Colorado Films: The Podcast!

Colorado Films

Your gateway to discovering extraordinary entertainment shaped by the spirit of Colorado. From the Western Slope to the Eastern plains, explore the cinematic landscape that makes Colorado a film lover's paradise.

  1. 6d ago

    Colorado Films: The Podcast! Conversation with Noah Smith President of the CFVA!

    On this episode of Colorado Films: The Podcast, I sit down with Noah Smith, President of the Colorado Film and Video Association (CFVA), @CFVA and founder of In Contrast Films, to discuss the current state and future of Colorado's film industry.We talk about the impact of Colorado's film incentives, the opportunities and challenges surrounding Sundance's move to Colorado, and how filmmakers across the state are working together to build a stronger, more connected community. Noah shares his insights on film festivals, industry advocacy, supporting local productions, and the importance of creating opportunities for filmmakers at every level.We also discuss Noah's own journey into filmmaking, his work in community building, and the CFVA's efforts to help Colorado become a sustainable home for film production and creative talent.Topics include:• Sundance in Colorado• Film incentives and legislation• Colorado film festivals• Community building and collaboration• Diversity and representation in film• Opportunities for local filmmakers• The future of Colorado's film industry#ColoradoFilms #CFVA #ColoradoFilmIndustry #ColoradoFilmmakers #SundanceFilmFestival #IndependentFilm #FilmPodcast #DenverFilm #FilmCommunity #Filmmaking

    51 min

  2. May 20

    Colorado Films interview with Tom Ropelewski of JILL SOBULE- Underdog Victorious

    On this Episode of colorado FIlms: The Podcast we sat down with filmmaker Tom Ropelewski to talk about his documentary Jill Sobule: Underdog Victorious.  A tribute to Denver-born singer-songwriter Jill Sobule, one of the most eclectic and underappreciated storytellers in modern music.The project began in 2017 as a film about protest music in America, but after struggling to find the right narrative and a pause during COVID, Tom pivoted to a full biographical portrait centered on Jill's life and her one-woman show F♯ 7th Grade. When Jill tragically passed away in a house fire in Minneapolis, Tom committed to finishing the film with even greater urgency to honor her legacy.The result is a 100-minute documentary structured like a Hollywood musical, weaving together 30 of Jill's songs alongside 24 hours of intimate interviews. Filmed with a small crew led by cinematographer Barry Braverman, the film features collaborators and friends including Tom Morello, Matt Groening. and Stephanie Miller. Jill always considered Denver home, and the documentary captures that connection through footage from her high school reunion and local house concerts. There are also 250–300 unreleased Jill Sobule songs being organized by the estate with the potential for a future box set. A test screening is being held in Denver with support from 105.5 The Colorado Sound, followed by a Q&A and plans for a DVD release with bonus performances.Jill once summed up her whole philosophy in a single text:"All I want to do is play shows, watch the Broncos, and resist." 🧡🎧 Listen to the full conversation here:  https://www.youtube.com/@Colorado-Films #ColoradoFilms #JillSobule #UnderdogVictorious #Documentary #Denver #ColoradoMusic #IndieMusic #SingerSongwriter #Podcast #TomRopelewski #MusicDocumentary #DenverMusic #IndieFilm #MusicLegacy #ColoradoPodcast

    46 min

  3. May 1

    Colorado Films Conversation with Tom McCartney Air Academy Film Program

    On this episode of Colorado Films: The Podcast, we speak with Thomas McCartney, director of the Air Academy High School film program. This Saturday, Air Academy is hosting their 4th annual student film festival, “SummerTime Stories.” We also discuss how the program has evolved from a traditional film analysis class into a hands-on, multi-level production pipeline.Here, students write, direct, shoot, and edit their own films while learning to collaborate as a real studio. Through the film program, students develop teamwork, leadership, and creative confidence.In our conversation we cover:• The shift from film literature to a hands-on filmmaking curriculum• Building a three-level program that mirrors real production environments• Teaching collaboration through film• Why mentorship and student ownership matter more than expensive gear• Growing from a small club into an award-winning program• Using festivals and competitions to push student work forward• The long-term vision of creating a pipeline into the film industryThis program has created award-winning films like The Last Try. It continues to grow by staying focused on people, process, and passion for filmmaking. With plans to expand into more competitions and build a public archive of student work, this is a clear example of how film drives real creative development and community.Get all the information and tickets here: https://sites.google.com/msa.asd20.org/aahsfilmfestival2026/home?authuser=0#h.7pwc4avwiw2s#ColoradoFilms #Filmmaking #StudentFilmmakers #FilmEducation #IndieFilm #ColoradoFilm #CreativeCommunity #NextGenCreators #Podcast

    45 min

  4. Apr 24

    Colorado Films: The Podcast! Conversation with Lance Lucero of Warehouse 9 Productions

    On this episode of Colorado Films: The Podcast we’re joined by Lance Lucero—award-winning independent filmmaker, writer, comic book editor, and founder of Warehouse 9 Productions. This was such a fun episode as Lance's new movie, "Hunting for Fish," was shot in my old high school stomping grounds in Thornton! Known for his commitment to shooting on real film, Lance has built a unique voice blending classic filmmaking techniques with original storytelling across both film and comics. His latest project, Hunting for Fish (now streaming on Prime), is a true passion project—29 years in the making and finally released to the world.In this episode, we dive into:• His creative journey from Colorado’s booming ‘90s film scene• Why shooting on film still matters in a digital world• The difference between independent filmmaking and studio productions• Turning scripts into comics—and comics back into film• Building a creative network and staying independentLance shares so many good tips on the film industry I was amazed. Lance shares insight into his process, his dedication to practical effects, and what it really takes to keep creating over decades without losing momentum.#ColoradoFilms #FilmPodcast #IndependentFilm #Filmmaking #DirectorLife #FilmCommunity #IndieFilmmaker #ShotOnFilm #FilmIsNotDead #Cinematography #Storytelling #CreativeProcess #FilmIndustry #PodcastLife #WatchIndie #SupportIndieFilm #ColoradoFilm #Warehouse9Productions #HuntingForFish #FilmmakerLife

    41 min

  5. Apr 15

    Colorado FIlms Conversation WIth Mandy & Mister Spooks of Ghoul Mates Entertainment

    New Episode of Colorado Films: The Podcast! We sat down with Mandy Spooks and Mister Spooks of Ghoul Mates Entertainment to talk about their upcoming short film Bad Boy follows a woman who suspects she’s dating a serial killer… but her dog may be hiding an even darker secret. A genre blending mix of romance, horror, and true crime created with women horror fans in mind. Also in this episode, we discuss: • How Mandy built the Ghoulster Squad community • Turning spooky content into filmmaking • Collaborating as a husband-and-wife directing team • The Denver horror community’s role in their first film • Balancing dark horror with fun, accessible storytelling • The future of indie horror and women in filmmaking Ghoul Mates Entertainment is currently in post-production with Bad Boy and planning their next steps — including a potential festival run and Halloween release. Follow them for updates and behind-the-scenes content! ⁨@mandyspooks⁩  #ColoradoFilms #HorrorCommunity #IndieFilm #WomenInFilm #HorrorMovies #GhoulMates #Filmmaking #DenverFilm #Podcast #SpookySeasonAllYear #IndieHorror

    46 min

  6. Apr 8

    Colorado Films: The Podcast! Conversation with Kathy Beeck Boulder International Film Festival

    🎬 New Episode of Colorado Films: The Podcast! This week we sit down with Kathy Beck — international businesswoman, filmmaker, producer, and co-founder of the Boulder International Film Festival. From working in Boulder movie theaters as a teenager to helping build one of the most celebrated film festivals in the country, Kathy shares the journey behind creating a true cultural institution. In this episode, we discuss: • How her early love of cinema shaped her career • The origin story behind the Boulder International Film Festival • Why storytelling always matters more than production value • Building a filmmaker-friendly festival environment • The impact of community-driven programs like Call to Action • Advice for filmmakers submitting to festivals Kathy also gives a preview of this year’s festival highlights — from adventure films and special guests to workshops and community initiatives that continue to make Boulder a hub for independent film. Get your tickets here: https://tickets.biff1.com/welcome #ColoradoFilms #ColoradoFilmmakers #BoulderFilm #BIFF #FilmFestival #IndependentFilm #Filmmaking #ColoradoEvents #Podcast #FilmCommunity #Storytelling

    39 min

  7. Apr 6

    Colorado FIlms: The Podcast! Conversations with Hunters Burns Castle Rock Film Fest

    🎬 New Episode of Colorado Films: The Podcast!In this episode, we sits down with Hunter Burns. Hunter is a filmmaker, marketing chair, and one of the driving forces behind the Castle Rock Film Festival. Hunter shares his journey into filmmaking, from sneaking into late-night movies as a kid to helping build one of Colorado’s growing grassroots film festivals.They dive into:• How the Castle Rock Film Festival got started• Building a film festival from the ground up• Supporting the local artist community• The importance of accessibility (including $1 screenings)• Plans for an independent theater in Castle Rock• Advice for filmmakers submitting to festivals• Hunter’s favorite horror films and programming highlightsHunter also discusses how the festival supports the Castle Rock Artist Alliance Veterans and First Responders Art Fund, and his long-term vision for expanding the arts in the community.If you're passionate about independent film, Colorado’s growing festival scene, or building creative communities — this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Tickets are going fast! Get your here: https://filmfreeway.com/CastleRockFilmFestival/tickets#ColoradoFilms #CastleRockFilmFestival #ColoradoFilm #FilmFestival #IndependentFilm #Filmmakers #ColoradoArtists #FilmCommunity #Podcast #SupportLocalFilm

    32 min

  8. Apr 2

    Colorado Films: The Podcast! Conversation with Beth Seymour

    🎬 New Episode of Colorado Films: The Podcast!As a CSU alum from the School of Liberal Arts, the ACT Film Fest makes me proud to be a Ram. Go Rams!!!We sat down with Beth Seymour, Executive Director of the ACT Human Rights Film Festival at Colorado State University in the College of Liberal Arts Fort Collins. Now in its 11th year, ACT continues to bring powerful human rights stories from around the world to Northern Colorado — pairing film with meaningful conversations that inspire awareness, empathy, and action.In this episode, Beth shares:• What first drew her to human rights storytelling• How ACT curates films from across the globe• The importance of balancing heavy topics with hopeful stories• Why experiencing films in a theater creates deeper connections• How the Fort Collins community has helped ACT grow• What first-time attendees can expect from the festival🎟️ ACT’s mission — Awaken, Connect, Transform — is an invitation to experience stories that stay with you long after the credits roll.#ColoradoFilms #Podcast #ACTHumanRightsFilmFestival #FortCollins #CSU #FilmFestival #HumanRights #DocumentaryFilm #IndieFilm #ColoradoFilm #Storytelling #FilmCommunity #SupportIndieFilm #FilmPodcast #GoRams

    31 min
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Your gateway to discovering extraordinary entertainment shaped by the spirit of Colorado. From the Western Slope to the Eastern plains, explore the cinematic landscape that makes Colorado a film lover's paradise.

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