Episodes
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In this episode, the team reflects on a groundbreaking year in documentary filmmaking. From innovative theatrical release strategies to building community through outreach and merchandise, they share the key moments that defined their success.
Highlights include the D-Day commemoration, expanding audience engagement through social media, and signing a new distribution deal to bring their film into schools. Through teamwork, persistence, and creative problem-solving, the team achieved new milestones while staying true to their storytelling mission.
Takeaways
2024 was an incredible year for the team.
Balancing compelling stories with smart business strategies is essential.
Knowing your audience drives both engagement and monetization.
Social media experiments revealed what resonates most.
Strategic outreach made theatrical releases possible.
Merchandise and events connect audiences to the film’s message.
Collaboration and self-education helped overcome challenges.
Community-building efforts created lasting impact.
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
02:19 Reflecting on a Successful Year
11:13 Innovative Strategies for Theatrical Release
20:13 Outreach and Engagement Strategies
24:49 D-Day Commemoration and Veteran Experiences
29:07 Building Community Through Content
33:18 Merchandising and Event Engagement
36:54 Reflections on a Year of AchievementsSponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!
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In this episode of Documentary First, hosts Christian and Jake Taylor focus on the journey of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" so far. They explore the challenges of independent filmmaking, the importance of event screenings, and the value of building relationships with audiences.
Logistics of pricing for screenings, the role of merchandising, and the long-term commitment required to see a documentary through is also discussed.
Takeaways
Event screenings are crucial for audience engagement and fundraising.
Building relationships with viewers enhances the documentary experience.
Merchandising can significantly improve audience interaction.
Independent filmmakers face unique financial challenges.
Pricing for screenings should reflect the audience's ability to pay.
Creating a unique experience at screenings is essential.
Patience is key in the documentary filmmaking process.
Understanding your audience is vital for success.
Every event is an opportunity to share stories and build connections.
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction to Documentary First
02:53 The Journey of 'The Girl Who Wore Freedom'
11:08 Challenges and Strategies in Documentary Filmmaking
18:14 The Importance of Screenings and Audience Engagement
25:22 Merchandising as a New Revenue Stream
30:47 Expanding the Documentary Brand
31:12 Archival Footage and Storytelling
32:36 The Battlefield Cross: A Symbol of Sacrifice
35:27 Creating Meaningful Merchandise
39:15 Understanding Audience Preferences
41:04 Investing in Documentary Filmmaking
43:55 The Importance of Event Work
49:55 Finding Your Audience
52:13 Patience in Building a Brand
53:25 DocuView Déjà VuDocuView Déjà Vu
JAKE: Documentary: Secrets & Spies: A Nuclear Game, 2024, Watch on HBO MAX, 4 Episode Series, IMDB Link: Secrets & Spies: A Nuclear Game (TV Series 2024– ) ⭐ 7.3 | Documentary
Narrative: The Iron Claw, 2023, 132 mins, Watch on MAX or Prime, IMDB Link: The Iron Claw (2023) ⭐ 7.6 | Biography, Drama, Sport
Christian: Documentary: Mr McMahon, 2024, 6 Episode Series on Netflix, IMDB Link: Mr. McMahon (TV Series 2024) ⭐ 7.7 | Documentary, Biography, Crime
Narrative: A Family Affair, 2024, 111 mins, Watch on Netflix, IMDB Link: A Family Affair (2024) ⭐ 5.3 | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!
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Missing episodes?
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In this captivating episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with filmmakers Sarah Burns and David McMahon to discuss their forthcoming documentary on the legendary Leonardo da Vinci. Together, they explore the creative process behind bringing Leonardo’s life and genius to the screen, the challenges of capturing his story, and the innovative techniques they used to breathe life into his work.
From the importance of curiosity and expert insights to the immersive experience of researching in Italy, Sarah and David share a fascinating look at what it takes to honor Leonardo’s legacy. They also dive into the role of voice, music, and visuals in creating an engaging documentary and share exclusive details about accessing and interpreting da Vinci’s masterpieces.
Takeaways
Curiosity as a Driving Force: Leonardo’s endless curiosity inspired both the filmmakers and their storytelling approach.
Unique Challenges: Limited visual material called for creative methods to portray Leonardo’s genius.
Innovative Techniques: The filmmakers used unique storytelling techniques to convey Leonardo's many talents.
Expert Perspectives: A diverse cast of experts enriches the film’s exploration of Leonardo’s impact.
Immersive Research: Living in Italy allowed the filmmakers to deeply connect with Leonardo’s world.
Voice & Music: Carefully chosen voiceovers and a powerful score bring emotional depth to Leonardo’s story.
Access to Originals: Viewing Leonardo’s original works was pivotal to the film’s authenticity.
Inspiration for Viewers: The documentary celebrates Leonardo’s legacy, inspiring audiences to appreciate his contributions to art and science.
DocuView Déjà Vu
SARAH: When we Were Kings, 1996, 88mins, Watch on MAX, IMDB Link: When We Were Kings (1996) ⭐ 7.9 | Documentary, Sport
DAVID: How to Survive a Plague, 2012, 110 mins, Watch on AMC+ Channels (Prime), IMDB Link: How to Survive a Plague (2012) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, History, News
Timecodes:00:00 Introduction to the Filmmakers
07:39 Exploring Leonardo da Vinci's Mind
17:01 Challenges and Innovations in Filmmaking
26:55 The Role of Experts and Perspectives
37:24 Living in Italy: Immersion in Leonardo's World
46:06 The Power of Voice and Music in Storytelling
52:52 Accessing Leonardo's Works and Legacy
56:14 DocuView Déjà Vu -
In this insightful episode, host Christian Taylor sits down with French filmmaker Matt Beurois, director of Fancy Like Walker Hayes, to explore the heartwarming story of country music sensation Walker Hayes and his family. Beurois shares his journey into documentary filmmaking and provides a behind-the-scenes look at capturing the Hayes family’s rise to fame.
From the importance of storytelling and the challenges of balancing creativity with business, to the dynamics of trust, family, and fame, this conversation dives deep into the art and heart of filmmaking. Matt discusses the importance of timing in the music and film industry, lessons learned in navigating contracts and distribution, and the unique support system that has guided Walker and his family. Join us for an inspiring look at the power of family, resilience, and passion in pursuing creative dreams.
Links: Trailer for Walker Hayes documentary: https://vimeo.com/996694150/364f20c291?share=copy
Matt’s DocuView Déjà Vu:
Still: A Michael J Fox Movie, 2023, 95 mins, Watch on Apple TV+, IMDB Link: Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie (2023) – IMDb
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking
02:53 Matt Beurois: A French Filmmaker’s Journey
06:03 The Importance of Education and Self-Learning in Filmmaking
09:02 Navigating the Film Industry: Business and Creativity
12:09 The Unique Story of ‘Fancy Like’ and Walker Hayes
17:59 Behind the Scenes: Creating the Documentary
24:01 The Hayes Family: Love, Struggle, and Success
29:30 Crafting the Narrative: The Editing Process
34:05 Family Dynamics on Tour: Balancing Fame and Family
37:27 The Business of Music: Understanding the Industry
46:41 Challenges in Filmmaking: Contracts and Legalities
52:37 DocuView Déjà Vu Recommendations
54:18 What’s coming next for Matt -
In this episode, host Christian Taylor sits down with Emmy-nominated editor and producer Evan Wise, ACE, to delve into his career journey and unique approach to documentary filmmaking. Evan shares his path from a rebellious skate punk in New Jersey to becoming a highly respected editor, working on acclaimed series like HBO’s The Circus and Q: Into the Storm. The conversation turns to his latest project, Chimp Crazy, a four-part HBO series that explores the complex world of primates.
Evan offers a behind-the-scenes look at Chimp Crazy, discussing the creative and technical challenges of editing a real-time documentary. He emphasizes the importance of finding a compelling story arc, balancing multiple perspectives, and allowing the audience to interpret the narrative independently. He also shares his unique workflow, which involves producing, writing, and editing simultaneously—an approach that fosters flexibility and creativity.
Throughout the episode, Evan provides valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring editors. He highlights essential skills like negotiation, teamwork, and self-advocacy, offering listeners an inside view of the collaborative and often intense world of documentary editing.
DocuView Dèjà Vu
Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills, 1996, 150 mins, Watch on Amazon / Prime, IMDB Link: Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills (1996) ⭐ 8.2 | Documentary, Crime
Diamond Hands: Legends of WallStreetBets, 2022, 89 mins, Watch on Peacock, IMDB Link: Diamond Hands: The Legend of WallStreetBets (2022) ⭐ 4.7 | Documentary
Takeaways
Hard work and enthusiasm are key for advancing in documentary filmmaking.
Building relationships with experienced editors and filmmakers is invaluable for growth.
Film school offers resources but isn’t necessary for success in the industry.
Starting in entry-level roles, like logger or assistant editor, can lead to an editing career.
High-profile projects and recognition, like Emmy nominations, can open new doors.
Creating a series involves tailoring the format, episode length, and story to the footage available.
Presenting multiple perspectives lets the audience form their own opinions.
Filming, writing, and editing at the same time allows for creative, flexible storytelling.
Creative problem-solving makes scenes more engaging and visually dynamic.
Negotiation skills and self-advocacy are crucial for an editor's success.
Building positive relationships and being kind to others is essential in the editing world.
Timecodes:00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping
03:21 Evan Wise's Journey in Documentary Filmmaking
07:52 The Importance of Hard Work and Building Relationships
14:30 The Role of Loggers and Assistant Editors
18:14 Turning Points in Evan Wise's Career
21:40 Creating 'Chimp Crazy'
25:16 Discovering the Story
28:26 Filming, Writing, and Editing Simultaneously
31:35 Revealing Unseen Processes
37:32 Editors as Writers
40:05 The Importance of Being Nice
45:50 DocuView Dèjà Vu -
Here is a taste of our new series called Conversation With Christian that is available on Patreon.
In this episode, Christian interviews her eldest son, the one with whom her entire film adventure began. In 2011 he joined the military and that life decision had big implications for the whole family. They discuss his military journey and their shared experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
They discuss themes of trust, perseverance, and the importance of community. Christian’s son shares his passion for the military and his desire to serve as a warfighter. They also touch on the challenges and rewards of running a business together.
Overall, the conversation highlights the lessons learned and the growth that comes from facing difficult circumstances. Support us on Patreon and get Documentary First exclusive content like this episode for $5+ a month. Patreon.com/DocumentaryFirst
Takeaways
Trust in God's provision and have faith in His plan, even in difficult times.
Challenges and setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.
Building a strong community and culture is essential for personal and professional development.
Having a mentor or someone with experience can provide valuable guidance and support.
Passion and dedication are key to pursuing a fulfilling career or vocation.
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In this insightful episode of the Documentary First Podcast, Christian Taylor, David Paterson, and Todd Anderson delve into the data and hard-earned lessons from the theatrical release of The Girl Who Wore Freedom.
They explore the surprising factors that influenced ticket sales, including screening schedules, ticket pricing, and the often overlooked role of theater advertising—or lack thereof. The team shares their experiences with the logistical hurdles of distributing physical drives and the critical importance of targeted outreach to specific audiences.
Reflecting on their journey, the hosts candidly discuss the missteps and lessons learned, underscoring the necessity of strategic planning, research, and building strong partnerships in independent film distribution. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex world of documentary filmmaking and theatrical releases.
No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode
Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Script Confusion
04:21 Theatrical Release Details
07:46 The Impact of Matinee Showings
09:01 Personal Interruption: Wedding Announcement
12:50 Return to Discussion: Advertising and Theater Cooperation
15:52 Personal Interruption: Wedding Update
17:15 Return to Discussion: Naivete and Theater Advertising
2115 The Importance of Deliverables and Advertising
22:13 The Impact of Deliverables on Profit
23:24 The Challenges of Physical Distribution
26:22 The Role of DCP Suppliers in Distribution
27:36 The Importance of Organization and Tracking
28:32 Theaters' Lack of Advertising and Responsibility
29:13 The Importance of Targeted Outreach
30:07 The Impact of Ticket Prices on Profit
31:22 The Success of Film Festival Screenings
32:39 The Importance of Local Outreach and Partnerships
35:36 The Importance of Research and Targeting
38:09 The Success of In-Person Screenings
42:00 Closing Remarks and Future Plans -
In this episode of Documentary First, Christian Taylor is joined by Joe Amodei and Tim Maggiani from Virgil Films Entertainment to dive into the evolving world of film distribution and the diminishing role of film festivals in securing deals.
The discussion sheds light on how the dominance of streaming platforms and studios has shifted the landscape, making it increasingly difficult for independent filmmakers to gain visibility through traditional film festivals.
The conversation explores the significance of IMDb in shaping a film’s release strategy and public perception. Christian and Tim emphasize the importance of meticulously managing your IMDb page, from the release date to cast listings, to enhance your film’s appeal. They also highlight the critical role of eye-catching key art in capturing attention.
The hosts delve into how streaming platforms utilize algorithms to curate content tailored to user preferences, changing the way audiences discover films. They also discuss the growing prominence of ad-supported video on demand (AVOD) services like Tubi and Pluto TV, which provide filmmakers with new avenues to reach diverse audiences.
Joe Amodei reflects on his personal connection with Morgan Spurlock, sharing how the success of Spurlock’s documentary Super Size Me profoundly impacted Virgil Films and the documentary industry. He pays tribute to their enduring friendship, underscoring the value of supporting one another in both personal and professional endeavors.
DocuView Dèjà Vu
IMDB LINK: Morgan Spurlock | Producer, Writer, Director
Super Size Me, 2004, 100mins, Watch on Peacock, Pluto, Prime, Roku, Tubi and Plex, IMDB LINK: Super Size Me (2004) ⭐ 7.2 | Documentary
Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Background
03:02 The Changing Role of Film Festivals
09:04 The Impact of IMDb on Release Dates and Perception
14:09 The Influence of Streamers and Studios
20:07 The Dominance of Streamers at Film Festivals
22:46 The Importance of IMDb and Its Limitations
24:03 Adapting to the Changing Distribution Landscape
25:35 Optimizing Your IMDb Page and Key Art
26:32 The Role of Algorithms in Content Curation
28:56 The Rise of Ad-Supported Video on Demand
40:22 DocuView Dèjà Vu - Remembering Morgan Spurlock and 'Super Size Me' -
You know our good friend, Joe Amodei (Supersize Me) from past episodes. Now meet his protégé, Tim Maggiani, who is a great explainer of the modern film distribution process. Joe, a seasoned pro in VHS and DVD sales, admits the need for his distribution company to stay nimble and adaptable to new technology and platforms.
Enter Tim. He understands the streaming world yet adheres to the age-old method of cultivating relationships between filmmakers and distributors—a key ingredient to success. By listening to this podcast, one will gain understanding about: what it is like to attend a Hollywood pitch meeting, how a movie is delivered, and why it is important to find a champion for your film. Stay tuned to Documentary First to hear Part 2 later this month!
Links:
https://www.forksoverknives.com/
DocuView Dèjà Vu
Tim Maggiani: "Just. One. Mile.", 2023, 1hr 36min, Watch on Tubi and Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28619147/
Joe Amodei: “7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story”, 2021, 93 mins, Watch on Tubi and Prime, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12439210/
Timecodes 00:50 Introduction and Disclaimer
06:50 Joe Amodei's Journey in the Film Industry
14:44 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Film Distribution
19:38 Pitching Films to Distributors and Platforms: The Art of the Pitch
22:36 Building and Maintaining Relationships in the Film Industry
25:05 Creating Compelling Marketing Materials for Film Distribution
30:56 Importance of Ongoing Promotion for Independent Films
33:17 Building Strong Relationships with Filmmakers
38:06 DocuView Dèjà Vu -
Special guests, Whitney and Brandon Cawood, take us behind the scenes of their groundbreaking documentary, To Dye For. This eye-opening film dives deep into the hidden dangers of synthetic dyes and their adverse effects on individuals and families.
By incorporating a unique blend of vlog-style storytelling, expert interviews, and emotional family testimonies, To Dye For shines a light on a critical issue often overlooked.
In this episode, Brandon and Whitney open up about their personal journey, sharing the urgency that drove them to bring this story to life. They discuss the challenges of wearing multiple hats—handling animation, music composition, and casting—while navigating the financial, marketing, and strategy side of independent filmmaking.
Through the process of making this film they learned how to have focus groups and how to rely on God during tough times. We encourage our listeners to see the movie when it releases!
Links:
http://www.todyeforthedocumentary.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@YesTheory
DocuView Dèjà Vu
Whitney: “Not So Pretty”, 2022, 4 Episode Documentaty Series, Watch on MAX, IMDB LINK: Not So Pretty (TV Mini Series 2022) ⭐ 6.9 | Documentary
Christian: 1. “Brandy Hellville & the Cult fo Fast Fashion”, 2024, 91mins, Watch on MAX, IMDB LINK: Brandy Hellville & the Cult of Fast Fashion (2024) ⭐ 6.2 | Documentary
2. “The Movies That Made Us”, 2019-2921, 3 Season Series, Watch on Netflix, IMDB LINK: The Movies That Made Us (TV Series 2019–2021) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, Family, HistoryBrandon: 1. “Backstreet Boys: Show ‘Em What You’re Made Of”, 2015, 101 mins, Watch on various streaming platforms such a Prime, Tubi, Roku, Peacock, IMDB LINK: Backstreet Boys: Show 'Em What You're Made Of (2015) ⭐ 7.5 | Documentary
2. “OUTATIME: Saving the DeLoren Time Machine”, 2016, 64 mins, Watch on Amazon, IMDB LINK: OUTATIME: Saving the DeLorean Time Machine (2016) ⭐ 7.4 | Documentary
Timecodes 00:51 Introduction and Background
03:57 Summary of the Documentary
10:35 Filmmakers' Background and Roles
19:04 Impressions of the Film
21:45 Storytelling Mechanisms and Working Within a Budget 32:10 Divine Intervention and the Making of a Documentary Film
37:30 Taking on Multiple Roles: Social Media Marketing
39:10 Understanding the Target Audience and Administrative Tasks
47:00 Finding Community and In-Person Test Screenings
52:38 Being Creative and Unique in Documentary Filmmaking 55:20 DocuView Dèjà VuSponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!
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Cecilia Peck (executive producer) and Inbal B. Lessner (editor) are the creators of Netflix's 2023 doc series, Escaping Twin Flames. Together, they explore their personal journey as filmmakers, how they united as a powerful team, and how they brought this social issue to light.
The conversation dives into the unsettling world of the Twin Flames Universe, an online relationship community whose promises of true love masks a controlling environment. Through deep research and with empathy, they unearthed these survivors’ stories.
The filmmakers discuss the vital role of editors in shaping a narrative, their support for editors deserving writing credits, and the collaborative effort required to piece together different story arcs. They share unexpected moments that shifted the direction of the series and reflect on how documentaries can influence real-world change, including how shows can affect law enforcement through social pressure.
Inbal and Cecilia also talk about the qualities they admire in each other, their commitment to ethical filmmaking, and offer valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. They emphasize the importance of mastering skills like sound recording and editing, and the value of learning firsthand from filmmakers you respect.
DocuView Dèjà Vu
Inbal:
Fire of Love, 2022, 98 mins, Watch on Hulu & Prime, IMDB LINK: Fire of Love (2022) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary, Biography
Cecilia:
Harlan County U.S.A., 1976, 103 mins, Watch on MAX or Amazon, IMDB LINK: Harlan County U.S.A. (1976) ⭐ 8.2 | Documentary
Timecodes 00:00 Introduction and Filmmaker Background 08:53 Nominated for an Emmy and Working Together 15:22 From Brave Miss World to Seduced 20:10 Investigating Twin Flames Universe 22:10 Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Documentary Filmmaking 24:30 Pitching to Netflix: From Proof of Concept to Green Light 27:07 The Trade-Off: Ownership vs. Financial Support 29:20 The Role of Editors in Documentary Filmmaking 32:30 Collaborative Editing and Multiple Editors 40:40 Surprising Moments and Impact on Law Enforcement 50:54 The Importance of Ethical Filmmaking 53:10 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers -
DISCLAIMER -- *Documentary First Productions and it’s staff acknowledge the complexity of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Comments made in this video are meant to explore the complexity of violence rather than to promote or stand for a particular cause. --
In this week's episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor is joined by summer intern Peyton Rabb to recount their unforgettable journey to Normandy for the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day landings. The Documentary First Productions team had the profound honor of accompanying 101-year-old WWII veteran Ceo Bauer to the commemorative ceremonies—his first experience in Normandy attending the D-Day commemorations.
This deeply moving experience touched not only Ceo and the team but also the people of Normandy and the active-duty military members who took part in the events. Christian and Peyton reflect on the emotional impact of their documentary, "The Girl Who Wore Freedom", which centers around Ceo Bauer’s story and resonates deeply with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. The episode delves into the French perspective on war and freedom, the significance of the D-Day commemorations, and the team's interactions with notable figures like Air Force captain (CPT), Christian Maude.
Listeners will be transported to key moments of the trip, from visiting the historic church at Angoville-au-Plain, with its blood-stained pews, to witnessing a reenactment at Utah Beach. Peyton also shares her personal growth from this experience, including the profound effect of receiving Ceo's book. The episode wraps up with thoughtful reflections on the importance of taking risks, the power of storytelling, and the value of intergenerational friendships forged through shared history. Don't miss this powerful conversation that honors the past while inspiring future connections.
No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode.
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:03 The 80th Anniversary of Normandy
07:28 The Impact of The Girl Who Wore Freedom
11:10 The French Perspective on War and Freedom
15:25 Exploring the Schedule and Events of the Trip
27:25 Inspiring Support from Captain Christian Maude
29:19 A Special Visit to Angoville Church
36:23 Solemn and Impactful Reenactment at Utah Beach
40:23 The Priceless Moment of Receiving Ceo's Book
47:29 The Incredible Involvement of the U.S. Army
52:07 Personal Growth and Transformation
54:03 The Value of Intergenerational Friendships & Conclusion -
It's Part 2 of 3 in the Dream Team series, Christian Taylor, Todd Anderson, and David Paterson are back! They share about the release of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" nationally to celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. This time they dive into administration, specifically getting hard drives to movie theater owners, frustrations, failures, and all. They learned that keeping track of emails and communication is crucial during a theatrical release. It takes money to make money, yet the devil is in the details; Sometimes the operations cost more than expected.
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Brian Skerry, a renowned documentary filmmaker and photojournalist specializing in marine wildlife discusses his journey in the industry and his latest documentary series, Sea Change, July 24 on PBS.
Skerry shares how he started as a diver and developed a passion for underwater photography and filmmaking. He also talks about his transition from photography to becoming a producer for ocean documentaries.
We are happy to share this conversation with a producer who won an Emmy for creating Disney+ "Secret of the Whales".
Links:
Brianskerry.com
Instagram.com/brianskerry
https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/series/sea-change-the-gulf-of-maine/DocuView Dèjà Vu
Brian:
Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story, 2024, 77 mins, Watch on Hulu, IMDB Link: Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story (2024) - IMDb
Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple, 2024, 147mins, Watch on HBO Max, IMDB Link: Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple (2024) - IMDb
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction and Background of Brian Skerry
02:22 Brian Skerry's Journey in Filmmaking
08:53 Transitioning into Producing and Directing
19:09 The Importance of Planning and Portfolio Building
26:52 Combining Visual Storytelling and Logistics
35:06 Addressing Climate Change in Documentaries
37:49 The Meaning of the Ocean Being a Carbon Sink
41:21 The Decline of the Gulf of Maine
48:29 The Power of Storytelling in Environmental Conservation
59:43 Research and Exploration in Filmmaking
01:06:34 Where to Watch Sea Change
01:07:30 DocuView Dèjà Vu -
Our dream team who was in charge of releasing "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" in theaters for the 80th anniversary of D-day, June 6, 2024 reunite! They offer a behind-the-scenes look into the herculean effort in getting our first documentary successfully on the big screen. Throughout the conversation, the team emphasizes the importance of crafting compelling emails, employing creative outreach tactics, and maintaining meticulous follow-up to ensure success. They share their experiences navigating the challenges of securing commitments and marketing the film across different theaters and communities. Their dedication and efforts culminated in a successful theatrical release, significantly raising awareness about D-Day and honoring its legacy
No DocuView Dèjà Vu this episode
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
01:31 How Todd Anderson Got Involved
25:27 Crafting Effective Outreach Emails
29:14 Tracking and Follow-Up
36:08 Reaching Out to Local Communities
38:51 Challenges in Securing Theater Commitments
48:23 ConclusionSponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!
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After suffering from Ulcerative Colitis for nearly a decade, filmmaker Saffron Cassaday tried a new treatment known as Fecal Microbiota Transplant: taking stool from a healthy donor and implanting it into the gut of a sick patient. She chronicles this journey in DESIGNER $HIT, https://geni.us/DesignerShit.
We were fortunate to have her on the podcast to share about her start in the entertainment industry as a commercial editor and later directing the successful documentary, "Cyber-Seniors" https://cyberseniorsdocumentary.com/. We get into her most recent project, a revealing medical journey that features turning poop into medicine.
DocuView Dèjà Vu:
Saffron:
“Babies” 2010, 79 mins, Watch on Amazon/Prime, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1020938/
Christian:
“Cat Daddies” 2022, 89 mins, Watch on Plex, Tubi, Prime, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10968602/
“Unsung Hero” 2024, 113 mins, Narrative based on a true story, Currently in Theatres, IMDB LINK: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23638614/
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
07:16 Choosing to Being Her Own Subject
20:16 Bridging the Generational Gap Through Technology in "Cyber-Seniors"
23:00 My Mom is the Producer!
25:08 Why You Need to Love the Subject Matter You Are Directing
28:10 "Designer Shit"
31:15 Fecal Transplant Treatment Perspectives in the Medical Community
38:34 DocuView Dèjà Vu
Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!
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Did you ever wonder if a "Human Swiss Army Knife" of filmmaking existed? Well, in this episode, you'll meet one: Josh Haygood, also known as "The Fixer."
Join us as Christian and Josh chat about how Josh got into filmmaking, transitioning from photography to moving pictures. From his time in Vietnam, devouring National Geographic, to landing jobs with the UN and MTV, Josh's journey is fascinating.
We explore Haygood's extensive resume, showcasing his ability to tackle any job in the industry. His versatility and problem-solving skills earned him the nickname "The Fixer" during his years at MTV. He shares some of his experiences about being called to "fix" a project.
Haygood worked on a recent documentary project that involved an innovative boating propeller, https://maelstrompropellers.com/
In a segment called "Answer Me This," Christian throws Haygood a few questions about life and media arts.
By the end of the episode, we invite Josh to be a "friend of the show" as we are excited to have him back to delve into more areas of filmmaking.
DocuView Dèjà Vu:
JOSH: “Won’t You Be My Neighbor”, 2018, 95 mins, Watch on Netflix or Prime, IMDB LINK:
Won't You Be My Neighbor? (2018) ⭐ 8.3 | Documentary, Biography, History
Josh Haygood's production company link:
https://www.banditofilms.com/
Timecodes:
(00:00) - Introduction (12:17) How does somebody get to be in your position? (15:23) Development expertise in a thing become really, really good at least one thing. (17:28) The propeller company, the “Maelstrom Propellers” project. (21:46) “What do you want to do with that documentary?” (24:44) "What is one thing a person starting out could do to further their career?" (25:49) Josh names a person that really influenced his life. And why they made a difference to him. (27:39) “Three things that you tell your people when you want to set the tone on any production” (33:23) "What do you do when you're really struggling? When you don't have a project to work on or when the project you're working on isn't going well?" (43:51) "You absolutely seem to love your work and this lifestyle. And I just want to know. Why? This is a crazy job. It's crazy. What is it? Why do you love it so much?" (49:00) DocuView Dèjà Vu Segment - “Won't You Be My Neighbor” -
Hey podcast listeners, in anticipation for our limited theatrical release on D-Day, we are sharing a special segment where Christian Taylor was featured on "The Real Story with Jeanne Ives" aired May 26, 2024. Tune in to hear the beginnings of how Taylor got into directing and for updates on "Heroes of Carentan". Stream "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" this Memorial Day on Vudu, Apple TV, Prime Video, and Vimeo.
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In this episode, Christian and David Paterson discuss the FIRST ever theatrical release of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom"! They highlight the importance of knowing your audience, reaching out to mom-and-pop theaters, and independent film distribution overall.
The conversation explores the reasoning behind having a limited theatrical release for our documentary film. They also touch on the costs associated with distribution and the timing strategy of theatrical releases. The episode concludes with a recommendation for the documentary film "The Greatest Night in Pop", which chronicles the making of the song "We Are the World." https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30796448/
· UPDATE: We have 222 Screenings in 109 Cities and 31 States!!!
· NEW SCREENINGS ADDED DAILY FOR THE GIRL WHO WORE FREEDOM
· CHECK OUT OUR INTERACTIVE MAP and find a screening in a city near you! Click here: https://i.mtr.cool/snfqwdivme
· Be sure to check back frequently, as we'll be adding other locations!
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction and Company Update
01:27 Theatrical Release Announcement
08:00 The Importance of Knowing Your Audience
13:27 Customizing Outreach Efforts for Community Engagement
25:29 The Financial Aspects of a Theatrical Release
29:45 Persistence in Securing Theatres
33:41 Tailoring Screenings to the Venue
34:07 Flexibility and Options for Theaters
36:18 Considering the Costs of Distribution
46:09 Timing is Key for Theatrical Releases
52:19 DocuView Dèjà Vu: "The Greatest Night in Pop" -
In this episode, Christian Taylor interviews Nicholas Bruckman, the director of the documentary film 'Minted'. They discuss the film, which explores the world of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) and the artists who have embraced this new technology. Bruckman shares how he discovered the story and gained access to the artists involved. The film follows digital artists on their journey of navigating the rise and fall of the NFT market. Bruckman also reflects on the challenges of documentary filmmaking and the importance of telling meaningful stories. The conversation explores the challenges of documentary filmmaking, including the difficulties of telling a macro story and the need to release control when working with local crews. The filmmakers discuss the process of selecting main characters and the challenges of managing expectations and dealing with participants who may not be featured prominently in the final film. Fear and doubt can arise during the creative process and it is important to retain a sense of freedom and exploration. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the financial aspects of documentary filmmaking and the potential of NFTs as a tool for artists.
Takeaways
The documentary film "Minted" explores the world of NFTs and the artists who have embraced this new technology. Director Nick Bruckman gained access to the artists and followed their journey as they navigated the rise and fall of the NFT market. The film highlights the challenges and opportunities of the digital art world and the impact of NFTs on artists' lives and careers.
Bruckman reflects on the importance of documentary filmmaking and the power of storytelling to create meaningful connections. Documentary filmmaking involves challenges such as telling a macro story and releasing control when working with local crews.
Selecting main characters can be a difficult process, and managing expectations and dealing with participants who may not be prominently featured in the film is important. Fear and doubt are common during the creative process, but it's important to retain a sense of freedom and exploration.
Financial stability in documentary filmmaking can be achieved through various avenues, such as commercial work or adjacent jobs in the industry. NFTs present an interesting tool for artists to explore, but marketing and getting work in front of collectors is still crucial.Timecodes
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
12:48 Exciting News and Distribution Deal for "Minted"
29:34 The Story of Karina and NFTs in Cuba
37:15 Dealing with Fear and Doubt in the Creative Process
52:48 Exploring NFTs as a Tool for Artists - Show more
