We dive into an engaging conversation with Stephen Degenaro, an actor turned producer with over two decades in the industry. Stephen shares his journey from starting out in acting, facing the challenges of auditions and indie film sets, to ultimately stepping into the roles of writer, director, and producer to craft the stories he’s passionate about. He offers invaluable insights into the evolution of an acting career, the importance of learning from every role, and practical advice for aspiring actors on creating their own opportunities and understanding the business side of showbiz.

Adrian Carr, a reputable Director and Editor sheds light on how he develops scripts at all budget levels. From script development to the art of negotiation with writers, Carr sheds light on the collaborative process essential for bringing a screenplay to life. Gain insight into the challenges of funding and producing films, as well as the emotional journey of storytelling. With a focus on flexibility and compromise, Carr emphasizes the importance of earning the audience's emotional investment while navigating modern filmmaking hurdles like budget constraints and competition from online platforms.

We chat to special guest Darren K Hawkins about the intricacies of the pre-production phase. From budgeting challenges to the art of collaboration, Hawkins shares invaluable insights garnered from his experiences as a director and actor. Gain knowledge on navigating the creative process, empowering artists, and fostering empathy on set.

Experienced editor Glenn Triggs dives deep into the art of film editing. From navigating the transition from free work to paid gigs to handling the intricate process of editing feature films, Glenn shares invaluable insights and practical tips. Get a deeper understanding of the nuances of editing across different genres, the collaborative dynamics between directors and editors, and the importance of embracing creativity in both independent and studio filmmaking.

In this podcast episode, filmmaker Luke Mayze shares insights into the intricate process of making a feature film, discussing everything from cinematography techniques to casting challenges. Delving into the logistics of filming in the Philippines, Luke reveals the hurdles of obtaining permissions and navigating local dynamics. From funding the project with the help of family and friends to offering advice for aspiring filmmakers, this episode provides a candid look behind the scenes of independent filmmaking, offering valuable lessons and practical tips for anyone interested in the craft.

Join us on this episode as we dive deep into the world of practical effects in filmmaking with Emmy Winner Chat Atkinson, a seasoned expert who's worked on iconic projects like 'The Hobbit', 'Boy Swallows Universe', 'Hostel', 'Love and Monsters' and so much more. From comparing practical effects to CGI, exploring the intricate techniques behind prosthetics and props, to sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes, we uncover the magic and challenges of bringing fantastical worlds to life on screen. Discover the secrets to creating jaw-dropping effects, the importance of safety and realism, and gain valuable career insights for aspiring filmmakers. Whether you're a film buff or a budding special effects artist, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistry and innovation that fuels the movie magic we love.

AI tools have rapidly evolved, leaving many filmmakers and creatives threatened. Drawing from our own experiences using these tools to create music videos and films, we chat openly about how it can be used for creative exploration and proof of concept creation. On the other hand, we also discuss ethical considerations of AI's role in content creation, highlighting the responsibility of established artists to use AI responsibly and support the creative ecosystem. Join us for a candid conversation on the opportunities and ethical considerations surrounding AI in visual storytelling.

Join us for a conversation with Jayden Creighton, a filmmaker whose short films have amassed over 3 million views on YouTube. Jayden walks us through his filmmaking journey, sharing insights into low-budget filmmaking and the creative process behind his debut feature film, "The Matriarch." From tackling competitions to overcoming funding challenges, Jayden offers valuable advice to aspiring creators. Delve into the stories of how "Kinks" and "Trespassers" went viral on YouTube, gaining widespread recognition. Explore the art of crafting a feature film for less than 50k and the transformative impact of staying true to your unique vision.

We explore how to navigate different directorial styles. We draw from our personal experiences, discussing the impact of extensive preparation on an actor's ability to take direction and how that could possibly hinder flexibility on set. We share some tips that we found useful for effective communication that fosters creativity and enhances performance. You'll learn how to ask the right questions, adapt to feedback, and build a strong collaborative relationship with your director.

Matt Young, a seasoned Casting Director shares how actors can better position themselves to be cast in creative projects. We dive into how casting directors make their decisions, the pressure of tight deadlines, and their considerations when reviewing talent. Gain a fresh perspective on the advantages of being a regional actor and the power of networking and visibility. Uncover the myths of the industry, learn how to create your opportunities, and understand the casting process from both sides.

Matt Young is an accomplished actor, casting director and acting/speaking coach (TEDx SUVA, PACIFIC VOICES IN UNISON), and is the head tutor and founder of TUKUNA ACTING CLUB(Fiji/Outback QLD). He acted as the Fiji Casting Director for #BLACK AF on Netflix.

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