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The MAKE IT Podcast: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
MAKE IT is the film podcast that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process. We dive into indie gems, massive blockbusters, cinema history, and everything in between. If you love movies and want more than polite chit-chat, this is your spot.Stay Inspired, Chris + Nick
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- 1 weeks ago1h 59m
437 - Stephen Marinaccio DGA UPM & Line Producer - What It Really Takes to Make a $100M Film, Lessons from 80+ International Projects, and How to Budget Like a Pro
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. <a href="https://www.imdb.com/t
- 1 weeks ago19 min
SUMMARIES - Jennica Schwartzman - How to Build a Multi-Hyphenate Career Without Sacrificing Your Family
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
- 3 weeks ago1h 36m
436 - Elsa Ramo - Entertainment Lawyer & Strategist - Why Entertainment Lawyers Need to Be in LA, The Hidden Costs of Not Hiring an Entertainment Lawyer, and Creative Vision vs. Commercial Reality
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 Vrabel (see note)Chris Martin / Coldplay jumbotron incident (see note)Don'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
- 3 weeks ago10 min
Mortal Kombat II | Why Mortal Kombat II Works (Film Review)
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
- 3 weeks ago13 min
SUMMARIES - Sevan Najarian - How Crowdfunding and Community Rallied to Save 'Mars'
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
- May 1, 20261h 48m
435 - Kanye Deserves More Credit, Jaafar Jackson’s “Michael” Performance, “Interest Tentpoles” and a Chat with The Napa Boys, Nick Corirossi & Armen Weitzman
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:<a
- Apr 29, 20267 min
LOCKS by Ryan Coogler (Movie Review)
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 Film Brief, Nick explores a young Black man's journey through his Oakland neighborhood to a barbershop. The episode examines how this student film showcased Coogler's early mastery of visual storytelling and cultural representation, serving as a foundation for his later acclaimed works. Through detailed analysis, Buggs demonstrates how "Locks" proves that meaningful filmmaking doesn't require massive budgets, just precision, intention, and authentic storytelling.TAKEAWAYS:• The power of symbolism and visual narrative in short films • How limited resources can strengthen rather than weaken a film's impact • The importance of short films as training grounds for emerging filmmakers • Community support and collaboration in independent filmmaking • The connection between early student work and future Hollywood successMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Ryan Coogler (director)Locks (2009)Oakland, CaliforniaUniversity of Southern CaliforniaFruitvale Station (2013)CreedBlack PantherSundance Film FestivalSundance Grand Jury PrizeSundance Audience AwardEbook: "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. #MAKEITAll Links: www.themakeitpodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
- Apr 28, 202618 min
SUMMARIES - Robert Broadhurst - The Ethics of White Filmmakers Addressing Race: Boundaries and Responsibility
Hello, Hello!In this episode, Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness explore filmmaker Robert Broadhurst's dramatic career pivot from directing high-end luxury commercials for brands like Armani and Yeezy to creating minimalist, confrontational cinema designed to expose audience biases. They examine how his film "An Occurrence at Arvern" functions as a psychological Rorschach test, forcing viewers to confront their own internalized assumptions about race in America. The discussion reveals how cultural timing and geography dramatically affected the film's reception, transforming it from "pointless" to "essential" without changing a single frame.We also talk about:• Broadhurst's unconventional journey from suburban Connecticut to Columbia University MFA to commercial success • His technical background in editing and how it shaped his visual storytelling approach • The ethical boundaries he maintained during production, including refusing funding to ensure proper representation • His philosophy on surviving as an artist in capitalist systems like New York City • The role of physical movement in creative problem-solving and breakthrough momentsPeople, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:Robert BroadhurstChange the Narrative with JD Fuller (YouTube)JD FullerCurtiss Cook Jr.Charles Hayes IV (see note)Quentin TarantinoKanye WestGeorge FloydConnecticutChicagoBostonEast CoastQueens, New YorkArverne, Queens (see note)England, UKColumbia UniversityGhostbusters (1984)An Occurrence at ArverneAn Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge (1962)Armani BeautyAdidas Y-3Alexander WangYeezyVimeoWe 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
About The MAKE IT Podcast
MAKE IT is the film podcast that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process. We dive into indie gems, massive blockbusters, cinema history, and everything in between. If you love movies and want more than polite chit-chat, this is your spot.Stay Inspired, Chris + Nick
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