Episode 237 | Making a Hit Mini TV Series feat. Evan Wise
Release Date: 11/06/2024
Episode 247 | Eric Gardner, Director of ”Confessions of a CEO”
Documentary First
Are you fascinated by the power of storytelling and the secrets behind captivating documentaries? If you’re into deep dives into reality TV, the creative process, and the art of balancing hard-hitting truths with compelling narratives, this episode is for you. Join host Christian Taylor and visionary documentary filmmaker Eric Gardner as they unpack the making of Confessions of a CEO: My Life in an Out of Balance World—the riveting true story of Tom Gegax. In this heartfelt conversation, Eric shares his personal journey from his early days in reality TV and film school to...
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Episode 246 | Liz Carpenter, Mover and Shaker in US Politics - Part 2
Documentary First
In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with filmmakers Abby Ginzberg and Christy Carpenter to discuss their latest documentary, Shaking It Up: The Life and Times of Liz Carpenter. The film explores the remarkable legacy of Liz Carpenter—a journalist, author, and women's rights advocate who broke barriers as the press secretary for First Lady Lady Bird Johnson. Carpenter was a trailblazer in political communications, known for her wit, tenacity, and dedication to advancing women's voices in government and media. The conversation delves into Liz Carpenter’s...
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Episode 245 | Liz Carpenter, Mover and Shaker in US Politics
Documentary First
In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor engages with filmmakers Abby Ginzberg and Christy Carpenter about their documentary "Shaking It Up: The Life and Times of Liz Carpenter." The conversation explores Liz Carpenter's legacy as a trailblazer in journalism and politics, the personal journeys of getting into directing, and the collaborative process of producing the documentary. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the challenges of fundraising, and the impact of Liz's life on their own careers. In this conversation, Ginzberg and Carpenter discuss the...
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Episode 244 | Film Entrepreneurship w/ Teddy Cannon
Documentary First
In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with seasoned media professional Teddy Cannon, whose 25+ years in the industry span politics, entertainment, and documentary filmmaking. Teddy shares his journey growing up in a foreign service family, transitioning from in front of the camera to behind it, and his deep dive into the world of archival production. They explore the critical role of archival producers, the complexities of rights and clearances, and the evolving landscape of documentary filmmaking in response to current events. Teddy also discusses the...
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Episode 243 | Q&A With East Coast Filmmaker Robin Hamilton
Documentary First
In this powerful episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with Emmy-winning filmmaker Robin Hamilton for a deep dive into the art of storytelling, social justice, and the impact of documentary filmmaking. Robin shares her journey from journalism to filmmaking, her passion for uncovering untold stories, and the responsibility filmmakers have in shaping conversations about history and justice. Together, they explore the significance of Fannie Lou Hamer’s legacy, the challenges of tackling difficult histories, and the bravery required to address controversial topics. Robin...
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Episode 242 | Interview with Mt. Everest Explorer: Alex Harz
Documentary First
In this episode, filmmaker and Mount Everest summiteer Alex Harz takes us on a breathtaking journey, sharing how he turned a childhood dream into a groundbreaking dual-format documentary series. Alex recounts his early years in Spain and Germany, his passion for storytelling, and his evolution as a filmmaker with a strong business mindset. Listeners will gain insights into the unparalleled challenges of filming on Everest, from navigating deadly icefalls to keeping gear functional in subzero conditions. Alex discusses the creative and technical feats behind producing a 2D film and an immersive...
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Episode 241 | "A Remarkable 2024" Retrospective Company Update
Documentary First
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...
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Episode 240 | Documentary First's Next Steps w/ Jake Taylor
Documentary First
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. ...
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Episode 239 | A Fresh Take on Renaissance Man, Leonardo da Vinci - PBS
Documentary First
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...
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Episode 238 | Documenting a Viral Country Music TikTok Trend, “Fancy Like Walter Hayes”
Documentary First
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...
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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
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.