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Benjamin Duchek

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First Time Go

First Time GoCharles HoodWatch This Episode On YouTubeI feel like this would be a good plotline for a gonzo Mission Impossible movie: make romcoms and comedy dramas relevant again. In one sentence, my guest, director and podcaster Charles Hood, declared “comedies and comedy dramas are dead, sadly” but also came back in the next few sentences with the announcement, I’m releasing a romcom feature later this year. This sounds exactly like a challenge, if you choose to accept it, for one of the co-hosts of the official Mission Impossible podcast. And here’s to thinking he’ll be succe...2025-08-0540 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: PEOPLE PLACES THINGS (2015)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: PEOPLE PLACES THINGS (2015). Director: James C. StrouseScreenplay: James C. StrouseCast: Jermaine Clement; Regina Hall; Stephanie AllynneSYNOPSISA graphic novelist /professor (Jemaine Clement) tries to navigate the unfamiliar waters of single fatherhood and dating.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us on XFollow us on F...2025-08-0301 min

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First Time GoEbs BurnoughThis is still an indie film podcast, don’t misunderstand, but if I had to do one conversation with somebody who made a studio film, it would be with my guest Ebs Burnough. I’d argue no other person understands the indie film market like he does, especially now with the release of KEROUAC’S ROAD: THE BEAT OF A NATION (2025). The film examines how Jack Kerouac’s iconic novel “On the Road” resonates in contemporary America. Ebs has a career that hardly seems repeatable — working for the White House to chairing the Sundance Institute — but those kind of unique sto...2025-08-0122 min

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First Time GoImani DavisI don’t know if we’ve ever had such fire practical advice from a film festival programmer who — I know this is shocking — actually cares about indie filmmakers than the pod does today with my guest, Imani Davis. From how the PROOF Film Festival got started to the advice she gives directors to take notes and cut your short films, this is absolutely the pod for you if you want to make it in indie film today. I’m so excited for you to hear from such an innovative voice in the industry. Imani and I talk about...2025-07-3032 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: COME AS YOU ARE (2019)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: COME AS YOU ARE (2019).Director: Richard WongScreenplay: Erik LinthorstCast: Grant Rosenmeyer; Hayden Szeto; Ravi PatelSYNOPSISA travelling nurse takes three disabled men on a road trip to Montreal so they can lose their virginity at a brothel.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on Instagram 2025-07-2701 min

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First Time GoXavier Encinas“Creative director, curator, publisher, collector” and founder of Sixteen World Xavier Encinas joins me on the podcast for this episode. I’d argue you could also add great podcast guest because he pushes back against this idea that France is a great haven for independent film. As part of his Sixteen artistic venture, he curates the Sixteen Film Institute, with a new film weekly, mostly from around the world, not France. Let’s not misstate his argument — he has nothing against French cinema, he lives there. He’s planning film events in Paris for this Fall. He’s saying, the w...2025-07-2528 min

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First Time GoAmanda SthersThere’s no more exciting place to be in independent film than the intersection of France and the United States, or as a filmmaker in either of these locations. In France, cinemas are packed and the Cannes Film Festival often sets the tone for what’s considered the best films of the year. So if the goal is understanding France’s role in global cinema, there is no better person than my guest, Amanda Sthers, who has released three feature films that star globally known actors and help explain, in each of their ways, what is attractive about f...2025-07-2239 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: I LIKE MOVIES (2022)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: I LIKE MOVIES (2022).Director: Chandler LevackScreenplay: Chandler LevackCast: Isaiah Lehtinen; Percy Hynes White; Veronika SlowikowskaSYNOPSISSocially awkward 17-year-old cinephile Lawrence Kweller takes a part-time job at Sequels video store, where he forms a complicated friendship with his older store manager, Alana. Lawrence hopes to earn enough money to achieve his dream of attending film school at NYU.Subscribe to our YouTube c...2025-07-2001 min

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First Time GoNicolai SchumannBottle films, films made predominately in one location, are like playing with fire. There’s not a lot of room to make a good film if you don’t cast well, for instance, or if the location of your bottle isn’t fantastic. My guest, director Nicolai Schumann, understood all this….because he watched a bunch of the previous bottle films…and went ahead with THE LONELY MUSKETEER (2024) anyway. And I’m so glad that he did. The film tells the story of “the psychological downfall of a man who is highly traumatized by life.” Along the way, it’s earned...2025-07-1821 min

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First Time GoJennie ButlerWatch This Episode On YouTubeThis is way easier said than done but when you’re making a short film, you need a couple things to exceptionally stand out. Whether it’s the writing, cinematography, subject…something. Otherwise, you’re lost in a sea of submissions. The money is almost irrelevant if you don’t have the goods. For my guest Jennie Butler and her film, GEORGIE (2024), it’s piecing out a theme of his life from an interview and then making an extraordinary film from that thread. Jennie calls GEORGIE a “melancholic but humorous pro...2025-07-1527 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: NIGHT OWLS (2015)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: NIGHT OWLS (2015). Director: Charles HoodScreenplay: Charles Hood; Seth GoldsmithCast: Rosa Salazar; Adam Pally; Peter KrauseSYNOPSISKevin goes home with Madeline for a drunken one-night stand and is horrified to learn she is his boss's ex-mistress. After he catches her taking a box of sleeping pills, they slowly start to fall in love as he keeps her...2025-07-1301 min

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First Time GoChristian SwegalWatch This Episode On YouTubeWatch SOVEREIGN NowSOVEREIGN (2025) is a filmmakers’ thriller and the story behind its director, my guest, Christian Swegal, is one of the best in independent film this year. The reason that so many investors are reluctant to back a new director for their first feature is one of skepticism — they think the director won’t be able to handle the responsibility. And when you add in powerhouse actors like Nick Offerman and Dennis Quaid, it’s fair to expect a watered-down mush of a film which critics and audiences would chalk up...2025-07-1226 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: MARJORIE PRIME (2017)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: MARJORIE PRIME (2017). Director: Michael AlmereydaWriters: Michael Almereyda; Jordan HarrisonCast: Geena Davis; Hannah Gross; Jon HammSYNOPSISEighty-six-year-old Marjorie spends her final, ailing days with a computerized version of her deceased husband. With the intent to recount their life together, Marjorie's Prime relies on the information from her and her kin to develop a more complex understanding of his hi...2025-07-0601 min

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First Time GoNathaniel LezraHappy 2nd anniversary to the pod, and I can’t think of a more vital filmmaker for our time and for this episode than Nathaniel Lezra. His film ROADS OF FIRE (2025), winner of the Best Feature Documentary at the 2025 ‪@officialSBIFF‬ interweaves the lives of a human smuggler navigating the treacherous Darién Gap (the only land bridge between North and South America), an asylum seeker rebuilding her life in New York City, and volunteers working on the frontlines of a growing humanitarian emergency.It found distribution from ‪@NewMountainFilms‬ with a theatrical release in September 2025, with event screenings in markets...2025-07-0431 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: YOU CAN COUNT ON ME (2000)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: YOU CAN COUNT ON ME (2000).Director: Kenneth LonerganScreenplay: Kenneth LonerganCast: Laura Linney; Kenneth Lonergan; Mark Ruffalo; Matthew BroderickSYNOPSISSammy is a single mother who is extremely protective of her 8-year old son. She is satisfied with living in the small town she grew up in and working in a local bank. When her brother Terry visits he fits the void in the life o...2025-06-2901 min

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First Time GoAntonio Harper & Abby BurtonWatch FORWARD THINKING (2025) NowI’m not sure if the pod has ever gotten a bigger honor than what Antonio Harper & Abby Burton gave it in this episode — sure, they said, listeners can watch our short, currently on its festival run. FORWARD THINKING (2025) is a “surreal short film about a young black man who is attempting to trademark his likeness in the event that he's murdered by the police.” And to me, that sells it short. It’s a film about race that goes further than any other film I’ve seen in a way that makes you think ab...2025-06-2735 min

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First Time GoBlake JarvisAn upcoming wedding, a film that made it into Tribeca -- filmmaker Blake Jarvis is having himself a summer. IN JEFF WE TRUST (2025)'s logline is "two mentally ill girls regret joining a cult...but is it too late?" It is a hilarious short film produced and starring comedy duo Sydney Heller and Olivia DeLaurentis. Other than finding out if he has a band or a DJ, we go pretty deep into this guy's amazing summer for this episode.Blake and I talk about:how did he find out hi...2025-06-2426 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES (2024)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: HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES (2024)Director: Pat BoonnitipatWriters: Pat Boonnitipat; Thodsapon ThiptinnakornCast: Putthipong Assaratanakul; Usha Seamkhum; Sanya KunakornSYNOPSISA man, driven by his desire for a multi-million dollar inheritance, begins to care for his terminally ill grandmother. However, winning her favor will not be an easy task and he is not the only one w...2025-06-2201 min

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First Time GoMax MorganWatch This Episode On YouTubeJoining me today is…he is going to hate that I write it this way, as you’ll hear in the conversation…but the director with the most nominated film at Raindance, Max Morgan, talking about his film BREAKWATER (2025).The ability to make your first feature, your first film, carry the weight of, and I’ll quote Max here, “people never mean what they say, and there is a lot of that in BREAKWATER” is simply breathtaking. I’ve posted the trailer in the YouTube conversation, go watch it and you see what y...2025-06-2040 min

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First Time GoStephen Gerard KellyWatch This Episode On YouTubeIf you watch IN THE SHADOW OF BEIRUT (2023), you might get an idea about the director, and guess he has a cinematographer's eye for visuals and a humanist's approach to connecting with people. This episode proves that assessment right about director Stephen Gerard Kelly.IN THE SHADOW OF BEIRUT is described as "a portrait of modern-day Lebanon as seen through the eyes of four families living in the backdrop of an infamous massacre in 1982." It's visually stunning and Stephen calls it a "bit of an emotional juggernaut."It...2025-06-1730 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: 29,000 WISHES. 1 REGRETWatch 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: 29,000 WISHES. 1 REGRET (2012)Director: Oliver RobinsWriters: Oliver RobinsCast: Justus Zimmerman; Casey RuggieriSYNOPSISAfter losing their jobs, a husband (Justus Zimmerman) and wife (Casey Ruggieri) decide to max out their credit cards and have some fun, then commit suicide.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on Instagram 2025-06-1501 min

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First Time GoRick StantonWatch This Episode On YouTube The film, SPECTRUM (2024), directed by my guest, Rick Stanton, is a true triumph for art and sticking to one's own vision. As he said, “it’s a very honest take on what life is like as an adult with autism.” Rick's path into filmmaking is unconventional and instead of paying endless amount of festival fees, he's forging a different path.In this episode, Rick and I talk about:what you should expect to see when you watch SPECTRUM -- "very honest take on what life is like as an a...2025-06-1332 min

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First Time GoSky SitneyDC/DOX is about to celebrate its third year, and I chat with co-founder Sky Sitney about its origin story, celebrity documentary, AI in docs, the financial plight of doc filmmakers, and more.Befitting a powerhouse in the doc filmmaking world, Sky took on the most challenging questions and gave thought-provoking answers. It's no surprise with her leadership DC/DOX has become an international stop in the world of documentary in three quick years.In this episode, Sky and I discuss:the origin story of DC/DOX and how it become a staple of...2025-06-1031 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: GOD'S POCKET (2014)Watch The Video On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: GOD'S POCKET (2014)Director: John SlatteryWriters: Peter Dexter; Alex Metcalf; John SlatteryCast: Philip Seymour Hoffman; Richad Jenkins; Christina Hendricks; John TurturroSYNOPSISA boozy lowlife (Philip Seymour Hoffman) tries to bury the truth about his crazy stepson's suspicious death, but a nosy newspaper columnist (Richard Jenkins) and the young man's mother complicate matters.Subscribe to our Y...2025-06-0801 min

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First Time GoHuiju ParkGo See WELCOME HOME FRECKLES at DC/DOX on June 14th, 12pmWatch This Episode On YouTubeWhat do you do when people question your style of filmmaking? If you know that the story is in your heart, as my guest Huiju Park did with her film WELCOME HOME FRECKLES (2025), you make your film your way. In a deeply personal tale about her return home to Korea for the first time in four years, that's what she did. We talk about that and so much more with this UK-based filmmaker, whose authenticity will astound you.2025-06-0622 min

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First Time GoAoife KelleherWatch This Episode On YouTubeWith the baritones of Bono and U2 as the soundtrack, the globe-trotting world of Mary Robinson requires an epic film to depict her life, and thankfully, they found the director that can deliver just that in Irish filmmaker Aoife Kelleher.Aoife gave us the brilliant film MRS ROBINSON (2024), still on its festival run. MRS ROBINSON tells the inspirational life story of change-maker Mary Robinson: Ireland’s first female President, a pioneering UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the successor of Nelson Mandela as Chair of The Elders.An...2025-06-0323 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: BEFORE/DURING/AFTER (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: BEFORE/DURING/AFTER (2020)Director: Stephen Kunken; Jack LewarsScreenplay: Finnerty SteevesCast: Finnerty Steeves; Jeremy Davidson; John Pankow; John Ellison ConleeSYNOPSISThis sharp-witted dramedy studies a middle-aged NYC theatre actress suddenly forced to figure out the kind of person she wants to portray in real life when her marriage comes to an end after she catches her husband...2025-06-0101 min

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First Time GoSasha WortzelWatch This Episode On YouTubeAs soon as RIVER OF GRASS (2025) starts, the viewer is given an astonishing sense of place, and according to my guest, director Sasha Wortzel, this is most certainly by design. The film -- "an ode to the Florida Everglades past and present" -- is an amazing piece of artwork that elevates its subject to a character all of its own. Wherever you watch the film -- perhaps at DC/DOX on June 14th, 2025 -- you are going to feel like you are in Florida.I’m not sure you’re tran...2025-05-3026 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: UNTOGETHER (2018)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: UNTOGETHER (2018).Director: Emma ForrestWritten By: Emma ForrestCast: Jamie Dornan; Ben Mendelsohn; Jemima Kirke; Lola Kirke; Billy CrystalSYNOPSISOnce considered a teen prodigy, a recovering addict sobers up and tries to get her writing career back on track. She begins a relationship with a rising author known for his wartime memoirs.Watch This Episode On...2025-05-2501 min

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First Time GoLaura Valera & Andrew James GonzalesWatch This Episode On YouTubeAs we move further away from the conventional wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, colloquially known as the Global War on Terror, the need for films like AMERICAN SONS (2025) is greater; it informs us, through powerful filmmaking, what we've lost.AMERICAN SONS follows a brotherhood of Marines a decade after their deployment to Afghanistan, as they struggle to overcome the trauma of combat and the loss of their best friend, Corporal JV Villarreal.I am joined today by director Andrew James Gonzales and producer Laura Valera for an important...2025-05-2326 min

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First Time GoNatalie HallaWatch This Episode On YouTubeNatalie Halla, the award winning Austrian filmmaker of THE LAST AMBASSADOR (2025), among other films, found that her way of making the world a better place is making insightful and incisive films. In her latest, she tells the story of Manizha Bakhtari, who is "risking everything in her fight for the rights of girls and women in Afghanistan."It had its North American premiere at Hot Docs to a standing ovation, and Natalie is here to talk about her journey and her powerful filmmaking.In this episode, Natalie and...2025-05-2015 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: 12 MONTHS (2022)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: 12 MONTHS (2022).Director: Clinton CornwellWritten By: Clinton Cornwell; Elizabeth Hirsch-Tauber; Michael James KellyCast: Elizabeth Hirsch-Tauber; Michael James Kelly; Christopher Mychael WatsonSYNOPSISA hyper-realistic diversion from the usual rom-com, 12 Months candidly portrays moments that are commonly experienced but rarely shown as it follows the story of Ellie and Clark, a millennial couple, navigating the peaks and valleys of...2025-05-1801 min

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First Time GoBen SteinbergWatch This Episode On YouTubeWriter, filmmaker, actor...and activist Ben Steinberg joins me to talk about his campaign to save the Cinerama Dome and his filmmaking, most recently HIKIKOMORI, a surreal short film you have to see to believe.In this episode, Ben and I talk about:how he got decided to get into film and acting;his campaign to save Cinerama Dome in Los Angeles;why should indie filmmakers care about theaters when most films are streamed?;how he made the surreal short HIKIKOMORI (inspired by THE LOBSTER, one of my favorite...2025-05-1613 min

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First Time GoGrace ChinAre you familiar with the Crazy8s competition in British Columbia?Thanks to today’s guest, executive director of the Crazy8s Film Society, Grace Chin, you are now.The event is held in March annually and if you’re able to participate next year, go for it. But as Grace talks about, not everybody gets in. This conversation offers your best roadmap to get crazy in Vancouver next year. In this episode, Grace and I discuss:what is the Crazy8s? "it's still the eight crazy days -- they shoot for 3 days...2025-05-1327 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: TO DUST (2018)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: TO DUST (2018).Director: Shawn SnyderWritten By: Shawn Snyder; Jason BegueCast: Matthew Broderick; Géza RöhrigSYNOPSISA Hasidic cantor in upstate New York, distraught by the untimely death of his wife, befriends a local community college biology professor and the two embark on an increasingly literal undertaking into the underworld.Watch This Episode On Yo...2025-05-1101 min

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First Time GoDaniel LombrosoWatch This Episode On YouTubeIt’s hard to say what’s been the biggest achievement for Daniel over the past few weeks — starting his own studio, Outerboro Films, getting selected as a 2025 Film Independent Documentary Story Lab Fellow, or telling the white supremacist Nick Fuentes that he’s an asshole.Daniel said it’s the latter, but I’m guessing as we look back, it’ll be the first two, as he releases more of his critically acclaimed docs under his own banner. Daniel has made truly extraordinary films, and now he’s put himself in...2025-05-0933 min

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First Time GoJenny Lee-GilmoreWatch LITTLE MISS SLEEPY On YouTubeWatch This Episode On YouTubeAt 21, Jenny Lee-Gilmore was diagnosed with narcolepsy. In her film LITTLE MISS SLEEPY, she explores what it's like to live with a neurological disorder that's misunderstood and often misdiagnosed.In this conversation, we explore how she made that decision to turn one of her most personal life stories into a documentary and what advice she has for other filmmakers.The film recently screened at GEMFest 2025 in Vancouver.In this episode, Jenny and I talk about:what it...2025-05-0618 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: BROKEN FLOWERS (2005)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: BROKEN FLOWERS (2005).Director: Jim JarmuschWritten By: Jim Jarmusch; Bill Raden; Sara DriverCast: Bill Murray; Jessica Lange; Sharon StoneSYNOPSISWhen his latest girlfriend (Julie Delpy) leaves him, retired computer magnate Don Johnston (Bill Murray) has no greater ambition than to sit around the house. When he receives an anonymous letter from a former girlfriend claiming he has...2025-05-0401 min

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First Time GoRoshan SethiWatch This Episode On YouTubeWatch The Trailer Of A Nice Indian BoyPreorder the film, available for streaming on May 6, 2025I can't give this title out often before it becomes meaningless, but the best film I've seen this year is A NICE INDIAN BOY (2024), by director Roshan Sethi. And with SINNERS (2025), it's the hottest story in film right now. Let's talk about why that is with one of the most intelligent and analytic minds in filmmaking: Roshan Sethi.In this episode, Roshan and I talk about:the overwhelming positive...2025-05-0233 min

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First Time GoPeter McDowellBuy Tickets Now For JIMMY IN SAIGON In NYC Through May 1stWatch The Trailer For JIMMY IN SAIGONWatch This Episode On YouTube"Polite persistence" -- that's the story of filmmaker Peter McDowell in so many ways, and it's how he brought the film JIMMY IN SAIGON to movie theaters, through May 1st, 2025 in NYC, and then beyond. He's been at work on the film since 2010, and it throws on its head what you might expect from a Vietnam War documentary.In this episode, we discuss:how he got...2025-04-2920 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: MOBILE HOMES (2017)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: MOBILE HOMES (2017).Director: Vladimir de FontenayWritten By: Vladimir de Fontenay; Danielle LessovitzCast: Imogen Poots; Callum Turner; Frank OultonSYNOPSISA young mother drifts from one motel to the next with her dangerously intoxicating boyfriend and her 8-year-old son. When a crisis tears them apart, the mother finds a mobile home community that provides the possibility of a...2025-04-2701 min

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First Time GoJake RademacherWatch This Episode On YouTubeOne of the things that fascinates me about filmmaking is the concept of authenticity. That is, the filmmakers either have to put in the time to do research for a particular film genre (veterans, ethnic films, etc) or they have to live it. For the new film BROTHERS AFTER WAR, my guest Jake Rademacher lived it. It's in his blood -- literally, as many of his siblings serve in the military -- and he's spent significant time overseas with our deployed soldiers. I felt honored to talk with a director who tells...2025-04-2642 min

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First Time GoAngeline WalshWatch This Episode On YouTube NowGo and listen to THE CORONER'S ASSISTANT, a new show on Tubi by filmmaker Angeline Walsh, and I'll bet you have the theme music caught in your head for the rest of the day (week, month, etc.) Kudos to Angeline for putting music first.The episodic model might look scary, but my guest is here to convince you otherwise -- for her, it was a way to follow her heart.In this episode, we discuss:the ridiculously catchy theme music and how she decided to start...2025-04-2322 min

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First Time GoRachel SuissaWatch This Episode On YouTubePreorder on Apple TV NowIn the beating heart of the most successful independent filmmakers you can find one thing for certain: a belief in oneself. I've hardly ever heard a more powerful defense of one's vision than from filmmaker Rachel Suissa, who is here to talk about her debut indie film, GREEK MOTHERS NEVER DIE (2025).If you want to be inspired by a woman and her vision, this is the episode for you.And don't forget -- preorder her film! Rachel lets us in on...2025-04-1439 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: THE BACHELORS (2017)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 BACHELORS (2017).Director: Kurt VoelkerWritten By: Kurt VoelkerCast: JK Simmons; Josh Wiggins; Odeya RushSYNOPSISAfter the death of his wife, Bill and his 17-year-old son, Wes, move from a small town to a big city for a fresh start. As they begin to adjust to life in the city and seek ways to heal their wounds...2025-04-1301 min

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First Time GoCaitlyn SponheimerWatch This Episode On YouTubeIt takes a really special filmmaker to write, act, direct, produce their debut feature film. Well, let's go to Western Canada to find out in Caitlyn Sponheimer, the dynamo behind the film WILD GOAT SURF (2023), which had its US premiere in the beginning of April.If it was my dream world, it would open in a thousand theaters, but look for it on streaming on May 20th.In this episode, Caitlyn and I discuss:she does everything in her latest film -- acting, directing, writing, producing...2025-04-1131 min

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First Time GoChelsea ChristerWatch This Episode On YouTubeMy guest, Chelsea Christer, is being modest but you can't be just dream adjacent while turning out brilliant, touching, and culturally relevant films like OUT FOR DELIVERY (2025).By premiering the film both at Sundance and SXSW Film Festival this year, it's clear Chelsea is at the top of her game...and closer to dream actualized than ever before.In this episode, we discuss:how she got involved in filmmaking and the rise of female filmmakers, particularly directors;how she chose her path of narrative, docs, corporate work...2025-04-0937 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: 5 YEARS APART (2019)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: FIVE YEARS APART (2019).Director: Joe Angelo MenconiWritten By: Joe Angelo Menconi; Zac KrauseCast: Chloe Bennet; Scott Michael Foster; Ally MakiSYNOPSISTwo estranged brothers born on the same day five years apart run into each other at their family vacation home with wildly different expectations for how their birthday weekend will play out.Watch This...2025-04-0601 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Tanner ChristensenThere's not a person alive who won't be moved by STANDOUT: THE BEN KJAR STORY (2025) -- it's a story of overcoming expectations and spreading kindness into the world. It's also an extraordinary achievement of documentary filmmaking. We get into that and more with director Tanner Christensen.In this episode, Tanner and I discuss:the uplifting qualities of STANDOUT: THE BEN KJAR STORY (2025);what to expect when you watch the film (laughing, crying, feeling better about the state of humanity);the crazy scope of the film, with archival footage from over 25 years ago;the decision-making process of...2025-04-0538 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Camilla JämtingI don't say this lightly: you've never seen a film like PROJECT DAD. It's a Slamdance original from an artist that is making waves throughout Europe and now looking forward to a North American run: Camilla Jämting.What a film. What a story. PROJECT DAD is a film you have to see to believe, and keep up with Camilla so you can see it just as soon as it screening near you.In this episode, Camilla and I talk about:the courage and bravery to create PROJECT DAD;what should people expect to s...2025-03-3119 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: HANK AND ASHA (2013)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: HANK AND ASHA (2013).Director: James E. DuffWritten By: Julia Morrison; James E. DuffCast: Mahira Kakkar; Andrew Pastides; Bianca Butti; Brian SloanSYNOPSISAn Indian woman studying in Prague corresponds with a young filmmaker in New York. As their relationship intensifies, they must choose whether to meet.Watch This Episode On YouTubeSubscribe to...2025-03-3002 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Alex DvorakWatch This Episode On YouTubeOne of one. One of one. One of one. It kept coming back to me that every significant avenue filmmaker Alex Dvorak went into, she was the only one with that path.And that kind of trailblazing requires bravery, vulnerability, and as you see in her film BAD SURVIVOR, a fair bit of snark.Special Slamdance coverage continues with Alex Dvorak.In this episode, we discuss:her completely unique entry into filmmaking...as a cancer survivor;are there more survivor stories out there? "Hard yes"...2025-03-2727 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: BROKEN ENGLISH (2007)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: BROKEN ENGLISH (2007).Director: Zoe CassavetesWritten By: Zoe CassavetesCast: Parker Posey; Melvil Poupaud; Drea de Matteo; Justin Theroux; Peter Bogdanovich; Gena RowlandsSYNOPSISNora Wilder (Parker Posey), a single woman, is heading deep into the doldrums as a result of disappointments in her professional and personal lives. A series of disastrous dates convinces her that love will always...2025-03-2301 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Dave MarkeyI never met or even heard of Bill Bartell before watching this documentary, but darn if filmmaker Dave Markey doesn't bring him to life in his brilliant film, THE SECRET LIVES OF BILL BARTELL. The film is a kaleidoscope of events and people; you'll think it's a mockumentary before realizing that...it's all true.It is a testament to the craft of Dave that he creates such a stunning documentary about a unique subject, and we get into how he's sustained a career in music, punk rock, and documentary. The film had its world premiere at Slamdance 2025.2025-03-2029 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: SAY YOU WILL (2017)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: SAY YOU WILL (2017)Director: Nick NavedaWritten By: Nick NavedaCast: Travis Tope; Katherine Hughes; Israel Broussard; Sam TrammellSYNOPSISAfter his father's suicide, a promising young musician tries to help his mother survive her grief while he tries to find solace in a troubled childhood crush.Watch This Episode On YouTubeSubscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on...2025-03-1601 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Case JerniganWatch This Episode On YouTubeCase Jernigan wins at so many things -- animation, gamemaking, filmmaking, and having without a doubt the best setting for recording a podcast episode. Normally, I edit out all background noise but with the birds chirping, I just could. not. do. it. His sound is such a mood.And I created special podcast animation art to celebrate such a fantastic artist.Case is a true Renaissance man who, not surprisingly, has found himself in Italy, and our discussion demonstrates the sheer breadth of talents that he brings to...2025-03-1527 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Portlynn TagaviWatch This Episode On YouTubeJump into the mosh pit with filmmaker Portlynn Tagavi. We talk about her stunning filmmaking career, animation, Film Independent’s Project Involve, and her brilliant short film, MOSH, which screened at Slamdance this year. In this episode, we talk about:how she got started in filmmaking through animation;the difference in directing animation vs. life action ("the whole concept of talking to actors still freaks me out");what the AFI Conservatory MFA Directing program is like;the importance of going into a room and acknowledging that you are still lea...2025-03-1147 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: CASHBACK (2006)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: CASHBACK (2006).Director: Sean EllisWritten By: Sean EllisCast: Sean Biggerstaff; Emilia Fox; Michelle RyanSYNOPSISSophia's comfortable life turns upside down the day she meets Sylvain, and she leaves everything for a new, burning passion.Watch This Episode On YouTubeSubscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us on InstagramFollow us...2025-03-0901 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Ntare Guma Mbaho MwineWatch This Episode On YouTubeNtare Guma Mbaho Mwine is an accomplished actor, director, and documentary filmmaker, and so it's no surprise that his film, MEMORIES OF LOVE RETURNED (2024), is a love letter to the arts. It's also a love letter about Uganda, and offers a deeply personal look at his experience in the country and that of photographer Kibaate Aloysius Ssalongo.In this episode, we discuss:how he got started in filmmaking and if he has a preference between acting and directing;how his knowledge of directing affected his acting "for years";what...2025-03-0824 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Aisha AminWatch This Episode On YouTubeI couldn't have loved CONTOURS (2025) more, Aisha Amin's film which screened at Slamdance, and that bled through into the conversation. The story is brilliantly written, wonderfully acted, and gorgeously shot, so it's no surprise Aisha is such a fascinating guest for the podcast.She comes to filmmaking from the perspective of a Pakistani-American filmmaker and it is clear she will continue to push boundaries of what's possible in independent filmmaking.In this episode, we talk about:how you decide to put a twist into a short film...2025-03-0438 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Nick BeaulieuWatch This Episode On YouTubeThe needle-threading to make a great political documentary, a brilliant social commentary about a Midwestern city, and a deeply personal story is truly breathtaking. But Nick Beaulieu delivers with MY OMAHA (2025), a film about a father, a son, and a city in Nebraska that will be viewed as a bellwether of our times for years to follow.In this episode, we discuss:how he got started as a filmmaker -- he went out to LA to "do anything" but came back to Omaha as a documentarian;what people should...2025-03-0120 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Birdy Wei-Ting HungWatch This Episode On YouTubeThis is as close as I've ever been to going Joe Rogan style, four hour interview.I've never talked with someone so willing to discuss the history of cinema (in this case, Taiwanese) than my guest today, Birdy Wei-Ting Hung. She directed the brilliant film, A BRIGHTER SUMMER DAY FOR THE LADY AVENGERS (2024), which screened at Slamdance.In order to make the film, she drew on years of reading history and watching cinema. If you loved school, or even if you didn't, prepare for the best class ever...2025-02-2840 min

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First Time GoSpecial Slamdance Coverage: Woody BessWatch Now On YouTubeMy guest, Woody Bess, makes it sound happenstance, but don't kid yourself: Keith David and Richard Kind aren't signing up for just any independent film. But if you've extremely talented and put your heart and soul into a film -- and the script is great -- well, they will, and you've got PORTAL TO HELL (2025), which debuted at Slamdance. Glad Woody didn't go in the portal, and he joined me to discuss this riveting horror comedy feature.In this episode, we discuss:how he took so many jobs on PORTAL...2025-02-2618 min

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First Time GoHello, Slamdance!Hello, Slamdance! Be on the lookout for episodes coming out every day for the next few weeks. with 2025 Slamdance directors.It is one of the most diverse lineups with often debut filmmakers so of course the pod will be highlighting the creators.Thanks for helping filmmakers get their first time go.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/first-time-go/exclusive-content 2025-02-2401 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: THE NATURE OF LOVE (2023)Watch This 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 NATURE OF LOVE (2023).Director: Monia ChokriWritten By: Monia ChokriCast: Magalie Lépine Blondeau; Pierre-Yves Cardinal; Francis-William Rheaume; Steve LaplanteSYNOPSISSophia's comfortable life turns upside down the day she meets Sylvain, and she leaves everything for a new, burning passion.Subscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on LetterboxdFollow us o...2025-02-2201 min

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First Time GoKyle HenryWatch This Episode On YouTubeWhat do you get by matching "a former Marine Corps drill instructor and an elementary arts educator"? A fantastic filmmaker in Kyle Henry. Kyle teaches film production at Northwestern University and has made both narrative and docs films to the acclaim of the Independent Spirit Awards and other film festivals. He's back with his newest film, TIME PASSAGES, which is one of the most unique documentaries you'll ever see.In this episode, we discuss:how TIME PASSAGES is graduate level doc filmmaking -- how was he able to pull...2025-02-1923 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: BROADCAST NEWS (1987)Watch This On YouTubeEvery Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: BROADCAST NEWS (1987).Director: James L BrooksScreenplay: James L BrooksCast: Holly Hunter; William Hurt; Albert BrooksSYNOPSISA highly strung news producer finds herself strangely attracted to a vapid anchorman even through she loathes everything he personifies. To make matters worse, her best friend, a talented but not particularly telegenic news reporter, is secretly in love with her.2025-02-1601 min

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First Time GoMatt McClungWatch This Episode On YouTubeStream INHABITANTS (2025) NowThere's no more fertile ground for indie filmmakers than horror, and for a few extremely talented directors like my guest Matt McClung, you can even exceed expectations of the genre with a film like INHABITANTS (2025). The film tells the tale of a young woman who moves in with her lapsed Catholic boyfriend, only to discover...uh oh.In this episode, we discuss:how he got started in filmmaking;the benefit of film school -- he says the relationships were the most beneficial part;why...2025-02-1431 min

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First Time GoJeff ManWatch This Episode On YouTubeAttend A Screening Of PAPER MARRIAGE in Washington, DCTo paraphrase Walt Whitman, Jeff Man is a man that contains multitudes. He often plays a character, like in PAPER MARRIAGE (2024) and SANTA CLAUS (2017), that is reserved and unsure of himself, and the stories, at least partially, revolve around how he -- and the outside world -- reacts to those personality traits. During our conversation, he talks about how he grapples with these questions in his own life and utilizes his art to get to a greater truth.And...2025-02-1134 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: ONCE AGAIN (2019)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: ONCE AGAIN (2019). The film is also on streamers as "una vez más."Director: Guillermo RojasWritten By: Guillermo Rojas; Kevin Dániel di AngeloCast: Silvia Acosta; Teresa Arboi; Beatriz ArjonaSYNOPSISAbril left Daniel behind 5 years ago, when she decided to try her luck in London. She is back home now, to bury her grandmother. Walking the streets of what was her home with th...2025-02-0901 min

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First Time GoLauren DenemarkMusic is one of the most important parts of filmmaking and yet it's often left to the last minute or shortchanged; the dynamic Lauren Denemark and her company, Triple Threat Music Supervision, is aiming to change that for indie filmmakers.In this episode, we talk about:how she got her start in music supervision;the challenges of taking on "favors" when starting a company;when to call Triple Threat for work on a film;what the career path for composers looks like in indie film;her thoughts on getting music from subscription services;her work with...2025-02-0427 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: BABYSITTER (2022)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: BABYSITTER (2022).Director: Monia ChokrisdWritten By: Catherine LégerCast: Pierre-Marcel Blanchot; Fabrice Lambot; Catherine Leger; Martin Paul-HusSYNOPSISAfter a sexist joke goes viral, Cédric loses his job and embarks on a therapeutic journey. When he and his girlfriend hire a mysterious and liberated babysitter to help shake things up, everything seems too good to be true.Watch This On YouTube...2025-02-0201 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: AFTER EVERYTHING (2018)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: AFTER EVERYTHING (2018).Director: Joey Power; Hannah MarksScreenplay: Joey Power; Hannah MarksCast: Jeremy Allen White; Maika MonroeSYNOPSISElliot is a young and carefree New Yorker whose world gets turned upside down when he finds out that he has cancer. He soon finds comfort and happiness when he falls in love with Mia, a woman who sticks with him through the hard times.2025-01-2701 min

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First Time GoMarc IserlisThe motto of the podcast is the future of filmmaking -- well, this is it. I'm joined by Marc Iserlis, head of film at Republic.When you find out about Marc Iserlis' job in finance and film, you might make certain initial assumptions. Those would be wrong -- about nearly everything. Globally knowledgable, intellectually curious, Marc turns on its head what you might expect, and maybe that's why his work as Head of Film @ Republic is so innovative.In this episode, we talk about:how he successfully used that international background to enter filmmaking...2025-01-2129 min

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First Time GoThe Rise Of Rise Flix"Let's make a market for independent and student films" -- it sounds like an impossible dream, doesn't it? Not for the founders of Rise Flix. In this episode, I talk with Edouard Larouche, Ahmad Baqer, and Ralph Calle-Schulz about their new company, Rise Flix. Over the past year, it's burst on the indie film scene, hosting events in both New York and Los Angeles, and streaming dozens of films, all in the hopes of achieving the impossible dream: monetizing truly independent films and filmmakers.In this episode, we discuss:how the three founders met and got...2025-01-1735 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: LISTEN UP PHILIP (2014)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: LISTEN UP PHILIP (2014).Director: Alex Ross PerryScreenplay: Alex Ross PerryCast: Jason Schwartzman; Elisabeth Moss; Jonathan PryceSYNOPSISAfter refusing to promote his eagerly awaited second novel, a self-absorbed writer (Jason Schwartzman) takes up residence at the home of his literary idol (Jonathan Pryce).Watch This On YouTubeSubscribe to our YouTube channelFollow us on Letterboxd...2025-01-1201 min

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First Time GoCorey ShermanThe Independent Spirit John Cassevetes Award is, for me, the best film award an indie film can get. It's for independent feature films made under $1 million dollars. And we can discuss, as I do with my guest Corey Sherman on the show, whether that's 1 mill is a great arbiter, but it's the best one we have. And here we are, with one of the nominees, ultra-talented filmmaker Corey Sherman.He's here to talk BIG BOYS, his debut feature, and so much more.In this episode, we discuss:the almost universal praise for BIG BOYS...2025-01-1024 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: THE HOLDOVERS (2023)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: THE HOLDOVERS (2023).Director: Alexander PayneScreenplay: David HemingsonCast: Paul Giamatti; Dominic Sessa; Carrie Preston; Brady HepnerSYNOPSISA curmudgeonly instructor at a New England prep school remains on campus during Christmas break to babysit a handful of students with nowhere to go. He soon forms an unlikely bond with a brainy but damaged troublemaker, and with the school's head cook, a woman who just lost...2025-01-0602 min

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First Time GoIbrahim Nash'at (Welcome Back!)Watch This Episode On YouTubeSeason three opens with a powerful return to the show of Ibrahim Nash'at, the multi-award-winning Egyptian documentary filmmaker whose film, HOLLYWOODGATE, is shortlisted for the 2025 Oscars in best documentary feature.In this episode, we talk about:his confidence that this is where his film would wind up and how that belief helped him during filming with the Taliban in Afghanistan;the story behind the amazing tale of HOLLYWOODGATE;the meaning behind how he powerfully closes the film and his limited narration;where people can watch HOLLYWOODGATE, now streaming through...2025-01-0324 min

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First Time GoLisa TrifoneHappy holidays! We wrap up season two with Lisa Trifone, a multitalented woman who founded Bright Iris Film Co. No matter what angle you come at indie films, Lisa has it covered. Several of the films highlighted on the pod came from work Lisa did, and as I mention in the episode, I knew that they'd be good because an email came from Lisa Trifone and Bright Iris. I thought she'd be reluctant to share her secrets -- she's not! Here they all are.In this episode, we talk about:how an indie film marketing company...2024-12-2738 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: LONG DECEMBER (2023)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: LONG DECEMBER (2023).Director: Thomas TorreyWriter: Thomas TorreyCast: Stephen Williams; Emily Althaus; Charley KoontzSYNOPSISNearing the end of another financially difficult year and feeling pressured to finally give up on his dreams, struggling musician Gabe Lovell wonders if his break is just around the corner when his rock star cousin offers him a spot in the final show of his tour.Watch...2024-12-2202 min

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First Time GoMira ShaibI am so pleased to be joined by groundbreaking filmmaker Mira Shaib, director of Arzé, a brilliant first feature comedy-drama about the relationship of a family in Lebanon. (In North America, it should be released early next year.)Mira Shaib is an alumnus of prestigious film development labs and residencies, including Robert Bosch Stiftung, where she attended the Film Academy Baden-Württemberg, Film Independent's Global Media Makers LA Residency, the Red Sea Lodge, and the Torino Film Lab. Her first feature film was among the first recipients of the Red Sea Film Festival Foundation Production Fund. Mira is...2024-12-1143 min

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First Time GoAdam KinyonGratitude is the operative word with filmmaker Adam Kinyon, founder of Best Dressed Films and producing two independent features in 2024. How do you get your short made? What's the state of play for producers in independent film? If you're an indie director looking for a producer or a producer looking for a director, this episode is for you.In this episode, we talk about:how Adam got started and the importance of mentorship;the importance of "relentless positivity". how he takes that attitude into his work, and it keeps him working constantly;what he's working on...2024-12-0728 min

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First Time GoLaw ChenHappy Veterans Day! Sign up for a $1 membership to Film IndependentIf there's a more innovative, surprising, enjoyable, and fun documentary than STARRING JERRY AS HIMSELF (2023), I haven't seen it this year. It's no surprise all those attributes could be used to describe my conversation with its director, Law Chen.In this episode, we discuss:how he got involved in filmmaking as a combination of growing up in China and the United States;how life in China influenced him today;how the intersection of filmmaking and advertising provides him a "cheat code" for making...2024-11-1232 min

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First Time GoWard KamelWatch This Episode On YouTubeThere's something so inspiring about a filmmaker who has a million different reasons for why he shouldn't be selected for this fellowship or that school, but goes forward boldly, anyway, and stays humble about it.And also a guy who would love the opportunity to teach at his film school -- NYU -- but I completely believe him when he says that he would quit if it got in the way of his feature filmmaking.That's the story of my guest, filmmaker Ward Kamel.Most recently...2024-11-011h 12

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First Time GoMatthew HeinemanThere is no other filmmaker working today that personifies being the "man in the arena", as Theodore Roosevelt so eloquently put it, than Matthew Heineman. His films have ranged from the frontlines of wars to the sweet and touching portrayal of Jon Batiste in AMERICAN SYMPHONY (2023). Just making one such film could be a career pinnacle -- Matthew has directed 14 wholly original, extraordinary special artistic contributions to the medium -- and he's here to share the details.In this episode, we discuss:you don't just walk onto the stage of Radio City Music Hall, in a...2024-10-1532 min

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First Time GoHoku Uchiyama (Re-Release)Welcome to spooky season in this re-release of my conversation with filmmaker Hoku Uchiyama.Published last year while he was crowdfunding for WHITCH, we talk about:his filmmaking in the Bay Area starting when he was around 10;his new project, a horror comedy short;his fantastic team and whether you could put together such a cool group of people if you were a horrible person (his answer: probably not);behavior standards in indie film, the constraints and excitements of a five minute project, and more.Links:Hoku Uchiyama's WebsiteHoku Uchiyama's...2024-10-0521 min

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First Time GoVladan NikolićBe prepared to get a bill from The New School after this episode -- it's an hour with Vlad Nikolić, dean of the School of Media Studies at The New School.In this episode we talk about:how he got started in filmmaking and his advice for new students ("make something every day"; "watch films every day");what the average day is like as dean of media studies at The New School;can all indie filmmakers be teachers?how does he feel about gen z as filmmakers? he talks about the ethos of The New School;w...2024-09-3058 min

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First Time GoRoss McDonnell (Re-Release)This is a re-release of my discussion with Ross McDonnell. His film, SWIFT JUSTICE, is up for a News & Doc Emmy in Outstanding Cinematography: Documentary. The awards will be revealed live on September 26, 2024.Ross died on November 5, 2023. His co-director, Victor Blue, writes movingly about his work. Later on this year, I'll post an episode remembering Ross and the legacy of independent filmmakers.In this episode, I talk with Ross McDonnell, co-director of the new documentary short, SWIFT JUSTICE, about Sharia justice in Afghanistan.Ross and I discuss:how he got started in...2024-09-2524 min

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First Time GoChristian KamaalYou can see the artistic talent of Christian Kamaal in the vivid way he describes his life -- he borrowed a camera from his father, who used it to film funerals for his community ("unfortunately, in the city I come from, a lot of funerals"); his power of observation earned him a spot at USC's film school; and he utilized his power of observation, of visual artistry, to make BLACKIFIER, a powerful short that hits you with more thoughts about our world than most features. And that's only half of it. In this episode,we talk about the...2024-09-0341 min

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First Time GoSo Young Shelly YoThis is what you have to give to be successful in indie films: everything.I'm so proud to share my conversation with So Young Shelly Yo at the start of her Los Angeles theatrical run with SMOKING TIGERS. The film won the AT&T Tribeca "Untold Stories" competition in 2022 and after it screens in LA, it will stream on MAX starting August 23, 2024. Expect it to show up in indie awards season.In this episode, we talk about how she got started in film; the deeply personal nature of SMOKING TIGERS; what it's like to be...2024-08-1528 min

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First Time GoHyejin "Grace" ParkFilmmaker Hyejin "Grace" Park has such incredible range as an indie filmmaker: she's directed everything from sci-fi to gangster films and made them her own in a way that's utterly enchanting and unique. Her Vimeo page is a testament to her range as a filmmaker.In this episode, we discuss how she got started in filmmaking; her goal of making sure minority filmmakers feel seen; how life experiences have made her a better filmmaker; the depth of the story behind her genre-breaking film COMET ORPHAN; what made her decide to use Seed & Spark for the film ("we...2024-08-0623 min

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First Time GoScott Monahan (Re-Release)Go buy ANCHORAGE on VHS NowI’m re-releasing one of my favorite episodes of the pod, my conversation with Scott Monahan, director of ANCHORAGE.Until July 18th, you can vote for ANCHORAGE on Decentralized Pictures — here's the link — and their team can win $2500 for their next project.Given that this is one of my favorite episodes, and one of my favorite dudes, how could I not re-release to support?So go vote for ANCHORAGE now. (This is assuming you've seen this great indie film. If you haven't, what are you waitin...2024-07-091h 06

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First Time GoMadeline McLaughlinThere's something so inspiring about somebody who knows how the system is supposed to work and says, nah, I'm doing it my way anyway. That's Madeline McLaughlin, who is currently crowdfunding for her debut feature, NOT A GOOD PERSON.I know Todd Brown said a few episodes ago, specifically, don't mortgage your house to make your indie film, but I kind of want to get this made?In this podcast, we talk about:2:29 Friendship breakups?3:43 How did she get involved in filmmaking?4:27 She came from a theater family.2024-03-0536 min

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First Time GoBridge StuartA FANTASTIC RELATIONSHIP is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime. Go watch it! And come back and listen to this episode from 2024. Step 1. Listen to this episode.Step 2. Buy passes to the Sedona International Film Festival (https://sedonafilmfestival.com/)Step 3. Buy plane tickets, train tickets...BUS tickets?! to Sedona.Step 4. Watch A FANTASTIC RELATIONSHIP on February 25th, the film's world premiere.I'm joined today by the film's director, writer, actor, comedian, former YouTube star, man of infamy, not obscurity, relative or otherwise, Bridge Stuart.In this...2024-02-2037 min

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First Time GoMatthew BarenI talk with Matthew Baren, Creative Director of LP Films, about the struggles and ultimate triumph of Michelle Garnaut in creating M ON THE BUND, a restaurant in Shanghai. He’s speaking about a documentary of the same name currently raising money on Kickstarter. The film is directed by Luo Tong.My discussion with Matthew comes across as an amazing story of female empowerment universally, whether it’s in Australia, Hong Kong, or Shanghai. We discuss what life is like for Chinese filmmakers; the wildly original M ON THE BUND documentary, why the team chose Kickstarter over othe...2023-10-3136 min

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First Time GoIndie Film Highlight: RED ROCKET (2021)Every Sunday, I'll post a quick video -- and podcast -- about an indie film from at least a year ago. Today's film: RED ROCKET (2021).Director: Sean BakerWriters: Chris Bergoch, Sean BakerCast: Simon Rex, Bree Elrod, Suzanna SonSYNOPSISMikey Saber -- charismatic con man and washed-up porn star -- plots his return to the big time from small-town Texas in this story of an American hustler and a hometown that barely tolerates him.aten to burn the tower down if the developer does not pay their wa...2023-10-2903 min

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First Time GoDaniel BrownI talk with Daniel Brown, director of YOUR LUCKY DAY, arriving in theaters November 10th.We talk about the amazing work of Angus Cloud; the wild story of turning down people who wanted to make the film into a feature 13 years ago; the shorts v. feature debate (of course); the virtue of quick run-times for marriages; what indie filmmakers should do for their second act; and how this wonderful feature came to life. What a story he has to tell.Daniel's Indie Film Director & Highlight: Satoshi Kon; Korean filmLinks:YOUR...2023-10-2042 min

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First Time GoAlexandra SimpsonI talk with Alexandra Simpson, a French-American indie film director. Recently, she successfully crowdfunded for No Sleep Till, a feature film with the logline of "in a small Florida town menaced by a pending hurricane, a few feel compelled to stay." Her promotional video shows a wealth of knowledge of the craft, and her vision is an important lens to view the American experience in the midst of climate change. We discuss directors she's admired (Brian DePalma, Ingmar Bergman), romcoms, crowdfunding in more remote places, and the indie film scene in Paris. She's a unique voice in a...2023-09-0518 min

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First Time GoWendy CornDid you know burial and cremation are both bad for the environment? That bartending may be the best training for documentary filmmaking? What about death haikus?I talk to Wendy Corn about her new film, Exit Strategy: From Scared to Sacred, which recently raised over $34,000 as part of a successful crowdfunding campaign on Seed & Spark. Wendy is an award-winning documentary filmmaker whose films have been featured at SXSW and other festivals. She gives advice to filmmakers, talks about why Austin is a great home for indies, and shares the level of commitment -- and vulnerability -- it...2023-07-1916 min