Cinematic Alchemy

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...