The Filmmakers Podcast

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• Business of Film: The New Rules of Film Financing: AI, Gen Z, and Getting Your Movie Made | What we learnt from Cannes and What Movie Distributors Actually Want! 01.06.2026 1ч 51мин

  Filmmakers! Welcome back to a very special Business of Film edition of The Filmmakers Podcast. Today, we are cutting through the absolute nonsense and delivering a survival guide for how to fund, produce, and sell an independent film in the current market. Host Giles Alderson is joined by an expert powerhouse panel: film industry data analyst Stephen Follows, director-producer and AI tech expert Hilary Shakespeare, independent director-producer Dom Lenoir, and VP of Distribution at Quantify Sales, Dimo Alexandrov. Together, they break down the exact numbers of what sold, why horror and elevated genre remain king, the catastrophic mistakes indie producers are making on the Croisette, and the real impact of AI on the future of cinema. Whether you are prepping a project for production or trying to close a distribution deal, this episode is a mandatory masterclass on how to navigate the international market right now. Come Fully Prepared: Before approaching any sales agent or distributor, you must know your exact budget top-sheet, your realistic cast options, your shoot locations, and your tax credit strategy. Do not pitch an abstract idea; pitch a business plan. The Sweet Spot Budget: The current market "sweet spot" for independent genre films is £1.2M–£1.5M. Going higher requires highly recognizable names; going lower works best in horror where a strong, high-concept hook can carry the film. Horror and Rom-Coms are Leading: Horror and elevated genre films remain the most bulletproof, reliable bets globally. However, romantic comedies are making a significant comeback—particularly book adaptations and projects with established cast members. The Market Moves Early: The traditional Cannes calendar has shifted. A massive portion of business and deal-making was finalized the weekend before the official market doors opened. Start your outreach and schedule your virtual meetings much earlier next year. Personalize or Perish: Sales agents are swamped with generic copy-and-paste pitch emails that don't even mention their company slate. Take the time to research exactly who you are contacting and explain why your project specifically fits their portfolio. Badges Matter Less Than Presence: The most lucrative business deals and connections didn't happen inside the secure zones; they happened in bars, beach parties, and informal networking spots. Even without an official market badge, it is still worth being on the ground. AI is a Tool, Not a Writer: The panel consensus is clear—leverage AI for workflow efficiencies like scheduling, budgeting, localized dubbing, and storyboarding. However, original human voice and lived experiences are the only things that truly make a film connect with an audience. Understand Gen Z: Gen Z is now the largest cinema-going demographic, but their tastes, media consumption, and viewing habits differ drastically from previous generations. You must understand how to market directly to them. Work the Other 360 Days: Cannes is a momentary flashpoint, not a long-term strategy. The filmmakers finding genuine traction are building relationships, sending screeners, and doing Zoom calls all year round. The Follow-Up Strategy: Don't let your market contacts go cold. Connect on LinkedIn or Instagram (read the room on which platform fits best), screenshot their contact info so you don't lose it, and follow up within a few days with a personalized, contextual message. 🎟️ Filmmakers Podcast Networking Event: Join us on 19th June at the Genesis Cinema, London! We will be hosting a industry networking session starting at 7:30 PM, followed by an exclusive screening of the thriller Voidance at 9:00 PM. Come grab a drink and talk shop! https://www.genesiscinema.co.uk/event/109921 🎬 The Up Side of Unrequited – The upcoming feature film currently in post-production by Hilary Shakespeare. 🎬 Bravado – Dom Lenoir's latest feature project, screening at Dances With Films festival in Los Angeles on 28th June. 🎬 Samodiva & Sessions – Giles Alderson's latest independent features, with worldwide and international sales represented by Dimo Alexandrov at Quantify Sales. 📊 Obsession – The low-budget horror hit referenced by the panel as a prime market case study, having recently sold to Focus Features for roughly 10x its original production budget. 🏆 NEON – Discussed extensively on the pod as a masterclass in festival acquisition and distribution strategy, having secured an unprecedented 7 consecutive Palme d'Or winners (from Parasite through to 2026). 📚 Hope for Film – The essential industry book by veteran independent producer Ted Hope. 🎥 Dogme 95 – The avant-garde filmmaking movement discussed in-depth by the panel regarding its rigid creative constraints and impact on cinematic craft. Follow us on Instagram/X: @filmmakerspod Check out our website for more episodes: www.thefilmmakerspodcast.com If you found value in this masterclass, please take two seconds to leave us a 5-star review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It keeps us bringing you the biggest and best experts in the film business every single Tuesday! Film financing, how to fund a movie, AI in filmmaking, Gen Z cinema trends, independent film distribution, movie sales agents, Giles Alderson, The Filmmakers Podcast, Stephen Follows, Hilary Shakespeare, Dom Lenoir, Dimo Alexandrov, Quantify Sales, film budget sweet spot, screenwriting producing pitch tips. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• From Shorts to Docs to Features with Oscar Winner Daniel Roher on Directing Leo Woodall & Dustin Hoffman in 'Tuner' 28.05.2026 46мин

  From Oscar Gold to Fiction Filmmaking: Daniel Roher on Tuner How do you follow up winning an Academy Award? If you are Daniel Roher (Navalny), you resist the pressure to stay in your lane, take a leaf out of Bob Dylan’s book, and make a massive leap into fiction! This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, Dom Lenoir sits down with Daniel to discuss his debut narrative feature, Tuner. Starring Leo Woodall, Dustin Hoffman, Havana Rose Liu, Lior Raz, and Jean Reno, the film is a brilliant blend of character drama and heist thriller. Daniel pulls no punches in this candid conversation about the realities of the industry. He shares how the Oscar opened doors, but why even at his level, the rejection never stops. He also breaks down the craft behind the film, explaining why he wrote the sound design into the script from day one, what it was like collaborating with master sound designer Johnny Burn, and his baptism of fire directing actors for the very first time. 🎬 IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: Festival Life: Growing up at TIFF, meeting Guillermo del Toro at 13, and the joy of bringing Tuner back home for its premiere. The Pivot: Why he chose to move away from documentaries, drawing inspiration from his heroes like the Coen Brothers and Steven Soderbergh. Handling Rejection: Getting rejected from Sundance, dealing with brutal feedback from major producers, and the importance of resilience. Mastering Sound: Working with The Zone of Interest sound designer Johnny Burn, and treating sound as a crucial storytelling tool. Tone & Genre: Balancing humour with darkness, the pivotal fish tank scene, and why he pushes back against the criticism of "predictable" genre tropes. Directing Legends: Rolling with Dustin Hoffman's improvisations, the grounding presence of Leo Woodall, and learning that "directing is casting." The Oscar Aftermath: The terrifying reality of winning an Academy Award at 29, and why he sent the statues to his parents' house so they wouldn't loom over him. 🔗 Links, Mentions & Resources: Keep an eye out for Tuner in cinemas! Watch Daniel's Oscar-winning documentary Navalny. Follow The Filmmakers Podcast on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! New episodes every Tuesday! LINKS Sizzle Maker https://sizzlemaker.io/ Making Sizzle reel - Phil Hawkins new venture. Take a look. NETWORKING and SCREEENING of Voidance on Friday June 19th. Genesis Cinema. https://www.genesiscinema.co.uk/event/109921 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• The Making of RIVALS: Mega-Episode with Alex Hassell, Nafessa Williams, Katherine Parkinson, Bella Maclean & diretor Elliot Hegarty & writer Laura Wade on the Disney+ Hit 22.05.2026 58мин

  The Making of RIVALS: Cast & Creators on the Disney+ Smash Hit Grab your shoulder pads and pour a glass of champagne! This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, we are doing a massive takeover of the show everyone is talking about: the phenomenal Disney+ adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s legendary novel, RIVALS. Because the ensemble is so huge, one interview wasn't enough. In this special mega-episode, Directors Giles Alderson and Dom Lenoir sit down for four separate masterclasses with the creators and the breakout stars to discover exactly how they brought the cutthroat, glamorous world of 1980s Rutshire to the screen. (Prefer to watch? You can catch all four of these interviews as fully filmed video episodes on our YouTube channel!) 🎬 IN THIS MEGA-EPISODE WE DISCUSS: Part 1: The Creators (Elliot Hegarty & Laura Wade) We kick things off with lead director/executive producer Elliot Hegarty and writer/creator Laura Wade. They break down the pressure of adapting a beloved 80s classic, directing a massive ensemble cast, and striking the perfect tonal balance between high-stakes drama and laugh-out-loud comedy. Part 2: The Brilliant Women of Rutshire (Katherine Parkinson & Lisa McGrillis) Acting powerhouses Katherine Parkinson (Lizzie Vereker) and Lisa McGrillis (Valerie Jones) share their insights on finding emotional truth within high-camp 80s comedy and how they collaborate with directors on massive, fast-paced TV sets. Part 3: The Breakout Stars (Bella Maclean & Luke Pasqualino) Bella Maclean (Taggie O'Hara) and Luke Pasqualino (Basil Baddingham) dive into the realities of the High-End TV audition process and how to build a memorable character arc and stand out in a massive ensemble cast. Part 4: The Power Players (Alex Hassell & Nafessa Williams) We wrap up the show with Rutshire's ultimate power players. Alex Hassell (Rupert Campbell-Black) and Nafessa Williams (Cameron Cook) discuss building undeniable on-screen chemistry and the psychology of playing characters who use charm and intimidation as weapons. 📺 Watch RIVALS:RIVALS is streaming globally right now on Disney+ and Hulu! 👇 JOIN THE COMMUNITY 👇 🌐 Website & Full Show Notes: www.thefilmmakerspodcast.com 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: [Insert Link] 🟢 Listen on Spotify: [Insert Link] 📸 Instagram: @thefilmmakerspodcast 🐦 X / Twitter: @filmmakerspod Links: HIWAY Hiway is an infrastructure platform built specifically for independent filmmakers and production companies.If you’ve ever finished a film and thought, ‘Now what?’, Hiway is tryingto solve that exact problem. It gives you one place to store your film, share it securely with partners or festivals, and even release it directly to audiences yourself. ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your palsabout this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Joanne Mitchell: From Acting to Producing Indies to Directing 'Broken Bird', Shooting in Serbia & The Actor-Director Relationship 11.05.2026 1ч 29мин

  Joanne Mitchell on Broken Bird, Directing in Serbia, and the Actor-Director Journey How do you take a story set in the rolling hills and local pubs of Northern England and shoot it entirely in Belgrade, Serbia? This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, Giles Alderson sits down with actor, producer, and director Joanne Mitchell to discuss her incredible feature directorial debut, Broken Bird. Originally developed from her award-winning short film Sybil, the film was an opening night selection at FrightFest and is now available on all major VOD platforms! Joanne pulls back the curtain on her amazing journey from producing gritty, micro-budget indies with her partner Dominic Brunt, to landing a $2 Million ($1.5M GBP) budget through Catalyst Studios as part of an incredible all-female slate. She breaks down the massive logistical challenges of shooting in Serbia, including navigating brutalist architecture, 85-degree heat, and the language barrier of working with a local crew. We also dive deep into the actor-director dynamic. Drawing from her own extensive acting career, Joanne shares her philosophy on why directors must protect an actor's rhythm, the importance of private notes, and how she cast her incredible lead, Rebecca Calder. Plus, we hear the amazing story of how she hired her brilliant cinematographer, Igor Marovic, purely on gut instinct over a Zoom call! 🎬 IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: Catching the Directing Bug: Transitioning from learning on micro-budget sets to directing shorts (Sybil, The Outing) and her debut feature. The Catalyst Studios Deal: Securing a $2M budget as part of an all-female slate of six films. Shooting in Serbia: The intense challenge of doubling Belgrade for Northern England, and how a disused royal palace kitchen became her mortuary set. Hiring on Gut Instinct: Choosing cinematographer Igor Marovic without a showreel via a Zoom call (he has since worked with Martin Scorsese!). Leading a Foreign Crew: Overcoming language barriers, using literal look-books, and earning the trust of a Serbian crew as a British female director. Directing Actors: Why Joanne's background as an actress makes her hyper-empathetic to performers, the danger of actors absorbing each other's energy, and the power of private notes. Producing vs. Directing: Why Joanne prefers the director's chair, but how her producing background gave her a realistic understanding of budget constraints. 🔗 Links, Mentions & Resources: Watch Broken Bird — Available now on all major VOD and streaming platforms! Follow The Filmmakers Podcast on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! New episodes every Tuesday! Links: HIWAY Hiway is an infrastructure platform built specifically for independent filmmakers and production companies.If you’ve ever finished a film and thought, ‘Now what?’, Hiway is trying to solve that exact problem. It gives you one place to store your film, share it securely with partners or festivals, and even release it directly to audiences yourself. RECDEK - Enter the lottery for RecDek house in Cannes 2026. Enter via the App ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your palsabout this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• David Frankel: Directing The Devil Wears Prada, Casting Emily Blunt & Trusting Actors 04.05.2026 39мин

  Directing The Devil Wears Prada, Studio Pressures, and Trusting Your Cast with David Frankel How do you adapt when a major studio cuts your post-production schedule by six weeks? This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, Giles Alderson sits down with Oscar-winning director David Frankel (The Devil Wears Prada, Sex and the City, The Morning Show). Fresh off the mix stage for his latest film, David pulls back the curtain on navigating massive studio pressures and the magic of true collaboration. David reveals the intense reality of an accelerated edit after his studio pushed his release date to May 1st to replace an delayed Avengers film. He also takes us behind the scenes of The Devil Wears Prada. He explains why he originally rejected the script because it framed Miranda as a villain, how he successfully pitched her as a heroine aiming for excellence, and what it was like discovering a young Emily Blunt on a bad VHS tape. Whether you are a student filmmaker learning the importance of clean audio, or a seasoned director wondering how to manage a massive set redesign in the courtyards of Milan, this episode is packed with unfiltered industry truth! 🎬 IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: The Accelerated Edit: How the studio's decision to move the release date to May 1st shortened post-production by at least six weeks. The Egalitarian Set: Why David prefers to walk onto the set pretending he doesn't know what he's doing, allowing actors like Meryl Streep to organically find their own blocking. Pivoting on the Fly: The terrifying but empowering decision to drop coverage and shoot a complex pop-star backstage scene as a single take. Production Design Under Pressure: Redesigning a massive fashion show set for the Brera Academy courtyard with just two weeks' notice after realizing the streets of Milan offered too little control. The Devil Wears Prada Origins: Why David originally hated the script's revenge focus, and how pitching Miranda as a heroine got the studio and Meryl Streep on board. Casting Magic: Meeting Anne Hathaway first, and casting Emily Blunt despite her initially being unavailable due to a dragon movie. TV vs. Film Autonomy: The stark contrast between having a "peanut gallery" of writers on Sex and the City versus the lonely autonomy of directing a feature film. Advice for Students: The absolute importance of trusting your actors, getting proper coverage, and prioritizing perfect sound to preserve your edit. 🔗 Links & Resources: Follow The Filmmakers Podcast on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your palsabout this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• How to Self-Finance & Distribute an Indie Thriller you shot in 8 days - 'Empire of Lies' with Matthew Hope & Joseph Millson 29.04.2026 1ч 9мин

  Empire of Lies: Making an Indie Thriller on a Shoestring with Matthew Hope & Joseph Millson What happens when an established action director strips everything away to make a micro-budget thriller in just 8 days? This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, Giles Alderson sits down with director Matthew Hope (The Veteran, All the Devil's Men) and returning champion, actor/producer Joseph Millson (Casino Royale, Signs of Life), to discuss their tense new two-hander, Empire of Lies. Matthew and Joseph pull back the curtain on true guerrilla filmmaking. They break down what it is actually like to shoot a feature film in under 10 days with a crew of just 4 to 5 people, the realities of self-financing (including how Matthew pitched the investment to his wife!), and how an epiphany on the M1 motorway finally cracked the script. We also do a massive deep dive into the business side of indie film, exploring how they utilized data analytics, Instagram, and targeted ads to independently distribute a sub-£100k movie into cinemas. If you are waiting for permission or a massive budget to make your first feature, this episode will give you the kickstart you need to just go out and shoot it! 🎬 IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: Going Micro: Matthew’s pivot from massive budget action movies to an intimate, self-funded indie. Guerrilla Filmmaking: Shooting a feature in 8–10 days with a skeletal crew of 4-5 people (and a very obliging mother-in-law's field!). Cracking the Script: The collaborative writing process, layering clues for rewatchability, and the M1 car ride that unlocked the twist. Prep vs. Spontaneity: The "John Williams analogy" and why meticulous directorial prep gives actors the freedom to improvise. Indie Distribution Masterclass: Using data analytics, social media ads, and the strategies of Jonathan Sadler to release a sub-£100k film. Reading the Room: Experiencing live audience reactions and the unexpected themes of grief viewers took away from the film. Working with Emerging Talent: Collaborating with first-time lead Natalie Spence, composer Ryan, and DOP Elliot Millson. 🔗 Links, Mentions & Resources: Watch Empire of Lies — Available now on Amazon Prime and Apple TV. Keep an eye out for Waking Slowly — The upcoming documentary about the making of Joseph Millson's directorial debut, Signs of Life. Book Recommendation: Film Marketing and Distribution: An Independent Filmmaker's Guide by Jonathan Sadler. Follow The Filmmakers Podcast on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your palsabout this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Brian Cox: The Acting Legend on Directing His Debut Feature Glenrothan, Acting, Directing and Editing Secrets & Trusting Your Crew 21.04.2026 41мин

  Brian Cox on Directing Glenrothan, Trusting Your Collaborators, and the Magic of the Edit Filmmakers, you are in for an absolute treat today. We are joined by a true titan of the industry, the legendary Brian Cox. After decades of delivering iconic performances on stage and screen, Brian sits down with us to discuss stepping behind the camera for his highly anticipated feature directorial debut, Glenrothan. Fresh off a phenomenal premiere at TIFF (complete with a massive standing ovation!), Brian breaks down his deeply egalitarian approach to filmmaking. He shares the brilliant story of how his producer, Neil Zegler, flat-out told him he was the only person who could direct this movie, and how he leaned heavily on his DP to bring the vision to life. We dive into the nitty-gritty of the craft: why Brian prioritizes script, story, and actors over rigid shot lists and storyboards, the delicate art of directing yourself and "staying out of your own way," and how assembling a powerhouse cast—including Alan Cumming, Shirley Henderson, and brilliant young talent—elevated the entire production. Plus, he shares some invaluable lessons from the cutting room, including why they had to switch editors and dramatically restructure a crucial waterfall scene. Topic of the Week: Make sure you stick around for the outro, where we break down Brian's philosophy in our Topic of the Week: The Egalitarian Set: Why the Best Directors Don't Micro-Manage. We discuss why letting go of control and trusting your Heads of Department is actually an indie director's greatest superpower. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: The Push to Direct: How producer Neil convinced Brian he had to take the helm of Glenrothan. The TIFF Premiere: The emotional experience of screening the film and receiving a standing ovation. The Egalitarian Set: Why Brian threw out rigid storyboards to focus entirely on the script, the story, and the actors. Directing Yourself: The secret to acting in your own movie and learning how to "stay out of your own way." Casting Magic: Working with heavy hitters like Alan Cumming and Shirley Henderson alongside rising young stars. The Realities of the Edit: Navigating post-production hurdles, switching editors, and the brilliant decision to move a crucial waterfall scene to later in the film. Brian’s Ultimate Advice: Why a director’s greatest superpower is trusting their department heads and valuing everyone's creative contribution. Links & Resources: Follow The Filmmakers Podcast on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify—it really helps us keep bringing you these incredible masterclasses! ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your palsabout this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• How a low budget Indie Horror became an A24 Box Office Smash: Ian Tuason on 'Undertone', audio horror & landing 'Paranormal Activity 8' 13.04.2026 1ч 2мин

  "The ultimate indie film success story! Writer and director Ian Tuason joins Giles Alderson to discuss his massive breakout horror hit, Undertone. Made for just $500,000, Undertone sparked a bidding war at Fantasia Fest, was acquired by A24 in a 7-figure deal, and is now crushing the global box office ($20M and counting). Ian breaks down how he crafted 'the scariest movie you'll ever hear' by making an audio-driven horror film where only one speaking character (Nina Kiri) is ever shown on screen. We dive deep into the emotional reality of indie filmmaking, as Ian reveals what it was like to shoot the film in his childhood home where he previously cared for his terminally ill parents. We also discuss his background in 360-degree VR horror and how this massive indie hit led to him being hired by Jason Blum and James Wan to write and direct Paranormal Activity 8. A truly inspiring masterclass in utilizing your limitations! Links & Resources: Go see Undertone in cinemas now! Follow The Filmmakers Podcast on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your palsabout this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• From a $150k Indie to making massive Box Office Hits, Directing Rom-Coms & Making 'You, Me & Tuscany' with Kat Coiro and Will Packer 08.04.2026 44мин

  How to Make a Hit Rom-Com: Will Packer & Kat Coiro on You, Me & Tuscany Are romantic comedies officially making a massive comeback? This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, we sit down with powerhouse producer Will Packer (Girls Trip, Ride Along, Straight Outta Compton) and hitmaking director Kat Coiro (Marry Me, She-Hulk, Dead to Me) to discuss their stunning new theatrical release, You, Me & Tuscany. We dive deep into the nuts and bolts of the industry, looking at how Kat transitioned from making her first feature for just $150k in 11 days, to commanding massive international sets. Will drops absolute gold on what producers are actually looking for when they hire directors, and how to successfully pitch (and stick to) your ideas in the studio system. Whether you are an indie filmmaker starting in the "run-and-gun" world or a producer looking to mount an international shoot, this episode is a masterclass in collaboration, scheduling, and leadership. 🎬 IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: Why romantic comedies are coming back in a big way. Kat’s indie roots: Making her first feature for $150k and shooting in 11 days. The logistics and challenges of producing in a foreign country. Adapting to the different cultures of international film crews. Starting in the "run-and-gun" world and knowing how to pivot on set. Why directing is exactly like being the "conductor of an orchestra." Why every director should learn all aspects and roles of filmmaking. The absolute, make-or-break importance of scheduling. What producers actually look for when picking directors. Pitching your vision and sticking to your ideas. The magic of true collaboration and why you must always respect your audience. 🔗 Links & Resources: Go see You, Me & Tuscany in cinemas now! Follow The Filmmakers Podcast on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your palsabout this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Aaron Taylor-Johnson & David Mackenzie: The Making of FUZE & Acting and Directing Without Rules 01.04.2026 34мин

  The Unconventional Making of FUZE with Aaron Taylor-Johnson & David Mackenzie How do you craft the perfect anti-hero? In this episode of The Filmmakers Podcast, host Dom Lenoir sits down with Golden Globe-winning actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kick Ass Tenet), and Academy Award-nominated director David Mackenzie (Hell or High Water, Relay) following the explosive premiere of their new high-octane thriller, FUZE. Aaron and David break down their unique, highly spontaneous collaborative process. David reveals why he completely abandons traditional continuity and prefers to "shoot the rehearsal," while Aaron shares his ultimate advice for actors: stop learning your lines in only one way. We also dive into the nitty-gritty of why they believe British film crews are some of the best and most adaptable in the world. If you want to know how to capture "energized naturalism" on screen and keep your actors on their toes, this is a masterclass you don't want to miss. Aaron Taylor-Johnson Aaron is a Golden Globe-winning actor known for his incredible versatility and intense character preparation. He burst onto the scene in Nowhere Boy and Kick-Ass, and has delivered standout performances in massive films like Nocturnal Animals, Tenet, Bullet Train, The Fall Guy, and Kraven the Hunter. He previously collaborated with David Mackenzie on the historical epic Outlaw King. David Mackenzie David is a highly acclaimed Scottish film director and producer known for his gritty, character-driven films. His massive 2016 hit Hell or High Water received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. His other notable works include the visceral prison drama Starred Up, the Netflix epic Outlaw King, and Young Adam. FUZE is out in CINEMAS April 3rd! For more filmmaking interviews like this subscribe to our channel and / or head to our website www.thefilmmakerspodcast.com LINKS ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Matt Bettinelli-Olpin & Tyler Gillett on Ready or Not 2, Scream, and Directing as a Duo 24.03.2026 52мин

  The kings of modern horror-comedy are here! Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett (the filmmaking collective Radio Silence who made Scream and Scream VI) join Dom Lenoir and Conor Boru to discuss their blood-soaked new theatrical hit, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come (2026). In this deep-dive interview, Matt and Tyler reveal why they decided to return to the universe of their 2019 breakout hit, how they managed to pick up the story on the exact same day seven years later, and the joy of torturing Samara Weaving all over again. We also discuss assembling a dream horror cast including Kathryn Newton, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Elijah Wood, and director David Cronenberg. The duo breaks down their collaborative process on set, the lessons they learned from directing franchises, and how to successfully balance terrifying tension with laugh-out-loud comedy. A masterclass for any filmmaker looking to make an impact in the genre space! 'Ready or Not 2: Here I Come' is out NOW in cinemas Radio Silence, Ready or Not 2, Ready or Not Movie, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett, Samara Weaving, Kathryn Newton, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Scream 6, Horror Filmmaking, Directing Masterclass, Filmmakers Podcast, Giles Alderson, David Cronenberg, Indie Horror. For more filmmaking interviews like this subscribe to our channel and / or head to our website www.thefilmmakerspodcast.com LINKS ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Edited by ⁠@tobiasvees⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• How to Direct Romance & Drama: Vanessa Caswill on Adapting a Bestseller 'Reminders of Him' 17.03.2026 1ч 10мин

  In this episode, host ⁠Conor Boru⁠ sits down with director ⁠Vanessa Caswill⁠ to discuss her latest feature, Reminders of Him. Vanessa is an English director and screenwriter known for her work across television and film, including the BBC miniseries Thirteen, Little Women, and the feature Love at First Sight. Her latest film follows a young mother who, after serving time in prison, attempts to rebuild a relationship with her daughter. Facing hostility from nearly everyone around her — except a bar owner with unexpected ties to the child — she must confront her past in order to create the possibility of a better future. In the episode, they discuss: Vanessa Caswill’s career journey from TV into feature filmmaking The creative challenges of adapting a bestselling novel Practical directing techniques for working with young actors Production challenges and problem-solving on set Emotional storytelling and performance-driven filmmaking Why protecting your own creative voice is essential in the industry ...and so much more! Enjoy! REMINDERS OF HIM is out on the 13th of March | ⁠TRAILER⁠ ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Edited by ⁠@tobiasvees⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• RE-RELEASE 'Hamnet' Producer Liza Marshall on How to Produce TV dramas with Temple, Riviera, Taboo 14.03.2026 1ч 11мин

  We are delighted re-release this episode with Hamnet producer and TV producer Liza Marshall as she gears up for the Oscars this week! Hosted by Giles Alderson and co-host Dom Lenoir, we sit down and chat about her experience as a producer and how she went about making TV dramas such as 'The Sins', 'Fields of Gold', 'Taboo', 'Honour' and 'Temple' and the feature films, 'Welcome to the Punch', 'Springsteen & I' and 'Before I Go To Sleep'. We talk about how he started off working as a producer for the BBC, as well as how she worked her way up, to where she is today. She discusses how she finds writers, as well as giving constructive feedback on various different screenplays. We dive deep into the difference between film and TV and how to go about pitching them to various producers in the industry. We talk pitching, working in the writers room and we discuss how the terrific Temple came about We can't wait for you to hear this weeks episode with Liza. You don't want to miss it! Enjoy! Temple is now available on Sky Temple is a British medical crime drama television series. Created by Mark O'Rowe, and starring Mark Strong, Carice Van Houten and Daniel Mays, it is based on the Norwegian drama Valkyrien, and premiered 13 September 2019 on Sky One   PATREON ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides and feedback on your film projects. Our new 4 tier structure is in place. Come join the community! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/thefilmmakerspodcast⁠ EVENTS & CROWDFUNDERS Join us on ⁠ClubHouse⁠ on Thursday's 6.30 GMT ⁠https://www.joinclubhouse.com/event/M5X0Qzvx⁠ SUPPORT THE PODCAST Read & Sign Up for ⁠The Wrap Up⁠ - Our weekly Newsletter with news and information from the world of film ⁠Spread the Word with Our Merch⁠ T-Shirts, Hoodies, Mugs, Masks and Water Bottles all now available in some very cool designs. Subscribe on ⁠iTunes⁠, ⁠Spotify,⁠ ⁠Podbean⁠, or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us out and write us a review (a good one!), tell your friends and CHOOSE FILM. Get in touch? Email us ⁠thefilmmakerspodcast@gmail.com⁠ Follow us on ⁠Twitter⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠ Check out our full episode archive at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠ CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is hosted and written by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠  Produced and edited by Robbie McKane @⁠robbiemckane⁠ & Samuel Evans ⁠@SamuelHEvans_⁠ Social Media by Kalli Pasqualucci ⁠@kallieep⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey⁠ Part of the ⁠www.podfixnetwork.squarespace.com⁠ WATCH OUR FILMS ⁠The Dare⁠ UK | ⁠Trailer⁠ ⁠The Dare⁠ Canada and USA  ⁠A Serial Killers Guide to Life⁠ | ⁠Trailer⁠ ⁠Arthur & Merlin: Knights of Camelot⁠ ⁠Winter Ridge⁠ UK ⁠The Isle⁠ ⁠Fanged Up⁠ ⁠The Marker⁠ ⁠Star Wars: Origins⁠   MORE FROM OUR FRIENDS Follow our Regular Hosts ⁠@LucindaRhodes⁠ ⁠@DirDomLenoir⁠ ⁠@35mmdop⁠ ⁠@philmblog⁠ ⁠@IanSharp1⁠ ⁠@Cjamesdirect⁠ ⁠@dan710ths⁠ Follow Make Your Film for Live Events with our Guests ⁠@makeyourfilm20 ⁠ Follow our Movies ⁠@thedaremovie⁠ ⁠@⁠⁠Food4ThoughtDoc⁠ ⁠@FangedUpFilm⁠  Raindance events ⁠www.raindance.org⁠ The Filmmakers Podcast recommends ⁠Performance Insurance⁠ Music from ⁠musicbed.com⁠ Giles Alderson’s ⁠website⁠  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Episode 500 Special! Filmmaking Advice: Audience Q&A, IndieFilm determination & Director Secrets with Giles Alderson, Dom Lenoir and Phil Hawkins 09.03.2026 1ч 30мин

  We made it to Episode 500! 🎉 After 9 years, over 600 hours of audio, and interviews with hundreds of the greatest directors, writers, actors and producers in the world, The Filmmakers Podcast is celebrating its 500th episode the best way we know how: by turning the microphones over to YOU. In this massive milestone episode, hosts and working filmmakers Giles Alderson (The Dare), Dom Lenoir (Winter Ridge), and Phil Hawkins (Robin and the Hoods) sit down to answer your audience questions. We strip back the curtain on our own filmmaking journeys, share the brutal realities of the indie hustle, and reflect on the greatest pieces of advice we’ve gathered from half a thousand episodes. From chatting about micro-budget producing to remembering our legendary sit-downs with cinematic titans like Sam Raimi, Paul Schrader, Steven Knight, Ari Aster, Chris McQuarrie and Zack Snyder, this episode is a love letter to the independent filmmaking community that makes this show possible. In this 500th Episode Q&A, we discuss: The Origin Story: How the podcast started as a chat between friends in 2017. The "Host" Hustle: How Giles, Dom, and Phil balance making actual feature films with running lives and the podcast. The Greatest Advice: The best lessons we've learned from 500 episodes about overcoming the fear of failure, financing indie films, and surviving on set. Your Questions Answered: Tackling the biggest hurdles our listeners are facing right now in 2026. What’s Next? For the hosts and where the podcast goes from here! Thank you for 500 episodes of listening, sharing, and making movies. We are in the business of making films, not just talking about them—now go get your next project made! Support the show & join the community: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts & Spotify! Leave us a 5-star review (it helps us get to episode 1,000!) Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @filmmakerspod The HOSTS films The Dare, Winter Ridge, Robin and the Hoods and many more are available to watch. Please do watch and support us. ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey The Filmmakers Podcast, Filmmaking, Indie Film, How to direct a movie, Film Producing, Giles Alderson, Dom Lenoir, Phil Hawkins, Screenwriting, Film Finance, Micro Budget Film, Director Interview, Film School, Cinematography, Filmmaker Q&A, Podcast Episode 500 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Steven Knight & Hannah Walters: Creating A Thousand Blows, Peaky Blinders & Boiling Point 02.03.2026 33мин

  On this weeks The Filmmakers Podcast are legendary creator Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) and powerhouse actress/producer Hannah Walters (Boiling Point) who join Dom Lenoir (Winter Ridge) to discuss their hit Disney+ series, A Thousand Blows (2026). We delve into the true history of the Forty Elephants gang, the art of writing historical thrillers, and what it takes to produce high-end drama for global streamers. Steven also shares updates on the Peaky Blinders movie and writing the new James Bond, while Hannah discusses her mission with Matriarch Productions and her role as Eliza Moody. A masterclass in television architecture and independent producing. A Thousand Blows is OUT NOW on Disney and Hulu Links ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Making a microbudget indiefilm, Crowdfunding to Apple TV: The Story of 'Time Rewind' with writer-director Lincoln Fenner & actor Tim Cullingworth-Hudson 27.02.2026 1ч 6мин

  In this episode, hosts Giles Alderson and Dom Lenoir sit down with writer-director-producer Lincoln Fenner and lead actor Tim Cullingworth-Hudson to talk about their time-travel feature Time Rewind (2025) — an ambitious independent film made on a very limited budget that went on to win multiple festival awards and secure international distribution on Apple TV. In their conversation, they discuss: Building a creative partnership based on trust, passion, and shared commitment The nearly decade-long journey of developing the film Writing the complexities and internal logic of a time-travel story Crowdfunding the project and navigating indie financing realities Creative problem-solving when working with limited resources The importance of perseverance, collaboration, and trusting your instincts TIME REWIND is out NOW! | TRAILER A man wakes with amnesia suspected of the murder of his teenage daughter and finds he must travel back to 1989 to save her from a bullying accident that is destined to claim her life. ⁠FOOD FOR THOUGHT⁠ documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE ⁠HERE.⁠ A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! ⁠PODCAST MERCH⁠ Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more ⁠MERCH⁠. ⁠https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/⁠   ⁠COURSES⁠ Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE ⁠https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/⁠   ⁠PATREON⁠ Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? ⁠Join our Patreon⁠ for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at ⁠TheFilmmakersPodcast.com⁠   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson ⁠@gilesalderson⁠ Edited by ⁠@tobiasvees⁠ Logo and Banner Art by ⁠Lois Creative ⁠ Theme Music by ⁠John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• How Bart Layton Turned a Novella into an 85% Rotten Tomatoes Hit with latest feature film Crime 101 19.02.2026 34мин

  BAFTA-winning filmmaker Bart Layton (The Imposter, American Animals) joins Giles Alderson and Dom Lenoir to discuss his massive new crime thriller, Crime 101 (2026). In this deep-dive interview, Bart reveals how he assembled a powerhouse cast including Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, and Barry Keoghan. We discuss his process for adapting Don Winslow’s novella, why he prefers 'character-driven tension' over CGI spectacle, and the technical challenges of filming high-speed car chases on the L.A. freeways.Whether you’re a fan of Michael Mann-style thrillers or looking to learn how to bridge the gap between documentary and fiction, this is a masterclass you cannot miss. FOOD FOR THOUGHT documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE HERE. A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! PODCAST MERCH Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/   COURSES Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/   PATREON Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesalderson Edited by @tobiasvees Logo and Banner Art by Lois Creative  Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• The Nun Director Corin Hardy: From Music Videos to Sundance to Hollywood Horror 'WHISTLE' 14.02.2026 52мин

  In this episode, host Giles Alderson (The Dare) sits down with acclaimed director Corin Hardy for an in-depth conversation about craft, career trajectory, and working within the horror genre. Corin Hardy is an award-winning filmmaker, illustrator, sculptor, and writer known for a striking visual style that blends the macabre with the epic and the beautiful. After studying theatre design at Wimbledon School of Art, Hardy created the award-winning stop-motion short Butterfly (2004), which launched his directing career. He went on to direct acclaimed music videos for major artists, before making his feature debut with The Hallow, which premiered at Sundance and won multiple international awards. He later directed the global horror hit The Nun, part of The Conjuring Universe, and most recently completed his latest feature Whistle. In this episode, we discuss: Corin’s early creative upbringing and DIY beginnings in practical FX Transitioning from shorts and music videos into feature filmmaking The making and impact of his debut feature The Hallow How he landed the directing role on The Nun Working within major studio franchises vs independent filmmaking His newest feature Whistle and what audiences can expect Crafting visual storytelling through storyboarding ...and so much more! A must-listen episode for directors, horror fans, and anyone interested in the intersection of visual design, genre storytelling, and career progression in the film industry. WHISTLE is out NOW! | TRAILER FOOD FOR THOUGHT documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE HERE. A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! PODCAST MERCH Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/   COURSES Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/   PATREON Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesalderson Edited by @tobiasvees Logo and Banner Art by Lois Creative  Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• SEND HELP: Sam Raimi (Evil Dead), Zainab Azizi & actor Dylan O’Brien on creating an Original Thriller for Cinema 12.02.2026 43мин

  Welcome back to The Filmmakers Podcast!Filmmakers, today is a massive double-header. We are taking a deep dive into the survival horror sensation that everyone is talking about: Send Help.In the first half, we are joined by the architectural minds behind the film. First, he is a man who needs no introduction — the architect of modern horror and the superhero blockbuster. From the cabin in the woods of Evil Dead to the original Spider-Man trilogy and the madness of Doctor Strange, please welcome the legendary Sam Raimi!He is joined by his powerhouse producing partner and the President of Raimi Productions, Zainab Azizi. Zainab has been the driving force behind a string of recent hits, including the high-concept thriller 65, the Netflix hit Don't Move, and the upcoming Locked. Together, they break down how they navigated a grueling 11-week shoot in Australia and Thailand to bring this visceral story to life.Then, in part two, we sit down with the film’s co-lead. He’s an actor who has evolved from a YA icon in The Maze Runner into one of the most versatile performers working today — shining in everything from Love and Monsters to playing Dan Aykroyd in Saturday Night and his award-winning turn in Twinless. He is here to talk about playing the boss-from-hell turned helpless survivor: Dylan O’Brien!Grab your notebooks... let’s welcome Sam Raimi, Zainab Azizi, and Dylan O’Brien! SEND HELP is out in cinemas NOW! | TRAILER FOOD FOR THOUGHT documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE HERE. A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify,or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! PODCAST MERCH Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/   COURSES Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/   PATREON Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesalderson Edited by @tobiasvees Logo and Banner Art by Lois Creative  Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Making the BAFTA-Nominated 'I SWEAR': Producers Piers Tempest & Georgia Bayliff + Director Kirk Jones 03.02.2026 1ч 32мин

  In this special episode, we go behind the scenes of the 6-time BAFTA-nominated film I Swear (2026) with the filmmaking team! In Part 1, Giles Alderson and Dom Lenoir sit down with producers Piers Tempest (The Wife, William Tell) and Georgia Bayliff (Paradise Highway) from Tempo Productions. They discuss the reality of financing independent British drama in 2026, how they packaged a film about Tourette’s syndrome as a crowd-pleasing theatrical event, and the role of a producer during a busy awards season. In Part 2, Giles and Dom are joined by writer/director Kirk Jones (Waking Ned, Nanny McPhee, Everybody’s Fine). Kirk reveals why he returned to his indie roots for this passion project, the challenge of directing Robert Aramayo's transformative performance (nominated for Best Actor), and how he raised finance and balanced humor with the gritty reality of the true story. I Swear is OUT NOW on PRIME VIDEO Links FOOD FOR THOUGHT documentary out NOW | Watch it FREE HERE. A documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the veganlifestyle around the world. – And if you enjoyed the film, please take amoment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review& every comment helps us share the film’s important message withmore people. Your support makes a difference! Help us out and Subscribe, listen and review us on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts but more importantly, tell your pals about this podcast. Thank you! PODCAST MERCH Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/   COURSES Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/   PATREON Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects!   SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com   CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, produced and edited by Giles Alderson @gilesalderson Logo and Banner Art by Lois Creative  Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices