Past Present Feature with Marcus Mizelle

Past Present Feature with Marcus Mizelle

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Past Present Feature with Marcus Mizelle episodes

  • E14 • The Power of the Underdog • NIKHIL NAGESH BHAT , dir. of ‘Kill’, Now in Theaters following TIFF + Tribeca

    Today I speak with Mumbai-based director Nikhil Nagesh Bhat about his kick-ass action film ‘Kill’, which premiered at TIFF last year and is now globally distributed by Lionsgate. We discuss Nikhil’s journey into the film industry, from watching Indian action films on television as a child, and his love for James Cameron’s ‘Aliens’.

    He shares his experiences with rejection and the importance of patience and persistence in filmmaking. The conversation also touches on the financing and production of his latest film ‘Kill’ and the challenges and excitement of premiering at film festivals. 

    Nikhil expresses his belief in underdog stories and aims to create films that combine thrilling action with humor and emotional depth. He also shares his desire to remake Paul Verhoeven’s 'RoboCop'.


    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    39 min
  • E13 • Taking the Long Shots • ZHENGFAN YANG , dir. of ‘Stranger’, Grand Prix Winner at KVIFF

    In this episode, I speak with Zhengfan Yang about his film 'Stranger’, which just won the Grand Prix prize in the Proxima Competition at Karlovy Vary. We also discuss his past cinema inspiration, ‘A One and a Two’, the 2000 film by Taiwanese filmmaker Edward Yang.

    Zhengfan talks about the challenges of shooting his film in 7 total shots, each in a different hotel room, and the importance of the setting and space as a character. He emphasizes the importance of sticking to his original concept of shooting long takes and the pressure to find the right beginning and end for each take. 

    Zhengfan shares his experience with financing and the long process of securing funding from various different countries. He reflects on the changing landscape of cinema and the challenges of having his films seen by a wide audience. He also shares filmmaking advice - to stay true to your vision and make the most honest film possible.


    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    41 min
  • E12 • The Importance of Not Knowing • PAOLO TIZÓN , dir. of ‘Night Has Come’, Special Jury Award + FIPRESCI Winner at KVIFF
    This episode features Paolo Tizón and his documentary “Night Has Come”, which just won the Special Jury Award and the FIPRESCI (Critic) Award at the 58th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. His main inspiration for the film: ‘Beau Travail’ (1999) by Claire Denis.

    We discuss cinematic techniques used in documentaries, the importance of not knowing and being open to surprises while filming - how to listen to the material, editing and structuring a documentary, and the personal motivations behind making his film. We also touch on the connection between music and cinema, the importance of taking breaks during editing, and the value of test screenings. 

    Paolo discusses the stress and excitement of delivering and premiering ‘Night Has Come’, and shares his strong love for the medium of film.

    Short Ends

    • Getting into film festivals can exceed expectations and open doors to bigger opportunities.
    • Using cinematic techniques in documentaries can create a more engaging and immersive experience for the audience.
    • Not knowing and being open to surprises while filming is an important part of documentary filmmaking.
    • Editing and structuring a documentary can be a challenging task, but it is crucial to listen to the material and let it guide the process.
    • Personal motivations and curiosity can drive the creation of a documentary film.
    • There is a strong connection between music and cinema, and pairing music with images can enhance the storytelling. Taking breaks during the editing process allows for fresh eyes and new perspectives.
    • Test screenings are crucial for understanding audience reactions and making necessary changes.
    • Directing and shooting the film as a cinematographer can create a unique and personal connection to the material.
    • Delivering a film can be a stressful and often overlooked aspect of the filmmaking process.
    • Premiering a film at a festival is a mix of excitement and pressure to make the most of the experience.
    • Drawing inspiration from other films can inform and shape the creative choices in a documentary.
    • The filmmaker's next project involves experimenting with fiction and challenging themselves with different formats and cameras.
    • Filmmaking is a deeply engaging and fulfilling art form that allows for personal growth and connection with others.

    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    47 min
  • E11 • The Beauty of Change • IVANA GLORIA, dir. of ‘Chlorophyll’ at the Rome Film Fest + KVIFF
    Ivana Gloria, the director of ‘Chlorophyll’, which World Premiered at the Rome International Film Festival, followed by a warm reception at Karlovy Vary, shares her journey and challenges as a filmmaker, having been heavily inspired by the 2018 Swedish film ‘Border’ from director Ali Abbasi.

    The conversation also revolves around Ivana’s film ‘Chlorophyll’ and its theme of change - specifically the fear and beauty of change. She speaks on the importance of rehearsals, and being open to new ideas during the filmmaking process, which can lead to unexpected and magical moments. 

    Ivana discusses the value of film festivals in building connections and networking with other filmmakers, and she also mentions her future projects, including a documentary and a short film. She also speaks on the Rome film scene.



    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    42 min
  • E10 • Sharpening a Film Into Success • NELICIA LOW, dir. of ‘Pierce’ - BEST DIRECTOR Winner at the Karlovy Vary Int. Film Festival
    In this episode, filmmaker Nelicia Low discusses her film 'Pierce', which she just won the Best Director award for at Karlovy Vary. She talks about her past cinema inspirations which include Ang Lee’s ‘Lust, Caution’, and her experiences studying at Columbia University.

    The conversation highlights the value of editing and music in her film, her directing choices including casting and working with her actors, and the creative solutions used to overcome production challenges. She also speaks on the collaboration with her director of photography and the visual choices they made to create a sense of surrealism and connection between the characters. 

    The conversation delves into the personal inspiration behind the film and the autobiographical elements that influenced the story. Financing and distribution (Magnolia Pictures) are also discussed, highlighting the challenges and support systems necessary for today’s independent filmmakers.

    Short Ends

    • Filmmaking is a personal and challenging journey that requires dedication and perseverance.
    • The value of editing and the role it plays in shaping a film cannot be underestimated.
    • Music is an important element in film and can enhance the emotional impact of a scene.
    • Love is a complex and ever-evolving concept that can be explored through storytelling.
    • Cinematography and directing choices can greatly contribute to the overall impact and aesthetic of a film.
    • Overcoming production challenges requires creativity and resourcefulness. Using existing locations and incorporating real-life elements can add authenticity to a film.
    • Collaboration between the director and director of photography is crucial in creating the desired visual style and atmosphere.
    • Personal experiences and emotions can serve as powerful inspiration for storytelling.
    • Financing a film can be challenging, but seeking grants and international funding opportunities can help.
    • Having a strong support system is essential for navigating the difficulties and uncertainties of the filmmaking process.

    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    1 hr 17 min
  • E9 • The Passage of Time • BRUNO ANKOVIĆ, dir. of ‘Celebration’ at the Karlovy Vary Int. Film Festival

    On today’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bruno Anković about his new film ‘Celebration’, which premiered at this years Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Crystal Globe competition. We dive into the themes and storytelling techniques used in ‘Celebration’, which explores the cyclical nature of history and the challenges of portraying the passage of time through different actors. 

    We also discuss Bruno’s cinema influences, including Michael Haneke’s ‘The White Ribbon’ (2009) and Jim Sheridan’s ‘The Field’ (1990). Other past inspiration includes the Croatian films ‘Handcuffs’ (Croatian title - “Lisice”), dir. Krsto Papić (1969) and ‘The Birch Tree’ (Croatian title - “Breza”), dir. Antę Babaja (1967). 

    The discussion also provides insights into Bruno’s creative process and the connection between personal experiences and artistic expression. It explores the challenges of making a film that tackles sensitive topics and the importance of creating dialogue and understanding. Bruno discusses the political and social context of the Balkans region and the ongoing tensions that exist. His film ‘Celebration’ aims to shed light on why young people can be drawn to extreme ideologies, and the impact of poverty and lack of education.

    Short Ends

    • The current cinema landscape is influenced by past films and filmmakers like Michael Haneke and Jim Sheridan, and it is important to appreciate and learn from their work.
    • The passage of time can be effectively portrayed through storytelling techniques such as nonlinear narratives and the use of different actors to represent different stages of a character's life.
    • Filmmaking is a powerful medium for exploring historical and social themes, and it allows for a deeper understanding of the cyclical nature of history.
    • Personal experiences and cultural backgrounds can shape the creative process and influence the themes and storytelling choices in a film.
    • Filmmaking can be a powerful tool for addressing sensitive topics and creating dialogue and understanding.
    • The Balkans region continues to face political and social tensions, and the film ‘Celebration’ aims to shed light on these issues.
    • The film explores the reasons why young people can be drawn to extreme ideologies, highlighting the impact of poverty and lack of education.
    • Film festivals play a crucial role in promoting and distributing independent films, and sales agents are important in navigating the industry.


    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    55 min
  • E8 • Keeping It Real • PAVEL G. VESNAKOV, dir. of 'Windless' at the Karlovy Vary Int. Film Festival
    Bulgarian filmmaker Pavel Vesnakov discusses his journey in the film industry and his film 'Windless'. He talks about the importance of World Premiering at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival - a significant milestone for him. He shares his early influences, including the films 'Taste of Cherry' by Abbas Kiarostami and '3 Iron' by Kim Ki-duk, which inspired him to pursue filmmaking.


    Pavel speaks on the challenges of making films in Bulgaria and the impact of working in the TV industry, the importance of realism in his films, and how his perspective has evolved over the years. We discuss the influence of the Romanian New Wave on his filmmaking style, the importance of capturing the mundane and authentic aspects of human existence, and the challenges of distributing and finding an audience for art films. We also touch on the use of specific techniques in 'Windless', such as the one-to-one aspect ratio and the incorporation of home video footage. 

    Vesnakov shares his thoughts on the themes of memory, time, and identity, and his desire to create movies that allow viewers to reflect on their own lives and existence. He also mentions his upcoming project, 'Deconstruction', which explores the concept of going back in time.


    Short Ends


    • Pavel G. Vesnakov is excited about the world premiere of his film 'Windless' at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
    • He discusses the challenges of making films in Bulgaria, including limited funding and a small cinema industry.
    • Pavel shares his early influences, including the films 'Taste of Cherry' by Abbas Kiarostami and '3 Iron' by Kim Ki-Duk, which inspired him to pursue filmmaking.
    • Working in the TV industry helped him overcome shyness and develop a better understanding of what he wants to achieve as a director.
    • He emphasizes the importance of realism in his films and the impact of capturing authentic moments on screen. 
    • The Romanian New Wave has influenced Vesnakov's filmmaking style
    • Art films face challenges in distribution and finding an audience
    • Memory, time, and identity are recurring themes in Vesnakov's work
    • Creating movies that allow viewers to reflect on their own lives and existence
    • Vesnakov's upcoming project, 'Deconstruction', explores the concept of going back in time

    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    51 min
  • E7 • Living The Dream • ANJA KREIS, dir. of 'The Alienated' at the Karlovy Vary Int. Film Festival

    On this week's episode, Marcus speaks with Russian filmmaker Anja Kreis, who shares her perspectives on Russia, the global allure of Hollywood, and the process of making her latest film 'The Alienated', which is World premiering at Karlovy Vary on July 2nd. 

    With its themes of mortality, dreams, and sisterhood, 'The Alienated' draws inspiration from David Lynch's 'Mulholland Drive'. She also shares her childhood fascination with Brazilian and Argentinian telenovelas, being drawn to the simple human relationships and dramatic themes portrayed in these series. They discuss the effectiveness of simple human stories, and Marcus compares her own dream as a filmmaker to Naomi Watts' character in 'Mulholland Drive'.

    Anja also discusses her journey from studying German language and literature to pursuing a career in filmmaking. She talks about the challenges of getting a second education in Russia, and the differences between German and Russian film cultures, highlighting the emphasis on personal stories and authenticity. She talks about the Russian filmmakers who have inspired her the most and the frustration of receiving negative feedback from distributors. Anja expresses her desire to have her films seen by large audiences, and the importance of mental health while pursuing a career in filmmaking.

    Short Ends

    • Russia and America share similarities, and Hollywood has a global allure.
    • Filmmaking can be a challenging and rewarding process, especially with limited resources.
    • Film festivals provide opportunities for recognition and networking.
    • Personal experiences and themes of mortality often influence filmmakers' work.
    • David Lynch's films, like 'Mulholland Drive', can inspire and influence other filmmakers. Childhood fascinations can shape our dreams and aspirations.
    • Simple human relationships and dramatic themes can be effective in storytelling.
    • The film industry can be challenging to navigate, with corruption and limited opportunities.
    • German filmmaking culture emphasizes personal stories and authenticity.
    • Distribution can be a frustrating and complex process for filmmakers.
    • Mental health is important in pursuing a career in filmmaking.
    • Sticking to one's artistic vision is crucial, even in the face of criticism.
    • Connecting with other filmmakers and sharing experiences can be inspiring and valuable.


    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    55 min
  • E6 • Seek Your Truth • GEORGE SIKHARULIDZE, dir. of 'Panopticon' at the Karlovy Vary Int. Film Festival

    Filmmaker George Sikharulidze joins Marcus from Tbilisi, Georgia to discuss his feature film debut 'Panopticon', which is World Premiering at the prestigious 58th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival on June 30th at The Grand Hall, and competing for the festival's top prize: the Crystal Globe. 

    A variety of topics include the influence of Francois Truffaut's 'The 400 Blows', the importance of honesty in filmmaking, the concept of Panopticism, and the value of making the films you regret. Other topics include the experience of watching one's own film, the challenges of making a feature film compared to shorts, the value of film labs and festivals, and the difficulties of the Georgian Film Center.

    George emphasizes the importance of serving the story and removing oneself as a director.

    Short Ends

    • The concept of panopticism and its influence on filmmaking
    • The impact of Truffaut's '400 Blows' on the director's own work
    • The value of developing a project through film school
    • The importance of structure and honesty in filmmaking
    • The excitement and anxiety of premiering a film at a festival 
    • The experience of watching one's own film can vary, but the goal is to reach a point where the filmmaker can enjoy it without being overly concerned with others' opinions.
    • Making a feature film presents different challenges compared to making shorts, such as carrying the entire story in one's head and shooting out of order.
    • Film labs and festivals can provide valuable opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their work, meet industry professionals, and gain recognition.
    • A director's job is to serve the story and remove themselves from the film, allowing the story to take center stage.
    • The filmmaker has future projects in development and is motivated to continue making films.
    • Honesty with oneself is crucial in the filmmaking process, avoiding distractions and staying true to the vision.


    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    1 hr 2 min
  • E5 • Trust The Silence • JEAN-COSME DELALOYE, dir. of 'Desire: The Carl Craig Story' at the Tribeca Film Festival

    In this week’s episode, we have Swedish-born, Brooklyn-based Jean-Cosme Delaloye, who shares his early days as a reporter and his transition into documentary filmmaking, having been inspired by the 2016 film ‘Tempestad’ and most recently, Oscar-winning short doc ‘The Last Repair Shop’. He talks about how his experiences covering sad stories led him to find refuge in techno music, which inspired his latest film 'Desire: The Carl Craig Story’, which is World Premiering on June 12th with the Tribeca Film Festival, at the Indeed Theater.  

    Jean-Cosme breaks down his approach to storytelling, focusing on the emotional impact rather than just delivering information. He also highlights the importance of collaboration with his director of photography and editor, the role of the director in maintaining objectivity, how documentary filmmaking requires patience, generosity, and building trust with subjects, and how taking the time to listen and allowing the story to unfold naturally can lead to powerful moments.

    Short Ends

    • Jean-Cosme's journey as a filmmaker started from his days as a reporter, covering sad stories that inspired him to find refuge in techno music.
    • His latest film 'Desire' explores the emotional impact of Detroit techno music through the story of DJ Carl Craig.
    • Jean-Cosme focuses on the emotional aspects of storytelling, aiming to make the audience feel the music rather than just delivering information.
    • The structure of 'Desire' follows a pre-party, party, and after-party format, reflecting the ups and downs of Carl Craig's career.
    • Collaboration with a director of photography and editor is crucial in shaping the film and creating a cohesive narrative. Good editing can transform a film and give it a different meaning and pacing.
    • Directors should not be too precious and should be open to feedback and guidance from editors.
    • Maintaining objectivity as a director and being able to separate oneself from the film is important.
    • Premiering at film festivals can be a rewarding experience and a validation of one's work.
    • Distribution can be challenging for independent filmmakers, but having experienced producers can be helpful.
    • Documentary filmmaking requires patience, generosity, and building trust with subjects.
    • Taking the time to listen and allowing the story to unfold naturally can lead to powerful moments in filmmaking.


    What Movies Are You Watching?

    https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

    Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

    Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

    This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

    If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

    Support the show


    Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeature

    The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature


    44 min

About Past Present Feature with Marcus Mizelle

From the publisher's feed

Past Present Feature is a film appreciation podcast hosted by Emmy-winning director Marcus Mizelle, showcasing today’s filmmakers, their latest release, and the past cinema that inspired them.