In this episode, we sit down with Tony Lazarowich, a Mechanical / Practical Special Effects Supervisor, to talk about the real-world craft behind on-set magic: rain, snow, smoke, fire, blood, hydraulics, pneumatics, explosions, and the safety-first mindset that holds it all together.

Tony shares how he went from pulling cable as a teenager to “finding” his way onto sets in Vancouver, learning the trade hands-on, and eventually building a career spanning decades of film and television. We also dig into how practical effects collaborate with stunts and VFX, how technology has evolved, and how AI is changing the landscape.

Tony also discusses working alongside his wife, filmmaker Gina Hole Lazarowich, whose latest film Robert was recently accepted to the prestigious Beverly Hills Film Festival.

Watch the trailer for Robert here:

https://vimeo.com/1165519482?fl=pl&fe=sh

In this episode

• What practical and mechanical special effects actually include (and why it’s more than “blowing stuff up”)

• How Tony broke into the industry (including a legendary shop story)

• Safety culture on set and why it’s non-negotiable

• Breaking down the planning process: script, questions, testing, execution

• Practical vs VFX: where the handoff happens and how departments coordinate

• Favorite career stories (Friday the 13th chaos, Elf snow problem-solving)

• Advice for newcomers: skills that actually get you hired

Check out the video interview here!

https://youtu.be/ymLX95Oo-jk

IMDb:

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0493794/

Pacific West Special Effects:

https://www.pacwestspfx.com/

Pacific West Special Effects – About:

https://www.pacwestspfx.com/about

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/pacwestspfx/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/pacificwestSPFX/

#CrewTales, #LifeInTheCircus, #PracticalEffects, #SpecialEffects, #FilmCrew, #IATSE891, #BehindTheScenes

In this episode of Crew Tales, Life in the Circus, Brad sits down with filmmaker, producer, and entrepreneur Gina Hole Lazarowich, whose career has taken an unconventional path through fashion, film, and business.

Gina’s journey spans four decades in fashion and more than thirty years in the film industry. She began as a self-taught makeup artist in the late 1970s, worked her way through fashion, celebrity, and Hollywood, and eventually built one of Western Canada’s leading artist agencies from the basement of her home. Years later, a story she couldn’t ignore pulled her back into filmmaking.

That story became the award-winning documentary Krow’s TRANSformation, a three-year project following a young trans male model. The film premiered internationally, opened the Raindance Film Festival in London, screened around the world, and won Best Documentary in Mallorca. Gina shot much of it herself using whatever tools were available, including iPhones, iPads, and donated gear, proving that powerful storytelling doesn’t depend on expensive equipment.

Since this interview was recorded, Gina’s latest film Robert has been officially selected for the prestigious Beverly Hills Film Festival.

In the conversation, we talk about impostor syndrome, learning on the job, the realities of producing today, how film funding actually works, the shift from film to digital, and why Gina believes fear has no place in creativity. From running a special effects company to mentoring young filmmakers and advocating for the industry, Gina embodies what it means to wear many hats and keep moving forward.

Check out the video interview here!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3-o7xIaNQw

Links

Gina Hole Lazarowich

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/ginaholelaz

Pacific West Special Effects

https://pacificwestsfx.com

Film – Krow’s TRANSformation

https://filmfreeway.com/KrowsTRANSformation

Film – Robert Trailer

https://vimeo.com/1165519482?fl=pl&fe=sh

#CrewTales, #LifeInTheCircus, #FilmIndustry, #BehindTheScenes, #Producer, #FilmProducer, #Director, #DocumentaryFilm, #IndieFilm, #VancouverFilm, #BCFilm, #CanadianFilm, #WomenInFilm, #SpecialEffects, #PracticalEffects, #Storytelling, #Filmmaking, #FilmPodcast, #PodcastInterview, #OutTV

Discover the fascinating world of still photography in the film industry through the eyes of a passionate professional.

Hear from Kailey Schwerman as she shares her journey as a unit photographer in Vancouver. Explore her insights on what it means to capture the essence of a production through still images, the importance of creativity in film, and how she balances her work and personal life. Learn about the vital roles photographers play in marketing shows, the drive needed to succeed, and how personality is key on set. Get a glimpse into the heartwarming and challenging experiences that come with preserving moments in time.

Life in the Circus Podcast

Website: https://circuspodcast.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTheCircusPodcast

Podcast Hosting: https://hubhopper.com/podcast/life-in-the-circus/449372

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinthecircuspodcast

Relevant Hashtags

#Photography #FilmIndustry #CreativeJourney #WomenInFilm #Production

Discover how cinematography can capture the heart of storytelling!

Explore the journey of Phillip Lanyon, a talented cinematographer who shares his insights on marrying visual storytelling with emotional depth. This engaging discussion reveals the nuances between dramatic and documentary filmmaking, the importance of spontaneity, and how different shooting styles affect audience perception. Gain valuable knowledge about the creative process behind crafting resonant images and learn how each filming style informs the other.

Life in the Circus Podcast

Website: https://circuspodcast.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTheCircusPodcast

Podcast Hosting: https://hubhopper.com/podcast/life-in-the-circus/449372

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinthecircuspodcast

Relevant Hashtags

#Cinematography #Filmmaking #Documentary #Storytelling #BehindTheScenes

Discover how the transition from film to digital is reshaping the motion picture industry.

Hear insights from Mike Sankey, a seasoned Digital Imaging Technician, as he shares his journey and offers advice for newcomers in the film world. Learn about the creative connections with directors and cinematographers, the perks and challenges of working on set, and the importance of an exit strategy in such a dynamic field. This discussion delves into how technology affects storytelling, changes in color timing, and unique perspectives from behind the scenes in shows like Battlestar Galactica.

Life in the Circus Podcast

Website: https://circuspodcast.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTheCircusPodcast

Podcast Hosting: https://hubhopper.com/podcast/life-in-the-circus/449372

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinthecircuspodcast

Relevant Hashtags

#FilmIndustry #DigitalCinematography #BehindTheScenes #CreativeProcess #MotionPictures

Discover how a props master transforms scripts into unforgettable visuals!

Explore the unique journey of Vava Renata, a seasoned props master with over a decade of experience. Gain insight into the essential role of props in film production, including how to source, design, and implement props that enhance storytelling. Learn about the challenges faced when collaborating with directors and production designers, and the nuances of working in different genres, from modern-day settings to intricate period pieces. Vava shares helpful tips on managing creative teams and anticipating needs on set, ensuring every detail aligns perfectly for each scene.

Life in the Circus Podcast

Website: https://circuspodcast.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTheCircusPodcast

Podcast Hosting: https://hubhopper.com/podcast/life-in-the-circus/449372

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinthecircuspodcast

Relevant Hashtags

#PropsMaster #Filmmaking #BehindTheScenes #FilmProduction #CreativeProcess

Discover the magic behind being a cinematographer in the world of film!

This video features an engaging conversation with Mikah Sharkey, who shares her unique journey from a budding filmmaker to an accomplished cinematographer. It delves into how personal experiences shaped her approach to storytelling, the process of capturing visuals that resonate emotionally, and the significance of collaboration with directors and various departments in film production. Sharkey also reflects on her notable projects and the lessons learned from shooting circus performances, highlighting her passion for the art of cinematography.

Discover the fascinating world of storytelling through the eyes of Peter Deluise, a multi-talented actor, director, and producer.

Join us as we explore Peter's journey from a young child mesmerized by television to a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Learn about his creative process directing hit shows like Stargate and Haunting Hour, and hear the personal stories that shaped his understanding of storytelling. Gain insights into his early influences and how they continue to inspire his work today. This conversation reveals the heart of what it means to be a storyteller in the modern world.

Life in the Circus Podcast

Website: https://circuspodcast.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTheCircusPodcast

Podcast Hosting: https://hubhopper.com/podcast/life-in-the-circus/449372

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinthecircuspodcast

Relevant Hashtags

#PeterDeluise #Storytelling #Stargate #BehindTheScenes #Entertainment

Discover the secrets behind captivating cinematography. Learn how professionals in the film industry approach storytelling through the lens.

Gain insights into the journey of acclaimed director of photography, Stirling Bancroft. Explore how he turns challenges into opportunities, the art of collaborating with directors, and the balance between creativity and technical skill. Find out how understanding visual style plays a vital role in filmmaking and how personal experiences shape a cinematographer's perspective.

Life in the Circus Podcast

Website: https://circuspodcast.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTheCircusPodcast

Podcast Hosting: https://hubhopper.com/podcast/life-in-the-circus/449372

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinthecircuspodcast

Relevant Hashtags

#Cinematography #FilmIndustry #Storytelling #Directors #CreativeProcess

Discover the hidden world of sound in filmmaking with Neil McBride, an expert boom operator. 

In this engaging session, learn about Neil's fascinating journey in the film industry from the mid-90s to becoming one of the best in Vancouver. Uncover the vital role sound plays in movies and how it can make or break a scene. Neil shares background stories, his passion for being on set, and the unique challenges he faces as a boom operator, including handling unexpected situations during long shoot days.

Life in the Circus Podcast

Website: https://circuspodcast.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTheCircusPodcast 

Podcast Hosting: https://hubhopper.com/podcast/life-in-the-circus/449372

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinthecircuspodcast

Relevant Hashtags

#FilmIndustry #SoundDesign #BoomOperator #BehindTheScenes #FilmmakingSecrets