Marc Schölermann Shares His Commercial Directing Secrets In His New Book: "Directing Commercials."
Release Date: 10/26/2024
Filmmaker Matt Macedo Explains Directing Vertical Features.
Respect The Process
Director , the OG of this emerging vertical feature format, breaks it down for us. These aren't just quick clips—we're talking full 80 plus page scripts shot in five to ten days, distributed in bite-sized, addictive chunks. Matt's navigating this whole new world of cinema, where platforms like Reel Short are making billions and giving young filmmakers unprecedented opportunities. It's the Wild West of storytelling, and Matt's right in the middle of it, proving that creativity and adaptability are the true currencies of modern filmmaking. My actor-daughter has been crushing...
info_outline
My Latest Documentary: How One Farmer Fights for Family Farms.
Respect The Process
Lucinda, a badass 8th generation Missouri farmer, takes on the meat industry and proves ethical farming isn't just possible, it's profitable. Watch my short documentary (under 19 minutes) on YouTube... I know you'll love it. Thanks! 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 special, I'd prefer to jump on the phone with you and tell you more. Every year since our first, filmmakers have come back. Pretty much says it all. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach...
info_outline
Director Bryan Buckley: Super Bowl Ads, Social Change & Cinema With a Conscience.
Respect The Process
Director , a two-time Oscar-nominated writer/director, has earned the nickname “King of the Super Bowl” from The New York Times for directing 71 Super Bowl commercials since 2000. A co-founder of Hungry Man, Buckley’s work has been recognized with over 60 Cannes Lions (including two Grand Prix wins), multiple Emmys, a DGA Award, and induction into the MoMA permanent collection. In 2022, he was named the world’s most awarded commercial director by The One Show and D&AD. He’s also been honored as Adweek’s Commercial Director of the Decade and one of Creativity Magazine’s...
info_outline
Directing Actors From Casting to Final Cut.
Respect The Process
Monday, May 19th at 10am Pacific, I'm giving a live workshop on the Filmmakers Academy platform. I love working with actors, and I believe their performances are what truly sell a commercial. I'll be covering everything from initial conversations with casting directors to communicating with editors about the best takes and how to perserve the tone of the spot. So pumped about our , this September 25-28. We've only got eight spots left for our intimate group of 15 filmmakers. The whole experience is about defining your creative voice. I've even taken a leadership workshops, and Jeannette...
info_outline
How to Survive the Commercial Production Revolution with CMS Production President Tony Low.
Respect The Process
I sit down with , Owner and President of , to dive deep into the current state of commercial production. Tony reveals how union compliance really works and why major brands are suddenly creating their own studios. He breaks down the "flip" phenomenon on set and explains why Los Angeles is losing its production mojo. This is the real, unfiltered story of what's happening in production right now. Thanks Tony! 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 special, I'd prefer to jump on...
info_outline
Rock Climbing Drag Queens, Belize and Unconventional Storytelling with Dustin Devlin.
Respect The Process
When he's not shooting, filmmaker is likely out surfing on the Cape or soft-rocking (barefoot) somewhere. Moving from the editor suite to the director’s chair and everything in between, Dustin is enamored with the production process and knows the TLC required to nurture each project from beginning to end. Dustin co-founded VAGRANTS out of a need and passion to disrupt the status quo in the industry. 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 special, I'd prefer to jump on the...
info_outline
From Prince To Pick Up Trucks with Director Scott McCullough.
Respect The Process
Director 's career trajectory reads like a Hollywood fever dream. From shooting intimate music videos with Prince to capturing the raw energy of NASCAR and crafting cinematic commercials for Kubota and Pepsi, Scott's journey is a masterclass in creative adaptability. We dive deep into the art of networking, the importance of staying curious, and how a filmmaker can transform unexpected opportunities into a remarkable career. Whether you're a budding director or a seasoned pro, Scott's story will inspire you to embrace the unpredictable path of visual storytelling. FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
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.