In this episode, Carlo welcomes back cinematographer Matheus for a deep dive into the making of their independent feature film Gazer. They reflect on the film’s unexpected success in the festival circuit and its upcoming theatrical release—an increasingly rare feat for original, non-IP-based indie films. Matheus shares insights on the film's unusual production journey, which spanned two and a half years, often shot nights and weekends without permits or a full crew, and emphasized empathy, collaboration, and efficiency on set. They discuss how Gazer was crafted largely on 16mm film with a minimal setup and a lean, passionate crew, embracing imperfections and learning to let go of perfectionism. Matheus emphasizes the value of over-communicating with actors, having a service-oriented mindset, and staying true to the director’s vision rather than chasing aesthetic perfection. He also details how the surreal “nightmare” sequences in Gazer evolved visually and narratively, blending practical effects with bold stylistic choices like film pushing, color grading, and minimal lighting. The episode is a celebration of scrappy filmmaking, artistic growth, and the deep relationships formed through making something personal and challenging outside the studio system.
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