1st on Film

1st On Film
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We love movies! The 1st Reviews team is dedicated to the casual moviegoers and film enthusiasts alike, with our mix of candid and fun approach to analyzing movies and all things happening in the film industry. We are focused on providing film reviews, movie news, interviews, and coverage of many film related events to an international movie loving audience.

  1. Oscar Winning Short | The Girl Who Cried Pearls | Interview with Christopher Lavis

    16 HR AGO

    Oscar Winning Short | The Girl Who Cried Pearls | Interview with Christopher Lavis

    In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with Oscar-nominated filmmaker Chris Lavis to discuss his haunting stop-motion short The Girl Who Cried Pearls. Created alongside longtime collaborator Maciek Szczerbowski, the film tells a dark fairytale set in early-20th-century Montreal about a poor boy who discovers a mysterious girl whose tears transform into priceless pearls. As greed, love, and morality collide, the story becomes a powerful fable about the cost of ambition and the value of empathy. We talk with Lavis about the painstaking craft of stop-motion animation, the years-long journey to bring the film to life, and the inspiration behind its gothic visual style. He also reflects on the film’s festival run — including winning Best Canadian Short Film at the Toronto International Film Festival — and what it means to earn an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Short Film. Chris Lavis is a Canadian filmmaker and animator known for his distinctive stop-motion storytelling and richly atmospheric visual style. Based in Montreal, Lavis frequently collaborates with animator and director Maciek Szczerbowski, forming one of Canada’s most celebrated animation duos. Their breakthrough film, Madame Tutli-Putli, earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Short Film and helped establish their reputation for blending surreal imagery with emotionally resonant storytelling. Lavis later co-directed the stop-motion short The Girl Who Cried Pearls, produced by the National Film Board of Canada. The 17-minute film premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, won multiple festival awards, and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Short Film. Across his work, Lavis is known for meticulous handcrafted animation, haunting visual worlds, and stories that explore human emotion, morality, and myth through the language of animation.

    22 min
  2. SXSW Interview | “Them That’s Not” with Director, Mekhai Lee

    16 HR AGO

    SXSW Interview | “Them That’s Not” with Director, Mekhai Lee

    In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with filmmaker Mekhai Lee to discuss his powerful short film Them That’s Not, which screened at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival. Lee shares the inspiration behind the film, the personal experiences that shaped the story, and the challenges of telling an intimate narrative about grief, identity, and family connection. We also dive into the craft behind the film — from its emotional performances and use of sound to its exploration of deaf and queer identity within family dynamics. Join us as we talk about the creative journey of bringing Them That’s Not to life and what it means to tell deeply human stories through short-form cinema. Short Film Description Them That’s Not is an intimate short drama following Drea, a struggling deaf poet who returns home after the death of her grandmother. Surrounded by a family that struggles to understand her world, she feels isolated during a gathering meant to bring everyone together. When her estranged father—temporarily released from prison to attend the funeral—arrives unexpectedly, the two are forced to confront years of distance, grief, and unresolved emotions. Through quiet moments and raw performances, the film explores themes of family, identity, reconciliation, and the search for connection. Director Bio Mekhai Lee is a filmmaker, writer, and director from Charlotte, North Carolina. A graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts’ drama program, he began his career as an actor, performing in professional productions including the Broadway revival of The Color Purple.  Lee is the writer and director of the award-winning short film Them That’s Not, which premiered at NewFest Pride and went on to screen at festivals including the Chicago International Film Festival, where it won the Golden Hugo Award for Best Live Action Short.  He is also a member of The Half Initiative Director Program and served as a Director Fellow on HBO’s series Succession. Lee’s work focuses on character-driven storytelling that explores identity, grief, and human connection. 

    24 min
  3. Frieren: Beyond Journeys End Interview | Mallorie Rodak, Jill Harris & Jordan Dash Cruz

    2 DAYS AGO

    Frieren: Beyond Journeys End Interview | Mallorie Rodak, Jill Harris & Jordan Dash Cruz

    In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with the English voice cast behind the critically acclaimed anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Joining us are Mallorie Rodak (Frieren), Jill Harris (Fern), and Jordan Dash Cruz (Stark). The trio discusses bringing the beloved characters to life in the English dub, the emotional depth of the series, and why Frieren’s story has resonated with audiences around the world. We dive into the themes of time, memory, and friendship that make the series unique, along with behind-the-scenes insights into the voice acting process, recording sessions, and what it’s like joining one of the most celebrated modern fantasy anime. Whether you’re a longtime anime fan or discovering Frieren for the first time, this conversation offers a closer look at the voices behind the journey. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a fantasy anime based on the manga by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe. The story begins after the legendary hero party defeats the Demon King and restores peace to the world. While the humans move on with their lives, the elven mage Frieren—who lives far longer than her companions—begins to confront the fleeting nature of human life. After the death of one of her closest friends, Frieren embarks on a new journey, taking on an apprentice and traveling across the land in search of understanding, meaning, and connection. Blending fantasy adventure with reflective storytelling, the series explores themes of memory, friendship, and what it means to truly value the time we have with others. Mallorie Rodak – Voice of Frieren Mallorie Rodak is an American voice actor known for her work in anime, video games, commercials, and film. She voices the titular elven mage Frieren in the English dub of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Rodak has appeared in numerous animated series and games, and her performance as Frieren earned recognition from anime audiences worldwide. She holds a master’s degree from the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University and has worked extensively across voiceover, television, and advertising. Jill Harris – Voice of Fern Jill Harris is an American voice actress who has been active in anime dubbing since 2015. She voices Fern, Frieren’s disciplined and talented apprentice. Harris is widely known for roles such as Noelle Silva in Black Clover, Nino Nakano in The Quintessential Quintuplets, and Suletta Mercury in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury. Her performances have made her one of the most recognizable voices in modern English-language anime dubbing.  Jordan Dash Cruz – Voice of Stark Jordan Dash Cruz is a voice actor known for his work in English-language anime dubs. In Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, he plays Stark, a warrior who joins Frieren and Fern on their journey. Stark brings both humor and heart to the series as he grows into a brave fighter while navigating the emotional weight of the story’s world and characters.

    9 min
  4. SXSW Interview for Souvenir with Renée Marie Petropoulos & Emily Grant

    3 DAYS AGO

    SXSW Interview for Souvenir with Renée Marie Petropoulos & Emily Grant

    In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with director Renée Marie Petropoulos and actor Emily Grant to discuss their haunting new short film Souvenir, which premieres at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival. Set during the summer of 2008, the film follows Keira, a closeted teenage girl vacationing at a tropical resort with her family and her girlfriend Zoe. As the two try to keep their relationship hidden, they steal moments of privacy together. But when Keira discovers that Zoe has secretly taken photos of her during an intimate encounter, the moment sparks confusion and unease. What begins as a quiet summer romance evolves into a tense exploration of power, vulnerability, and the complicated emotional dynamics that can emerge within young relationships. Through restrained storytelling and emotionally layered performances, Souvenir examines desire, secrecy, and the painful process of recognizing unhealthy dynamics.  Renée Marie Petropoulos Renée Marie Petropoulos is an award-winning filmmaker from Sydney, Australia whose work often explores complex emotional relationships and female-driven stories. She earned her MFA in directing from Columbia University, where her thesis short Tangles and Knots premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival’s Generation 14Plus program and went on to screen at festivals including SXSW and Palm Springs International ShortFest. Her films have received international acclaim and multiple awards, including recognition at the Denver Film Festival and Flickerfest. Petropoulos’ storytelling frequently examines themes of identity, intimacy, and power within personal relationships. Emily Grant Emily Grant is an actor known for her work in independent film and emerging festival projects. In Souvenir, she plays Zoe, a character whose relationship with her girlfriend becomes increasingly complicated as hidden tensions and power dynamics begin to surface. Grant’s performance brings subtle intensity and ambiguity to the role, helping shape the film’s uneasy emotional tone. Her work in Souvenir highlights her ability to navigate layered characters and intimate storytelling within independent cinema.

    17 min
  5. SXSW Interview for Anima with Brian Tetsuro Ivie and Takehiro Hira

    4 DAYS AGO

    SXSW Interview for Anima with Brian Tetsuro Ivie and Takehiro Hira

    In this special SXSW episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with filmmaker Brian Tetsuro Ivie and actor Takehiro Hira to discuss their new science-fiction road film Anima, which made its world premiere at the SXSW Film & TV Festival. The film follows an unlikely pair on a cross-country journey toward a controversial technology that can preserve human consciousness. In our conversation, Ivie talks about making the leap from acclaimed documentaries to narrative filmmaking, crafting a story that blends sci-fi with emotional drama, and exploring the philosophical question at the heart of the film: if we could upload our minds, should we? Hira also shares insight into building his character, the film’s themes of memory and mortality, and what drew him to this deeply human genre story. Anima stars Sydney Chandler and Hira alongside Lili Taylor, Marin Ireland, Maria Dizzia, and Tom McCarthy.  Brian Tetsuro Ivie is a Japanese-American filmmaker and producer known for his work across documentary and narrative cinema. A graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, Ivie first gained recognition for directing the documentary The Drop Box (2015) and the investigative documentary Emanuel (2019).  In addition to directing, Ivie has produced and executive-produced a number of independent films, including Wildcat, which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival.  Anima marks Ivie’s narrative feature debut as a writer-director, bringing his documentary background into a genre-blending story that examines identity, memory, and the future of human consciousness. Takehiro Hira is an internationally recognized Japanese actor known for his work in film and television across both Japan and Hollywood. He gained global recognition for his role in the historical drama series Shōgun and has appeared in major productions including Gran Turismo and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. In Anima, Hira plays Paul, a solitary man embarking on a final journey to preserve his consciousness through experimental technology. His performance anchors the film’s emotional core, bringing depth to a story that grapples with aging, legacy, and what it means to live on through memory.

    13 min
  6. Jujitsu Kaisen Interview with Adam McArthur & Kayleigh McKee

    4 DAYS AGO

    Jujitsu Kaisen Interview with Adam McArthur & Kayleigh McKee

    In this episode, we sit down with voice actors Adam McArthur and Kayleigh McKee from the hit anime Jujutsu Kaisen. They discuss bringing their characters to life, what it’s like working on one of the most popular anime series in the world, and the challenges and excitement of voice acting in high-intensity scenes. If you’re a fan of anime, voice acting, or the supernatural world of curses and sorcerers, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Adam McArthur Adam McArthur is an American voice actor best known for his work in anime and animation. He is widely recognized as the English voice of Yuji Itadori in Jujutsu Kaisen, the energetic and determined protagonist of the series. McArthur has also appeared in numerous animated projects and video games, earning a reputation for his dynamic performances and engaging fan interactions within the anime community. Kayleigh McKee Kayleigh McKee is a voice actor known for her performances in anime, video games, and animation. In Jujutsu Kaisen, she voices the powerful and confident sorcerer Yuki Tsukumo in the English dub. McKee has built a strong following thanks to her versatile voice work and her roles across several popular anime titles. Jujutsu Kaisen is a dark fantasy anime based on the manga by Gege Akutami. The story follows high school student Yuji Itadori, who becomes involved in the secret world of Jujutsu Sorcerers after encountering a powerful cursed object. After swallowing the finger of the legendary curse Ryomen Sukuna, Yuji gains supernatural abilities but becomes the host for one of the most dangerous curses in existence. The series blends intense action, supernatural horror, and emotional character storytelling as sorcerers battle deadly curses threatening humanity. In the latest season of Jujutsu Kaisen, the stakes rise as the world of jujutsu sorcerers becomes even more dangerous. New enemies emerge, powerful alliances are tested, and hidden truths about the sorcerer society begin to surface. As Yuji and his allies face increasingly powerful curses, they must push their abilities further than ever before. The season expands the series’ darker themes while delivering high-energy battles, deeper character development, and shocking twists that reshape the future of the jujutsu world.

    9 min
  7. This Too Shall Pass Interview with Jeremy Ray Taylor

    5 DAYS AGO

    This Too Shall Pass Interview with Jeremy Ray Taylor

    On this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with rising actor Jeremy Ray Taylor to talk about his role in the coming-of-age film This Too Shall Pass. Jeremy discusses what drew him to the project, the themes of friendship and self-discovery at the heart of the story, and what it was like bringing his character to life alongside a talented ensemble cast. The conversation also explores Jeremy’s journey from breakout roles in major studio films to working on character-driven independent projects, and how This Too Shall Pass captures the complicated, exciting moments of growing up and finding your identity. It’s a candid look at the film, the craft of acting, and the experiences that shape both the characters on screen and the actors behind them. About Jeremy Ray Taylor Jeremy Ray Taylor is an American actor best known for playing Ben Hanscom in the blockbuster horror film It and its sequel It Chapter Two. Born in Bluff City, Tennessee, Taylor began acting at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his natural screen presence and heartfelt performances. His credits also include Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween and the comedy Senior Year. In This Too Shall Pass, Taylor continues to expand his range with a role in a thoughtful coming-of-age story about friendship, rebellion, and growing up. About the Film This Too Shall Pass, directed by Rob Grant, is a coming-of-age drama that follows a sheltered 16-year-old who rebels against his strict upbringing by taking a spontaneous trip to Canada with his friends. What begins as a weekend of freedom quickly becomes a journey of self-discovery as the group navigates friendship, independence, and the uncertainty of growing up. The film blends humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments to capture the messy but meaningful transition into adulthood. 

    23 min
  8. The Liars Interview with Director, Eduardo Braun Costa

    8 MAR

    The Liars Interview with Director, Eduardo Braun Costa

    In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with director Eduardo Braun Costa to discuss his short film The Liars, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The Argentine short follows two boys, Matías and Jaime, who suddenly find themselves navigating the confusing responsibilities of adulthood. When Jaime is detained by a mall security guard, Matías must quickly improvise and convince a stranger to pretend to be their father in order to get him released. What unfolds is a tense, quietly humorous moment that explores friendship, adolescence, and the fragile line between childhood and adulthood. Running 19 minutes and performed in Spanish, The Liars stars Noah Roja and Filippo Carrozza alongside Esteban Bigliardi, Mariana Chaud, and Pablo Fusco. The film’s performances were widely praised, earning Roja and Carrozza the Short Film Special Jury Award for Acting at Sundance for their naturalistic portrayals that blur the line between fiction and reality. During our conversation, Braun Costa discusses the inspiration behind the story, working with young actors, and crafting an intimate coming-of-age moment within the short film format. We also talk about the experience of premiering the film at Sundance and what this recognition means for the film’s journey on the festival circuit.

    22 min
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About

We love movies! The 1st Reviews team is dedicated to the casual moviegoers and film enthusiasts alike, with our mix of candid and fun approach to analyzing movies and all things happening in the film industry. We are focused on providing film reviews, movie news, interviews, and coverage of many film related events to an international movie loving audience.

Information

  • Creator
    1st On Film
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    105
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 1st On Film
  • Show Website
    1st on Film

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