Shows
The Film Situation069 - Remembering Rob ReinerZef is joined by producer Heather Buckley and intern Cole Howard for a heartfelt tribute to cinema of Rob Reiner. They revisit his legendary range; STAND BY ME, MISERY, THE PRINCESS BRIDE, THIS IS SPINAL TAP, WHEN HARRY MET SALLY…, and A FEW GOOD MEN and reflect on why his movies feel like childhood, why they’re endlessly quotable, and what his work taught us about story, character, and craft.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2025-12-1953 minThe Film Situation068 - Vance Howard - Producer SXSW award winner LUV YA BUM!Vance Howard is a producer and CEO of Lucky Number 8 Productions. He produced the documentary LUV YA, BUM!, which won the Audience Award for Documentary Spotlight at SXSW 2025. In this conversation, we talk about his move from business into filmmaking, what drew him to the story of Bum Phillips, and how leadership, mentorship, and conviction translate from the football field to the world of film producing.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2025-12-1555 minThe Film Situation067 - Gregg Blake - The Indie Film BreakdownEpisode 67 features my good friend and collaborator Gregg Blake (Writer, Director, Actor), who recently wrapped production on his debut feature film SOUVENIR in Atlanta. I helped produce the film, and this episode is our first time breaking down the experience from the emotional core of the story to Gregg’s creative plan to rotoscope the film.
We talk about working with actors, the energy of the set, the community painting everyone contributed to, and what it really feels like to direct a feature from your own home studio. We also dive into the current state of filmmaking, th...
2025-12-091h 13The Film Situation066 - Diana Porter: Crafting Near-Future CinemaIn Episode 66, We welcome Diana Porter, who has more than 50 IMDb acting credits and a growing footprint in the sci-fi thriller space. We talk about her newest short film, THE REWIND, which she co-wrote, co-directed, and stars in. Diana walks me through the film’s concept, the emotional core of the story, the production design choices, and what it’s like balancing acting and directing on the same project.
We also get into her path from analyst to working actor, her unexpected stunt-double experience for Christina Hendricks, the festival she founded in Massachusetts, and her creative partnership with...
2025-12-051h 01The Film Situation065 - "ARTFULLY UNITED" Mike Norice & Christopher WaltersIn this moving and wide-ranging conversation, filmmaker Zef Cota sits down with Los Angeles muralist Mike Norice, the subject of the new documentary Artfully United, and producer Chris Walters, to explore how art, activism, and faith intertwine to heal communities.
From the streets of Watts and South L.A. to the Cannes Film Festival, Mike’s story is one of transformation and resilience. Known for his striking black and white murals bearing single words like HOPE, LOVE, and FORGIVENESS, Norice shares how each wall becomes a pulpit and each neighborhood a congregation. Together with Walters, he reflects on...
2025-10-181h 06The Film Situation064 - Jamieson Shea - ProducerIn this episode, Zef sits down with producer Jamieson Shea, whose recent projects range from heartfelt indie drama to star-studded comedy. Zef first met Jamieson at the YoFi Fest in New York during the premiere of MERRY GOOD ENOUGH, and since then Jamieson has gone on to produce BOLIO: Spirit of the Mustang — directed by Jim Issa, starring Eugene Cordero and Gabriel Hogan, with Tony Shalhoub, Brooke Adams, and Kevin Heffernan of Broken Lizard on board as executive producers.
Together they dive into Jamieson’s journey into producing, the challenges and triumphs of bringing MERRY GOOD ENOUGH and...
2025-09-081h 01The Film Situation063 - Erin Áine & Kyle Valle - ZOMBIECON vol 1Filmmaking partners Erin Áine and Kyle Valle join the podcast to discuss their brand-new indie film ZOMBIE CON VOL. 1. Kyle directed the film and Erin stars as the lead actress.
It is a wild zombie apocalypse ride that begins with four friends on their way home from a cosplay convention only to discover that the end of the world has arrived right outside the convention doors.
We talk about how they pulled off this inventive indie, the challenges of blending horror with comedy, and what it was like making a zombie film with a tight-knit c...
2025-08-311h 03The Film Situation062 - Kiira Benz - XR Storyteller & FilmmakerKiira Benz, a filmmaker, theatre director, and pioneer in immersive storytelling. She has been working in the XR space for the last decade, pushing boundaries at the intersection of film, theatre, and virtual reality.
Kiira is the founder of Double Eye Studios, the award-winning creative XR studio behind Finding Pandora X, which became the first VR theatre production to win a Lion at the Venice International Film Festival. She has directed acclaimed immersive projects including Territory, Runnin’, Loveseat, and Cardboard City, and she was the first VR director to film on the Intel Studios volumetric capture stage. He...
2025-08-131h 13The Film Situation061 - Michael Hoad - Director & Fight Choreographer, A WOMAN SCORNEDIn this episode, I sit down with British filmmaker, fight choreographer, and martial artist Michael Hoad, co-director of the new indie action-thriller A WOMAN SCORNED. We talk about how Michael went from training at Carlson Gracie to working on a Guy Ritchie set, and how martial arts opened the door to his directing career. We dig into the making of A WOMAN SCORNED—from the co-directing process to weapon-heavy night shoots and choreographing complex action without stunt doubles.
Michael shares why BJJ isn’t always camera-friendly, what it was like editing his own fight scenes, and the logi...
2025-07-081h 03The Film Situation060 - Scott DuPont - Producer - "How to Actually Raise Money for Your Indie Film"In this episode, we sit down in-person with producer and film finance expert Scott DuPont out in Los Angeles. I first discovered Scott through the documentary MOVIE MONEY CONFIDENTIAL (directed by Rick Pamplin) , and he also runs a great podcast called Finance Your Movie. He’s raised millions of dollars for indie films and has been in the game for a long time...but what really stands out is how practical and down-to-earth his approach is.
We talk about how he raised a million bucks for his first feature back in the '90s, what it was li...
2025-06-191h 00The Film Situation059 - Louise Levison - The Finance Architect Behind THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECTLouise Levison is the undisputed queen of indie film business plans—and in this episode, she breaks down how to actually raise money for your movie. Best known for crafting the business plan that launched The Blair Witch Project, Louise has helped independent filmmakers secure financing for decades. We talk about what investors really care about, how to position your project for success, and the biggest mistakes first-time filmmakers make when chasing funds. Whether you're planning your first feature or looking to level up your producing game, this episode is packed with gold.
Hosted by Zef...
2025-05-2157 minThe Film Situation058 - Dante Spinotti - Cinematographer (HEAT, L.A. CONFIDENTIAL, THE ALTO KNIGHTS)Throwback episode -- originally recorded for GlobeScreen in 2023:
Legendary cinematographer Dante Spinotti (HEAT, L.A. CONFIDENTIAL, THE INSIDER) joins us for a rare and intimate conversation. We dive into his collaborations with directors like Michael Mann and Curtis Hanson, explore the making of iconic films, and hear behind-the-scenes stories—from lighting the climactic airport scene in HEAT to shooting ALTO KNIGHTS with Robert De Niro in dual roles.
Spinotti also shares insights on digital vs. film, working with actors, and advice for young DPs trying to break in. A must-listen for anyone who loves the ar...
2025-04-0850 minThe Film Situation057 - Julian Biba : Festival Director, Producer, StorytellerOn this episode of The Film Situation, host Zef Cota sits down with Julian Biba—a filmmaker, producer, novelist, and director of the NY True Venture Film Festival—to discuss his unconventional journey into filmmaking. From his early days as a bodyguard to finding himself at the Cannes Film Festival with his first short film, Julian shares how his real-life experiences have shaped his storytelling across film, literature, and festival programming.
Plus, Julian and Zef break down two of his favorite movie scenes:
THE BOURNE IDENTITY (2002) & Tony Scott's MAN ON FIRE (2004).
@julianbiba
Host...
2025-02-2855 minThe Film Situation056- Kubrick: An Odyssey with Nathan Abrams & Robert P. KolkerIn this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with acclaimed Stanley Kubrick biographers Nathan Abrams and Robert P. Kolker, co-authors of KUBRICK: AN ODYSSEY, to explore the genius of one of cinema’s most enigmatic directors.
From the Bronx to London, Stanley Kubrick’s legacy continues to fascinate and influence filmmakers and cinephiles alike. We dive deep into his obsessive attention to detail, behind-the-scenes stories from his most iconic films, and what made him such a singular force in cinema history.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2025-02-1150 minThe Film Situation055 - Kubrick: An Odyssey with Nathan Abrams & Robert P. KolkerIn this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with acclaimed film scholars Nathan Abrams and Robert P. Kolker, co-authors of KUBRICK: AN ODYSSEY, to explore the genius of one of cinema’s most enigmatic directors.
From the Bronx to London, Stanley Kubrick’s legacy continues to fascinate and influence filmmakers and cinephiles alike. We dive deep into his obsessive attention to detail, behind-the-scenes stories from his most iconic films, and what made him such a singular force in cinema history.
2025-02-0851 minThe Film Situation055 - JoeBill Muñoz and Lucas Guilkey - THE STRIKEOn this episode of The Film Situation, I sit down with documentary filmmakers JoeBill Muñoz and Lucas Guilkey to discuss their powerful PBS documentary THE STRIKE. The film tells the gripping story of a historic 30,000-person hunger strike inside California’s prison system—an act of mass resistance that exposed the brutal reality of long-term solitary confinement.
We dive into how JoeBill and Lucas first met, the years-long process of making the film, and the incredible resilience of the men who organized the strike. They also share the challenges of visually telling a story set largely withi...
2025-02-0353 minThe Film Situation054 - Tom Chaves – From Gaffer to DP & The Future of CinematographyOn this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with gaffer-turned-DP Tom Chaves to discuss his 15-year journey in the industry, the challenges of transitioning from lighting to camera, and the harsh realities of being pigeonholed in the film business. Tom shares insights on AI’s growing impact on cinematography, the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking, and his own experiences working on everything from music videos to micro-budget features to high-end commercial gigs.
We also dive into his deep love for cinema and discuss scenes from the Brazilian film CITY OF GOD and Tony Kaye's AMERICAN HI...
2025-01-301h 18The Film Situation053- 2025 Oscar noms & THE BRUTALISTDiscussion between Jon Difilippo & Zef Cota about the 2025 Academy Award nominated films.
Warning there may be spoilers!
2025-01-2647 minThe Film Situation052 - A Tribute to David Lynch (r.i.p.)In this special emergency episode of THE FILM SITUATION, we pay tribute to the life and work of legendary filmmaker David Lynch, who has profoundly influenced the world of cinema.
David Lynch’s films, from BLUE VELVET to TWIN PEAKS, have captivated audiences with their unique blend of surrealism, haunting visuals, and complex storytelling. In this episode, we reflect on his unmatched contributions to film and explore the lasting impact of his art and philosophy.
Zef Cota co-hosts with Alex Gray, and guest Heather Buckley who share their experiences and thoughts on Lynch’s work, his p...
2025-01-1754 minThe Film Situation051 - Catherine Marie Thomas - Costume DesignerIn this episode we sit down with acclaimed costume designer Catherine Marie Thomas to explore her storied career. Known for her work on iconic films like KILL BILL, GREY GARDENS, THE PROPOSAL, and the Netflix hit LEAVE THE WORLD BEHIND, Catherine shares fascinating insights into the art of costume design.
From her unconventional start at Juilliard to collaborating with legendary directors like Quentin Tarantino and Robert Altman, Catherine discusses her creative process, memorable projects, and the challenges of designing for both film and television. We also dive into two of her favorite movie scenes: the unforgettable showdown...
2025-01-0857 minThe Film Situation050 - Bill Fishman - Film DirectorIn this episode, Zef Cota welcomes acclaimed filmmaker Bill Fishman, director of the cult classic TAPE HEADS and numerous iconic music videos for bands like the Ramones and Counting Crows. Bill dives into the making of his latest project, WALTZING WITH BRANDO, a fascinating biopic starring Billy Zane as the legendary Marlon Brando.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tahiti, the film explores Brando's ambitious dream to build an eco-friendly resort on a remote island, based on the memoir of architect Bernard Judge. Bill shares insights into casting Billy Zane, the creative process behind capturing Brando’s es...
2024-12-301h 10The Film Situation049 - Claire McKey Berkman - Writer & DirectorIn this episode we sit down with the multifaceted Claire McKey Berkman to discuss her dynamic career spanning TV, theater, film, and web content. From her beginnings in creative writing and theater at Pitzer College to working in tv and film production in Los Angeles, Claire has embraced every aspect of storytelling. After moving to London to earn her MFA in Advanced Theatre Practice at the prestigious Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, she pushed the boundaries of her craft by writing and producing an immersive musical.
Claire shares insights into the power of collaboration, the...
2024-12-231h 04The Film Situation048 - Matthew Canada - CinematographerIn this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with NYC based cinematographer Matthew Canada to explore his unique journey from studying jazz theory at a music conservatory to crafting breathtaking visuals for narrative films and cinematic commercials. Matthew shares how his diverse life experiences, including earning a degree in marketing, have shaped his artistic approach to cinematography, where art and science seamlessly merge.
We dive into his early days filming music videos in New York City, his passion for narrative storytelling, and how he uses framing, lighting, and subtext to enhance story and character. Matthew...
2024-12-221h 00The Film Situation047 - Emmet Loverde - FilmmakerIn this episode of The Film Situation, Zef Cota chats with Emmet Loverde, a multi-talented writer, director, and producer whose work spans stage, screen, radio, and beyond. With over 200 productions of his stage plays mounted worldwide, Emmet shares his insights into crafting stories that captivate audiences across mediums.
From his feature films like SHE'S OUT OF HIS MIND and BEAUTY, BRAINS, AND PERSONALITY to his acclaimed radio adaptations of THE MOON MAID and THE KILLIST, Emmet’s creative output is nothing short of prolific. We’ll also discuss his latest project, the upcoming horror film WITHOUT A NAME...
2024-12-191h 04The Film Situation046 - Joshua Holz - FilmmakerJoshua Holz is a filmmaker based in New York. He has directed and edited films featured in MovieMaker Magazine's Top 50 Festivals, W.W. Norton & Company, Interview Magazine, and has worked on films and productions worldwide. His graduate film thesis, Another Night (2023) was awarded the Made in NY Grant. He developed his feature script Vera about his great-grandmother for script labs and pre-production in Texas.
2024-12-081h 08The Film Situation045 - George Beno - ProducerIn this episode, we’re joined by George Beno, a New York-based film producer whose impressive credits include co-producing Josh Mond’s IT DOESN’T MATTER, starring Christopher Abbott and Jay Will, which premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, and Rachel Wolther’s THE FRENCH ITALIAN, featured at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival.
Beyond producing, George brings a wealth of experience in location management, having worked on major productions like JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX (2024) and INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR (2023).
We dive into some of George’s favorite film moments, including Gaspar Noé’s CLIMAX (2018), David Fincher’s GONE GIRL (2014...
2024-11-2656 minThe Film Situation044 - Kent Sanderson - President of Bleecker StreetKent Sanderson is the President of Bleecker Street Media. Recently, they've released films such as RUMOURS (2024) with Cate Blanchett, SASQUATCH SUNSET (2024) with Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough, and TREASURE (2024) with Lena Dunham and Stephen Fry.
Kent also served as Executive Producer on other Bleecker releases, including THE ART OF SELF-DEFENSE (2019), starring Jesse Eisenberg and Alessandro Nivola, as well as the upcoming Mike Leigh film HARD TRUTHS, which premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and the 2024 New York Film Festival.
We discussed the world of independent cinema and the business of filmmaking, along with Bleecker S...
2024-10-2854 minThe Film Situation043 - Throwback - Bobby Perreti THE THIRD MAN & VERTIGOIn this episode, Zef sits down with Bobby Perretti, founder of Wheelhouse Films and an emerging filmmaker who began his journey studying screenwriting at Johns Hopkins University where he made his debut short film, The Cyclist. With experience as a director’s assistant, script doctor, writer, and coordinator for NYC's Directors' Collective workshop, Bobby shares insights into his work in film. Together, Zef and Bobby dive into the artistry of two cinematic classics: Carol Reed's 1949 British noir THE THIRD MAN and Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece VERTIGO.
Originally recorded for FilmSEEN in June 2020.
Hosted by Zef Cota
...
2024-10-271h 18The Film Situation042 - Tracy James Terry - Playwright & ScreenwriterIn this episode of The Film Situation, Zef Cota sits down with the multi-talented Tracy James Terry, an award-winning playwright, actor, and musician turned screenwriter and producer. Tracy shares her journey from theater to film, recounting how her successful stage play led her to the world of screenwriting and eventually to founding her own film company. With wit and insight, she discusses the challenges of adapting her play for the screen, the cinematic and literary influences that shaped her work, and her upcoming film project, ÉIRE WE GO, a comedy about the hilarious misadventures of Americans in Ireland.
2024-10-2554 minThe Film Situation041 - Art Camacho - DirectorDirector and legendary stuntman Art Camacho. Known for his work on action-packed films, Art shares insights into his latest release, RUTHLESS (2023), a gripping revenge thriller starring Dermot Mulroney. Zef and Art also dive into his upcoming project, featuring iconic actors Harvey Keitel and Danny Trejo. With decades of experience in the industry, Art discusses the art of blending high-octane action with compelling storytelling, while reflecting on his journey from stunt coordination to directing. It's a must-listen for action film enthusiasts and aspiring filmmakers alike!
*
Hosted by Zef Cota
2024-10-081h 20The Film Situation040 - Jonathan Yunger, p.g.a. President of Millennium FilmsJonathan Yunger's has produced iconic action franchises and has worked on more than sixty films at Millennium, including THE EXPENDABLES franchise, OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN, LONDON HAS FALLEN, JOLT, THE HITMAN'S BODYGUARD, and MECHANIC: RESURRECTION.
He's also produced films such as TESLA, starring Ethan Hawke, which premiered at Sundance in 2020, and THE OUTPOST, featuring Scott Eastwood and Orlando Bloom, in which Yunger also had a supporting role and was nominated as a part of the 2021 Top Ten Independent Films by the National Board of Review.
Aside from being a film executive and prolific producer, Jonathan is a...
2024-09-161h 11The Film Situation039 - Heather Buckley & Jenn Wexler - THE RANGEROriginal FilmSeen Throwback from 2021.
2024-09-0858 minThe Film Situation038 - Throwback - Harri "Indio" RamkishunOriginally recorded in NYC - March 2020
Harri "Indio" Ramkishun is a Bronx born and raised filmmaker, director of photography, and producer. He is the owner/operator of GuyaRican Productions LLC (GRP). Indio also freelances as a live sports camera operator.
Indio wrote, produced, and directed "BlackOUT City" (2011), a short film about a couple evaluating their relationship during the northeast blackout of 2003. He has also worked on multiple short/feature projects in various roles.
In 2015, Indio was the Director of Photography on the series, Knockout, which aired on NuvoTV. The boxing competition show included...
2024-09-0558 minThe Film Situation037 - Byron Werner - CinematographerIn this episode of The Film Situation Podcast, we sit down with the incredibly talented Byron Werner, a seasoned cinematographer known for his work on the 2023 feature film SPINNING GOLD, as well as music videos for top artists such as Weezer, Coldplay, and Lil Wayne. Byron shares his journey from making short films in grade school to becoming a sought-after Director of Photography in Hollywood.
Byron discusses the creative process behind SPINNING GOLD, a biopic about Neil Bogart, the founder of Casablanca Records. He delves into the unique visual style of the film, which blends modern techniques...
2024-07-311h 06The Film Situation036 - Filmmaker Zachary TreitzZachary Treitz is a NYC based filmmaker he produced "The Pleasure of Being Robbed" and co-produced DADDY LONGLEGS. Both films premiered at the Directors’ Fortnight section of Cannes. He directed the short film "We’re Leaving," which premiered at Sundance and is available on the Criterion Channel. His feature film MEN GO TO BATTLE won the Best New Director prize at the Tribeca Film Festival and was distributed by Film Movement.
Inspired by years of hearing his childhood friend Christian Hansen's research into Danny Casolaro’s Octopus conspiracy, Zachary and Christian began a joint investigation and started filmin...
2024-06-281h 00The Film Situation035 -Alex Darke & Trevor L. NelsonAlex & Trevor used to host one of my favorite podcasts which was called 'No-Budget Filmmaking'. We discussed everything from the emergence of A.I. in moviemaking, to their past work with the late Larry King on his series 'Larry King Now'.
Then of course we talked about some of their favorite movie scenes from AMERICAN PSYCHO, CHILDREN OF MEN, JURRASIC PARK, & REQUIEM FOR A DREAM.
Trevor L. Nelson: @TrevorLNelson
Alex Darke: https://filmmakingcentral.com/
Hosted by Zef Cota
2024-05-161h 07The Film Situation034 -Hilary Duncanson - ActorHilary Duncanson is an actor known for MR HARRIGAN's PHONE (2022), TALES OF A SCORPIO SINGER, and HOMICIDE FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
We talk about filmmaking, working as a background actor, and some of his favorite movies including THE WIZARD OF OZ & 5 EASY PIECES.
2024-04-2654 minThe Film Situation033- OSCARS Recap 2024 w/Jon DifilippoRecorded the week following the Academy Awards with Jon Difilippo from Almigos Podcast.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2024-04-011h 10The Film Situation032 -Caroline Keene & Dan Kennedy - MERRY GOOD ENOUGHDan Kennedy & Caroline Keene directed a nice heartfelt indie film called MERRY GOOD ENOUGH. It's a comedy about a dysfunctional family whose mom disappears on Christmas Eve, and the lengths one daughter must go to bring her family back together again.
At once funny, intense and hopeful, MGE is led by the indelible Raye Levine and Joel Murray, and features a stand-out ensemble cast that includes Susan Gallagher, Comfort Clinton, Sawyer Spielberg, Daniel Desmarais, Neil Casey, Sophie von Haselberg, Margaret Curry, Kevin O. Peterson and Marcia DeBonis.
https://www.merrygoodenough.com/
Hosted by Ze...
2024-03-131h 02The Film Situation031 - Xochi Blymer - 1st AD / Producer / DirectorXochi grew up in the movie business with parents who were well known in the industry. In 1987, she joined the business working with the assistant directors. In 1991, she joined the DGA and has worked on such films as (TERMINATOR 2, DEMOLITION MAN, & LETHAL WEAPON 4) and tv show primarily as a 1st AD. She has a documentary feature in the works called RED DOG & BATES.
Throwback episode - first recorded in August of 2020
Hosted by Zef Cota
2024-01-121h 52The Film Situation030 - Recap of 2023 w/John Manna & Zef CotaFilmmaker John Manna joins the podcast for a 2023 recap of the movie industry and to discuss various films that were released last year.
Hosted by Zef Cota
Produced by Andy Price
Post Production by Theodora Harrington
2024-01-1058 minThe Film Situation029 - Amos Poe - FilmmakerAmos Poe is an American New York City-based director and screenwriter, described by The New York Times as a "pioneering indie filmmaker".
Amos Poe is one of the first punk filmmakers and his film The Blank Generation[2] (1976)—co-directed with Ivan Král— is one of the earliest punk films. The film features performances by Richard Hell, Talking Heads, Television, Patti Smith, and Wayne County. Rolling Stone named it number 6 on its list of 25 Greatest Punk Rock Movies of All Time.[3]
He is also associated with the birth of No Wave Cinema due to films such as Th...
2024-01-051h 24The Film Situation028 - Tone Tank - Actor & Street ArtistTone Tank is a Brooklyn based actor and street artist that has been featured in such films as JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH (2021), THE BIRTHDAY CAKE (2021), and NEWLYWEEDS (2013).
2024-01-011h 08The Film Situation027 - The 61st New York Film Festival 2023 recap w/Dara NaficyZef Cota speaks with Dara Naficy of GlobeScreen about the various films that played at 61st annual New York Film Festival.
2023-10-2358 minThe Film Situation026 - Mathew Rudenberg - CinematographerLA based Director of Photography. Movies and TV including Die Hart 2, Blue Mountain State, Kroll Show, and Ultrasound. www.mrudenberg.com @rudenberg_dp
2023-09-191h 12The Film Situation025 - Nicholas Maggio- Director, MOB LANDBorn in New Orleans, LA and raised in Bakersfield, CA, Nicholas Maggio now lives in Los Angeles. His directorial debut, MOB LAND (2023) starring John Travolta, Shiloh Fernandez, Ashley Benson, Stephen Dorff, & Kevin Dillon, is a homage to the classic American Neo-Noir genre.
We discussed the making of his debut feature film, the DIY nature of making indie movies, hardcore music, and then discussed two of his all time favorites the John Hughs classic THE BREAKFAST CLUB and Andrew Dominik's THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD.
Check out MOB LAND released by...
2023-08-2847 minThe Film Situation024 - Jessica Sherr - Actress/Writer/ProducerJessica Sherr is an award-winning Actress/Writer/Producer. Jessica appears on 'Claws' (TNT), 'Cloak and Dagger' (ABC FreeForm) and on 'Blue Bloods'(CBS). Jessica produced and stars in the award-winning series, Scratch This. Jessica's dark comedy short, WICKED IMAGE, screened at Lighthouse Film Festival 2021. Jessica is the actress and writer of the acclaimed one-woman show, 'Bette Davis Aint For Sissies' directed by Drama Desk Award Winning Karen Carpenter. She had her international debut at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival and was offered a run at St. James Theater in London.
https://www.jessicasherr.com/
IG: @jessica_s...
2023-07-1058 minThe Film Situation023 - Luke Bryant - CinematographerLuke Bryant is a UK based cinematographer who DP'd THE LAST KINGDOM: SEVEN KINGS MUST DIE (2023), THE LAIR (2022), BUDDY GAMES (2019) as well as series such as Dr. Who, Grace, and Ramash.
IG: @lukebryantdop
website: https://www.lukebryant.co.uk/
Hosted by Zef Cota
2023-06-051h 00The Film Situation022 - Erick Freitas & Derick Jones - Comic Books, Movies, FIGHT CLUB & John Carpenter’s THE THINGErick Freitas is union location scout and has worked on such films THE WOLF OF WALL STREET, HUSTLERS, and THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY amongst many others. Derick jones comic book artist currently living in Chicago. He's worked for z2, boom! and Idw and has been self publishing his latest batch of books!
They teamed up to create a comic book called Urges.
On this episode of the Film Situation podcast they joined to discuss comics, movies, the impact of the movie FIGHT CLUB and John Carpenter's THE THING.
*
Derick Jones @skudsink on instagram and on twitter.
Erick Freitas @ec...
2023-06-0352 minThe Film Situation021 - Ondi Timoner -Interloper FilmsAcclaimed filmmaker Ondi Timoner and founder of Interloper Films– who’s known for her documentaries 2004’s DIG, which won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance the year and has been selected by the Museum of Modern Art for their permanent collection – the 2009 film WE LIVE IN PUBLIC which also won the Grand Jury prize at Sundance the year it came out. Also for the films MAPLETHORPE, BRAND: A SECOND COMING, 2022’s LAST FLIGHT HOME and her recent film THE NEW AMERICANS: GAMING A REVOLUTION which premiered at SXSW.
2023-05-231h 00The Film Situation020 - Schuyler Moore - Film Financing & the Future of the IndustrySchuyler (“Sky”) M. Moore is a partner in the corporate entertainment department of Greenberg Glusker LLP, practicing entertainment, corporate, and tax law.
Sky has been practicing in the entertainment industry since 1981, represents producers, sales agents, foreign distributors and financiers, and has handled some of the largest financing transactions in Hollywood. He is Chair of Stroock’s Entertainment Practice Group.
Sky is the author of 'The Biz', currently in its 5th edition - a popular book on the film industry, and the treatise, Taxation of the Entertainment Industry. He is a mainstay on Hollywood Reporter’s “Power Lawy...
2023-05-1646 minThe Film Situation019 - Christina Richardson - Filmmaker/1st AD/& Founder of Bronx Film Initiative, Inc.Christina Richardson is an award-winning filmmaker whose storytelling abilities have captivated the hearts of many. Based in NYC by way of Los Angeles, California, Christina got her start as a child actress and eventually began screenwriting, directing, and editing, contributing to projects for major artists, corporations, and large brands. Christina is the Founder of the New York-based not-for-profit organization Bronx Film Initiative, Inc, and is also qualified by the Directors Guild of America as a 1st AD.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2023-04-271h 12The Film Situation018 - David Permut p.g.a. - Producer of FACE/OFF, HACKSAW RIDGEDavid Permut is a film producer who's worked on dozens of acclaimed and commercially successful films with over 40 years of experience in the motion picture industry. He's received both Academy and Emmy Award nominations including HACKSAW RIDGE (2016) and FACE/OFF (1997).
Hosted by Zef Cota
2023-02-251h 07The Film Situation017 - Jonah SchwartzJonah Schwartz is a New York based director and cinematographer. He's directed a prolific amount of music videos for hip hop artists in both America and Japan. Jonah also spent many years living in Japan, where he began working with popular brands and artists.
Jonah has worked with such artists as Prodigy (Mobb Deep), Freddy Gibbs, A$AP Mob, as well as The Black Keys amongst many more. He was also the cinematographer for the 2015 indie feature film, HONOR UP, directed by Damon Dash. Most recently Jonah directed the short film, THE DARK AGE, which is currently ava...
2023-02-211h 04The Film Situation016 - Tom DiCilloTom DiCillo is an American film director, screenwriter known for such films as JOHNNY SUEDE (1991) starring Brad Pitt & Catherine Keener, LIVING IN OBLIVION (1995) with Steve Buscemi also starring Catherine Keener, BOX OF MOONLIGHT (1996) with John Turturro and Sam Rockwell, & DELIRIOUS (2006) starring Steve Buscemi and Michael Pitt. He also made the acclaimed documentary WHEN YOU'RE STRANGE (2009) about The Doors which like several of his other films have premiered at Sundance.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2023-02-091h 27The Film Situation015 - Severine ReispSeverine Reisp is a filmmaker based in New York City. Her short films have won awards such as Best Romance Film at Los Angeles Film Awards, Best Women Filmmaker at Atman Film Festival, and the Cinematic Award at Cyprus Film Festival. Severine grew up in Germany with a background as a ballet dancer and later moved to NY where attended Sarah Lawrence College, and went on to pursue her MFA in Film from the City College of New York. Since then, she has directed multiple award-winning short films and music videos.
She recently directed and produced a 17 m...
2023-02-0354 minThe Film Situation014 - Ben MyersBen Myers is an award-winning director, writer, and actor, whose work has premiered at Austin Film Festival, Catalyst Story Institute, and whose writing has been recognized by the Sundance Episode Labs. His films The Vanity (2017), Power Out (2018), and A Lone Star Love (2021) have screened at film festivals internationally, and as a producer he has worked with brands like The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, and RTE.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2023-02-011h 05The Film Situation013 - Sundance 2023 recap part 2 + throwback episode w/Rashaad Ernesto GreenRecap of Sundance 2023 w/Mattie Johnson + throwback episode with Rashaad Ernesto Green.
2023-02-011h 17The Film Situation012 - Vincent De Paula - CinematographerVincent De Paula, CSC is an award winning cinematographer based between Los Angeles and Vancouver. Originally from Spain, Vincent moved to London where he first learned the craft and worked on documentaries as well as narrative projects.
Vincent is the cinematographer of the Netflix series 'Firefly Lane' starring Katherine Heigl and Sarah Chalke, the upcoming season of D.C.'s The Flash, as well as such feature films like 2 HEARTS and THE WILL.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2023-01-2656 minThe Film Situation011 - Sundance 2023 + throwback episode w/Heather Buckley & Jenn WexlerSome info about 2023 Sundance Film Festival and also a throwback episode from 2020 featuring Heather Buckley and Jenn Wexler that made the horror film, THE RANGER.
2023-01-261h 04The Film Situation010 - Roman Molino DunnRoman Molino Dunn is an award-winning composer who divides his time between LA & NYC. His background as a Billboard-charting music producer and co-owner of audio post production facility, Mirrortone Studios, gives him a unique approach and philosophy for his film scoring.
We discussed his prolific career working on such films as SNAKEHEAD, AI LOVE YOU (Thailand), and Paul Schrader's THE CARD COUNTER as well as some of his cinematic sensibilities.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2023-01-1153 minThe Film Situation009 - Hayato MitsuishiHayato is the Founder and CEO of Kevin's Entertainment, a film production company based in Los Angeles. He is best known for WHERE FLORENCE SLEEPS (2016), MIRACLE IN KASAMA (2018) and LOVE SHACK (2022).
On the episode we discussed his experiences in producing independent films, Japanese Cinema, and Martin Scorsese's THE WOLF OF WALL STREET.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2022-12-3040 minThe Film Situation008 - David ProvalDavid Proval is an American actor, known for his roles as Tony DeVienazo in the Martin Scorsese film MEAN STREETS (1973), Snooze in THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (1994), Siegfried in FOUR ROOMS (1995) and as Richie Aprile on the HBO television series The Sopranos.
On the podcast we discuss David's career, the craft of acting, working with Martin Scorsese, as well as two of David's favorite films, Elia Kazan's EAST OF EDEN and ON THE WATERFRONT starring Marlon Brando.
Hosted by Zef Cota
2022-10-2056 minThe Film Situation007- The 60th New York Film Festival 2022 + Throwback Episode w/Kent JonesMartin Scorsese presented a documentary he directed at The 60th NYFF (New York Film Festival) called PERSONALITY CRISIS: ONE NIGHT ONLY. The film is centered on David Johansen who's best known as a member of the seminal proto-punk band the New York Dolls. It was co-directed by David Tedeschi (THE 50 YEAR ARGUMENT).
+ Bonus throwback 2020 Podcast w/ former Director of New York Film Festival -- Writer & Director, Kent Jones, who made the film DIANE 2018 (Starring Mary Kay Place & Executive Producer Martin Scorsese). It won three awards at the Tribeca Film Festival including Best Narrative Feature, Best Screenplay and Be...
2022-10-141h 31The Film Situation006 - Emmett LoverdeEmmett Loverde is a writer & director based in Los Angeles.
He grew up in Berkeley, California and received a degree in Theater from UCLA. He has written extensively for stage, screen, television, and radio. Over 200 separate productions of his stage plays have been mounted worldwide to date. This past year he produced a film called AGENT GAME starring Mel Gibson.
Emmett is currently in production in a feature length thriller called WITHOUT A NAME.
2022-10-131h 05The Film Situation005 - Ruben RodasRuben Rodas, is a NYC based independent filmmaker, originally from Asuncion, Paraguay. His professional background includes extended experience in the fields of Film, television shows, commercials, music videos, and media marketing. In the year 2001 he was recognized for his award winning short film "Paper Airplanes." Consequently, he was hired to be a director and producer for TV shows at the Telefuturo network. There he worked very closely with the marketing department to develop new television shows, and commercials for some of channel's biggest sponsors, such Coca-Cola, Unilever and Pilsen. During his three years at the network he obtained various...
2022-10-041h 05The Film Situation004 - Andrew FuchsAndrew Fuchs is a writer/director originally from San Francisco, he's currently based in New York City. Andrew recently directed a short film called Puppet Man that is on the festival circuit that was a collaboration with Zef who produced the film.
In this episode we discuss Andrew's approach to filmmaking, working with actors, as well as some of his favorite movie scenes from; Richard Linklater's BEFORE MIDNIGHT, and Noah Baumbach's MARRIAGE STORY.
2022-10-0156 minThe Film Situation003 - George RudajIndie film producer, George Rudaj joined the podcast to discuss filmmaking, his philosophy about making movies, creative collaborations with Zef Cota on the film THE TROUBLE as well as talking about James Mangold's COP LAND.
2022-09-091h 26The Film Situation002 - Johnny ZitoWe had NYC based Actor, Johnny Zito. We discuss acting, Mike Nichols, films from the French New Wave, and Charlie Chaplin amongst many other topics.
2022-08-191h 01The Film Situation001 - Lina LanskyHosted by Zef Cota
Lina Lansky is a 1st AD and Indie Film Producer. Lina and Zef discuss indie filmmaking.
2022-08-091h 13