The MAKE IT Podcast

Hello, Hello! 

 

In this episode of The Make It Podcast Chris & Nick recapped 2023 and looked ahead to 2024. They reflected on their favorite films of the year, including BlackBerry and American Symphony, and the best guests of the year including Linda Nelson (and more). They also analyzed the implications of the New York Times lawsuit against OpenAI for copyright infringement and how it could change the industry. 

 

They also... 

 

• Debate over musical styles of 90s R&B groups
• Consideration of how to give and receive notes to improve as filmmakers
• Importance of maintaining one's artistic voice when receiving feedback
• Exploration of themes in films like Leave the World Behind produced by the Obamas
• A brand new 'Things We Should Know.'

 

Enjoy! 

 

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Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel. Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.bonsai.film/subscribe.

 

The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

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Hello, Hello!

 

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! Chris provides a short update on episodes and content for this month and a hint at 2024.

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry. We provide a platform for filmmakers to provide advice, lessons learned, personal reflections, and insights through our _Filmmaker Conversations_, _Mistakes in the Making_, _Industry Insights_, _Indie Talks_, and _Film Investment Series_ playlists. We are the go-to film podcast for independent creatives!

 

#film #interview #podcast

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Hello, Hello! 

 

In this episode of the MAKE IT Podcast we are joined by Brian Owens, Artistic Director Calgary International Film Festival. He provides his film festival tips, advice, and insights on the MAKE IT podcast. Brian has been at the helm of some of North America's top film festivals, helping launch countless careers along the way.

In this interview, Brian shares stories from his unlikely path from small town kid to festival kingpin, offering invaluable advice to aspiring programmers and filmmakers. He also pulls back the curtain on what it takes to run major festivals while maintaining a passion for cinema, treating listeners to insightful perspectives on curation and what makes certain films resonate.

 

*Originally released September 13, 2022*

 

Follow Brian https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-owens-06648577

 

Calgary International Film Festival https://www.ciffcalgary.ca/

 

• Introduction. (0:00)
• Handling film festivals during COVID-19 pandemic. (1:11)
• Movies, childhood memories, and film appreciation. (6:22)
• Film festival creation and growth. (12:02)
• Filmmaking production skills and sound quality. (19:47)
• Film festival growth and local talent. (23:36)
• Film programming and fostering a film community. (28:57)
• Film grants and industry support in Canada vs. U.S. (34:44)
• Film industry, inclusivity, and career advice. (40:34)
• Creativity and inspiration. (49:37)
• Starting a film festival with a focus on marketing and networking. (54:39)
• Filmmaking and storytelling insights. (1:00:23)
• Creativity and career goals. (1:05:50)
• Networking and Al Gore's involvement in a documentary. (1:10:19)

 

Questions answered in this conversation:

 

• What are the minimum production skills festivals look for when accepting a film?
• How does grant funding differ between Canada and the US? - How do you start your own film festival?
•  When a film is close to being good or great but not quite, what is it typically missing?
• Who are some of the creatives Brian most admires and wants to emulate from a technical or skill standpoint? 

 

*How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:*

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel. Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.bonsai.film/subscribe.

 

The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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Hello, Hello! 

 

In this episode of the MAKE IT Podcast we are joined by Brian Owens, Artistic Director Calgary International Film Festival. He provides his film festival tips, advice, and insights on the MAKE IT podcast. Brian has been at the helm of some of North America's top film festivals, helping launch countless careers along the way.

In this interview, Brian shares stories from his unlikely path from small town kid to festival kingpin, offering invaluable advice to aspiring programmers and filmmakers. He also pulls back the curtain on what it takes to run major festivals while maintaining a passion for cinema, treating listeners to insightful perspectives on curation and what makes certain films resonate.

 

*Originally released September 13, 2022*

 

Follow Brian https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-owens-06648577

 

Calgary International Film Festival https://www.ciffcalgary.ca/

 

• Introduction. (0:00)
• Handling film festivals during COVID-19 pandemic. (1:11)
• Movies, childhood memories, and film appreciation. (6:22)
• Film festival creation and growth. (12:02)
• Filmmaking production skills and sound quality. (19:47)
• Film festival growth and local talent. (23:36)
• Film programming and fostering a film community. (28:57)
• Film grants and industry support in Canada vs. U.S. (34:44)
• Film industry, inclusivity, and career advice. (40:34)
• Creativity and inspiration. (49:37)
• Starting a film festival with a focus on marketing and networking. (54:39)
• Filmmaking and storytelling insights. (1:00:23)
• Creativity and career goals. (1:05:50)
• Networking and Al Gore's involvement in a documentary. (1:10:19)

 

Questions answered in this conversation:

 

• What are the minimum production skills festivals look for when accepting a film?
• How does grant funding differ between Canada and the US? - How do you start your own film festival?
•  When a film is close to being good or great but not quite, what is it typically missing?
• Who are some of the creatives Brian most admires and wants to emulate from a technical or skill standpoint? 

 

*How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:*

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel. Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.bonsai.film/subscribe.

 

The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Hello, Hello! 

 

In this episode of the Make It Podcast, independent filmmaker Frank Monteleone joins Chris and Nick to talk about his company, Full Armor Films, his career, and the film industry in New Orleans and beyond.

 

We also talk about:

 

- Frank discusses starting Full Armor Films in New Orleans and how the city's film tax incentives have helped grow the local industry.
- The group talks about acting techniques, pitching projects to studios vs. independently, and how recent strikes have impacted the business. 
- Frank shares his experience getting an exception during the WGA strike to continue production.
- Acting exercises like being assigned random characters at parties are discussed as ways to improve skills.
- And a brand new Things You Should Know — inspired by Frank! 

 

 

Enjoy!

 

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Hello, Hello! 

 

In this edition of the MAKE IT Podcast, Chris and Nick discuss artist Jelly Roll's inspirational acceptance speech for Best New Artist at the CMA Awards. They contemplate the ability to pivot genres throughout a career, using Darius Rucker's transition from rock to country, the SAG Strike is over (right?), Coyote Vs. Acme drama, and an all-new Things We Should Know and Culture Check. 

 

We also talk about:

 

• Chris shares the secret of why his hair and skin glisten
• Jelly Roll’s Hip-Hop career before pivoting to Country
• SAG-AFTRA Strike - Did the actors win? 
• Why studios aren’t concerned with taking a budget loss when shelving a film
• Advocating understanding of complex issues before making judgments

 

Enjoy!

 

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.bonsai.film/subscribe.

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.bonsai.film/subscribe.

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Hello, Hello! 

 

This week on The Make It Podcast, Chris and Nick discuss the success of Five Nights at Freddy's and how it was able to capitalize on existing IP in a way that worked. They also analyze Taylor Swift's deal with AMC to distribute her concert film and whether others can replicate her success. Nick provides a culture check on a controversy involving the head of HBO being caught creating fake X (formerly Twitter) accounts to troll critics of its content.

 

We also talk about:

• Debate around whether people can "cash in" on Taylor Swift's lottery ticket deal or if her level of fame and experience is unique.
• Consideration of whether Troll behavior is commonplace or if the HBO executive was wrong to attempt to manipulate feedback.
• Comments on the importance of artists receiving genuine criticism to improve their work.

 

Enjoy!

 

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Hello, Hello! 

 

In this edition of Indie Talk, Chris is joined by Director Roxana Baldovin. She discusses her career journey from growing up with an immigrant background in Brooklyn to directing music videos for major artists. Roxana also shares insights on navigating the unpredictable music video industry, building her skills as a director, and her transition into narrative filmmaking.

 

We also talk about:

• Growing up immersed in multiple cultures in Brooklyn due to her family's immigrant backgrounds
• Getting her start directing by cold-pitching directly to artists at concerts and persevering until landing early opportunities
• 
  Why directing alone on a major music video project for the first time was challenging but helped Roxana fully own her role as director
• Navigating the music video industry and the need to have thick skin due to high rejection rates and uncertainty about whether projects will even get made
• Why commercial work involves more structure, resources, and money compared to music videos 
• Building a core team of trusted collaborators is important while also allowing flexibility for different project needs
• Learning from mistakes and gaining experience over thousands of hours of work builds directing confidence and skills
• Staying true to your artistic vision while also listening to and incorporating others' perspectives is key to success in the film industry

 

Enjoy!

 

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Hello, Hello! 

 

In this edition of Indie Talk, Chris and Nick discuss their experiences at the recent Nashville Film Festival and fielding more feedback from filmmakers than in previous years. They debate filmmakers' perspectives on wanting unbiased consideration from festivals versus wanting special treatment if not accepted. Chris aims to be a voice for independent filmmakers in their community to provide constructive feedback to festival organizers.

 

Topics Include:

 

• Chris actively solicited feedback from festival attendees on their experience.
• Why Chris’ recent 48 Hour Film Project received nominations but no technical awards 
• Debate on filmmakers wanting unbiased judging vs. bias/special treatment
• Value of festival acceptance alone vs. audience reaction
• Chris' goal is to provide a way for filmmakers to give feedback to improve the festival
• Chris shares more people came to him for feedback and questions as Vice President of the Board of the Nashville Film Festival
• They discuss balancing meritocracy with access to resources for some filmmakers
• Producer Papa Bear tests Chris and Nick’s Physics (and film) knowledge with his latest Things We Should Know

 

Enjoy!

 

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Hello, Hello! 

 

In this edition of Indie Talk, we have a conversation with the President of QYOU Media, Inc., Glenn Ginsburg. Glenn provided valuable insights into influencer marketing strategies for major studios and independent films. He outlined how his company executes large-scale social media campaigns for studios using top creators to drive awareness and engagement. The conversation offered filmmakers valuable tips for crafting grassroots marketing approaches and understanding how major studios optimize influencer campaigns at massive scales.

 

Topics Include:

 

• Discussion of recent WGA strike ending and deal being reached between writers and studios
• Impact the strike had on studios' ability to market and release new films 
• Debate around whether indie films/filmmakers truly benefited from "support indie" rhetoric during negotiations as claimed
• Overview of Q Media's work focusing on large-scale social media campaigns for studios using influencer marketing
• Differences in marketing approaches needed for indie films with smaller budgets versus studio CPM models
• Potential for indie cinema to utilize influencer marketing by finding relevant influencers and paying flat fees rather than CPM metrics 
• Importance for indies of growing organic audiences online through engaged communities
• Insights into how influencer marketing works at scale for studios through creators and turning that content into ad campaigns

 

Enjoy!

 

How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

 

Subscribe to the MAKE IT YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the MAKE IT Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.bonsai.film/subscribe.

 

More About Glenn

 

GLENN GINSBURG is the President of QYOU Media, Inc., an award-winning media and marketing agency whose client portfolio includes Universal Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Sony Pictures, DreamWorks, Warner Brothers, and other leading entertainment companies, as well as Activision, Hyundai, Nerf, MGA and more. Under Ginsburg's leadership, QYOU Media has also become the foremost authority on brand engagement on the popular short-form entertainment platform TikTok. Ginsburg joined QYOU as an SVP in 2015 and has grown the company to over 40.

‍
Ginsburg's oversight includes QYOU's Influencer and brand partnerships, content development, and social channel management. In addition, he supervises building new partnerships with clients, leading Influencers, talent managers, and agencies.

‍
Before joining QYOU, Ginsburg worked with top-tier brands such as Disney, Marvel, and Universal, among others, to help them harness the power of social media stars and develop leading Influencer marketing campaigns that generate buzz online. Previously with Alloy Media + Marketing, he helped structure, implement, and execute Alloy Digital's YouTube go-to-market sales strategy. He worked across cross-functional teams, including sales, integrated marketing, planning, pricing, ad operations, social media, PR, research, and talent.

‍
Ginsburg's extensive background in digital, social, and convergence media and branded entertainment also includes MTV Networks, where, as a VP for several years, he initiated, structured, and developed Comedy Central's Interactive Sales business. His career also includes work with prestigious entertainment brands like Walt Disney, USA Networks, and Marvel Entertainment.

‍
A dedicated "girl dad," Ginsburg recently joined his daughter for a Taylor Swift concert and takes pride in rooting her on at tennis matches. He earned his bachelor's degree from Boston University and resides in Los Angeles.

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