Filmmaker and Fan's Podcast
“Filmmaker and Fan’s" is a podcast for film lovers and creatives - where fandom meets film school. Episodes are designed around core conversations with Steven Bernstein, award-winning filmmaker (Monster, Kicking and Screaming, Waterboy, The Wood), and Vince Grimes, executive producer, and former head of creative at Google...and mega film fan. Episodes include deep-dive conversations between Steve and Vince into the heart of cinema and creativity, special guest interviews with creatives from every level of the independent and studio filmmaking world, and live workshops with independent and aspiring filmmakers. New episodes are published every Friday. Connect with us at: www...
"Scary Movie" Franchise
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the comedy franchise, "Scary Movie". Using Scary Movie as their foundation, they explore topics such as the role of farce and parody in comedy, managing chaos and collaboration during fast-paced shoots, and techniques for balancing realism and surrealism.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and creatives, where film school meets fandom.
Episodes are designed around core...
IndieMaker: Alexandra Robinson [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published August 8th, 2025, as episode 74]
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with first-time indie filmmaker Alexandra Robinson.
Using Alex’s recent short film (“Meatball”) as their foundation, they explore topics such as her transition from YouTube to professional filmmaking, the challenges of directing and acting simultaneously, and the significance of staying creative and open-minded in artistic endeavors.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcas...
Special Guest: Ian Arber [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published June 14th, 2024, as episode 14]
"In this week’s episode, Steve and Vince talk with award-winning film and TV composer Ian Arber. Ian's worked on everything from TV series (BBC, Netflix, Disney+, and more ) to award-winning documentaries and feature films.
He recently won Best Original Score - Documentary Series - for “Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All” at the Hollywood Music In Media Awards (HMMA) and was the composer for Steven’s upcoming film, GRQ."
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us...
Special Guest: Nathan Orloff [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published April 18th 2025, as episode 58]
In this episode, Steve talks with award-winning film editor Nathan Orloff. Nathan is an editor known for his work on recent films such as Saturday Night (2024), Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024), John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023), Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021), and Plan B (2021).
In their conversation, Steve and Nathan talk about Nathan’s recent work on the 2024 film, “Saturday Night”, and explore topics such as the importance of tracking character arcs in the film, the balance between exposition and emotion in editing, and the use of time as a narrative device...
Peter Debruge Returns
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince welcome back special guest and friend of the podcast, Peter Debruge, Chief Film Critic for Variety. In their conversation, they explore topics such as the current state of film festivals, particularly Sundance, the impact of streaming, and the importance of diverse voices in storytelling.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast, and remember to check out Steve's new book, "The Filmmaker's Book of Ten", available now at www.FilmmakersBookOfTen.com.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker a...
"AI in Filmmaking"
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince discuss the current state of AI in filmmaking and explore topics such as the integration of AI into film production, the significance of human connection in storytelling, and the future of independent film in the age of AI.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast, and remember to check out Steve's new book, "The Filmmaker's Book of Ten", available now at www.FilmmakersBookOfTen.com!
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a pod...
The Filmmaker's Book of Ten [NEW!]
Episode Summary
They're back! Sort of...
Steve and Vince will return from their hiatus in the next few weeks (some EXCITING news and updates coming soon!), but for now, Filmmaker and Fan's Media is excited to announce the launch of its very first book: The Filmmaker's Book of Ten!
In this special episode, Steve and Vince talk about The Filmmaker's Book of Ten, a newly released, high-impact resource packed with hard-earned lessons and practical advice for anyone working in film. Structured around simple, powerful lists of ten, this book covers the creative, technical...
Special Guest: Denise Parkinson [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published August 1st, 2025, as episode 73]
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with industry-leading entertainment marketing executive Denise Parkinson.
Denise is an industry expert in all aspects of entertainment marketing and is currently the Vice President of Business Development at Allied Global Marketing, a full-service marketing agency working with the world's largest entertainment and filmmaking brands.
Using Denise’s latest summer blockbuster campaigns as their foundation (like Superman!), they explore topics such as how marketing has evolved from grassroots to digital-first strategies, what indie filmmakers can learn fr...
"Lady Bird" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published February 9th, 2024 as episode 2]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2017 film "Lady Bird", written and directed by Greta Gerwig. Using “Lady Bird” as their foundation, they explore topics such as Greta Gerwig's transition from acting to directing, the importance of character development in storytelling, and the complex relationship dynamics in the award-winning film.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcas...
"Uncut Gems" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published April 26th, 2024 as episode 7]
In this episode, Steve and Vince have a conversation about the 2019 award-winning film, “Uncut Gems”. Using Uncut Gems as their foundation, they explore topics such as the collaborative partnership between Adam Sandler and the Safdie brothers, the search for like-minded individuals who can challenge and stimulate the artistic process, and the rejection of orthodoxies in favor of experimentation and exploration.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The...
Special Guest: Tony Solis [ re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published November 29th, 2024 as episode 38]
In this episode, Steve talks with award-winning Hollywood sound mixer Tony Solis.
Tony is an Emmy and CAS-winning re-recording mixer and is known for his work on films such as Woman of the Hour (2023), Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (2022), Hustle (2002), and Steve’s upcoming film, GRQ the Movie.
Steve and Tony explore topics such as the intricate process of sound mixing, including the roles of ADR, Foley, and sound design, the importance of sound in enhancing the overall quality of a film, an...
IndieMakers: Carl Fry & Maxwell Nalevansky [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published July 25th, 2024 as episode 72]
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with award-winning indie filmmaking duo, Carl Fry & Maxwell Nalevansky.
Using Carl and Maxwell’s latest indie feature film as their foundation (Rats!), they explore topics such as their journey in independent filmmaking as a creative team, the growing need for originality in filmmaking, and the significance of local communities in supporting independent cinema.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Ov...
"Sing Sing" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published August 23rd, 2024 as episode 24]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2023 film, “Sing Sing”.
Using Sing Sing as their foundation, they explore topics such as the benefits and challenges of working with non-actors, ethical considerations of portraying real-life stories, and the role of art in providing agency and reordering the world.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for fi...
IndieMaker: Ella Cannon [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published July 11th, 2025 as episode 70]
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with Australian actress and indie filmmaker, Ella Cannon.
Using Ella’s latest series pilot project as their foundation (“The Yacht Club”), they explore topics such as her experiences transitioning from acting to directing, the community impact of AI on the filmmaking industry, and her journey from a small town in Australia to becoming a working filmmaker in North America.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and In...
IndieMaker: Tony Mucci [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published June 27th, 2025 as episode 68]
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with Lego mega-fan and indie filmmaker, Tony Mucci - aka Mooch.
Using Tony’s latest project as their foundation, “Money Talks” (which recently premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival), they explore topics such as lessons he learned with his debut short film, the importance of collaboration and community in filmmaking, and Tony’s creative transition from making Lego stop motion animations and directing massive music videos, to narrative filmmaking and debuting at Tribeca.
As a reminder...
"Love Actually" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published May 17th, 2024 as episode 10]
In this episode of the Filmmaker and Fan’s podcast, Steve and Vince explore the 2003 film, “Love Actually”. Using Love Actually as their foundation, they explore topics such as the film's unspoken performances, managing tone across multiple plot lines, and how Love Actually can provide a sense of order and satisfaction in a chaotic world.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Episode Notes
Episode Summary
[Re-rele...
"The Outrun" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published October 25th, 2024 as episode 33]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2024 film, “The Outrun”.
Using The Outrun as their foundation, they explore topics such as the challenges of adapting source material, the role of art in understanding complex themes such as addiction and recovery, and the balance between artistic interpretation and historical accuracy.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Episode Notes
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published Octo...
IndieMaker: Luca Pizzoleo [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published July 18th, 2025 as episode 71]
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with award-winning indie filmmaker Luca Pizzoleo.
Using Luca’s latest short film as their foundation (“O.C.D.” starring Steven Ogg), they explore topics such as his latest challenges as an indie filmmaker, his digital-first strategy that earned O.C.D. over 1 million views on YouTube in just two weeks, and the rapidly evolving landscape of independent filmmaking today.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and In...
"Wicked" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published December 20th, 2024 as episode 41]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2024 film, “Wicked”.
Using Wicked as their foundation, they explore topics such as the intimate relationship between directors and actors, the importance of costumes in building the world of Oz, and the crucial role of industry film screenings during awards season.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts, and Instagram @filmmakersandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for fi...
"Glengarry Glen Ross" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published April 4th, 2025 as episode 56]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 1992 film, “Glengarry Glen Ross”.
Using Glengarry Glen Ross as their foundation, they explore topics such as David Mamet's distinctive writing style, the moral complexities of the film’s characters, and its masterful use of language and performance.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts, and Instagram @filmmakersandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and crea...
"Alien" Franchise [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published September 13th, 2024 as episode 27]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the sci-fi franchise, “Alien”. Using the Alien franchise as their foundation, they explore topics such as the challenges of making sci-fi films, the difference between psychological and physical horror, and the integration of deep philosophical questions into commercially successful projects.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and cr...
"A Complete Unknown" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published December 27th, 2024 as episode 42]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2024 film, “A Complete Unknown,” written and directed by James Mangold.
Using A Complete Unknown as their foundation, they explore topics such as the significance of underplayed moments in the film, the complexity of artistic influence and the nature of inspiration, and how the film transcends a mere biography of Dylan and instead offers a deep commentary on art and creativity.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Appl...
"Amélie" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published March 1st, 2024 as episode 5]
In this episode, Steve and Vince discuss the 2001 award-winning film, “Amélie”. Using Amélie as their foundation, they explore topics such as the wide-ranging narrative techniques used in the film, the power of intuition in filmmaking, and the role of humor in building connections with audiences.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and crea...
"The Brutalist" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published January 17th, 2025 as episode 45]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2024 film, “The Brutalist”.
Using The Brutalist as their foundation, they explore topics such as the broader implications of art and cinema, the dynamics between investors and artists, and the intricate details of cinematic techniques from the film, like the use of VistaVision and its impact on film quality.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Film...
"Inside Llewyn Davis" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published May 31st, 2024 as episode 12]
In this episode, Steve and Vince discuss the 2013 film, “Inside Llewyn Davis” (written and directed by The Coen Brothers). Using Inside Llewyn Davis as their foundation they explore topics such as artistic integrity, the role of supporting characters in narrative depth, and the underestimation of audiences.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and creati...
"Deadpool and Wolverine" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published August 2nd, 2024 as episode 21]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2024 Marvel movie, “Deadpool & Wolverine”.
Using Deadpool & Wolverine as their foundation they explore topics such as the impact of Marvel and superhero movies on Hollywood, the appeal of anti-heroes, and the importance of flawed and relatable characters.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and creati...
"Nickel Boys" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published February 7th, 2025 as episode 48]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2024 film, “Nickel Boys”. Using Nickel Boys as their foundation, they explore topics such as the challenges of adaptations versus original screenplays, the artistic choices that filmmakers make to convey deeper truths, and the courage required to break conventional filmmaking norms. As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and creati...
"My Old Ass" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published October 18th, 2024 as episode 32]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2024 film, “My Old Ass”.
Using "My Old Ass" as their foundation, they explore topics such as nuances of independent cinema, the significance of creating relatable characters, and the importance of subtext and nuance in performances.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and creatives, where...
Special Guest: Justin Yates [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published August 16th, 2024 as episode 23]
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with Hollywood film and VFX editor, Justin Yates. Justin is known for his work on films such as Avatar: The Way of Water, Alita: Battle Angel, The Nice Guys, and San Andreas. Most recently Justin was the editor on Steve’s new film GRQ, and they use their recent collaboration to explore topics such as the relationship between directors and editors, the role of editing in creating emotional impact in films, and the future of editing with the integration of...
Scene Study: "Conclave" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published January 3rd, 2025 as episode 43]
In this episode, Steve and Vince break down the opening scenes of the 2024 film “Conclave,” and explore topics such as the importance of opening scenes in establishing a film's world, the use of symbolism and cutaways to enhance storytelling, and how sound design plays a crucial role in creating atmosphere.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for fi...
Scene Study: "Anora" [re-release]
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince break down the opening scenes of the 2024 Oscar-winning film, “Anora”, and explore topics such as Sean Baker's unique approach to character development, visual storytelling techniques, and the importance of maintaining an integrity of vision in filmmaking.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and creatives, where film school meets fandom.
Episodes are designed around core convers...
"The Studio" [re-release]
Episode Summary
[Re-release: originally published March 28th, 2025 as episode 55]
In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 2025 Apple series, “The Studio”, starring Seth Rogen, Catherine O'Hara, Ike Barinholtz, and Kathryn Hahn.
Using The Studio as their foundation, they explore topics such as the intersection of art and commerce in Hollywood, how cinematic techniques, such as lens choices, can significantly impact storytelling, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a commercial environment.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Se...
IndieMaker: Alexandra Robinson
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with first-time indie filmmaker Alexandra Robinson.
Using Alex’s recent short film (“Meatball”) as their foundation, they explore topics such as her transition from YouTube to professional filmmaking, the challenges of directing and acting simultaneously, and the significance of staying creative and open-minded in artistic endeavors.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and creative...
Special Guest: Denise Parkinson
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with industry-leading entertainment marketing executive Denise Parkinson.
Denise is an industry expert in all aspects of entertainment marketing and is currently the Vice President of Business Development at Allied Global Marketing, a full-service marketing agency working with the world's largest entertainment and filmmaking brands.
Using Denise’s latest summer blockbuster campaigns as their foundation (like Superman!), they explore topics such as how marketing has evolved from grassroots to digital-first strategies, what indie filmmakers can learn from blockbuster campaigns like Barbie and F1, and actionable ta...
IndieMakers: Carl Fry & Maxwell Nalevansky
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with award-winning indie filmmaking duo, Carl Fry & Maxwell Nalevansky.
Using Carl and Maxwell’s latest indie feature film as their foundation (Rats!), they explore topics such as their journey in independent filmmaking as a creative team, the growing need for originality in filmmaking, and the significance of local communities in supporting independent cinema.
If you're enjoying this podcast, please follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film love...
IndieMaker: Luca Pizzoleo
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with award-winning indie filmmaker Luca Pizzoleo.
Using Luca’s latest short film as their foundation (“O.C.D.” starring Steven Ogg), they explore topics such as his latest challenges as an indie filmmaker, his digital-first strategy that earned O.C.D. over 1 million views on YouTube in just two weeks, and the rapidly evolving landscape of independent filmmaking today.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Fi...
IndieMaker: Ella Cannon
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with Australian actress and indie filmmaker, Ella Cannon.
Using Ella’s latest series pilot project as their foundation (“The Yacht Club”), they explore topics such as her experiences transitioning from acting to directing, the community impact of AI on the filmmaking industry, and her journey from a small town in Australia to becoming a working filmmaker in North America.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.
Series Overview
The Fi...
Special Guest: Ernest Dickerson (Returns)
Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve and Vince welcome back the one, the only, the award-winning director and cinematographer, and friend of the podcast, Ernest Dickerson.
Ernest is an American film director and cinematographer. As a cinematographer, he's known for his frequent collaborations with Spike Lee in films such as Do The Right Thing and Malcolm X. As a director, he's known for films such as Juice, Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight, and Never Die Alone. He's also directed acclaimed television series such as The Wire, Dexter, and The Walking Dead.
Using...
IndieMaker: Tony Mucci (aka Mooch)
Episode Summary
We’ve got Mooch! In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with Lego mega-fan and indie filmmaker, Tony Mucci - aka Mooch.
Using Tony’s latest project as their foundation, “Money Talks” (which recently premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival), they explore topics such as lessons he learned with his debut short film, the importance of collaboration and community in filmmaking, and Tony’s creative transition from making Lego stop motion animations and directing massive music videos, to narrative filmmaking and debuting at Tribeca.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, f...
Special Guest: Peter Debruge at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival
Episode Summary
We’re back from our pre-summer break with an all-new episode this week!
In this episode, Steve catches up with friend of the podcast Peter Debruge, Chief Film Critic at Variety, while Peter was at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.
Using the festival as their foundation, they explore topics such as the celebration of films and the significance of standing ovations at Cannes, the intricate relationship between American and French cinema, and Peter’s favorite (and not-so-favorite) screenings from this year’s official selections.
As a reminder, if you're enjoying this po...