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 a...
Cutting The A24 Sundance Feature OPUS & Finding Career Success With Editor Ernie Gilbert
In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Ernie Gilbert to discuss his work on A24's upcoming horror-thriller-comedy OPUS, which recently premiered at Sundance. Throughout our discussion, we explore Ernie’s creative process, his work in commercials & music videos, career building, and more. Topics covered include:The benefits of bringing editors on early in pre-productionEditing remotely while production is taking placeHow to maintain fresh eyes on long-form projectsBalancing work across features, commercials, and music videosThe transition from editing to directing and backBuilding relationships and collecting "merit badges" in the industryBest practices for managing conflicting creative notesLinks from the show: Ernie Gilbert - WebsiteErnie Gilbert - Instagram Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday
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1:09:06
Making A $10,000 Feature Film Documentary With Director Rob Smat
In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Rob Smat who shares his experience transitioning from the $100,000 feature film The Last Whistle to a $10,000 documentary Walkout, and the valuable lessons learned along the way.Throughout our discussion, we explore the realities of micro-budget filmmaking and distribution through the lens of both projects. Topics covered include:• How scaling down production increases creative control• Working with traditional distributors vs. self-distribution platforms• Marketing & AVOD strategies for micro-budget films• The importance of building a sustainable filmmaking career• The value of making multiple films vs. betting only on one project• Finding success through grassroots marketing and community outreachLinks from the show: Film Collaborative's Distributor Report Card BitMAXWalkout - FilmWalkout - Companion PodcastSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday
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50:19
Stephania Dulowski on Editing BUNNYLOVR & Premiering At Sundance 2025
In this episode, I am joined by film editor Stephania Dulowski to discuss her work on the Sundance dramatic competition feature film Bunny Lover. We dive deep into her editorial process and explore the tactics she used to pull off an amazing edit in record time.Topics covered include:Completing a first cut in just one monthNavigating test screenings and filmmaker feedbackThe importance of technical skills and communication in editingEditorial workflow breakdown from dailies review to final cutBalancing creative vision with practical constraintsLinks from the show:Stephania Dulowski's WebsiteStephania Dulowski's InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday
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53:18
Behind The Scenes With Samantha Scaffidi On The Terrifier Franchise, Her New Short Film & More!
In this episode, I am thrilled to be joined by actor and filmmaker Samantha Scaffidi, known for her role in the massively successful Terrifier franchise, and her upcoming short film Open Your Eyes.Thought the episode, Samantha offers a unique perspective on independent filmmaking from both sides of the camera. We unpack how the Terrifier films evolved from a $30,000 micro-budget horror film to a $2M theatrical blockbuster, while maintaining its independent spirit - thanks to director Damien Leone's uncompromising vision.We also explore the realities of modern independent filmmaking, the importance of artistic integrity, and why sometimes less resources can lead to more creative freedom. Samantha shares insights from her experience both acting in micro-budget productions and directing high-end commercials, ultimately explaining why she chose to return to her independent filmmaking roots.Topics covered include: How Terrifier evolved from a $30K first film to a $2M third installmentThe crew behind the original Terrifier, and how director Damien Leone handled multiple rolesSamantha’s transition from acting to directing, including doc work and commercial projectsHer upcoming psychological horror short film Open Your EyesThe profound influence of John Cassavetes on Samantha’s artistic philosophyThe realities of film festival programming and industry networkingThe challenges of balancing commercial work with personal creative projectsLinks from the show: Samantha Scaffidi – InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday
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1:03:36
Misha Calvert & Raye Spielberg On Making Their Powerful Short Film PINK FLAGS
In this episode, I am joined by director Misha Calvert and actor Raye Spielberg to unpack their latest short film PINK FLAGS - a figure skating drama that stars both Raye and her husband Sawyer Spielberg.Throughout our discussion, we dive into the collaborative process at length, with special emphasis on the merits of working with close friends and family. Topics covered include:Misha's journey from directing comedy & TV to making a full scale short filmTurning a $50K budget into $300K of production valueRaye's three months of figure skating training & how it helped set this film apartThe dynamics of actor-director workflows when working with friendsBenefits of short films vs. long form projectsMuch more!Links from them show:Misha Calvert - InstagramMisha Calvert - WebsiteMisha Calvert - ClassesRaye Spielberg - InstagramRaye Spielberg - WebsiteSign 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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