In this episode, I share a breakdown of some amazing and unconventional lens choices on the feature film Poor Things. While many lenses were used throughout production, there were 4 in particular that I believe contributed most critically to the distinct look of this film - Including a pair of Lomography Petzval lenses, and a 4mm lens adapted from Super 16.  Throughout the episode, I cover each lens in depth, explore how they were used, and share other key takeaways from the film. Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday ..read more

In this new solo episode, I break down these 8 common issues that can kill your indie film: Big egos Rushing the script Dragging out development Overspending on equipment Neglecting actors for camera Making sound an afterthought Not taking feedback from the team Not caring about the small details Throughout the show I take a deep dive into the root cause of each of these issues, along with practical solutions for working around them. Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday ..read more

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Steven Pierce to talk all about his latest feature film Herd. The film follows a woman that ends up trapped between a zombie outbreak and warring militia groups while trying to outrun her past. An ambitious concept for a micro-budget, making the execution of it all that much more impressive. Throughout the episode Steven and I speak about his new film at length. We cover his tactics for shooting action sequences on a budget, how he covered 20+ locations, the process of editing his own film, and much more. Links from the show: Herd - Movie Website H ..read more

In this new solo episode, I compare and contrast my experience directing and DP’ing two separate feature films, and share tips for other filmmakers looking to do the same. Throughout the episode we cover everything from camera & lens choice to on-set workflow. All with the intention of maximizing collaboration with actors, achieving great production value, and simplifying your on-set workflow. Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday ..read more

Today I am joined by writer / director Benjamin Epstein to talk about his acclaimed feature film Buck Alamo, which stars Bruce Dern, Sonny Carl Davis, Lorelei Linklater, and premiered at the Oldenburg Film Festival. Throughout the episode we discuss Benjamin’s path as a filmmaker. From his early short film work to his first premiere at SXSW. We also unpack his creative process, his experience directing TV, and take a behind the scenes look at his latest feature film Buck Alamo. Links from the show: Benjamin Epstein - Instagram Buck Alamo - Movie Website Sign up for my newsletter for exclus ..read more

In this episode I am excited to be joined by acclaimed DP Danny Ruhlmann, whose latest feature film Anyone But You (starring Sydney Sweeney & Glen Powell) is out in theaters today. Throughout the episode Danny generously shares his wealth of knowledge on all things cinematography - From specific tactics for beauty lighting to creative workflows for achieving better results on set in less time. We also discuss networking methods for aspiring DPs, overall career advice, and much more. Links from the show: Anyone But You - IMDB Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight ea ..read more

Today I am joined by filmmaker, director, and actor Scott Monahan to talk all about his brand new feature film Anchorage. Anchorage was shot in just 5 days on a budget of barely over $50,000, but that didn’t stop the film from landing a wildly successful festival tour and eventual theatrical release. Throughout the interview we take a deep dive behind the scenes look at this innovative feature. We also go in depth on the importance of telling personal stories, the production process, festival strategy, navigating rejection, and so much more. Links from the show: Anchorage Movie - Instagram ..read more

Today, I am thrilled to be joined by Tom DeLonge of blink-182, Angels & Airwaves, and To The Stars, here to talk all about his debut feature film Monsters Of California. As a longtime fan of Tom’s, it was a treat to host this conversation and hear about his evolution into filmmaking first hand. We discuss the origin story of Monsters, how Tom’s band Angels & Airwaves sparked his interest in cinema, and Tom’s directorial approach to making this film. Tom also speaks to how his DIY roots in punk music informed his approach while filming, resulting in innovative tactics that helped him ..read more

In this episode I am joined by writer / director Bishal Dutta to talk all about his debut feature film It Lives Inside. After making dozens of short films, Bishal leveraged his impressive body of work to develop an amazing feature film with NEON. Throughout the interview, we discuss Bishal’s trajectory from making self funded projects to a theatrically released feature. We also touch on the nuances of the horror genre, Bishal’s creative approach to directing, and much more. Links from the show: Bishal Dutta - Instagram Bishal Dutta - Twitter Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmak ..read more

Today, I am thrilled to be joined by Jennifer Esposito, here to discuss the incredible journey making and releasing her debut feature film, Fresh Kills. Throughout the episode Jennifer documents her creative process at length - from conceptualizing the first female driven organized crime movie, to navigating countless obstacles to raise production financing. She also shares invaluable insight for filmmakers on vetting producers, building a team, and working with actors, along with her experience premiering at Tribeca and much more! Links from the show: Jennifer Esposito - Instagram Jennife ..read more