From Viral YouTube Shorts To A Multi-Million Dollar Feature Debut With Felipe Vargas
In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Felipe Vargas - whose viral horror short films helped him land his feature film debut Rosario.Throughout our discussion, we explore Felipe’s journey from DIY shorts to large scale feature productions and lessons learned along the way. Topics covered include: How Felipe's childhood passion for horror and folklore shaped his filmmaking styleThe success of his short films, including Milk Teeth which garnered 15 million views on YouTubeThe realities of getting representation and what comes afterHow his feature film Rosario came together after developing relationships with producersShooting across two countries (New York and Colombia) on a sub-$10 million budgetThe importance of being consistently productive and self-generative as a filmmakerUsing test screenings effectively and the value of planning for pickup shotsThe unique character-first approach Felipe uses to break down scripts and scenesLinks from the show:Felipe Vargas - InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.
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How To Make A $7K Feature Film With a Crew of 3: An Interview With Filmmaker Joe Burke
In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Joe Burke to discuss his incredible journey making the feature film Burt for just $7,000. Executive produced by David Gordon Green, the film follows a street musician with Parkinson's disease who discovers he has a son.Throughout our conversation, we explore Joe's innovative approach to micro-budget filmmaking, including how he infused real-life relationships into the narrative. Topics covered include: How Joe cast his non-actor subjects in their first ever film rolesShooting an entire feature in 7 days with just a 3-person crewThe strategic use of black & white cinematography to elevate production valueCreating compelling narrative films without traditional scriptsNavigating 28 festival rejections before winning Best Picture awardsSelf-distributing via theatrical screenings while building community partnershipsLinks from the show:Burt The Movie - WebsiteJoe Burke - Instagram (@joeburkfilm)Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.
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55:29
Shooting An 8 Day Feature Film Using "Structured Improv" With Director Christopher Folkens
In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Christopher Folkens to discuss his debut feature film The Catalyst - a psychological thriller that was produced in just 8 shooting days.Throughout our discussion, we explore the unconventional production methods Christopher employed, including structured improvisation and a non-traditional shooting schedule.Topics covered include:Why Christopher chose to embrace structured improvisation with actorsHow they filmed nearly half the movie in a single nightCompleting a feature film in just 8 total shooting daysThe evolution from a 12-person proof of concept to a 7-person final castUsing obstacles as opportunities in low-budget productionThe benefits of having an editing background as a directorFinding the balance between having a plan and remaining flexible on setLinks from the show:Christopher Folkens - InstagramThe Catalyst Movie - InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.
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54:27
Making A Linklater-Style Feature Film Over 2 Years With Filmmaker Clinton Cornwell
In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Clinton Cornwell to discuss his feature film 12 Months, which he shot over the course of two years (and 60 shooting days) in a style inspired by Richard Linklater's Boyhood.Throughout our conversation, we dive deep into Clinton's unique production approach and creative process. Topics covered include: Creating an improvised relationship drama shot over real timeWorking with a minimal crew (often just 3 people) across 60 shooting daysThe benefits and challenges of spreading production over two yearsFinding actors comfortable with improvisation and maintaining their commitmentBalancing structure and spontaneity in an improvised filmManaging 200+ hours of footage during post-productionThe advantages of being a "jack of all trades" filmmakerLinks from the show: 12 Months FilmClinton Cornwell - InstagramClinton Cornwell - Letterboxd Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday
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1:05:43
Making 4 Features & Building a Sustainable Indie Film Model With Nick Psinakis
In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Nick Psinakis to discuss his journey creating four feature films with creative partner Kevin Ignatius and how they've developed a sustainable model for indie filmmaking.Throughout our conversation, we explore their evolution from DIY beginnings to community-supported productions, with special emphasis on how they've maintained high production value on micro-budgets. Topics covered include:Their progression from a $65K genre film to their newest feature, "Valley View Motel"Building strong community support in small-town Pennsylvania as a production baseMaximizing efficiency with minimal crew and strategic location planningCreative approaches to chronological shooting and managing weather variablesNavigating the ever-changing sales and distribution landscapeThe delicate balance between artistic integrity and commercial viabilityTheir post-production workflow and co-directing dynamicLinks from the show: 418 Films - Instagram Cheat - Watch on Amazon Prime Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.
Each week, filmmaker Noam Kroll shares valuable insight into the world of micro-budget filmmaking, geared towards true DIY filmmakers looking to get out there and create their own films.
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