Filmmaker and Fan's Podcast

Episode Summary

Hey everyone! We're taking a few weeks off for summer projects and rest here in Austin and Los Angeles. We'll be back on July 3rd with an all-new episode and some exciting summer 2026 announcements. Until then, head on over to www.filmmakersbookoften.com and pick up a copy of our new book, The Filmmaker's Book of Ten - it makes a great summer read. ; ) See ya soon! 

Series Overview

“Filmmaker and Fan’s" is a podcast for film lovers and creatives. 

Episodes are designed around core conversations with Steven Bernst...

Episode Summary

[Re-release: originally published October 11th, 2024, as episode 31]

In this week’s episode, Steve and Vince break down a scene from the 2002 film “Catch Me If You Can” and explore topics such as the intricacies of directing dialogue-driven scenes, the importance of tension and stakes in storytelling, and the role of patience and listening in acting.

As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast. And check out our new book, The Filmmaker's Book of Ten, at www.FilmmakersBookOfTen.com. 

Series...

Episode Summary

[Re-release: originally published February 1st, 2024, as Filmmaker and Fan's inaugural episode]

In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 1954 film classic "Rear Window", directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Using the Hitchcock classic as their foundation, they talk about everything from understanding your craft as a director to the subjective nature of art.

As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast. And check out our new book, The Filmmaker's Book of Ten, at www.FilmmakersBookOfTen.com. 

Series Overview

“Fil...

Episode Summary

[Re-release: originally published June 21st, 2024, as episode 15]

In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with award-winning director and cinematographer Ernest Dickerson.

As a cinematographer, Ernest is known for his frequent collaborations with Spike Lee on films such as “Do The Right Thing” and “Malcolm X”. As a director, he’s known for films such as “Juice” (1992) and “Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight” (1995), and has also directed episodes of acclaimed television series such as Once Upon a Time (2011), The Wire (2002), Dexter (2006), and The Walking Dead (2010). 

Series Overview

“Filmmaker and Fan’s"...

Episode Summary

[Re-release: originally published July 5th, 2024, as episode 17]

In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with actor, writer, and comedian Tom Walker.

Tom is an English actor and comedian best known for playing the viral sensation Jonathan Pie, a fictional news reporter who rants and raves to the camera about the state of modern politics. His viral videos have given rise to live tours, a BBC online stand-up show, Jonathan Pie: Back To The Studio, and a BBC Three comedy mockumentary, Jonathan Pie's American Pie. Tom and Steve also recently worked together...

Episode Summary

In this episode, Steve and Vince explore the 1976 film, “All the President's Men”.

Using All the President's Men as their foundation, they explore topics such as cinematography and shot composition techniques, creating tension without traditional action elements, and the impact of technology on storytelling.

As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast. And check out our new book, The Filmmaker's Book of Ten, at www.FilmmakersBookOfTen.com. 

Series Overview

The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podca...

Episode Summary

In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with Austin-based indie filmmaking duo William Magnuson & Max Perkins.

Using Will and Max's latest short film as their foundation (The Busboy), they explore topics such as community support in film production, practical effects and visual storytelling techniques, and their journey from high school film projects to creating their latest dystopian short film.

As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast. And check out our new book, The Filmmaker's Book of Ten, at www...

Episode Summary

In this episode, Vince talks with film financing expert Sean Rappleyea.

Using Sean’s recent financing projects as their foundation, they explore topics such as common misconceptions in film financing, the importance of relationships to investors, and innovative approaches to funding and distribution in today's evolving market.

As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast, and check out our new book, The Filmmaker's Book of Ten, at www.FilmmakersBookOfTen.com. 

Series Overview

The Filmmaker and Fan’s Pod...

Episode Summary

In this (bite-sized) episode, Vince introduces a new FAF segment, sharing top headlines and insights from the film and entertainment industry for April 2026. He covers labor negotiations, studio restructuring, major film releases, and industry trends for the week of April 2-9.

As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast, and check out our new book, The Filmmaker's Book of Ten, at www.FilmmakersBookOfTen.com. 

Series Overview

The Filmmaker and Fan’s Podcast is a podcast for film lovers and...

In this episode, Vince explores two of his favorite sections from The Filmmaker's Book of Ten through Christopher Nolan's "Inception" and Damien Chazelle's "La La Land".

Using the official screenplays for both Inception and La La Land as his foundation, Vince explores topics such as the importance of mystery in screenwriting, how understanding different filmmaking languages enhances the storytelling craft, and essential directing and screenwriting tips every filmmaker should know.

As a reminder, if you're enjoying this podcast, feel free to follow us on Apple Podcasts and Instagram @filmmakerandfanspodcast.

New episodes are...

Episode Summary

In this episode, Steve and Vince talk with documentary filmmaker Chip Mabry

Using Chip’s recent documentary as their foundation ("Karaoke from Hell"), they explore topics such as his journey from television news to independent filmmaking, the challenges and creative decisions involved in producing documentaries on a budget, and the unique aspects of editing documentaries compared to narrative films.

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 po...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...