Marc Schölermann Shares His Commercial Directing Secrets In His New Book: "Directing Commercials."
Release Date: 10/26/2024
That Time Val Kilmer Took Us Camping.
Respect The Process
Val Kilmer was more than a movie star—he was a father, a poet, an actor, and an enigma. But above all, he was a generous soul who deeply understood the importance of creating meaningful moments. When our sons were in grade school together, Val invited my family on an unforgettable camping trip to his sprawling ranch in New Mexico. Every activity he planned was designed to build lasting memories for all of us. But this isn’t just a story about a weekend in the wilderness—it's a tribute to a man whose heart was every bit as extraordinary as his performances on screen. FILMMAKER...
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Sniffing Glue and Cutting Felt with Mike Slane and Adrian Bishop, aka Practice.
Respect The Process
My friends fimmakers and are the creative duo behind , a commercial directing studio known for their whimsical mixed-media animation. They've worked on projects for Sesame Street, Thumbtack, and Blonde Beards, bringing characters to life with a unique blend of practical effects and digital magic. Their approach is all about play, creativity, and finding joy in the process. Check out there site or visit them on the site for US work. Either way, you find yourself smiling. COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP 04.05.2025 - LAST SPOT! Filmmakers learn how to win jobs and craft better work that...
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Chasing Creativity and Community with Mack Garrison of Dash Studio.
Respect The Process
, the co-founder and creative director of , a motion design agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Mack and I cover a ton of ground in this conversation - from his adventures hiking in Patagonia, to the origin story of starting his own studio, to the importance of building genuine relationships in this industry. We also dive into the challenges of balancing creativity and business realities, and Mack shares some killer insights on effective leadership. So buckle up, because this is a free-flowing, fun chat that I know you're really going to enjoy. COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP 04.05.2025...
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PJ Pereira Is Redefining Creativity: Exploring the Transformative Power of AI in Advertising.
Respect The Process
My esteemed guest is PJ Pereira, a true creative pioneer at the intersection of advertising, storytelling, and artificial intelligence. As co-founder of , he has led groundbreaking AI-driven campaigns (see: Coca Cola's ai made ) that push the boundaries of modern marketing. A thought leader in the industry, PJ explores how AI enhances creativity, shaping the future of advertising and branded content. Beyond marketing, he is also an accomplished author, bringing his storytelling expertise to both fiction and emerging AI narratives. COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP 04.05.2025 Filmmakers learn how...
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Crafting Captivating Director's Treatments with Charles Barclay of Hollywood Secret Service.
Respect The Process
A pleasure to chat with , the founder of He's a master of director's treatments and more. Check out about treatments in Little Black Book. COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP 04.05.2025 Filmmakers learn how to win jobs and craft better work that leads to more opportunities. Agency creatives will learn how the flow goes on-set before the shoot. Limit 10 filmmakers. Includes one-on-one onboarding call. to direct with confidence. FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '25 Thursday, September 25th – Sunday, September 28th, 2025. Limit 15 Filmmakers. This will be our 4th year and it's so...
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Embracing Your Creative Journey: My Reflections on Passion and Perseverance.
Respect The Process
As I sit in my trailer-studio, "Breezy," we call her, I can't help but reflect on the journey that has brought me here. From my early days watching Steve Martin on SNL to the evolution of my own creative path, the pursuit of artistry has been a constant companion. This is just me, share insights on committing to your passion projects, embracing change, and finding fulfillment in the very process of creating. I hope this rambling reflection inspires you to keep pushing forward, to honor the craft, and to never lose sight of the resilience that lies at the heart of the creative spirit. PS I've...
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The Sawtooth Saga Continues: Chris Salters Part II
Respect The Process
Chris Salters, editor and founder of , tells us the importance of using the right tool for the right job in filmmaking. Whether it's LED walls, green screens, or AI-powered tools, the key is understanding the limitations and challenges of each technology and using them responsibly to achieve the desired creative outcome. It's about leveraging technology in a thoughtful and effective manner. Chris and I are both passionate about respecting the craft and delivering the best possible work for our clients and collaborators. LIVE BENEFIT FOR LA FIRE VICTIMS - FEB. 18th ....
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Launching Sawtooth: How Editor Chris Salters is Redefining the Post-Production Landscape.
Respect The Process
Editor Chris Salters launched , his own freelance-driven editorial house. Chris and I talk about how he's providing an all-in-one post solution for agencies and brands. We unpack the evolving role of AI in post-production, and we dive into his work in spots obviously. I love his work on the Pinocchio documentary by Guillermo del Toro, where managing massive amounts of footage was key. Of course we must about the future of AI in filmmaking, from LED walls to ethical concerns, and why respecting the edit process still matters. And so much. Great chat! LIVE BENEFIT FOR LA FIRE VICTIMS -...
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Make Your Passion Project Now With Filmmaker Michael Patrick Jann.
Respect The Process
Writer/Director/Producer ("Drop Dead Gorgeous", "The State", "The Good Doctor") and I are holding a live webinar called on Feb. 18th. 6pm Pacific. Live with a spirited Q&A and VIP pop ins. Sign up . 100% of the ticket sales go to Red Cross LA to help the victims of the LA fires. Graciously hosted by our dear friends at the . Born of a chat Michael and I were having, he said, "while it's good to know the difference between 24mm and 70mm lenses and have a rich friend who is also a movie star, it doesn't matter if you can't define and explore your vision." Your vision is the center of...
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Micro Steps to Macro Progress: Tiny Assignments for Filmmakers.
Respect The Process
Welcome our newest sponsor: - the best commercial directing courses on the planet. Thanks to all that have supported the victims of these horrific LA fires. My family is safe, but countless friends and colleagues have lost their homes. We're doing a fund-raising webcast called with filmmaker Michael Patrick Jann (Award-Winning Writer/Director/Producer "Organ Trail", "Drop Dead Gorgeous", "The State" Founding Member) and myself moderating. 100% of the proceeds are donated to Red Cross LA. This is a great collab between and the , who will host. Special pop-in guests: Cami Delavigne...
info_outlineVeteran commercial directors Marc Scholermann shares his many insights on navigating the industry, building a diverse portfolio, collaborating with agencies, and the importance of maintaining strong client relationships. Wow, there's a wealth of practical advice for both aspiring and seasoned commercial directors looking to elevate their craft and grow their careers. Marc's new book, "Directing Commercials: The Art & Craft Of Commercial FIlmmaking."
By Marc's book and while you're waiting enjoy this work here. He's directed a film called "Bark" that premiered at Fantastic Fest and the Shanghai International Film Festival, expected to be distributed in the first quarter of 2025.
Producer/Director Staci Talley is sponsoring one female filmmaker to attend Commercial Directing Bootcamp, December 14th, 2024 in Los Angeles. You cover travel & lodging. Bootcamp is on her. I am so grateful for her generosity and touched by this gesture.
Her IG post (@staciproducer) post aligns with my outlook - investing in oneself - now she’s investing in you! Women supporting women.
WHY?
“Before I discovered Commercial Directing Film School, I was feeling a bit stuck as a commercial producer. My experience with Jordan and CDFS really helped me figure out how to take the next step into directing and diversifying my production experience. Now, I want to give back by funding the diversity scholarship, so other women can find the same support and confidence that I did. I know CDFS and Jordan’s mentorship is a great way to do just that!” - Staci Talley
HOW: Email Staci and myself if you’re interested. Filmmakers are judged on:
1. Quality of storytelling. Send one spot or film under 2 minutes.
2. Need for exposure to ad industry, tools & information.
3. Passion for ad & brand stories.
DEADLINE: November 10th. The lucky recipient will be notified November 15th.
GUEST SPEAKER: Veteran Agency Producer Anne Kurtzman is back. She’s no-holds-barred and produces for Carvana, Toyota, Pom, Kia and more. Listen to Anne on Respect The Process.
NEXT BOOTCAMP IS DECEMBER 14th, 2024 - SIGN UP NOW
MY last in-person Bootcamp of the year is Saturday, December 14th in LA. Please take advantage of that last minute 2024 write-off. Limit 10 Filmmakers.
MAGIC MIND MENTAL PERFORMANCE SHOTS
The code is BRADY20 - try https://www.magicmind.com/BRADY20 chug it daily after your coffee. If you follow me on Instagram you know my geniune endorsment of this mighty mind power juice. You get 20% off for both one time purchase and up to 48% off if you choose a subscription like me.
ONLINE COURSES
Check out my Masterclass or Commercial Directing Shadow online courses. (Note this link to the Shadow course is the one I mention in the show.) All my courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details.
How To Pitch Ad Agencies and Director’s Treatments Unmasked are now bundled together with a free filmmaker consultation call, just like my other courses. Serious about making spots? The Commercial Director Mega Bundle for serious one-on-one mentoring and career growth.
Here's the Lbb Director's Playbook article sharing my pitch secrets. And my follow up that came out this week, How To Write Winning Treatments.
4+ NEW BEHIND-THE-SCENES
I've uploaded more raw behind-the-scenes, with dailies, agency interaction, directing top talent and collaborating with my crew, all at Commercial Directing Masterclass. And you'll wanna check out the new courses, like Behind The Beard and Winning Director Treatments.
Thanks to our editor Jake Brady We could not do the show without him and love this guy behind words. Need your pod spruced up? Check out his Podcast Wax.
Thanks,
Jordan
This episode is just about 75 minutes.
My cult classic mockumentary, “Dill Scallion” is online so I’m giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. I’ve decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow. Thank you.
Respect The Process podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.