The Reel Girls Club

In this episode of The Reel Girls Club, I'm joined by Swiss/French Writer & Director, Julie Magnaudet, whose work shines a light on the complexities of women's lives. With a background in both writing and filmmaking, Julie brings a sharp eye for storytelling that blends intimate character work with broader social themes,Her latest short film, The Contraception Fair - produced by Candid Broads Productions - offers a witty yet poignant look at contraception, autonomy, and the cultural narratives that shape women's choices.In honor of World Contraception Day, Julie shares the inspiration behind the project, her creative process as a writer and director, and the importance of telling stories that challenge stigma and spark conversation.It's an engaging discussion about cinema, reproductive rights, and the power of women behind the camera,Learn more about Julie's work here: juliemagnaudet.comWatch The Contraception Fair trailer here; The Contraception Fair — Candid Broads Productions

In this special bonus episode, I'm joined by Oscar-nominated (The Edge Of Democracy) filmmaker Petra Costa to discuss her powerful new documentary Apocalypse In The Tropics, now streaming on Netflix.The film explores the rise of evangelical power in Brazilian politics and the erosion of democracy through a deeply personal lens. Petra shares the story behind the making of the film, her creative process, and what it means to document history in real time.A short but essential conversation with one of the most fearless voices in contemporary documentary filmmaking today.Watch Apocalypse In The Tropics on Netflix hereDisclaimer: This conversation includes discussion of religion and its role in politics.

In this special bonus episode, I'm joined by directors and writers, Vickie Curtis and Doug Anderson, from the US, to discuss their powerful new documentary 'COMPARSA', which will be premiering at the Sheffield DocFest 2025.Set in Ciudad Peronia, Guatemela, the film follows sisters Lesli and Lupe, whose activism is ignited by the 2017 fire at a state-run children's home that killed 41 girls - a tragedy emblematic of Guatemala's wider crisis of gender-based violence. Told through the eyes of young women who have survived and endured, Comparsa captures a powerful journey of healing and resistance. Through music, dance, and collective protest, Lesli & Lupe lead their community in reclaiming space, voice, and dignity.The filmmakers share how they approached this deeply sensitive story, the role of creative collaboration, and what it means to bear witness to the strength of girls rising up.Comparsa premieres at the upcoming Sheffield DocFest on the following dates:Sat 21 June 20:45 - 22:24Curzon - Screen 1English Subtitles ThroughoutQ&A with directors Vickie Curtis and Doug Anderson, and protagonists Marta Chicoj, Lesli and Lupe Perez. Moderated by Mathy Selvakumaran.Sun 22 June 12:45 - 14:24The Light - Screen 9English Subtitles ThroughoutQ&A with directors Vickie Curtis and Doug Anderson, and protagonists Marta Chicoj, Lesli and Lupe Perez. Moderated by Amy Bryant.To book your tickets, follow the link HERE.Disclaimer: the sound drops out at 1:44 (the word intended was 'teenagers'), at 3:18 (word: seamstress) and again at 8:11.

From Cosmopolitan to the Cutting Room: Louise Ford on Editing Robert Egger's VisionIn this episode, I sit down with UK-born, NYC-based, Louise Ford, A.C.E., a dynamic creative force whose career journey has taken her from the fast-paced world of magazine journalism as a former Deputy Editor at Cosmopolitan UK to the immersive realm of film editing - where she's become a trusted collaborator of visionary director Robert Eggers (Nosferatu, The Witch, The Lighthouse, The Northman).In this episode, you'll learn:How Louise transitioned from print media to film post-productionWhat it's like editing for a filmmaker known for his atmospheric intensity and historical precisionThe creative and technical challenges of cutting films like NosferatuHer approach to storytelling through editing - and why rhythm, intuition, and trust are everythingHow she collaborates with directors and maintains her creative voiceAdvice for aspiring editors and her own inspirations in film editing... and so much more!Whether you're a filmmaker, editor, or just a lover of behind-the-scenes movie magic, Louise offers insight, honesty, and wisdom about the art of shaping a story frame by frame.Tune in and be inspired by a career that proves reinvention is not only possible - it can lead to your most fulfilling work!

In this bonus episode of The Reel Girls Club, I dive into the hauntingly beautiful short film Diary of a Ghost, directed by Caroline Hajny and written by Maren Koenigs. The film, which stars Genevieve Chenneour, Mia Rodgers, and Alfie Noble, explores love, loss, and grief with a deeply atmospheric and evocative approach.I'm joined by director Caroline Hajny and actor Alfie Noble for an insightful conversation about the creative process behind bringing this poignant story to life. They discuss how they captured the film's unique atmosphere, the challenges of telling such an intimate and emotional story, and what makes Diary of a Ghost such an important story to tell.You'll learn about:How Caroline Hajny and Maren Koenigs found the perfect cast for the film.The process behind capturing the film’s rich atmosphere, and the artistic decisions made to evoke such a strong emotional response.Insights from Alfie Noble on his role in the film and the experience of working on such a moving project.Tune in to hear all about this incredible short film and the talented women leading the charge behind it.CherryPick Presents:Event: Screening & Panel Discussion: Actors On ActingAn intimate screening of the short film Diary Of A Ghost followed by a Q&A with SAG-nominated actress Genevieve Chenneour (Bridgerton), Alfie Noble (Witness For The Prosecution) and Mia Rodgers (The Sex Lives Of College Girls) hosted by presenter and actress Zainab Jiwa.07 April 2025Clos Up Cinema Londondoors: 5.30pmstart: 6pmFollow @ReelGirlsClub on Instagram for more updates & content.

In today's episode, I'm joined by two-time Oscar-nominated production designer, Judy Becker, from the US, whose work includes Brokeback Mountain, American Hustle, Carol and most recently,The Brutalist. Judy takes us behind the scenes of these iconic films, sharing her creative process and the challenges she faced in designing their unique worlds. We discuss how she collaborates with directors to bring their visions to life, as well as her approach to visual storytelling and 'method' production design. Judy also offers invaluable advice for aspiring production designers looking to break into the industry.In this episode, you'll learn:How Judy approached the production design for The Brutalist and other films such as American Hustle, Carol & Brokeback MountainThe process behind collaborating with directors to visually shape and bring their vision to lifeWhat she means by 'method' production design and an organic processValuable advice for aspiring production designersTime was limited, but I've included links below to other fascinating articles and interviews with Judy if you want to dig deeper intop her remarkable career and creative process. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business!Watch the trailer for The Brutalist hereInside the Set | The Brutalist | Patricia Cuccia SDSA & Judy Becker - YouTubeMaking The Decision To Be A Production Designer and Nothing Else by Judy Becker of CAROL - YouTubeBrady Corbet, Mona Fastvold, Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, and More on The Brutalist | NYFF62 - YouTubePart 1/3 Review - Reframing “The Brutalist”: Exploring Bauhaus and Marcel Breuer’s Hidden Influence - YouTubeSBIFF 2025 - Variety Artisans Judy Becker Discussion (Production Design - The Brutalist) - YouTubeTHE BRUTALIST Q&A with Mona Fastvold and Judy Becker || Sag Harbor Cinema - YouTubePodcast edited by Christopher Breckon.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Croatian make up & hair designer, Ivana Primorac - one of the most renowned in the film industry today. From creating iconic looks in Atonement andThe Hours to her work more recently on Barbie, Lee & We Live In Time, Ivana's artistry has brought countless characters to life.We dive into her creative process, the challenges of balancing historical accuracy with artistic interpretation, and her experiences working with some of the biggest names in Hollywood.Whether you're a film buff, a budding makeup artist, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of movie-making, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights.What you'll learn in this episode:How Ivana approaches character design and storytelling through makeup and hairThe role of collaboration in the filmmaking processStories from her career working in award-winning films alongside the likes of Margot Robbie, Kate Winslet, Greta Gerwig, Nicole Kidman & Florence PughAdvice for aspiring artists looking to break into the industry...and so much more!Enjoy & thank you for listening!

TW: The following discusses themes of SA.Today, in a BFI London Film Festival Special Bonus Episode, I'm joined by Japanese Journalist, Filmmaker & Women's Rights Activist, Shiori Ito.In this short but insightful conversation, we discuss her recent documentary 'Black Box Diaries', which recently premiered at the BFI London Film Festival and will have it's UK cinema release on the 25th of October 2024.Shiori is known for her role in challenging Japan's legal and cultural attitudes toward sexual violence. In 2015, Shiori accused high-profile journalist Noriyuki Yamaguchi of raping her while she was unconscious, a case that brought significant attention to issues of consent and sexual assault in Japan. After the authorities declined to prosecute, Shiori filed a civil lawsuit and won in 2019, becoming a symbol for the MeToo movement in Japan.Her work has sparked broader conversations about gender inequality, victim-blaming, and the need for legal reforms in Japan's handling of sexual violence. In 2020, Shiori was named one of TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People, recognising her bravery in confronting Japan's culture of silence around sexual violence.Shiori is also author of 'Black Box' (2017), a memoir detailing her personal experience of sexual assault and her fight for justice.In 2018, Shiori also directed the documentary 'Japan's Secret Shame', which aired on the BBC.Shiori continues to advocate for survivors and raise awareness through her investigative journalism and public speaking.If you or anyone you know is affected by the themes discussed above or in the podcast, here are some useful resources:National Hotlines - Victim Connect Resource CenterNational Sexual Assault Hotline: Confidential 24/7 Support | RAINNSexual Assault and Rape Resources | Joyful Heart FoundationFind Help | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)Want to talk? | Rape Crisis England & WalesHelp after rape and sexual assault - NHSThe national domestic abuse and sexual violence support line - 3919 - is now available in 185 languages - Women For Women FranceInformation and support - MindSamaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen

In today's episode, I'm joined by Weronika Tofilska. Weronika is a Polish Director & Screenwriter based in London. Following studies at the Krzysztof Kieślowski Film School in Poland before later graduating from the National Film and Television School in England, she's gone on to direct the hit Netflix miniseries Baby Reindeer this year. She was also recently nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her work on the series' fourth episode. Weronika also worked as co-writer alongside Rose Glass on the romantic thriller, Love Lies Bleeding, starring Kristen Stewart.We chat about her studies both in Poland and the UK, her creative process when directing and the differences when working as a co-writer on a feature film, and much more!You can find more info about her work on Weronika's website hereFollow Reel Girls Club on Instagram hereThanks for listening!

In today's brand new 1ST episode of season 3 of the podcast, I'm joined by Ninna Pálmadóttir.Ninna, from Iceland, is a Film Director & Writer. Her filmography includes short films Paper Boy, which was the winner of the Edda Award for Best Short Film in 2020, & All Dogs Die. Her debut feature film Solitude, premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival. Solitude is a multilayered and heartfelt story about an old farmer who has to relocate to the city and forms a bond with his local paper boy and neighbor.In this episode, we chat about Ninna's formative years in Iceland, studying at TISCH in NYU and how she came to direct her first feature and much more!For more info check out Ninna's IMDb HERE!

In today's episode, I'm joined by Sophia Hardman. Sophia is a Foley Editor and Mixer from the UK who has worked on blockbuster films such as 1917 by Sam Mendes, House of Gucci by Ridley Scott and No Time To Die by Cary Joji Fukunaga as well as TV shows like Black Mirror and The Tourist.We chat about Sophia's career beginnings at Twickenham studios, what some of the most common props used in a foley studios are, her advice for people wanting to work in foley and much more.Disclaimer: ironically (while interviewing an expert sound person) my sound is not so great (mic gain issues) and you may also hear the odd motorbike passing my house, a car, birds tweeting...etc etc. No I was not experimenting with my own foley art. But that's the last time I record downstairs in my living room...but you can still hear the interview fine, so let's just say it adds some atmosphere!You can check out her impressive resume on IMdb here: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6830147/Mubi Profile: https://mubi.com/en/cast/sophia-hardmanLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/sophiahardman?original_referer=

In today's episode, I'm joined by Mariayah Kaderbhai, of British Asian heritage, who is Head of Programmes at BAFTA. While you all may know BAFTA for the awards ceremony, it's also a membership organisation and charity that supports, develops, and promotes the arts of film, television and video games in the UK.BAFTA also has an international programme of events and initiatives offering access to talent through workshops, masterclasses, scholarships, lectures, and mentoring schemes in the United Kingdom and the United States.In this episode, we talk about Mariayah's career beginnings at the BFI and Al Jazeera English, she also shares her advice for interviewing film stars and documentary filmmakers as well as what BAFTA offers for those interested in working in the film industry, and much more,Links for information mentioned in podcast:Podcast: Countdown To The BAFTAs | BAFTABAFTA Connect Membership | BAFTAAbout BAFTA Membership | BAFTAJob Vacancies | BAFTABAFTA - Opportunities @ Creative AccessDisclaimer: podcast episodes are recorded on Zoom therefore the audio quality may reflect this. The episode was recorded in January 2024 so when I say next month for the BAFTAS, I mean February.