In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins sits down with filmmaker Macon Blair to discuss his journey from scrappy DIY filmmaking in Virginia to directing the 2025 reimagining of the cult classic The Toxic Avenger. The film hits theaters today, and Blair shares how he balanced homage and originality, kept the humor grounded in absurdity, and tackled the long production process. He also reflects on his start in the industry, the value of creative community, and what it really means to stick it out in an unpredictable industry. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Macon Blair discuss... Macon's early days making VHS films with friends and how that creative community shaped his career The years-long journey from writing spec scripts to directing Sundance winner I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore How Macon was approached to write The Toxic Avenger and how it evolved into his directorial role Reimagining a cult classic while staying true to its outrageous tone and aesthetic How comedy and absurdity play into horror and action, and the challenge of balancing tone The production process in Bulgaria and collaborating with an international crew Designing the film’s gritty, stylized world—from production design to costumes and camera movement Lessons from the editing room and how to let audience feedback shape the final cut Macon’s advice for emerging filmmakers about perseverance, collaboration, and flexibility Memorable Quotes: “I just wanted to do something with movies... if it's writing, great. If it's acting, great. If it's driving a truck, great.” “We would just pitch things back and forth, and if a line or a reaction would get a laugh from enough people, then it would be like, alright, put it in the movie.” “You have to be flexible enough or open enough to kind of be like, oh, I didn’t construct things the correct way. And I kind of owe it to you for you to not be confused.” “Preparation versus flexibility—having everything prepared to the nth degree, and being prepared to totally drop it if you need to.” Guests: Macon Blair Resources: Macon Blair on I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore (No Film School interview) Get tickets to The Toxic Avenger (Look Cinemas) Follow GG Hawkins’s feature I Really Love My Husband on Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No Film School delves into the high-pressure, fast-paced world of sketch comedy editing on Saturday Night Live's historic 50th Anniversary special. The episode features returning guest Ryan Spears—four-time Emmy nominee and Film Unit editor at SNL—joined by longtime collaborators Daniel Garcia and Paul Del Gesso. Together, they share insider stories on crafting memorable montages, rediscovering archival gems, navigating the evolution from analog to digital workflows, and ultimately earning their first-ever team nomination for the anniversary special. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins, and guests discuss… How the SNL editorial team collaborated on the 50th Anniversary special, blending archival material and creative reels into a unified piece. The rediscovery of forgotten gems—like Tom Hanks’s softball clip—and deciding what made the final cut. Technical and generational shifts in editing: from film and DIY workflows to 4K raw editing, searchable transcripts, advanced VFX, and speedy turnaround. Adapting to new creative tools, such as APM’s sound‑alike search and 3D animation techniques like the Cheeto character. Balancing fast cuts with breathing room—tailoring pacing to fit the tone, whether it’s surreal whimsy or a more paced parody like White Lotus. Managing chaos: keeping cool under pressure during live edits, system failures, and last-minute creative changes. Advice for aspiring SNL editors: start as assistant editors, build a strong reel (even outside comedy), check your ego at the door, and learn the collaborative workflow. Memorable Quotes “It really was just this kind of like hot, like this sort of like melting pot of ideas…” “Tom Hanks is playing softball with these kids… he’s playing the real version of Tom Hanks… super competitive.” “We’ve jumped to 4K and we’re editing raw… now you’re transcribing your sequences too… What a game changer.” “Every joke to the frame pretty much.” “It’s a learned craft… some people could do it and some people can.” Guests Ryan Spears is a Film Unit editor at SNL and four time Emmy nominee for work including “I’m Just Pete”, “Mario Kart”, and “Murder Show”. He’s also cut for the shows “The Amber Ruffin Show”, “Teenage Euthanasia”, the film “Citizen Weiner” and the Hulu standup “Matteo Lane: The Al Dente Special”. He’s currently a commercial editor based in New York at The Den Editorial. Daniel Garcia – Daniel Garcia has been a video editor at SNL for 10 years.  His work on the show includes editing weekly promos, pretapes such as PDD’s “Hard Seltzer”, and the Emmy winning digital series Creating SNL. Paul Del Gesso is a Film Unit Editor at SNL, where he was previously Emmy nominated for "Bowen's Straight." Additionally, Paul is a writer and producer, and is Head of Production at Warrior Queen Inc. Resources I Really Love My Husband on Instagram: @iReallyLovemyhusbandmovie Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins sits down with Oscar-winning editor Paul Rogers, best known for his work on Everything Everywhere All at Once. Paul opens up about his journey from Alabama to Hollywood, founding the post-production company Parallax, and how personal experiences—like fatherhood and burnout—reshaped his approach to creativity and work. The conversation dives deep into balancing artistic passion with sustainable working habits, challenging the toxic grind culture in filmmaking, and embracing a more holistic view of success in the industry. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and guest Paul Rogers discuss... The origins of Paul's career and his path to editing How Parallax was founded and its evolving mission The “one for me, one for them” model—redefining it for sustainability How COVID redefined Paul’s understanding of work-life balance Setting boundaries in the film industry and learning to say no The creative benefits of rest and “collecting experiences” How fame after winning an Oscar impacted his workflow Memorable Quotes: "Surviving wasn't thriving... and I really wanted to thrive." "You can get to flow state through burnout, or through joy. Joy is just harder." "You're going to start regurgitating the same ideas creatively over and over again." "Have life outside of filmmaking… be collectors, not recyclers.” Guests: Paul Rogers Resources: Parallax Everything Everywhere All at Once BLKNWS: Terms and Conditions (upcoming) Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the No Film School Podcast welcomes back Charles Haine, who hosts a compelling conversation with filmmaker Aditya Kripalani and lead actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Chitrangada Satarupa. The group discusses their latest film I'm Not an Actor, a cross-continental drama that was shot simultaneously in Mumbai and Frankfurt, using FaceTime as a primary storytelling and production tool. The film follows a virtual connection between a struggling actor and a melancholic retired banker, played by two of India's most compelling talents. They unpack the technological challenges, emotional resonance, and deeply collaborative process behind the movie, from remote acting and directing to editing via FaceTime itself. In this episode, No Film School's Charles Haine and guests discuss... The challenges of filming across two continents using FaceTime How real-life technological constraints enhanced the storytelling Rewriting and reshooting the ending based on audience feedback Using location to reflect character psychology The importance of creating seamless digital intimacy on screen How Apple products unintentionally became integral to the production Remote post-production workflows and their growing normalcy The influence of Richard Linklater and conversational cinema Memorable Quotes: "Technology disappeared. That was the best thing." "I thought, okay, this is my life. This is how you connect. This is the world actually, where I have to survive." "I edited this film on FaceTime... the post-production also happened remotely, just like the film." "It had to feel like a vlog... that's how we were very specific. It has to look like someone's doing a vlog." Guests: Aditya Kripalani Nawazuddin Siddiqui Chitrangada Satarupa Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins sits down with powerhouse writing and showrunning duo Nick Stoller and Francesca Delbanco. The married couple behind hit shows like Friends from College and Platonic discuss the nuances of building a creative career, collaborating with your spouse, and navigating the demands of leading a TV series. They reflect on how their individual writing journeys led them to a shared path, how they approach leadership and tone in a writer's room, and what makes Platonic so personal and relatable. Plus, GG and Jason dive into practical festival PR tips and how to plan for distribution after your film is finished. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guests Nick Stoller & Francesca Delbanco discuss... How Nick and Francesca transitioned from individual careers to a collaborative creative partnership The inspiration and evolution behind Platonic, now in its second season on Apple TV+ Balancing marriage, parenthood, and co-showrunning duties What makes a second season creatively different—and sometimes harder—than a first The dynamics of a writer’s room and the importance of hiring the right voices How to sustain a long-term creative career by following your passions Tactical PR strategies for filmmakers hitting the festival circuit Budgeting for buyer vs. non-buyer film festivals and why it matters Memorable Quotes: "I always say TV and movies are hard to make. There's no reason that you shouldn't try to make it fun." "We both worry about 100 percent of the process together at all times." "Your voice is really all you have as a writer. So make it as specific to you as you possibly can." "When you run out of ideas, that's when the best ideas come.” Guests: Nicholas Stoller Francesca Delbanco Resources: I Really Love My Husband – Instagram I Really Love My Husband Screening w/ In-Person Q&A Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins sits down with filmmaker duo Talia Shea Levin and Kara Grace Miller to discuss the journey behind their short film Make Me a Pizza—a provocative, hilarious, and genre-blurring short that’s become a viral sensation. Fresh off a big win at the Fantasia Festival’s Frontières 'Short to Feature' competition, Levin and Miller open up about their pitch experience, the creation of their film, the strategic path to building an audience, and what it really takes to turn a short into a feature in today’s film industry. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guests discuss... How Make Me a Pizza evolved from a bit into a film that resonated with audiences and trolls alike The strategy behind their pitch at Fantasia’s Frontières market—and how they clinched the win How building a dedicated fanbase (even with age restrictions on YouTube) became key to their success The value of showing up in person to festivals and pitching events Why going viral with a controversial short can be a career launchpad, not a setback Using limitations (like budget and film stock) as creative tools The importance of community over water bottle tours and industry gatekeeping What’s next after winning the pitch competition—and how they’re navigating the post-Festival whirlwind Memorable Quotes: “We have gotten so much love from the weirdos and the perverts, who we are lucky to call our fans.” “We are starting a cult, and we might get to make a feature film.” “If you got the Uber money, spend the Uber money.” “I didn’t dream of posting on Instagram... but you have to get your art to its audience.” Guests: Talia Shea Levin Kara Grace Miller Resources: Make Me a Pizza Instagram: @ThePizzaMovie Talia's Instagram: @taliashea23 Kara's Instagram: @karagmiller Frontières Market: https://frontieresmarket.com/ Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman sit down with filmmaker and producer Matthew Scheffler, whose unique path through the industry includes five seasons field producing for Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and producing shows like Random Acts of Flyness and Black Twitter: A People's History. Matthew shares his journey from faking his way into the industry to directing his own Victorian horror short The Traveler, while raising three kids and navigating the shifting landscape of indie filmmaking. The episode also revisits the growing frustration Vimeo users in the UK and EU face due to regulatory changes, sparking a larger conversation on platform responsibility and the future of video hosting for filmmakers. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and guest Matthew Scheffler discuss... How Matthew went from commercials in Boston to producing Emmy-winning segments for Last Week Tonight The real challenges of transitioning from production roles into directing How working in production sharpened his creative instincts The long road to making The Traveler, a Victorian horror short shot on Staten Island Why Vimeo has become inaccessible in the UK/EU and what it means for indie filmmakers A listener’s UK-based perspective on the loss of Staff Picks and public search Vimeo’s official response to the criticism and the broader implications of global tech regulation Memorable Quotes: "You kind of lie within the parameters...lying about a location where you live. I agree with you—chances are if I had said I was moving, they would have just given it to my friend who already lives there." "I've never been on a production where the budget matched the creative. Ever." "You just have to decide what you need to cut out—because when you have kids especially, you can't really cut them out." "Filmmakers built Vimeo. They shouldn't forget that." Guests: Matthew Scheffler Resources: The Traveler Instagram: @thetraveler_film Matthew’s Instagram: @ironschef2021 Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the No Film School Podcast features GG Hawkins in conversation with writer-director Sophie Brooks, whose new film Oh, Hi! hits theaters nationwide on July 25, 2025. The film, starring Molly Gordon and Logan Lerman, explores the chaotic, vulnerable, and often hilariously painful world of romantic relationships. Sophie shares her journey of getting from her debut feature The Boy Downstairs to Oh, Hi!, a second feature that took nearly a decade to realize. They discuss the struggles of indie filmmaking, casting chemistry, writing complex characters, and what it truly means to create art that reflects personal truths. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Sophie Brooks discuss... Why it took nine years to make a second feature How writing with an actor in mind (Molly Gordon) shaped the character of Iris The challenges and unexpected benefits of filming during/post-COVID How Sophie and her DP crafted a romantic, evolving visual style Writing unlikable yet deeply relatable characters Securing financing when nothing seems to go right The mental toll and unexpected joys of the post-production process Memorable Quotes: "I try really hard as a filmmaker. I try really hard with my friends...but I just want something. Is that so bad?" "You can feel so confident...but it's scary when you haven't done a part of the job in a long time." "There's a big difference between compromising and settling." "I didn’t believe the movie was happening until I was on set." Guest: Sophie Brooks Resources: Sophie Brooks on her first film ‘I Really Love My Husband’ Previews and Director Q&As ‘I Really Love My Husband’ Screenings Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman dig into the behind-the-scenes business of micro-budget filmmaking. They tackle a fan-submitted Ask No Film School question about run-and-gun filmmaking risks, E&O insurance, and securing distribution when shooting without proper permits. Then, GG interviews writer/director Anna Baumgarten and producer Danny Mooney, the creative duo behind the indie feature Disfluency, a powerful micro-budget drama executive produced by Jim Cummings. The episode offers a treasure trove of insights into how to bring a short film to life as a feature, fundraise strategically, and navigate distribution on your own terms. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and guests discuss... The real risks of guerrilla filmmaking and when E&O insurance matters How micro-budget filmmakers should approach risk management and legal protections Why shooting permits—even if they're free—can save you massive headaches later How Anna and Danny turned the short Disfluency into a feature with no initial investors Why having a “moving train” production plan helps raise money faster The importance of audience-building and crowdfunding in early development How Jim Cummings and the Short to Feature Lab helped launch Disfluency Navigating distribution and negotiating for your film's future Memorable Quotes: "You need to kind of think about: How much did your movie cost? What kind of lawsuits can come in? Does it work for you?" – 08:09 "Motivation does not create action. Action creates motivation." – 41:44 "You have to be building the plane and flying it at the same time." – 46:50 "Make something you love, because you're going to be working on this all the way through the end." – 01:01:03 Guests: Anna Baumgarten Danny Mooney Resources: More Jim Cummings on No Film School Showtimes For I Really Love My Husband w/ In-Person Q&A ‘I Really Love My Husband’ on Instagram Where to Watch Disfluency Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Hamburg joins GG Hawkins to discuss crafting iconic, rewatchable comedies—from cult hits like Safe Men to mainstream favorites such as Meet the Parents, Zoolander, I Love You, Man, and the upcoming new Meet the Parents installment. Hamburg shares his creative journey, balancing absurd premises with emotional truth, breaking into the industry, and directing the finale of Apple TV’s Stick. He also dives into working with comedic legends, developing enduring characters, and orchestrating large-scale scenes with precision and heart. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest John Hamburg discuss... How John’s breakthrough began with an NYU short at Sundance, leading to his first film Safe Men His process for deciding to leave NYU early and navigate a career in features vs. film school What drew him to direct the final episodes of Stick on Apple TV Plus and working with Owen Wilson The particular direction and strategy involved in managing huge crowds and authentic golf interactions on a TV-scale production The building blocks of quotable comedy: committing to emotionally real characters, clear scene goals, and grounded set pieces Collaborating with actors like Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Paul Rudd, and Alec Baldwin—balancing scripted freshness and improvisation Behind‑the‑scenes look at tough moments like reworking the poker table speech in Along Came Polly Hamburg’s ringmaster philosophy: creating a safe, creative set for spontaneity while keeping an eye on structure and story Memorable Quotes: “I think if the characters are grounded in an emotional reality… that’s maybe what makes them stand the test of time.” (27:05) “Directing is such an incredible job, but it can be very lonely at times because you’re the only one that knows really.” (43:57) “Sometimes directing is also sort of like being okay with letting something formulate and happen on its own organically.” (44:42) Guests: John Hamburg (IMDb) Resources: Square Peg Social on FilmFreeway I Really Love My Husband w/ In-Person Q&A I Really Love My Husband on Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School (https://nofilmschool.com/) Facebook: No Film School on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool) Twitter: No Film School on Twitter (https://twitter.com/nofilmschool) YouTube: No Film School on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool) Instagram: No Film School on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool) 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins sits down with director Steven Feinartz and editor Derek Boonstra, two members of the team behind 'Are We Good?', an intimate documentary following comedian Marc Maron as he navigates grief, healing, and finding humor in the darkest moments. Together, they share how the project came to life, how they came together, the challenges of balancing comedy and vulnerability, and the ethical and emotional complexities of telling someone else’s deeply personal story. The conversation explores the collaborative dynamic between director and editor, unexpected discoveries in the cutting room, and the powerful reactions the film has sparked in audiences. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at crafting a documentary that’s as funny as it is profound. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and guests Steven and Derek discuss… The inspiration and origin of Are We Good? Navigating the balance between humor and grief How editorial choices shaped the emotional arc of the film Their creative collaboration and building trust in the edit room Ethical considerations when working with such personal material Surprising audience reactions and what they’ve learned from them Advice for filmmakers on telling vulnerable, authentic stories Guests: Steven Feinartz Derek Boonstra Resources: Are We Good? on IMDb Details on 'I Really Love My Husband' showtimes & tickets: https://www.instagram.com/ireallylovemyhusbandmovie/ Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins presents two riveting conversations that push boundaries and challenge cultural taboos. First, she interviews Michael Taylor Jackson, writer, director, and star of the radically inventive film Orange Underground (Bajo Naranja), a satirical, punk-infused narrative born out of the Argentine quarantine. Then, she speaks with Kate Downey, creator and host of the podcast CRAMPED, which explores the hidden pain and social invisibility surrounding menstruation. Together, these conversations highlight how bold, personal storytelling can become an act of protest and empowerment. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guests discuss... How Orange Underground merges satire, street art, and protest cinema to confront U.S. neocolonialism The creative process of blending real-life social media storytelling with scripted filmmaking How Argentina's unique film funding system and underground economy supported an international indie film Kate Downey’s journey from theater to podcasting, and how CRAMPED sheds light on the mystery of period pain Why menstruation remains a cultural and cinematic taboo, and how media can normalize it through better representation The power of representation in shaping societal understanding of women's health and lived experiences Memorable Quotes: “We were able to develop a virtual community because we couldn’t obviously live together.” “When half the population experiences something regularly, shouldn’t they be reflected honestly in our storytelling?” “There is no word other than an ignorant word to describe ourselves.” “Is there any more common experience that has not been hit to death, right?” Guests: Michael Taylor Jackson Kate Downey Resources: Bajo Naranja on Instagram CRAMPED: Why Doesn't Media Talk About Period Pain? Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins sits down with Emmy and ACE Eddie-nominated editor Isaac Hagy, whose emotionally charged and visually inventive work includes Waves, Atlanta, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and The Friend. Known for his moody and immersive editing style, Hagy shares how he found his voice as an editor, the unconventional path that led him to Atlanta, and the creative and technical strategies that shape his work. He also dives into his Adobe Premiere workflow, the importance of collaboration, and how intuition—and his pit bull Blue—help fuel his storytelling. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Isaac Hagy discuss... How Hagy’s religious upbringing led to his first foray into filmmaking The unorthodox path from critical studies major to documentary editor Jumping from music videos to the groundbreaking series Atlanta Why Hagy chooses Premiere Pro and how he builds intuitive workflows Collaborating remotely and the magic of edit dogs like Blue The creative process behind The Friend and working with indie auteurs The importance of collaboration, mentorship, and finding your crew Memorable Quotes: "My dog carries so much emotional baggage. Yeah, he's an essential part of the editing room." "I try to think like... what is the conventional way of cutting this? And then maybe what is an interesting outside-the-box way of cutting it?" "You're not going to come crashing through the back door by doing something very conventional." "Premiere works the way my brain works... I don't think about editing when I'm editing in Premiere." Guest: Isaac Hagy Resources: The Friend (2024) Montana Story (2021) Clapping for the Wrong Reasons Sirens on Netflix Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins sits down with Derick Rhodes, VP of Community at Vimeo, to dive into how Vimeo continues to be a crucial hub for independent filmmakers. Derick reveals the behind-the-scenes process of how Vimeo Staff Picks are curated, the platform’s renewed focus on supporting creators, and the company’s evolving role in global film culture. From new streaming options to global partnerships and grassroots community support, this conversation paints a comprehensive picture of where Vimeo is heading and why it remains vital for indie creatives. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Derick Rhodes discuss... The origin story of Derick’s involvement with Vimeo and his background in indie filmmaking How Vimeo balances creator tools with community-building and high-level business solutions The human-led process behind Staff Picks and how to get noticed Vimeo’s new global partnerships and outreach efforts in places like Brazil and Japan The newly launched streaming and monetization tools for filmmakers A candid look at Derick’s own micro-budget filmmaking journey Advice on how to get involved with the Vimeo creator community and maximize the platform Memorable Quotes: “We don’t staff pick using algorithms… it’s all a team of people at the company that are obsessed with short films.” “Making shorts is taking yourself to film school, especially when you're doing it in a low-stakes way.” “Nobody is coming to pick you out of the crowd and take you to the path of like, you're going to be a film director now.” “We want to be an open playground and have people do work that's just playful and inspiring and try weird stuff.” Guests: Derick Rhodes - VP of Community, Vimeo Resources: Vimeo Staff Picks Moomin by Zach Dorn Yes, Daddy Podcast episode: Why Indie Film Distribution Is About To Go Punk Rock Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins speaks with writer-director Alessandra Lacorazza about her award-winning film In the Summers, which took home both the U.S. Grand Jury Prize and Best Director at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. Lacorazza shares the deeply personal roots of the film, the tumultuous road to production, and the pressures of staying true to a creative vision in the face of industry challenges. The conversation dives into casting across timelines, editorial discovery, and the intense final days before Sundance. It's an intimate and inspiring look at how a deeply personal, quietly powerful film almost didn't get made—and why it ultimately resonated so profoundly. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Alessandra Lacorazza discuss... The semi-autobiographical inspiration behind In the Summers Creating emotionally complex characters and tender portrayals of masculinity Casting multiple actors for the same role across time The chaotic production process and financial uncertainty before filming How Alessandra balanced creative integrity with commercial pressures Editing discoveries, including changing the film’s ending after test screenings What it was like to win at Sundance—while sick and alone The unexpected emotional reach of the film across different demographics Advice for emerging filmmakers on trusting collaborators and staying clear on your vision Memorable Quotes: “I just knew I couldn’t make this film with that suggestion... I’d rather not make it because it won’t be good.” “Making the film was harder than having a baby.” “There’s no real villain, and you just leave the audience to make up their own mind.” “If you don’t [know your story], you’re going to get lost in the maze, and then your editing process is going to be a lot more complicated.” Guest: Alessandra Lacorazza Resources: In the Summers is now available to stream on Hulu. Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins sits down with Pete Docter, Chief Creative Officer at Pixar Animation Studios and the visionary behind films like Monsters, Inc., Up, Inside Out, and Soul. The conversation dives deep into the creative process behind Pixar’s latest original feature Elio, and how Pixar’s iterative storytelling model has evolved over the years. Pete shares actionable insights on how filmmakers—whether working at a major studio or independently—can embrace change, vulnerability, and creative discovery to build resonant stories. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Pete Docter discuss... How Pete Docter chose Pixar over Disney and The Simpsons early in his career The iterative story process at Pixar and how it has shaped Elio The importance of balancing imaginative worlds with relatable emotional storytelling How Pixar greenlights projects by betting on people rather than ideas The evolving leadership strategies that support creativity and collaboration Why vulnerability is key to character empathy and story resonance How emerging filmmakers can use these Pixar principles in their own work Memorable Quotes: "Go to a small place where one person has a huge effect." "Every idea is good until you have to tell it to somebody else." "At some point, it is more about tenacity than talent." "Don't try to make and analyze at the same time." Guests: Pete Docter Resources: Pixar’s Elio Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Filmmakers Peter Hall and Paul Gandersman join No Film School's GG Hawkins to discuss their chilling feature debut Man Finds Tape, premiering in the “Escape from Tribeca” section at the 2025 Tribeca Festival. The Texas-based writer-director duo explores their found-footage horror hybrid, rooted in documentary realism and intimate character drama. They dive deep into the film’s decade-long evolution, DIY production tactics, narrative experimentation, and the collaborative scrappiness that made their micro-budget creature feature resonate on a grand scale. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guests discuss: How a shelved podcast idea evolved into a Tribeca-premiering feature film Using documentary experience to inform a found-footage horror aesthetic Why keeping a tight creative circle allowed for fast, agile production decisions Shooting scenes with GoPros and iPhones for final edits—and why it works Casting actors willing to dive into a highly iterative, experimental process Crafting practical and VFX-driven creature moments that elevate low-budget horror Editing techniques that treat the narrative as a real documentary-in-progress How found footage can stay emotionally grounded and narratively justified Memorable Quotes: "There cannot be a point at which the audience says, why are they still filming?" "We were willing to let it sound like shit in parts, and it ended up not having to." "We threw out a lot of the lavs and just used on-camera MiniDV audio. It felt 10 times more real." "What we make is not Peter’s voice or my voice—it’s a third voice." Guests: Peter S. Hall Paul Gandersman Resources: Man Finds Tape at Tribeca XYZ Films Boards Tribeca Horror Feature Man Finds Tape Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins is joined by writer-director duo (and real-life couple) David Joseph Craig and Brian Crano to discuss their new film I Don’t Understand You, a genre-bending dark comedy starring Nick Kroll and Andrew Rannells. The film follows a couple on a babymoon in Italy that spirals into chaos and violence. Craig and Crano share their process of fictionalizing their own adoption journey, balancing collaboration as married filmmakers, and navigating international co-productions. They also dive into the mechanics of shooting stunts, working with passionate collaborators, and sustaining a creative life while parenting. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guests David Joseph Craig and Brian Crano discuss... How personal experiences shaped the emotionally charged and comedic tone of I Don’t Understand You Transitioning from individual careers in acting and theater to collaborative filmmaking Tips for making international co-productions smoother, especially in Italy The logistics and artistry of filming stunts that are both shocking and funny Balancing parenting and directing, and how being a parent reshapes storytelling instincts Hiring passionate collaborators to elevate areas where you may feel less confident Why directors should consider editing or DP paths for a more sustainable career Memorable Quotes: "My films are like my ex-wives — I'm glad they exist and I never want to see them again." "We just decided early that on set, we would shoot everything and figure it out after." "Directing is like being eaten by crows — no one wants all of you, but everyone wants three bites." "Hire the people who are most passionate about the job you're most insecure about." Guests: David Joseph Craig on IMDb David’s Instagram Brian Crano on IMDb Brian’s Instagram Resources: I Don’t Understand You — In theaters June 6 - Get Ticket Now I Don’t Understand You Trailer I Don’t Understand You on Instagram Articles on stunts and filmmaking at No Film School Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins welcomes back filmmaker Janek Ambros to dive deep into the wild origin and evolution of his second feature film, Mondo Hollywoodland. The conversation spans everything from a life-changing phone call with Francis Ford Coppola to the chaotic, experimental production process of an iPhone-shot psychedelic satire. Ambros shares how a rogue spirit, a skeleton crew, and the mantra "just make something" powered his creative journey. He also discusses the challenges of distribution, finding a cult audience, and why the edit room is his happy place. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Janek Ambros discuss... How Francis Ford Coppola inspired the DIY ethos behind Mondo Hollywoodland Why the film is more of a spiritual successor than a direct sequel to the 1967 cult doc Mondo Hollywood The experimental, no-crew production process using an iPhone and real locations Casting friends and local oddballs to match the film’s bizarre, countercultural tone How the film’s editing and narrator shape its chaotic narrative Navigating COVID-era distribution and marketing challenges Ambros’s dual approach to career-building: make art, but also think commercially Why learning to produce is essential for emerging filmmakers Memorable Quotes: "You should just make a movie with your iPhone with your friends if you don’t have money." "We didn’t have a cinematographer. We have a camera op. That’s really it." "It was just totally the freest form of filmmaking." "Editing is definitely my favorite part of filmmaking. Everything else is a necessary evil just to edit." Guests: Janek Ambros Resources: More from NFS x Janek Screening Tickets – June 8, 6 p.m. at Lumineer Music Hall, Beverly Hills Mondo Hollywoodland on Letterboxd Assembly Line Entertainment on Instagram: @assemblylineent,  Mondo Hollywoodland on Instagram: @mondohollywoodland Janek on Twitter: @janekambros88 Assembly Line Entertainment on Twitter: @assemblylineent Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the No Film School Podcast is a deep dive into the often opaque world of film finance, distribution, and foreign pre-sales. GG Hawkins hosts the episode and is joined by filmmakers Stephen Cedars and Benji Kleiman, as well as special guest Mike Chapman from Bluefinch Films. Together, they explore what it takes to get a film made and sold in today’s unpredictable global market. From debunking myths about foreign pre-sales to discussing how to attract investors and get your film noticed at festivals, this is an essential listen for indie filmmakers navigating the post-production and sales process. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guests discuss... The harsh realities of the current acquisitions and distribution market Why understanding distribution from the beginning helps you fund your movie The value (and limitations) of foreign pre-sales and cast attachments What sales agents look for in a pitch, and how to present a compelling deck Why comps in pitch decks can be misleading or counterproductive Navigating film festivals and markets like Cannes, Berlin, and Toronto effectively Practical tips for raising money without burning out or making costly mistakes Memorable Quotes: “Nobody knows anything in the film industry.” “Every birth is a miracle. Editors are midwives. We could really keep this metaphor going.” “You’ve got to be bold. If it just feels like a lower-budget version of something the studio’s making, they’ll just watch the studio version.” “If it is a good film, it will find a way to cut through.” Guests: Mike Chapman (Bluefinch Films) Stephen Cedars Benji Kleiman Resources: Blue Finch Film Releasing The Wolfpack Deadstream Hundreds of Beavers Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices