In this episode of Film Directing with Matt Macedo, we dive into the fascinating intersection of psychology and vertical microdramas — the fast-paced, emotionally charged storytelling format that has taken platforms like ReelShort, DramaBox, and ShortMax by storm.

As a director who has helmed multiple top-performing vertical dramas, Matt breaks down how these bite-sized stories are intentionally crafted to hook audiences within seconds. He’s joined by special guest Jacqueline van Eijk — a passionate fan of microdramas with a background in psychology — who unpacks why our brains become emotionally invested so quickly and what psychological triggers keep us bingeing episode after episode.

If you love directing, storytelling psychology, or just want to know what makes viral microdramas so addictive, this episode will open your eyes to the mechanics behind emotional engagement in short-form filmmaking.

🎧 Listen now and discover the psychology driving one of the fastest-growing storytelling formats in film.

📲 Subscribe for more episodes on directing, storytelling structure, vertical filmmaking, and the craft behind emotional impact.

#FilmDirecting #VerticalDrama #Microdrama #StorytellingPsychology #MattMacedo #JacquelineVanEijk

In this episode of Film Directing with Matt Macedo, I sit down with legendary stunt coordinator Gregg Sargeant — a veteran of Hollywood action, known for his work on War of the Worlds with Steven Spielberg, Pirates of the Caribbean, Westworld, and countless others.

Gregg shares stories from his decades in the industry, including what it’s like designing stunts on massive sets, coordinating with top directors, and keeping safety and storytelling at the heart of every explosion, chase, and fight. We also discuss his work at Stunt University, where he trains the next generation of stunt performers, and the lessons he’s learned about trust, collaboration, and leadership on set.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, film student, or simply a fan of the craft behind the chaos, this episode offers a rare look at the relationship between directors and stunt coordinators — and the balance of creativity, precision, and courage that makes great action come alive.

🎧 Listen now to hear how Gregg Sargeant brings danger to life — safely.

In this episode of Film Directing with Matt Macedo, I sit down with friend of the podcast Dédalo Purificação to discuss how mindset shapes a director’s journey. We dive into the differences between a fixed and open mindset, the role of ego in filmmaking, and how to cultivate a positive mentality when facing challenges, fear, and setbacks on set and beyond. Whether you're an aspiring director or a seasoned pro, this conversation will help you reframe obstacles as opportunities and keep your creative vision sharp.

🔹 Follow me on Instagram: @MattMacedo
🔹 Visit my website: www.MattMacedo.com
🔹 Contact Dédalo: [email protected]

Listen now and level up your mindset as a director! 🎧🎥 #FilmDirecting #MindsetMatters #Filmmaking

Vertical dramas are on the rise. If you've seen platforms like Reelshort, ShortMax, Dramabox, and PocketFM dominating the entertainment charts on the Apple and Android App Stores, or caught a glimpse of their spicy, drama-packed clips on Instagram or TikTok, you're witnessing a shift in storytelling.

For the past year, I’ve been immersed in directing vertical dramas, and after completing my 7th (and prepping for my 8th) feature-length mini-series, directing has officially become my full-time gig. In this episode, I sit down with Charlotte Huang as she prepares to direct her first vertical series. We dive into my journey—the successes, the stumbles, and the valuable lessons I've gathered along the way. Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or a curious newcomer, I hope you can learn from my experience.

Follow me on Instagram @MattMacedo and visit my website for more about these vertical series and my latest books!

Hello friends! Thanks for tuning in to another episode of the podcast.

This episode is sponsored by the Film Analysis Journal, my new book that I released on Amazon for film students and aspiring filmmakers. It's an educational journal aimed at helping you break down your favorite movies as you watch them, learning more about character arcs, story beats, visual language, and more. Available in both paperback and hardback:

Hardcover: https://a.co/d/aCgDzP5

Paperback: https://a.co/d/55pEsfn

My special guest is Brian Cutler. With a career spanning over 7 decades, we dive into his life, career, and everything there is to know about the collaborative relationship between actors and directors. If you live in the Los Angeles area, please visit Brian Cutlers Actors Studio located in Burbank, and follow Brian's instagram @BrianCutlersActorsStudio (https://www.instagram.com/briancutleractorsstudio?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) or visit his website at www.ActorsStudio.com

Hello Friends! Today's special guest is writer/director Cody Ashford. Cody is a central valley filmmaker who recently completed his first feature film. We dive into the writer/director's experience from pre-production to post-production, covering various topics such as how to handle rejection, failure, as well as the balance of collaboration.

Follow Cody on Instagram: @codash27 and TikTok.

www.FilmDirectingMerch.com

www.MattMacedo.com

New Kids Book: "Lights Camera Cut" https://www.amazon.com/Lights-Camera-Cut-Filmmaking-Coordination/dp/B0CM15D2Z8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30OVA9CPFP2XX&keywords=lights+camera+cut&qid=1699921076&sprefix=lights+camera+cu%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-1

Fiverr Services:

Screenplay Feedback: https://www.fiverr.com/themattmacedo/review-your-script-and-give-feedback

Film Feedback: https://www.fiverr.com/themattmacedo/advise-and-consult-with-you-on-film-directing

Thank you for your support!

Hello Friends! Today's special guest is Adrian Sierkowski, a cinematographer and gaffer. In this episode, we discuss the relationship between the director and cinematographer, how lighting can portray a character's psychology, the role of lighting in storytelling, and the future of film production involving AI and virtual stages.

To get in contact with Adrian, visit his website at www.AdrianSierkowski.com.

To learn more about the feedback services I provide on Fiverr, click the links below!

Screenplay Feedback with optional directing notes: https://www.fiverr.com/s/2aBK3k

Film and Film Directing Feedback: https://www.fiverr.com/s/WzxE4X

Follow me on Instagram and Threads @MattMacedo

www.MattMacedo.com

Did you know your handwriting reveals virtually everything about you? Today's special guest is Author and Expert Handwriting Analyst Sheila Lowe. We dive deep into how our characteristics (and even past injuries) show themselves through our handwriting. 

To learn more about Sheila, her books, and the services that she offers, please visit SheilaLowe.com & SheilaLoweBooks.com 

Hello Friends! On today's episode, I welcome Jordan Brady to the podcast. He is an ultra-successful commercial director who has directed well over 1,000 commercials and has multiple online courses. If you follow his Instagram, you're definitely aware of how funny he is and the free knowledge he gives away.

In this episode, we talk about the similarities and differences between directing films and directing commercials. 

Please check out Jordan's work at TrueGent.tv and follow him on Instagram @ThatJordanBrady. His website is CommercialDirectingFilmSchool.com and you are able to sign up for a consultation call or even sign up for his Commercial Directing Bootcamp. Please check out his podcast "Respect the Process" and purchase his book Commercial Directing Voodoo.