Shows
Best in FestIan Hinden on Building a Music-Game Universe & Reinventing StorytellingIn this visionary episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage talks with Ian Hinden—Las Vegas-born musician, game designer, and immersive storyteller—about redefining how music, gaming, and social commentary collide. Ian dives into the creation of his interactive music video and video game hybrid, "Would You Call Him a Bad Man?", which is set to premiere at Dances With Films.He shares:How anime, alt-rock, and Red Hot Chili Peppers inspired his multimedia storytellingWhy he designed a satirical game to spotlight coercion, abuse, and corporate hypocrisyThe influence of streaming culture, indi...2025-06-1732 minBest in FestLaura Harrington on Acting with DiCaprio, Writing for Scorsese, and Crafting Stories That Matter - Ep #221In this powerful episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage welcomes acclaimed actress-turned-screenwriter Laura Harrington, whose career has spanned blockbuster sets and award-winning scripts. From starring opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape to writing for legends like Martin Scorsese and Taylor Hackford, Laura shares how she transitioned from the stage to the page—and why storytelling is her true calling.Laura reveals:How her breakout role in Maximum Overdrive led to working with Stephen KingThe real-life encounter that inspired her script about Fidel CastroHer emotional journey writing The Ninth Fortress, a Ho...2025-06-1044 minBest in FestElizabeth Quinn on Writing with Grit, Producing with Passion & the Real Story Behind 'Going Reno' - Ep #220In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage welcomes writer, producer, and performer Elizabeth Quinn, whose sharp wit and love for offbeat stories have earned her a spot at the 2024 Tribeca Festival with her audio drama Going Reno. Elizabeth shares her journey from New York theater to L.A. improv, her transition into writing and producing, and the creative spark behind her 1930s divorce-ranch podcast starring Bonnie Hunt and Joelle Carter.Tune in to hear Elizabeth’s insights on:Navigating the indie film world as a multi-hyphenate creatorThe future of narrative audio an...2025-06-0443 minBest in FestKrisztina Goda on Female Filmmaking, International Storytelling & Surviving the Creative Process - Ep #219In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with one of Hungary’s most celebrated directors, Krisztina Goda, whose breakout hit Just Sex and Nothing Else catapulted her to fame. Goda shares her journey from the prestigious National Film and Television School to UCLA, her experience navigating Hungary’s male-dominated film industry, and the creative challenges of writing and directing both indie features and commercial work. They discuss the evolving role of women in film, the impact of streaming platforms on foreign-language cinema, and what it takes to stay passionate about storytelling in a...2025-05-2728 minBest in FestFrom the Writers’ Room to the Revolution: Michael Daley on TV’s Changing LandscapeIn this episode of Best in Fest, festival director Leslie LaPage sits down with veteran TV writer Michael FX Daley—whose credits include CSI, The X-Files, Reaper, Maniac, and The Leftovers—for a behind-the-scenes look at how the television industry has transformed over the past two decades. Daley shares his journey from being a reluctant TV convert to writing major network finales, dishes on what it’s really like inside a writer’s room, and reveals how streaming, binging, and evolving audience behaviors are reshaping storytelling. Plus, hear how he's using his industry knowledge to shape the next generation of write...2025-05-2030 minBest in FestIdo Samuel: From Tel Aviv to Hulu—Crafting Characters with Purpose - Ep #217In this episode of Best in Fest, Leslie LaPage sits down with acclaimed international actor Ido Samuel, known for his roles in We Were the Lucky Ones, FBI: International, Tehran, and the award-winning short Dirty Bomb. Ido shares his journey from growing up in Israel to breaking into Hollywood, how he landed his powerful role as a conflicted Jewish policeman in Hulu’s Holocaust drama, and the real-life stories that shaped his performances. From navigating the L.A. acting scene to honoring Holocaust survivors through film, this episode is a candid and inspiring look at the grit, talent, and gl...2025-05-1327 minBest in FestFrom Marine to Hollywood: Dee Freeman’s Journey of Tenacity, Theater, and Truth - Ep #213What does it take to transition from the U.S. Marine Corps to the big screen? Actress Dee Freeman shares her incredible journey from serving in the military to gracing the stage and screen, including her gripping true-crime solo show, Poison Gun. From breaking barriers as a woman in the USMC to tackling Hollywood’s toughest auditions, Dee’s story is one of resilience, humor, and an unbreakable spirit. Tune in as she and Leslie LaPage dive into the power of storytelling, the challenges of theater, and the untold history of women Marines.2025-04-1536 minBest in FestFrom Fitness to Film: Kerstin Schulze on Building Strength & Success in Hollywood - Ep #212In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with actress and fitness expert Kerstin Schulze to uncover the secrets behind Hollywood’s most sculpted bodies. From training A-list stars like Chris Hemsworth to landing roles in The Righteous Gemstones and American Horror Story, Kerstin shares her journey from competitive sports to the big screen. Discover the truth about Hollywood fitness trends, the power of diet and discipline, and how she balances acting with her passion for health. Tune in for insider tips, industry wisdom, and inspiration to fuel your own fitness and career goals!2025-04-0833 minBest in FestFilm, Reality TV, and the Power of Storytelling with Alpesh Patel - Ep #211From Bollywood dreams to Hollywood reality, filmmaker and editor Alpesh Patel shares his incredible journey in the entertainment industry. In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage dives into Patel’s career—from writing award-winning screenplays and directing indie films to editing over 30 reality TV shows, including Ghost Hunters and Expedition X. Discover how he navigated the film industry, built a production studio in Pennsylvania, and his plans for launching a new comedy series. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a content creator, Patel's insights on storytelling, AI in film, and breaking into Hollywood will inspire you. Don...2025-04-0129 minBest in FestFrom Startups to Superheroes: Nimrod May’s Journey with God’s Gang - Ep #208What happens when a media strategist and startup expert turns his passion into an animated series with a mission? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Nimrod May, the visionary behind God’s Gang, a groundbreaking animated series where love, unity, and compassion become superpowers. Discover how Nimrod transitioned from launching media startups to creating an interfaith superhero universe with millions of followers, all while leveraging startup strategies, marketing expertise, and the power of manifestation. Tune in for insights on growing a digital brand, funding an independent animation project, and making a lasting im...2025-03-1138 minBest in FestLet's Talk Distribution and Your Rights with Leslie LaPage - Ep #179Why are you giving away festival rights to distribution companies? Let's discuss. In this episode, Leslie goes deep into the 5 things that are a must know before signing a distribution deal.2024-08-2735 minBest in FestGetting Your Script Ready to Sell with Peyton McDavitt - Ep #144In this episode Leslie and Peyton talk about her career as an actress and a writer. Peyton gives great tips on how to prepare your script for sale in Hollywood. Peyton McDavitt was born on 12 January 1984 in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. She is an actress and writer,2023-12-1828 minBest in FestDesign Your Career as a Director of Photography with Jay Lopez Jr. - Ep #144In this episode, Leslie speaks with Director of Photography at "In Reel Time" Jay Lopez Jr. Jay is a rising star in the industry and they discuss everything from the basic lighting of a shot to drone operating and AI. This episode has something for everyone.https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6800740/2023-12-1238 minBest in FestWhat it Takes to be Great at Your Craft with Maritza Meadows - Ep #139From line producing to lighting design Leslie and Maritza dive deep into what it really takes to perfect your craft in Hollywood.2023-11-0739 minBest in FestWhat Does A Line Producer Really Do? - Ep #122A Line Producer is the unsung hero of a film production. Full of responsibility and, of course, stress, the job of a line producer is crucial and really challenging. In this episode Leslie breaks down the whole job from beginning to the end leaving no stone unturned. This is a must listen!2023-07-1834 minBest in FestHow to Market a Killer Sports Documentary - Ep# 114Today Leslie has on John Wayne S III, Tyawanna Smith, Kristine McPhearson the creators of the sports documentary "Ballin' Aboard" to talk about how to market a film in todays industry.Ballin Aboard is the journey of five Champion and top-tier American athletes playing basketball in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) and Euro-Leagues.2023-05-1639 minBest in FestLaFemme Panel Part 2: Independent Financing - Ep #97Join Leslie for this very special episode directly from LaFemme International Film Festival. Moderated by Debeorah Gilels from LA Media Consultants this is part 2 of a panel titled Independent Financing: From Bridge to Gap to Raising Capital.2023-01-1759 minBest in FestLaFemme Panel Part 1: Independent Financing - Ep #96Join Leslie for this very special episode directly from LaFemme International Film Festival. Moderated by Debeorah Gilels from LA Media Consultants this is part 1 of a panel titled Independent Financing: From Bridge to Gap to Raising Capital.2023-01-1050 minBest in FestCreate Your Life As A Filmmaker - Ep #94In this astonishing episode, Leslie breaks down the steps it takes to design your life as a filmmaker. This is the perfect episode if you want to start off 2023 in a major way.2022-12-2727 minBest in FestWriting for the Top Comedies on TV with Bob Nickman - Ep #93Bob Nickman is a comedian, actor, writer and producer who has worked on some of the most iconic sit-coms like Mad About You and Rosanne. In this episode Leslie talks with Bob about what it's like to work on these shows and how to transition from one to the other. Bob Nickman is an American comedian, actor, television producer, and television writer.As a television producer/writer, his credits include Mad About You, Freaks and Geeks, Danny, According to Jim, Big Day, Rita Rocks and Roseanne.As an actor, he appeared in...2022-12-2042 minBest in FestHuman Trafficking in Filmmaking with Christina Zorich - Ep #92Human trafficking is one of the most frightening and misunderstood realities of the world... and this blight is right here in the US. In this episode, Leslie speaks with actor and filmmaker Christina Zorich. about her new Docummentary the New Abolitionists. 2022-12-1340 minBest in FestPR Strategies for Your Independent Film with AJ Adelman - Ep #91Have you ever wished you could get free advice from a Public Relations and Marketing guru to promote your independent film? Leslie sits down with AJ Adelman the Chief Innovation Officer at Infinity Films who drops golden nuggets on how to get your film out into the world.AJ AdelmanA.J. Adelman brings more than 30 years of corporate accountmanagement, sales/sponsorships, producer/developmentexecutive, consultancy, training/teaching and market researchexperience to the team.His award-winning experience includes film, video, commercials,print, social media, sponsorships...2022-12-0642 minBest in FestHow to Start A Production Company - Ep #90Should you start a production company if you're a filmmaker. Almost definitely. In this episode, Leslie talks about why you should think about setting up a corporation and how you should set up your corporation. You'll learn everything from finding the right legal fictitious name to tax benefits and corporate protections. Don't miss this episode.2022-11-2932 minBest in FestThe Laws of Attraction with J Cynthia Brooks - Ep #89What are the laws of attraction in the universe and can you learn how to use them to attract everything you've ever wanted? Well, sure! In this episode Leslie talks with J Cynthia Brooks who teaches her techniques to attract what you want in your life. These techniques are fantastic for actors and any other industry professionals who have to pitch their projects.2022-11-2251 minBest in FestHow to Produce and Develop TV & Film with John Beach - Ep #88Do you need to raise money for your film? Maybe you 're looking to attract a production company to your pilot or film script? In this episode Leslie speaks with Literary Agent and Producer John Beach about how to develop projects and what stands out when he's looking for a scriptJohn has worked in the entertainment industry for over 20 years – starting as a literary agent at Paradigm and later with ACME Talent & Literary, where he was instrumental in the sale of Oliver Stone’s WORLD TRADE CENTER w/ Nicolas Cage and YOUTH IN REVOLT w/ Michael Cera...2022-11-1547 minBest in FestTransitioning from Corporate America to Hollywood with Frank Kelly - Ep #87Frank Kelly went from working in Corporate America to becoming a self-taught filmmaker and Leslie learns the story and the nuggets of lessons he's learned on the way.Frank Kelly is the founder and creative director of Reel City Films, a film & video production company dedicated to creating content for brands and agencies. Through his company, Frank writes and directs the majority of the work he and his team produce. Current and past clients include Bacardi, Princess Cruise Lines, the Biltmore Hotel, Mercedes Benz, SLS Hotels, Dream Hotels, the Greater Miami Visitor's Bureau and Baptist Health to na...2022-11-0831 minBest in FestFrom Paul Newman to Woody Allen with Drew Ann Rosenberg - Ep #86In today's episode Leslie talks with Director Drew Ann Rosenberg about her time on Broadway and her move toward directing films.Drew grew up in Princeton, New Jersey, later graduating from Brown University. She found her love of the arts through her years of study as a classically trained singer, performing in Boston and NYC. After graduation, Drew began working behind the scenes in New York's off-Broadway Theatres- Playwright's Horizons and American Place, before transitioning to film. She began her film career working with directors Sidney Lumet, Arthur Penn, Woody Allen, Paul Newman, Barbet Schroeder...2022-11-0132 minBest in FestThe Golden Rules of the Film Industry with Tony Boldi - Ep #84How do you break in, produce and have a career in Hollywood? Today Leslie talks with Tony Boldi with over 25 years of practical experience in the film industry about the brutality and fun of working in Hollywood.More About TonyTony is the Founder and CEO of Lifeforce Foundations which is a For-Cause Organization focused upon Global and Local Social Concerns.Tony has received numerous honors and awards such as the Official People's Mayor of Hollywood and a honorary PhD from his former learning institution.Tony continues to grow...2022-10-2544 minBest in FestFrom Fellini to Orson Wells with Irina Maleeva - Ep 83Today Leslie sits down with Irina Maleeva to discuss her fascinating career in TV and Film, what it was like to be discovered by Fellini and much more.More about Irina:Star of stage, screen, television, cabaret and the world of music, Irina Maleeva is a true multifaceted international sensation. The daughter of a famed Bulgarian stage actress and an aristocratic Italian statesman, Maleeva first established herself as a child performer in her native Bulgaria -- and from there her career and talents would bring her to the glittering global stage....2022-10-1830 minBest in FestWhat Networks Want From A Show Runner with Cindy Villarreal - Ep #82Do you want to know what networks are looking for directly from an executive who is also a show runner? Enter Cindy Villarreal who sits down with Leslie and breaks down everything form story to script to analytics. Do not miss this one!More about Cindy:Cindy Villarreal is a versatile, network executive producer and show-runner with 30 years of entertainment experience in new media, episodic TV, and feature films overseeing projects for many broadcasting networks including the CW, Viacom, Verizon Go90, CBS, Alloy Media, NFL and Awesomeness TV among others for distribution. Villarreal...2022-10-1132 minBest in FestFilming in the Big City of Chicago - Ep #80In this episode Leslie talks to Actor/Producer Tara Shayne about filming in Chicago. They discuss everything from casting to location scouting to funding and all aspects of Independent Film in between. Don't miss it.2022-09-2730 minBest in FestMaking the Most Out of AFM - Ep #78Do you want to be a networking master at AFM? Do you have a finished film that you want to sell at AFM? In this episode Leslie gives amazing advice and tips on how to navigate the coctail hours and pitch meetings like a pro. 2022-09-1327 minBest in FestLessons from Hollywood with James Michael Cummings - Ep #77How do you navigate a career in Hollywood from actor to writer to producer and even director? Leslie sits down with James Michael Cummings and talks about setting up a great team, finding funding, location scouting, casting, expanding your role, finding the right projects and much more. From City on a Hill to casting Jamie Fox, this is an amazing episode with valuable stories and advice.2022-09-0645 minBest in FestThe World of Japanese Anime with Ko Mori - Ep #76Ko Mori produces anime and live action by telling stories that show his Japanese culture and nobody does it better. In this episode, Leslie and Ko discuss new projects and creative partners, hybrid festivals, distribution and much more...2022-08-3042 minBest in FestA Career as an AD at a Time When Women Were Not with Marty Elcan- Ep #75At a time when women were rarely in positions of power on a set, Marty Elcan was an Assistant Director on iconic shows like Hill Street Blues, Six Feet Under, Picket Fences and many, many more. In this episode, Leslie and Mary break down her career and the job of an assistant director on set.2022-08-2341 minBest in FestFilm Financing, What You Don't Know You Don't Know -Ep #74Bring your notebooks, today Leslie gives a class on all the different ways to get financing for your independent film and also how to avoid getting screwed in the process. She discusses things like Gap financing, bridge financing, equity investing with private money, different loans, how and why to choose a sales agent, how to get distribution, resale agreements and much more. This is a MUST LISTEN!2022-08-1736 minBest in FestYour Producing Mentor with Lisa FrebergIn this episode Leslie talks with film producer Lisa Freberg about her move from studio films to Independent Producer and they get really specific about mentorship and how to put together funding for your Indie film. This is a great one!About LisaCEO / Founder / ProducerLisa J Freberg is the co-founder of One Good Man Productions, based in Los Angeles, CA. She is a former Dreamworks executive, having overseen development and production of branded content for franchises including How To Train Your Dragon, Guardians, Kung Fu Panda, Shrek F...2022-08-0946 minBest in FestAn Industry That's Evolving with Producer, Director, Writer & Casting Director Valerie McCaffrey - Ep #72The TV & Film Industry is changing. Streamers filled a need during the pandemic, but theatrical releases are still an important aspect of the industry. On thing is for sure, the industry is adapting and it's changing the way filmmakers find funding and create their art. In this episode, Leslie talks with Valerie McCaffrey who has had a long and successful career as a Casting Director and now is finding success as a producer/writer/director.2022-08-0230 minBest in FestIntimacy Coordinator on the Set with Tyler Rugh and Fernando Andres - Ep #71Independent film is evolving and today Leslie speaks with two cutting edge filmmakers Tyler Rugh and Fernando Andres the writer/directors of "Three Headed Beast" to discuss the process of creating new art and how to effectively get it into the film festivals.2022-07-2631 minBest in FestA New and Rare Talent in the Visual Arts with Director Sam Fox - Ep #70Sam Fox is a unique Director that is making her mark in Hollywood. Leslie sat down with Sam to discuss the techniques, inspiration and secrets behind her highly stylized films.More About SamBorn on a secluded animal farm at the top of Malibu’s infamous Mulholland Highway and now based in Venice Beach, Sam blends highly stylized imagery, music, and psychedelia with horror and genre cinema via her production company Foxy Films (WOWZERS, UNAGI). Inspired by a clothing collection from indie fashion label Animal Crackers Clothing, for whom she often collaborates, Sam wrote a...2022-07-1935 minBest in FestDangerous Discoveries That Lead to Documentaries with Cevin Soling Ep #69Today Leslie has a fascinating conversation with Documentary Filmmaker Cevin Soling about what it's like to investigate ancient tribes that still exist. How do you put together a compelling film when you have no idea what you will find? Do you go in with a planned story or agenda? Cevin addresses this and much more in this informative episode of Best in Fest.More About CevinCevin Soling, president of Spectacle Films and Xemu Records, works aswriter, director, producer, artist, and academic. Soling directed and produced, THE WAR ON K...2022-07-1342 minBest in FestFrom Distribution to Producing with Jonathan Hlibka and Ryan Keller - Ep #68Want to understand what it takes to understand the film industry? Listen to this episode! A distributor and a lawyer get together to create an independent film production company. Leslie talks with Jonathan Hlibka and Ryan Keller about the transition into production and the high-wire act it takes to get a film made.Jonathan Hibka & Ryan KellerSeeing the world change so quickly on 911, I took a step back and focused ondeveloping music and writing for film. Around that time is actually when I met Ryan Keller. Ihad seen ho...2022-07-0545 minBest in FestMaking Your Way as an Award-Winning Filmmaker with Brenton Tyner Bryan - Ep #67In a way, this episode is like a do-it-yourself guide to how to launch your career as a filmmaker. Leslie speaks with Brenton Tyner Bryan about putting together funding for independent projects, establishing yourself as a filmmaker, finding the right crew, guerilla-style filming, finding a mentor, asking the right questions and much more. The lesson? Get out there and start, complete, learn the lessons and then do it again. This is a great episode.Brenton Tyner Bryan HOLLYWOOD - MAY 18, 2022 -- Multi-award winning director/actor/writer/choreographerBreton Tyner-Bryan will present the L...2022-06-2837 minBest in FestWriting for Theatre, Stage and Screen with William Nedved - Ep #66Are you looking for a class in how to write for stage and screen? This is the episode for you. Leslie speaks with writer and educator William Nedved on his life and process for writing and teaching writing.About William:I am a playwright, lyricist and screenwriter engaged with exploring the journeys that define us. I’m the co-founder of The Gift Theatre Company of Chicago, where I have premiered my plays Body + Blood (Jeff Recommended), Northwest Highway (2011 Steinberg American Theater Critics Association nomination), A Young Man in Pieces, and County Fair. I...2022-06-2137 minBest in FestNavigating the Great Cannes Film Festival with Caroline Friend - Ep #65Caroline Friend is fresh out of film school and already making waves in the industry. In this episode, Leslie and Caroline discuss all things film and festivals. You're gonna love it.About Caroline:Caroline Friend is an award-winning director and writer. Caroline earned her degree in Film Production and History from the University of Southern California. Her latest film, Under Darkness, was a finalist for the Student Academy Awards®, premiered at Telluride Film Festival, and won the Horizon Award at the Sundance Film Festival. Her work has been recognized by the Directors Guild of...2022-06-1435 minBest in FestThe Distinguished Career of Actor-Producer Chris Mulkey - Ep #64Today, Leslie's guest is acclaimed actor, producer and writer Chris Mulkey! Leslie and Chris cover everything from his original music to Twin Peaks, , Captain Phillips, his most recent project "The World Without You", and how he's managed to have a career of such longevity and prestige. Do NOT miss this one.About Chris MulkeyAward-winning American actor, writer and director, Chris Mulkey has a long and diverse career in film, television and stage. Chris is best known for On the Basis of Sex (2018), Whiplash (2014), Captain Phillips (2013), Twin Peaks (1990), Castle Rock (2018), Broken Trail (2006), Any...2022-06-0734 minBest in FestPlot Holes and Character Motivations with Jacob Withers and Justin Norman - Ep #63Co-writing and film-making is a tricky business in Hollywood today which is why Leslie spoke with the team of writer/filmmaker Jacob Withers and writer/director/editor/composer Justin Norman. Jacob has over a decade of writing experience and four years of filmmaking experience. During those four years Jacob has worked on several short films, including seven award-winning shorts: Admission, winner of Best Film at the 48 Hour Film Project Des Moines (2018); Subtext, Runner Up Best Film at the 48 Hour Film Project Des Moines (2019); Cope, Runner Up Best film at the 48 Hour Film Project Kansas City (2019); A...2022-05-3132 minBest in FestFrom the Philippines to Hollywood with Ana Tuazon Parsons - #62Leslie talks with her guest Ana Tuazon Parsons about moving with her single mom from the Philippines all the way to Hollywood. Ana has appeared in projects such as Adam Ruins Everything, Dexter, Sherlock Holmes, the Asian That Didn't etc..., but may be best known as a theatre actor and stage comedian. Ana also discusses her writing background and storytelling style which has taken her on many incredible journeys and opened up all sorts of opportunities.2022-05-2428 minBest in FestThe Essence of Character with Kadina De Elejalde - Ep# 61Today Leslie speaks with Actress and Acting Coach Kadina De Elejalde about how to transform and live inside a character. Next they discuss auditioning for major roles vs. supporting roles, auditioning with self tapes, the intimacy of film, casting during Covid, Kadina's specific coaching process. If you're an actor then this is your episode.2022-05-1742 minBest in FestEverything A Film Editor Needs to Know with Matthew C. Hart - Ep #59Are you looking to build a career as a film editor? Maybe you just want to learn a few new tricks of the trade. Well, today Leslie sits down with film editor Matthew C. Hart to talk about everything from how to be a true partner with your director to how to break into the business. Don't miss this jam packed episode.More About Matthew:Matthew Hart is a British/American feature film editor living in New York.He has worked across genres on intense character studies, comedies, revenge thrillers, non-binary sexual awakenings an...2022-05-0340 minBest in FestLet's Get Nominated! How to Get to the Oscars with Monika Ossowska and Tadeusz Lysiak - Ep #58So, how do you get your short film nominated for an Oscar? Well, you're in the right place. In this episode Leslie talks with Polish filmmakers Monika Ossowska and Tadeusz Lysiak about their Oscar nominated short film "The Dress", the requirements to get nominated, the event and much more. Tadeusz Łysiak – born in 1993, graduate of Cultural Studies at the University of Warsaw, student of Directing at the Warsaw Film School. Creator of two award-winning short films in Poland and abroad: "Techno" (starring Leszek Abrahamowicz, Danuta Stenka, Michalina Olszańska) and "The Dress" (Anna Dzieduszycka, Dorota Pomy...2022-04-2641 minBest in FestSound Design for TV and Film with Craig Nimens of Sounddogs.com- Ep #57It's impossible to overstate how important a role audio plays in the film viewing experience. While it’s perfectly natural to be drawn to the visual side of filmmaking, those striking visuals don’t hold the same weight without strong cinematic sound design to back them up. Whereas a painting is purely visual and a song can be purely aural, cinema combines sight and sound for a unified experience where one bolsters and elevates the other. In this episode Leslie talks to Craig Nimens, the Vice President of Sound Dogs.com, Inc. a commercial online library of sound...2022-04-1930 minBest in FestNetflix or Bust: Creating a Career in Hollywood with Dan Abramovici - #56How do you get a film on Netflix and what the hell do you do when you get there? In this episode Leslie dives into industry secrets with young filmmaker, Dan Abramovici, who has worked his way in and realized there's way more to it than just that.Dan Abramovici is an actor, writer, and director. He was one of only 8 actors selected for Canada's prestigious CFC Actors Conservatory program in 2016 and is known for his TV work on shows like The Detail, Man Seeking Woman, and Murdoch Mysteries. After writing, producing, and starring in a series o...2022-04-1233 minBest in FestThe Last Acting Technique You'll Ever Need with John Swanbeck - Ep #54In this episode, Leslie speaks with Author/Director/Educator John Swanbeck about his profound acting techniques laid out in his book " How To Steal The Scene & End Up Playing The Lead". This is truly the last book you will ever need on acting. John also gives some helpful tips on how to work with actors as a director. Do NOT miss this episode. More About John:John Swanbeck is an author, columnist, speaker, creator and publisher of CleverActorTips, Chief Creative Officer of BlueSwanFilms, and Producing Director of The Character Factory. He is a...2022-03-2936 minBest in FestBuild a Career as a Jack of all Trades Filmmaker - Ep #53In this episode, Leslie talks with hybrid filmmaker (writer, director, producer, securing distribution, etc.) Sean Michael Beyer about Sean’s personal evolution within the film industry. how he approaches writing a new film, what inspired him to film “Randy’s Canvas,” a positive story about a kid with autism, his comedy podcast, “National Day Riff,” and how it was created.Sean also shares a few pieces of advice and a ‘dirty little secret’ for new filmmakers just starting out. Sean Michael Beyer social media:Facebook & Instagram: @ SeanMichaelBeyer2022-03-2243 minBest in FestHow to Get Your Independent Feature Film Distributed - Ep #52Kevin James Barry is a Los Angeles based screenwriter and director. Originally interested in painting, he attended art school during both his high school and college years and continues to bring his highly focused artistic eye to filmmaking. His feature films “Serena and the RATTS”, “Among Them”and "Gridlocked" were all acquired for DVD/VOD distribution in North America and several foreign territories.In this episode, Leslie talks with Kevin about film festivals and How he got his Independent feature distributed. Don't miss it!2022-03-1535 minBest in FestFrom Broadway to Hollywood as a Woman of Color with Gloria Gifford - Ep #51Leslie and her guest Gloria Gifford discuss her dynamic career as a woman of color including all of the hard earned lessons she learned working on Broadway and in Hollywood.Gloria Gifford taught at the American Film Institute for six years in the Masters' Program. She taught Directors, Writers and Producers and among her successful AFI students: Patty Jenkins (Monster (2003), Brian Dannelly (Saved! (2004), Weeds (2005).In 2007, Gloria opened the prestigious Actors Academy Milano in Milan, Italy, where she taught Italian actors and actresses and International Models - male and female in intensive acting programs. The Academy's...2022-03-0852 minBest in FestA Sales Agent's Advice for Selling Your Film - Ep #49In this information packed episode Leslie speaks with Sales Agent Jenny Hayden about the best ways to get the industry interested in your independent film. This is straight from an industry professional who has been in this world her entire career. You don't want to miss her advice. More about Jenny:Jenny Hayden has over twenty years of experience in the acquisition and distribution of award-winning television programs, films, and home video / DVD releases across all platforms in the US and globally. She's built a library from a catalog of 25 hours to...2022-02-2243 minBest in FestA Guide to the Screenwriting Process - Ep #48How do you write a great script that integrates well and allows the audience to accept the unacceptable? In this episode, Leslie has on Screenwriter James Napoli to break down his writing process Step by Step. If you're a writer or wanna be writer than you can't miss this episode of Best in Fest!More About James NapoliJames has a master’s in film from the London Film School. He began his career on a one-year temp assignment re-cataloguing the coverage library of the Walt Disney Studios, and there learned how to do...2022-02-1549 minBest in FestCreate Your Career in Film with Suzanne Johnson - Ep #47Producer/Actor Suzanne Johnson talks about her film "The World Without You" with Leslie in this episode of Best in Fest. The conversation quickly goes to how an Independent can further his or her career and Suzanne gave nuggets of gold. Build the right team and spend what you must to get them was the advice, because your film and career will depend on it. Suzanne gives anecdotes about her casting director Valerie McCaffrey and publicist Deborah Gilels and much more.2022-02-0838 minBest in FestThe Mystery Behind Writing a Great Script with BEN SZTAJNKRYCER - Ep #46In this episode Leslie speaks with multi award winning screenwriter Ben Sztajnkrycer. Listen in as they unravel the mystery of a great script and how to write one. Don't miss it.BEN SZTAJNKRYCER is an award winning screenwriter who works in both the U.S. and Canadian film industries. His supernatural thriller "Refuge" was shot in 2021, with Renny Harlin (“Cliffhanger”) directing and Yariv Lerner ("Angel Has Fallen"), Gary Lucchesi (“Million Dollar Baby”), Rob Van Norden ("The Protege") and Michael McKay ("Brahms: The Boy II") producing. He recently penned a horror adaptation for producer Jeremy Bolt (“Resident Evil...2022-02-0146 minBest in FestWhat Is In the Perfect Look Book - Ep #45Don't miss this episode! If you want to sell your independent film to a distributor or are looking for investors, this episode is essential for you. Leslie LaPage, the Director of LaFemme Film Festival and the host of Best in Fest, takes control and gives a detailed and specific outline of what you need to provide in every page of your Look Book.For the past fifteen years Leslie La Page has produced, directed and line produced for Film, TV, Music Videos, commercials and Theatrical productions.Ms. La Page has produced features nationally an...2022-01-2539 minBest in FestSecrets About Film Development in Hollywood with Garrick Dion - Ep #43Do you think a development executive turned screenplay writer might have some good advice? Then this episode is for you. Leslie sits down with Garrick Dion from LA-based management/production company 5X and the conversation is FIRE!!! More about Garrick:Having started his career as an intern for THE MATRIX producer Joel Silver, Garrick Dion has over 25 years of experience in the Film & Television industry. After a decade of working as a studio development exec for WB, New Regency and Artisan/Lionsgate, he migrated to “the other side of the desk”, as a screen...2022-01-1144 minBest in FestDances with Films Co-Founders Leslee Scallon & Michael Trent - Ep #42In this episode Leslie dives deep with Co-founders of Dances with Films to discuss what film festivals are looking for and how to improve your chances as a filmmaker to get your film accepted.LESLEE SCALLON & MICHAEL TRENT // Co-Founders A Regent Scholar at New York University, Michael Trent began his career as one of the youngest stage managers to receive an Equity production contract with Broadway and touring credits includ- ing the Julliard based Acting Company (touring arm of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.) and Lee Theodore’s American Danc...2022-01-0440 minBest in FestMarketing and Public Relations Tricks for Your Indie Film - Ep #41Leslie and Deborah Gilels discuss the real truths about marketing your Indie film from a PR Professional in Hollywood. Now, not every Publicist is a marketing person and not every marketing person is a publicist. In this episode, they also discuss promoting vs selling a film using a press release, niche marketing, social media, pitching to trades and much more.More About Deborah:Deborah Gilels has run a successful PR/Media Consulting company for the past 16 years, assisting writers, filmmakers, and actors with PR and Marketing activities including promoting feature films, shorts and do...2021-12-2838 minBest in FestSeeking Distribution as an Independent Filmmaker with Ilyssa Goodman - Ep #40How do you get your indie film made and distributed? Ilyssa Goodman says build your rolodex and know your market. In this episode Leslie and Ilyssa talk about writing, production and casting to make your project sellable to studios and distributors. More About Ilyssa:Director, producer, writer and distribution strategist Ilyssa Goodman has worked with many of Hollywood’s top young and established stars, and with her latest film, “#FBF”, in which Goodman wrote and directed for Timur Berkmambetov’s, Bazelevs Productions, Goodman can now add Ashley Judd to her list. #FBF which is current...2021-12-2140 minBest in FestWhat Do Film Distributors Look for with Megan Huggins from Gravitas - Ep #38From good sound design to proper formatting on deliverables, Leslie and her guest Megan Huggins from Gravitas dive deep on exactly what distributors are looking for in your film.Megan Huggins is the acquisitions coordinator for Gravitas Ventures, the largest indie all rights distributor in North America. In her time with Gravitas she has negotiated hundreds of feature film deals across VOD, theatrical and worldwide distribution. Megan is a dual Australian/American citizen who worked in corporate psychology and as a registered nurse before pursuing her passion for filmmaking. She is a champion for independent...2021-12-0736 minBest in FestCrossover Content and Emerging Trends in Animation with Marlene Sharpe - Ep #37Are you interested in being a creator of animation? In this information packed episode Leslie and Marlene discuss, global development of Animation in Japan, merchandising in AnimationCrossover content and trends in animation, the market for boys at specific ages, an animation market for girls, the difference between selling your show and producing your show, Web-comics and the new content creation platforms of Tapas and WebTune.More About MarleneMarlene Sharp is a creative and business-savvy entertainment multi-hyphenate who originally hails from New Orleans but is now a (San Fernando) Valley girl. F...2021-11-3041 minBest in FestTransition From Directing Commercials to Features with Justine Bertrand - Ep #35How do you transition from directing commercials to directing features? Are the structures similar? Are the skills transferable? In this episode, Leslie talks with a young director named Justing Bertrand about the differences between directing in France and directing in the US, the Me Too movement, sexism in the French culture and film industry, Justine's process as a director and much more.www.lafemme.org2021-11-1627 minBest in FestDeveloping Your Own Projects Successfully with Kathryne Isabelle Easton - Ep#34Sometimes you just have to do it yourself ... as long as it's in conjunction with someone else. In this episode, Leslie talks with Actress/Writer/Director Kathryne Isabelle Easton about developing her own horror franchise, her award winning short film Borrelia Borealis, how to navigate Hollywood as a woman and still stay true to your vision, pay inequity and much more.More about Kathryne:Kathryne Isabelle Easton attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City after studying theater for many years as a child in Syracuse, NY. She moved to L...2021-11-0942 minBest in FestLove in 2020: The Power of a Web Series - Ep #33What is it like to find love during a Worldwide pandemic? In this episode Leslie talks to the co-creators of the award winning web series "Love in 2020" about what it takes to create and film during Covid 19.Eirinn DisbrowI am an LA based director and editor who is passionate about telling women's stories. Credits include working in editorial on Paul Feig’s Ghostbusters (Sony), Jonathan Levine’s Snatched (FOX) and Long Shot (Lionsgate) as well as David Fincher’s Videosyncrasy (HBO). I edited the series My Dead Ex which premiered at SXSW in 2018 and I...2021-11-0230 minBest in FestFilmmakers of LaFemme 2021! - Ep #32In this very special episode Leslie brings you just a sample of the filmmakers that were featured at this year's LaFemme Film Festival. There was such a wonderful representation of fantastic projects driven by passionate women to choose from that we had to share them with you. 2021-10-2631 minBest in FestAdapting "The Outsiders" for the screen and Life After with Kathleen Rowell - Ep #31Kathleen Rowell wanted to be a novelist and ended up writing a huge film (none other than the Outsiders) as her first feature. How did this happen? In this episode, Leslie and Bridget dive into the reality of being a working Scriptwriter in Hollywood. There are some great tips in this episode.2021-10-1926 minBest in FestLaFemme Int'l Film Festival 2021 is Here! - Ep #30In this very special episode, Leslie is on the hot seat as she answers questions from Producer Phil about everything from the origins of LaFemme to how filmmakers should properly submit to a festival, common mistakes, what to expect at a festival, networking tips, how and why films are chosen, how the right festival can launch your career and much more.More About Leslie:For the past fifteen years Leslie La Page has produced, directed and line produced for Film, TV, Music Videos, commercials and Theatrical productions.Ms. La Page has...2021-10-1234 minBest in FestThe Re-birth of Television again with Bridget Terry - Ep #29Streaming and the pandemic are inextricably linked, so let's jump on the bandwagon! In this episode Leslie and Bridget dive into developing a storyline for streaming networks, trends in television, the rise of Sci-fi and women, finding your way into a pitch and behind the camera, ageism in Hollywood (ignore the elderly at your peril), made for TV movies, Ed Asner AND MUCH MORE!Bridget Terry has produced, written or directed a variety of award-winning television, including productions honored with the George Foster Peabody Award, ACE award, Christopher Humanitarian Award, Video Hall of Fame inductee, Action for C...2021-10-0539 minBest in FestFrom Martin Scorsese to the Morning Show with Ellen Gerstein - Ep #28Ellen Gerstein is an award winning actor/filmmaker. She is a member of: Women In Film, The Alliance of Women Directors, LA Film Team, Film Independent and is a lifetime member of The Actors Studio.As an actor Ellen has worked with talented directors including Martin Scorsese, Mark Rydell, Mimi Leder, Rob Marshall and Danny DeVito to name a few. She was honored with the Robert Proski Character Actor Award and the Roy W. Dean Screenwriters Grant. Ellen can be seen on the acclaimed FX show, Better Things as well as th...2021-09-2832 minBest in FestThe Hybrid Model for Women in Entertainment with Julie Janney - Ep #27Julie Janney has been a working actress for more than 30 years in film, television, and theatre. She has trained with world renowned producers, directors, and educators like Lee Strasberg and Nikos Psacharopoulis. She has also acted as Meryl Streep’s stunt double on seven feature films, and has performed on Broadway. Ms. Janney is a member of the several acting guilds and organizations and has taught acting and choreography for more than 30 years.In this episode, Leslie sits down with Julie to discuss being on stage both on and off broadway, her work on films like Popeye, Sc...2021-09-2137 minBest in FestThe Legal Gauntlet of TV & Film Contracts and Negotiations with Nina Ameri - Ep #26Contract negotiations got you down? Listen in as Leslie talks to Entertainment Attorney Nina Ameri the founder of the highly respected boutique law firm Ameri Law. Together, they discuss the ins and outs of drafting and negotiating talent agreements, Copyright law, development production and distribution deals, story rights and intellectual property, corporate selection and formation, investor agreements and much more.More About NinaThe entertainment industry is in my blood. My father was an editor and cinematographer who worked on some of the most groundbreaking films in the horror gore genre. I did...2021-09-1433 minBest in FestWriting A Proof of Concept with Janeane Bernstein - Ep #25Janeane Bernstein is a writer, speaker, radio host/producer at KUCI 88.9fm, and host of the new series, OUTSIDE THE BOX. She earned a doctorate from Boston University in Educational Media & Technology and graduated from Syracuse University with her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education & Communications. She is a 2021 Age Boom Academy Fellow with the Robert N. Butler Columbia Aging Center in partnership with Columbia Journalism. She first started writing at age 15 when her creative writing teacher told her, "There are no wrong answers." Her love of all things creative has helped her throughout life's ups an...2021-09-0735 minBest in FestFrom Published Book to Hollywood Script with Paul S Levine - Ep #24How do you get Hollywood interest in you script? Leslie's guest Attorney and Literary Agent Paul S Levine says, one very interesting way is to reverse engineer a book from your script, get it published creating the IPO and then go to the studios and distributors. The best part about it is that you get paid multiple times instead of just the $100K as a first time independent script writer. Leslie and Paul also discuss how and why to set up a writing partnership, necessary legal agreements to avoid future problems and much more.Paul S...2021-08-3142 minBest in Fest10 Things Hollywood Writers Must Know with Rosanne Welch - Ep #23Dr. Rosanne Welch is the Executive Director of the Stephens College MFA in TV and Screenwriting, a program whose goal is to bring more female and underrepresented voices and female-focused stories into mainstream media. Her current books include Why The Monkees Matter: Teenagers, Television and American Pop Culture (McFarland Publishing, 2017) and Women in American History: A Social, Political, and Cultural Encyclopedia and Document Collection (ABC-CLIO, 2017), which she co-edited with her CalPoly Pomona colleague and officemate, Dr. Peg Lamphier. In her previous life, Welch was a television writer/producer with credits that include Beverly Hills 90210, Picket Fences and T...2021-08-2426 minBest in FestSouth by Southwest Can Launch Your Career with Rebekah Miskin- Ep #22"Actors are writers" says Leslie's guest Actor, Writer, Director, Producer, Rebekah Miskin. In this episode, Rebekah discusses her short film "Night Owl" as well as how to create a show bible and then a really strong pitch... and there's a difference between pitching to networks and pitching to streamers.More About RebekahActor/Director/Writer/Producer, Rebekah Miskin created the web series, NIGHT OWL which had its World Premiere at SXSW to stellar reviews & sold out screenings. John Doyle of The Globe & Mail said of NIGHT OWL: “It has the layered ric...2021-08-1743 minBest in FestGet Paid for Your Sci-Fi and Horror Content with Sophie Carroll - EP #21Want to get paid for your Sci-FI or Horror short film? Perhaps you can even get it made into a feature! In this episode, Leslie talks with Sophie Carrol the Senior Manager of Acquisitions at Gunpowder & Sky. She drops some serious knowledge about what this groundbreaking short film platform is looking for from its content creators. Don't forget to have your materials prepared, you just might get tapped for success. Do not miss this episode!Gunpowder & Sky is a fast-growing indie studio known for larger-than-life stories about groundbreaking music and musicians, pop culture and issues th...2021-08-1034 minBest in FestProducing Films From Lethal Weapon to Free Willy with Jennie Lew Tugend - Ep #20Do you want tips from someone who's responsible for producing major motion pictures in Hollywood? In this episode, Leslie sits down with acclaimed producer Jennie Lew Tugend to discuss how to secure funding for a film during the pandemic, strategies for an exceptionally strong pitch, how to create the perfect log-line, writing for a budget, trends in the industry, adapting a book into a screenplay, when and how to attract a producer to your film and much more.JENNIE LEW TUGEND has produced and co-produced some of the industry’s most memorable franchises: The Free Willy tri...2021-08-0349 minBest in FestTravel the World and Change Lives with Director Ivana Todorovic - Ep #19Get ready for some incredible Independent film marketing tips as Leslie and Ivana discuss navigating the film circuit, getting your film funded, short film vs. feature film marketing strategies, the structure of filming a documentary and how to create social revolution through filmmaking.Ivana Todorović is a director of short, socially-engaging films in Belgrade and New York City. Her fiction film "When I'm at Home" (2019, Belgrade) won the Best Narrative Short at LA Women's Independent Film awards, Best Narrative Short at Socially Relevant Film festival in NYC. Future Film Award at IFFBH Festival in Paris, Best Student Fi...2021-07-2738 minBest in FestThe Business of Being A Filmmaker with Raeann Giles - Ep #18From Actor to Writer to Producer, Raeann Giles has done it all... or at least a lot. In this episode, Leslie and Raeann discuss how to find representation, tips to launch on Amazon, how to find your audience, casting challenges and choices, tragedy in filmmaking, leveraging into future projects, the structure of a film, the writing process and much more.Raeann Giles is a multi-ethnic writer/actor, graduate of UCLA’s MFA School of Theater, Film and Television in Screenwriting and the creator of the award winning digital series, “Playdates Anonymous” and “Stay At Home Mom” which she wrote...2021-07-2042 minBest in FestDiversification and Inclusion at Sony Pictures Ent. with Brett King - Ep #17There is a massive push for diverse talent at Sony through the diversification and inclusion program run by VP, Creative Programming, Diversity & Inclusion Brett King. If you are trying to break in to Hollywood, this episode is packed with information as Leslie and Brett discuss Sony's Diverse Writers Program and Diverse Directors Program, what types of writers and directors Sony is looking for, mentorship and development opportunities, how to craft a personal narrative and much more...Brett King is Vice President, Creative Programming, Diversity & Inclusion forSony Pictures Entertainment, where he works with both Sony Pictures T...2021-07-1337 minBest in FestHow To Craft a Documentary with Sonya Winterberg - Ep #16There is the dream of finding funding for your film and then there's the reality of how it happens. In this episode, Leslie and Sonya break down the process of making a documentary, discuss historical Jewish stories, working in Afghanistan, finding the right editor and much more.SONYA WINTERBERG is an award-winning writer and documentary director with roots in Finland and Germany. For most of her career, her work focused on women and children in armed conflicts and post-war situations. Sonya reported on major news events such as the aftermath of the war in Bosnia, the 2005 Kashmir e...2021-07-0634 minBest in FestOvercome the Challenges of Selling an Ethnic Film with Judy Naidoo - Ep #15The world was largely unaware that there is a large Indian community in South Africa... until Judy Naidoo. In this episode, Leslie and Judy discuss feature film distribution, the film festival circuit, independent film grants, the virtues of being a proactive filmmaker and much more.Judy Naidoo is a South African independent filmmaker. She holds a Masters Degree in Producing from the National Film and Television School (NFTS) in the United Kingdom. She was the recipient of two scholarships that enabled her to pursue this degree: the Ford Foundation International Fellowships Award and later the Trevor Jones S...2021-06-2931 minBest in FestDiversity in Film with Veronika Kurz - Ep #14How do you convince risk adverse people to fund your film? Some filmmakers go as far as actually shooting a short to use as a proof of concept, In this episode, Leslie and Veronika talk about the best ways to advance your career in film like choosing between big film festivals vs. targeted film festivals, how to work with kids on set, finding the right collaborators, putting story and characters first, how to utilize your editor, the necessity of a script supervisor and much more.Veronika Kurz is an award-winning director whose work spans a wide variety...2021-06-2241 minBest in FestFund Your Independent Film with Kymberly Harris - #12Have you ever heard of a film festival curator? If you're doing the festival circuit a good curator can mean the difference between success and failure. Leslie and Kymberly get deep into the details as well as how to find the perfect director of photography and specific techniques for actors who are blocked.2021-06-0844 minBest in FestBreak Into Hollywood as a Writer in the Current Climate with Cynthia Riddle - Ep #10Leslie talks with ex-development exec and current TV and Film writer Cynthia Riddle about what Hollywood is looking for in today's environment, how to get in the door and find management and agent representation, the value of film festivals and writing contests, how to get staffed on a show and much, much more... This episode is a bit longer, but the flow of information is fantastic!CYNTHIA RIDDLE worked as a development executive for MGM and segued into a writing and producing deal with the studio. She has written movies and series episodes for CBS, Hallmark Hall...2021-05-2557 min