the ground when Paramount buys 'em."Links:Buy LET'S MURDER THE FUCK OUT OF BABY HITLER NowFollow Eric On Instagram

Elected at 26 to the New York State Assembly, my guest today, filmmaker Rafael Espinal says it was easier to become a politician than chase his dreams into indie film. Think about that for a moment!Now he's helping you achieve your dreams by serving as commissioner of New York City Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, or MOME. And what I mean by that is I didn't expect him to be so in tune with the plights of independent filmmaking, in New York City and elsewhere. We talk about the challenges of indie filmmaking in NYC, including improving permitting; how it can be competitive globally; childcare in the city and how that affects filmmakers; the hopeful rise of more diverse voices, and more.All that said, the main takeaway if you're out there wanting to make a film career in NYC, he's on your side. And if you want to move your production studio or career to the best city in the world, he's the man for that as well.I don't think you can listen to this episode and not be bullish on the prospects of making a film in New York City over the next few years.In this episode, Rafael and I talk about:why he is the best person to lead the NYC MOME right now -- he's an indie filmmaker as well (he made his first film recently);what he's going to do with his film -- festival route? YouTube? -- and how that affects how he runs MOME;what does the commission do for me?;his sympathies (but honest advice) for the filmmakers not applying for permits in the city;his comments when taking the job that " the systems are extremely archaic in a way that creates a burden on production companies" -- have things improved?;production space in NYC and the role of AI in the built environment;how the Mayor's goal of free childcare throughout the city will influence filmmakers in the city and what MOME can do to help;diversifying the industry in New York City and how making it "look like our subway cars" actually happens;whatever happened to the Alliance for Downtown New York's Filmmaker in Chief initiative and how we get MOME's name out there in terms of outreach?how does NYC plan to stay competitive in attracting global productions?his goals for the next few years.Memorable Quotes:" Just recently, I made my first professional short film that I've been working on."" Like every filmmaker, we sit at home thinking about, how do we get exposure, who's gonna help us produce and make our first film?"" What I'm most proud of about the team here at the film office is that the folks running the permit system are actually independent filmmakers themselves."" If you want to ensure that you don't have the NYPD or any other agency come down and shut down your production, the best thing you can do is come to us.""[I] remember what it is to be someone who's just trying to make their film, who is looking for their way into the industry. And that's what I bring to the table."" Our dream here is to see a film industry and a film landscape where the workers and the directors and the folks on sets look like our subway cars, right?"" Going to the DMV is not the most pleasant experience, and I don't want filmmakers to feel like going to MOME feels like going to the DMV, right?"" There are folks out there, investors doubling down on building stages in the city of New York."" It was easier for me to become a politician than it was to be a film director."" We haven't fully baked it yet, but I'm thinking about how do we replicate that idea and create filmmakers in each borough."" At the end of the day, top line, I would love to say that New York has become the easiest and most affordable place to make a movie."Links:Follow Rafael On InstagramFollow MOME On Instagram

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: HAPPYEND (2024)Director: Neo SoraWriter: Neo SoraStars: Kurihara Hayato; Hidaka Yukito; Ayumu NakajimaSYNOPSISFriends Yuta and Kou, about to graduate, sneak into school. They pull off a terrible prank and face unforeseen consequences as graduation approaches.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

One time, it might be a coincidence. But time after time, if you're going to areas that make other people afraid, like underground fight clubs in Asia or the Chilean Andes or like in her latest film, SILVER (2026), a mine in Bolivia, that's your hallmark as a filmmaker.You can say that about my guest, brilliant director Natalia Koniarz, whose film SILVER won the Documentary Feature Grand Jury Prize at this year's Slamdance film festival. No explanations, no interviews, just gorgeous cinema about a Bolivia mine that needs to be seen on a big screen.Will it? How can we do that? We discuss that on this episode, as well as being absolute brave as hell. When I'm sleeping in my warm bed, I thank God for filmmakers like Natalia.In this episode, Natalia and I discuss:what do all the awards tell her about SILVER? And what does it feel like?what should people know about the film before watching;how she got such immersive footage of the mines that few films have achieved;did anyone tell her she needs to offer more explanations in the film?;how she knew she wanted to get involved in filmmaking;her next film will be about underground fighting in Asia -- what draws her to otherworldly topics?the distribution process and the challenges of seeing a doc like hers in a theater;indie filmmaking in Paris and Poland;what's next for her.Memorable Quotes:" It's a very immersive film where you have to immerse into the world. There is no explanation of history or there's no interviews."" I was asking the miners and people around how they would make the film."" I've met people who have been completely crushed by the film and I met those who haven't felt anything. And I think it's the way that things exist in the art."On her film's topics: " I have this feeling that they are choosing me more than I'm choosing this."" I don't treat fear as something bad."" That's actually a game changer also...how easy it is in Europe, easier to have co-productions between countries."Links:Follow Natalia On Instagram

Watch This Episode On YouTubeLet's all wish happy birthday to filmmaker Victoria Trow, whose film ERUCTATION (2026) won big at SXSW this year -- not at all surprising once you watch it.That said, when you first read about it, at least for me, it was...a film about what? Burping? Then you watch it and realize you're in the hands of an ultra-talented admaker and filmmaker for six quick minutes that makes you know right away that she's going far.Her attention to detail, use of color and sound, all make ERUCTATION and Victoria one of my favorite films -- and guests -- of the year. Happy birthday, Victoria! Hope today is a great one.In this episode, Victoria and I discuss:how excited she was to attend SXSW this year, even before knowing her film would win!;her start in filmmaking and all of the things that led up to the incredible cinematic experience of her film;the evolution in her thinking from considering herself just a writer to directing films;what part of advertising work she dislikes;the crazy reactions to watching ERUCTATION or even just hearing about the topic;how hard it is to get comedy right in advertising;why the incredible 6 minute run time for ERUCTATION;does she read reviews for her films?the essential palette to the film and the amazing sense of place;her approach to going to SXSW;what's next for her and jumping between narrative and documentary.her advice for indie filmmakers and work with Charli XCX;artists compartmentalizing their talents -- they shouldn't!Victoria's Indie Filmmaker Highlights: Mike Egan; Victor GabrielMemorable Quotes:"15 years in advertising and 15 years plotting my escape."" And then this project literally burped in my face, so I thought maybe this is the one to try it.""Do you wanna make a documentary about burping? They would laugh like you are now. And then I think. yeah, I just wanna make something fun and dumb and make something that can be beautiful."" Let's make a burp joke, but treat it seriously with reverence." "This should feel like Portland in the rain.""Don't be afraid to talk about your ideas."Links:Follow Victoria On InstagramVictoria's Website

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: ADOPT A HIGHWAY (2019)Director: Logan Marshall-GreenStory By: Logan Marshall-GreenStars: Ethan Hawke; Elaine Hendrix; Diane GaetaSYNOPSISWhen an ex-convict finds an abandoned baby in a dumpster, he gains a new lease on life, deciding to dedicate himself to making sure the child has a good life.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn

Watch This Episode On YouTubeHere's a challenge: watch the first few minutes of ROAD TO L'ETAPE DU TOUR (2026) and not get the sense you're seeing a documentary. Impossible because the film is that good about its comparison to real life. The logline: facing a turning point in her life, a woman with a congenital heart defect embarks on a journey to train for a famous cycling race.It's all narrative, but the heart of the film, just like all her other art, is from its director, Julia Coulter, who you can tell from this discussion puts her whole being into her art.The opening segment is Julia talking about her lighting decisions in BROTHERS (2021), which you should watch. It is cinema at its highest level. Julia takes a couple of actors, a single location, and makes something that will stay with you for a long time. The film is linked below.I felt so lucky to watch her films and hear about how much love she puts into them, and I think you will feel the same way, too.In this episode, Julia and I talk about:why she made a narrative film that feels like a documentary in parts;how she came up with that brilliantly moving first scene, performing a stress test, and how that sets up the character for the film;her hopes to inspire others through her film;her start in filmmaking -- writing, directing, and acting! -- and how she figured out which to do in her first two short films;did the classical acting education help her craft?her lessons from casting films from an actor's perspective;her deeply personal film, BROTHERS, and what she took away from that experience in making such a moving film with just three characters and a hotel room;why we don't see more shorts like BROTHERS and HABIT (2022), which are so refined in run time, story, and cinematography?her advice for people directing other peoples' writing;whether it would be harder for her to give up directing or acting;the financial hurdles of making her first feature;the ending of ROAD TO L'ETAPE DU TOUR and the feeling she wants to give the audience;whether actors as directors handle complexity better in a story;why Cinequest and what she's looking for at a festival;what's next for her and the film.Julia's Indie Film Highlight: DICK JOHNSON IS DEAD (2020) dir. by Kirsten Johnson; CLOSE (2022) dir. by Lukas DhontMemorable Quotes:"It's something that we see very intense, like athletes doing, but never in the context of hospitals have I seen that on screen.""I was very inspired by mumblecore.""If I wanted to create something, then I could just go out and do it. I could go out and write it. And so that gave me the freedom that acting alone doesn't where you are waiting on somebody else and their opinion of you or their opinion of your skills.""Do I have such a clear vision in my head when I write things that I really want to be the director? I think the answer to that is yes.""I always try to center myself on what do I want to watch and what would I go and see and what would I be interested in feeling from seeing a film? That's what I think is matters in the end.""Giving yourself constraints is actually helpful sometimes."Links:Follow Julia On InstagramWatch BROTHERS (2020)

Watch This Episode On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: THE WOMAN IN THE FIFTH (2011)Director: Pawel PawlikowskiStory By: Douglas KennedyStars: Ethan Hawke; Kristin Scott Thomas; Joanna KuligSYNOPSISTom Ricks, estranged from his wife and daughter, travels to Paris to try and reunite with them, but he's left dejected when his wife slams the door in his face. Then, one evening, he meets Margit, a beautiful and enigmatic widow. They embark on a passionate affair - and she seems to have real faith in his creativity. Before long, a series of disturbing events begin to cast doubt on whether she is all she seems.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on TikTokFollow us on LinkedIn