Independent Filmmaker Josh Stifter of Flush Studios and the Robert Rodriguez's series "Rebel with a Crew," sits down and speaks with indie filmmakers about life in independent filmmaking, the creative process, and making it in the crazy film business of low-budget film.
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Independent Filmmaker Josh Stifter of Flush Studios and the Robert Rodriguez's series "Rebel with a Crew," sits down and speaks with indie filmmakers about life in independent filmmaking, the creative process, and making it in the crazy film business of low-budget film.
Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)
Season 6 Episode 3: Directing Actors: Casting, Rehearsal, and Getting the Best Performance
Low-Budget Rebels: An Indie Filmmaking Podcast
1 hour 8 minutes
3 months ago
Season 6 Episode 3: Directing Actors: Casting, Rehearsal, and Getting the Best Performance
Welcome back, Rebels! In this episode of Low-Budget Rebels, we’re digging into the heart of filmmaking — directing actors and finding authentic performances. From casting the right people to running rehearsals, to supporting your cast through the challenges of shoot days, today’s guests share how they create the conditions for great performances, even on limited budgets.
First up, I talk with Alex Kahuam about his approach to working with actors on his single-take thriller Failure. We get into the unique challenges of one-take filmmaking, how to keep performances consistent over long stretches, and how to give actors the confidence to take risks.
Next, Spooky Madison joins me to discuss building trust with your cast, creating a comfortable environment, and allowing for collaboration while keeping the tone of the film intact. We also talk about how rehearsal can open the door for unexpected discoveries on set.
Then I’m joined by Dillon Brown, who shares how he approaches directing actors in found footage films, where improvisation and naturalistic performances are key. Dillon talks about creating believable tension without over-directing and letting his cast lean into their instincts.
Finally, I wrap the episode with Michael Pierro, director of Self Driver. Michael shares his process for casting actors who can bring authenticity to heightened sci-fi situations, as well as strategies for helping performers adapt quickly in tight shooting schedules and small locations.
This episode is all about the director–actor relationship — casting, rehearsals, on-set communication, and creating the space for great performances that serve the story. Thank you so much for supporting Low-Budget Rebels. Your support helps keep the show going and gives you access to these episodes completely ad-free. If you’re not already a member, head to patreon.com/flushstudios to join.
And be sure to follow and support this episode’s amazing guests: Alex Kahuam – kahuamfilms.com | @alexkahuam Spooky Madison – @finalghoulfilms | Final Ghoul on YouTube Dillon Brown – @horrornerdproductions | Films on Tubi and Amazon Michael Pierro – @m_pierro
More conversations with bold, independent filmmakers are coming your way this season — stay tuned, and stay rebellious. Cheers, Josh
Low-Budget Rebels: An Indie Filmmaking Podcast
Independent Filmmaker Josh Stifter of Flush Studios and the Robert Rodriguez's series "Rebel with a Crew," sits down and speaks with indie filmmakers about life in independent filmmaking, the creative process, and making it in the crazy film business of low-budget film.
Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)
