Hello, Hello!In this episode, AI Hosts Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness dive deep into the remarkable career of London-based filmmaker and visual effects artist Magali Barbe, whose passion project short film Strange Beasts went viral overnight and landed her offers from 20th Century Fox and top Hollywood talent agencies. They explore how her 13 years as a pre-visualization artist on blockbuster films like Wonder Woman, Avengers: Endgame, and Fantastic Beasts gave her the technical foundation to create an independently produced short film so polished that Hollywood executives assumed it was a multi-million dollar studio production. The conversation broadens into a sweeping philosophical examination of how digital technology — from augmented reality and deepfakes to social media algorithms and genetic manipulation — is fundamentally reshaping human connection, perception, and society itself.We also talk about:The psychological toll of spending over a decade executing someone else's creative vision as a pre-visualization artist, and how that frustration became the fuel for Magali's creative pivot into independent filmmakingThe deliberate design philosophy behind the robot Max in This Time Away — specifically, why giving a futuristic robot the texture and finish of a 1970s kitchen appliance was a calculated psychological choice rooted in the uncanny valley theoryThe structural and cultural differences between the French and British film industries, including how France's government-subsidized CNC system creates institutional bureaucracy, while the UK's scarcity of funding forces a passionate, grassroots DIY filmmaking cultureThe concept of a "water bottle tour" in Hollywood — the grueling marathon of studio meetings that newly signed talent must endure, which functions less as a pitch session and more as a high-stakes personality and temperament auditThe piano chord metaphor shared by Chris Barkley in the original interview, which equates the musical necessity of space between notes to the human need for distance and breathing room in relationships, and how modern technology's relentless drive to eliminate friction may be destroying the beautiful music of genuine human connectionPeople, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:PeopleMagali Barbe (filmmaker/VFX artist)David Heyman (producer)Timothy Spall (stars in This Time Away)Tom Cruise (deepfake example)Films & ProjectsStrange Beasts (her viral short)This Time Away (her second short)Wonder Woman (previs)Kingsman: The Golden Circle (previs)Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (previs)Avengers: Endgame (previs)WALL-E (robot design reference)Companies, Organizations & PlatformsVimeo20th Century Studios (formerly 20th Century Fox)United Talent Agency (UTA)CNC (Centre National du Cinéma)Silicon ValleyConcepts & TechnologiesPre-visualization (Previz)Augmented Reality (AR)The Uncanny ValleyDeepfakesCRISPRBully Whippets (myostatin / double-muscling)The Marketplace of Ideas"Move Fast and Break Things"Water Bottle Tour — industry-ritual slang for a series of back-to-back Studio meetingsThe Piano / F♯ and F♮ Metaphor — Chris Barkley's original analogy about conflict when one note (or person) smothers anotherWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITSubscribe: https://themakeitpodcast.store/shop/supportAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is brought to you by our e-book Mastering Film Marketing. Get your copy today at https://themakeitpodcast.com/products/mastering-film-marketingHello, Hello! In this episode, we sit down with legendary audience research expert Kevin Goetz, the CEO of Screen Engine, who has tested over 5,000 film and television titles for major studios over three decades. Kevin shares his journey from aspiring Broadway performer to becoming Hollywood's most trusted voice on audience testing, discussing how filmmakers can use audience feedback to enhance rather than compromise their creative vision. The conversation explores the evolution of audience expectations in the streaming era, the importance of knowing your deficits as an entrepreneur, and Kevin's philosophy on following passion over profit.We also talk about:• Kevin's childhood in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, and the family dynamics that shaped his drive for success • The misconceptions filmmakers have about audience testing and how it actually enhances creative vision • How streaming platforms have changed viewer behavior, and the need for compelling cold opens • The importance of self-awareness in leadership and surrounding yourself with people better than you at specific skills • Kevin's approach to delegation, team building, and scaling a business with 320 employeesPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:Screen Engine/ASIBBMG Entertainment — kevingoetz360.comHow to Score in HollywoodAudienceologyProducers Guild of AmericaAmerican CinemathequeNashville Film FestivalNews & Media ServicesGround NewsSemafor The Media LinePeopleDerek Guy (menswear writer)Joan RiversNicole KidmanCharles Roven (producer)Lauren Shuler Donner  Richard DonnerStephanie Allain Donald De Line (PGA)Ben Fritz (Wall Street Journal)Barbara JarrettBrooke ShieldsJared LetoTravis KnightFilms & TVGhostSinnersEverything Everywhere All at OnceHacks (HBO Max)Masters of the Universe (He-Man movie)Backrooms (A24)Iron LungPlaces & InstitutionsBensonhurst, BrooklynEast Brunswick, New JerseyNashville, TennesseeVanderbilt UniversityWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITwww.themakeitpodcast.store/shop/supportAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!WHAT IS FILM BRIEF?Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking.BRIEF:In this episode, host Nick explores Spider Noir, a groundbreaking superhero series that transforms Marvel mythology into a Depression-era noir meditation on aging, regret, and redemption. The show stars Nicolas Cage as Ben Reilly, a worn-down private investigator and former masked vigilante navigating the rain-soaked streets of 1930s New York. This isn't your typical superhero story—it's a slow-burn character study that prioritizes atmosphere and emotional depth over explosive action sequences.TAKEAWAYS:• Harry Bradbeer's directorial approach and the creative decision to use four different directors across eight episodes • The series' bold aesthetic choice offering both color and authentic black-and-white viewing options • How the multiverse concept allows superhero storytelling to age alongside audiences • The evolution from the animated Spider-Verse version to this more emotionally grounded live-action adaptation • Why prioritizing older heroes and mature themes represents an important shift in superhero cinemaMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Spider-NoirNicolas CageHarry Bradbeer (director)Oren Uziel (writer)Ben Reilly (character)FleabagEnola HolmesRaymond ChandlerSpider-Man: Into the Spider-VersePeter Parker1930s New YorkGreat DepressionMarvelSpider-ManEbook: "Mastering Film Marketing"We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITwww.themakeitpodcast.store/shop/supportAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!In this episode, AI Hosts Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness discuss the career of actress Danielle Vega, who transitioned from childhood stardom in "Barney and Friends" to adult success. Vega's journey is highlighted as a case study in resilience, detailing her early audition process, the demanding physical conditions for performers, and the supportive environment at Katie Studios. The conversation explores Vega's transition to adult professionalism, her humbling experiences on the red carpet, and her eventual success in roles like "East Los High" and "Chicago Med." The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparation, learning from failures, and the impact of early experiences on professional growth.We also talk about:What it meant to be a mixed‑race child actor on a 1990s non‑union set that was paradoxically safer and more protective than many mainstream productions.The brutal physical reality behind the Barney suit and how witnessing that sacrifice shaped Danielle’s understanding of professionalism and dedication.How the “illusion of competence” and the credential trap led her to repeat the same mistake at age 22 that she learned to avoid at age 9.Her return to acting with East Los High, a pioneering transmedia teen drama that secretly delivered critical sex‑ed and abuse‑prevention resources to its audience.How all of this culminated in work on network television (including Chicago Med, directed by Carl Weathers) and a “closed‑loop” career that echoes the educational mission of Barney & Friends in a more mature form.People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:Danielle Vega David Joyner (Barney suit performer)Bob West (Barney's voice)Penny Wilson (choreographer) Carl WeathersApollo Creed (fictional character)Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show Barney & Friends Barney's Sense-Sational Day East Los High Chicago Med RockyBarney (the purple dinosaur) Kim — Danielle's character on Barney & Friends; Ceci Camayo — Danielle's character on East Los HighMima & Pop Pop — Kim's fictional grandparents on Barney & FriendsSAG-AFTRA Southern Methodist University (SMU) Dallas, Texas HuluTransmedia storytelling Beginner's mind (Shoshin)Illusion of competence (Dunning–Kruger effect) Credential trap — a discussed concept, no single authoritative source Very Special EpisodeTrojan horse (as an education-delivery strategy)We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITSubscribe: https://themakeitpodcast.store/shop/supportAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is brought to you by our e-book Mastering Film Marketing. Get your copy today at https://allthingsmakeit.com/collections/learnThis episode is brought to you by Anthropic. Claude is the AI for minds that don’t stop at good enough—it's the collaborator that actually understands your entire workflow and thinks WITH you, not for you. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude Pro when you use our link – www.claude.ai/makeitHello, Hello! In this episode, veteran line producer Stephen Marinaccio shares his 35+ years of experience managing productions across 30+ countries, from working with James Cameron to developing Line Budgeter, a revolutionary budgeting platform created by actual line producers. He discusses the essential skills needed for production management, the art of problem-solving on complex international shoots, and how his military upbringing shaped his detail-oriented approach to filmmaking. Stephen reveals the reality of managing multi-million dollar budgets and provides invaluable advice for aspiring production managers.We also talk about:• The development of Line Budgeter and why existing production software falls short • How to read scripts like a line producer and identify all hidden costs • The importance of communication and relationship management on set • Breaking down scenes to understand the true scope of production requirements • The role of AI in future film production and maintaining human creativityPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:PeopleStephen MarinaccioJames CameronEmily Best (Seed&Spark)Sarah Childress (NPT Creative Director) NPT itself is hereEarl Woods Tiger WoodsEzekiel "Zeke" Emanuel (Rahm Emanuel's brother, author of Eat Your Ice Cream)Rob SchneiderMark Magidson (producer of Samsara)Ron Fricke (director of Samsara)Bix Beiderbecke (subject of the film Bix)Films & TV 12. Ghosts of the Abyss 13. The Abyss 14. Anora 15. The Blair Witch Project 16. Napoleon Dynamite 17. The Devil Wears Prada 18. Materialists 19. Citizen Kane 20. Cloud Atlas 21. Star Wars 22. Coming to America 23. Psycho 24. Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo 25. The Fall (2006) 26. Bix (1991) 27. Planet Earth 28. Samsara (2011) 29. Baraka (1992) 30. Marco Polo (Netflix) 31. Tom Clancy's Jack RyanMedia, Tech & Institutions 32. CBS 33. ABC News 34. Claude (and Claude Pro) 35. Gemini 36. Ableton 37. Google Workspace (Sheets, Docs, etc.) 38. Line Budgeter (Stephen's platform)39. Movie Magic Budgeting 40. Final Draft 41. Kickstarter 42. Seed&Spark 43. AllThingsMakeIt.com 44. Nashville Film Festival 45. NPT (Nashville Public Television) 46. r/FilmTVBudgetingPlaces 47. San Rafael, California 48. Budapest, Hungary 49. Cambodia 50. Morocco 51. Thrilla in Manila 52. Novato, California 53. Fremont, California 54. Quad Cities / Davenport, Iowa 55. Skywalker Ranch 56. DGA Theater (part of the DGA)Wrestling & Guilds 57. WCW 58. WWE 59. WWF (World Wrestling Federation, now WWE)60. DGA – Directors Guild of America 61. PGA – Producers Guild of AmericaIndustry Roles & Concepts62. Line Producer 63. Unit Production Manager (UPM) 64. Second Unit Director 65. Executive Producer 66. Digital Imaging Technician (DIT) 67. Grip 68. Prints and Advertising (P&A) 69. Crowdfunding 70. Fiscal sponsorshipWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITwww.themakeitpodcast.store/shop/supportAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!In this episode, AI hosts Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness explore the unconventional career journey of indie filmmaker Jennica Schwartzman, examining how she built a successful multi-hyphenate creative life without sacrificing family or integrity. They discuss her rejection of traditional linear career models in favor of a fluid, chapter-based approach that integrates multiple roles as actor, producer, writer, and parent. The conversation reveals how her background as a pastor's kid shaped her performance skills and fearless approach to grassroots filmmaking.We also talk about:• How growing up in the 1990s evangelical church culture provided unexpected creative training • Practical strategies for making film sets parent-friendly through structural changes • The psychology of grassroots fundraising and community relationship building • Why filmmakers should never waste social capital on short films • The importance of execution over talent in building trust within creative industriesPeople, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:Jennica SchwartzmanPurpose Pictures ProductionsTMDB (The Movie Database)Parker's AnchorRidge RunnersGordon Family TreeXPK Podcast (Ex-Pastor-Kids, co-hosted with brother Marc Hampson)Movie Baking: The Indie Work-At-Home-Parent FilmmakerBehind the ScreensDCLAPromise KeepersFayetteville Travel CenterKickstarterWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITSubscribe: https://themakeitpodcast.store/shop/supportAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is brought to you by our e-book Mastering Film Marketing. Get your copy today at https://allthingsmakeit.com/collections/learnHello, Hello! In this episode, entertainment lawyer Elsa Ramo joins us to discuss the critical role of legal strategy in filmmaking and the entertainment industry. Ramo shares her journey from printing business cards at Kinko's to becoming a trusted advisor for major studios like Imagine Entertainment and production companies working on projects with Ron Howard, Ridley Scott, and Jude Law. The conversation covers everything from contract negotiations and creative deal-making to the impact of AI on the film industry and the importance of building relationships in Hollywood.We also talk about:• The difference between hiring a lawyer and the cost of not hiring one for independent creators• Whether filmmakers should hire an agent, manager, or lawyer first when starting their careers• How AI is transforming both content creation and legal services in the entertainment industry• The challenges of user-generated content versus traditional filmmaking in today's market• Key decision points in the filmmaking process where creators need legal consultationPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:Imagine EntertainmentRon HowardScott Free Productions (Ridley Scott)Universal Studios back lotMax (HBO Max)Cartoon NetworkCalifornia Lawyers for the ArtsFilm IndependentSundance Film FestivalCannes Film FestivalMarina del ReyLA East Side vs. West SideLisa FrankTMZDianna Russini & Mike VrabelChris Martin / Coldplay jumbotron incidentDon's PlumFather's OfficeThe CounterIn-N-Out BurgerThe Real Housewives of Orange CountyRamo Law PCWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!WHAT IS FILM BRIEF?Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking.BRIEF:In this episode, host Nick dives deep into Mortal Kombat II, exploring how the sequel successfully delivers on fan expectations through authentic combat, expanded mythology, and commitment to the franchise's core identity. The discussion examines how the film embraces its video game origins rather than apologizing for them, creating a spectacle that rewards longtime fans while demonstrating the evolution of video game adaptations in modern cinema. Nick analyzes the film's approach to character development, visual design, and fight choreography as a blueprint for successful franchise filmmaking.TAKEAWAYS:• Karl Urban's portrayal of Johnny Cage and the character's journey from washed-up action star to genuine hero • Martyn Ford's intimidating performance as Shao Kahn and the film's expanded character roster • Simon McQuoid direction and how it serves the existing fanbase rather than courting new audiences • The evolution of video game adaptations from niche entertainment to generational storytelling • How the film's visual design embraces fantasy over realism to create authentic arcade-inspired environmentsMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Mortal Kombat IIKarl Urban (Johnny Cage)Martyn Ford (Shao Kahn)Simon McQuoid (director)Jeremy Slater (screenwriter)Ed BoonJohn TobiasLiu KangSonya BladeJaxRaidenScorpionKitanaJadeBarakaSindelQuan ChiNoob SaibotEbook: "Mastering Film Marketing"The MAKE IT PodcastWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!In this episode, Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness explore the remarkable journey of writer, director, animator, and VFX artist Sevan Najarian, from his constrained upbringing in a strict Jehovah's Witness household in Modesto, California, to directing the crowdfunded animated feature film "Mars" for the legendary comedy troupe The Whitest Kids U Know. Through his story, we discover how limitations and community support can fuel extraordinary creative achievements, and examine the importance of human intention in an age of artificial intelligence. This deep dive reveals how a DIY spirit, honed through platforms like Channel 101, can lead to professional success while maintaining creative integrity.We also talk about:• The difference between SFX (practical special effects) and VFX (digital visual effects) • Channel 101's brutal but effective feedback loop for creative development • The toxic culture of big VFX houses versus television's constraint-driven efficiency • How the pandemic forced the Mars project from live-action to animation • The role of AI tools in creative work and why generative AI can't replace human intentionPeople, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:Sevan NajarianThe Whitest Kids U' KnowTrevor MooreZach CreggerSam BrownTimmy WilliamsDarren TrumeterChannel 101Dan HarmonRob SchrabJustin RoilandModesto Junior CollegeGeorge LucasAdobe After EffectsMidnight Kid StudiosHotel St. George, BrooklynMars (animated film)Tribeca Film FestivalClaudeThe Real Animated Adventures of Doc and MhartiBarbarianWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is brought to you by Anthropic. Claude is the AI for minds that don’t stop at good enough—it's the collaborator that actually understands your entire workflow and thinks WITH you, not for you. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude Pro when you use our link – www.claude.ai/makeitHello, Hello! In this episode, hosts Chris Barkley and Nicholas Buggs dive into current events ranging from recent political incidents to Kanye West's public apology, before exploring the massive success of the Michael Jackson biopic and what it reveals about Hollywood's "interest tent pole" strategy. They discuss how studios now greenlight films based on search trends and IP rather than storytelling merit, and examine the challenges facing independent filmmakers in today's market. The conversation concludes with insights from indie filmmakers Nick Corirossi and Armen Weitzman about their comedy "The Napa Boys" and how Hollywood has commoditized nostalgia at the expense of genuine storytelling.We also talk about:• The difference between what audiences want (horror) versus what they need (comedy) based on audience polling• How modern filmmaking has lost essential storytelling elements that create lasting nostalgia• The rise of "interest media" and how search algorithms influence film production decisions• Why physical newsletters and tangible media create deeper fan connections than digital alternatives• The challenge of maintaining artistic integrity while pursuing commercial success in independent filmmakingPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:People:Nick CorirossiArmen WeitzmanKanye West / YeJoe JacksonTaylor SwiftJay LenoDana WhiteJoe RoganTucker CarlsonDick GregoryNia LongJaafar JacksonCheryl HinesHenry Martínez BC (Brian Comer, Cards and Capes)Nick BarnesNate BargatzeDanielle VegaAndrew SchulzCompanies, Platforms & Organizations:Panini (trading cards)Magnolia Pictures  Lionsgate  NetflixA24USPS.Wall Street JournalSundance Film Festival Cannes Film Festival TIFF White House Secret ServiceUS Congress IMAX DolbyPodcasts, Shows & Internal Series:Mistakes in the Making (series on the MAKE IT Podcast)Films, TV, IP & Characters:The Napa Boys  Michael (biopic)  Project Hail Mary  Enemy Mine  Adult InterferenceTár  Oppenheimer The Passion of the Christ  Ghost  Super Troopers  American Pie  Buffy the Vampire Slayer  He-Man: Masters of the Universe  Rambo  RoboCop  The Goonies  Stand by Me  The Princess Bride  Snow White (2025 Disney remake)  Cruella De Vil  The Wicked Witch of the West  Thanos Street Fighter II  Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (concert film)Albums, Music & Artists: Kanye West – "Bully" My Beautiful Dark Twisted FantasyYeezusBooks & Concepts:Mastering Film Marketing (ebook) Project Hail Mary (novel)The Hero's Journey (Joseph Campbell)Documentaries & Upcoming Projects:Age of Disclosure Steven Spielberg's Disclosure Day Christopher Nolan's The OdysseyGames & Game-Based IP: Resident Evil Five Nights at Freddy's Backrooms (A24 film) Backrooms (liminal-space concept) Exit 8Concepts, Themes & Cultural References:White House Correspondents' DinnerDC SniperSerenity PrayerSeinfeld – "Serenity Now"MeToo MovementTourette SyndromeThe ManosphereOverton WindowFour-quadrant film Interest tentpoles — Chris's coined conceptLiner notesMAKE IT ShopWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://themakeitpodcast.storeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy