The Film Dept.

UNLV Film
  • 5.0 (4)
  • FILM REVIEWS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

The Film Dept. is the movie review podcast of UNLV Film at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Each semester, join three student film connoisseurs as they respond to screenings of films at The Beverly Theater: Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

  1. 2D AGO

    If I Had Legs I'd Kick You

    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!  In this episode of the Film Department podcast our hosts discuss the intense film IF I HAD LEGS I'D KICK YOU, directed by Mary Bronstein. They explore the film's themes of motherhood, mental health, and the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the character of Linda, played by Rose Byrne. The conversation delves into the film's emotional impact, character dynamics, and the significance of its ending and title. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:01 Exploring IIHLIKY 09:16 Themes of Motherhood and Mental Health 16:15 Character Analysis of Linda and Her Relationships 22:54 The Significance of the Ending and Title 25:58 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  Credits: HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile KEY GRIP- William Stanfield EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:  https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story

    31 min

  2. 12/03/2025

    The Short Film Masterclass with Sundance Programmer Mike Plante

    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast! In this episode, our hosts met with Mike Plante, producer and senior programmer for Sundance Film Festival, discussing the journey of short films from creation to submission at festivals like Sundance. They explore the importance of choosing the right stories, common pitfalls in filmmaking, and the various avenues available for filmmakers to showcase their work.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:20 Mike Plante's Journey in Film 06:14 The Sundance Film Festival Experience 08:58 Submitting Short Films to Sundance 11:32 Common Mistakes in Short Film Submissions 14:25 Distribution Avenues for Short Films 17:12 Advice for New Filmmakers 19:55 Networking and Opportunities in Film Festivals Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  Credits: HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile KEY GRIP- William Stanfield EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:  https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story

    29 min

  3. 11/19/2025

    The Power of Diversity in Filmmaking w/ Hisonni Mustafa

    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast! In this class our hosts had the opportunity to speak with Emmy Winner, Tyler Perry Dreamers Fellow and UNLV Film student Hisonni Mustafa about the significance of diversity programs for emerging filmmakers. These include the Commercial Directors Diversity Program, the Tyler Perry Dreamers Collective, the Veterans Writers Project, Rideback Rise and more! Interested in any of these programs? Follow the links provided below: Commercial Directors Diversity Program: https://www.cddprogram.org/ Tyler Perry Dreamers Collective: https://tylerperrystudiosdreamcollective.com/ Veterans Writers Project: https://www.wgfoundation.org/programs/the-veterans-writing-project Rideback Rise: https://www.ridebackrise.org/ Key Figures mentioned: Paul Redford, Writer https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0714864/ Mary Lou Belli, Director https://www.amazon.com/Directors-Tell-Story-Bethany-Rooney/dp/1138948470 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Filmmaking Journey 01:04 Early Inspirations and Filmmaking Beginnings 09:20 The Evolution of Perspective in Filmmaking 17:36 Development Programs and their Impact 25:20 The Importance of Community and Mentorship 30:12 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  Credits: HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile KEY GRIP- William Stanfield EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:  https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

    32 min
  4. Collaboration and Adaptation on 'Margaret the Brave' with Filmmaker Danny Chandia

    11/11/2025

    Collaboration and Adaptation on 'Margaret the Brave' with Filmmaker Danny Chandia

    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast! In today's class, our hosts chat with Danny Chandia, local Las Vegas filmmaker, writer and director of MARGARET THE BRAVE and co-founder of Desert Cactus Films. They delve into Chandia's complex feelings about Las Vegas and presenting his upcoming project as a "Love letter to Las Vegas" that explores the local culture and community beyond the typical tourist attractions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Danny Chandia and MARGARET THE BRAVE 01:03 Danny's Journey into Filmmaking 05:29 The Creative Process Behind MTB 10:54 Exploring Themes of Family and Personal Experience 19:21 The Festival Circuit and Future Projects Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  Credits: HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile KEY GRIP- William Stanfield EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:  https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

    31 min

  5. 10/29/2025

    100 Years of Horror, Music, and Mystery w/ THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast! To celebrate the 100th year anniversary of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (1925), and to get into the Halloween season spirit, our hosts spent this class session discussing several iterations of the Phantom of the Opera. They discuss the symbolism of masks, revenge, and more in this episode in thanks to our partner movie house The Beverly Theater! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Phantom of the Opera 3:13 Comparing Phantom Adaptations 6:17 The Evolution of the Phantom's Character 10:05 Acting in Silent Films vs. Modern Adaptations 11:30 The Role of Music in Storytelling 14:05 The Reveal Scene: Impact and Interpretation 18:14 The Symbolism of Masks and Identity 23:03 The Midpoint and Stakes in the Story 26:00 Revenge and Consequences in Different Versions 29:31 Final Thoughts Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  Credits: HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile KEY GRIP- William Stanfield EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:  https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

    30 min
  6. Stalking Truth & Ambiguity w/ Luca Guadagnino's AFTER THE HUNT

    10/14/2025

    Stalking Truth & Ambiguity w/ Luca Guadagnino's AFTER THE HUNT

    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Pencils up everyone! In this class, we delve into Luca Guadagnino's film AFTER THE HUNT, exploring its themes of truth, character complexity, and the impact of its cinematography and music. Our hosts, alongside Professor Mona Nahm, discuss the film's ambiguity and how it reflects modern cultural issues, encouraging listeners to engage in discussions about personal truths and perspectives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Film Department Podcast 01:10 Spoiler-Free Review of 'After the Hunt' 02:25 Comparing 'After the Hunt' and 'Challengers' 04:33 Character Complexity and Ambiguity 06:47 Exploring Personal Truths in the Film 09:05 The Role of Music and Sound Design 11:24 Visual Storytelling and Cinematic Techniques 13:38 Themes of Truth and Deception 16:26 Philosophical Reflections and Takeaways 19:34 Character Analysis and Performance Highlights 22:26 The Significance of the Apartment's Design 26:42 The Title's Meaning and Implications Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  Credits: HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

    35 min

  7. 10/08/2025

    "How to Shoot a Successful 48 w/Edwin Ramirez"

    Welcome to TFD 301 - Film Podcasts for Everyone. Class is now in session! In this class our new hosts Lex, Matthew and Robby interview UNLV Film alum Edwin Ramirez ('24) whose 48 Hour Film Project - Las Vegas film THERE'S SOMETHING IN THE WATER won First Place: Best Film of 2025. Edwin shares his insider's knowledge for shooting a successful 48 Hour competition project as UNLV Film enters its own 48 this weekend (October 10-12) Takeaways Preparation is key for a successful 48-hour film. Finding unique locations can enhance production value. Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process. A well-written script is crucial, even in a short timeframe. Collaboration with a trusted crew can improve the final product. Editing during filming can save time and improve quality. Incorporating prompts creatively can enhance storytelling. Maintaining a positive atmosphere on set is essential. Feeding the crew is important for morale and productivity. Having fun is the ultimate goal of the 48-hour challenge. Summary In this engaging conversation, Edwin Ramirez shares his experiences and insights from participating in the 48-hour film festival. He discusses the importance of preparation, the writing process, and the challenges faced during filming. Edwin emphasizes the significance of collaboration with a trusted crew and the need for a well-written script, even in a short timeframe. He also highlights the themes and messages in his award-winning film, 'There's Something in the Water,' and offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. Sound bites "Preparation is key for a successful 48-hour film." "Finding unique locations can enhance production value." "Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup 01:06 Edwin's Background and 48-Hour Film Experience 05:48 Preparation for the 48-Hour Film Challenge 10:31 Writing and Shooting Process 15:17 Catering and Crew Management 19:56 Technical Aspects and Visuals of the Film 24:43 Themes and Messages in the Film 29:46 The Creative Process: Embracing Procrastination 30:21 Advice for the UNLV 48: Preparation and Casting 31:12 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey 31:28 Looking Forward: Anticipation for Future Projects 32:17 Podcast Structure: Setting the Stage for Future Episodes 34:31 Reflections on the Conversation: Insights and Takeaways 38:48 Final Thoughts: Wrapping Up the Episode Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts Credits: Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand  For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.  Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

    35 min

  8. 09/08/2025

    THE LONG WALK *Pre-Season Special* with Nic and David Rosen of Piecing it Together

    In a special pre-season episode of TFD, we're joined by one of last season's co-hosts, Nic Patrick and returning collaborator David Rosen of Piecing it Together Podcast for a review of THE LONG WALK, written by J.T. Mollner and Directed by Francis Lawrence. Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts Credits: Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  HOSTS - Nic Patrick, David Rosen PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand  For The Beverly: Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer Alexi Harber, General Manager Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: substack.com/thefilmdeptpodcast  This semester, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue. For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film. At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.  Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.

    32 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Film Dept. is the movie review podcast of UNLV Film at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Each semester, join three student film connoisseurs as they respond to screenings of films at The Beverly Theater: Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

Information

  • Creator
    UNLV Film
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © UNLV Film
  • Show Website
    The Film Dept.