The MAKE IT Podcast Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs

Hello, Hello!
 
In this episode, we have a conversation with Cinematographer Micah Simms. Chris interviews Micah about his career journey and experiences working in commercials and films. They discuss Micah's passion for the craft of Cinematography and his collaborative work with Directors like Motke Dapp.
 
We also talk about:

- Techniques for lighting and shooting scenes effectively 
- Challenges of the film industry and finding work-life balance
- Maintaining integrity through difficult content decisions 
- Advice for aspiring cinematographers starting out
 
Enjoy!
 
Indie Artist Spotlight
 
Morning Silk is a New York-based alternative indie rock/pop recording project led by Frank Corr. Signature drums, synth sounds, and a wall of screaming guitars can be recognized as Morning Silk's production style. So Fun is a made-up story written in Italy about a time-traveling being from the 1700s who follows someone he found outside in his estate's garden into a portal and is transported into a dance club in the future.
    
Artist: Morning Silk
 
Track: So Fun (Remix)
 
https://www.instagram.com/morning_silk/
 
https://www.tiktok.com/@morningsilk
 
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Hello, Hello!
 
In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmakers Dexter Strong Buell and Derek Mindler about their experiences in the indie film space, including Dexter's recent short film "The South Shore" and Derek's work as a cinematographer. They also discuss challenges in filmmaking and education, using new technology like 360 videos for location scouting, and an upcoming film school in New York City focused on below-the-line skills.
 
We also talk about:

- The differences between working on indie film sets versus studio sets
- Finding success through creative solutions in the indie film world
- Bridging the gap between film education and the current film industry
- A student-made feature film that was widely distributed on Amazon Prime after starting as a high school short
- The cultural impact of low-budget films that are financially successful but not necessarily well-received critically
 
Enjoy!
 
Indie Artist Spotlight
 
Artist: Steve Lewis 
 
Track: Get You
 
Recording artist Steve Lewis is a writer and performer who can take a listener to a special place, one where the music transports you and time slips away. While straddling the line between riff rock and melodic lyricism, his material evokes stylists like Kurt Vile and Mac DeMarco while luxuriating in steady grooves and high energy. “Get You” is a high-energy rock tune with a celebratory and conversational lyric about the excitement and optimism of finding a new love.
 
https://www.stevelewismusic.com/
 
https://www.instagram.com/stevelewismusic/
 
https://www.tiktok.com/@stevelewismusic
 
 
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Hello, Hello!
 
In this episode, Chris has a conversation with Jason Padgitt, Executive Director of the Nashville Film Festival. They discuss Jason's role and responsibilities at NaFF, the film selection process, balancing industry and artistic interests, and the future of AI in filmmaking. Enjoy this insightful conversation about the inner workings of a major independent film festival.
 
We also talk about:

- Importance of music and music-based films to NaFF
- Balancing industry influence with artistic integrity in programming
- Role of technical quality versus storytelling in film selections
- Managing filmmaker expectations for a music-focused regional festival
- Trends in annual programming "points of view"
- Role of opening credits in assessing a film
- Potential for new "Best AI Film" categories in the future
 
Enjoy!
 
 
Indie Artist Spotlight
 
 
Artist: The Familiar
 
Track: Starry Eyes
 
Above the Arctic Circle during Norway’s season of darkness, a chance encounter between an American and a Norwegian spawned a transatlantic musical partnership called The Familiar. The duo of native New Yorker Ruth Mirsky and Tromsø-born producer Mads Martinsen is the northern lights meeting the skyscrapers of New York. "Starry Eyes" tells the story of a woman that knows the odds are stacked against her, but remains optimistic that if she follows her best instincts, satisfaction will arrive. A pebble starts a landslide right?
 
https://www.instagram.com/thefamiliarmusic/
 
https://www.tiktok.com/@thefamiliarmusic

Hello, Hello!
 
In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Angus Benfield about his career as an Actor, Producer, Writer and Director and his upcoming film "The Keeper" which tackles the important issue of veteran suicide. They discuss Angus' process for bringing real stories to the screen, finding financing for independent films, and keeping creative energy as a filmmaker. Chris and Nick also have a thoughtful conversation with Angus about the role of artificial intelligence in the film industry and whether it could replace human storytelling.
 
We also talk about:
 
Angus' experience living in New Zealand for 9 years and dealing with earthquakes Sharing stories about transforming physiques and perceptions from high school  Comparing strategies for raising film funds like crowdfunding vs finding investors   Debating the importance of spelling and handwriting in the digital age Pitching ideas like a standalone movie theater candy store  
Enjoy!
 
 
Indie Artist Spotlight - Mom Rock
 
Featured Track: Bullseye
 
Originally formed at Berklee, this Nashville-based Power-pop trio is tearing up the indie scene with a sound that evokes iconic 90’s rock bands like Weezer and Cake. Since their 2017 debut, they’ve racked up millions of streams, rocked packed houses, and cut catchy anthems that landed them a feature in Rolling Stone Magazine. The song is about everyone having a soft underbelly – insecurities, anxieties, shortcomings. Being an artist and putting art into the world is one of the most vulnerable undertakings there is, and we wanted to examine that vulnerability in a fun, campy way.
 
https://www.instagram.com/momrockofficial/
 
https://www.tiktok.com/@momrocktiktok
 
https://twitter.com/MomRockOfficial

Hello, Hello!
 
In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Daril Fannin and Austin Worrell from Kino Studios. They discuss challenges in the film industry and opportunities for new models to empower creators through technology. Daril and Austin share their experiences and explain their mission to build efficient tools through Kino Studios to help filmmakers launch globally and connect with audiences.
 
We also talk about:
 
- The meaning of "making it" in the film industry and how technology can empower creators
- Challenges in the current entertainment system, including unfair contracts and lack of transparency 
- The mission and features of Kino Studios' digital premiere app to help filmmakers launch globally
- Inefficiencies in film marketing and distribution that new models could improve
- The potential for education and training programs to develop emerging storytellers
 
Enjoy!
 
Indie Artist Spotlight
 
niko! 
 
niko! Is the moniker of Colombian-American musician and songwriter Nick Maxwell, a gifted young bedroom producer cooking up some really cool Alternative R&B.
He has garnered over 400,000 streams and was featured on Apple Music’s Editorial Playlist, “Brown Sugar."
Taking inspiration from Childish Gambino’s “Redbone", niko! taps into a sultry and raw side of R&B that’s filled with lo-fi synths and off-beat drums, which help deliver an experimental indie aesthetic. As the second single off of his upcoming project, ‘Love Fi’, this track specifically deals with themes of desire, doubt, and the way a person makes another feel.
 
niko! on social media 
 
https://www.instagram.com/niko.wav/
https://www.facebook.com/niko.artist.music

Hello, Hello!
 
In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Actor, Writer, and Producer Jordan Charles about his film project "Brothers in Arms," which explores themes of family, redemption, and the impact of war through two brothers separated at a young age. Jordan shares how his own family history influenced the film and informed his perspective as an artist.
 
Chris and Nick provide insights into navigating the creative and business sides of independent filmmaking, as well as using art as a platform for activism.
 
 
We also talk about:
 
- Podcasting, filmmaking, and communication
- Creativity, hobbies, and sharing interests
- Activism, art, and environmentalism
- Filmmaking and the importance of understanding both creative and business sides
- Independent vs. studio films' emotional impact
 
Enjoy!
 
Indie Artist Spotlight
 
 
Helen Kebede
 
Helen is an independent Pop and R&B artist from the DMV, like my co-host Nick and Producer Joe. She has been writing songs for over a decade and gained notable recognition when her track "Bitter Bitch" was featured in the Netflix movie 'Do Revenge.' A broad spectrum of artists, from Michael Jackson to Britney Spears and ABBA, influenced Helen's music.
 
Helen aims to provide an escape for listeners, crafting songs that resonate with their emotions and experiences. She's deeply involved in the creative process of songwriting and producing and making music videos, showcasing her multifaceted talent. Helen's journey reflects a passionate commitment to her artistry, combining nostalgic elements with a contemporary twist to create a unique sound that stands out in today's music scene. 
 
Follow Her Socials: 
 
https://helenmusic.info/
https://www.instagram.com/helenkebede/
https://www.tiktok.com/@helenmusiicc
 
 
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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.