The MAKE IT Podcast

Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
  • 5.0 (101)
  • FILM INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

MAKE IT is the film podcast that provides a behind the scenes look at the filmmaking process. We delve into indie films, blockbusters, cinema, and film history while making new friends along the way. We even offer movie reviews and movie commentary based on our own film analysis covering studio movies as well as indie films. We enjoy being a voice for the filmmaking community so we hope you'll give us a listen. Be Better. Be Creative. Be Engaged.

  1. 431 - Amy Hill - How to Survive Toxic Film Sets, Staying Employed in Hollywood for Decades, and the Value of Saying Yes

    4D AGO

    431 - Amy Hill - How to Survive Toxic Film Sets, Staying Employed in Hollywood for Decades, and the Value of Saying Yes

    This episode is brought to you by Factor. No prep, no cooking. Just dietitian-approved, chef-prepared meals delivered to your door and ready to eat in 2 minutes. Go to https://factormeals.com/makeit50off and use the code MAKEIT50OFF to get 50% off your first Factor box PLUS free breakfast for 1 year. This episode is brought to you by Anthropic. Claude is the AI for minds that don’t stop at good enough—it's the collaborator that actually understands your entire workflow and thinks WITH you, not for you. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off Claude Pro when you use our link – www.claude.ai/makeit Hello, Hello!  In this episode, veteran character actress Amy Hill shares her incredible journey from growing up in a Finnish-Japanese household in Deadwood, South Dakota, to building a prolific career spanning over 230 television and film credits. Hill discusses her breakthrough roles, including the beloved grandmother in "All American Girl" and her current work on Amazon Prime's "Ballard," while emphasizing the power of saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities throughout her decades-long career. The conversation reveals how her multicultural background and improv training shaped her approach to acting, from voice work to memorable roles in shows like "Just Add Magic" and films such as "50 First Dates." We also talk about: • The challenges of being an Asian American actor in Hollywood and finding representation on screen • Her experiences on toxic film and TV sets, including working with difficult personalities • The importance of professionalism, preparation, and building genuine relationships in the industry • Voice acting career development and the transition from San Francisco theater to Hollywood • Current projects include "Ballard" Season 2 and the upcoming film "Flowers para los Muertos." People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned: Deadwood, South Dakota Seattle, Washington San Francisco, California Tokyo, Japan Nashville, Tennessee Gaithersburg, Maryland Honolulu, Hawaii Merida, Yucatan, Mexico Carnegie Mellon University Asian American Theater Company (San Francisco) Philippine Airlines The Gong Show All American Girl (TV show) Just Add Magic (TV show) Ballard (Amazon Prime series) Bosch (TV series) I Love Lucy Golden Girls Nancy Kwan Betty White Marie Osmond Craig Ferguson Mike Myers Maggie Q Yolonda Ross Margaret Cho Téa Leoni Mark Roberts Holland Taylor The Naked Truth (TV show) Cat in the Hat (film) 50 First Dates (film) Lilo and Stitch (animated film) King of the Hill (animated series) Everything Everywhere All at Once (film) The Brutalist (film) Anora (film) Sinners (film) Birdman (film) Nomadland (film) Anna May Wong The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong (1951 TV series) DuMont Television Network Amy Hill Actor website Instagram: Amy Hill We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    1h 38m
  2. If I Had Legs I'd Kick You - Rose Byrne's Career-Defining Performance

    5D AGO

    If I Had Legs I'd Kick You - Rose Byrne's Career-Defining Performance

    WHAT IS FILM BRIEF? Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking. BRIEF: In this brief, host Nick explores Mary Bronstein's psychological drama "If I Had Legs, I'd Kick You," starring Rose Byrne in a raw portrayal of mental health struggles and emotional collapse. The film defies traditional narrative structures, instead offering an intimate look at a woman whose world slowly fractures under invisible pressures. Through Bronstein's unconventional storytelling approach, the movie forces viewers to confront discomfort and develop empathy for those experiencing quiet psychological crises. TAKEAWAYS: • Mary Bronstein's filmmaking approach and her previous work "Yeast" (2008) • Rose Byrne's dramatic departure from her typical comedic roles • The film's festival circuit premiere on October 10, 2025, and its critical reception • How the ambiguous title serves as a metaphor for helplessness and lost agency • The importance of cinema that prioritizes understanding over entertainment MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: If I Had Legs, I'd Kick You (2025) Mary Bronstein Rose Byrne Yeast (2008) Bridesmaids Neighbors Star Wars Dead Poets Society "Mastering Film Marketing: A Filmmaker's Guide to Crafting Impactful Marketing Campaigns for Independent Films" We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    9 min
  3. SUMMARIES - Derek Estlin Purvis - How to Finance Your Film Without Begging for Cash (3-Pillar Method Revealed)

    MAR 3

    SUMMARIES - Derek Estlin Purvis - How to Finance Your Film Without Begging for Cash (3-Pillar Method Revealed)

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness unpack a masterclass interview with independent filmmaker Derek Estlin Purvis, exploring the hidden mechanics of film financing and the entrepreneurial strategies behind successful indie filmmaking. They dive deep into Derek's three-pillar funding framework using equity, debt, and soft money, while examining his "skyscraper approach" to pre-selling films before production begins. The discussion reveals how Derek's early experiences on the set of "On Golden Pond" and his chance encounter with a Paramount executive shaped his revolutionary approach to filmmaking as extreme problem-solving. We also talk about: • Derek's career journey from bartending in New Orleans to working with major studios • The "59-cent pencil" philosophy of finding simple solutions to complex filmmaking problems • Creative problem-solving examples from Star Trek and MTV music videos • The Sistine Chapel metric for measuring artistic success and cultural impact • The evolving media landscape and how data is becoming the true commodity in entertainment People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned: Derek Estlin Purvis (filmmaker, producer, writer, director) The Kids Are All Right The 10 Savage Lands - The Ballad of Davy Crockett On Golden Pond Henry Fonda Mike Basik (finance banker/mentor) Paramount Pictures Star Trek reboot (JJ Abrams) Michelangelo Sistine Chapel Raging Bull Forrest Gump Oculus New Orleans, LA New Hampshire MTV Golden Globe Awards We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    21 min
  4. Jefferson White - What Does It Mean to Make It?

    MAR 2

    Jefferson White - What Does It Mean to Make It?

    Learn more about Jefferson White here: Hello, Hello! Jefferson White discusses his evolving definition of success in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of having control over creative choices and working with people you care about. He reflects on how his goals have changed from wanting to get on a show like Yellowstone to now prioritizing creative fulfillment and collaborative energy on projects of any size. White shares his perspective that "making it" is an ongoing process rather than a destination, requiring continuous growth and openness to change. We also talk about:  • The feeling of helplessness that actors can experience in the entertainment industry • How definitions of success evolve throughout an actor's career • The value of independent filmmaking and creative collaboration • Behind-the-scenes photography as a way to document the creative process • The importance of supporting independent films financially, not just verbally Products, Software, Websites, People, or Places Mentioned:  Jefferson White (actor) Yellowstone (TV show) Drink and Be Merry (independent film) We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    7 min
  5. Jefferson White - Clear the Set - Wong Kar-Wai, Foreign Films, and Nashville Hot Chicken

    FEB 27

    Jefferson White - Clear the Set - Wong Kar-Wai, Foreign Films, and Nashville Hot Chicken

    Learn more about Jefferson White here: Hello, Hello! Jefferson White discusses his top three films, including The Matrix Reloaded, In the Mood for Love, and three recent foreign language films that impressed him. The conversation covers his commitment to film education, particularly international cinema, and his honest admission about pretending to have seen films he hasn't watched. White also shares insights about the challenges of being an actor, including industry pressures around diet and the difficulty of finding consistent work. We also talk about:  • Nashville hot chicken spots and the origin story of Prince's restaurant • Christmas movies and why Miracle on 34th Street doesn't work for him • His upcoming film, Caravan about medical tourism for insulin • The reality of spending most of an acting career waiting to work rather than actually working • How independent filmmaking requires learning multiple skills, from editing to financing Products, Software, Websites, People, or Places Mentioned:  The Matrix Reloaded In the Mood for Love It Was Just an Accident The Secret Agent No Other Choice I'm Still Here Miracle on 34th Street It's a Wonderful Life After the Hunt Wong Kar-Wai Julia Roberts Jim Carrey Sundance Film Festival Sarasota, Florida Bedford Park Toronto, Canada Hattie B's Prince's Hot Chicken Bishop's Restaurant (Franklin, TN) Drink and Be Merry Caravan Nashville Film Festival We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    22 min
  6. Jefferson White - Things We Should Know - Can You Name the Only Iowa-Born BAFTA, Oscar, Globe & Emmy Winner?

    FEB 26

    Jefferson White - Things We Should Know - Can You Name the Only Iowa-Born BAFTA, Oscar, Globe & Emmy Winner?

    Learn more about Jefferson White here: Hello, Hello! Jefferson joins Producer Papa Bear for our "Things We Should Know" segment. The discussion reveals surprising facts about Academy Award winners from Iowa, including the remarkable achievement of Cloris Leachman as the only Iowa-born actor to win a BAFTA, Oscar, Golden Globe, and Emmy. The conversation features guest Jefferson White and covers the rich acting heritage that has emerged from the Midwest state. We also talk about: • The challenge of identifying Iowa's most decorated actor among the limited Oscar winners from the state • Comparisons between notable Iowa actors, including John Wayne, Elijah Wood, and Ashton Kutcher • The impressive award collection of Cloris Leachman, with 24 wins and 53 nominations • Historical television programming conventions like separate beds in classic shows • An eerie coincidence involving the birth and death dates of Iowa actresses People, Places, and Things Mentioned: Jefferson White (guest) Cloris Leachman John Wayne Elijah Wood Ashton Kutcher Jason Momoa Donna Reed Justin Timberlake Iowa State Des Moines, Iowa Winterset, Iowa The Last Picture Show True Grit From Here to Eternity The Donna Reed Show That '70s Show Punk'd The Butterfly Effect Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency Lord of the Rings BAFTA Awards Academy Awards (Oscars) Golden Globe Awards Emmy Awards Chick-fil-A Polynesian sauce We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    10 min
  7. Jefferson White - Audience Polls - Jefferson White on Joaquin Phoenix, Sean Penn, and Transformative Acting

    FEB 25

    Jefferson White - Audience Polls - Jefferson White on Joaquin Phoenix, Sean Penn, and Transformative Acting

    Learn more about Jefferson White here: Hello, Hello! Jefferson White joins us to discuss the art of acting, exploring how empathy plays a crucial role in bringing both villains and heroes to life on screen. We delve into audience poll results about whether movie villains deserve empathy, with 94% of listeners saying yes, and examine what makes a great actor through the lens of trying new approaches versus sticking with proven methods. White shares insights about iconic performances like Heath Ledger's Joker and discusses how actors must balance technical proficiency with bold creative risks. We also talk about:  • The impact of legendary performances like Heath Ledger's Joker, James Dean, and Taxi Driver on future generations of actors • How three-dimensional villains become more compelling when audiences can see themselves in the character • The importance of learning technical skills before pushing creative boundaries • Sean Penn's transformative performance in "I'm a Battle After Another." • The balance between structure and spontaneity in artistic performance Products, Software, Websites, People, or Places Mentioned:  Heath Ledger's Joker (The Dark Knight) Todd Phillips' Joker Joaquin Phoenix James Dean East of Eden Taxi Driver Travis Bickle Sean Penn One Battle After Another Everything Everywhere All at Once Demi Moore The Substance Brady Corbet The Brutalist Chicago PD (TV Drama) We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    14 min
  8. Jefferson White - Filmmaker Q&A - What Secret Model Did Jefferson Steal from Hollywood Legends?

    FEB 25

    Jefferson White - Filmmaker Q&A - What Secret Model Did Jefferson Steal from Hollywood Legends?

    Learn more about Jefferson White here: Hello, Hello! Yellowstone star Jefferson White joins us for an in-depth Filmmaker Q&A about the creative process, independent filmmaking, and building a sustainable career in entertainment. White discusses his production company, Means of Productions, the philosophy behind choosing independent projects over big-budget work, and how constraints often lead to the most creative solutions. The conversation explores the balance between commercial television success and passion projects, emphasizing the importance of long-term collaborations and continuous learning through hands-on experience. We also talk about: • The creative freedom found in low-budget independent films versus high-stakes television productions • How photography serves as both a creative outlet and a practical tool for staying present on set • The Peter Falk/John Cassavetes model of using commercial success to finance personal artistic projects • Building a sustainable filmmaking community through long-term partnerships and collaborative learning • Upcoming projects include a Kennedy assassination film and a Rambo prequel People, Places, Products & Software Mentioned: Jefferson White (Yellowstone actor) Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone creator/writer) Peter Falk John Cassavetes (filmmaker) Adam Volerich (cinematographer) Terence Cray (sound engineer/editor/director) Jeff Rutherford (script writer) John Kirby (documentary filmmaker) Libby Handros (documentary filmmaker) Dick Gregory Geraldo Rivera Martin McDonagh (playwright - The Pillowman, Banshees of Inisherin) Don Watts (theater director) Means of Productions (Jefferson's production company) Iowa State University M Shop theater Caravan (short film) Drink and Be Merry Misprint November 1963 (Film in Production) John Rambo prequel Nikon FM 10 Pentax 6x7 Nikon F Yellowstone (TV series) Winnipeg, Manitoba Four Died Trying (documentary) We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    33 min
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5
out of 5
101 Ratings

About

MAKE IT is the film podcast that provides a behind the scenes look at the filmmaking process. We delve into indie films, blockbusters, cinema, and film history while making new friends along the way. We even offer movie reviews and movie commentary based on our own film analysis covering studio movies as well as indie films. We enjoy being a voice for the filmmaking community so we hope you'll give us a listen. Be Better. Be Creative. Be Engaged.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    502
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Bonsai Creative Enterprises, LLC 2026
  • Show Website
    The MAKE IT Podcast