In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman tackle breaking news, unpacking President Trump’s proposed 100% tariff on foreign-made films and what it could mean for the future of Hollywood. Then, GG takes us to the heart of indie filmmaking with a vibrant live conversation from Cinema Columbus, where filmmakers Michael Polk, Sam Dunning, and Kelsey Lea Jones share war stories, festival lessons, and the power of regional cinema in a shifting industry.

In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and guests discuss...

The implications of Trump’s proposed 100% tariff on foreign film and TV productions

How international tax incentives affect where Hollywood makes movies

The economic and cultural risks of isolating American film audiences

The live indie filmmaking experience from Cinema Columbus

The production and festival journeys of “Canoe Dig It” and “Say As I Say”

Creative strategies for self-distribution and building regional audiences

How unexpected moments during indie shoots add authenticity and charm

Memorable Quotes:

"You don't need to jail artists to silence them. You just make their work impossible to afford."

"Let’s solve this problem with a real solution and not just with bluster."

"If you can't give indie filmmakers money, the most valuable other thing you can do is to rate and review our movies."

"We just don't want it to disappear… even if we don't make a dime."

Guests:

Michael Polk

Sam Dunning

Kelsey Lea Jones

Resources:

Canoe Dig it?

Say As I Say

No Film School: What Do Studio Heads Have to Say About The Hollywood Tariffs?

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