Get Reelisms | An Ode to Filmmaking

Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen celebrate reaching 188 episodes of the Get Reelisms filmmaking podcast and reflect on nearly six to seven years of documenting their careers. They discuss recent Oscars results, including a tie and Sam Davis winning after their interview, and debate why genre films like Sinners may struggle for Best Picture despite winning Best Original Screenplay, while One Battle After Another wins Best Picture and PTA earns Best Director. They talk about attention spans, frustration with people assuming indie films are “on Netflix,” and Christine’s behind-the-scenes photo from Shakespeare on the Range being featured in the Academy Museum, a milestone linked to early career growth. Christine shares her decision to pause First AD work to focus on directing, developing a sketch-based branded micro-series, and adapting to vertical content trends. Adam plugs his “Create Your Own Content” course on getreelisms.com.

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

00:00 Movies All Day

00:22 Podcast Origins

00:54 188 Episodes In

02:03 Oscar Winner Interview

02:54 Oscars Predictions

06:15 Awards Drama Talk

07:07 Short Attention Spans

09:20 Netflix Question Rage

12:36 Academy Museum Photo

14:31 Shakespeare On The Range

18:02 OG Crew Lessons

20:16 BTS Photo Insecurities

20:56 Film History Connections

21:30 How We First Met

22:34 From Stress to Podcast

24:05 Hiatus From First AD

27:30 Friends in Film Sketches

30:29 DIY Filmmaking Revival

32:26 Vertical Video Future

35:43 Budgets and Crew Reality

38:10 Housekeeping and Farewell

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

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Sam Davis on Making Oscar-Nominated Short ‘The Singers’ Without a Script, Casting Viral Buskers, and Shooting on Film

On Get Reelisms podcast episode 187, filmmakers Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen interview Los Angeles–based filmmaker Sam Davis, who is campaigning his live-action short The Singers, nominated for an Academy Award and streaming on Netflix. Davis traces the project back 3–3.5 years to reading a George Saunders breakdown of a Russian short story, then adapting it into a modern bar-set film starring first-time actors found on social media, which took about 18 months to cast due to scam concerns and trust-building. He describes a documentary-influenced, unscripted approach with long improvised takes, constant sound recording, layered audio, and shooting on 35mm film for intentionality, while noting the costs of film and travel. The four-day shoot faced setbacks, including a lead dropping out two days prior. Davis discusses song selection, costume strategy, collaborating with a small crew, balancing documentary and narrative work, and developing future projects, including a long-term feature documentary.

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

Guest: 

Sam Davis is an Oscar newly winning director, cinematographer, and producer known for his work on The Singers (2025), Period. End of Sentence. (2018), and Nai Nai & Wài Pó (2023). A USC School of Cinematic Arts graduate, he specializes in documentary-style narrative filmmaking, often blending digital-age casting with traditional storytelling to explore themes of community and humanity.

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

00:00 Trusting Real People

00:36 Podcast Intro

01:01 Meet Sam Davis

02:04 Origin of The Singers

02:50 Casting and Scam Fears

04:14 Campaigning Burnout

06:08 Doc Style No Script

08:56 Why Shoot on Film

10:47 Four Day Shoot Chaos

12:29 Last Minute Recast

13:56 Oscar Nomination Impact

15:33 Recording Songs Live

17:09 Mundane to Magic

19:25 Choosing and Licensing Songs

21:53 Costumes and Cohesion

24:05 Funding and Budget Realities

25:55 Small Crew Big Effort

26:28 Next Projects Pipeline

28:08 Doc vs Narrative Balance

29:33 Protecting the Moment

30:25 Directing While Shooting

32:01 Editing as Writing

34:32 Risks After Success

36:04 Building the Crew Network

36:54 Chefs Table Tangent

41:55 South by Stories

43:45 Wrap Up and Thanks

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Verticals, Hustle, and the Future of Filmmaking (Get Reelisms Ep. 186)

On Get Reelisms podcast episode 186, filmmakers Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen discuss being exhausted but grateful for steady work while others in Austin and Texas struggle despite talk of bigger film tax incentives. They say vertical short-form productions are “single handedly saving Hollywood,” with money coming from markets including China, and Christine notes speaking Mandarin helps her communicate with clients as an AD and director. They describe overlapping AD prep across productions, constant schedule demands on rare days off, and how vertical work favors indie-style problem solvers over union workflows. They explain vertical monetization as “Farmville”-style gamification with addictive cliffhangers and paywalls per short episode, shaping soapy storytelling tropes, while also noting vertical framing can be visually strong. They mention Darren Aronofsky’s AI film "On This Day, 1776" and briefly debate AI as a tool versus making full films with it, then preview an upcoming guest, Oscar-nominated short filmmaker Sam Davis ("The Singers" on Netflix).

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)  & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

00:00 Verticals Save Hollywood

01:01 Podcast Intro and Hosts

02:08 Lunar New Year Banter

04:11 Work Drought and Incentives

05:19 Mandarin as a Career Edge

06:37 How We Met on Set

12:13 Overlapping AD Chaos

16:04 Forgot to Go Live

18:29 No Days Off Reality

20:44 Becoming the Vertical Queen

22:58 Who Excels at Verticals

24:24 Will Stories Go Vertical

25:04 David Lynch Phone Rant

26:57 Farmville Paywall Model

31:00 Soap Opera Hook Writing

33:16 Shooting Vertical Beautifully

35:53 New Tech Becomes Cinema

37:59 AI Films and Unease

41:38 Trump Impressions Detour

43:09 Housekeeping and Next Guest

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Star Flare: Reclaiming Agency, Building a Fun Set, and the Pain of Crowdfunding (Get Reelisms Ep. 185)

On Get Reelisms Podcast episode 185, hosts Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen interview actor-writer-producer Laura Ricci about making her fantasy romance short film Star Flare. Laura describes feeling powerless as an actor and deciding to create her own work after living in Los Angeles for nearly three years, with wildfires raging and Trump newly inaugurated, leading her to write the script in a week and produce her first “real” film. They discuss designing the project around practical constraints (woods location, small cast, one day, limited costume changes) while still aiming big for the genre, and Laura’s priority of creating a safe, fun set that strengthens relationships and took care of the team. Laura calls crowdfunding the hardest part, recounting constant posting, emotional strain, and mixed results despite support and a stranger’s $1,000 pledge. Christine directed and is editing; they talk about post-production, sound design’s importance, and meeting through a TikTok call for a director.

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)  & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

Guest: 

Laura Ricci is a Los Angeles-based SAG-AFTRA actress known for roles in Hostess (2018), The Wraith (2021), and the upcoming Cupcakes (2025). She has also appeared in I Was There (2022) and Siren Salon (2023), often portraying characters with wit and depth. She is active on Instagram as @the.laura.ricci.

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

00:00 Feeling Powerless

00:51 Podcast Intro

01:12 Meet Laura Ricci

02:00 Audio Setup Talk

03:41 Why Make a Short

05:44 Star Flare Logline

07:43 Writing With Constraints

10:26 Making Set Fun

18:24 Collaboration Magic

22:54 Crowdfunding Struggles

26:25 Crowdfunding Reality Check

27:16 Letting Go of Perfection

28:14 Where the Film Is Now

28:48 Finding a Director on TikTok

31:50 Why Laura Didn’t Direct

34:34 Paying People Fairly

36:20 Editing Notes and Post Workflow

37:41 Sound Design Makes the Genre

38:11 Dune and Movie Theater Nerd Talk

42:23 Weapons Guy and Armor Shop Stories

44:23 Wrap Up and Housekeeping

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Texas Film Industry Thrives: Incentives, Expendables, and Community Stories

In this episode of the Get Reelisms podcast, hosts Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen welcome special guest Chris Bigbie, owner of Dependable Expendables. They discuss Texas's booming film industry, driven by recent tax incentives, and the role of local companies like Dependable Expendables in supporting productions. Chris shares the impact of high-profile projects like Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone and Lioness shooting in Texas, and explains how his company meets the unique needs of film sets with specialized products like silent paper bags. The conversation highlights the significance of the Texas Production Expo and the mutual support within the filmmaking community, showcasing how local initiatives bolster industry growth.

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)  & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

Guest: 

Christopher Bigbie is a Director and Creative Director with a lifelong passion for storytelling through cinema. Bringing a strong narrative sensibility and visual precision to commercials and digital content, he is known for building mood, capturing natural beauty, and shooting dynamic action with elegance and versatility. His work spans advertising and corporate campaigns for major global brands, where his ability to translate abstract ideas into compelling visual stories has become a defining strength.

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

00:00 Introduction to Taylor Sheridan's Impact

00:45 Welcome to Get Reelisms Podcast

01:24 Meet Christopher Bigbie

01:49 Texas Production Expo and Local Incentives

03:53 The Importance of Local Purchases for Incentives

11:19 Silent Bags and Solving On-Set Problems

12:07 Christopher Bigbie's Journey in Film

16:07 Dependable Expendables and Future Goals

16:42 The Birth of a Business Idea

17:41 Mentorship and Creative Education

18:43 Challenges in Early Filmmaking

19:27 Creating Get Reelisms

20:57 The Magic of Filmmaking

23:59 Texas Film Community and Incentives

28:19 Upcoming Texas Production Expo

29:03 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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The Get Reelisms Podcast Episode #183: Set Culture, Stress, and Filmmaking Trials

In this episode of the Get Reelisms Podcast, Episode 183, hosts Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen, delve into the complexities of set culture and the emotional challenges of filmmaking. Adam shares a detailed and vulnerable recount of a stressful shoot, discussing issues such as miscommunication with the director, set design obstacles, and the overarching pressures of the industry. Christine provides insights from her similar experiences, emphasizing the frequent lack of time, money, and proper hierarchy on set. The conversation underscores the importance of managing emotions and maintaining professionalism, even in high-stress situations. This episode also features discussions about the podcast's consistency, regardless of their busy schedules in the film industry, and the industry's current state post-COVID. Towards the end, they promote merchandise deals on GetReelisms.com, especially highlighting holiday discounts and the best combo deals.

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)   & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

TIMELINE

00:00 Introduction to Set Culture

00:45 Meet the Hosts: Adam and Christine

01:19 Podcast Consistency and Industry Challenges

03:45 The Impact of COVID on the Film Industry

06:02 A Tough Year in the Art Department

06:53 A Challenging Commercial Shoot

14:05 Director's Frustration and Miscommunication

18:51 Navigating Set Culture and Emotions

20:23 Dealing with Unclear Direction

23:53 Impact on Professional Relationships

25:28 Coping with Stress and Lack of Support

26:50 Reflecting on Set Challenges

28:57 Finding Solutions and Moving Forward

36:20 Housekeeping and Promotions

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Navigating Indie Filmmaking: From Production Challenges to Festival Strategies

In this episode of the Get Reelisms podcast, hosts Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen, both seasoned filmmakers, discuss the intricate dynamics of indie filmmaking. They explore the challenges directors face when transitioning from producing due to necessity to working with investors who have the final say on creative decisions. They are joined by special guest Lauren Bancroft, an independent genre producer based in LA. The conversation covers Lauren's journey from IT to filmmaking, her experiences with distribution challenges at the American Film Market, and the invaluable role of festival consultants. The trio shares insights into managing creative and business aspects of filmmaking, the realities of film festivals, and the importance of networking within the industry. They close with personal anecdotes, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between work and finding hobbies to unwind.

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)  & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

Guest: 

Lauren Bancroft is a Los Angeles-based producer most known for the documentary The Making of Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles with Billie Eilish (Disney+), and the renowned sketch comedy show CBS Showcase 2022, 2023, and 2024 (Paramount). Also, for short films Mosquito Lady (Beyond Fest 2023, winner of "Best Effects'' at Brooklyn Horror 2023), Bad Rabbit (Hulu), Wild Bitch (SXSW 2022, winner of "Best Thriller" at the Oscar-qualifying Hollyshorts Film Festival 2022), and Navel Gazers (winner of "Best Sci-Fi" at the Micheaux Film Festival 2021). In April of 2024, she wrapped production on her first feature film, Skycrash, an independent sci-fi fantasy. Lauren's brand is dark humor and desperation. In 2022, she founded Bancroffed Inc., with a commitment to supporting women, and underrepresented voices in all aspects of the storytelling space. Lauren is driven by her love of dark comedy, documentaries, Doctor Who, and meticulously folded laundry.

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

00:00 Introduction to Indie Filmmaking Challenges

00:45 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest

01:49 Networking and Industry Realities

03:05 The Harsh Truths of Film Distribution

05:21 The Business Side of Filmmaking

06:55 Personal Journeys in Filmmaking

17:23 From IT to Full-Time Production

27:37 A Heartfelt Farewell

28:09 New Beginnings with Kimmy Gatewood

29:09 From Assistant to Director of Operations

29:54 The Journey of 'Loco'

30:09 Navigating Film Festivals

31:09 The Role of a Festival Consultant

33:43 Distribution Challenges and Strategies

37:15 Upcoming Projects and Personal Growth

44:36 Balancing Work and Personal Life

50:12 Closing Remarks and Housekeeping

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Innovating On-Set Communication: A Conversation with Onset Headsets Founder Matt

In this episode of the Get Reelisms Podcast, hosts Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen dive into a discussion with special guest Matt, founder of Onset Headsets. The conversation covers Matt's journey from working in film production as an Assistant Director (AD) to founding a company that innovates communication gear for filmmakers. Matt shares the story behind Onset Headsets, their product offerings, and the entrepreneurial challenges he faced. The podcast also highlights the critical role of customized, high-quality headsets for the film industry, Matt's unique solutions to common on-set problems, and upcoming plans for the company. Listeners can enjoy insights into film production nuances, hear about the camaraderie on film sets, and learn about Onset Headsets' innovative delivery service in Los Angeles. By the end of the podcast, Matt provides listeners with a special discount code for Onset Headsets products.

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)   & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

For more information go to getreelisms.com 

For more information on ERZULIE go to: erzuliefilm.com

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

TIME SUMMARY:

00:00 Introduction to the Role of an AD

00:55 Welcome to the Get Reelisms Podcast

01:31 Meet Matt from Onset Headsets

02:58 The Birth of Onset Headsets

05:16 Innovative Headset Solutions

07:30 Challenges and Innovations in Filmmaking

08:06 Onset Headsets Delivery Service

10:45 Customization and User Feedback

14:55 Partnerships and New Products

20:52 Transition from AD to Entrepreneur

24:03 Expanding Onset Headsets

25:56 Tech Influence in Austin

27:18 Upcoming Events for Onset Headsets

29:08 Expanding Nationwide

29:48 Innovations in Headset Technology

30:44 Customer Experiences and Feedback

38:20 Bulk Orders and Customization

41:30 Durability and Warranty

47:03 Exclusive Discount Code

48:13 Conclusion and Housekeeping

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Welcome to episode 180 of the Get Reelisms Podcast! Hosted by filmmakers Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen, this episode dives deep into the realities of working in the film industry. Adam and Christine discuss the inevitable struggles of unpaid work, the importance of resilience, and the value of loving what you do. They also reminisce about their five-year journey of hosting the podcast, recounting the significant changes and growth over the years. From on-set stories to life lessons, this episode is packed with insights for aspiring filmmakers. Stay tuned as they prepare for an exciting interview with Onset Headsets!

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)   & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

For more information go to getreelisms.com 

For more information on ERZULIE go to: erzuliefilm.com

WEBISODE version of the Podcast

TIME SUMMARY:

00:00 The Harsh Realities of the Film Industry

00:48 Welcome to the Get Reelisms Podcast

01:55 Reflecting on Five Years of Podcasting

03:11 The Impact of COVID on the Podcast

04:25 Teaching and the Reality Check for Students

10:37 The Journey from Student to Co-Host

12:01 The Evolution of the Podcast

14:37 High School Memories and Acting

18:01 The Art of Acting and Directing

19:53 The Magic of Improvisation in Film

20:20 Iconic Improvised Scenes in The Wolf of Wall Street

22:05 Aging and Nostalgia

23:12 Interviewing World War II Veterans

25:49 Recent Projects and Film Work

28:30 The Challenges and Rewards of Film Production

30:20 Reflections on Career Growth and Work Ethic

37:32 Living and Working in Los Angeles vs. Austin

38:07 Wrapping Up and Upcoming Podcast

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Join hosts Christine Chen and Adam Chase Rani on Episode 179 of the Get Reelisms Podcast as they dive into a fascinating conversation with special guest Rob Spera, a seasoned film and television director, and educator at the American Film Institute. Spera shares invaluable insights about the filmmaking industry, discussing his work with Ride Back Rise, a fellowship program supporting mid-career people of color. He emphasizes the importance of doing the work, focusing on long-term career plans, and maintaining passion through teaching and community-building. The episode also touches on practical directing advice, including how to effectively collaborate with actors and the significance of living a balanced life to fuel creativity. This episode is packed with wisdom for both aspiring and seasoned filmmakers.

Hosts: Adam Rani (@adamthechase)   & Christine Chen (@cchenmtf) 

About Christine W Chen:

Christine W. Chen is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, Moth to Flame, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including Erzulie, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned DGA 1st Assistant Director and co-author of Get Reelisms and ABCs of Filmmaking, as well as the co-host of the Get Reelisms Podcast.

For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com

About Adam Rani:

Adam Chase Rani is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the Get Reelisms Podcast with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.

WEBISODE VERISON OF THE PODCAST

TIMELINE:

00:00 Introduction to Film Scene Lengths

00:40 Welcome to the Get Reelisms Podcast

01:16 Meet Rob Spera: Director and Educator

01:41 The Ride Back Rise Fellowship

04:35 The Long Game: Developing a Five-Year Plan

06:43 Rob Spera's Journey in the Film Industry

10:11 Advice for Aspiring Producers

11:39 The Importance of Creating Your Own Opportunities

15:55 Teaching and Keeping the Passion Alive

23:44 Directing Techniques and Respecting Actors

32:07 The Importance of Scene Simplicity

32:48 Navigating Actor Challenges

33:31 The Role of Blocking and Camera Angles

35:53 Building a Collaborative Environment

40:21 The Value of Gratitude on Set

47:12 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

52:31 Balancing Creativity and Work

56:33 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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