Filmmaker Mixer

Production Designer Alexandra Schaller joins the Filmmaker Mixer Podcast to discuss creating the visual world of Netflix's Little Brother. From designing character-driven environments to constructing an entire family home on a soundstage, Alexandra shares how production design supports comedy and storytelling.Filmmakers will learn how visual choices reveal character, collaborate with directors, and elevate every scene through thoughtful design. Whether you're a production designer, filmmaker, or film student, this episode is packed with practical insights.

Writer/director and editor James Kondelik joins the Filmmaker Mixer Podcast to discuss building a career in genre filmmaking. We dive into low-budget horror strategy, directing action and suspense, theatrical indie releases, and what filmmakers can learn about pacing, tension, and audience engagement from genre cinema. Fans of horror and independent filmmaking will find plenty of practical insight in this episode

Carrie Coaplen and Jonathan Hawpe join Filmmaker Mixer to discuss Halcyon Daze, their documentary about Disney's Galactic Starcruiser and the passionate community that emerged around one of the most ambitious immersive experiences ever created.In this conversation, Carrie and Jonathan share how they transformed a personal obsession into a documentary, interviewed dozens of devoted passengers, and explored the psychology of fandom, belonging, and immersive storytelling. Filmmakers will learn about documentary structure, interview strategy, finding universal themes in niche subjects, and preserving cultural moments before they disappear.Whether you're a documentary filmmaker, festival programmer, Star Wars fan, or student of immersive experiences, this episode offers a fascinating look at storytelling that extends beyond the screen.

Writer-director Jeffrey Scott Collins joins Filmmaker Mixer to discuss Above the Line, a dark Hollywood heist comedy about six struggling creatives who get the chance to steal Best Picture trophies from the producer who wronged them.Jeff shares insights into writing ensemble stories, balancing crime and comedy, directing a cast that includes Cedric the Entertainer and Sophia Ali, and navigating the realities of independent filmmaking.Filmmakers will learn about genre blending, heist structure, directing actors, and turning personal industry experiences into compelling stories.

Director Jon Erwin joins Filmmaker Mixer to discuss Young Washington, the historical drama that explores George Washington's early years before becoming America's first president.Jon shares insights into directing period films, building large-scale battle sequences, researching historical figures, and crafting character-driven stories. Filmmakers will learn about leadership, visual storytelling, and creating emotionally engaging historical cinema.