Past Present Feature with Marcus Mizelle

Marcus interviews Carlos Vargas from Berlin, who is premiering his film “Hidden Era” at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 9th at the Village East. They discuss Carlos’s previous experience at Tribeca, his expectations for this year's festival, and the importance of the New York film scene. They also talk about his film, Hidden Era, and its similarities to the French movie "The Beautiful Troublemaker". They touch on the challenges of being a filmmaker and the joy of creating art.

Overall, the conversation highlights the passion and dedication required to be a filmmaker, the value of shooting with natural light, and the concept of transcendental cinema. They also discuss the importance of simplicity and authenticity in storytelling and finding the right people to champion your project.

Short Ends

• The New York film scene is important for supporting filmmakers
• Hidden Era is a film that explores the relationship between an artist and a woman
• Appreciation and support are crucial in the filmmaking community The film 'Hidden Era' explores the lives of marginalized individuals in Maputo, Mozambique, and highlights the challenges they face.
• The use of natural lighting in cinematography can create a realistic and authentic feel in films.
• Simplicity in filmmaking can be effective and powerful, allowing the audience to connect with the story and characters.
• The integration of women in film is important for challenging stereotypes and promoting gender equality.
• Shooting and directing at the same time requires creating a strong relationship with the actors and focusing on the right moments.
• Financing and distribution are crucial aspects of bringing a film to audiences, and finding the right people to champion the film is essential.

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

Marcus speaks with Beirut-born Mira Shaib about her film "Arze", a Lebanese production that explores universal themes of family, abandonment, and societal issues. Mira discusses the World Premiere of the film at the Beijing International Film Festival, the upcoming North American premiere at Tribeca on June 11th (Village East) followed by Cairo International, and the importance of translating the story for an international audience.
 
She also shares her inspiration for quest stories like “2 Days 1 Night” from the Dardenne brothers, and their documentary-style approach to filmmaking. Mira talks about her journey as a filmmaker, influenced by her brother and her love for movies. She emphasizes the value of authenticity in storytelling and the challenges of addressing sensitive topics in Lebanese cinema.
 
The journey of creating her movie was a long and challenging one, However, she persevered and the movie is now being screened at major festivals around the World.

Short Ends

• The film 'Arze' explores themes of financial struggles, abandonment, and sectarianism in Lebanon.
• The filmmaker aims to present these issues authentically and without sugarcoating.
• Authenticity is valued in filmmaking, and the film strives to be authentic in its storytelling and performances.
• Addressing sensitive topics in Lebanese cinema can be challenging due to the fear of controversy and backlash.
• The film 'Arze' is a step forward in addressing these issues and presenting a more realistic portrayal of Lebanese society. Authenticity in filmmaking involves drawing inspiration from real stories and experiences.
• Telling stories of women's empowerment and social issues is important to Mira Shaib.
• Collaboration and trust are key in the process of directing actors.
• The journey of financing and producing a film can be challenging but rewarding.
• Mira Shaib is excited about the distribution of her film and has plans for future projects.

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

Marcus speaks with Mexico City filmmaker Santiago Maza, who shares his insights on documentary filmmaking and his inspired appreciation for the doc "Collective". Santiago's latest film "State of Silence", Executive Produced by Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal, World Premieres  at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 10th and is followed by Sheffield DocFest and  Guadalajara International Film Festival June 13th.

"State of Silence" highlights the importance of independent journalism in Mexico. The film aims to raise awareness and create change by humanizing the journalists and their stories, who face violence and threats for reporting on issues such as corruption and cartel-related activities. The filmmakers discuss the challenges faced by journalists in their line of work and the power of documentaries to spark change.

Short Ends

Santiago Maza Stern discusses his love for documentary filmmaking and how he uses cinematic elements within the genre.

• 'State of Silence' is a documentary that highlights the importance of independent journalism in Mexico and is executive produced by Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal.
• Santiago emphasizes the significance of allowing stories to unfold naturally and capturing real-world moments in documentary filmmaking.
• He talks about the process of shaping an idea for a documentary and the importance of finding the right characters and story.
• Santiago shares his approach to structuring and editing documentaries, using index cards to organize scenes and create a cinematic experience.
• He discusses the power of observational filmmaking and the use of talking heads as a tool to add layers of information.
• Santiago draws inspiration from films like 'Collective' and aims to create documentaries that engage the audience and make them active participants in the story.
• The film 'State of Silence' was initially conceived as a series but was adapted into a feature documentary due to the political risks involved. The film 'State of Silence' highlights the importance of independent journalism in Mexico and the dangers faced by journalists who report on corruption and cartel-related activities.
• The filmmakers emphasize the power of documentaries to create change by humanizing the journalists and their stories, and by raising awareness about the issues they face.
• Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal‘s involvement in the project brings attention and support to the cause of independent journalism in Mexico.
• The filmmakers discuss the challenges faced by journalists, including violence, threats, and the need for greater support and protection from the government and society.
• The film aims to reach audiences in Mexico, the United States, and Europe, and the filmmakers are actively seeking distribution and partnerships to amplify its impact.
• Keeping things simple is almost always better, especially 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

Marcus Mizelle interviews Los Angeles-based filmmaker Roxy Shih about her journey in the film industry, what past films most inspired her ("The Umbrellas of Cherbourg", "The Shining"), and her latest film "Beacon" ahead of its World Premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival.

They discuss the challenges of being a filmmaker in the current Hollywood landscape, the importance of creative storytelling, and the impact of personal experiences on filmmaking. Roxy shares her passion for intimate stories and the need for more diverse representation in the industry. They also touch on the power of podcasting as a form of therapy and connection. Overall, the conversation explores themes of identity, creativity, and the human experience.

Short Ends

• The current Hollywood landscape can be discouraging for filmmakers, with a focus on IP fatigue and a lack of investment in creative and diverse stories.
• Filmmakers should prioritize making what they are passionate about, as it often pays off more than trying to cater to what they think others want to see.
• Podcasting can be a therapeutic and vulnerable space for self-expression and connection.
• Sociology and the study of human behavior can provide valuable insights and inspiration for filmmakers.
• Genre films can be a powerful way to explore and confront real-life fears and anxieties. 
• Director Roxy Shih, discusses the inspiration behind the film and the process of casting and working with the actors.
• The production faced challenges such as extreme weather conditions and a tight shooting schedule.
• Being resourceful and having the right team are crucial in overcoming challenges during film production. Producing your own work gives you an understanding of the challenges and helps you appreciate the role of producers.
• Balancing creative vision with commercial appeal is important for a sustainable career in filmmaking.
• Marketing plays a crucial role in getting films seen and finding success.
• Well-made films can gain popularity over time, even with limited marketing.
• Tideline is a production company that supports innovative storytellers.
• Roxy Shih expresses her desire to remake Mulan and explores the theme of mother-daughter relationships in her work.
• Letting your light shine and de-centering yourself as an artist can lead to creative freedom and alignment with like-minded individuals.

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

Welcome to Past Present Feature, a filmmaker appreciation podcast showcasing new festival releases and the past films that inspired them.

As a filmmaker myself, I started this podcast to build community while talking shop, and to show love to past cinema that sparked a new wave of filmmakers to create the films of the future.

Let's roll it!

Marcus Mizelle

What Movies Are You Watching?

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