Cinematic Alchemy

We’ve hit 50 episodes, and exactly one year since the podcast launched.

This episode is a bit of a heart to heart.

No guests, no case studies, just us reflecting on the wild ride of building this show, growing our careers, and learning (a lot) along the way.

We talk about how the podcast helped us grow more confident, figure out what we actually want to do in the film world, and stay connected during some tough times.

We also share the advice that stuck with us from our guests, from ma...

In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of our latest project.

We explain what an ident is (those quick sponsor clips before a TV show), why they’re harder to make than they look, and how we managed to tell a mini story in just five to ten seconds.

This was also our first time working closely together on set, and it came with tight deadlines, strict rules, and a few creative challenges.

If you're curious about the real work that goes into high-profile content like this, tune in! 

In this episode, we’re diving into the behind-the-scenes of creating promotional book trailers for Lisa Jewell’s Don’t Let Him In. 

We share how our team turned this gripping crime thriller into cinematic teasers without giving away any spoilers, and the unexpected production challenges we faced - including last-minute casting changes and shooting 48 slates in one day. 

We also chat about communicating with clients under pressure, what makes book trailers so uniquely tricky, and how to visually capture mystery and menace. 

If you’ve ever wondered how books come alive on screen befo...

This week on the podcast, we’re continuing our deep dive into short form filmmaking with Harry Norton.

We talk about the emotional themes, the early writing process, and what it’s like to move from a loose idea to a fully developed pre-production phase.

We also touch on how daunting it can be to get started with a creative project - especially when you know the resources, time and energy it’ll take to pull it off.

The conversation goes beyond just craft. We get honest about creative anxiety, perfectionism, and what it mea...

This week, we’re talking about short form filmmaking with returning guest Harry Norton. From micro shorts to five-minute narratives, we explore what makes these projects both uniquely difficult and completely essential for honing your craft.

We talk about why short films are their own distinct medium, not just a smaller version of something bigger. Every second counts, so how do you write, shoot and edit in a way that serves the story without wasting a moment?

Amber shares the process behind her upcoming micro short, Siren Song, and how it went from five pages to...

In this episode, we dive into something we both love talking about mise en scène - the mood, the energy, the intention behind what we see on screen. 

If you’ve ever wondered how filmmakers create a world that just feels right - this is the episode for you.

We explore how visuals tell their own story: lighting, colour, wardrobe, even the way a space is designed. It’s not about having a massive budget - it’s about making thoughtful, intentional choices that support the emotion you want your audience to feel. 

We also...

We’re back for part two of our deep dive into the softer (but no less vital) side of filmmaking - leadership, management, and all things organisation. 

If you’ve ever wondered how to strike the balance between managing a project and becoming that micromanager, this one’s for you.

We unpack how trust, empathy, boundaries, and delegation can transform a chaotic set into a smooth, respectful, and actually enjoyable working environment. Plus, a reminder that leadership isn't about being the boss - it’s about showing up, communicating well, and being someone your team can trust...

Ever found yourself in a creative project thinking, “Wait, why is this so chaotic?” You’re not alone.

In this episode, we dive into the behind-the-scenes magic that makes film projects actually function - communication, organisation, leadership, and yes, those so-called “soft skills”.

We chat about what real leadership looks like, how communication can make or break a production, and why being human - and treating others like humans - really matters. 

Whether you're heading up a team or just trying to get your files in order, this one’s for you. Let’s get into it.<...

This week, we’re chatting with Millan, the writer and director of Nothing But Blue, a powerful short film. 

Millan takes us behind the scenes of his emotionally gripping story about two Jewish people hiding during the Holocaust, told in a beautifully subtle way that focuses on humanity and hope amidst despair.

We dive into everything - from the unique filming location above a pub, to the deep research Milan did to honour the story authentically, including drawing inspiration from Anne Frank’s diary. 

Millan also opens up about the challenges and emotions on set...

In this episode, we’re joined by composer and filmmaker John Parr for a heartfelt conversation about storytelling, music, and representation in film. 

John shares the inspiration behind his latest project Pack of Five, which brings the story of Welsh poet Hedd Wyn to life through powerful visuals and a moving choral soundtrack. 

We talk about the emotional depth of Welsh music, the magic of sincerity on screen, and how creative choices leave lasting impressions. 

John also opens up about his previous experience working with disabled filmmakers, the importance of authentic representation, and his t...

In this episode, we're diving into the magical - and often chaotic - world of book-to-screen adaptations. 

From the faithful beauty of The Lord of the Rings to the… loosely inspired World War Z, we’re breaking down what makes an adaptation shine or flop. 

We also touch on video game adaptations like The Last of Us, Super Mario Bros, and Arcane, and discuss how some shows and films have outshined their original source material entirely.

Here are the highlights:

Faithful vs. Interpretative Adaptations (2:11)

Video Game Adaptations (10:17)

Super...

Let’s talk about diversity in casting - beyond the tick boxes and token roles. In this episode, we get into what real representation actually looks like in film and TV, why it matters for storytelling, and how authenticity changes everything. 

From Bridgerton to Hamilton to the backlash around Percy Jackson, we’re sharing our honest takes, casting wins, and the industry gaps that still need addressing. 

If you care about inclusive stories that reflect the full human experience, this chat’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Defining Diversity in Casting...

In this week’s episode, Amber and I continue our no-fluff chat about casting - what’s working, what still needs work, and the invisible stuff no one tells you about until you're in it. 

We’re talking about the emotional toll of rejection, the rise of intimacy coordinators post-Me Too, and why casting is more like matchmaking than box-ticking.

We also get real about boundaries, the power of unions, and how small moments of clarity (or miscommunication) can make or break the experience for everyone involved. 

Whether you're a director, actor, or just som...

In this episode, we are pulling back the curtain on the casting process - warts, wonders, awkward self-tapes, and all. 

From open casting calls that start at 4am to the power of a well-timed chemistry read, we’re sharing what we’ve learned from sitting on both sides of the table: actor and director.

We talk about why the energy you bring to a self-tape really matters, what makes a performance stand out, and why casting isn’t just about the “right look” - it’s about collaboration, interpretation, and connection. 

If you’ve ever felt the...

In this nostalgic-meets-nerdy episode, we go all in on one of our favourite filmmaking obsessions: practical effects. 

From the animatronic shark in Jaws to painted backdrops, set illusions, and that iconic roller-skating moment from Chaplin - we explore how filmmakers have been bending reality long before VFX took over.

We also share stories from our own sets, from space ships made of staples to sets running on three timelines at once (organised chaos, anyone?). 

Whether you're a film student, an indie creator, or just love a good behind-the-scenes peek, this episode is packed wi...

Ever wondered how actors make stage fights look so real without actually getting hurt? In this episode, we chat with fight and intimacy director Robin Hellier, who pulls back the curtain on what really goes into choreographing physical storytelling.

Robin breaks down how character, story, safety, and collaboration all come together in fight scenes - and why planning ahead is key. 

We talk about the joy (and chaos) of spinning stages, how camera angles can lie beautifully, and why every fight tells a story beyond the action. 

If you love film, theatre, or ju...

What happens when the police stop using scare tactics and start using humour? 

In this episode, we break down New Zealand’s “Legend” campaign, an anti-drink driving ad that ditched the doom and gloom for Kiwi comedy - and actually worked. 

The ad took a fresh approach by leaning into relatability, social pressure, and self-aware humour to connect with young drivers instead of lecturing them.

We explore how the campaign nailed its target audience, used film techniques like Dutch angles and POV shots to amplify the storytelling, and proved that public service announcements don’t ha...

In this week’s episode, we break down the infamous Snickers Super Bowl commercial that digitally resurrected Marilyn Monroe - except this time, she’s hangry and played by Willem Dafoe. 

It’s a bold, bizarre, and undeniably memorable ad, but does it cross the ethical line of “digital necromancy”?

We explore how the ad successfully ties nostalgia, humour, and product messaging together, while also raising questions about the use of AI to bring back iconic actors. 

Plus, we discuss what makes a truly effective Super Bowl ad and whether Snickers pulled it off better t...

The Oscars are more than just a night of glitz and glamour—they’re a reflection of the ever-evolving film industry. 

In this episode, we unpack the highlights of the 97th Academy Awards, from surprise wins to historic moments. With ITV hosting for UK audiences and Jonathan Ross adding his own spin, this year’s show felt different, and we’re breaking down what worked and what didn’t.

We also explore the unpredictability of this year’s winners and how the Academy is changing its approach to categories, nominations, and representation. Plus, we debate whether the O...

What makes a great social awareness campaign actually work? 

In this episode, we break down Hindustan Unilever’s award-winning short film, "The Shower", the first advertisement to win a National Film Award in India. 

Through stunning visuals and powerful storytelling, this film highlights water scarcity in Rajasthan without resorting to guilt-driven narratives. But does it truly create impact?

We analyse its cinematic choices, the effectiveness of its messaging, and whether its polished production helps or hinders its authenticity. Plus, we debate the fine line between emotional engagement and overproduction in social impact advertising. 

...

What happens when one of the most iconic TV shows of all time gets turned into a Super Bowl ad?

In this episode, we break down the Breaking Bad x PopCorners commercial, featuring Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, and Raymond Cruz, all under the direction of Vince Gilligan himself. 

But does it work as an ad, or is it just a fun nostalgia trip?

We analyse how this commercial masterfully recreates the Breaking Bad aesthetic, balances humour with fan service, and cleverly integrates product placement (maybe a little too much). 

Plus, we de...

La La Land is one of those films that looks like a classic romance on the surface-but then flips everything you expect on its head. 

In this episode, Amber is back and we’re unpacking what makes this movie so visually stunning, emotionally charged, and genre-bending. From its vibrant old-Hollywood aesthetics to that bittersweet ending that left audiences torn, we’re breaking down how La La Land plays with cinematic conventions to create something fresh.

We’re also talking about why the film’s subversion of romance tropes works so well (or doesn’t, depending on who you...

What makes an ad unforgettable? In this episode, we break down the brilliance of Life is Short, a HBO commercial featuring the legendary James Gandolfini channeling his iconic Tony Soprano energy. 

With dark humour, masterful cinematography, and an ironic life-insurance message, this ad blurs the line between satire and marketing genius.

We analyse how the ad balances comedy and crime drama, why Gandolfini’s presence elevates the storytelling, and whether the campaign’s subtlety hurt its effectiveness. 

If you love dissecting commercials that push creative boundaries, this episode is packed with insights on what m...

What happens when you put a comedic legend like Eugene Levy in the driver’s seat of a high-octane action film? 

In this episode, we dissect Nissan’s thrilling Super Bowl ad, Thrill Driver, starring Levy and a powerhouse cast including Catherine O’Hara, Dave Bautista, and Brie Larson. 

We break down how the ad flips traditional car commercial tropes by using Levy’s everyman charm to create an unforgettable, action-packed narrative.

From clever cinematic choices to subtle character evolution, we’ll explore why this ad hits all the right notes for engagement and relatabi...

What makes an ad iconic—or forgettable? In this episode, Baltasar Cuellar joins me to break down Amazon’s “Alexa Lost Her Voice” Super Bowl commercial. 

We explore the impact of its star-studded cast, the production value, and whether playing it safe was a missed opportunity. 

From Gordon Ramsay to Cardi B, the ad uses humour and celebrity personas to engage viewers, but does it leave a lasting impression?

We also discuss the balance between creativity and efficiency in advertising, why cultural relevance matters, and how brands like Apple and Jaguar have nailed it in the...

Ever wondered what it takes to create music that shapes a story? In this episode, I’m joined by Eleanor Fineston-Robertson, a London-based composer and sound designer, to uncover the magic behind film scores. 

From evoking nostalgia with piano to building suspense with brass, Eleanor shares how each instrument serves the narrative and enhances the emotional depth of a scene.

We also explore her unique workflow—immersing herself in characters' psyches like a method actor—and her passion for blending acoustic and electronic sounds to craft unforgettable atmospheres. 

Whether you’re a film buff, a cr...

In this episode, we chat with costume maker Anne Thomson, fondly known in the industry as Bam, about her incredible career crafting costumes for theatre and film. 

From period dramas to superhero suits, Anne shares what it’s like to turn 2D designs into wearable art while juggling tight deadlines and the occasional curveball from producers. We also explore the magic of teamwork in bringing these creative visions to life, even when it means late nights and last-minute adjustments.

Anne opens up about her journey into the industry, the skills it takes to thrive, and her...

In this episode, we’re joined by filmmaker Harry Norton for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of his short film Under Heavy Lead. 

From writing and directing to taking on unexpected production roles, Harry shares the realities of bringing his ambitious Gulf War-inspired story to life. He dives into the challenges of building a tank set from scratch and the creative problem-solving required when time, budget, and heatwave chaos collide.

We also talk about the lessons learned through sheer determination and a “just keep going” mindset. Whether you’re a creative tackling your own big p...

In this episode, we sit down with the brilliant Amie Page, a freelance production assistant and producer, as we peel back the curtain on creating a standout marketing campaign for None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell.

From balancing client visions with budgets and priorities to perfecting the often-overlooked details like on-set food logistics, Amie reveals how her passion for problem-solving drives her success.

We also talk about the highs and lows of freelance filmmaking, the importance of work-life balance, and how to measure success beyond career milestones.

If you’re in a...

In this episode, we’re joined by Harry Norton, first assistant director, filmmaker, and Dungeons and Dragons enthusiast, as he shares what it really takes to keep a film set running smoothly. 

Harry breaks down the role of a first AD — from juggling logistics, team coordination, and time management to keeping a director’s vision alive while ensuring the project stays on track (and on budget). It’s part skill, part intuition, and a whole lot of trust.

We also dive into the teamwork behind the scenes and how tight-knit AD crews often rely on mutual re...

In this episode, we unravel the magic behind Waitrose’s “Sweet Suspicion” Christmas campaign, exploring how it masterfully combined mystery, humour, and a star-studded cast to captivate audiences.

With iconic tropes from the crime genre and a clever episodic format, this ad campaign made holiday pudding the victim in a whodunnit everyone wanted to solve.

We’ll discuss the brilliant use of visual cues, suspense-building, and character dynamics that kept viewers guessing—and commenting.

Whether you're a budding writer or just curious about what makes an ad stand out, this episode is packed with insig...

This episode takes you behind the scenes of filmmaking with Thomas Bickley, a freelance script supervisor who's worked with everyone from the BBC to Disney. We chat about the intricacies of script supervision, from ensuring continuity to being the “second brain” for directors and editors.

Thomas shares how his role ties together the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking while shedding light on how he balances the pressures of the job with the joys of storytelling.

Whether you’re curious about the nitty-gritty of on-set problem-solving or looking for insights into navigating the film industry as a f...

Sitcoms have a special place in our hearts for their mix of relatable situations and laugh-out-loud moments. In this episode, we break down what makes a sitcom a sitcom—from its early roots in the golden age of television to its ongoing evolution as a storytelling format.

But it’s not just about the laughs. Sitcoms have a way of sneaking in life lessons, from navigating friendships with different financial dynamics to showing diverse approaches to parenting. We chat about why these shows are endlessly rewatchable and how their character arcs keep us coming back for more.

In this episode, we sit down with Khalif Sultan, a film colourist with a unique approach to visual storytelling. Khalif opens up about the fascinating, often overlooked world of colour grading in film, sharing insights on how colour can shape emotions, direct audience focus, and even hint at story twists.

We discuss his creative process, from collaborating with directors to creating palettes that resonate with a film's tone, while navigating the challenges of working across international time zones.

Khalif also offers some advice for anyone in a creative field, including the importance of setting boundaries...

In this episode, we’re joined by Tripti Rai, who’s here to pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to work behind the scenes in film production.

We laugh about some of the unexpected moments on set and chat about the surprising ways each role can change depending on the day.

Tripti explains what sets a great production manager apart, especially the juggling act between creativity and logistics that keeps the whole project from going off the rails.

Whether you’re new to production or a seasoned pro, this episode...

In this Halloween special of Cinematic Alchemy, we’re joined by Syd for a deep dive into all things spooky!

Syd shares their journey into horror, from the first movie that hooked them to why they’re drawn to the genre’s mix of suspense, thrill, and catharsis. We also chat about the appeal of horror in film, how it lets us confront our fears in a safe, controlled environment and pushes boundaries to create moments that linger. 

Happy Halloween! 

Here are the highlights

(03:26) Personal Connections to Horror and Halloween

(07:30...

In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we’re diving into an amazing live-action version of My Hero Academia made by a talented group of stunt performers. They’ve managed to bring the fast, action-packed style of the anime to life with clever editing and incredible fight choreography.

We’ll talk about how they pulled off superpowers and intense fight scenes without using much dialogue or special effects. From smart camera work to seamless transitions, this episode is full of creative tips for filmmakers. Whether you love anime or just want to learn more about film techniques, this one’s...

In this episode, I’m excited to have guest host Nick Peter Yee join me as we unpack the clever advertising strategy behind the recent ASICs ad featuring the legendary Brian Cox.

We explore how the ad cleverly leverages character iconography to engage viewers and spark a conversation about the art of storytelling in marketing!

Join us as we break down the ad’s subtle yet effective storytelling techniques and discuss the impact of celebrity personas on brand marketing.

Here are the highlights

(01:12)  ASICS Ad Featuring Brian Cox

(09:34) Comparison with...

In this episode, we’re talking all things music videos!

We discuss the behind the scenes of creating music videos, from the challenges of directing a first music video to exploring the creative freedom that comes with this art form, we cover it all.

We also break down the unique visual storytelling that goes into music videos and how they differ from traditional film projects.

If you’re curious about how to mix creative vision with client collaboration and want to learn some practical tips for your next visual project, this one’s for yo...

In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we have the absolute pleasure of chatting with Adam Howe as we pay tribute to the legendary Dame Maggie Smith.

From her iconic portrayal in Downton Abbey to her lesser-known yet equally powerful roles like The Secret Garden, Adam takes us through his personal experiences with her work and how she’s influenced his own creative process.

We dive deep into what makes period dramas so captivating, from the detailed costume design to the way they bring history to life while still allowing for creative expression.

Adam al...