Episode 200 | To The Stars Through Hardship - Per Aspera Ad Astra!
Release Date: 07/05/2023
Episode 223 | Documenting the $40 Billion Industry of NFTs
Documentary First
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...
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Episode 222 | The Crazy World of "Mad Props"
Documentary First
In this episode, Christian provides an update on company developments and announces the upcoming trailer for our next documentary, "Heroes of Carentan." She gives an exclusive about the limited theatrical release of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom." Special guests, Tom Biolchini and Juan Pablo Reinoso, producer, director, and writer of "Mad Props," delve into the origins of "Mad Props," detailing its evolution from a TV show concept to a full-fledged documentary. Juan shares insights into his career and how his reunion with Tom sparked their collaboration on this project. The discussion explores...
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Episode 221 | Meaningful Stories w/ Alex Ivany of Ifine: Beauty
Documentary First
In this episode, host Christian Taylor interviews Alex Ivany, a visual storyteller, about his journey in the documentary filmmaking industry. Alex shares his passion for social and racial justice, which led him to work on projects that shed light on marginalized communities. He discusses his role as a producer and editor on the film "Ifine: Beauty", which explores the issue of skin bleaching in Sierra Leone. Alex also provides tips for aspiring filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of networking, continuous learning, and finding a mentor. The episode concludes with a call to support the film...
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Episode 220 | Directing Going to Mars
Documentary First
In this episode, Christian Taylor interviews Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson, the directing duo behind the documentary "Going to Mars, the Nikki Giovanni Project." They discuss their background in filmmaking, the founding of Rada Studios , and their dedication to telling stories of the Black Diaspora. The conversation also covers their award nominations and recognition, the cinematic beauty of "Going to Mars," the challenges of making the film, and their favorite documentaries. Takeaways: • Movies and storytelling have always inspired Joe Brewster, leading him to pursue a career in...
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Episode 219 | Editor Extraordinaire Yvette Amirian
Documentary First
In this episode, host Christian Taylor interviews award-winning editor Yvette Amirian about her journey from documentary to narrative editing. Yvette shares her experiences working on various projects, including "EXmas" and "It Takes a Village". She discusses the differences between editing documentary and narrative films, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of both. Yvette also offers valuable tips for breaking into the film industry, highlighting the importance of building relationships and being kind to others. She shares her perspective on being a woman in the editing industry and the...
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Episode 218 | Getting Distributed w/ Joe Amodei Part 2
Documentary First
In this conversation, Christian Taylor interviews Joe Amodei, CEO of Virgil Films and Entertainment, about the film distribution industry. They discuss the changes in the industry, including the consolidation of companies and the impact of streaming services. Joe emphasizes the importance of collaboration between filmmakers and distributors, as well as the need for filmmakers to be involved in the marketing and distribution process. He also explains how distribution expenses affect the release of a film and the challenges of advertising in the current landscape. The conversation concludes with...
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Episode 217 | Award-Winning Cinematography w/ Laela Kilbourn
Documentary First
In this episode, Christian and Chad interview award-winning cinematographer Laela Kilbourn. They discuss her work on the documentary film Girl State, which premiered at Sundance 2024. Laela shares her experiences working with directors and the importance of trust in the DP-director relationship. She also explains the role of prime lenses in cinematography and how they can create a more cinematic look. Laela shares her journey in the film industry, from starting as a film loader to becoming a cinematographer. She discusses the challenges of advancing in the industry and the need to take risks...
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Episode 216 | Getting Distributed w/ Joe Amodei Part 1
Documentary First
In this episode, Christian Taylor interviews Joe Amodei of Virgil Films Entertainment about the changing landscape of film distribution. They discuss the role of distributors in acquiring and selling the rights to films, the rise of streaming platforms, and the challenges faced by filmmakers in finding trustworthy distributors. Joe shares his insights and experiences from his 20 years in the industry and offers advice for filmmakers considering self-distribution. Takeaways The role of distributors is to acquire and sell the rights to films, including digital platforms, TV channels, DVD,...
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Episode 215 | Honoring WWII Veteran George Ciampa (Ep. 115 Re-release)
Documentary First
On this very special podcast, we honor George Ciampa as Christian shares the news of his recent passing. George Ciampa, a World War II veteran and filmmaker, came on our podcast many times and can be heard on episodes #116, #117, #120, #121. He was born in 1925, served in the Graves Registration Service during WWII, and became a filmmaker in his 80's. You can visit George's website: to learn more about his story. Our first recording with George Ciampa was released in May 2021 and plays after a short introduction by Christian Taylor and Jason Rugg.
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Episode 214 | Entertainment Blogging w/ Josh Sharpe
Documentary First
In this episode, Jason and Christian provide a year-in-review and updates on their documentary films. They also introduce guest Josh Sharpe, a film/entertainment/theater journalist. Josh shares his background in reporting for cinema and offers tips for conducting interviews. The importance of reviews for filmmakers is discussed, along with the different types of interviews and the process of film reviewing. In this conversation Josh Sharpe discusses the world of movie reviews and how it has evolved with technology. He talks about how some reviewers start their own movie review websites or...
info_outlineWelcome to the latest episode of Documentary First, as we celebrate a momentous achievement: Our 200th Episode!
Join Christian and Jason as they dive deep into the past four years of our thought-provoking and inspiring podcast. Together, they remind us of the indispensable quality that every filmmaker must possess: tenacity. Prepare to be encouraged and motivated as they unveil the secrets to success in the ever-evolving world of cinema.
For a filmmaker, perseverance is the key that unlocks the gateway to the stars. These stars can take many forms, both figurative and literal, representing the pinnacle of our aspirations.
Just like steadfast guides, the stars watch over us, ever-present and within our grasp. They serve as a constant reminder that even though our goals may seem distant, they remain visible and within reach. With every courageous step we take towards our cinematic vision, we are bound to encounter challenges along the way. But fear not! These very adversities become the stepping stones that lead us towards the dazzling radiance of the stars we were destined to reach.
Get ready to be inspired as we continue to share the remarkable odyssey of filmmaking. We have an abundance of new, talented filmmakers waiting in the wings, eager to join us and delve into their unique processes and awe-inspiring experiences. It's a rollercoaster ride you won't want to miss!
And that's not all! Brace yourselves, because DocuView Déjà Vu is making a triumphant return! Get ready to rediscover your love for documentary films and relive those unforgettable cinematic moments.
So buckle up, dear listeners, as we embark on another thrilling chapter filled with passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of our cinematic dreams. Welcome to a podcast that will ignite your imagination and leave you craving more. Let's make magic happen together!
Summary
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Intro to Documentary First. 0:00
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Welcome back to Documentary First and inside look at a documentary filmmaker journey.
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Episode 200.
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How the podcast was born.
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Being an improviser as a filmmaker. 6:01
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Finding volunteers and flying people across the world.
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Being an improviser, solving problems.
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Journey from not finished movie to completed movie.
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Heroes of Carentan.
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How the film industry has changed. 10:59
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How the world has changed since pre-Covid.
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The challenges for independent filmmakers.
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The art of turning adversity into advantage.
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The difference between a filmmaker and everyone else.
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The best piece of advice Jason has ever gotten.
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Do the next thing first.
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How did Jason become a voice actor? 17:28
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Pursuing voice acting and animation.
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How the pandemic changed the animation industry.
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How Covid-19 has lowered the standards of what is acceptable.
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Tiktok vs Instagram.
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The problem with Social Media and content. 21:26
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How people consume Tiktok and Instagram reels.
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How film is designed to make you feel.
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Making a deal with the devil.
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Why independent filmmakers need to market their films.
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The marketing strategy for "God's Not Dead".
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Encounter with General JP McGee. 28:21
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How Christian met General JP McGee, commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division.
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Partnership with the 101st Airborne Division
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Powerful interviews with the 101st Airborne Division.
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The synergy of past and present coming through the interviews
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The cost of combat.
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Do not give up on your film. 34:11
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Heart comes through in everything at Doc First.
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Word of encouragement, don't quit.
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DocuView Déjà Vu Segment
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Book: The Obstacle is the Way
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Coming soon to the podcast - New filmmakers in the wings!
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DocuView Déjà Vu:
Jason - Still: A Michael J Fox Movie, 2023, Rated R, 95 mins on Apple+, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt19853258/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_still
Christian - The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, Rated R, 2023, 97 mins, Rent or buy on Prime Video or inflight in United Airlines, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12380422/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_7_tt_8_nm_0_q_the%2520sublte
“A Man Called Otto” - 2022, 126 mins, PG13, in flight on United Airlines, IMDB Link:https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7405458/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_a%2520man%2520called