What does it really take to make an indie film?In this powerful filmmaker interview, Brad Staggs talks with writer and director Joe Atkinson about screenwriting, directing, indie filmmaking, and the behind-the-scenes process of creating his film “Wet Bulb Temperature.”Joe Atkinson reveals his real-world approach to writing for film, developing characters, directing actors, and navigating the challenges of independent filmmaking. From script development and workshops to film festivals, micro-budget production, and documentary storytelling, this conversation is packed with practical advice for filmmakers, screenwriters, and creatives.If you’re an indie filmmaker, aspiring director, screenwriter, film student, or storyteller, this episode dives deep into the filmmaking process, including:✅ Writing for film vs stage✅ Screenwriting techniques and character development✅ Directing your own film✅ Working with actors and improvisation✅ Indie film production and micro-budget filmmaking✅ Continuous takes and cinematic storytelling✅ Documentary filmmaking and sensitive storytelling✅ Pre-production, editing, and workflow✅ Film festivals and indie film strategy✅ Advice for aspiring filmmakers and writersJoe also discusses the emotional and technical challenges of directing, the importance of collaboration in filmmaking, and how real-life experiences shape authentic storytelling in cinema.Whether you’re learning filmmaking, writing your first screenplay, preparing for film festivals, or trying to break into independent film, this conversation offers real insight into the creative process behind modern cinema. https://www.facebook.com/joe.atkinson.777 https://www.instagram.com/joewatkinson/ https://www.instagram.com/wetbulbmovie/ https://youtu.be/wZC0cM9wDrs?si=zvwCgkohEWOrqWP1 MUST-WATCH FOR:indie filmmakers, filmmakers, directors, screenwriters, film students, documentary filmmakers, content creators, storytellers, and anyone passionate about film production and cinema.indie filmmaking, filmmakers, independent film, screenwriting, writing for film, film festivals, directing, director interview, filmmaking process, micro budget film, documentary filmmaking, film production, storytelling, character development, aspiring filmmakers, film director, indie film tips, how to make a film, continuous take, scriptwriting, film school, cinema, creative process, film interview, behind the scenes filmmaking, acting and directing, indie movie, filmmaking advice, video production, movie making, narrative filmmaking, film industry, low budget filmmaking, short film, feature film, festival film00:00 Welcome Back & Show Intro04:08 Meet Joe – Interview Begins04:12 Introduction and Background06:30 The Making of Wet Bulb Temperature10:55 Writing Process and Workshops14:10 Feedback and Collaboration16:50 Character Development & Writing Female Characters22:10 Stage vs. Film Writing27:50 Directing Your Own Work29:20 Upcoming Projects and Future Endeavors36:30 The Challenge of Continuous Takes38:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt as a Director40:30 The Importance of Food & Coffee on Set41:00 Navigating Actor Improvisation45:10 Documentary Filmmaking: Sensitivity vs. Storytelling49:40 Research & Interview Techniques54:17 Closing Thoughts & Final Advice
