Creative Spaces and Productivity Hacks for Filmmakers to reach Creative Flow

In this episode of the Get Reelisms podcast, hosts Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen discuss various productivity hacks for filmmakers. Christine shares her experiences with house sitting, taking scenic train trips, and finding ways to avoid distractions to enhance her writing process. They explore the benefits of unconventional workspaces, like working on Amtrak trains, and how these environments can lead to creative flow states. The conversation also acknowledges the importance of respecting all roles in the filmmaking process. Additionally, they talk about a recent event called Scene Lab, designed to provide directors with a space to practice directing and workshopping scenes. The episode concludes with anticipation for an upcoming interview with Michael Goi, the renowned DP for American Horror Story and recipient of the ASC Lifetime Achievement Award. 

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

getreelisms.com 

00:00 Introduction to Productivity Hacks 

00:44 Welcome to the Get Reelisms Podcast 

01:05 Escaping LA for Creativity 

01:45 The Scenic Train Ride to Seattle 

03:20 The Benefits of Monotonous Activities 

04:30 Challenges of Writing Without WiFi 

06:59 Tools and Techniques for Writing on the Go 

09:15 The Joy of Train Travel 

15:17 Exploring New Environments for Creativity 

16:36 Managing Distractions with iPhone Focus 

17:33 Writing Hacks and Productivity Tips 

18:16 Balancing Work and Leisure 

20:49 Respecting All Roles in Filmmaking 

23:25 Challenges of Low-Budget Filmmaking 

26:16 Directing Techniques and Scene Lab 

32:56 Upcoming Guest: Michael Goi

Official Get Reelisms Page

Get Reelisms Amazon Store

Instagram