The Filmumentaries Podcast (Jamie Benning)

In this episode of the Filmumentaries Podcast, I speak with Garrett Brown, the inventor of the Steadicam. We discuss Brown's early influences, his journey into invention, and the development of the Steadicam, which revolutionized filmmaking by allowing for stable handheld shots. Brown shares anecdotes from his career, including the challenges he faced and the impact of his invention on the film industry. The conversation also touches on the evolution of camera technology and the future of filmmaking. 

Three very different films and three completely difference applications of the steadicam.The steadicam of course is a camera stabilising system, with the stability of a conventional tripod mount but with the fluid motion of a dolly shot as well as the flexibility of hand-held camera work. Garrett’s incredible invention smoothly follows the operator's broad movements, while the the Steadicam's arm absorbs jerks, bumps, and shakes, while its almost frictionless gimbal gives precise control of the camera and framing.

It’s used on everything from film, light entertainment TV shows and just about every sport you can think of. Garrett won a special Academy Award for Science and Technology for his invention. Just to put this into perspective, winners include those responsible for colour film, Cinescope, IMAX, Avid. All seismic innovations in the industry.

Huge thanks to my friend and old colleague Patrick Van Weeran for putting me in touch with Garrett back in 2017 and providing me with some research literature that I wouldn’t have otherwise found. 

Steadicam Demo Reel


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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with VFX guru Craig Barron about his journey into the world of visual effects, starting from his childhood fascination with movies to his pivotal role at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). Craig shares insights into his experiences working on iconic films like Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back, discussing the artistic and technical challenges faced during production. He highlights the evolution of matte painting techniques and the collaborative environment at ILM, as well as the impact of George Lucas's vision on the industry. The conversation also touches on the transition from traditional effects to digital innovations in filmmaking.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I explore the historical and cultural significance of the Regent Street Cinema with Sara Varani. We discuss the cinema's rich history, its adaptation during the pandemic, and the unique experience it offers to audiences. The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between honoring the past and embracing future technologies in the cinema industry.

Regent Street Cinema

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Paul Franklin, a renowned visual effects supervisor at DNEG, about his journey into the world of visual effects, the founding of Double Negative, and his experiences working with acclaimed director Christopher Nolan. The conversation delves into the evolution of visual effects in filmmaking, the importance of collaboration among departments, and the artistry involved in creating compelling visual narratives. Franklin shares insights on maintaining creative ownership in a large team environment and the challenges of modern visual effects production.

The Escape 
TED Talk
Crystal Palace Film Festival


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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Lorne Peterson, a founding member of Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) and chief model maker for iconic films including the original Star Wars trilogy. Lorne shares his journey into the world of filmmaking, the innovations he brought to model making, and the collaborative environment at ILM that fostered creativity. He discusses the design process behind the models, the excitement of seeing his work on the big screen, and the lasting impact of his contributions to the Star Wars franchise. 


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In this episode of the Filmumentary podcast, I interview Joe Alves, the legendary production designer known for his work on iconic films like Jaws and Close Encounters. Joe shares his journey from a young artist to a prominent figure in the film industry, detailing his experiences in animation, live-action filmmaking, and the challenges faced during the production of Jaws. The conversation delves into the intricacies of set design, character development, and the innovative techniques used to bring the shark to life on screen. 


Joe has a book called “Joe Alves, Production Designer” it’s written by Dennis L Prince with a foreword by effects artist Greg Nicotero.You can buy it at Joe's site - here

Jaws - A Filmumentary - https://vimeo.com/68400837

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In this episode of the Filmumentary podcast, I speak with Gavin Rothery, director of 'Archive' and visual effects supervisor for Duncan Jones's 'Moon'. We discuss Gavin's early inspirations, his unconventional path into filmmaking, and the collaborative process behind Moon. Gavin shares insights on managing expectations in the creative industry, the importance of perseverance, and the emotional rollercoaster of filmmaking. The conversation also touches on the transition from Moon to Archive, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. 


Check out Archive on your favourite streaming service. Find the trailer here.

Archive on Blu Ray here.

And the Ivor Powell documentary I mentioned in the outro is available here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Patrick McClung, a veteran in the visual effects industry known for his work on iconic films such as Star Wars, Blade Runner, and Ghostbusters. Patrick shares his journey into the world of miniature effects, detailing his early interests, experiences in the military, and eventual entry into the film industry. He discusses the evolution of visual effects, the collaborative nature of filmmaking, and the unique challenges faced during production. The conversation highlights Patrick's passion for building and creating, as well as his insights into the changing landscape of visual effects in cinema. 

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview Ivor Powell, a prominent producer and writer known for his work on iconic films such as 2001: A Space Odyssey, Alien, and Blade Runner. The conversation delves into Powell's early career, his experiences working with legendary directors like Stanley Kubrick and Ridley Scott, and the creative processes behind some of the most influential films in cinema history. Powell shares insights on the importance of luck in the film industry, the challenges of budgeting for major productions, and the lasting impact of films like Alien and Blade Runner on the genre.


The video version of part 1 of my chat with Ivor can be found here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Madeleine Most, a second assistant camera on iconic films like The Empire Strikes Back. Madeleine shares her unique experiences as a woman in the male-dominated film industry of the 70s and 80s, discussing her journey into filmmaking, the challenges she faced on set, and the importance of women's roles in film production. The conversation highlights the dynamics of working on major film sets, the camaraderie among cast and crew, and the evolution of gender representation in the industry. 


Hearing the point of view of a woman who worked in a sexist industry at a time when representations of women were typically what we might now call problematic is part of the education I wanted for myself in doing this podcast. These aren’t the stories that are widely told and they are important. Madelyn's partner director Peter Macdonald is my guest on episode 24 coming later this month (April 2021)

Robert Watts - A Life in Film - here.
Women Behind the Camera - here.
Director Peter Macdonald - here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview director Peter McDonald, who shares his journey into the film industry, his experiences working with legendary actors and directors, and the challenges he faced while directing. McDonald reflects on his career highlights, the importance of collaboration, and the lessons learned from both good and difficult experiences in filmmaking. The discussion also delves into the magic of the Harry Potter films and concludes with McDonald's reflections on his career and the evolution of filmmaking.


Check out Peter's extensive list of work on IMDB - here.
Also a nice article about Peter on the British Cinematrorapher site -  here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with film journalist and author Helen O'Hara about her book 'Women vs Hollywood: The Fall and Rise of Women in Film.' We discuss Helen's journey into film journalism, the historical context of women's roles in the film industry, the challenges they face, and the misconceptions surrounding gender equality in Hollywood. The conversation also touches on cultural reflections within fandoms and the backlash against diversity in film. Finally, the conversation addresses the need for better representation of young audiences in film, particularly for teenage girls. 


Helen's book can be purchased here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with digital matte artist, Jim Maxwell about his journey in the film industry, the evolution of matte painting from traditional techniques to digital methods, and his experiences working at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). We discuss the importance of photo reference in creating realistic matte paintings, the challenges of working in high-resolution formats, and Jim's memorable encounter with George Lucas. The discussion also touches on the role of art departments in filmmaking and the balance between concept art and final renderings.


You can follow him  @1jcmaxwell
Here's Jim's IMDB page - here.
And details of his Emmy Award and nominations - here.

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AS A THANK YOU THIS IS A BONUS EPISODE AND NOT CHARGED TO PATRONS ON PATREON. 

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview filmmaker John Lefkowitz about his documentary on Walter Murch, a renowned editor and sound designer. We discuss Murch's philosophical approach to cinema, the art of editing, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking. The conversation delves into personal experiences with editing, sound design's impact on storytelling, and the importance of the editor in shaping a film's narrative.  The conversation also touches on the personal experiences of Walter Murch and the significance of human intuition in the editing process.


Sight & Sound: The Cinema of Walter Murch can be watched for FREE - here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Roger Christian, the set decorator for Star Wars and art director for Alien. We discuss Christian's early inspirations, his journey into the film industry, and the pivotal moments that led him to work on Star Wars. Christian shares insights into the creative process behind the film, the challenges faced on set, and the innovative solutions that emerged from a tight budget. He also reflects on the importance of collaboration within the art department and the legacy of the iconic props he helped create, including Luke's lightsaber. Christian also shares insights into his return to the Star Wars universe for The Phantom Menace and reflects on the future of the franchise, including his upcoming documentary and book.


Black Angel (1980) - here.
Cinema Alchemist Book - here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Dan Perry, a legendary title designer known for his work on iconic films such as Star Wars and The Exorcist. We discuss Perry's journey into the world of title design, the evolution of the craft, and the collaborative process involved in creating memorable title sequences. Perry shares insights into the emotional and technical aspects of his work, as well as the influence of directors and the importance of titles in setting the tone for films. The conversation emphasizes the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the significance of giving back to the next generation of creatives.


Dan's Site - here.
Dan's Book - here.
Here's my favourite example of Dan's work - Taxi Driver - here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with film legend Walter Murch, exploring his journey in sound design and editing. Murch shares insights from his early fascination with audio, his experiences in film school during the Vietnam War, and his influential work on iconic films like The Godfather and American Graffiti. The conversation delves into the creative processes behind sound design, the impact of global cinema, and the evolution of editing techniques, providing a rich understanding of Murch's contributions to the film industry. He also discusses his experiences working on iconic films like Apocalypse Now and Coup 53, and reflects on the evolution of filmmaking techniques. Murch also touches on his upcoming book, which expands on his previous work, In the Blink of an Eye, to include a broader range of filmmaking topics.


In the Blink of an Eye - By Walter Murch - here.
The Conversations: Walter Murch and the Art of Editing Film - here.

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After chatting with Walter for Episode 30 he asked me if I was happy with what I'd got. I replied saying I wish I had asked him about Return to Oz. He kindly offered another 45 minutes on the subject, so we went ahead the following Monday and chatted for almost an hour about his directorial debut.  Murch shares insights into Disney's changing approach in the 1980s, his personal connection to the Oz books, and the darker tone of his film compared to the original Wizard of Oz. The discussion also touches on the film's reception, the challenges faced during production, and the cultural impact of Return to Oz, particularly regarding its female protagonist and visual storytelling.

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Back in June 2021 I had the pleasure of speaking to prolific playwright, film writer and director John Patrick Shanley. Thanks to former guest Jim Maxwell (digital matte artist) for putting me in touch with John. 

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with acclaimed writer and director John Patrick Shanley. We explore Shanley's creative journey, from his early days of writing poetry to his successful career in theatre and film. Shanley shares insights on the importance of mentorship, the challenges of navigating success and failure, and the collaborative nature of storytelling in both mediums. He reflects on his experiences with boredom as a catalyst for creativity, the impact of success on future projects, and the significance of character development in his works. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt reflection on winning an Oscar and the importance of allowing oneself to embrace joy and success. Shanley also delves into the challenges of directing and editing, as well as his upcoming projects, including a new film and a play.

John's Moonstruck Oscar speech - here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Oscar-winning sound designer Gary Rydstrom, known for his work on iconic films such as Jurassic Park and Saving Private Ryan. Rydstrom shares his journey into the film industry, influenced by silent films and the groundbreaking sound design of the 1970s. He discusses his experiences at Lucasfilm, the evolution of sound design, and the collaborative process with directors like Steven Spielberg and James Cameron. The conversation highlights the importance of sound in film and the creative techniques used to evoke emotions in audiences.



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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Gabriel Hardman, a comic book artist and storyboard artist. We discuss Gabriel's artistic journey, influences, and the importance of storytelling in both comics and film. Gabriel shares insights on the role of mentorship in his career, the value of comics in the film industry, and the significance of framing and emotion in visual storytelling. The conversation also touches on the art of minimalism in storytelling, the filmmaking process, and the role of storyboards in creating impactful films.


Now Gabriel and I got in touch over Twitter, thanks to good guy Duncan Fegredo. I didn't actually know much about Gabriel, but after some  searching online I found that I was in fact aware of some of his work. He's a comic book artist and writer. And he’s also a very sought after storyboard artist. It was lovely talking to him. 

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview Colin Goudie, a veteran film editor known for his work on 'Monsters' and 'Rogue One'. We discuss Goudie's journey from his early education in photography to his extensive career at the BBC and his transition to freelance editing. Colin shares valuable insights about the editing process, the importance of training, and the evolution of editing technology, particularly the differences between Lightworks and Avid. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of being an editor in the film industry.  As well as Monsters and Rogue One, Colin has more recently edited 'To Olivia' and 'The Show'. Both worth checking out. 'To Olivia', a Sky Original film, available on Sky Cinema and Now TV from 19th February 2021


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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview editor Sean Barton, who shares his journey into the film industry, his experiences working on iconic films like Quadrophenia and Return of the Jedi, and his insights into the evolution of film editing from traditional methods to digital techniques. The conversation explores the impact of editing on performances and the challenges faced by editors in the modern film landscape. Barton reflects on his work on iconic films like Jagged Edge, revealing insights into the editing process, the challenges of working with directors and actors, and the emotional weight of making tough editing decisions. We also discuss the nuances of performance in film, the impact of editing choices on storytelling, and the cultural differences in editing styles between American and British editors. Barton shares his experiences with various editing software and expresses a desire to work on a Western film.


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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the intricate sound design of the film Dune with sound designers Mark Mangini and Theo Green. We explore the importance of sound in creating immersive cinematic experiences, the collaborative process between sound and visual effects, and the innovative techniques used to develop unique sounds for the film. The conversation highlights the significance of engaging sound designers early in the filmmaking process and how sound can enhance storytelling. The discussion highlights specific sound design choices, such as the creation of the Ornithopter's sound and the subtlety of the Hunter Seeker's audio, as well as the broader implications of sound design in the film industry.


Just so you know, Mark is the American voice, Theo is the British voice. We did have some technical difficulties at the beginning, which I’ve left in, because if I cut it out it wouldn’t make much sense as we refer back to it a couple of times later on in the conversation.

Huge thanks to Mark and Theo as well as Emilie Erskine of Erskine PR who organised the interview and was able to provide me with those wonderful sound clips from Dune (2021).

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview renowned producer Howard Kazanjian, known for his work on iconic films such as Raiders of the Lost Ark and Return of the Jedi. The conversation delves into Howard's early career, the evolution of the studio system, and his collaboration with George Lucas. Howard shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of major productions, the importance of teamwork in filmmaking, and his reflections on the industry. He emphasizes the significance of preserving film history and the lessons learned throughout his career, making this episode a valuable resource for aspiring filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike.


Howard Kazanjian - A Producer's Life is now available in bookstores - find it here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I'm joined by guests Frank Pavich, Dan Lanigan, and Soby, we discuss the fascinating story of Alejandro Jodorowsky's Dune and the recent auction of its pitch book, which sold for $3 million. We also explore the cultural significance of the pitch book, the impact of community involvement in the auction, and the broader implications of art ownership in the digital age. The conversation delves into the intersection of art, value, and community, highlighting the importance of storytelling and the role of collectors in preserving cultural artifacts. 

What is a DAO
What is crypto currency
What is blockchain
What is the Dunning Kruger effect

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Welcome to episode 40 of The Filmumentaries Podcast.Now I am a lover of movie books. I own a lot of them. I have owned more than I now have. Some favourites include Alan Arnold’s Once Upon a Galaxy - The Making of The Empire Strikes Back, Paul Sammon’s Future Noir - The making of Blade Runner, Steven Bach’s – Final Cut. So many to name. But what I didn’t know, I am embarrassed to say, that I had no idea about fellow Brit author Jay Glennie’s books on The Deer Hunter, Raging Bull and Trainspotting until pretty recently. A kind twitter follower mentioned Jay and his books. Immediately I could see that Jay had a great eye for the huge stills that are included within his books, but also that there was a clear and engaging narrative throughout.

In late November 2021 Jay and I spoke over Zoom.

Coattail Publications

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Bonus episode.I released episode 40 today. My conversation with author John Glennie. But as it's close to Christmas, I thought "what the heck"... lets put out episode 41 too.Both are with authors of great movie books that you should be adding to your Christmas list.So, here's my chat with author John Walsh about his new book Escape from New York The Official Story of the Film, available now!

Twitter - @walshbros
Book on Amazon
Book at Waterstones

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My friend and colleague Jason Henry, director of Disney+'s Prop Culture, suggested that he should interview me for my own podcast. A "getting to know Jamie Benning episode" he said. The day before we were due to record, Jason suggested our mutual friend and presenter of Prop Culture, Dan Lanigan should host the interview. So here is Dan Lanigan, presenter, producer, prop collector turning the tables by interviewing ME, Jamie Benning. 

We discuss my journey in creating filmumentaries, a unique blend of films and documentaries that provide behind-the-scenes insights into beloved movies. I share the challenges I've faced, including copyright issues and the evolution of my work into podcasting. I share stories of unexpected opportunities in Hollywood, including a meeting with Brett Ratner, and the challenges I faced in getting projects off the ground. 


Merry Christmas / Happy Holidays to you all. And thanks for the continued support.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I welcome director John Spira, known for his documentary 'Elstree 1976'. The conversation explores John's journey into filmmaking, the impact of film school, and his transition into documentary work. We discuss the making of 'Elstree 1976', audience reception, and the importance of preserving stories from those on the fringes of the film industry. John shares insights on the unique perspectives of lesser-known figures in cinema, emphasizing the value of their narratives in understanding the broader cultural context. 


Since making Elstree 1976, Jon has most recently made Hollywood Bulldogs Hollywood Bulldogs: The Rise and Falls of the Great British Stuntman which is currently on Britbox here in the UK. I really enjoyed listening to the stories of this unconventional group of men who worked on some of the biggest films in movie history.

Hollywood Bulldogs Trailer
Elstree 1976 Trailer

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I engage in a deep conversation with documentary director Frank Pavich. We explore Frank's journey into filmmaking, his experiences in film school, and the evolution of his career, particularly focusing on his acclaimed documentary 'Jodorowsky's Dune.' The discussion highlights the challenges and triumphs of documentary filmmaking, the importance of collaboration, and the unexpected reunions that can occur in the creative process.  


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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I celebrate the 50th episode milestone with the second part of a conversation with Lorne Peterson, a former model maker at ILM, discussing the evolution of model making and special effects in film, the impact of CGI, and the challenges faced during the transition to digital effects. The conversation highlights key moments in film history, the collaborative nature of filmmaking, and the creative processes behind iconic movie scenes. Lorne shares behind-the-scenes stories about the Millennium Falcon's design, the challenges of creating realistic explosions, and reflects on his proudest moments in the industry.



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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Michael Pangrazio, a renowned matte painter and art director known for his work on iconic films such as Raiders of the Lost Ark and Star Wars. The conversation delves into Pangrazio's journey into the world of matte painting, his experiences at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and the creative processes behind some of the most memorable shots in film history. Pangrazio reflects on the evolution of visual effects, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of social media on his legacy.

Michael is now based in Australia working with Peter Jackson’s Weta in New Zealand for some 15 years. 

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Justin Berger, author of 'The Empire Strikes Back, Unauthorized Timeline, 1975-2020.' We discuss Justin's lifelong love for Star Wars, the inspiration behind his timeline book, and the announcement of a new project focusing on 'Return of the Jedi.' The conversation highlights the importance of preserving film history and the contributions of fans in documenting the legacy of Star Wars.

Justin Berger is the author of The Empire Strikes Back Unauthorized Timeline 1975 - 2020. It’s a reference book that catalogues all the major and minor dates surrounding the inception, pre production, production and aftermath of The Empire Strikes Back.

During this episode Justin and I have an announcement, the title and thumbnail to this episode was a big hint…

https://jeditimeline.com
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Empire-Strikes-Back-Unauthorized-Timeline/dp/1095497197

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with documentary director John Spira about his new series, Real Britannia, which explores the history of British cinema. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of creating the series, the importance of uncovering lesser-known films, and the role of humor in documentary filmmaking. John shares insights into the filmmaking process, the significance of British cinema, and the educational impact of the series on audiences.

Britbox.com
Elstree 1976
Hollywood Bulldogs

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with T Dan Hofstedt, a talented animator who has worked on major Disney projects such as Aladdin, The Lion King, and Mulan. Tidan shares his journey into animation, influenced by his father's work at Disneyland and his early exposure to the art form. He discusses his education at CalArts, his first job at Hanna Barbera, and his experiences working with renowned animators like John Pomeroy. The conversation delves into the intricacies of animation, the importance of weight and balance in character movement, and the evolution of the animation industry. 

My mic recording got somehow trashed so what you’ll hear is the recording of my mic through Zoom, rather than on my normally separate recording. But hopefully it won’t make a big difference.


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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview film composer Daniel Pemberton, who shares his journey from a young music enthusiast to a sought-after composer in the film industry. The conversation explores Pemberton's early influences, his transition from television to film, and the challenges of scoring for established directors like Guy Ritchie. Pemberton emphasizes the importance of creativity, limitations, and the impact of industry changes on his career. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of film music and the need for composers to push creative boundaries while navigating the demands of the filmmaking process.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Gino Acevedo, a renowned makeup and special effects artist known for his work on films like Lord of the Rings and Alien 3. Gino shares his journey from a childhood fascination with monster movies to becoming a professional in the film industry. He discusses his early inspirations, the pivotal moments that led him to pursue a career in special effects, and his experiences working on iconic films. Gino's insights into the evolution of makeup effects and the importance of mentorship in the industry provide a captivating look into the world of film production.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with writer and executive producer David Mandel, known for his work on iconic comedies like Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Veep. The conversation explores Mandel's early influences, his transition from television to film, the differences in production between the two mediums, and the importance of ensemble casts in comedy. We also delve into the themes of absurdist humor and the creative process behind writing for television and film. Mandel discusses the balance between humor and storytelling in his work, the significance of age in experiencing Star Wars, and the thrill of the hunt in collecting. 

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Thanks to both David Mandel and Jim Maxwell for being great!

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with filmmaker Alexandre Poncet about his journey in documentary filmmaking, particularly focusing on the behind-the-scenes stories of iconic figures in the film industry. We discuss the challenges and insights of producing documentaries, the importance of narrative structure, and the art of editing. Poncet shares his experiences working on documentaries about Ray Harryhausen and Phil Tippett, emphasizing the personal connections and creative processes involved in filmmaking. 

The Phil Tippett book - here.
The documentaries - here.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Ryan Condal, the writer and showrunner of HBO's House of the Dragon. We discuss Ryan's journey from being a fan of film to becoming a successful screenwriter and showrunner, the impact of iconic films like Star Wars on his career, and the hard work and resilience required in the film industry. Ryan shares insights into the role of a showrunner, the complexities of shooting a series, and the importance of storytelling in filmmaking. He delves into the challenges of non-sequential filming, the use of volume technology, and the importance of practical locations. 

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the evolution of film history with author John Walsh, focusing on his latest book about the Doctor Who films starring Peter Cushing. We explore the significance of these films in the context of the Doctor Who franchise, the challenges of adapting television to film, and the changing perceptions of these works over time. The conversation also touches on the resurgence of physical media in an age dominated by streaming services and the excitement of uncovering lost artifacts in film history. 

vimeo.com/filmumentaries

https://uk.bookshop.org/books/escape-from-new-york-the-official-story-of-the-film/9781789096217

 https://titanbooks.com/70944-dr-who-the-daleks-the-official-story-of-the-films/

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Jim Bloom, an ex-ILM and Lucasfilm producer. We discuss Jim's early career in film, his experiences working on iconic films like American Graffiti and The Conversation, and his collaboration with renowned directors such as George Lucas and Francis Coppola. Jim shares insights into the filmmaking process, the challenges of working in the industry, and the importance of personal connections in building a career in film. 

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the upcoming Kickstarter for a documentary on production designer Joe Alves, who has an extensive career in Hollywood. The conversation transitions to insights from producer Jim Bloom, who shares his experiences in film production, including the challenges of moving Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) to Northern California, the intricacies of long-distance production, and the evolution of visual effects. Bloom also recounts his cameo as Luke Skywalker in The Empire Strikes Back and the challenges faced during the production of Return of the Jedi.

Check out the following link if you're interested in supporting the Joe Alves documentary project on Kickstarter - https://www.backerkit.com/call_to_action/1d3f98a4-6576-46f0-9585-6c9fc45ab7e5/landing

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I  interview VFX legend Dennis Murin, who shares his childhood inspirations, early experiments in filmmaking, and insights into the evolution of visual effects. The discussion highlights the challenges of entering the film industry, the impact of technology on filmmaking, and the creative approaches that define the art of cinema. Dennis reflects on the integration of live action and effects, the importance of understanding audience perspective, and the need for seamless effects that enhance storytelling. 

Here's the link to our "Not Your Average Joe" Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jamiebenning/not-your-average-joe-0

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I engage in a deep conversation with VFX artist Steve Williams and director Scott Lieberich about the groundbreaking work behind Jurassic Park and the documentary 'Jurassic Punk.' We explore the challenges faced in the visual effects industry, the personal struggles of artists, and the evolution of storytelling in modern cinema. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing individual contributions in collaborative environments and the impact of technological advancements on filmmaking.


So here’s my conversation with Steve Williams (VFX artist) and Scott Leberecht (the director of the new documentary Jurassic Punk). - https://www.jurassicpunkmovie.com/

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the journey of Rose Degnan, a key figure in the visual effects industry, particularly her experiences at ILM during the production of Star Wars. The conversation covers her entry into filmmaking, the evolution of visual effects, the work culture at ILM, and the balance between personal life and a demanding career. Rose shares insights on the importance of appreciation in the workplace and the transition from practical effects to digital technology. She also shares her experiences in the film industry, discussing the balance between quality and efficiency in filmmaking, the importance of mentorship, particularly for women in a male-dominated field, and her reflections on working with George Lucas. She highlights the complexities of visual effects in Star Wars, the evolution of budgeting and production practices, and the need for greater diversity in the industry. 

Thanks for joining me in 2022 and I hope you can do so again for the next year of episodes of The Filmumentaries podcast in 2023! Happy New Year.


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For episode 66, I have an Oscar winning director. But I don’t talk to him about his films at all. Instead I talk to him about a book he’s written. Lee Unkrich is probably best known by film fans as the director of Toy Story 3 and Coco. He of course won an Oscar for both of those movies. What you might not know is that he is a lifelong fan of Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. For many years he has run a website “the overlook hotel”, which he fills with everything and anything he can about his favourite film.

After ten years or so in the making, he is just about to release his book, published by Taschen and limited to 1000 copies (in the collector edition at least). It’s called Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. I spoke to Lee just after Christmas 2022. So here’s our conversation. I hope you enjoy it.

Taschen's new "Stanley Kubrick's The Shining"

For this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with the ultra talented and lovely human being… Jean Bolte, that’s BoltE, rhymes with Nick Nolte as she told me.

Jean has worked in the film industry for many years. She started in wigs and beard, then moved to ILM in time for Willow for which she was a model maker. The thumbnail for the episode shows Jean working on the ostrich for the famous morphing scene.

She then went to work on Hook, Jumanji, Men in Black, The Phantom Menace and so many more huge movies as a digital texture artist.

She’s recently handed in her notice to ILM but is going to be staying very much in the creative world.

Jean was just so great to talk to, we hit it off immediately. Chatting with her was surprisingly relaxing and also very inspiring.

So here’s my conversation with texture artist and supervisor Jean Bolte... Nick Notle and I’ll be back at the end for a bit more jabbering on.

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For this episode, number 68 I spoke with an animator at ILM, namely Hal Hickel. Now, if you’re on twitter you’ll know that Hal is a prolific tweeter. I’ve had a number of conversations with him online. Recently in one conversation it transpired that Hal had done some of the work on the 2004 version of Star Wars (A new hope), particularly on the redone Jabba scene. A redo of the 1997 special edition release. My friend Drew of Star Wars Visual Comparisons.

So I decided to approach Hal to come on the podcast and talk about that scene as well as many of the films he’s worked on over the years. Looking at my notes here for the keywords I’ll add to the podcast, we talk about Toy Story, Jurassic Park, Rogue One, The Life Aquatic and many more in between.

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For this episode, number 69 I spoke with ILM and Sony Picture Imageworks legend Ken Ralston.

Ken started on VFX in advertising, then in 1976 he was employed to work on a little film called Star Wars. He remained at ILM for 20 years having worked on Star Wars, Star Trek, Dragon Slayer, Back to the Future, I mean the list is huge. He then went on to work as Visual Effect Supervisor and Creative Head at Sony Pictures Imageworks. He’s won five academy awards during his career.

If you know who Ken is, you’ll love this conversation. If you don’t know who Ken is, firstly WHY? But secondly, you’ll definitely know his work.

He of course recently featured in the Disney+ Lawrence Kasdan documentary series Light and Magic. But as ever I am keen to dig a little deeper. I hope you enjoy our conversation.

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For this episode, number 70, I finally spoke with director Patrick Read Johnson.

He recently released his many years in the making, labour of love 5-25-77.

A film that semi fictionalises and chronicles the early life of a character, named Patrick Read Johnson and his love of movies like 2001 A Space Oddysey, Star Wars and Close Encounters.

I saw an early cut of this about ten years ago with several scenes missing. Patrick and I connected over the release of my Star Wars Begins (still available to view for free on Vimeo by the way).

5-25-77 is currently available on blu ray and on several streaming platforms.

So here’s my chat with the director of 5-25-77, Patrick Reid Johnson and I’ll be back at the end for a bit more jabbering on.

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So for this episode I spoke with Van Ling. A name you may recognise. Perhaps for his work on laserdisc, DVD and blu ray, perhaps for his collaborations with James Cameron on The Abyss and Terminator 2 (you’ll love the story of how he got started with Cameron), or maybe for his time working on VFX at Banned From The Ranch Entertainment on films like Dante’s Peak or The Relic. Either way you’ll find his eclectic career fascinating.
I spoke with Van just before our trip to LA. We were hoping to meet up for lunch while we were out there but the schedule was too tight. Maybe next time Van.

So here is my interview with Van Ling, disc creator, VFX supervisor, director…


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Welcome to this DVD extra type episode.

Here is my conversation with Van Ling, the guest on episode 71, talking about his time at the fabled Banned From The Ranch Entertainment.

I hope you enjoy this little extra bonus episode.

Episode 73

If you remember, I interviewed House of the Dragon writer and showrunner, Ryan Condal back in September 2022, episode 59 I think. Well he and I have become friends and we chat quite a bit on Whatsapp. He suggested I speak to his Special Effects Supervisor on Dragon, Michael Dawson. “He’s been in the industry since Superman in the late 70’s. He’s a great guy and would be perfect for your podcast”.

So, a couple of weeks ago I did indeed have a great chat with Mike. He not only worked on Superman, but also on the three original Indiana Jones films, Return of the Jedi, Return to Oz, Alien 3, Patriot Games, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and so many more! We didn’t get the chance to talk about all of them but we did have a great conversation about his job and his 45 plus years working in special effects.

So here’s my chat with Special Effect Supervisor Michael Dawson.

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For this episode of the podcast, number 74, I spoke with VFX artist, expert, VFX twitter ambassador and all round good guy Todd Vaziri.

Todd began his career right out of college and worked on shows like Charmed and Xena Warrior Princess for Flat Earth productions before moving to among others, Banned from the Ranch before landing at ILM for Attack of the Clones.

Since then he’s worked on just about every ILM tentpole movie.

So here is my conversation with ILM VFX artist Todd Vaziri. I hope you enjoy it.

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The Man Who Shot Luke Skywalker

For this episode, number 75, I spoke with filmmaker and optical VFX expert Peter Kuran. Peter was one of the few people employed by George Lucas on Star Wars and became a core crew member at Industrial Light and Magic.

He went on to have a long career in VFX and then became a director in his own right.

I should point out that we had internet problems so some of the recording is garbled or lost. I’ve edited around it in places and left it in in other places so you know that there was a piece missing. Apologies. We never found out if it was my connection or Peter’s.

I hope you enjoy the conversation.

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This is a BONUS episode for May 2023.

This is my conversation with editor Michael Harte about his new film "Still: A Michael J Fox Movie", which is out today in cinemas and on Apple TV.

Listen out for some exclusive clips of the film during our conversation.

I hope you enjoy it.
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#AppleOriginals #STILL

Ok so for this episode, number 77 (cool number) I have a guest host in the shape of my co-author on the new Return of the Jedi Unauthorized timeline book, Justin Berger.

So the conversation you’re about to hear is our interview with Jedi’s co-producer Jim Bloom about his time working on the film. We are so happy to say that he also wrote a wonderful introduction for the book.

So today, 25th May, was supposed to be the release day of the book. Unfortunately Amazon let us down and we’ve had to delay until June 1st (jeditimeline.com) Basically our proof copies which should have arrived in a matter of a couple of days, didn’t arrive until too late. We didn’t want to put the book up for sale without having handled it ourselves to make sure everything is in order. Better to get this done properly than quickly. And in fact a couple of things have come to light since we decided to delay which are going to make this a better book anyway.

There will be three versions of the book. The contents are the same in each but we have three versions to suit all pockets. The first is the colour hardback. The second is the colour softcover and thirdly there's a version with a colour softcover with black and white pages. That’s the cheapest of the bunch. If you can afford it, why not buy yourself a hardback cover one to keep and treasure and a softcover one to flick through at your leisure?

So here’s our conversation with Jim Bloom. Justin’s internet died a couple of times so he doesn’t say a huge amount, but what he does say is great. Thanks to both of these gents for their time.

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For this episode, number 78, I spoke to composer Stu Phillips.

Stu was born in 1929, is an American composer of film scores and television series theme music, He’s also a conductor and record producer. Though he is probably best known for composing the theme tunes to the television series Battlestar Galactica and Knight Rider.

After a career spanning decades, in 2002, he published his autobiography Stu Who?: Forty Years of Navigating the Minefields of the Music Business. It's well worth checking out.

Stu and I had tried to arrange a chat for months. I was unwell at one point, then I had some internet problems, then his phone line went down. But we finally managed to do it in May this year (2023).
I have to say it was a genuine pleasure chatting to Stu. And as you’ll hear, he is as sharp as a tack at 93 years old.

At one point in the conversation Stu and I talk about how artists borrow from each other all the time. Hang around at the end of this episode to hear what I found out after a deep dive into one particular track of Stu’s.

As with my conversation with Peter Kuran (episode 75), I was having internet problems at the time, so there are a couple of drop outs. Some I’ve managed to edit around, others I haven’t so if you hear any little jumps in the conversation, that’s why.

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Stu's Book

My conversation today is with long time Lucasfilm film employee Miki Herman. She was engaged at Lucasfilm during the production of Star Wars and stayed long enough to work on the Ewok and Droids cartoons.

She worked on the original Star Wars trilogy as production assistant, production coordinator and unit production manager, respectively. She was later a consultant for The Star Wars Holiday Special and became co-executive producer of the Star Wars Droids and Ewoks animated series.

Now, I always feel like I make a connection with my interviewees and Miki is no exception. She was smiling and occasionally laughing. But something seemed a little off. I’m not sure if my connection was delayed to her or something else was going on. But sometimes Miki's answers were quite short.

So, todays conversation as I mentioned, is a little shorter than usual. But still worth your time.

Big thanks for Miki for her time.

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For this episode, the first of July 2023, I spoke with Special Effects Supervisor Richard Van Den Bergh.

I met Richard when he was one of the panellists on the Andor SFX/VFX panel at Star Wars Celebration in May this year.

Richard is clearly an expert of his craft, whether it’s model making, making atmospherics or supervising. He’s had some much experience from starting in the industry on Ridley Scott's Legend, to his most recent work on Andor for which he was nominated for a Bafta.

I hope you enjoy our conversations.

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For this episode, the second of July 2023, I spoke with Puppet Film Director and Creature Effects Artist Kevin McTurk. Kevin and I first connected on Facebook a couple of years ago, maybe it was more than that. We’ve been trying to find a suitable time to have him on the podcast since then.

Well now is the time as Kevin has a project on Kickstarter as we speak. Kevin directs these amazing short films using puppetry and wonderfully atmospheric effects.

He’s a veteran of creature effects in movies like Batman Returns, Jurassic Park, Galaxy Quest and King Kong. However, he is, as I said also a director of these amazing short films. He started with The Narrative of Victor Karloch a victorian ghost story. Then there was The Mill at Caulder’s End in a similar vein. The one that I first spotted was his third film “The Haunted Swordsman”. It’s quite extraordinary. You’ll hear us talk about it in the interview.

Kevin’s latest project which is currently on Kickstarter is “Grylu Sker” an Icelandic folklore story. As of 25 July it has 18 days to go and is 75% funded. Do check it out.

During the interview Kevin’s connection went a few times. So when I was editing the podcast I got back in touch with Kevin to help me fill in the gaps. So you’ll hear me a couple of times, just clarifying what Kevin was saying. It shouldn’t be too distracting.

So here’s my interview with Puppet Film Director and Creature Effects Artist Kevin McTurk. I hope you enjoy it.

Grylu Sker - Kickstarter
The Spirit Cabinet

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Welcome to this special episode of the Filmumentaries Podcast. Episode 82 in fact.

Today is a small diversion from the usual. Rather than film history, I have three guests who are very much part of the film now, or TV now. These three gentlemen are at the forefront of VFX on Disney+’s Emmy award nominated show, Andor. Genuinely one of my favourite shows for a long time. So for this month, August 2023, there will be three episodes, all conversations with ILM VFX and Skywalker sound artists and technicians in celebration of their Emmy nominations.

Now if you are a regular listener to this podcast you’ll know that I hosted a panel at Star Wars celebration here in London back in May - I mention it to literally anyone that’ll listen. HAHA. On that panel were VFX experts Mohen Leo, TJ Falls and Scott Pritchard as well as special effects supervisor Richard Van Den Bergh. Now due to a complication backstage the panel was not recorded save for a few snippets that the ILM team shot.

So I dedicated a whole episode to Richard Van Den Bergh about his career in special effects. That was episode 80 . And while not an episode specifically about Andor, we did talk about the show a little. (do check it out)

Then very recently ILM got in touch and asked if I’d like to interview the three VFX guys on the podcast. They along with Richard have been nominated in the category of Outstanding Special Visual Effects In A Season Or A Movie. I immediately said yes and within 24 hours I was chatting with these wonderful artists again.

So here’s my conversation with Mohen Leo - Production VFX Supervisor, TJ Falls, VFX Producer and Scott Pritchard, ILM VFX supervisor…

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For this, the second special Emmy nominees episode I got to speak with friend of the podcast and former guest VFX Animation Supervisor Hal Hickel (check out episode 68 for that conversation) along with Grady Cofer, Production Visual Effects Supervisor.

We chat about their work on the show, the balance of innovation and tradition, the use of certain tools of their trade and the collaborative nature of VFX work.

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This time I have the pleasure of sharing my conversations with Skywalker Sound’s Co-Supervising Sound Editor Matthew Wood, Sound Designer David W Collins and Re-recording Mixer Danielle Dupre.

I spoke with Matthew and David together and then separately with Danielle.

Matthew and David are Emmy nominated for Mandalorian Chapter 24, Matthew his also nominated for his work on Obi Wan Kenobi Part VI (6)

Danielle has also been nominated for her work on Obi Wan Kenobo part 6.

So first of all you'll hear my conversation with Matthew Wood and David W Collins then after the ads you’ll hear my conversation with Danielle.

I hope you enjoy it.

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For this episode, number 85, the firstone of September 2023, I have VFX supervisor of choice for both Spielberg and Scorcese, namely Pablo Helman.

Pablo and I spoke back in June 2023 about his career path and his work for Stephen and Marty. There will be a video version available for those of you that contribute via patreon on the second tier.

Pablo left his home of Argentina in the early 1990s to work in the VFX industry in California. He initially worked on films like Apollo 13 and Strange Days before joining ILM in 1996.

He went on to work on Jurassic Park 2, Contact, Saving Private Ryan, The Phantom Menace and more recently The Irishman, Mank and The Fablemans. A fascinating guy.

Links

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For this episode, number 86, I spoke with VFX Supervisor Charmaine Chan.

We chatted back in mid June 2023 on a boiling hot day here in London. We talked about Charmaine's entry into the industry via running a website about a particular girl group that you might have heard of.

She then went onto to be a researcher and compositor at ILM, and most recently a VFX supervisor on Gareth Edwards' visually dazzling, “The Creator” - out on 29th September 2023.
I'm very much looking forward to seeing it.

Listen in for the rest of the conversation.

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For this episode, number 87 I spoke to The British Film Institute’s Remastering and Technical lead Douglas Weir. Doug had recently introduced a screening of Jaws at the BFI back in June of this year. It wasn’t just any old print of Jaws, it was a near pristine dye transfer print that a colleague of Doug’s found in the archive.

After the screening which was amazing, I contacted Doug to see if he’d come on the podcast to talk about that print and about his career at BFI. It turns out he is already a listener of the podcast and was very keen to chat.

So Doug invited me up to the southbank based BFI and along with his colleague, I got a back stage tour, checking out all the old projectors and film reels (I’ve posted some photos on the filmumentaries Instagram page). Doug and I then sat down for an hour for a chat, covering a multitude of topics including Jaws, the limits of restoration from both a techinical POV as well as what should be restored Vs what can be achieved.

I hope you enjoy it.

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For this episode, number 88, I spoke with Mac Smith about the path he took to his career as Supervising Sound Editor and employee of Skywalker Sound, via marching bands, a chance meeting with Walter Murch, being propelled into the industry working for Robert Zemekis on Castaway. And so much more.

Listen in for the full story.

Thanks to the folks at Skywalker Sound for helping set this up.

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If you listened to episode 87 you’ll have heard my conversation with the British Film Institutes Douglas Weir. He’s Technical and Remastering lead there and does great work with his team to restore and release films from British classics to lost gems.

He invited me back to talk to him and his colleague Vic Pratt - film historian and Video Publishing Producer.

So I got together with them both at BFI Southbank last week to talk about some of their new projects.
One of their blu ray releases out this month is Short Sharp Shocks a wonderful collection of short films which… well I won’t say any more just now, you’ll hear everything about it in out conversation.

Just grab a glass of brandy, get a blanket and pull your chair closer to the fireplace. Enjoy.

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In this episode (number 90!!), I share an enlightening conversation with the creators of the "RoboDoc" series - a comprehensive documentary on the iconic sci-fi film, RoboCop. The team includes directors Chris Griffith and Eastwood Allen, and producer Gary Smart.

The trio talks in-depth about how they transformed their passion project into a widely acclaimed series over several years. They reveal that their journey was far from smooth, battling legal issues, budget constraints, and meeting stringent fair-use criteria, among other challenges. Their tenacity to produce a series that deeply analyses every scene of the cult classic is ultimately what led to the final output.
The documentary features over 100 interviews with cast, writers, producers, special effects designers and countless crew members of the Robocop universe to provide fans with an incredibly detailed and insightful look into this much-loved franchise. The creators finally discuss distribution, the importance of physical media, and their hopes for future projects.
In the meantime “stay out of trouble”...

ROBODOC: The Creation of RoboCop. A 4-part limited series detailing the making of the seminal sci-fi movie, RoboCop (1987)STREAMING NOW:

🇬🇧Prime Video via The Icon Film Channel

🇺🇸Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and other VOD via Screambox.


💿 BLU-RAY
🇬🇧 SPECIAL EDITION (REGION B)


🇺🇸 COLLECTOR’S EDITION (REGION A)


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For this episode, the second of November 2023, I spoke with director, producer and editor Jeremy Coon.

Jeremy was the producer on the 2007 film Napoleon Dynamite. But I spoke to him in his editor director capacity about the new documentary “A Disturbance in the Force’, which I was lucky enough to see at the UK premiere in London last week.

The documentary chronicles the story behind the bizarre and legendary Star Wars Holiday Special. The 1978 TV special full of growling wookies, odd dance numbers and a “revisit” of sorts to the cantina, run be Bea Arthur usual and awkward appearances from the main cast of Star Wars.

This is a shorter than usual episode, but I wanted to get it out to you before the documentary is released on 5th December

So here is my conversation with Jeremy Coon, director and editor of Disturbance in the Force. I hope you enjoy it.

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Now, for this exciting episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tom Spina.

Tom is an avid Star Wars enthusiast, restoration specialist, and the founder of Tom Spina Designs and Regal Robot. In our conversation, we delve into his early love for Star Wars and those toys, his passion for computer graphics on his Amiga, his brief stint as a TD in live TV, and his current work in restoring historical movie props. We also touch on his Star Wars Celebration panel, his interactions with the film saga's crew, props, and monsters.

It's a fascinating insight into his creative process, and I hope you enjoy our conversation.

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Uncover the secrets of Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1's breathtaking visual effects. VFX supervisors Jeffrey Sutherland and Simone Coco share insights on collaboration, challenges, and the art of crafting cinematic magic. Step behind the scenes and explore the dynamic world where reality meets creativity.

I was recently given the opportunity, by the folks at ILM, to talk to two VFX supervisors that worked on Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1. Namely Jeff Sutherland and Simone Coco. So as you might imagine I jumped at the chance and within 24 hours we were chatting.

In this conversation we discuss their work on Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1 and the unique challenges they face. They talk about the impact of practical elements on their VFX work, the importance of creating scale and believability, and the balance between realism and creativity. We also discuss the collaboration with stunt teams, the adaptation to new camera technology, and the always evolving role of VFX in filmmaking.

They share their experiences in finding creative solutions and maintaining freshness and objectivity. Just so that you know who is who, Jeffrey is the first to speak after me, and Simone is the one with the Italian accent.

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This is one from the archives, but I’ve been wanting to put this out in podcast for for some time now.

Its my interview with the legendary producer Robert Watts from back in July 2018.

My cameraman buddy Paddy and I visited Robert at his home, and a lovely home it was too. He was on such great form and just a delight to be with.

We arrived armed with some F1 signed caps from Hamilton and Vettel because a little birdy had told us he was a motorsport fan. And he was absolutely delighted. That little birdy was actually David Whitely, who is going to be a guest on this very podcast in the coming weeks.

It wasn’t of course ever intended to be a podcast, so you’ll hear my questions slightly off mic, but of course this is all about Robert and his work on 2001, Thunderball, Star Wars, Raiders, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi etc, so I'm sure you can forgive some audio irregularities.

As the recording starts, Robert and I are talking about Stuart Freeborn and his creation of Yoda. You’ll also hear friend of the podcast Paddy Tyndall ask the occasional question. I hope you enjoy it.

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Ok, this is another one from the archives, but as with the Robert Watts recording, I’ve been wanting to put this one out in podcast form for a while too.

This is a conversation I had with actor Garrick Hagon back in 2015. If that name doesn’t ring a bell, how about Biggs Darklighter.

Yes, Garrick is well known for his mostly deleted scenes from Star Wars in which he plays Luke’s best pal. I’d met Garrick in the green room at a Star Wars Trilogy day at the BFI southbank earlier that year. I’d been invited there by my old mate Toby Phlipott, Jabba puppeteer and all round good guy.

Garrick and I got chatting about how I’d done an interview with Toby and created what turned out to be a very popular video from it. So I suggested we do the same. In fact both of those videos are still on my vimeo channel. So I’ll also link to that in the show notes.

As with all interviews, when making a video you often cut out certain bits that you don’t need. But with a podcast you can make it more long form. So that’s what I’ve done here. The interview was done over the phone, so it won’t sound as good as some of my more recent episodes. But it’s still definitely very listenable.

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I hope you enjoyed my archival interview episodes in December 2023, one with Producer Robert Watts, the other with actor Garrick Hagon.

Well now we are back to some recent interviews, I can tell you I’ve been busy lining these up ready for 2024!

So… for the first, its a pretty big one, well it’s a very big one - Thanks to the lovely folks at ILM, I was given the chance to interview director Gareth Edwards and his FX crew on The Creator.

I’d be trying to get Gareth on via a mutual friend of ours but given Gareth is currently doing press about the nominations the film has received, so it was perfect timing.
So you’ll hear my conversion with Gareth along with VFX supervisors Jay Cooper, Ian Comley, Charmain Chan, Andrew Roberts and Jay Cooper as well as SFX supervisor Neil Corbould.
There is an exclusive video version of the podcast on the filmumentaries youtube channel so that you can see all of us talking while I paint the interviews with some of the VFX breakdown clips ILM kindly provided. So if you can, head over to youtube to check that out.

So, we talk about:

• Gareth’s unique shooting techniques that enable large scope on a relatively low budget. And also the now famous use of the pro-sumer camera.
• How the collaboration between the on-set crew and VFX teams is crucial for achieving seamless integration of practical and digital elements.
• How anchoring VFX work to practical elements in the frame enhances the realism and believability of the visual effects.
• How real-world locations can provide inspiration and add authenticity to the film's design and visual effects.
• How the future of filmmaking with VFX lies in finding innovative ways to combine practical and digital techniques and finding the best tools to make the pipeline more efficient.
• We finish by talking about award recognition and what it means to them.

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In episode 97 of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview helicopter stunt pilot Fred North. Fred shares his journey from a childhood fascination with helicopters to becoming a successful stunt pilot in Hollywood. He emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for oneself and having a shark-like drive to keep moving forward. Fred also discusses the art of flying a helicopter and the importance of connecting with the machine. He shares insights on working with directors and understanding their vision to offer creative solutions.


Takeaways

• Creating opportunities and having a drive to succeed are key to achieving success.
• Connecting with the machine and understanding its nuances is crucial in flying a helicopter.
• Understanding the director's vision and offering creative solutions can make a helicopter pilot invaluable in the film industry.
• Embracing mistakes and learning from them is essential for personal and professional growth.

Chapters00:00 Introduction and Patreon Support
03:35 First Encounter with Helicopter
06:27 From Childhood Fascination to Becoming a Stunt Pilot
08:20 Shark-Like Drive and Embracing New Opportunities
10:42 Dealing with Mistakes and Learning from Them
12:30 The Importance of Having an Open Mind and Connecting with People
14:24 Writing the Book to Share His Journey
25:08 The Role of Instinct and Connection in Flying
28:21 Finding a Way into the Film Industry
35:25 Understanding the Director's Vision and Offering Creative Solutions
41:06 QR Codes in the Book and Making it Entertaining
42:18 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes

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For episode 98, I am joined by my guest from episode 2, Giles Terera, actor, writer, musician and great friend of mine. He suggested to me a few months back that we should do a commentary on The Empire Strikes Back. So last month that's just what we did. I went up to central London to his flat, armed with two mics and we sat at watched and waffled over our favourite film.

I hope you enjoy the episode. If you want to watch along, hit play on the movie just as the intro music (after my spoken introduction) ends. Or just listen to the episode for some chat and fun insights. I reckon we'll do a Return of the Jedi commentary at some point. Particularly because Giles has worked with several of the British actors in that movie.

Enjoy!

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For episode 99 I interviewed friend, David Whiteley. If you don't know David, you should! He's a news presenter, but also a huge Star Wars Fan. And, has made two fantastic documentaries about the subject. Firstly "The Galaxy that Britain Built" and secondly "Toy Empire". Both are a must-watch for fans like us.

David also produced a book which gathers together the interviews his conducted for "The Galaxy that Britain Built". It's available on Amazon here. Check it out! And then BUY IT!

Talking of books, don't forget that Justin Berger and I have now pre-released our Return of the Jedi - Unauthorized Timeline book as an ebook on Amazon.

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For this the 100th episode it seems fitting that it’s someone who’s name I’ve known since I was 4, 5 and 6 when my imagination was first sparked, looking through my Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi comics and magazines.

That name is of course Phil Tippett, one of those incredible artists whose work transcends the films he’s worked on. His work is always full of a singularly tactile, grunginess that I love. Whether it’s the chess pieces in Star Wars, the Tauntauns or Walkers on Empire, the Rancor in Jedi, the Dinosaurs in Jurassic Park or the bugs in Starship Troopers, Phil’s work is always imbued with such great design and character. I’ve been an admirer of his work as I said, for decades now. And I was given the opportunity to speak with him in February of this year, 2024. I knew immediately I should save that conversation for my first milestone of 100 episodes.

Thanks to everyone for their support since I've been making this podcast. It means the world to me.

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Michael Hewitt Brown Marathon Donation Page

In April 2024, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to California, starting with a visit to Skywalker Ranch, Lucasfilm and Rancho Obi Wan. And unfogettable three days.

While at Skywalker Ranch I met with Sound Supervisor, Mac Smith and legendary Model Maker, Lorne Peterson.

This episode is a report from those three days.

Full written report with photos

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Skywalker Ranch Archives Fly-through from the blu ray boxset

Archives Tour with Don Bies from the laserdisc boxset

For this episode, number 102, I am speaking to to gentleman that worked on the visual effects for Masters of the air, the Apple TV series which is a continuation of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. This time tackling World War Two airmen and their various missions.  So I chat with Xavier Bernasoni  who was one of the vfx supervisors on the show for DNEG and also two Steve jelly of Dimension studio who is responsible for a lot of the virtual production stuff, the big volume that you'll know from shows like The Mandalorian. Well it's now of course being used in many different ways in many different productions and not necessarily the ways that you would imagine...

I hope you enjoy the conversation.

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My guest for this second episode of May 2024 is production designer Nathan Crowley. If you don’t know his name, you will definitely know and most likely love, his work..

• Behind Enemy Lines (2001)
• Insomnia (2002)
• Batman Begins (2005)
• The Prestige (2006)
• The Dark Knight (2008)
• John Carter (2012)
• The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
• Interstellar (2014)
• Dunkirk (2017)
• The Greatest Showman (2017)
• First Man (2018)
• Tenet (2020)
• Wonka (2023)

Nathan is an incredibly talented artist that is able to create amazing worlds on screen. He’s also a great guy and very easy to talk with. We had a great conversation just a week or so ago. It’s avery fluid chat, but we do cover a few of the milestones in his career. Starting with Spielberg’s Hook and finishing up on Wonka and Wicked. With much chat about Chris Nolan’s films in between. Enjoy!

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Episoe 104 - This time I chat with Ahsoka producer and ILM VFX Supervisor, Richard Bluff along with his colleague Matthew Wood, Supervising Sound Editor.

Key takeaways:

• The collaboration between sound and visual effects departments is crucial in creating a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience.
• Early involvement of sound in the production process helps inform the visuals and enhances the storytelling.
• The use of practical effects, such as miniatures, can provide a unique and grounded look to the visuals.
• Designing and creating sound for ships in the Star Wars universe involves a balance between familiar elements and new, unique sounds.
• The organic and mysterious nature of the Eye of Sion and the witches' voices in Ahsoka adds depth and intrigue to the storytelling.
• The balance between using technology and practical effects is a constant consideration in visual effects production. The use of LED screens allowed for interactive lighting and realistic reflections in the visual effects of 'The Mandalorian' and 'The Book of Boba Fett'.
• Collaboration between the visual effects and sound departments was crucial in creating the desired effects and atmosphere for the shows.
• The Howlers were created using a combination of motion bases, horses, and visual effects to achieve a realistic and dynamic performance.
• The creative team is constantly looking for new techniques and technologies to improve the visual effects and sound design of the series.

Ahsoka is available to watch on Disney+.

Enjoy!

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Hi, this is a bonus episode. 

Sometimes I get invited to interview a particular behind the scenes artist and I've decided I should say yes to them and get them out as bonus episodes. 
So in this bonus episode, I spoke with stunt coordinator, Krista Perry. Krista is a, native Californian, who grew up travelling the country at the age of eight for competitive swimming. Finishing out her career as an All American Swimmer in the state of California. She is now a stunt performer and stunt coordinator, most recently working on Killers of the Flower moon and the series Reservation Dogs. 

So here's my conversation with Krista. I hope you enjoy it.

Takeaways

• The stunt industry is male-dominated, but Krista found her way into it through her background as an athlete.
• Discipline and teamwork are crucial in both athletics and stunts.
• Body awareness is important in stunts, and technology allows performers to analyze their form and make improvements.
• Working with actors who lack physical awareness can be challenging, but having a double provides a backup plan.
• Script breakdown and casting for stunts involve finding the right people with the necessary skills and background.
• The adaptation to VFX in stunts has allowed for more creative possibilities.
• Trust and relationships are key in the stunt industry, and working with familiar team members fosters a sense of shorthand and communication.
• Working on both big and small productions offers different experiences and opportunities for learning.
• There is a potential for Oscars for stunts to recognize the hard work and contributions of stunt performers.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, host Jamie Benning interviews Nilo Rodis-Jamero, a designer and production designer known for his work on films like The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Johnny Mnemonic.

They discuss Nilo's experiences working with George Lucas, Phil Tippett, and Joe Johnston, as well as his collaborations with other renowned designers like Eiko Ishioka and Hayao Miyazaki. Nilo shares insights into his design process and the importance of simplicity and iconicity in his work. The conversation also touches on Nilo's involvement in the design of the character Buz Lightyear in Toy Story and his experiences as a production designer on Johnny Mnemonic.

In this part of the conversation, Nilo discusses the challenges of working on movies with hard deadlines and limited budgets. He shares his experiences working with George Lucas and John Hughes, and how their approaches to filmmaking differed from the Hollywood norm. Nilo also compares working on Johnny Mnemonic and Explorers, both of which faced production difficulties. He highlights the importance of creative freedom and the impact of budget constraints on the filmmaking process. Nilo also shares insights into the differences between the film and video game industries, particularly in terms of discipline and the lack of a hard deadline in game development.

This is only part 1 of a long conversation. Part 2 is coming up soon!

Takeaways

• Nilo Rodis Jamero has had a diverse and influential career as a designer and production designer in the film industry.
• He has worked on iconic films like The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Johnny Mnemonic.
• Nilo has rubbed shoulders with renowned designers and filmmakers, including George Lucas, Phil Tippett, Joe Johnston, Eiko Ishioka, and Hayao Miyazaki.
• His design process focuses on simplicity and creating designs that are easily recognizable and memorable.
• Nilo's work on the character Lunar Larry (who became Buzz Lightyear) in Toy Story showcases his ability to bring a character to life through design.
• His experiences as a production designer on Johnny Mnemonic highlight the challenges and dynamics of the filmmaking process. Movies are often made with hard deadlines and limited budgets, which can pose challenges for filmmakers.
• Working with directors like George Lucas and John Hughes, who prioritize creative freedom, can provide a different filmmaking experience.
• Films like Johnny Mnemonic and Explorers faced production difficulties, which affected their final outcomes.
• The film and video game industries have different approaches to discipline and deadlines, with games often lacking a hard deadline.
• Budget constraints can impact the creative process and the ability to achieve the desired vision for a film.

Sound Bites

• "I like design that are very simple to digest and then reward the viewer with more details as they zoom in."
• "I work in an increment of a month. So, if, you know, can we agree on my terms?"
• "The essence of that character is right there. Facially, like his expressions, his costume, his stance, like it's all there."
• "Movies are literally backed into a hard date, which is the release date."
• "The way Hollywood movies are made, it's the opposite of that."
• "I learned how to do movies the way George makes movies."

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Last episode you heard part one of my conversation with Nilo Rodis Jamero, design legend and wonderful person. For this episode, number 106, the first of July 2024 you’ll be hearing part two of our chat…


On entering the gaming industry Nilo's focus was always about inspiring and guiding production teams to craft original and iconic characters and worlds. He’s real advocate for originality and imagination in design, rather than leaning on copying existing designs or using AI to assist those designs.
In our conversation, Nilo shares his experiences working with the legendary John Hughes, emphasizing the value of building relationships and understanding a director’s vision.

We also delve into the crucial role of production design in film and the unspoken code of acceptance when a director gives their nod of approval to a set.Nilo believes that good design should shake the viewer to their core, creating a unique experience. This means a lot of iterating and refining, but through this rigorous process, truly groundbreaking concepts can emerge. Collaboration is another cornerstone of Nilo’s philosophy. He believes that the creative process thrives on the participation of diverse talents, each contributing their unique expertise to the project.

This collaborative spirit is what drives innovation.Now you’ll know if you listened to my chat with Nilo in 2021 and last episode that he’s met a lot of key figures in the industry, in this chat he talks about n meeting influential figures like Hayao Miyazaki and Tezuka Osamu. These encounters have not only inspired him but also provided valuable insights into his design and storytelling work. But it’s not all work for Nilo—his passions outside of work, like Formula One racing, bring joy and fresh perspectives into his life. There’s a great bit at the end of this chat when I tell Nilo I work in F1, and he becomes the fan for a moment.So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the creative mind of Nilo Rodis-Jamero. This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a whole lot of passion for the art of design. 

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Peter Kuran's "The Thing" Kickstarter

"Star Wars came and changed my life."

Steve Sansweet, former bureau chief of the Wall Street Journal, shares his passion for movies and collecting, particularly Star Wars memorabilia. He recalls his childhood love for movies and science fiction, and how he started collecting science fiction toys and robots. He discusses the impact of Star Wars on his life and the collecting community, and his role in writing the book 'From Concept to Screen to Collectible'. Sansweet also talks about his time at Lucasfilm and his extensive collection of Star Wars memorabilia. Steve Sansweet discusses his favorite Star Wars collectibles, his role at Lucasfilm, and the growth of Star Wars fandom. He talks about his involvement in creating the Star Wars Encyclopedia and his time working on the special editions. Sansweet shares his experiences at Star Wars celebrations and the importance of fan engagement. He also reveals his favorite piece from the Phantom Menace era and discusses the challenges of collecting Star Wars merchandise. Sansweet reflects on his time at Lucasfilm and the future of Rancho Obi-Wan.

Links:

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Rancho Obi Wan have a big fundraiser taking place in Seattle Oct 5th

Jett Green shares insights into her upbringing and her journey into the world of matte painting, highlighting her work on Labyrinth, Howard the Duck, Temple of Doom, and The NeverEnding Story. She also discusses the collaborative and supportive culture at ILM, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in achieving remarkable results. Jett reflects on her transition from traditional painting to digital matte painting, as well as her current work as a fine artist in Maui.

Links

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https://www.caroleenjettgreen.com/
https://viewpointsgallerymaui.com/

Nigel Smith Cinema walks in London

In this episode, Jamie Benning interviews Doug Weir and Kieron Webb from the British Film Institute (BFI) about the restoration and screening of the 1933 classic film King Kong - 8th and 16th Sept 2024. 

They discuss the historical significance of the film, its pioneering visual effects, and its impact on cinema. They also talk about the process of restoring and preserving old film prints, including the challenges and techniques involved. The conversation highlights the importance of film restoration and the BFI's efforts to preserve and showcase classic films. The conversation explores the process of preserving and restoring classic films, with a focus on the upcoming screening of King Kong at the BFI Southbank.

They highlight the collaboration with labs like Photochem and YCM Labs, which have a long-standing history in preservation and restoration work. The conversation also touches on the challenges of finding printing elements for preservation and the significance of preserving the original cinematic experience.

BFI King Kong tickets.

Glossary of film related terms.

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This is a short bonus episode in which I interview author Kelly Knox about her co-authoring of "Return of the Jedi - A Visual Archive".

Kelly Knox discusses her love for the Star Wars movies, particularly the original trilogy, and her experience co-writing the visual archive book for Return of the Jedi. The book focuses on the behind-the-scenes details and connections that branched out from the film. Kelly shares her favorite discoveries while researching for the book and the challenge of balancing the desire for detail with limited space. She also hints at future projects and her excitement for attending Star Wars Celebration in Japan.
keywordsStar Wars, movies, original trilogy, Return of the Jedi, visual archive, behind-the-scenes, connections, research, book, interviews, panels, Japan
takeaways

• Kelly Knox fell in love with the Star Wars movies at a young age and has been a fan her whole life.
• The visual archive book for Return of the Jedi focuses on behind-the-scenes details and connections to other Star Wars projects.
• Kelly enjoyed discovering new facts and information while researching for the book.
• She has plans for future Star Wars books and is looking forward to attending Star Wars Celebration in Japan.

A video version will also be available on youtube.

Enjoy!

Today’s conversation is one I’ve had in the bag for a couple of months now . I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Andrew Whitehurst.

Andrew’s journey into the visual effects industry is one that really resonates with me, especially when he talks about his childhood fascination with movie magic and a certain BBC documentary. Yes, THAT one! Like many of us, it all started with a spark of curiosity. He pursued that passion at art college and gained experience in various roles, which eventually led him to become a visual effects artist. His early work on projects like Tomb Raider 2 and Troy paved the way for his role as VFX supervisor on Ex Machina, ultimately winning him an academy award.

In our conversation, I got to dive deep into Andrew’s experience working on films like Ex Machina and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. We talked about the challenges of creating realistic CGI characters and the meticulous attention to detail that’s required for modern audiences. Andrew shares that belief in the value of using traditional tools like pencil and paper in the design process, and on the importance of looking beyond the screen to other forms of art for inspiration.

Through our discussion, Andrew provided some great insights into the decision-making process for visual effects and how to strike that delicate balance between realism and audience expectations. 

Key points:

• A love for movies and a fascination with visual effects can lead to a career in the industry.
• Art college and self-learning are valuable for developing skills in animation and 3D software.
• Opportunities may arise in unexpected ways, such as working as a runner or doing graphic design for DVD menus.
• Being open to new roles and challenges can lead to career progression and working with renowned directors.
• Enjoying the process and having a good working relationship with colleagues are key to success in the industry. Ex Machina was a highly ambitious film with a tight shooting schedule and minimal pre-visualization and concept work.
• The design process for Ava focused on creating visual effects that could be executed like a regular piece of drama.
• The decision to use CG for Ava's head was made during the editing process, allowing for more creative control and a stronger visual impact.
• The design of Ava was influenced by a variety of sources, including racing car suspension, modernist sculpture, and human anatomy.
• The use of pencil and paper in the design process is a valuable tool for exploring ideas and understanding visual concepts. Taking the time to manually create something allows for thinking and feeling, which can lead to better results and creative collaboration.
• Observing the world and engaging with different forms of art can enhance creativity and provide inspiration for visual effects.
• Recreating a young version of a character like Indiana Jones requires a combination of techniques, including face swapping and machine learning.
• The use of high-resolution scans and archival material can help ensure accuracy and detail in visual effects.
• Closure on a project is important for maintaining mental health and allows for focusing on new challenges.

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In this conversation, TyRuben shares his journey into the world of visual effects and concept design, detailing the profound impact of films like '2001: A Space Odyssey' on his aspirations. He discusses the importance of self-permission in pursuing one's dreams, the skills he developed over the years, and his experiences at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). He emphasizes the significance of collaboration, the fast-paced nature of concept design, and the evolution of CGI in filmmaking. He reflects on his work with industry legends like George Lucas and James Cameron, the transformative experience of working on 'Avatar', and his eventual transition into education and engagement with artificial intelligence.

Key moments:

• Seeing '2001: A Space Odyssey' sparked my interest in visual effects.
• Self-permission is crucial for success in any field.
• Building a diverse skill set is essential for a career in VFX.
• Collaboration is key in the creative process.
• The fast-paced environment at ILM taught me to adapt quickly.
• Pitching ideas is a vital part of the creative process.
• Working with George Lucas was a dream come true.
• The experience on 'Avatar' solidified my role in the industry.
• Teaching is a natural progression in my career.
  
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In this episode, I sat down with Jon Spira to dive deep into the making of his latest documentary, The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee. If you’re a regular listener, you know Jon’s been on the podcast a couple of times before, and it’s always a treat to hear him talk about his work.

This time around, he takes us through the journey of bringing Christopher Lee’s story to life—literally.Jon kicked things off by sharing what drew him to this project in the first place. Inspired by a mix of fascination and intrigue, he became captivated by Lee's enigmatic presence, especially after rewatching a rather unusual "This Is Your Life episode" featuring Lee. Jon’s documentary doesn't just skim over Lee’s storied career, from Hammer Horror to The Lord of the Rings, but it digs into the emotional layers of a man who, despite his towering on-screen persona, was often plagued by self-doubt and a desire to control how the world perceived him.

We spent a good amount of time talking about the challenges Jon faced in portraying someone as multifaceted as Christopher Lee. It’s no small feat to condense a career that spanned over six decades into a single film. Jon wanted to avoid the usual biographical pitfalls—just ticking off achievements and movie titles—and instead aimed for something more intimate and emotionally resonant. He wanted viewers to come away with a sense of who Christopher Lee really was, beyond just the roles he played.

One of the more fascinating parts of our conversation was Jon’s decision to use a marionette puppet to represent Lee. It was an unconventional choice, but as Jon explained, it made perfect sense for a subject who was so concerned with how his story was told. He originally toyed with the idea of CGI but felt that it lacked the emotional warmth he was looking for. So, he collaborated with Andy Gent, known for his work with Wes Anderson and Tim Burton, to create a beautifully crafted puppet of Lee. And who better to provide the voice than Peter Serafinowicz, whose deep, rich tones helped bring that puppet to life. Jon’s approach allowed Lee to narrate his own story, with other voices occasionally chiming in to add a touch of warmth and gentle contradiction. It’s this kind of creative storytelling that sets Jon’s work apart—finding new ways to tell familiar stories.Jon and I also delved into some of the broader challenges facing filmmakers today.

The industry is in a strange place right now, with budgets tightening, streamers changing their strategies, and the rise of new technologies like AI reshaping the landscape. We had a lively discussion about the role of AI in filmmaking. For one specific sequence in the film—recounting a moment when Christopher Lee witnessed the last public execution by guillotine in France—Jon’s team used AI-assisted animation to breathe life into archival photos. It’s a decision that has sparked some controversy, especially from certain corners of the American press, but Jon sees it as just another tool in the creative toolkit.

He acknowledges the fears around AI and the impact it might have on jobs, but he also believes that, when used thoughtfully, it can elevate storytelling in new and exciting ways.Throughout our conversation, a recurring theme was empathy—something that Jon clearly values in his approach to documentary storytelling. He talked about how he always aims to create a sense of connection between the audience and his subjects, to show their humanity in all its complexity.

For Jon, it’s not just about documenting facts; it’s about exploring how those facts feel, and how they shape the person behind the public image. In The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee, this approach results in a film that isn’t just a tribute to a cinematic legend but also a portrait of a man grappling with his own insecurities, just like the rest of us.

We also touched on the state of cinema today—how trends are shifting, the uncertain future of theatrical releases, and what that means for filmmakers who, like Jon, are passionate about telling unique, challenging stories. It’s clear that Jon sees the current moment as both a challenge and an opportunity—a chance to push boundaries and keep audiences engaged in new ways, even if it means embracing some unconventional methods along the way.All in all, our chat was a rich, multi-layered conversation, touching on everything from the intricacies of puppetry to the big questions about where the film industry is headed. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the art of documentary filmmaking, the evolving landscape of cinema, and the enduring allure of a complex, larger-than-life figure like Christopher Lee.

Episode 113 is up. My conversation with production eesigner, art director, concept designer and VFX artist Kevin Jenkins.

We swap stories about our childhood movie experiences and the films that got under our skin—like Jaws, Star Wars, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. We talk about how these films not only shaped Kevin's tastes but ignited a passion for storytelling and artistry that's stuck with him.
Kevin and I get into the risks filmmakers took back then. We touch on the balance between practical effects and digital tech, and why having a passionate, collaborative team is crucial to making something memorable. There's a bit on the commercialization of genres and how fandom sometimes gets too caught up in nostalgia, missing out on new, original stories.

We also cover how filmmaking has evolved with technology, especially for artists like Kevin, who transitioned from traditional illustration to digital tools. Kevin shares insights on how tech influences collaboration and creativity on set. He walks me through the role of a concept artist, the problem-solving and idea generation that goes into projects like World War Z and Edge of Tomorrow—highlighting the creative process behind creature designs and visual effects.

Kevin opens up about the challenge of finding the right design and the nuances of working within big franchises. He talks about the essential collaboration between art and costume departments to build a cohesive visual world. Finally, Kevin shares his ambition to work on a historical epic.

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In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I’m bringing you some updates on my work with ILM and sitting down with director Laurent Bouzereau to chat about his new documentary, Music by John Williams. We dive into the emotional punch of Williams’ music, the process behind crafting the documentary, and Williams’ lasting legacy as a composer. Laurent opens up about his experience working closely with Williams and the art of storytelling in documentaries, as well as the challenge of sifting through such a massive collection of iconic work.

‘Music by John Williams’ is available on Disney+ and in cinemas for limited release. 

UK Screenings of the film

Slimer Article at ILM.com

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Welcome to Episode 115 of The Filmumentaries Podcast. This time I’m talking to John Bell, a concept artist and art director whose career has spanned some of the most memorable films of the last four decades. From Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home to Jurassic Park and Back to the Future II and III,

John’s work has left a significant mark on cinema.  In our conversation, John takes us back to the early days of his career, when he transitioned from designing cars at General Motors to creating video game concepts at Atari, before finally finding his way into the film industry. He shares the story of how a speculative portfolio sent to ILM eventually opened the door to a career that included working alongside legends like Nilo Rodis-Jamero and Ken Ralston.

We talk in depth about his work on Back to the Future II, where he imagined a future Hill Valley steeped in a mix of Americana and 1980s aesthetics, and Jurassic Park, where he brought bold, colorful designs to vehicles, props, and even the park’s iconic branding. John also reflects on how collaboration is at the heart of filmmaking, with directors like Steven Spielberg and production designers like Rick Carter encouraging his input while shaping the look and feel of these projects.  We also cover his time working on Antz at DreamWorks, where he stepped into the role of production designer for the first time, and Rango, ILM’s first animated feature.

Throughout, John shares his approach to balancing creativity and problem-solving, and the importance of pulling inspiration from both his surroundings and his past experiences.  It’s a wide-ranging discussion that touches on everything from the challenges of designing for science fiction, fantasy, and animation to how the industry has changed over the years. I hope you enjoy it.


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John Bell Studio

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with cinema historian and walking tour guide, Nigel Smith. Nigel is the creator of Memory Palaces, a website project dedicated to exploring and preserving the stories of London’s cinemas—both those still standing and those long forgotten. Join me and Nigel as we discuss:

• Nigel’s early love of cinema, sparked by watching Superman II as a child.
• The evolution of his passion from movies to the buildings that housed them.
• The rich history of London’s cinema culture, including iconic locations like the West End’s movie palaces and quirky cinemas like the Prince Charles.
• Fascinating discoveries from Nigel’s research, such as a Camden cinema run by a medium who let spirits dictate the programming.
• The enduring importance of community in cinema-going, from bustling matinees of the past to modern film clubs like Tufnell Park Film Club.

Nigel also shares anecdotes from his popular walking tours, where participants bring their own memories to add to the tapestry of London’s cinematic past. Whether it’s the glamour of West End premieres or the humble beginnings of Victorian-era musicals, Nigel’s storytelling brings the history of cinema to life in a truly unique way.For more on Nigel’s work and how to join one of his walking tours, visit Memory Palaces.

Links and Recommendations:

• Learn about Nigel’s walking tours: Memory Palaces
• Visit the Cinema Museum in London: cinemamuseum.org.uk
• Explore the Kent Museum of the Moving Image: kentmomi.org

Listen in for a fascinating conversation about the intersections of cinema, architecture, and community.

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