Film Trooper Podcast with Scott McMahon: A Filmmaking Podcast (IFH Podcast Network)

In this episode, Indie Film Coach, Ron Newcomb, interviews the filmmakers of "Slice of Life", Dino Julius & Luka Hrgovic. You'll discover how they made practical effects work in their low budget Sci-Fi film that is very reminiscent of the original Blade Runner.

In this episode, the Indie Film Coach, Ron Newcomb, interviews VR and Augmented Reality filmmaker, Craig Stiff.
 
Dimension Studio ...







 







 
Links ...
Site: https://www.dimensionstudio.co/

In this episode, Indie Film Coach, Ron Newcomb, interviews Titus Paar, the filmmaker behind the epic Viking Horror film, "The Legend of Dark Rider".

In this episode, I am joined by Tucia Lyman, filmmaker of "M.O.M." as we discuss what to do with your film when it's finished and you are searching for film distribution.

[Podcast] How To Make Films For China
In this episode, returning guest, Thomas Lim from Sun Entertainment Culture Shares with us how filmmakers can make films for the Chinese market.

Sun Entertainment Culture ...
Sun Entertainment Culture (SEC), established in 2011, aims at bringing top quality entertainment to audiences worldwide by producing and distributing film and TV projects, organizing live concerts, and creating strategic marketing events.
Under CEO Alex Dong, Sun Entertainment has invested in, produced, and distributed over 100 films in the last 7 years, with profits totaling over US$1billion at the box office. Our films have also won multiple prestigious awards particularly in Asia, and gave current action stars like Wu Jing and Tony Jaa their break into becoming A-list actors.  (Read More)
 
Sea of Mirrors
Film Website:  Sea of Mirrors
 

Do you think you can help make films for China?
Contact Thomas Lim at:   thomas.lim (AT) suneg.com
Be sure to CC Thomas's assistant, Ivana Yee at:  ivana.yee (AT) suneg.com

What Happens When You Make A Movie For The Mob?
In this episode, I'm joined again by my good friend and fellow podcaster, Alex Ferrari of Indie Film Hustle.  Alex shares with us how he wrote the true life story of trying to make a feature film for the mob and it nearly broke him.  In addition to the book, we get into other important industry topics.
 
Shooting For The Mob (Based on an incredible true story)
A bipolar gangster, a naive young film director, and Batman--what could go wrong? Alex Ferrari is a first-time film director who just got hired to direct a $20 million feature film. The only problem is that the film is about Jimmy, an egomaniacal gangster who wants the film to be about his life in the mob. From the backwater towns of Louisiana to the Hollywood Hills, Alex is taken on a crazy misadventure through the world of the mafia and Hollywood. Huge movie stars, billion-dollar producers, studio heads, and, of course, a few gangsters populate this unbelievable journey down the rabbit hole of chasing one's dream. Would you sell your soul to the devil to make your dream come true? By the way, did I mention that this story is based on true events? No, seriously it is.
 
Buy the book!

FINAL EPISODE:  Lessons Learned
In this episode, I'm joined once again by my good friend and fellow podcaster, Alex Ferrari of Indie Film Hustle.  Since this is the final episode for the Film Trooper podcast, Alex and I discuss everything that we've learned while running our podcasts.  It's a long episode, but contains a lot of value bombs!  Enjoy and thank you for listening :-)
Get more from Alex!
Rise of the Filmtrepreneur: How to Turn Your Indie Film into a Moneymaking Business - http://www,filmbizbook.com
 
Indie Film Hustle: http://www.indiefilmhustle.com
Indie Film Hustle TV: http://www.indiefilmhustle.tv
 
Filmtrepreneur: http://www.filmtrepreneur.com
Bulletproof Screenwriting: www.bulletproofscreenwriting.tv
 
On the Corner of Ego and Desire (Sundance Film): http://www.egoanddesirefilm.com
 
Shooting for the Mob (Based on the Incredible True Filmmaking Story): http://www.shootingforthemob.com
 
Buy the book!

In this episode, Ashley Scott Meyers from the SellingYourScreenplay.com joins us to discuss what filmmakers really should do when they finish their indie films.  Listen in as Meyers shares what he's doing with his film, "The Pinch".

Selling Your Screenplay

 
"The Pinch"
https://youtu.be/Di4J1ZLkdJY
 
Free 3-Hour Webinar
Ashley Scott Meyers offers a free 3-hour webinar on all aspects of productions for "The Pinch".
Click here to gain access:  http://www.sellingyourscreenplay.com/the-pinch/

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this Film Marketing Friday, I am joined by Australian filmmaker Sky Crompton whose film “Citizen Jia Li” was an official selection at a wide array of film festivals.  We discuss the marketing barriers that most independent filmmakers face today. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!   JOIN THE…
The post 059: Film Marketing Fridays, Can Someone Else Do The Marketing? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this Film Marketing Friday, I am joined by filmmaker Sérgio Toledo and his new film, Bola ao Cesto – O resgate de uma história (Ball to the Basket – History of a Rescue).  This is a documentary about the history of the Brazilian National Basketball Team and where the future lies…
The post 060: Film Marketing Fridays, How Do I Get My Targeted Audience To Buy My Film? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode I do my best to answer 10 Film Marketing Questions for filmmaker, Tom Wadlow, over at Lightfilms http://www.lightfilms.co.uk/ Tom made a really good looking zombie film in his garage and wanted to know what strategies he could implement in the future to take advantage of the initial…
The post 061: Film Marketing Fridays, 10 Marketing Questions appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode I do my best to answer David Andrade’s question of “How do you get discovered?”   David is founder of the Theory Animation Studio http://theoryanimation.com I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!   JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM…
The post 062: Film Marketing Fridays, How Do You Get Discovered? appeared first on Film Trooper.

AUTHOR & DIRECTOR OF DISTRIBUTION, SCOTT KIRKPATRICK ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with the Director of Distribution for MarVista Entertainment, and author of the new book, “Writing for the Green Light: How to Make Your Script the One Hollywood Notices”, Scott Kirkpatrick. Grab yourself a copy of…
The post 063: Writing for the Green Light: How to Make Your Script the One Hollywood Notices with Scott Kirkpatrick appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode, I’m joined by guest filmmaker, Matt Pillischer, as we tackle some film marketing questions on his film, “A Dark Souvenir”.  The big questions that affects most of us is … What sort of marketing can you do when you have no budget and a full time…
The post 064: Film Marketing Fridays, Marketing Tips When You Have a Full Time Job appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this session, I’m joined by filmmaker, Bojan Dubalic, as he asks some very specific questions as it pertains to his new feature film, “Project Eugenics”. I NEED YOUR LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING…
The post 066: Film Marketing Fridays, How Do You Promote Your Film Without Annoying Everyone? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this session,  I tackle the comments made by Mr. Iron Man himself, Robert Downey Jr. and his thoughts on indie film. I NEED YOUR LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS GRAB THE PRESENTATION…
The post 068: Film Marketing Fridays, IRON MAN Right or Wrong? appeared first on Film Trooper.

ACTRESS & PRODUCER, MARISA VITALI ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode, I speak with NY Actress and Producer, Maris Vitali, about her new film “Grace” and the real-life struggle of recovering from heroin addiction. http://www.grace-the-movie.com/ Learn more about Marisa at:  http://www.marisavitali.com/index.html Don’t go away empty handed … Are you stuck trying to make…
The post 069: Healing Through Art, From Heroin Addiction to Filmmaker, Marisa Vitali Explains appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I’m joined by Skyline Indie Film Festival Founder, Brian Patrick, as we discuss the incentive and value of the film festival for filmmakers. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM…
The post 070: Film Marketing Fridays, Film Festivals … Yay or Nay? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I’m joined by filmmaker, Alrik Bursell, as we explore the question, “What if you don’t take your film to a festival?” DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS…
The post 071: Film Marketing Fridays – What If You Don’t Take Your Film To A Festival? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I’m joined by guest filmmakers, Arian Harandi and Melissa Izbicki, as they ask several questions that can be helpful to other filmmakers who are about to launch into their next project, but want to know more about DIY film marketing. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING? …
The post 072: Film Marketing Fridays – Why You Only Want To Sell To One Person appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I’ll be joined by guest filmmaker and actress, Marysia Trembecka as we tackle some of her marketing questions that pertain to her upcoming web series, “Songs of Soho” starring her character, “The Singing Psychic”. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN…
The post 073: Film Marketing Fridays – Marketing Tips for a Web Series appeared first on Film Trooper.

 Q&A with DARK HAVEN STUDIOS, MIKE LUNDAHL ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode, I talk with Dark Haven Studios Founder, Mike Lundahl, as we go over a few of his business and marketing questions that all Film Troopers can benefit from. WATCH the teaser trailer for “124 New Beginnings” here:  http://www.dark-haven.biz/movies/124/ Don’t go away…
The post 075: Q&A with Dark Haven Studios and Mike Lundahl appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I’m joined by guest filmmakers, Richard and Holly Soriano, as we go over a few of their questions and ask the bigger question … What Am I Really Marketing? DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER…
The post 076: Film Marketing Fridays, What Am I Really Marketing? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I’m joined by guest filmmaker (all the way from Ahmedabad, India), Rihaan Patel. Rihaan wanted to know more about the marketing and sales concepts of the “Buyer’s Circle”. I illustrate how the “Buyer’s Circle” is similar to the “Hero’s Journey”. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING? …
The post 078: Film Marketing Fridays, The Buyer’s Circle appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I explore the myth of VOD Sales Projections and how to better understand the numbers.  All in an effort to help the über independent filmmaker construct a better business proposal for their film project. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN…
The post 079: Film Marketing Fridays, VOD Sales Projections appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I tackle the common pain for most über indie filmmakers who just don’t want to do any marketing. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS GRAB THE PRESENTATION…
The post 080: Film Marketing Fridays, Forget Marketing appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I explore the deeper questions of marketing which is to figure out “what results do you want?” DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS GRAB THE PRESENTATION FILE…
The post 081: Film Marketing Fridays, What Results Do You Want? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session (part 1 of 2), I tackle several questions from guest filmmaker, Phillip Abraham, as we steer our way to answering using Facebook to market your film. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO…
The post 082: Film Marketing Fridays, Facebook Marketing for Filmmakers (Part 1) appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session (part 2 of 2), I tackle several questions from guest filmmaker, Phillip Abraham, as we steer our way to answering using Facebook to market your film. DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU’RE HEARING?  LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO…
The post 083: Film Marketing Fridays, Facebook Marketing for Filmmakers (Part 2) appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I explore ways to successfully navigate Hollywood with guest filmmaker, Thomas Lim. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Download the presentation slides (PDF) Guest Filmmaker:  Thomas Lim Find Thomas at:  http://news.islandmanpictures.com Do you need VOD projection numbers for your next film project?…
The post 084: Film Marketing Fridays, What is Your Unfair Advantage? appeared first on Film Trooper.

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I explore several questions from guest filmmaker, Matt Garman, including how to work with a casting director, finding named stars, how often to promote, and at what price should you sell your film. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Download…
The post 085: Film Marketing Fridays, Pricing Your Film appeared first on Film Trooper.

Indie Film Hustle, Alex Ferrari on the Film Trooper Podcast In this episode (Part 2 of 2), I interview, Alex Ferrari, founder of Indie Film Hustle, and filmmaker of the short film, “Broken”, which made $90,000 from DVD sales in 2006. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community http://www.indiefilmhustle.com/ http://alexferrari.com/work/broken/ Don’t…
The post 087: How a Filmmaker Made $90,000 Selling His Short Film Online with Alex Ferrari (Part 2) appeared first on Film Trooper.

Producer Foundry, Ben Yennie on the Film Trooper Podcast In this episode, I catch up with Producer’s Rep and Founder of Producer Foundry, Ben Yennie, as he shares his insights on the film industry in the Bay area, as well as, preparing for the American Film Market (AFM). Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join…
The post 088: Producer’s Rep and Founder of Producer Foundry, Ben Yennie appeared first on Film Trooper.

In this episode, we continue our conversation about my lengthy hiatus to share what I've learned while being away.  My special guest is Kyle Erwin from "The Backyard Space Opera" podcast.
The post 146: What I Learned From My Hiatus From Film Trooper (Part 2) appeared first on Film Trooper.

The IFH Podcast Network makes it easy for you to discover, connect, and engage with industry-leading filmmaking and screenwriting podcasts, all in one place. We curate the best podcasts that will help you on your filmmaking and screenwriting journey. You can listen to any of our shows on your favorite podcast platform. #IndieFilmUnite

http://www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com

This season we will be deconstructing the work and career of film director Christopher Nolan on The Directors Series Podcast hosted by Cameron Beyl.

Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network
http://www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com

Today on the show we have a filmmaker that was able to crack the Amazon code and actually make money self-distributing his low-budget film on the platform. His name is Ismael Gomez.

Ismael Gomez is a Cuban-American filmmaker. In 2009, he received an Artist Fellowship grant to pursue his B.A in Film Production. After completing his studies, he began to work as lead editor on several motion pictures and commercials for theatrical and TV release. Some of his projects have screened at Cannes, Starz Denver, Tribeca, and Miami International film festivals.

CROSSOVER EVENT with the Indie Film Hustle Podcast.

Today on the show we have low-budget visual effects master Kevin Good. Kevin is a freelance cinematographer, VFX artist, and director. He has worked on diverse projects from creating television pilots for Fox Television Studios to shooting interactive feature-length films for the U.S. Army.

His work has been featured in the Independent TV Festival in Los Angeles, the New York Television Festival, the Cannes Film Festival, the Edinburgh International TV Festival, the Festival Internacional de Televisão in Rio de Janeiro, the Boston International Film Festival, and others. Kevin now balances his time between teaching at Boston University’s Center for Digital Imaging Arts, freelance production work, and developing his own crazy projects, many of which are featured on his site.

Kevin Good’s debut feature, Dinner with the Alchemist premieres at the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood as part of the Dances With Films festival. Dinner with the Alchemist is a masterclass in low-budget filmmaking and using visual effects to create scale and production value.

Enjoy my eye-opening conversation with Kevin Good.

Alex Ferrari has been thinking about doing this podcast for a long time. In the tradition of Why Filmmakers are Always So Damn Broke & What They Can Do to Change It this episode is going to be a cold bucket of water over your head if you are not ready for it. In the insane world we are all living in today, filmmakers need to break out of the mindset that we are living in the golden age of indie cinema.

The rules have changed dramatically since the 90s and even more so in the last 8 months of the COVID pandemic. The rules aren't the only thing that has changed but the game has as well. The film distribution infrastructure is broken and has been broken for many decades. It is not set up to help filmmakers make money. It is purely designed to put more money into the pockets of film distributors.

I have written extensively about this in my book Rise of the Filmtrepreneur: How to Turn Your Indie Film into a Moneymaking Business. I want to put together one of my hard truths episodes to help filmmakers better understand the indie film marketplace and how to best position themselves to actually make money.

There is so much talk about new cameras, lenses, rigs, post-production software, and other more interesting aspects of the filmmaking process but when it comes to selling and making money with movies filmmakers rely on old information that is no longer relevant in the current marketplace. I hope this episode empowers you to not only make more movies but to also make money while doing it.

Strap yourself in because for some of you it will be a rough episode to listen to. Be well, stay safe, and keep that hustle going.

Today on the show I bring you one of the most influential and iconic filmmakers in the history of cinema, three-time Oscar® winner Oliver Stone. Throughout his legendary career, Oliver Stone has served as director, writer, and producer on a variety of films, documentaries, and television movies. His films have been nominated for forthy two Oscars® and have won twelve.

I hope this conversation inspires filmmakers and screenwriters to never give up. Oliver struggled for years taking jobs as a production assistant, cab driver, office assistant, and any other gig he could find to help him survive while he was chasing his dream. He wrote and wrote, meeting his goal of one to two screenplays a year, no matter what. Never give up, never surrender.

Enjoy my epic conversation with Oliver Stone.

We have made it to 450 episodes of the Indie Film Hustle Podcast. The IFH Tribe has given me 450 opportunities to serve them and for that I am humbled. Thank you all for allowing me to do what I love to do so much. With that said I wanted to bring you a massive guest for this remarkable milestone. Today’s guest is a writer, director, producer, actor and indie filmmaking legend Edward Burns.

Many of you might have heard of the Sundance Film Festival winning film called The Brothers McMullen, his iconic first film that tells the story of three Irish Catholic brothers from Long Island who struggle to deal with love, marriage, and infidelity. His cinderella story of making the film, getting into Sundance and launching his career is the stuff of legend.

The Brothers McMullen was sold to Fox Searchlight and went on to make over $10 million at the box office on a $27,000 budget, making it one of the most successful indie films of the decade.



Ed went off to star in huge films like Saving Private Ryan for Steven Spielberg and direct studio films like the box office hit She’s The One. The films about the love lives of two brothers, Mickey and Francis, interconnect as Francis cheats on his wife with Mickey’s ex-girlfriend, while Mickey impulsively marries a stranger.



Even after his mainstream success as an actor, writer and director he still never forgot his indie roots. He continued to quietly produce completely independent feature films on really low budgets. How low, how about $9000. As with any smart filmmaker, Ed has continued to not only produce films but to consider new methods of getting his projects to the world.



In 2007, he teamed up with Apple iTunes to release an exclusive film Purple Violets. It was a sign of the times that the director was branching out to new methods of release for his projects.

In addition, he also continued to release works with his signature tried-and-true method of filmmaking. Using a very small $25,000 budget and a lot of resourcefulness, Burns created Nice Guy Johnny in 2010.



Johnny Rizzo is about to trade his dream job in talk radio for some snooze-ville gig that’ll pay enough to please his fiancée. Enter Uncle Terry, a rascally womanizer set on turning a weekend in the Hamptons into an eye-opening fling for his nephew. Nice Guy Johnny’s not interested, of course, but then he meets the lovely Brooke, who challenges Johnny to make the toughest decision of his life.

The film debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival. While he was releasing that film, Burns wrote, starred and directed Newlyweds. He filmed this on a small Canon 5D camera in only 12 days and on a budget of only $9,000.

Newlyweds Buzzy and Katie find their blissful life disrupted by the arrival of his half-sister and news of her sister’s marriage troubles.



In his book, Independent Ed: Inside a Career of Big Dreams, Little Movies, and the Twelve Best Days of My Life (which I recommend ALL filmmakers read), Ed mentions some rules he dubbed “McMullen 2.0” which were basically a set of rules for independent filmmakers to shoot by.

Actors would have to work for virtually nothing.
The film should take no longer than 12 days to film and get into the can
Don’t shoot with any more than a three-man crew
Actor’s use their own clothes
Actors do their own hair and make-up
Ask and beg for any locations
Use the resources you have at your disposal
I used similar rules when I shot my feature films This is Meg, which I shot that in 8 days and On the Corner of Ego and Desire which I shot in 4 days. To be honest Ed was one of my main inspirations when I decided to make my first micro-budget feature film, along with Mark and Jay Duplass, Joe Swanberg and Michael and Mark Polish.

Ed has continued to have an amazing career directing films like The Fitzgerald Family Christmas, The Groomsmen, Looking for Kitty, Ash Wednesday, Sidewalks of New York, No Looking Back and many more.

Ed jumped into television with the Spielberg produced TNT drama Public Morals, where he wrote, directed and starred in every episode.



Set in the early 1960s in New York City’s Public Morals Division, where cops walk the line between morality and criminality as the temptations that come from dealing with all kinds of vice can get the better of them.



His latest project is EPIX’s Bridge and Tunnel is a dramedy series set in 1980 that revolves around a group of recent college grads setting out to pursue their dreams in Manhattan while still clinging to the familiarity of their working-class Long Island hometown. He also pulls writing, producing and directing duties for all the episodes.



Ed has continued to give back to the indie film community with his amazing book, lectures and his knowledge bomb packed director commentaries. Trust me go out and buy the DVD versions of all his films. His commentaries are worth the price of admission.

When I first spoke to Ed he told that he had been a fan of the podcast for a while. As you can imagine I was floored and humbled at the same time. Getting to sit-down and speak to a filmmaker that had such an impact my own directing career was a dream come true. Ed is an inspiration to so many indie filmmakers around the world and I’m honored to bring this epic conversation to the tribe.

Enjoy my conversation with Edward Burns.

Well I put out an episode back in 2019 putting my dream list of guests out into the universe and in the past four months I've been humbled to have some amazing filmmakers and screenwriters on the show. Incredibly one of those dream guests has made his way on the show today. 

We are joined by indie film icon and Oscar® nominated writer/director Richard Linklater. Richard was one of the filmmakers who helped to launch the independent film movement that we know today with his classic 1991 indie film Slacker. So today, we will not only dive into the extraordinary career of Richard Linklater but also that of collaborator and longtime friend writer/director Katie Cokinos.

If this is your introduction to Linklater and his work, here are a few highlights you must know; Linklater helped launch the 90s indie film renaissance with his film Slacker.

The producer, director has juggled the TV, film, short-film, and documentary genres seamlessly over his career - typically focusing in fine detail on generational rites and mores with rare compassion and understanding while definitively capturing the 20-something culture of his era through a series of nuanced, illuminating ensemble pieces which introduced any number of talented young actors into the Hollywood eco-system.

One of the talents to emerge from this era is the Texas native, Matthew McConaughey in Linklater’s third movie and VHS smash hit, Dazed and Confused. Based on Linklater’s years at Huntsville High School and the people he encountered there, the film shadows the adventures of high school and junior high students on the last day of school in May 1976.

Throughout his career Richard has chosen to tell stories about the human condition, while many times making us laugh and cry at the same time. I found an immense philosophical under current to most of his life's work. From The Before Trilogy to Boyhood, his films tackle topics in an honest, raw and deeper way that is not normally seen in filmmaking.

Many of the actors who work with Richard call him the "Zen Director" on set. His philosophy can be felt throughout his work. He often tells long and transformative coming of age stories over years, if not decades, something that is unique to him.

His Oscar® nominated film Boyhood is a groundbreaking story of growing up as seen through the eyes of a child named Mason (a breakthrough performance by Ellar Coltrane), who literally grows up on screen before our eyes. Starring Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette as Mason's parents and newcomer Lorelei Linklater as his sister Samantha, BOYHOOD charts the rocky terrain of childhood like no other film has before.

Snapshots of adolescence from road trips and family dinners to birthdays and graduations and all the moments in between become transcendent, set to a soundtrack spanning the years from Coldplay's Yellow to Arcade Fire's Deep Blue. BOYHOOD is both a nostalgic time capsule of the recent past and an ode to growing up and parenting. It's impossible to watch Mason and his family without thinking about our own journey.

Now the other remarkable filmmaker in this conversation is Katie Cokinos. She has made over ten short films and in 2000 wrote, directed, and acted in the feature film, Portrait of a Girl as a Young Catwhich premiered at SXSW.  Katie produced Eagle Pennell’s film, Heart Full of Soul (1990); was a publicist for Richard Linklater’s Slacker, (1990).  She was the Managing Director of the Austin Film Society, 1990-95.

Her latest film is the coming of age story I Dream Too Much, co-produced by Richard. Here's a bit about the film:

Presents a day in the life in Austin, Texas among its social outcasts and misfits, predominantly the twenty-something set, using a series of linear vignettes. These characters, who in some manner just don't fit into the establishment norms, move seamlessly from one scene to the next, randomly coming and going into one another's lives. Highlights include a UFO buff who adamantly insists that the U.S. has been on the moon since the 1950s, a woman who produces a glass slide purportedly of Madonna's pap smear, and an old anarchist who sympathetically shares his philosophy of life with a robber.

So much was covered in this EPIC 2 hours conversation. I need to stop here and let you dive in.

Enjoy my conversation with Richard Linklater and Katie Cokinos.

After working in the IFH labs for the first part of 2021 I can finally announce what it is. May I introduce Indie Film Hustle's FILMMAKER PROCESS.

Filmmaker Process offers comprehensive professional services for hire to help filmmakers and screenwriters, working at any budget level, get their film project to the finish line. I wanted to put the much needed services filmmaker need but rarely have access to all under one roof.

Filmmakers and screenwriters usually could only get access to these services if they "knew someone." Here are the services and products Filmmaker Process gives you access to:

- Pitch Decks
- Budget and Scheduling
- Domestic and International Sales Estimates
- Legal Contracts and Form Templates
- Indie Film Investor Package
- Consulting and Coaching
- Script Coverage
- Post Production Services
- Trailer Editing
- Poster, VOD and DVD/Blu-Ray Artwork
- Film Deliverables (Both Physical and Legal)
- Production Payroll

In this episode I go over what each service is and how you can use it to get your film project to the finish line.

For more info go to: www.filmmakerprocess.com

BRYCE FORTNER, CINEMATOGRAPHER (PART 1) – FILM TROOPER PODCAST Pulling from the archives of an older podcast, listen to the first part of my interview with the cinematographer for Portlandia, Bryce Fortner.  This was originally recorded on May 24, 2011 at Dots Cafe in SE Portland.  Although this podcast doesn’t reflect the new format of the Film…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, we pull the audio from the 2nd session of FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS, which is a Live Google Hangout on the Air session.  Join the Film Trooper G+ Community to participate in the Film Marketing Fridays.   I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!…

INDEPENDENT FILM MARKETING STRATEGIST, SHERI CANDLER ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode, I interview Digital Marketing Strategist, Sheri Candler.  Get the real skinny on what it’ll take to make an indie film successful in the marketplace.   I NEED YOUR LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW ON iTUNES!   Learn more about…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, we pull the audio from the 3rd session of FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS, which is a Live Google Hangout on the Air session.  Join the Film Trooper G+ Community to participate in the Film Marketing Fridays.   I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!  …

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST For this Film Marketing Friday, we’ll be looking at sales sheets … or for us Film Troopers … the movie poster! I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!   JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS GRAB THE PRESENTATION FILE…

FILM COURAGE, KAREN WORDEN & DAVID BRANIN ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview the team behind Film Courage (dot) com, Karen Worden and David Branin, as they share with me the behind the scenes look at their operation and give us insight of what the state of independent film is like…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST For this Film Marketing Friday, we’ll be looking at the next step after you’ve developed your sales sheets, I mean your movie poster … Now, what if someone asks you about your movie?  Do you have your pitch ready? I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST For this Film Marketing Friday, we’ll talk with Jeremy Brunson, one of the producers for the film, Rosetta: Audio/Visual, as he shares with us how they were able to succeed with their crowdfunding campaign. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!   ROSETTA:  AUDIO/VISUAL IndieGoGo Campaign…

FIZZLE CO-FOUNDER, CALEB WOJCIK ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview one of the Co-Founders of Fizzle.Co, an amazing resource for helping entrepreneurs going from nothing to being able to crackle and sparkle with success.  Caleb gives us his advice on how indie filmmakers can build a sustainable living selling their work online.…

GOOD IN A ROOM, STEPHANIE PALMER ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview former Director of Creative Affairs for MGM Studios, and now the founder of Good In A Room, Stephanie Palmer.  Stephanie teaches filmmakers and screenwriters how to prepare for any pitch meeting … and how to give yourself the best chances…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST For this Film Marketing Friday, I dig deeper into writing effective LOGLINES.  Why?  Because having a clear LOGLINE will help market and sell your idea to your audience … and believe it or not, reveal any flaws in your overall story. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW…

SEED & SPARK, FOUNDER & CEO, EMILY BEST ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode of the Film Trooper podcast, I interview the Founder & CEO of Seed & Spark, Emily Best.  Seed & Spark is much more than just a crowdfunding platform, it’s designed to be an ecosystem for independent filmmakers to build sustainable careers outside of…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST For this Film Marketing Friday, I have the pleasure of having a thoughtful discussion with filmmakers Jennifer Fischer of Think Ten Media Group and Patrick McBrearty, writer/director of the horror film THE DOOR.  We go over SALES COMPS and how you can use them for your film, but most importantly how…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this Film Marketing Friday, I explore the question of what happens if the foundation of indie film financing, the foreign pre-sale … implodes?  Along the way, a surprise Hangout guest all the way from Germany pops in to join the conversation. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN…

THE BITCH PACK, FOUNDER, THUC NGUYEN ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode of the Film Trooper podcast, I interview the Founder of The Bitch Pack, Thuc Nguyen.  Following up where the Bechdel Test leaves off, Thuc’s mission is to help change the representation of how women are portrayed in film … beginning with…

PRODUCER FOUNDRY, FOUNDER, BEN YENNIE ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I explore how a meeting with an Angel Investor might go for a filmmaker seeking investment funds with the Founder of the Producer Foundry, Ben Yennie.   Wait! Before you attend The American Film Market (AFM) … Be sure to pick up…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this Film Marketing Friday, I explore a unique way to maximize your chances of selling your film successfully on Amazon. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS GRAB THE PRESENTATION FILE IN THE PDF…

DIRECTOR, JEN McGOWAN ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview Jen McGowan, the Director of “Kelly & Cal”, a new independent film starring Juliette Lewis and released by IFC.  Listen in as Jen explains the long struggle from film school to releasing her first feature film at SXSW and winning the Gamechanger…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this Film Marketing Friday, I’ll be discussing the topic of how to effectively sell your film on the Amazon marketplace.  This is “Part Deux” in this topic discussion.  I’m joined by Dennis Waller, who is an author, speaker, and filmmaker who has been very successful at selling on Amazon and…

ACTOR/SCREENWRITER, BRAM HOOVER ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview Bram Hoover, who is an actor and screenwriter of the new film, 23 Blast.  Based on a true story, 23 Blast centers around high school football player, Travis Freeman, who tragically loses his sight from a rare infection.  Travis’s closet friend, Jerry Baker…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this Film Marketing Friday, I’ll illustrate how other indie filmmakers are properly using online marketing skills to sell their films … and the secret to what we really should be marketing. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! FILMMAKING and PHOTOGRAPHER GUEST:  DAVID MILLER   http://www.davidmillerphotoworks.com/…

ARTIST/VETERAN, KEVIN McMAHON ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, not only do I celebrate Veteran’s Day with my special guest, Kevin McMahon (my father), but this also marks the one-year anniversary of Film Trooper.   VoicesforVets.co  

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this Film Marketing Friday, I explore why über indie filmmakers should play the “value” game and not the “volume” game. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!   JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS   GRAB THE PRESENTATION FILE IN…

CO-FOUNDER of SIMPLIFILM, CHRIS JOHNSON ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview the Co-Founder of Simplifilm, Chris Johnson, as he gives some great poignant and direct feedback for filmmakers on how to never forget what they are worth.   Click here to check out Chris’s company:  SIMPLIFILM Are you stuck trying to…

THE FOUNDATION CO-FOUNDER, ANDY DRISH ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview the Co-Founder of The Foundation, Andy Drish, whose mission is to “Help people align with their deepest truth and create possibilities for their life from that place”.   Click here to check out the amazing work that Andy does over at:…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this Film Marketing Friday, I discuss “List Building” and why it’s so important for the success of your film. I NEED LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES!   JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS   GRAB THE PRESENTATION FILE IN THE PDF…

BLOOP ANIMATION FOUNDER, MORR MEROZ ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview a real Film Trooper.  All animator, Morr Meroz wants to do is to make animated films.  So, he built a business around Bloop Animation (dot) com to help share his process and to help share his films.   Click here to…

DIRECTOR/ENTREPRENEUR, DARWIN CARLISLE ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I interview the Founder of First Class Reels, Darwin Carlisle, who helps actors and business people make video reels that promote their genius.   Click here to check out Darwin’s company:  FIRST CLASS REELS Darwin Carlisle was featured on John Lee Dumas’s top rated business…

DIRECTOR OF SALES AT bitMAX, JAY FRIEDMAN ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this episode, I speak with Jay Friedman, Director of Sales from bitMAX, one of the top approved aggregators for iTunes, Amazon, Netflix, Hulu, Google Play, and many other digital distribution platforms.  Listen in as Jay reveals the biggest thing filmmakers should do…

BRYCE FORTNER, CINEMATOGRAPHER (PART 2) – FILM TROOPER PODCAST Continuing our conversation with the cinematographer for Portlandia, Bryce Fortner.  This was originally recorded on May 24, 2011 at Dots Cafe in SE Portland.  Although this podcast doesn’t reflect the new format of the Film Trooper Podcast show, there is still plenty of great content as Bryce and…

ADAM McMAHON, ART DIRECTOR OF FIREFALL ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode, I interview my brother, Adam McMahon, Art Director for the new video game FIREFALL.  Adam discusses the development of FIREFALL, the gaming industry as a whole, and the future of where games are going … and how does this tie in with…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this epic 2-hour session, Digital Marketer, Chris Reed and I answer your film marketing questions. I NEED YOUR LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS GRAB THE PRESENTATION FILE IN THE PDF FORMAT: Connect…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST  In this session, I tackle why some filmmakers may have objections to doing their own marketing and how to overcome this fear. I NEED YOUR LOVE … LEAVE A RATING AND REVIEW IN iTUNES! JOIN THE FILM TROOPER G+ COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS GRAB THE PRESENTATION…

SCREENWRITER, RANDALL JAHNSON ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST INTERVIEW PART 1 In this episode, the first of an in depth 4 part series, Scott interviews screenwriter, Randall Jahnson.  Writer of such films as The Doors and The Mask of Zorro.  Randall discusses his college days at UCLA and the plunge into the L.A. punk scene…

INDIE FILM ACADEMY FOUNDER, JASON BUFF ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this episode, I interview Indie Film Academy founder, Jason Buff and get his perspective on the state of independent film as he’s interviewed several prominent players in the industry today. Get more from Jason Buff over at Indie Film Academy:  http://www.indiefilmacademy.com/ Don’t go…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I explore several questions from guest filmmaker, Matt Garman, including how to work with a casting director, finding named stars, how often to promote, and at what price should you sell your film. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Download…

Indie Film Hustle, Alex Ferrari on the Film Trooper Podcast In this episode (Part 1 of 2), I interview, Alex Ferrari, founder of Indie Film Hustle, and filmmaker of the short film, “Broken”, which made $90,000 from DVD sales in 2006. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community http://www.indiefilmhustle.com/ Get Lipstick…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, I explore strategies for building a crowdfunding campaign with guest filmmaker and fellow podcaster, Jamie Francis. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Guest Filmmaker:  Jamie Francis Find Jamie’s film “The Wrong People” at this link >> Click Here Find Jamie’s podcast at this link…

Respect the Process, Jordan Brady on the Film Trooper Podcast In this episode, I interview commercial director, comedian, and fellow podcaster of “Respect the Process”, Jordan Brady. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Download Jordan’s documentary, I Am Road Comic at this link >>  I Am Road Comic Subscribe and listen…

Film Festival Secrets, Christopher Holland on the Film Trooper Podcast In this episode, I interview author of “Film Festival Secrets”, Christopher Holland. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Grab a copy of Chris’s book here >> Film Festival Secrets Don’t go away empty handed … Are you stuck trying to make your…

The Abundant Artist Coach, Cory Huff on the Film Trooper Podcast In this episode, I interview the founder of The Abundant Artist, Cory Huff, as he helps demystify the myth of the starving artist.  We use this framework to explore how it can be applied to the world of the independent filmmaker. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST In this session, my guests include, John Trigonis from IndieGoGo, Jeff Vogt from Imagination Media Studios, and Stephen Tucker from Immerss, as we discuss how to use live events to drive the marketing and funding for your film project. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS – FILM TROOPER PODCAST I have a return guest!  David Andrade from Theory Animation.  We discuss the latest infographic from ReferralCandy.com about how to get the word of mouth out for your film. Download Presentation Slides (PDF) Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Theory Animation Twitter Handle:…

Digital Marketing Expert, Annelise Larson on the Film Trooper Podcast In this episode, I interview Digital Marketing Expert, Annelise Larson, who focuses on helping the Storypeneur conquer the challenges of marketing their work in today’s digital landscape. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Sign up to take Annelise’s online course >> Becoming a…

Co-Founder, Smarthouse Creative, Brad Wilke - Podcast In this episode, I interview Program Director, Seattle International Film Festival, and Co-Founder of Smarthouse Creative, Brad Wilke ... as we chat about what it takes to build a sustainable career as an independent filmmaker. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Learn more about Brad…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS - PODCAST Today is a special session, all dedicated to stunt performers!  My guest is stunt performer and coordinator, Matt Covert. Download Presentation Slides (PDF) Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Find Matt Covert at: http://www.howtobecomearacecardriver.com/ International Stunt School: http://www.stuntschool.com/ Do you need VOD projection numbers for your next…

Dave Bullis - Podcast In this episode, I interview the host of the Dave Bullis Podcast, Dave himself.  Bullis has interviewed nearly 100 experts in the independent film world, and his perspective on the state of affairs of indie film is revealing. Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community Listen and Subscribe to…

FILM MARKETING FRIDAYS - PODCAST In this episode, I explore the 3 biggest pains that plague filmmakers and how we can fix them. Download Presentation Slides (PDF) Download the Ideal Fan Checklist Questionnaire (PDF) Subscribe with iTunes Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Join the G+ Community IT'S FILM TROOPER'S 100th PODCAST EPISODE! In celebration of the…

SCREENWRITER, RANDALL JAHNSON ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST INTERVIEW PART 2 In this episode, we continue our conversation with screenwriter, Randall Jahnson, as he talks about his first sold script, “Dudes”.  This is interview is taken from an older podcast, so it doesn’t reflect the eventual format of the Film Trooper Podcast … but it’s…

What is the future of filmmaking when it comes time to sell your film online? A short film involving a lightsaber duel reveals the secret. Learn more!

Patrick Moreau of StillMotion discusses the 4 Pillars of Story that help documentary filmmakers tell better stories.

In this episode, I speak with New Times Best Selling Author, Ian Doescher, about his books, "William Shakespeare's Star Wars".

In this episode, I speak with filmmaker and screenwriter, Brooks Elms, as he takes on his journey of selling his sci-fi, action script, "Snowfall".

SCREENWRITER, RANDALL JAHNSON ON THE FILM TROOPER PODCAST INTERVIEW PART 3 We continue our in depth conversation with screenwriter, Randall Jahnson, as he shares with us the rigorous process of writing the script for The Doors. GUEST LINK www.randalljahnson.com   RECORDING LOCALE Maher’s Irish Pub 352 B Ave. Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (503) 305-8087 www.maherspub.com

Rob Edwards, Screenwriter of Disney's "Treasure Planet" and "The Princess and the Frog", shares the secrets to Pixar's Brain Trust storytelling method.

Film Trooper Podcast - Driver X and the Art & Science of No Budget Filmmaking with Mark Stolaroff.

In this episode, filmmaker, Chris White, shares tips on how to become a local filmmaking hero.