Documentary First

In this captivating episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with filmmakers Sarah Burns and David McMahon to discuss their forthcoming documentary on the legendary Leonardo da Vinci. Together, they explore the creative process behind bringing Leonardo’s life and genius to the screen, the challenges of capturing his story, and the innovative techniques they used to breathe life into his work.

From the importance of curiosity and expert insights to the immersive experience of researching in Italy, Sarah and David share a fascinating look at what it takes to honor Leonardo’s legacy. They also dive into the role of voice, music, and visuals in creating an engaging documentary and share exclusive details about accessing and interpreting da Vinci’s masterpieces.

Takeaways

• Curiosity as a Driving Force: Leonardo’s endless curiosity inspired both the filmmakers and their storytelling approach.

• Unique Challenges: Limited visual material called for creative methods to portray Leonardo’s genius.

• Innovative Techniques: The filmmakers used unique storytelling techniques to convey Leonardo's many talents.

• Expert Perspectives: A diverse cast of experts enriches the film’s exploration of Leonardo’s impact.

• Immersive Research: Living in Italy allowed the filmmakers to deeply connect with Leonardo’s world.

• Voice & Music: Carefully chosen voiceovers and a powerful score bring emotional depth to Leonardo’s story.

• Access to Originals: Viewing Leonardo’s original works was pivotal to the film’s authenticity.

• Inspiration for Viewers: The documentary celebrates Leonardo’s legacy, inspiring audiences to appreciate his contributions to art and science.

 

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SARAH: When we Were Kings, 1996, 88mins, Watch on MAX, IMDB Link: When We Were Kings (1996) ⭐ 7.9 | Documentary, Sport

DAVID: How to Survive a Plague, 2012, 110 mins, Watch on AMC+ Channels (Prime), IMDB Link: How to Survive a Plague (2012) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, History, News

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction to the Filmmakers 07:39 Exploring Leonardo da Vinci's Mind 17:01 Challenges and Innovations in Filmmaking 26:55 The Role of Experts and Perspectives 37:24 Living in Italy: Immersion in Leonardo's World 46:06 The Power of Voice and Music in Storytelling 52:52 Accessing Leonardo's Works and Legacy 56:14 DocuView Déjà Vu

In this insightful episode, host Christian Taylor sits down with French filmmaker Matt Beurois, director of Fancy Like Walker Hayes, to explore the heartwarming story of country music sensation Walker Hayes and his family. Beurois shares his journey into documentary filmmaking and provides a behind-the-scenes look at capturing the Hayes family’s rise to fame.

From the importance of storytelling and the challenges of balancing creativity with business, to the dynamics of trust, family, and fame, this conversation dives deep into the art and heart of filmmaking. Matt discusses the importance of timing in the music and film industry, lessons learned in navigating contracts and distribution, and the unique support system that has guided Walker and his family. Join us for an inspiring look at the power of family, resilience, and passion in pursuing creative dreams.

Links: Trailer for Walker Hayes documentary: https://vimeo.com/996694150/364f20c291?share=copy

Matt’s DocuView Déjà Vu:

Still: A Michael J Fox Movie, 2023, 95 mins, Watch on Apple TV+, IMDB Link: Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie (2023) – IMDb

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking 02:53 Matt Beurois: A French Filmmaker’s Journey 06:03 The Importance of Education and Self-Learning in Filmmaking 09:02 Navigating the Film Industry: Business and Creativity 12:09 The Unique Story of ‘Fancy Like’ and Walker Hayes 17:59 Behind the Scenes: Creating the Documentary 24:01 The Hayes Family: Love, Struggle, and Success 29:30 Crafting the Narrative: The Editing Process 34:05 Family Dynamics on Tour: Balancing Fame and Family 37:27 The Business of Music: Understanding the Industry 46:41 Challenges in Filmmaking: Contracts and Legalities 52:37 DocuView Déjà Vu Recommendations 54:18 What’s coming next for Matt

In this episode, host Christian Taylor sits down with Emmy-nominated editor and producer Evan Wise, ACE, to delve into his career journey and unique approach to documentary filmmaking. Evan shares his path from a rebellious skate punk in New Jersey to becoming a highly respected editor, working on acclaimed series like HBO’s The Circus and Q: Into the Storm. The conversation turns to his latest project, Chimp Crazy, a four-part HBO series that explores the complex world of primates.

Evan offers a behind-the-scenes look at Chimp Crazy, discussing the creative and technical challenges of editing a real-time documentary. He emphasizes the importance of finding a compelling story arc, balancing multiple perspectives, and allowing the audience to interpret the narrative independently. He also shares his unique workflow, which involves producing, writing, and editing simultaneously—an approach that fosters flexibility and creativity.

Throughout the episode, Evan provides valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring editors. He highlights essential skills like negotiation, teamwork, and self-advocacy, offering listeners an inside view of the collaborative and often intense world of documentary editing.

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• Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills, 1996, 150 mins, Watch on Amazon / Prime, IMDB Link: Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills (1996) ⭐ 8.2 | Documentary, Crime

• Diamond Hands: Legends of WallStreetBets, 2022, 89 mins, Watch on Peacock, IMDB Link: Diamond Hands: The Legend of WallStreetBets (2022) ⭐ 4.7 | Documentary

Takeaways

• Hard work and enthusiasm are key for advancing in documentary filmmaking.

• Building relationships with experienced editors and filmmakers is invaluable for growth.

• Film school offers resources but isn’t necessary for success in the industry.

• Starting in entry-level roles, like logger or assistant editor, can lead to an editing career.

• High-profile projects and recognition, like Emmy nominations, can open new doors.

• Creating a series involves tailoring the format, episode length, and story to the footage available.

• Presenting multiple perspectives lets the audience form their own opinions.

• Filming, writing, and editing at the same time allows for creative, flexible storytelling.

• Creative problem-solving makes scenes more engaging and visually dynamic.

• Negotiation skills and self-advocacy are crucial for an editor's success.

• Building positive relationships and being kind to others is essential in the editing world.

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping 03:21 Evan Wise's Journey in Documentary Filmmaking 07:52 The Importance of Hard Work and Building Relationships 14:30 The Role of Loggers and Assistant Editors 18:14 Turning Points in Evan Wise's Career 21:40 Creating 'Chimp Crazy' 25:16 Discovering the Story 28:26 Filming, Writing, and Editing Simultaneously 31:35 Revealing Unseen Processes 37:32 Editors as Writers 40:05 The Importance of Being Nice 45:50 DocuView Dèjà Vu

Here is a taste of our new series called Conversation With Christian that is available on Patreon.

In this episode, Christian interviews her eldest son, the one with whom her entire film adventure began. In 2011 he joined the military and that life decision had big implications for the whole family. They discuss his military journey and their shared experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

They discuss themes of trust, perseverance, and the importance of community. Christian’s son shares his passion for the military and his desire to serve as a warfighter. They also touch on the challenges and rewards of running a business together.

Overall, the conversation highlights the lessons learned and the growth that comes from facing difficult circumstances. Support us on Patreon and get Documentary First exclusive content like this episode for $5+ a month. Patreon.com/DocumentaryFirst

Takeaways

• Trust in God's provision and have faith in His plan, even in difficult times.

• Challenges and setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.

• Building a strong community and culture is essential for personal and professional development.

• Having a mentor or someone with experience can provide valuable guidance and support.

• Passion and dedication are key to pursuing a fulfilling career or vocation.

In this insightful episode of the Documentary First Podcast, Christian Taylor, David Paterson, and Todd Anderson delve into the data and hard-earned lessons from the theatrical release of The Girl Who Wore Freedom.

They explore the surprising factors that influenced ticket sales, including screening schedules, ticket pricing, and the often overlooked role of theater advertising—or lack thereof. The team shares their experiences with the logistical hurdles of distributing physical drives and the critical importance of targeted outreach to specific audiences.

Reflecting on their journey, the hosts candidly discuss the missteps and lessons learned, underscoring the necessity of strategic planning, research, and building strong partnerships in independent film distribution. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex world of documentary filmmaking and theatrical releases.

No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode

Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Script Confusion 04:21 Theatrical Release Details 07:46 The Impact of Matinee Showings 09:01 Personal Interruption: Wedding Announcement 12:50 Return to Discussion: Advertising and Theater Cooperation 15:52 Personal Interruption: Wedding Update 17:15 Return to Discussion: Naivete and Theater Advertising 2115 The Importance of Deliverables and Advertising 22:13 The Impact of Deliverables on Profit 23:24 The Challenges of Physical Distribution 26:22 The Role of DCP Suppliers in Distribution 27:36 The Importance of Organization and Tracking 28:32 Theaters' Lack of Advertising and Responsibility 29:13 The Importance of Targeted Outreach 30:07 The Impact of Ticket Prices on Profit 31:22 The Success of Film Festival Screenings 32:39 The Importance of Local Outreach and Partnerships 35:36 The Importance of Research and Targeting 38:09 The Success of In-Person Screenings 42:00 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

In this episode of Documentary First, Christian Taylor is joined by Joe Amodei and Tim Maggiani from Virgil Films Entertainment to dive into the evolving world of film distribution and the diminishing role of film festivals in securing deals.

The discussion sheds light on how the dominance of streaming platforms and studios has shifted the landscape, making it increasingly difficult for independent filmmakers to gain visibility through traditional film festivals.

The conversation explores the significance of IMDb in shaping a film’s release strategy and public perception. Christian and Tim emphasize the importance of meticulously managing your IMDb page, from the release date to cast listings, to enhance your film’s appeal. They also highlight the critical role of eye-catching key art in capturing attention.

The hosts delve into how streaming platforms utilize algorithms to curate content tailored to user preferences, changing the way audiences discover films. They also discuss the growing prominence of ad-supported video on demand (AVOD) services like Tubi and Pluto TV, which provide filmmakers with new avenues to reach diverse audiences.

Joe Amodei reflects on his personal connection with Morgan Spurlock, sharing how the success of Spurlock’s documentary Super Size Me profoundly impacted Virgil Films and the documentary industry. He pays tribute to their enduring friendship, underscoring the value of supporting one another in both personal and professional endeavors.

 

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IMDB LINK: Morgan Spurlock | Producer, Writer, Director

Super Size Me, 2004, 100mins, Watch on Peacock, Pluto, Prime, Roku, Tubi and Plex, IMDB LINK: Super Size Me (2004) ⭐ 7.2 | Documentary

 

Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:02 The Changing Role of Film Festivals 09:04 The Impact of IMDb on Release Dates and Perception 14:09 The Influence of Streamers and Studios 20:07 The Dominance of Streamers at Film Festivals 22:46 The Importance of IMDb and Its Limitations 24:03 Adapting to the Changing Distribution Landscape 25:35 Optimizing Your IMDb Page and Key Art 26:32 The Role of Algorithms in Content Curation 28:56 The Rise of Ad-Supported Video on Demand 40:22 DocuView Dèjà Vu - Remembering Morgan Spurlock and 'Super Size Me'

You know our good friend, Joe Amodei (Supersize Me) from past episodes. Now meet his protégé, Tim Maggiani, who is a great explainer of the modern film distribution process. Joe, a seasoned pro in VHS and DVD sales, admits the need for his distribution company to stay nimble and adaptable to new technology and platforms.

Enter Tim. He understands the streaming world yet adheres to the age-old method of cultivating relationships between filmmakers and distributors—a key ingredient to success. By listening to this podcast, one will gain understanding about: what it is like to attend a Hollywood pitch meeting, how a movie is delivered, and why it is important to find a champion for your film. Stay tuned to Documentary First to hear Part 2 later this month!

Links:

https://www.forksoverknives.com/

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Tim Maggiani: "Just. One. Mile.", 2023, 1hr 36min, Watch on Tubi and Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28619147/

Joe Amodei: “7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story”, 2021, 93 mins, Watch on Tubi and Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12439210/

Timecodes 00:50 Introduction and Disclaimer 06:50 Joe Amodei's Journey in the Film Industry 14:44 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Film Distribution 19:38 Pitching Films to Distributors and Platforms: The Art of the Pitch 22:36 Building and Maintaining Relationships in the Film Industry 25:05 Creating Compelling Marketing Materials for Film Distribution 30:56 Importance of Ongoing Promotion for Independent Films 33:17 Building Strong Relationships with Filmmakers 38:06 DocuView Dèjà Vu

Special guests, Whitney and Brandon Cawood, take us behind the scenes of their groundbreaking documentary, To Dye For. This eye-opening film dives deep into the hidden dangers of synthetic dyes and their adverse effects on individuals and families.

By incorporating a unique blend of vlog-style storytelling, expert interviews, and emotional family testimonies, To Dye For shines a light on a critical issue often overlooked.

In this episode, Brandon and Whitney open up about their personal journey, sharing the urgency that drove them to bring this story to life. They discuss the challenges of wearing multiple hats—handling animation, music composition, and casting—while navigating the financial, marketing, and strategy side of independent filmmaking.

Through the process of making this film they learned how to have focus groups and how to rely on God during tough times. We encourage our listeners to see the movie when it releases!

Links:

http://www.todyeforthedocumentary.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@YesTheory

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Whitney: “Not So Pretty”, 2022, 4 Episode Documentaty Series, Watch on MAX, IMDB LINK: Not So Pretty (TV Mini Series 2022) ⭐ 6.9 | Documentary

Christian: 1. “Brandy Hellville & the Cult fo Fast Fashion”, 2024, 91mins, Watch on MAX, IMDB LINK: Brandy Hellville & the Cult of Fast Fashion (2024) ⭐ 6.2 | Documentary

2. “The Movies That Made Us”, 2019-2921, 3 Season Series, Watch on Netflix, IMDB LINK: The Movies That Made Us (TV Series 2019–2021) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, Family, History

Brandon: 1. “Backstreet Boys: Show ‘Em What You’re Made Of”, 2015, 101 mins, Watch on various streaming platforms such a Prime, Tubi, Roku, Peacock, IMDB LINK: Backstreet Boys: Show 'Em What You're Made Of (2015) ⭐ 7.5 | Documentary

2. “OUTATIME: Saving the DeLoren Time Machine”, 2016, 64 mins, Watch on Amazon, IMDB LINK: OUTATIME: Saving the DeLorean Time Machine (2016) ⭐ 7.4 | Documentary

 

Timecodes 00:51 Introduction and Background 03:57 Summary of the Documentary 10:35 Filmmakers' Background and Roles 19:04 Impressions of the Film 21:45 Storytelling Mechanisms and Working Within a Budget 32:10 Divine Intervention and the Making of a Documentary Film 37:30 Taking on Multiple Roles: Social Media Marketing 39:10 Understanding the Target Audience and Administrative Tasks 47:00 Finding Community and In-Person Test Screenings 52:38 Being Creative and Unique in Documentary Filmmaking 55:20 DocuView Dèjà Vu

 

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Cecilia Peck (executive producer) and Inbal B. Lessner (editor) are the creators of Netflix's 2023 doc series, Escaping Twin Flames. Together, they explore their personal journey as filmmakers, how they united as a powerful team, and how they brought this social issue to light.

The conversation dives into the unsettling world of the Twin Flames Universe, an online relationship community whose promises of true love masks a controlling environment. Through deep research and with empathy, they unearthed these survivors’ stories.

The filmmakers discuss the vital role of editors in shaping a narrative, their support for editors deserving writing credits, and the collaborative effort required to piece together different story arcs. They share unexpected moments that shifted the direction of the series and reflect on how documentaries can influence real-world change, including how shows can affect law enforcement through social pressure.

Inbal and Cecilia also talk about the qualities they admire in each other, their commitment to ethical filmmaking, and offer valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. They emphasize the importance of mastering skills like sound recording and editing, and the value of learning firsthand from filmmakers you respect.

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Inbal:

Fire of Love, 2022, 98 mins, Watch on Hulu & Prime, IMDB LINK: Fire of Love (2022) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, Biography

Cecilia:

Harlan County U.S.A., 1976, 103 mins, Watch on MAX or Amazon, IMDB LINK: Harlan County U.S.A. (1976) ⭐ 8.2 | Documentary

Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Filmmaker Background 08:53 Nominated for an Emmy and Working Together 15:22 From Brave Miss World to Seduced 20:10 Investigating Twin Flames Universe 22:10 Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Documentary Filmmaking 24:30 Pitching to Netflix: From Proof of Concept to Green Light 27:07 The Trade-Off: Ownership vs. Financial Support 29:20 The Role of Editors in Documentary Filmmaking 32:30 Collaborative Editing and Multiple Editors 40:40 Surprising Moments and Impact on Law Enforcement 50:54 The Importance of Ethical Filmmaking 53:10 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

DISCLAIMER -- *Documentary First Productions and it’s staff acknowledge the complexity of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Comments made in this video are meant to explore the complexity of violence rather than to promote or stand for a particular cause. --

In this week's episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor is joined by summer intern Peyton Rabb to recount their unforgettable journey to Normandy for the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day landings. The Documentary First Productions team had the profound honor of accompanying 101-year-old WWII veteran Ceo Bauer to the commemorative ceremonies—his first experience in Normandy attending the D-Day commemorations.

This deeply moving experience touched not only Ceo and the team but also the people of Normandy and the active-duty military members who took part in the events. Christian and Peyton reflect on the emotional impact of their documentary, "The Girl Who Wore Freedom", which centers around Ceo Bauer’s story and resonates deeply with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. The episode delves into the French perspective on war and freedom, the significance of the D-Day commemorations, and the team's interactions with notable figures like Air Force captain (CPT), Christian Maude.

Listeners will be transported to key moments of the trip, from visiting the historic church at Angoville-au-Plain, with its blood-stained pews, to witnessing a reenactment at Utah Beach. Peyton also shares her personal growth from this experience, including the profound effect of receiving Ceo's book. The episode wraps up with thoughtful reflections on the importance of taking risks, the power of storytelling, and the value of intergenerational friendships forged through shared history. Don't miss this powerful conversation that honors the past while inspiring future connections.

No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode.

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction and Background 03:03 The 80th Anniversary of Normandy 07:28 The Impact of The Girl Who Wore Freedom 11:10 The French Perspective on War and Freedom 15:25 Exploring the Schedule and Events of the Trip 27:25 Inspiring Support from Captain Christian Maude 29:19 A Special Visit to Angoville Church 36:23 Solemn and Impactful Reenactment at Utah Beach 40:23 The Priceless Moment of Receiving Ceo's Book 47:29 The Incredible Involvement of the U.S. Army 52:07 Personal Growth and Transformation 54:03 The Value of Intergenerational Friendships & Conclusion