Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

In this class our hosts had the opportunity to speak with Emmy Winner, Tyler Perry Dreamers Fellow and UNLV Film student Hisonni Mustafa about the significance of diversity programs for emerging filmmakers. These include the Commercial Directors Diversity Program, the Tyler Perry Dreamers Collective, the Veterans Writers Project, Rideback Rise and more!

Interested in any of these programs? Follow the links provided below:

Commercial Directors Diversity Program: https://www.cddprogram.org/
Tyler Perry Dreamers Collective: https://tylerperrystudiosdreamcollective.com/
Veterans Writers Project: https://www.wgfoundation.org/programs/the-veterans-writing-project
Rideback Rise: https://www.ridebackrise.org/

Key Figures mentioned:
Paul Redford, Writer https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0714864/
Mary Lou Belli, Director https://www.amazon.com/Directors-Tell-Story-Bethany-Rooney/dp/1138948470

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Filmmaking Journey
01:04 Early Inspirations and Filmmaking Beginnings
09:20 The Evolution of Perspective in Filmmaking
17:36 Development Programs and their Impact
25:20 The Importance of Community and Mentorship
30:12 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

Email us: [email protected] 

Credits:

HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: 
https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

In today's class, our hosts chat with Danny Chandia, local Las Vegas filmmaker, writer and director of MARGARET THE BRAVE and co-founder of Desert Cactus Films. They delve into Chandia's complex feelings about Las Vegas and presenting his upcoming project as a "Love letter to Las Vegas" that explores the local culture and community beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Danny Chandia and MARGARET THE BRAVE
01:03 Danny's Journey into Filmmaking
05:29 The Creative Process Behind MTB
10:54 Exploring Themes of Family and Personal Experience
19:21 The Festival Circuit and Future Projects

Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

Email us: [email protected] 

Credits:

HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: 
https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

To celebrate the 100th year anniversary of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (1925), and to get into the Halloween season spirit, our hosts spent this class session discussing several iterations of the Phantom of the Opera.

They discuss the symbolism of masks, revenge, and more in this episode in thanks to our partner movie house The Beverly Theater!

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to The Phantom of the Opera
3:13 Comparing Phantom Adaptations
6:17 The Evolution of the Phantom's Character
10:05 Acting in Silent Films vs. Modern Adaptations
11:30 The Role of Music in Storytelling
14:05 The Reveal Scene: Impact and Interpretation
18:14 The Symbolism of Masks and Identity
23:03 The Midpoint and Stakes in the Story
26:00 Revenge and Consequences in Different Versions
29:31 Final Thoughts

Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

Email us: [email protected] 

Credits:

HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: 
https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome back to The Film Dept. Pencils up everyone!

In this class, we delve into Luca Guadagnino's film AFTER THE HUNT, exploring its themes of truth, character complexity, and the impact of its cinematography and music.

Our hosts, alongside Professor Mona Nahm, discuss the film's ambiguity and how it reflects modern cultural issues, encouraging listeners to engage in discussions about personal truths and perspectives.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Film Department Podcast
01:10 Spoiler-Free Review of 'After the Hunt'
02:25 Comparing 'After the Hunt' and 'Challengers'
04:33 Character Complexity and Ambiguity
06:47 Exploring Personal Truths in the Film
09:05 The Role of Music and Sound Design
11:24 Visual Storytelling and Cinematic Techniques
13:38 Themes of Truth and Deception
16:26 Philosophical Reflections and Takeaways
19:34 Character Analysis and Performance Highlights
22:26 The Significance of the Apartment's Design
26:42 The Title's Meaning and Implications

Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

Email us: [email protected] 

Credits:

HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome to TFD 301 - Film Podcasts for Everyone. Class is now in session!

In this class our new hosts Lex, Matthew and Robby interview UNLV Film alum Edwin Ramirez ('24) whose 48 Hour Film Project - Las Vegas film THERE'S SOMETHING IN THE WATER won First Place: Best Film of 2025.

Edwin shares his insider's knowledge for shooting a successful 48 Hour competition project as UNLV Film enters its own 48 this weekend (October 10-12)

Takeaways
Preparation is key for a successful 48-hour film.
Finding unique locations can enhance production value.
Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process.
A well-written script is crucial, even in a short timeframe.
Collaboration with a trusted crew can improve the final product.
Editing during filming can save time and improve quality.
Incorporating prompts creatively can enhance storytelling.
Maintaining a positive atmosphere on set is essential.
Feeding the crew is important for morale and productivity.
Having fun is the ultimate goal of the 48-hour challenge.

Summary
In this engaging conversation, Edwin Ramirez shares his experiences and insights from participating in the 48-hour film festival. He discusses the importance of preparation, the writing process, and the challenges faced during filming. Edwin emphasizes the significance of collaboration with a trusted crew and the need for a well-written script, even in a short timeframe. He also highlights the themes and messages in his award-winning film, 'There's Something in the Water,' and offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers.

Sound bites
"Preparation is key for a successful 48-hour film."
"Finding unique locations can enhance production value."
"Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup
01:06 Edwin's Background and 48-Hour Film Experience
05:48 Preparation for the 48-Hour Film Challenge
10:31 Writing and Shooting Process
15:17 Catering and Crew Management
19:56 Technical Aspects and Visuals of the Film
24:43 Themes and Messages in the Film
29:46 The Creative Process: Embracing Procrastination
30:21 Advice for the UNLV 48: Preparation and Casting
31:12 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey
31:28 Looking Forward: Anticipation for Future Projects
32:17 Podcast Structure: Setting the Stage for Future Episodes
34:31 Reflections on the Conversation: Insights and Takeaways
38:48 Final Thoughts: Wrapping Up the Episode


Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts

Credits:

Email us: [email protected] 

HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand 

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. 

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

In a special pre-season episode of TFD, we're joined by one of last season's co-hosts, Nic Patrick and returning collaborator David Rosen of Piecing it Together Podcast
for a review of THE LONG WALK, written by J.T. Mollner and Directed by Francis Lawrence.

Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts

Credits:

Email us: [email protected] 

HOSTS - Nic Patrick, David Rosen

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand 

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: substack.com/thefilmdeptpodcast 

This semester, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. 

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome to the final (final) episode of Season 2 of The Film Dept. Podcast! 

This episode of The Film Dept. Podcast, Nic Parks is joined by Season 1 host Davey Parks on the Cote d'Azure for a review of their favorite films from 2025 Festival de Cannes!

Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts

Credits:

Email us: [email protected] 

HOSTS - Nic Patrick, Davey Parks

Production Sound Mixer - Sydney Maier

Co-Producer/Editor - Lilly Richie

Assistant Editor - Byron Schnell Davis

Production Coordinator - Kay Walgate

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand 

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: substack.com/thefilmdeptpodcast 

This semester, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. 

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome to Season 2 of The Film Dept. Podcast! We've got a new crew reviewing the latest films screening at The Beverly in downtown Las Vegas... and beyond.

This episode of The Film Dept. Podcast, we interview Las Vegas filmmaker Adam Kilbourn on his latest feature, the high octane action feature proudly produced, filmed, and cast in Las Vegas, ACTION! ACTION! premiering Friday, April 25 at 7p at Circa's Stadium Swim cinema. In addition to Adam being an alum of UNLV Film, this project is notable as also starring our late great professor of acting, Clarence Gilyard, in his final screen performance.

For more on the film: actionactionmovie.com

For more on Adam's production company: Black Raven Films


Credits:

Email us: [email protected] 

HOSTS - Nic Patrick, Ani Rogy, L Villareal Production

Sound Mixer - Sydney Maier

Co-Producer/Editor - Lilly Richie

Assistant Editor - Byron Schnell Davis

Production Coordinator - Kay Walgate

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand 

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: substack.com/thefilmdeptpodcast 

This semester, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. 

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome to Season 2 of The Film Dept. Podcast! We've got a new crew reviewing the latest films screening at The Beverly in downtown Las Vegas... and beyond.

This episode of The Film Dept. Podcast, we interview film producer Douglas Haines about his new feature SATURN, premiering at the upcoming Indie Vegas Film Festival, Sunday, April 27, 7:30p at The Cannery Hotel and Casino's Galaxy Theatres. Douglas will be in attendance at the screening. For tickets and more information: Indie Vegas Film Festival.

Credits:

Email us: [email protected] 

HOSTS - Nic Patrick, Ani Rogy, L Villareal Production

Sound Mixer - Sydney Maier

Co-Producer/Editor - Lilly Richie

Assistant Editor - Byron Schnell Davis

Production Coordinator - Kay Walgate

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand 

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: substack.com/thefilmdeptpodcast 

This semester, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. 

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

Welcome to Season 2 of The Film Dept. Podcast! We've got a new crew reviewing the latest films screening at The Beverly in downtown Las Vegas... and beyond.

This episode of The Film Dept. Podcast marks our very first crossover with Las Vegas's own Piecing It Together podcast to discuss NEWLYWEEDS (2013) directed by Shaka King and screened in front of a live audience at our partner cinema, The Beverly Theater. Piecing It's ever-curious host David Rosen joins Nic, Ani and L in front of a live audience on a sticky exploration of Shaka King's hilarious and touching first feature before going on to co-write and direct JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH (2021). This live podcast followed a Q&A with King and Beverly programmer Mike Plante. An excerpt from that interview is featured in this episode. 

Credits:

Email us: [email protected] 

HOSTS - Nic Patrick, Ani Rogy, L Villareal Production

Sound Mixer - Sydney Maier

Co-Producer/Editor - Lilly Richie

Assistant Editor - Byron Schnell Davis

Production Coordinator - Kay Walgate

Director of Photography - Chris Chael
Camera Assistants - Edwin Ramirez and Angelo Masangkay

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand 

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: substack.com/thefilmdeptpodcast 

This semester, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. 

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.