Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and today I had the pleasure of speaking with award-winning filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux. In this engaging conversation, we dive deep into Jaze’s journey from growing up in the United States to ultimately finding his true home in Canada. He shares his experiences moving through different states, the cultural diversity he encountered along the way, and how those experiences shaped his perspective as a filmmaker.

We also discuss the importance of understanding the business side of filmmaking, especially when it comes to financing projects. Jaze emphasizes that every film is essentially a startup, requiring careful planning, clarity, and a solid financial structure. He encourages aspiring filmmakers to take their time developing their stories and to be precise and realistic about their asks when pitching projects.

This episode is packed with practical insights and hard-earned wisdom for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of film production. Don’t miss these lessons that could save you both time and money on your filmmaking journey.

00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Presentation

00:00:42 - Guest's Early Life and Background

00:04:03 - Guest's Perception of American and Canadian Mindsets

00:06:36 - Guest's Appreciation for North American Diversity

00:09:38 - Guest's Entrepreneurial Journey

00:14:02 - Guest's Inspiration in Entrepreneurship

00:15:16 - Guest's Approach to Financing and Planning

00:20:37 - Guest's Learning Experience and Practical Advice

00:21:29 - Guest's Insights on Film Production

00:22:19 - Advice for Young Filmmakers

00:24:22 - Importance of a Clear Pitch

00:29:10 - Changes in the Film Industry

Check out these links:

http://jazebordeaux.com/

https://www.facebook.com/jazebordeaux/

https://www.instagram.com/jazebordeaux/

https://www.threads.net/@jazebordeaux

https://www.tiktok.com/@jazebordeaux

https://x.com/jazebordeaux

Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I sit down with Alexandra Beller to dive deep into the role of movement in theater and performance.

Alexandra breaks down how movement evolves organically through collaboration between actors, directors, and designers. She explains how the actor’s body, the director’s vision, and the text itself all interact to create a fully realized performance. Rather than treating movement as something added on, Alexandra emphasizes how it emerges naturally when those elements are truly in dialogue with one another.

She shares insight into analyzing character dynamics and highlights the importance of timing in dialogue. Using examples from television, Alexandra contrasts the rapid-fire rhythm of shows like Gilmore Girls with the more spacious, emotionally driven pacing of This Is Us, illustrating how tempo and rhythm shape audience response.

Alexandra also discusses the significance of space onstage—how proximity, distance, and physical orientation can deeply influence emotional stakes and storytelling. Her approach offers practical tools for actors to make clearer, more grounded choices that resonate with audiences.

Whether you’re an aspiring actor or a seasoned performer, this conversation is packed with valuable techniques to deepen your craft. Join us as Alexandra Beller reveals how movement, timing, and physical awareness can bring authenticity, clarity, and emotional power to performance.

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:17 - The Evolution of Movement

00:01:36 - The Importance of Timing

00:02:27 - Stylization and Its Impact

00:04:38 - The Role of Space

00:05:20 - Reading Characters

00:06:14 - Understanding Body Language

00:07:22 - The Role of the Director

00:07:57 - The Balance Between Instinct and Analysis

00:09:14 - Nonverbal Communication and Characterization

00:11:21 - Experiencing Film in a Meditative State

00:12:53 - The Influence of Different Forms of Theater

00:13:55 - The Concept of Constellatory Thinking

00:15:28 - Working with Directors

00:17:28 - Choreography and Directing

00:18:58 - Theater and Cultural Influence

00:21:18 - Praxis Space: A Creative Community

00:21:20 - The Anatomy of Art: A New Book

00:29:59 - Daily Routines and Practices

00:31:15 - Personal Health and Fitness

00:31:30 - Reading and Learning Preferences

00:32:07 - Music Interests

00:32:53 - Current TV Shows and Movies

00:33:23 - Discussion on Superman Movie

00:36:29 - Contact and Course Information

Check out her website: ⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org/

Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode, Alexandra Beller takes us deep into the role of movement in acting and how it naturally evolves through collaboration between actors, directors, and designers.

Alexandra explains that movement isn’t something imposed on a performance—it emerges from the relationship between body language, text, and the energetic exchange between characters. She talks about recognizing when something feels “off” in a scene and how that friction can actually be used as a creative tool to strengthen performance rather than something to avoid.

Drawing from examples in television, Alexandra discusses how shows like Gilmore Girls and This Is Us use timing, rhythm, and dialogue to generate emotional impact. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and stakes, noting how a director’s guidance around movement can deepen narrative clarity and emotional truth.

Throughout the conversation, Alexandra highlights how physical choices can reveal character intention and elevate storytelling. She also introduces her upcoming book, The Anatomy of Art, which explores the artistic process and includes practical exercises designed to help creatives grow through embodied practice.

If you’re interested in how movement, energy, and intention intersect in performance, this episode offers valuable insight into how physicality can transform acting from the inside out.

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:18 - Collaboration in Art

00:01:05 - Analyzing and Understanding Actors

00:01:37 - Interpreting and Directing Dialogues

00:02:51 - Stylization and Context in Film

00:04:39 - Reading Characters and Predicting Outcomes

00:06:12 - Understanding Body Language in Acting

00:09:14 - Interpreting Non-Verbal Communication

00:11:21 - Experiencing Film and Theater

00:11:50 - Engagement and Authenticity in Performance

00:12:54 - Influence of Global Theater on Work

00:13:07 - Working with Directors

00:13:55 - Constellatory Thinking in Directing

00:15:45 - The Role of Embodiment in Directing

00:17:30 - The Art of Choreography

00:18:58 - Influence of Global Theater Styles

00:21:21 - Praxis Space: An Artistic Community

00:21:22 - The Anatomy of Art: A New Book

00:21:22 - The Anatomy of Art: A Deeper Dive

00:25:47 - The Role of Directing in Acting

00:30:00 - Inside the Actor's Studio: Quick Answers

00:31:29 - Reading Habits and Preferences

00:32:04 - Listening Preferences

00:32:04 - Watching Preferences

00:33:16 - Discussion on Recent Movies

00:33:22 - In-depth Analysis of Superman Reboot

00:36:24 - Contact Information and Course Offerings

00:37:24 - Closing Remarks

Check out her website: ⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org/

Welcome to the DMF. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode, Alexandra Beller dives deep into the four categories of energy: weight, space, time, and flow—and how understanding these elements can radically transform an actor’s process.

Alexandra explains that each category exists on a spectrum, and learning to work with them gives actors practical, embodied tools instead of vague direction. She addresses a common frustration performers face: when a director asks for something like “more aggressive” without explaining what that actually means. Alexandra breaks down how to translate those abstract notes into clear, physical choices that live in the body.

She emphasizes that the body often understands things language can’t articulate, and that tapping into physical instinct leads to more truthful, grounded performances. Alexandra also shares her approach to directing, which prioritizes physicality, intuition, and energetic awareness over rigid intellectual analysis.

Throughout the conversation, she explores how actors can use energy dynamics to deepen their work—whether in rehearsal, performance, or character preparation. Alexandra also discusses the balance between instinct and analysis, showing how both can coexist to elevate an actor’s craft rather than compete with each other.

If you’re an actor looking to unlock new levels of creativity, presence, and expression, this episode offers powerful tools to rethink how you approach performance. Join us as we explore the language of energy—and how it can revolutionize your acting journey.

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:05 - Understanding the Four Categories of Energy

00:00:38 - Interpreting Directing Terms

00:00:56 - Interpreting Directing Terms: Case Study

00:01:27 - The Limitations of Traditional Directing Terms

00:02:35 - The Role of Embodiment in Acting

00:04:10 - The Limitations of Vocabulary

00:04:41 - The Power of Body Language

00:06:44 - The Role of Contradiction in Acting

00:08:36 - The Importance of Balance Between Analysis and Intuition

00:11:04 - The Role of Analysis in the Creative Process

00:11:15 - The Role of Intuition in the Creative Process

00:12:57 - The Importance of Tasting the Work

00:14:08 - The Role of Animal Instincts in Acting

00:15:20 - Analyzing an Actor's Kinesphere

00:16:03 - The Case of Antonio's Song

00:16:51 - Using Animal Instincts in Character Development

00:17:42 - The Process of Character Movement Analysis

00:18:14 - Creating Character Profiles for Performance

00:19:08 - The Challenge of Multiple Characters in One Performance

Check out her website: ⁠

⁠https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org/

Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I’m thrilled to introduce you to Alexandra Beller, an incredible artist, choreographer, and soon-to-be-published author. In this first part of our conversation, we dive deep into Alexandra's upbringing in Queens during the vibrant 80s, a time that profoundly influenced her artistic journey. She shares how the rich diversity of characters and experiences around her shaped her resilience and creativity. From sneaking into the Metropolitan Museum to sketch Rembrandts to her first dance class at summer camp, Alexandra's story is one of passion and discovery. We explore the importance of embodiment in dance and how it transcends mere movement, allowing for a deeper connection to oneself. Alexandra also discusses her academic journey at the University of Michigan, where she double-majored in dance and English, seeking a balance between technical skill and literary prowess. This conversation is not just about dance; it’s about finding your voice, challenging societal norms, and embracing the complexities of human expression. Join us as we uncover the layers of creativity and the power of asking 'why' in art. Don’t miss out on this inspiring dialogue that encourages you to explore your own artistic potential!

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:29 - Growing Up in Queens, New York

00:00:39 - Influence of New York on Career

00:02:26 - Early Exposure to Art and Culture

00:03:31 - Discovering Dance

00:05:08 - College Experience and Majoring in Dance and English

00:06:57 - Influence of Literature and Bible Study

00:08:42 - Changing Perspectives and Adapting

00:09:16 - Challenging Established Norms in Art

00:11:11 - Pushing Boundaries in Casting and Directing

00:14:01 - Addressing Controversial Content in Older Stories

00:15:29 - Questioning Societal Norms in Storytelling

00:16:04 - Reimagining Macbeth

00:19:17 - The Need for Empathy in Storytelling

00:20:00 - Staying True to the Text

00:21:52 - The Importance of 'How' in Storytelling

00:23:35 - The Role of Improvisation in Creativity

00:24:45 - Introduction to Laban and Bartenieff

00:25:08 - The Influence of Laban and Bartenieff on Dance

00:30:52 - Using Movement for Character Development

00:31:30 - Recognizing Non-Neutrality in Acting

00:32:04 - Associations and Emotions in Acting

00:32:25 - Interpreting Anger in Acting

00:34:05 - Understanding Personal Energy in Acting

00:34:32 - The Role of Laban's Effort in Acting

00:35:57 - Manipulating Energy in Acting

00:36:19 - Conclusion

Check out her website:

https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org/

Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I'm thrilled to introduce Christine Lamont, a powerhouse in the film industry. Christine has spent years honing her craft, producing impactful documentaries like 'Ai Weiwei's Turandot' and 'Viva Verde.' In our conversation, we dive deep into her journey, from her childhood in Buffalo, New York, to her experiences working with legendary directors and navigating the complexities of the film world. Christine shares her passion for the arts, the importance of mentorship, and how her love for film has shaped her career. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of producing, the significance of storytelling, and the role of art in fostering social change. Christine's insights are not only inspiring but also a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration in the film industry. Join us as we explore the magic of film and the stories that connect us all. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the arts and the impact they can have on our lives.

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:09 - Guest Introduction

00:00:28 - Christine Lamont's Early Life

00:01:09 - Interest in Arts

00:02:10 - Influence of Art on Film Career

00:04:34 - Education and Early Career

00:05:30 - Transition to Producing

00:05:35 - Experience at Universal, Disney and Orion

00:07:06 - Working at Orion Pictures

00:08:00 - Experience at Disney and Universal

00:11:09 - Working on Iconic Films

00:11:41 - Marketing for Silence of the Lambs

00:12:01 - Working with Directors and the End of Orion

00:16:46 - Creation of Lamont Productions

00:17:12 - Producing Plays and Films

00:18:36 - Project Viva Verde

00:19:25 - Working with Zeffirelli

00:21:07 - Impact of Viva Verde

00:24:26 - Project Ai Weiwei's Turandot

00:29:21 - Ai Weiwei's Turandot and the Pandemic

00:30:56 - Reflections on Ai Weiwei's Turandot

00:31:59 - Ai Weiwei's Political Activism

00:35:50 - Creating the Dusty Awards at SVA

00:37:47 - The Importance of Diverse Voices in Film

00:40:31 - Teaching and the Value of Fearlessness

00:41:53 - The Need for Cultural Awareness and Questioning

00:45:45 - Future Projects

00:46:07 - Future Projects and Writing Aspirations

00:46:49 - The Power of Saying Yes

00:47:57 - The Journey of the Everyday Hero

00:50:14 - Daily Routines and Work Schedule

00:51:31 - Nighttime Routine and Film Watching

00:55:00 - Meditation Practices

00:58:25 - Physical Fitness Activities

00:59:19 - Current Reading

01:01:35 - Reading Habits and Impact

01:03:57 - Anticipation for Tom Ford's 'Cry to Heaven'

01:05:17 - Appreciation for David Lynch and Tom Ford

01:06:24 - Listening to Opera and Jazz

01:10:05 - The Role and Resilience of a Producer

01:11:50 - Current Film Watching

01:13:33 - Contact Information

01:13:50 - Closing Remarks

I messed up on these episodes .I am putting out this episode without cuts. The AI, I used has been cutting things off. I apologize. Hopefully, someone else will learn from my mistake.

Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and today we’re spotlighting the wisdom and creative spirit of Christine La Monte, who reminds us of the power of one simple word: yes. For Christine, saying yes has opened doors throughout her life and career — from directing plays to embracing unexpected film projects. One such opportunity is tied to her husband’s book, Justice Deferred, which was once optioned by Warner Brothers and has now returned to her control. With screenwriter Laura Curran attached, Christine is actively pushing forward to bring it to life as a feature or series.

Christine speaks openly about embracing challenges with purpose. She often reflects on the book The Journey of the Everyday Hero, a philosophy she lives by — that every challenge carries the seed of growth. She believes deeply that experiences, both good and difficult, shape who we are meant to become.

Her commitment to self-care and spirituality also fuels her creative work. Through walking meditation, saying the rosary, and carving out moments of quiet connection, Christine finds balance amid a whirlwind of meetings, screenings, and creative responsibilities.

Books remain a core source of joy and expansion for her — she belongs to two book clubs and loves the way literature broadens perspective and sparks conversation.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a writer, or someone simply looking for motivation, Christine’s journey is a reminder to say yes, lean into challenge, and trust that your path is unfolding as it should.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of the DMF. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:09 - Justice Deferred and Future Projects

00:00:57 - The Power of Saying Yes

00:02:01 - The Journey of the Everyday Hero

00:02:56 - Personal Beliefs and Practices

00:03:58 - Daily Routine

00:05:07 - Film and Television Preferences

00:06:18 - Professional Associations and Experiences

00:08:25 - Meditation Practices

00:10:55 - Physical Activities

00:11:54 - Current Reads

00:15:23 - Influence of Filmmakers

00:16:13 - Working with David Lynch

00:16:34 - Lessons from Masters

00:16:59 - Music Preferences

00:20:02 - Work Ethic

00:20:35 - The Role of Producers

00:21:34 - Current Watchlist

00:22:33 - Contact Information

I messed up on these episodes .I am putting out this episode without cuts. The AI, I used has been cutting things off. I apologize. Hopefully, someone else will learn from my mistake.

Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode, Christine La Monte shares an extraordinary creative journey that began in Rome in 2012. That pivotal moment marked her introduction to a gifted young filmmaker, Maxime Derevenko, who would later emerge as an influential voice in the worlds of opera and film.

Christine reflects on how their collaboration grew through shared curiosity, mentorship, and artistic trust—eventually leading to a powerful opera project rooted in themes of social justice, peace, and human connection. As the world entered the uncertainty of the pandemic, this work took on even greater meaning, becoming a testament to the resilience of artists and the enduring power of creativity.

She discusses the profound experience of collaborating with Ai Weiwei and the Rome Opera House, and how that partnership offered a bold, global perspective on art’s role in times of crisis. Despite having only eight performances, the opera stood as a beacon of hope and reflection during a moment when art felt more essential than ever.

Christine emphasizes the importance of mentorship and nurturing emerging talent, sharing how storytelling through art can elevate consciousness and inspire meaningful dialogue. In this conversation, she invites us to explore a world where every voice matters and creativity becomes a force for change.

Join us as we celebrate the power of collaboration, storytelling, and art’s ability to guide us toward a brighter future.

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:06 - Beginning of Film Career

00:00:25 - Meeting Maxime Derevenko

00:01:55 - Working with Ai Weiwei

00:04:42 - Impact of COVID-19

00:05:31 - Restarting in 2022

00:06:59 - Reflections on the Film

00:07:47 - Film's Oscar Consideration

00:08:22 - Role of Activism

00:09:19 - Teaching at the School of Visual Arts

00:11:01 - Reflections on Film Industry

00:12:22 - Looking Back at Career

00:13:31 - Passion for Teaching

00:14:47 - Importance of Art and Culture

00:16:20 - Closing Thoughts

00:17:04 - Conclusion

I messed up on these episodes .I am putting out this episode without cuts. The AI, I used has been cutting things off. I apologize. Hopefully, someone else will learn from my mistake.

Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I’m thrilled to introduce Christine La Monte, who shares her inspiring journey through the film industry. Growing up in Buffalo, New York, Christine was surrounded by art, culture, and cinema, which sparked her lifelong passion for storytelling and filmmaking.

From her early memories of watching films in theaters to working with major studios like Universal and Disney, Christine’s career has been shaped by powerful mentors, unforgettable projects, and a deep respect for the craft. She reflects on the lessons she learned along the way—what it truly takes to create stories that connect with audiences on an emotional level.

Christine believes film is far more than entertainment; it’s a unifying force that brings people together and gives voice to shared human experiences. In this episode, she opens up about her career, the creative risks she’s taken, and the joy of producing work that inspires others.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a creative professional, or simply someone who loves movies, Christine’s story offers insight, motivation, and a genuine love for the art of cinema. Join us as we explore the magic behind the scenes and uncover what makes storytelling such a powerful force in our lives.

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:12 - Early Life and Love for Arts

00:02:12 - College Life and Exposure to International Films

00:03:43 - Moving to Aspen and First Producing Job

00:04:38 - Career as a Studio Executive

00:07:01 - Working at Universal and Disney

00:08:06 - Moving to New Zealand and Working for TV3

00:08:53 - Joining Orion Pictures

00:10:26 - Working with Directors and Marketing Films

00:12:08 - End of Orion Pictures

00:14:24 - Transition to Producing Plays

00:16:04 - Producing Viva Verde

00:16:51 - Working with Franco Zeffirelli

00:17:13 - Development of Viva Verde

00:17:46 - Viva Verde's Impact and Recognition

00:19:06 - The Power of Intergenerational Exchange

00:20:06 - Film Distribution and Outreach

Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and today we’re spotlighting the wisdom and creative spirit of Christine La Monte, who reminds us of the power of one simple word: yes. For Christine, saying yes has opened doors throughout her life and career — from directing plays to embracing unexpected film projects. One such opportunity is tied to her husband’s book, Justice Deferred, which was once optioned by Warner Brothers and has now returned to her control. With screenwriter Laura Curran attached, Christine is actively pushing forward to bring it to life as a feature or series.

Christine speaks openly about embracing challenges with purpose. She often reflects on the book The Journey of the Everyday Hero, a philosophy she lives by — that every challenge carries the seed of growth. She believes deeply that experiences, both good and difficult, shape who we are meant to become.

Her commitment to self-care and spirituality also fuels her creative work. Through walking meditation, saying the rosary, and carving out moments of quiet connection, Christine finds balance amid a whirlwind of meetings, screenings, and creative responsibilities.

Books remain a core source of joy and expansion for her — she belongs to two book clubs and loves the way literature broadens perspective and sparks conversation.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a writer, or someone simply looking for motivation, Christine’s journey is a reminder to say yes, lean into challenge, and trust that your path is unfolding as it should.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of the DMF. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:09 - Justice Deferred and Future Projects

00:00:57 - The Power of Saying Yes

00:02:01 - The Journey of the Everyday Hero

00:02:56 - Personal Beliefs and Practices

00:03:58 - Daily Routine

00:05:07 - Film and Television Preferences

00:06:18 - Professional Associations and Experiences

00:08:25 - Meditation Practices

00:10:55 - Physical Activities

00:11:54 - Current Reads

00:15:23 - Influence of Filmmakers

00:16:13 - Working with David Lynch

00:16:34 - Lessons from Masters

00:16:59 - Music Preferences

00:20:02 - Work Ethic

00:20:35 - The Role of Producers

00:21:34 - Current Watchlist

00:22:33 - Contact Information