Vonti Talks with Filmmakers

Vonti Talks with Filmmakers Podcast wraps up our discussion with Acclaimed Cinematographer Kate Phelan. Her work has lit up screens at Sundance, Berlin, and SXSW. With over a decade of experience in the electric department before stepping behind the camera, Kate brings unique technical mastery to her craft, having shot for every major network from NBC to MTV. Now based in New York with her family, she continues to push creative boundaries in both indie films and mainstream television.

Whether you're a film enthusiast or working filmmaker, you won't want to miss these invaluable insights from one of the industry's most versatile visual artists. Don't forget to catch up on prior episodes and learn more about us. 

Connect with us at www.vontipictures.com Stay updated with our podcast schedule at: www.filmconvopodcast

Add us on social:www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/

Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#SpotifyPodcast #YouTubeFilmmaking #ApplePodcasts #AmazonMusic #GooglePodcasts #FilmmakingTips #CinematographyTips #FilmIndustry #VisualStorytelling #PodcastsWorthListening #NewPodcastEpisode #FilmEducation #LearnFilmmaking #BehindTheScenes #FilmCommunity

Thank you for joining us for a masterclass in visual storytelling with Kate Phelan, an acclaimed cinematographer whose work has lit up screens at Sundance, Berlin, and SXSW. With over a decade of experience in the electric department before stepping behind the camera, Kate brings unique technical mastery to her craft, having shot for every major network from NBC to MTV. Now based in New York with her family, she continues to push creative boundaries in both indie films and mainstream television.

In this eye-opening episode, Kate breaks down the intricate art of crafting unforgettable images and shares her philosophy on using light to enhance storytelling. Whether you're a film enthusiast or working filmmaker, you won't want to miss these invaluable insights from one of the industry's most versatile visual artists.

Connect with us at www.vontipictures.com Stay updated with our podcast schedule at: www.filmconvopodcast

Add us on social:www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/

Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#SpotifyPodcast #YouTubeFilmmaking #ApplePodcasts #AmazonMusic #GooglePodcasts #FilmmakingTips #CinematographyTips #FilmIndustry #VisualStorytelling #PodcastsWorthListening #NewPodcastEpisode #FilmEducation #LearnFilmmaking #BehindTheScenes #FilmCommunity

Welcome Back! Here is Part 2 of our discussion with Media Innovator James M. Russell who is laser focused on upgrading African TV and Film. He is a seasoned film and TV producer, writer, and entrepreneur, driving innovative projects that captivate global audiences. As the Managing Partner of Desert Dunes Film Studios in Namibia, James is building Africa’s largest motion picture studio, set to launch in January 2026. This groundbreaking facility will include state-of-the-art sound stages, post-production and animation studios, and community-focused spaces like classrooms, a daycare, and a credit union. He recently optioned Blood Has a Voice by forensic pathologist Hestelle van Staden, adding to his growing slate of impactful stories.

Through MANKS Motion Picture Studios Inc., James is developing a dynamic range of films, including the Amsterdam-set thriller Happy Father’s Day, the magical drama The Reluctant Witch, and the family comedy Nurse Christy Saves Christmas. With multiple award-winning scripts and projects celebrated at festivals like Cannes and Toronto, James continues to craft compelling narratives while revolutionizing the African film industry.

#podcastrecommendation #podcaststudio #VontiTalksWithFilmmakers #blackpeople #canada #nollywood #filmmaking #cinematography #screenwriter #hollywoodstories #indiefilm #tvproduction #filmproducer #shortsviral #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #podcastvideo #listennow #subscribenow #newepisode #behindthescenes #trendingnow #viralcontent #podcastclips #viralpodcast #movies #trailers #podcast #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastcommunity #podcaster #filmmaker #televison #Africa

We welcome to the show Innovator James M. Russell who is laser focused on upgrading African TV and Film. He is a seasoned film and TV producer, writer, and entrepreneur, driving innovative projects that captivate global audiences. As the Managing Partner of Desert Dunes Film Studios in Namibia, James is building Africa’s largest motion picture studio, set to launch in January 2026. This groundbreaking facility will include state-of-the-art sound stages, post-production and animation studios, and community-focused spaces like classrooms, a daycare, and a credit union. He recently optioned Blood Has a Voice by forensic pathologist Hestelle van Staden, adding to his growing slate of impactful stories.

Through MANKS Motion Picture Studios Inc., James is developing a dynamic range of films, including the Amsterdam-set thriller Happy Father’s Day, the magical drama The Reluctant Witch, and the family comedy Nurse Christy Saves Christmas. With multiple award-winning scripts and projects celebrated at festivals like Cannes and Toronto, James continues to craft compelling narratives while revolutionizing the African film industry.

www.filmconvopodcast.com Connect with us on https://www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/ Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#podcastrecommendation #podcaststudio #VontiTalksWithFilmmakers #filmmaking #cinematography #screenwriter #hollywoodstories #indiefilm #tvproduction #filmproducer #shortsviral #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #podcastvideo #listennow #subscribenow #newepisode #behindthescenes #trendingnow #viralcontent #podcastclips #viralpodcast #movies #trailers #podcast #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastcommunity #podcaster #filmmaker #televison

Welcome Back! Here is our final chapter with Army Veteran Dominic who is an accomplished American Film Director and Screenwriter. He adeptly navigates various genres, from heart-pounding action to spine-chilling horror. With an impressive repertoire of short films, Dominic's latest project "Witnessed," showcases his talent as a writer, producer, editor, and director. Originally from New Jersey and a dedicated army veteran, Dominic pursued his filmmaking dreams at Full Sail University, where he graduated with honors and a Creative Writing Master of Fine Arts degree. Now based in Atlanta, Georgia, Dominic continues to push the boundaries of his craft. Stay updated with our podcast schedule at:

www.filmconvopodcast.com Connect with us on https://www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/ Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#podcastrecommendation #podcaststudio #VontiTalksWithFilmmakers #filmmaking #director #cinematography #screenwriter #hollywoodstories #indiefilm #tvproduction #filmproducer #oscars #BehindTheScenes #shortsviral #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #youtubepodcast #podcastvideo #listennow #subscribenow #newepisode #behindthescenes #trendingnow #viralcontent #podcastclips #viralpodcast #gladiator2 #nostalgia #robertdowneyjr #marvelstudios #movies #trailers #johnwick #avengers #marvel #horror #podcast #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastcommunity #podcaster #filmmaker #televison #veteran #army

Our next episode highlights Army Veteran Dominic who is an accomplished American Film Director and Screenwriter. He adeptly navigates various genres, from heart-pounding action to spine-chilling horror. With an impressive repertoire of short films, Dominic's latest project "Witnessed," showcases his talent as a writer, producer, editor, and director. Originally from New Jersey and a dedicated army veteran, Dominic pursued his filmmaking dreams at Full Sail University, where he graduated with honors and a Creative Writing Master of Fine Arts degree. Now based in Atlanta, Georgia, Dominic continues to push the boundaries of his craft. Stay updated with our podcast schedule at:

www.filmconvopodcast.com Connect with us on https://www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/ Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#podcastrecommendation #podcaststudio #VontiTalksWithFilmmakers #filmmaking #director #cinematography #screenwriter #hollywoodstories #indiefilm #tvproduction #filmproducer #oscars #BehindTheScenes #shortsviral #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #youtubepodcast #podcastvideo #listennow #subscribenow #newepisode #behindthescenes #trendingnow #viralcontent #podcastclips #viralpodcast #gladiator2 #nostalgia #robertdowneyjr #marvelstudios #movies #trailers #johnwick #avengers #marvel #horror #podcast #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastcommunity #podcaster #filmmaker #televison #veteran #army

Part 2 of our Discussion with Steve Longi begins now! Step behind the scenes of #Hollywood with Vonti Talks w/ Filmmakers! Vonti McRae sits down with Oscar-winning producer Steve Longi, the mastermind behind Hacksaw Ridge. With over 20 years in the industry, Longi has collaborated with legendary stars like Robert Downey Jr., Sigourney Weaver, and Ray Liotta. From producing the Emmy-nominated Prayers for Bobby to directing Netflix’s Willie Barcena: The Truth Hurts, Longi shares his journey through some of the industry’s most iconic projects. This episode uncovers Longi’s process for developing over 100 film and TV projects, including adapting musicals like Zombie Prom and tackling thought-provoking stories like The Interrupted Journey. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a movie buff, Steve Longi’s insights will inspire and inform. Tune in to explore the art of storytelling with one of Hollywood’s finest!

Stay updated with our podcast schedule at: www.filmconvopodcast.com

Connect with us on https://www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/

Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#VontiTalksWithFilmmakers #SteveLongi #HacksawRidge #filmmaking #hollywoodstories #indiefilm #tvproduction #filmproducer #oscars #BehindTheScenes #shortsviral #youtube #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #youtubepodcast #podcastvideo #listennow #subscribenow #newepisode #behindthescenes #trendingnow #viralcontent #podcastclips #viralpodcast #gladiator2 #nostalgia #robertdowneyjr #marvelstudios #movies #trailers #johnwick #avengers #marvel #horror #podcast #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastcommunity #podcaster #filmmaker #televison

Step behind the scenes of #Hollywood with Vonti Talks w/ Filmmakers! Vonti McRae sits down with Oscar-winning producer Steve Longi, the mastermind behind Hacksaw Ridge. With over 20 years in the industry, Longi has collaborated with legendary stars like Robert Downey Jr., Sigourney Weaver, and Ray Liotta. From producing the Emmy-nominated Prayers for Bobby to directing Netflix’s Willie Barcena: The Truth Hurts, Longi shares his journey through some of the industry’s most iconic projects. This episode uncovers Longi’s process for developing over 100 film and TV projects, including adapting musicals like Zombie Prom and tackling thought-provoking stories like The Interrupted Journey. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a movie buff, Steve Longi’s insights will inspire and inform. Tune in to explore the art of storytelling with one of Hollywood’s finest!

Stay updated with our podcast schedule at: www.filmconvopodcast.com

Connect with us on https://www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/

Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#VontiTalksWithFilmmakers #SteveLongi #HacksawRidge #filmmaking #hollywoodstories #indiefilm #tvproduction #filmproducer #oscars #BehindTheScenes #shortsviral #youtube #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #youtubepodcast #podcastvideo #listennow #subscribenow #newepisode #behindthescenes #trendingnow #viralcontent #podcastclips #viralpodcast #gladiator2 #nostalgia #robertdowneyjr #marvelstudios #movies #trailers #johnwick #avengers #marvel #horror #podcast #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastcommunity #podcaster #filmmaker #televison

Episode 2 continues our sit down with acclaimed TV Director Mike Spiller - a fellow Brooklynite who has won an #Emmy and DGA award for his work on hit shows like Modern Family, Scrubs, New Girl and The Mindy Project. We delve into more of a Hollywood geniuses’ career. Mike is such a down to earth humble man who is passionate about filmmaking. Don't miss this opportunity to be mentored by one of the industry's Top directors, straight from his roots in #brooklyn to the bright lights of #Hollywood. Stay updated with our podcast schedule at: www.filmconvopodcast.com Connect with us on https://www.instagram.com/vonti_pictures/ Reach out to our host, Vonti McRae, on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vonti-mcrae-3b71281 or email us: [email protected] for episode inquiries.

#filmindustry #behindthescenes #cinematicjourney #production #keygrip #cameralighting #sony #podcastguest #filmindustry #filmmakingpodcast #warnerbros #film #television #vontitalks #minorityownedbusiness #hollywoodinsights ##studiojobs #grip #entertainment #entertainmentcareers #filmindustryinsider #education #inspiration #entertainmentnews #media #TVandFilmCreator #podcasts #TVDirector #EmmyWinner #ModernFamily #MindyProject #BrooklynCreatives #scrubs

We are back! Season 2 is finally here. Join us as we sit down with acclaimed TV director Mike Spiller - a fellow Brooklynite who has won an Emmy and DGA award for his work on hit shows like Modern Family, Scrubs, New Girl and The Mindy Project.

In this episode, Mike takes us into his world of bringing some of television's most beloved comedies to life. We'll discuss his early career as a cinematographer, his transition to directing, and the keys to crafting the perfect comedic tone and performance.

Plus, Mike shares insights on working with talented ensembles, collaborating with showrunners, and developing new projects - all while balancing the role of a loving husband and father.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the industry's top directors, straight from his roots in Brooklyn to the bright lights of Hollywood.

#TVDirector #EmmyWinner #ModernFamily #MindyProject #BrooklynCreatives