Trilith Institute Talks

Trilith Institute Talks is a roundtable-style podcast where established film industry professionals and local Georgia film students connect through meaningful, casual conversation about the magic of making movies. Follow along each week as we dive deep into various industry topics, discuss Hollywood's legends & legacies, and learn a thing or two about the aspirations of the next generation of filmmakers. Trilith Institute Talks: a podcast for film students, film professionals, and everyone in-between.

Episode 2x15 - Kristina Arjona | Intimacy and Mental Health Coordination In The Film Industry 05/15/2025

Episode 2x14 - Colleen Russell | Exploring the Magic of Trilith Studios 05/01/2025

Episode 2x13 - Austin Baur | The Intersection of VFX & Storytelling 04/24/2025

Episode 2x12 - Siddarth Kantamneni | The Right Frame of Mind Behind The Camera 04/17/2025

Episode 2x11 - Todd Harris | Taking the Gaming Industry To The Next Level in Georgia 04/10/2025

Episode 2x10 - Wynn Everett | A Passion For Acting & The Fullness of Life 04/03/2025

Episode 2x09 - Lindsey Kear | Designing & Consulting The World of Costumes 03/27/2025

Episode 2x08 - Jeff Fastner | Navigating the Animation Industry 03/20/2025

Episode 2x07 - Darren Genet | Cinematography & Life Behind The Camera 03/13/2025

Episode 2x07 - Darren Genet | Cinematography & Life Behind The Camera Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft is joined by acclaimed Cinematographer Darren Genet, known for his work on shows like The Vampire Diaries, CSI Miami, and Outer Banks, to discuss his career journey from still photography to cinematography. Film students Jane and Davis also join the conversation to explore the relationship between directors and cinematographers and how to create their own opportunities in the film industry. Darren shares his insights on the importance of hard work, understanding the why behind cinematic choices, and making thoughtful creative decisions that contribute to storytelling. The episode provides a wealth of practical advice for aspiring filmmakers on how to navigate the industry and master their craft behind the camera. Episode Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Trilith Institute Talks 00:17 Meet Darren Genet: Cinematographer Extraordinaire 01:22 Darren's Journey: From Miami to Hollywood 06:16 Jane's Path to Filmmaking 09:52 Davis' Leap into the Film Industry 10:49 Making Your Own Luck in Filmmaking 12:03 The Importance of Passion and Persistence 16:57 The Role of a Dolly Grip and Career Growth 25:22 Balancing Career and Personal Creative Pursuits 30:04 Global Reach of MBS Equipment Company 30:29 Film vs. TV: Unique Storytelling Approaches 31:37 Expressing Personal Taste in Cinematography 33:10 Challenges of Shooting and Directing Simultaneously 35:08 The Importance of Collaboration on Set 36:11 Film School: A Safe Space to Fail 36:53 Building Chemistry Between DP and Director 44:23 Practical Examples of Cinematic Choices 55:56 Adapting to Established Show Styles 01:00:06 Balancing Personal Projects and Professional Obligations 01:01:43 Closing Remarks and Podcast Information About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/35669700

Episode 2x06 - Kato Lawton | Indie Film Production Design & Method Acting 03/06/2025

Episode 2x05 - Jeffrey Stepakoff | Reimagining Hollywood's Writing Ecosystem 02/27/2025

Episode 2x04 - Kristina Peterson | Life Lessons of an Assistant Director 02/20/2025

Episode 2x03 - Raymond Carr | Unlocking the Secrets of Puppetry 02/13/2025

Episode 2x02 - Paul Jenkins | Video Games, Comic Books, & The Importance of Creative Confidence 02/07/2025

Episode 2x01 - Diane Venora | Vulnerability, Humility, & Love - The Life Of A Working Actor 02/03/2025

Trilith Institute Talks - Season 2 Trailer 01/20/2025

Episode 1x12 - Jim Berney | A Legendary Career In Visual Effects 06/27/2024

Episode 1x11 - Suzan Satterfield | Shaping Sustainability As A Producer 06/20/2024

Episode 1x11 - Suzan Satterfield | Shaping Sustainability As A Producer Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft sits down with esteemed Producer, Suzan Satterfield, Vice Chair of the Producers Guild of America's Atlanta chapter, to discuss her extensive career in the film industry. Joined by film students Chelsea and Matt, they delve into the intricacies of producing nature documentaries, the critical importance of environmental sustainability in filmmaking, and ways to build a career in Atlanta. The conversation covers practical advice on pitching projects, the evolution of Atlanta as a film hub, and the innovative steps the industry can take toward sustainable production practices. Suzan also shares personal anecdotes and valuable lessons from her multifaceted career in the production landscape. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Trillith Institute Talks 00:42 - Meet the Guests: Suzan, Matt, and Chelsea 01:22 - Suzan Satterfield's Career Journey 03:30 - Insights into Producing and Writing 05:30 - Challenges and Adaptability in Filmmaking 11:16 - Perfecting the Pitch: Tips and Experiences 19:09 - Safety and Unexpected Situations on Set 26:51 - Lessons Learned Early in a Producer's Career 27:15 - The Importance of Flexibility in Documentaries 29:38 - Creating Camaraderie on Set 32:17 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 34:51 - The Value of Punctuality and Asking Questions 38:55 - The Evolution of Atlanta's Film Industry 45:57 - Sustainability in Film Production 55:29 - Supporting Independent Projects in Atlanta 57:15 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Film Industry Terminology In This Episode Boom Operator - A Boom Operator is the person who holds the microphone (on a boom pole) for the Sound Dept on a film set Pitch - A pitch is a presentation to networks and other Producers in the film industry that might want to greenlight your idea into becoming a tv show or film. Crafty - Craft Service is the department on a film set that is in charge of making sure craft service food and drinks are available to cast and crew throughout the shoot day. About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31819027

Episode 1x10 - Caleb Wood | Inside Post Production 06/13/2024

Episode 1x10 - Caleb Wood | Inside Post Production Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft converses with Post Producer Caleb Wood, along with film students Xavi and Mia. Caleb shares his journey from working on Tyler Perry productions to his current role at Moonshine Post, where he collaborates on projects for Paramount Plus and BET... The discussion delves into the intricacies of post production, the importance of VFX, and the evolving film industry in the South. Caleb offers insights on finding passion in storytelling, the complexities of post production logistics, and the significant role of teamwork. The episode also highlights the value of learning industry phases and building networks for aspiring filmmakers. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to VFX in Film 00:15 - Meet the Host and Guests 00:23 - Caleb Wood's Career Journey 00:33 - Discussion on Post Production 01:39 - Roles and Experiences in Post Production 03:36 - VFX and Its Importance 06:31 - Challenges and Insights in Post Production 07:43 - Favorite Types of VFX 10:52 - Day-to-Day of a Post Producer 14:35 - Skills and Misconceptions in Post Production 27:47 - Communication and Collaboration on Set 31:58 - Caleb's Move to Atlanta and Career Growth 35:06 - Building Relationships in Production 35:50 - Joining Moonshine Post 36:29 - Adapting to Industry Changes 36:58 - Navigating Strikes and Indie Projects 37:59 - The Evolution of Atlanta's Film Scene 38:48 - Challenges and Reflections During Strikes 39:40 - Finding Opportunities in Uncertainty 41:15 - Networking Tips for Aspiring Filmmakers 44:23 - MoviePass and Film Memories 45:35 - Family Influence on Film Passion 56:21 - Theater and Film: A Family Affair 01:01:04 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Film Industry Terminology In This Episode CGI - CGI stands for computer generated imagery, which is the use of computer graphics in art and media. Roto - Slang for rotoscoping, which is an animation technique that animators use to trace over motion picture footage, frame by frame, to produce realistic action. Resolve - slang for a software program called DaVinci Resolve, which is the world's only all in one solution for editing, color, VFX, motion graphics and audio AVID - AVID Media Composer is the most acclaimed and trusted collaborative video editing software solution across the media and entertainment industry. It is widely considered an industry-standard technology and has been for some time. Conform - Conforming is when you re-link lower quality footage (like proxies, SD, etc...) to the higher res, mastering quality footage after you are done editing. About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31724077

Episode 1x09 - Elaine Hendrix | A Journey Through Acting and Advocacy 06/06/2024

Episode 1x09 - Elaine Hendrix | A Journey Through Acting and Advocacy Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft welcomes actress and animal rights activist Elaine Hendrix. Known for her roles as Meredith Blake in 'The Parent Trap' and Alexis Carrington in 'Dynasty,' Elaine, along with acting student guests Sam and Mia, discuss various acting methods, breaking into the industry, and sustaining creativity in the age of digital storytelling... Participants share personal tales, industry insights, and the importance of professional resilience. Elaine emphasizes the critical role of proper training, the influence of social media on modern acting careers, and the profound impact of learning to regulate one’s nervous system. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction and Rehearsal Insights 00:16 - Welcome to Truth Institute Talks 00:49 - Meet the Guests: Sam and Mia 02:12 - Elaine Hendrix Joins the Conversation 06:22 - Elaine's Journey into Acting 09:52 - Navigating the Industry: Atlanta vs. LA 16:53 - The Impact of Social Media on Acting 26:16 - Challenges of Self-Taping and Auditions 30:16 - The Importance of Training and Professionalism 30:30 - Booking Dynasty: A Journey Through Seasons 32:29 - Staying Humble in the Acting Industry 34:57 - Mental Health and Rejection in Acting 43:26 - Daily Life on Set: From Call Times to Downtime 51:12 - Acting Techniques and Continuous Learning 56:52 - The Impact of Dance on Acting 01:00:31 - Closing Remarks and Podcast Information Film Industry Terminology In This Episode ADR - this acronym stands for "automated dialogue replacement", a process of re-recording audio in a studio to improve sound quality or change dialogue. Fittings - costume fittings are a regular part of an actor's life... Every episode, and usually every scene, requires multiple options of wardrobe for the director, producers, and the actor themselves to choose from, so actors are regularly brought in to try on new costumes. Headshot - a printed photo showcasing an actor's appearance; usually printed on 8.5x11 letter photo paper and sent to casting agencies and casting directors to promote an actor for casting considerations. Basecamp PA - this Production Assistant oversees the day to day life at "basecamp" on a film set, which usually means they notify actors at their trailers when they are needed on set, or at the hair and makeup trailer before going to set... Basecamp PA's also track all times for actors and stunt performers, which are then reported back to the Production Office (and SAG) the next day. About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31624217

Episode 1x08 - Myles Humphus | Smashing Into The World of Stunts 05/30/2024

Episode 1x08 - Myles Humphus | Smashing Into The World of Stunts Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft chats with Stunt Coordinator and Stunt Double for Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Myles Humphus... Joined by film students Davis and Rosa, the discussion delves into the relationship between Directors and Stunt Coordinators, the intricacies of working with actors who perform their own stunts, and the unique fighting styles brought to life in action films... Myles shares his journey from working on football commercials to MMA fighting and ultimately to stunt coordination on major projects like NBC's 'The Equalizer.' The panel explores various aspects of stunt work, including preparation, safety, and the art of storytelling through physical action. The episode offers valuable insights for aspiring filmmakers looking to understand the nuanced roles and challenges of stunt performers in the film industry. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Stunt Filmmaking 00:15 - Meet the Host and Guests 00:58 - Miles Humphess: Career Beginnings 01:48 - Challenges and Triumphs in Stunt Work 05:15 - The Reality of Background Performers 12:31 - Breaking into the Stunt Industry 17:05 - Training and Skills for Stunt Performers 20:28 - Directing and Choreographing Stunt Scenes 30:11 - Speculating on Extraction 3 30:34 - Director Involvement in Stunt Coordination 33:14 - Understanding Previs 34:22 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 36:17 - The Importance of Collaboration 41:24 - Acting in Stunts 43:42 - Writing and Stunt Coordination 48:59 - Character-Specific Fight Styles 52:03 - Using Doubles Effectively 54:16 - Balancing Actor and Double Dynamics 58:49 - Conclusion and Credits Film Industry Terminology In This Episode PreViz - a filmed / virtual previsualuzation of a scene that references the action beats of the scene; often used as a way for Stunt departments to show the stunts in a particular scene to a director before they actually film the scene on set. SAG - the Screen Actor's Guild is the organization that represents performers and media professionals who work in film, TV, radio, games and more. Steadicam - a steadicam is a camera stabilizer mount for motion picture cameras. This makes the camera almost seem as if it's floating throughout a space. Stunt double - a physical "double" of an actor, a Stunt Double is a stunt performer who is dressed to copy the look of a specific actor on a film set and perform their specific stunts. About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31519192

Episode 1x07 - Mariam Yacoub | Coordinating Life & The Production Office 05/23/2024

Episode 1x07 - Mariam Yacoub | Coordinating Life & The Production Office Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! Host Hunter Barcroft chats with Production Coordinator Mariam Yacoub, alongside film students Amber and Matt, discussing different pathways into film production, working on projects with variously-sized budgets, and essential skills for aspiring Office PA's. Miriam reflects on her career journey from Florida to Georgia, working on Marvel Studios projects and most recently Clint Eastwood's 'Juror No. 2.' Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Unlocking the Secrets to Breaking into the Film Industry 00:18 - Welcome to Trillith Institute Talks: A Deep Dive with Miriam Yacoub 00:52 - Journey to Production: Miriam's Path from Florida to Marvel Studios 01:20 - Film Students Amber and Matt Share Their Aspirations and Challenges 03:51 - Navigating the Film Industry: From Internships to Production Roles 16:06 - The Production Office: A Behind-the-Scenes Look with Miriam 20:51 - Craft Service Insights and the Importance of Small Details 23:12 - Exploring Film School Experiences and Future Aspirations 27:11 - Discovering Talent and Artistic Journeys 27:38 - The Evolution of Film in Georgia 28:12 - The Indie Film Scene: A Closer Look 30:23 - Career Aspirations and Work-Life Balance 30:57 - Debunking Production Misconceptions 34:38 - The Importance of People Skills in Production 39:45 - Navigating Career Challenges in the Film Industry 42:02 - Educational Insights for Aspiring Filmmakers 49:47 - Redefining Work-Life Balance in Filmmaking 51:44 - Georgia's Growing Film Industry: Opportunities and Insights 53:05 - Closing Thoughts and Resources Film Industry Terminology In This Episode Basecamp - the physical location where all cast and producer trailers exist on a film set. Also usually home to both hair and makeup trailers, as well as the costumes dept trailer. Exhibit G - a physical document that tracks all information regarding cast member in, out and lunch times on any given day of a film shoot. This data is recorded and reported to SAG. PR - slang term for a Production Report, which is a legal document generated by the Production Office staff for every shoot day on a film or project... This document records all data for any given day, and is meant to reflect what happened on the day to the smallest detail. UPM - a Unit Production Manager is the highest tier of employment in the Production Office, is technically recognized as a union position under the DGA (Director's Guild of America). COI's - a certificate of insurance generated to provide film industry vendors or property owners with proof that your production is insured for filming About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31428637

Episode 1x06 - John Blanford & Dan McDonough | From Set PAs To Producing Their First Feature Film 05/16/2024

Episode 1x06 - John Blanford & Dan McDonough | From Set PAs To Producing Their First Feature Film Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! This episode of Trilith Institute Talks features a detailed conversation with Producers John Blanford, and Dan McDonough of Pastime Pictures, who share their journey in the film industry, from starting as set production assistants (Set PAs) in Atlanta to producing their first feature film, 'The Boys of Summer.' Host Hunter Barcroft, alongside recent film graduate Aaron, delves into various aspects of filmmaking, including the transition from AD's (Assistant Director's) to Producer, the importance of a supportive and communicative set environment, the impact of technological advancements like virtual stages, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the demanding film industry. The discussion touches on themes of empowerment, creativity, and the evolving landscape of film production. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks: The Journey of Filmmakers 00:46 - Introducing the Producers of Boys of Summer 01:26 - The Unique Paths into the Film Industry 08:26 - The Power of Adaptation and Learning on Set 10:18 - Transitioning from AD to Producer: A Learning Curve 13:19 - The Continuous Learning Journey in Filmmaking 15:52 - Navigating Challenges and Trust on Set 17:41 - Creating a Positive Set Culture with Pastime Pictures 23:03 - Reflecting on the Evolution of Set Culture in Atlanta 27:12 - The Importance of Experimentation and Learning in Filmmaking 29:04 - Overcoming Nervousness and Learning to Communicate on Set 30:46 - Navigating the Rolodex: Climbing the Industry Ladder 31:31 - The Coffee Catastrophe: A Lesson in Persistence 35:43 - From PA to Producer: Building a Brand During COVID 39:20 - Securing Mel Gibson: The High-Stakes Journey of 'Boys of Summer' 44:21 - Navigating Challenges: Animals, Budgets, and Work-Life Balance 51:19 - Embracing Change: Learning from the Next Generation 57:12 - Shifting Industry Paradigms: A Vision for a Better Work-Life Balance Film Industry Terminology In This Episode Set PA’s: non-union, bottom of the totem pole workers on a film set (set production assistants) First Team: a slang term referring to the cast/ acting talent on a film of movie Day Playing: the act of working occasional days on a film set as part of the production staff AD’ing: the act and/ or job of Assistant Directing on a film set "Surfing The Channels": the act of flipping from channel to channel on a walkie talkie, which is widely used to communicate across departments on a film set About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31329317

Episode 1x05 - Kurt Kornemann | A Key Grip's Journey in Filmmaking 05/09/2024

Episode 1x05 - Kurt Kornemann | A Key Grip's Journey in Filmmaking Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! This episode of Trilith Institute Talks, hosted by Hunter Barcroft, features an engaging conversation with Kurt Kornemann, a seasoned Key Grip with experience on high-profile films such as Spy Kids, Zero Dark Thirty, True Grit, Rushmore, Selena, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3... Kurt walks us through his role on set, the responsibilities of being a Key Grip, and the creative and technical challenges that Key Grips face in the film industry. The discussion also explores Kurt's career journey, from his early fascination with film to his experiences on various movie sets, including his work on Selena and with visionary directors like Quentin Tarantino... He shares insights on the evolution of filmmaking, the impact of filming location on production, and the essence of teamwork in creating cinematic magic. Additionally, film students Matt and AJ share their aspirations and experiences in the industry, highlighting the influence of figures like Robert Rodriguez on their careers. The episode delves into the changes in movie-making techniques, the importance of keeping a crew well-fed, and the future of storytelling in the era of short-form content. Kurt's stories reveal the gritty, thrilling, and often unpredictable world of film production, emphasizing the passion, resilience, and creativity required to succeed in the industry we all love. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Sunday Mornings with Selena: A Nostalgic Start / Cold Open 00:16 - Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks: Behind the Scenes with Kurt Kornemann 00:43 - The Life of a Key Grip: Kurt's Journey in Film 03:42 - From PA to Key Grip: Kurt's Path to Success 07:31 - Inspiring the Next Generation: Trilith Institute's Script to Screen Summer Camp 09:04 - The Magic of Filmmaking: Personal Journeys and Inspirations 15:51 - Craft Service: The Unsung Heroes of Film Sets 17:30 - The Evolution of a Film Career: From PA to AD 19:56 - The Future of Filmmaking in the Age of Short-Form Content 20:29 - Exploring the Evolution of Movie Runtimes 21:14 - The Business Model of Short Films 22:24 - Navigating Hollywood's Consolidation and Its Impact 24:11 - Screenwriting Essentials: A Course Overview 24:24 - The Dynamics of Film Production: From Indie to Blockbuster 25:12 - Crafting the Film: The Key Grip's Perspective 30:14 - Adventures and Challenges on International Sets 31:59 - The Economic and Cultural Impact of Filming in Georgia 36:12 - The Personal Journey of a Filmmaker in Georgia 42:52 - Reflecting on the Evolution of Film and Television 45:30 - Closing Thoughts and Podcast Information Film Industry Terminology In This Episode Boom - the microphone pole that Boom Operator's (Sound Dept) use to capture sound above actor's heads or outside of the image/ frame of any given shot on a movie or TV show. Key Grip - the leader of the Grip Dept, Key Grip's are typically responsible for all rigging and the shaping of light in any given camera shot. Condor - a very large crane; typically used to hold rigging and light shades/ screens above or to the side of a film set to help shade or shape the light you see on camera Locking Up - the act of making sure a film set is secured and cast/ crew are not needlessly walking around during a take. Could also mean traffic control, if shooting on or near an active roadway. Dolly - a typically large piece of machinery on wheels that is designed to move a camera along a track at a slow, steady pace. Dollies are used for long tracking shots where the camera "floats" through a set. Color Pass - the edited cut of a film or project that has been processed through color grading, to add whatever changes filmmakers might want to help or change the "look" of the shots that were captured while filming. AD - an abbreviated name for the title of Assistant Director. This term is widely used to address or refer to both the title of Assistant Director itself, or the entire Assistant Director department on a film crew (AD Dept). Keying - technically speaking, this lingo has two separate meanings! In this episode, keying refers to the act of being second in command in a department.. "Keys" is a term widely used as a second in command of most departments on a film crew. Best Boy - the "Key" or second in command of the Grip department (or Set Lighting department). Giraffe Crane - a large crane with a long neck, that can be used on a film set for a variety of purposes. Walk & Talk - a scene in a show/ movie where two or more actors are walking from point to point while having a conversation with eachother. Jib - a camera crane that can raise and lower a camera in and out of a shot as needed Stakebed - a large utility vehicle that is made to move a large amount of gear to and from set/ filming location. About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31207497

Episode 1x04 - Lauren Petzke | The Art and Journey of Directing 05/02/2024

Episode 1x04 - Lauren Petzke | The Art and Journey of Directing Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft explores the world of directing with esteemed Director, Lauren Petzke and emerging talents Ebony Blanding and film student Arielle. The conversation dives into the challenges and excitements of life on set, the collaborative process with actors, and the sustainable growth of Georgia's film industry. Petzke shares her journey from aspiring actor to accomplished TV director, highlighting her experiences on shows like 'Walker', 'Gotham Knights', 'Legacies', and 'Sweet Magnolias'. The discussion also covers the importance of storytelling, technical preparation, navigating the industry as a new director, and the significance of building relationships within the film community. Ebony Blanding discusses her role as the first filmmaker for the Emerging Creative Residency at Trilith Institute, and the process of preparing for her debut feature film she is making while in residency. The episode emphasizes the joy and creative fulfillment found in directing, along with practical advice for aspiring filmmakers. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Opening Remarks and Introductions 00:41 - Life on Set and Directing Insights 02:03 - Lauren Petzke's Journey into Directing 06:52 - Navigating the Industry and Embracing Opportunities 10:07 - The Value of Crew Experience and Directing Challenges 15:40 - Exploring the ECR Program and Filmmaking Timelines 16:32 - The Indie Filmmaking Perspective and Career Flexibility 18:21 - Building a Supportive Director Community 19:33 - Navigating the Industry: From First Jobs to Future Aspirations 28:09 - The Atlanta Film Scene and Fostering Local Talent 30:19 - The Cultural Impact of Georgia on Creativity 31:00 - Family Ties and Career Moves 31:23 - The Atlanta Shift: Opportunities and Family Dynamics 32:13 - Balancing Work and Family Life in the Film Industry 35:36 - The Art of Episode Preparation 46:26 - Creative Process and Prepping for a Feature Film 50:02 - The Joy of Short Film Making 54:02 - Filmmaking: A Space for Fun and Exploration 01:00:17 - Closing Thoughts on Filmmaking and Creativity About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/31079643

Episode 1x03 - Stewart Ussery | Navigating Film Transportation & Work-Life Balance 04/25/2024

Episode 1x03 - Stewart Ussery | Navigating Film Transportation & Work-Life Balance Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft engages with Stewart Ussery, a third-generation Teamster in film industry transportation, alongside film students Laura and Baker. They discuss the integral role of respect & teamwork in the film industry, emphasizing the crucial partnership between Production and the Transportation Department for smooth operations. Stewart shares insights from his 11-years of experience and family legacy in film transportation, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a sustainable work-life balance in the demanding film industry. The talk also ventures into the specifics of a transportation coordinator and captain's duties within film productions, navigating logistics, equipment, and personnel coordination. Personal anecdotes underline the sacrifices made for career advancements and the importance of strategically managing work commitments to preserve family time. The discussion also addresses the evolution of Georgia's film industry and the nurturing work culture fostering growth and camaraderie among crews. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Trilith Institute Talks 00:12 - Meet the Panel: Insights from Film Industry Veterans 01:40 - The Importance of Respect in the Film Industry 03:16 - A Deep Dive into Film Transportation and Logistics 08:18 - The Realities of Work-Life Balance in the Film Industry 08:43 - Navigating Career and Family: Personal Stories from A Life Behind The Scenes 12:54 - Strategies for Achieving Work-Life Balance 19:34 - From Big Sets to Small: Adapting and Learning 22:33 - Navigating Production Needs: The Role of Transportation in Film 23:02 - The Complex Dance of Production Logistics 24:22 - Balancing Act: Production Demands vs. Transportation Realities 25:17 - Strategies for Effective Communication and Problem Solving 28:28 - The Path to Becoming a Teamster: Insights and Advice 30:21 - Building Strong Relationships and Team Dynamics 35:51 - Leadership and Culture Within the Transportation Department 43:07 - A Day in the Life of a Film Production Driver 45:45 - Reflections on the Evolution of the Film Industry in Atlanta About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/30972808

Episode 1x02 - Kimberly Wistedt 04/18/2024

Episode 1x02 - Kimberly Wistedt Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft delves into the intricacies of casting for film and television with renowned Casting Director, Kimberly Wistedt... Having worked on major projects like The Righteous Gemstones, Outer Banks, The Menu, and Jurassic World, Kimberly shares her journey from starting as a stage manager to becoming a celebrated casting director in Atlanta. The discussion also features film students Sam and Chelsea, who share their experiences and aspirations in the industry. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of availability for roles, the transition from traditional to digital casting methods, leveraging self-tapes for auditions, the value of building relationships within the industry, and adapting to the evolving landscape of casting in the Southeast. Insights into the business aspect of casting, dealing with young actors, and practical advice for upcoming filmmakers on managing auditions and casting processes are also explored, along with personal anecdotes and industry experiences that highlight the challenges and rewards of casting in today's film and television landscape. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - The Unspoken Rule of Casting 00:10 - Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks: A Deep Dive into Casting 00:46 - Meet Kimberly Wistedt: A Casting Director's Journey 02:55 - Introducing Film Students Sam and Chelsea 04:23 - The Evolution of Casting in Atlanta 06:02 - The Impact of Location on Actors' Careers 08:32 - Exploring the World of Student Films and Casting 10:26 - The Future of Casting: Trends and Changes 14:44 - Navigating the Challenges of Casting Young Actors 18:20 - The Art and Science of Casting: A Comprehensive Overview 25:32 - Bridging Generational Gaps in the Film Industry 28:36 - Redefining Film Set Culture: A Director's Vision 29:00 - The Pandemic's Impact on Young Filmmakers 29:09 - Navigating Stress and Expectations in Film Production 29:50 - Breaking into the Film Industry: Insights and Opportunities 30:09 - Understanding Personal Limits in Creative Environments 30:42 - Challenges and Realities of Casting in the Film Industry 32:46 - Mastering the Audition Process: From Confusion to Clarity 33:43 - Embracing Self-Tapes: A Casting Director's Perspective 37:28 - Addressing the Challenges of Self-Tape Auditions 40:30 - Negotiating Actor Expectations and Self-Tape Standards 42:33 - Accommodating Diverse Needs in Film Production 44:59 - Celebrating Successes and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Casting 49:15 - Envisioning a New Era for Filmmaking in Atlanta 51:57 - Closing Thoughts and Future Directions About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/30877183

Episode 1x01 - Neal Holman 04/15/2024

Episode 1x01 - Neal Holman Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft delves into the animation industry with Neal Holman, noted for his work on Archer and Hit-Monkey. They explore Neal's journey from an intern to a prominent figure in the animation industry, the ins-and-outs of producing animated shows, and the future of animation in Georgia... Joined by animation students Sydney-Gene and Amelia, the discussion spans from film school experiences, to career advice for aspiring animators... Highlights of the episode include the transformation of work culture with remote opportunities, key skills for entering the animation industry, and the importance of storyboarding and compositing... The conversation also touches on the significance of staying adaptable, networking, and being kind within the animation community. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - The Spark of a Career in Animation 00:09 - Welcome to Truelth Institute Talks: Diving into Animation 01:05 - Neal Holman: A Multifaceted Career in Animation 02:21 - From Intern to Industry Insider: Neal's Journey 08:12 - Breaking into Animation: Insights and Aspirations 19:05 - The Art of Managing Creative Projects and Teams 24:24 - Navigating Burnout and Creativity in the Animation Industry 28:42 - The Intricacies of Animation Production 29:52 - Breaking into the Film Industry: Tips and Workshops 30:12 - Composing the Soundtrack: From Temp Tracks to Final Scores 31:13 - Navigating Animation Challenges: From Storyboards to Final Edits 32:35 - Diving into Hit-Monkey: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Season 2 36:01 - The Role of an Executive Producer: A Day in the Life 45:25 - Exploring Animation Careers: Advice for Aspiring Artists 52:56 - The Future of Animation in Georgia and Remote Work Insights 58:26 - Networking and Career Development in Animation About Trilith Institute Follow Us On Social Media! /episode/index/show/f5296c64-4cb3-4eee-9b7a-0c484e4105ff/id/30803813

Trilith Institute Talks: Season 1 Trailer 03/28/2024

Trilith Institute Talks

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