The MAKE IT Podcast

WHAT IS FILM BRIEF?Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking.BRIEF:In this Film Brief, Nick explores a young Black man's journey through his Oakland neighborhood to a barbershop. The episode examines how this student film showcased Coogler's early mastery of visual storytelling and cultural representation, serving as a foundation for his later acclaimed works. Through detailed analysis, Buggs demonstrates how "Locks" proves that meaningful filmmaking doesn't require massive budgets, just precision, intention, and authentic storytelling.TAKEAWAYS:• The power of symbolism and visual narrative in short films • How limited resources can strengthen rather than weaken a film's impact • The importance of short films as training grounds for emerging filmmakers • Community support and collaboration in independent filmmaking • The connection between early student work and future Hollywood successMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Ryan Coogler (director)Locks (2009)Oakland, CaliforniaUniversity of Southern CaliforniaFruitvale Station (2013)CreedBlack PantherSundance Film FestivalSundance Grand Jury PrizeSundance Audience AwardEbook: "Mastering Film Marketing"We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: www.themakeitpodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at www.shopify.com/makeitHello, Hello! In this episode, filmmaker and director Motke Dapp returns to discuss his journey from a nomadic childhood to becoming a successful commercial director and feature filmmaker. The conversation explores the realities of independent filmmaking, the importance of building a creative community, and the challenges of balancing artistic vision with commercial viability. Motke shares insights from his experience directing Another Version of You and his current work creating commercials for Whisker's Litter Robot.We also talk about:• The essential tools needed to start filmmaking and building a crew through community connections• Whether independent filmmakers actually watch independent films, and the time constraints that limit viewing• The role of celebrity and notoriety in achieving commercial success in filmmaking• Handling conflict and collaboration on set while maintaining creative relationships• The choice between making passion projects versus commercially viable filmsPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:Micah Simms (cinematographer)Ken Conrad (editor)Nichole Marie LimKim "Cookie" McCrayCiciley HoffmanSara AntonioEcca VandalChristopher NolanA24Ben ProudfootAnother Version of YouTangerinePrimerIron LungSugar GlassSchindler's ListDunkirkHair LoveInocenteDaVinci ResolveCanon 5D Mark camerasRed camerasWhisker (Litter-Robot)MTVKickstarterSeed & Spark48 Hour Film ProjectNashville 54 Hour Film FestSundance Film FestivalDenver, ColoradoNashville, TennesseeMontanaWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!In this episode, Colombian American writer-director Nick Lopez discusses his journey from an international upbringing to USC film school graduate, sharing insights about his award-winning short films, including "Milk Teeth" and "Sunshine Room." He opens up about the importance of representing queer and Latin American voices in cinema, his collaborative approach to filmmaking, and his current project, "West's Neighborhood," a web series exploring racism in American suburbia. Nick also provides practical advice for aspiring filmmakers about film school, budget constraints, and the creative process.We also talk about:• The challenges and benefits of attending film school versus independent learning • Building compelling short films from "outside in" rather than character-first approaches • The democratization of content through streaming platforms and its impact on diverse storytelling • Working with limited budgets while maintaining high production values • The importance of sound design and practical effects in low-budget filmmakingPeople, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:Nick LopezTiffany Lin Felipe VargasUniversity of Southern California (USC)Milk TeethSunshine RoomFlour BabyPan's LabyrinthGuillermo del ToroRyan MurphyPoseDesperate HousewivesAmerica's Next Top ModelPluto TVnicklopezfilms.comnic.lopezz on InstagramWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!WHAT IS FILM BRIEF?Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking.BRIEF:In this episode, host Nick explores "Papillon," an animated short film by Florence MIAL that tells the powerful story of Olympic swimmer Alfred Nakash, a Jewish athlete whose life was forever changed by the Holocaust. The film uses hand-painted oil-on-glass animation to create a dreamlike visual experience that flows between memories of triumph and tragedy. Through water as a storytelling metaphor, the film captures themes of memory, resilience, and the quiet power of human dignity in the face of unimaginable loss.TAKEAWAYS:• Florence MIAL's unique oil paint on glass animation technique that creates living, breathing artwork • Alfred Nakash's journey from childhood fear of water to Olympic competition at the 1936 Berlin Olympics • The impact of the Vichy Regime and the Holocaust on Nakash's life and family • The film's success on the international festival circuit and Academy Award nomination • How minimalist storytelling can create maximum emotional impactMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Florence Miailhe (Director)Marie Desplechin (Co-writer)Alfred NakacheConstantine, AlgeriaBerlin Olympics (1936)Auschwitz concentration campBerlin International Film FestivalAnnecy Animation FestivalClermont-Ferrand Film FestivalAcademy AwardsCésar AwardsCrystal Bear AwardPaint-on-glass animation techniqueEbook: "Mastering Film Marketing"The MAKE IT PodcastWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is brought to you by Anthropic. Claude is the AI for minds that don’t stop at good enough—it's the collaborator that actually understands your entire workflow and thinks WITH you, not for you. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude Pro when you use our link – www.claude.ai/makeitThis episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at www.shopify.com/makeit---Hello, Hello!In this Indie Talk, we dive deep into the latest film industry developments, including Netflix's multi-million dollar acquisition of Ben Affleck's AI startup and Google's expansion into micro dramas with Range Media Partners. We explore how AI is reshaping filmmaking workflows, debate whether film festivals should include children's programming, and discuss the growing trend of vertical video content in entertainment. We also break down the recent Oscar winners, share audience poll results about preferred film genres, and offer our insights on snubs and surprises from this year's Academy Awards ceremony.We also talk about: • The controversy surrounding Timothy Chalamet's comments about ballet and opera being "irrelevant art forms." • How streaming has changed music structure and incentives, paralleling changes in film content• The disconnect between what audiences watch most (action/adventure at 65%) versus what wins awards (drama/thriller) • International film recommendations, including "No Other Choice" as a major snub • The future of micro dramas and whether they'll follow Quibi's failed model or succeed globallyPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:NetflixBen AffleckRange Media PartnersQuibiNew York International Children's Film FestivalOne Battle After AnotherSinnersHamnetF1The BrideFrankensteinPaul Thomas AndersonMichael B. JordanJessie BuckleyConan O'BrienTrevor NoahGaithersburg, MarylandNorth CarolinaSouth CarolinaAustraliaWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!In this episode, Alex and Allison discuss the unexpected career pivot of Toronto talent agent Teri Ritter, who transitioned from a 30-year career in corporate accounting to managing actors. Inspired by her daughter Maya's success in film, Ritter applied her strategic planning skills to build a profitable roster. They highlight the importance of professionalism in the industry, the risks of a poor digital footprint, and the strategic timing of joining unions. They also touch on the challenges of representing child actors and the evolving roles within the agency, exemplified by Maya's return to the industry as an agent. The conversation underscores the balance between artistic talent and business strategy in the entertainment industry.We also talk about:• The myth that talent alone guarantees success in the entertainment industry • How digital footprints can permanently derail acting careers decades later • Strategic timing for union membership and why joining too early can be career suicide • The toxic dynamics of pushy stage parents and child actors • Maya Ritter's full-circle journey from child star to talent agentPeople, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:Teri Ritter (Toronto Talent Agent) Ritter Talent Agency Maya Ritter (Child actor turned agent) Amy HinesHines Management Mike Lummis (Agent) ACTRA (Canadian actors' union) Julia Roberts Molly Ringwald Toronto Casting CommunityWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

WHAT IS FILM BRIEF?Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking.BRIEF:In this brief, host Nick explores Mary Bronstein's psychological drama "If I Had Legs, I'd Kick You," starring Rose Byrne in a raw portrayal of mental health struggles and emotional collapse. The film defies traditional narrative structures, instead offering an intimate look at a woman whose world slowly fractures under invisible pressures. Through Bronstein's unconventional storytelling approach, the movie forces viewers to confront discomfort and develop empathy for those experiencing quiet psychological crises.TAKEAWAYS:• Mary Bronstein's filmmaking approach and her previous work "Yeast" (2008) • Rose Byrne's dramatic departure from her typical comedic roles • The film's festival circuit premiere on October 10, 2025, and its critical reception • How the ambiguous title serves as a metaphor for helplessness and lost agency • The importance of cinema that prioritizes understanding over entertainmentMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:If I Had Legs, I'd Kick You (2025)Mary BronsteinRose ByrneYeast (2008)BridesmaidsNeighborsStar WarsDead Poets Society"Mastering Film Marketing: A Filmmaker's Guide to Crafting Impactful Marketing Campaigns for Independent Films"We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Learn more about Jefferson White here:Hello, Hello!Jefferson White discusses his evolving definition of success in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of having control over creative choices and working with people you care about. He reflects on how his goals have changed from wanting to get on a show like Yellowstone to now prioritizing creative fulfillment and collaborative energy on projects of any size. White shares his perspective that "making it" is an ongoing process rather than a destination, requiring continuous growth and openness to change.We also talk about: • The feeling of helplessness that actors can experience in the entertainment industry • How definitions of success evolve throughout an actor's career • The value of independent filmmaking and creative collaboration • Behind-the-scenes photography as a way to document the creative process • The importance of supporting independent films financially, not just verballyProducts, Software, Websites, People, or Places Mentioned: Jefferson White (actor)Yellowstone (TV show)Drink and Be Merry (independent film)We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Learn more about Jefferson White here:Hello, Hello!Jefferson joins Producer Papa Bear for our "Things We Should Know" segment. The discussion reveals surprising facts about Academy Award winners from Iowa, including the remarkable achievement of Cloris Leachman as the only Iowa-born actor to win a BAFTA, Oscar, Golden Globe, and Emmy. The conversation features guest Jefferson White and covers the rich acting heritage that has emerged from the Midwest state.We also talk about: • The challenge of identifying Iowa's most decorated actor among the limited Oscar winners from the state • Comparisons between notable Iowa actors, including John Wayne, Elijah Wood, and Ashton Kutcher • The impressive award collection of Cloris Leachman, with 24 wins and 53 nominations • Historical television programming conventions like separate beds in classic shows • An eerie coincidence involving the birth and death dates of Iowa actressesPeople, Places, and Things Mentioned: Jefferson White (guest)Cloris LeachmanJohn WayneElijah WoodAshton KutcherJason MomoaDonna ReedJustin TimberlakeIowa StateDes Moines, IowaWinterset, IowaThe Last Picture ShowTrue GritFrom Here to EternityThe Donna Reed ShowThat '70s ShowPunk'dThe Butterfly EffectDirk Gently's Holistic Detective AgencyLord of the RingsBAFTA AwardsAcademy Awards (Oscars)Golden Globe AwardsEmmy AwardsChick-fil-A Polynesian sauceWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Learn more about Jefferson White here:Hello, Hello! Yellowstone star Jefferson White joins us for an in-depth Filmmaker Q&A about the creative process, independent filmmaking, and building a sustainable career in entertainment. White discusses his production company, Means of Productions, the philosophy behind choosing independent projects over big-budget work, and how constraints often lead to the most creative solutions. The conversation explores the balance between commercial television success and passion projects, emphasizing the importance of long-term collaborations and continuous learning through hands-on experience.We also talk about: • The creative freedom found in low-budget independent films versus high-stakes television productions • How photography serves as both a creative outlet and a practical tool for staying present on set • The Peter Falk/John Cassavetes model of using commercial success to finance personal artistic projects • Building a sustainable filmmaking community through long-term partnerships and collaborative learning • Upcoming projects include a Kennedy assassination film and a Rambo prequelPeople, Places, Products & Software Mentioned: Jefferson White (Yellowstone actor)Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone creator/writer)Peter FalkJohn Cassavetes (filmmaker)Adam Volerich (cinematographer)Terence Cray (sound engineer/editor/director)Jeff Rutherford (script writer)John Kirby (documentary filmmaker)Libby Handros (documentary filmmaker)Dick GregoryGeraldo RiveraMartin McDonagh (playwright - The Pillowman, Banshees of Inisherin)Don Watts (theater director)Means of Productions (Jefferson's production company)Iowa State University M Shop theaterCaravan (short film)Drink and Be MerryMisprintNovember 1963 (Film in Production)John Rambo prequelNikon FM 10Pentax 6x7Nikon FYellowstone (TV series)Winnipeg, ManitobaFour Died Trying (documentary)We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is brought to you by Anthropic. Claude is the AI for minds that don’t stop at good enough—it's the collaborator that actually understands your entire workflow and thinks WITH you, not for you. Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off your first three months of Claude Pro when you use our link – www.claude.ai/makeitThis episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at www.shopify.com/makeitHello, Hello! In this episode, we sit down with actor Jefferson White (Yellowstone, Chicago PD) to discuss his latest indie film "Drink and Be Merry," which he made for just $60,000. White shares insights about balancing big-budget TV work with passion projects, the importance of long-term creative collaborations, and how he uses photography as a creative outlet between acting jobs. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of independent filmmaking, the art of auditioning, and White's journey from small-town Iowa to Hollywood success.We also talk about:• White's collaboration with director Adam Volderic and their production company, Means of Productions • The creative constraints and advantages of micro-budget filmmaking versus big-budget productions • White's upcoming projects include a Lee Harvey Oswald role and a Rambo prequel • The psychology of playing villains and the importance of empathy in character development • White's background in Iowa theater and his formative acting teacher, Matt FossPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:Drink and Be MerryYellowstoneChicago PDThe Matrix ReloadedIn the Mood for LoveIt Was Just an AccidentThe Secret AgentNo Other ChoiceThe Last Picture ShowTrue GritFrom Here to EternityThe HoldoversTaxi DriverEast of EdenOne Battle After AnotherThe BrutalistEverything Everywhere All at OnceThe SubstanceAdam VolerichLeo WintersMatt FossTaylor SheridanHeath LedgerJoaquin PhoenixSean PennBenicio Del ToroCloris LeachmanDonna ReedJohn WaynePaul Thomas AndersonWong Kar WaiMartin McDonaghMount Vernon, IowaIowa State UniversityWinnipeg, ManitobaDes MoinesNikon FM10Pentax 6x7Nikon F (1962)Hattie B'sPrince's Hot ChickenBishop's (Nashville Meat & 3 Restaurant)Eye of the Duck ShowThe Ale N Wich BarM Shop TheaterWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!In this episode, we dive deep into filmmaker Kali Bailey's unconventional path to the director's chair, exploring what she calls the "Swiss Army Knife approach" - mastering every job on set before directing. The conversation reveals both the advantages and dangerous pitfalls of being too competent at jobs you don't actually want, including the psychological challenge of rebranding yourself in an industry that loves to keep you in familiar boxes. From her defining moment watching Lord of the Rings at 14 to her viral Harry Potter fan film, Kali's story illustrates the complex balance between building comprehensive skills and avoiding the "curse of competence."We also talk about:• The specific technical language that gives directors credibility with crew members• Advanced editing techniques, including avoiding "ping pong editing" and focusing on reactions• Aaron Sorkin's "marble slab" approach to overcoming writer's block• Strategic decisions about film distribution: festivals versus direct-to-audience platforms• Navigating identity as a gay filmmaker in conservative marketsPeople, Places, Products, and References Mentioned: Kali Bailey (filmmaker)The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the KingSam GamgeeFrodoDisney PlusNissanNetflix"A Week Away" (Netflix musical)Bill Zahn (Pixar character artist)Aaron Sorkin"The Wasp" (short film)"Neville Longbottom and the Black Witch" (Harry Potter fan film)SundanceTribeca (film festival)Southern Baptist ChurchGeorge LucasStar WarsMarvelOpal diffusion gelSource Episode: https://redcircle.com/shows/e5ef7af1-b154-4271-a463-fee78baaca9e/ep/d26a987a-560d-4b72-adac-dd907d9992efWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy