The MAKE IT Podcast

Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
  • 5.0 (100)
  • Film Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

MAKE IT is the film podcast that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process. We dive into indie gems, massive blockbusters, cinema history, and everything in between. If you love movies and want more than polite chit-chat, this is your spot. Stay Inspired, Chris + Nick

  1. SUMMARIES - Magali Barbe - How a Visual Effects Hoax Became a Philosophical Masterpiece

    5h ago

    SUMMARIES - Magali Barbe - How a Visual Effects Hoax Became a Philosophical Masterpiece

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, AI Hosts Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness dive deep into the remarkable career of London-based filmmaker and visual effects artist Magali Barbe, whose passion project short film Strange Beasts went viral overnight and landed her offers from 20th Century Fox and top Hollywood talent agencies. They explore how her 13 years as a pre-visualization artist on blockbuster films like Wonder Woman, Avengers: Endgame, and Fantastic Beasts gave her the technical foundation to create an independently produced short film so polished that Hollywood executives assumed it was a multi-million dollar studio production. The conversation broadens into a sweeping philosophical examination of how digital technology — from augmented reality and deepfakes to social media algorithms and genetic manipulation — is fundamentally reshaping human connection, perception, and society itself. We also talk about: The psychological toll of spending over a decade executing someone else's creative vision as a pre-visualization artist, and how that frustration became the fuel for Magali's creative pivot into independent filmmakingThe deliberate design philosophy behind the robot Max in This Time Away — specifically, why giving a futuristic robot the texture and finish of a 1970s kitchen appliance was a calculated psychological choice rooted in the uncanny valley theoryThe structural and cultural differences between the French and British film industries, including how France's government-subsidized CNC system creates institutional bureaucracy, while the UK's scarcity of funding forces a passionate, grassroots DIY filmmaking cultureThe concept of a "water bottle tour" in Hollywood — the grueling marathon of studio meetings that newly signed talent must endure, which functions less as a pitch session and more as a high-stakes personality and temperament auditThe piano chord metaphor shared by Chris Barkley in the original interview, which equates the musical necessity of space between notes to the human need for distance and breathing room in relationships, and how modern technology's relentless drive to eliminate friction may be destroying the beautiful music of genuine human connection People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned: People Magali Barbe (filmmaker/VFX artist) David Heyman (producer) Timothy Spall (stars in This Time Away) Tom Cruise (deepfake example) Films & Projects Strange Beasts (her viral short) This Time Away (her second short) Wonder Woman (previs) Kingsman: The Golden Circle (previs) Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (previs) Avengers: Endgame (previs) WALL-E (robot design reference) Companies, Organizations & Platforms Vimeo 20th Century Studios (formerly 20th Century Fox) United Talent Agency (UTA) CNC (Centre National du Cinéma) Silicon Valley Concepts & Technologies Pre-visualization (Previz) Augmented Reality (AR) The Uncanny Valley Deepfakes CRISPR Bully Whippets (myostatin / double-muscling) The Marketplace of Ideas "Move Fast and Break Things" Water Bottle Tour — industry-ritual slang for a series of back-to-back Studio meetings The Piano / F♯ and F♮ Metaphor — Chris Barkley's original analogy about conflict when one note (or person) smothers another 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 Subscribe: https://themakeitpodcast.store/shop/support Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    24 min
  2. 438 - Kevin Goetz - On Audience Testing 5,000+ Films, How He Became Hollywood's Most Powerful Audience Whisperer, and How to Use Audience Testing to Enhance Your Film (Not Destroy Your Vision)

    Jun 12

    438 - Kevin Goetz - On Audience Testing 5,000+ Films, How He Became Hollywood's Most Powerful Audience Whisperer, and How to Use Audience Testing to Enhance Your Film (Not Destroy Your Vision)

    This episode is brought to you by our e-book Mastering Film Marketing. Get your copy today at https://themakeitpodcast.com/products/mastering-film-marketing Hello, Hello!  In this episode, we sit down with legendary audience research expert Kevin Goetz, the CEO of Screen Engine, who has tested over 5,000 film and television titles for major studios over three decades. Kevin shares his journey from aspiring Broadway performer to becoming Hollywood's most trusted voice on audience testing, discussing how filmmakers can use audience feedback to enhance rather than compromise their creative vision. The conversation explores the evolution of audience expectations in the streaming era, the importance of knowing your deficits as an entrepreneur, and Kevin's philosophy on following passion over profit. We also talk about: • Kevin's childhood in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, and the family dynamics that shaped his drive for success • The misconceptions filmmakers have about audience testing and how it actually enhances creative vision • How streaming platforms have changed viewer behavior, and the need for compelling cold opens • The importance of self-awareness in leadership and surrounding yourself with people better than you at specific skills • Kevin's approach to delegation, team building, and scaling a business with 320 employees People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned: Screen Engine/ASI BBMG Entertainment — kevingoetz360.com How to Score in Hollywood Audienceology Producers Guild of America American Cinematheque Nashville Film Festival News & Media Services Ground News Semafor  The Media Line People Derek Guy (menswear writer) Joan Rivers Nicole Kidman Charles Roven (producer) Lauren Shuler Donner   Richard Donner Stephanie Allain  Donald De Line (PGA) Ben Fritz (Wall Street Journal) Barbara Jarrett Brooke Shields Jared Leto Travis Knight Films & TV Ghost Sinners Everything Everywhere All at Once Hacks (HBO Max) Masters of the Universe (He-Man movie) Backrooms (A24) Iron Lung Places & Institutions Bensonhurst, Brooklyn East Brunswick, New Jersey Nashville, Tennessee Vanderbilt University 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 www.themakeitpodcast.store/shop/support Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    1h 26m
  3. Spider-Noir | Is Nicolas Cage's Spider Noir the Most Vulnerable Superhero Ever Created?

    Jun 11

    Spider-Noir | Is Nicolas Cage's Spider Noir the Most Vulnerable Superhero Ever Created?

    Hello, Hello! 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 episode, host Nick explores Spider Noir, a groundbreaking superhero series that transforms Marvel mythology into a Depression-era noir meditation on aging, regret, and redemption. The show stars Nicolas Cage as Ben Reilly, a worn-down private investigator and former masked vigilante navigating the rain-soaked streets of 1930s New York. This isn't your typical superhero story—it's a slow-burn character study that prioritizes atmosphere and emotional depth over explosive action sequences. TAKEAWAYS: • Harry Bradbeer's directorial approach and the creative decision to use four different directors across eight episodes • The series' bold aesthetic choice offering both color and authentic black-and-white viewing options • How the multiverse concept allows superhero storytelling to age alongside audiences • The evolution from the animated Spider-Verse version to this more emotionally grounded live-action adaptation • Why prioritizing older heroes and mature themes represents an important shift in superhero cinema MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Spider-Noir Nicolas Cage Harry Bradbeer (director) Oren Uziel (writer) Ben Reilly (character) Fleabag Enola Holmes Raymond Chandler Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Peter Parker 1930s New York Great Depression Marvel Spider-Man Ebook: "Mastering Film Marketing" 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 www.themakeitpodcast.store/shop/support Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    12 min
  4. SUMMARIES - Danielle Vega - Child Star, Emmy Nominated Actress, and the Long Game of Resilience

    Jun 9

    SUMMARIES - Danielle Vega - Child Star, Emmy Nominated Actress, and the Long Game of Resilience

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, AI Hosts Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness discuss the career of actress Danielle Vega, who transitioned from childhood stardom in "Barney and Friends" to adult success. Vega's journey is highlighted as a case study in resilience, detailing her early audition process, the demanding physical conditions for performers, and the supportive environment at Katie Studios. The conversation explores Vega's transition to adult professionalism, her humbling experiences on the red carpet, and her eventual success in roles like "East Los High" and "Chicago Med." The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparation, learning from failures, and the impact of early experiences on professional growth. We also talk about: What it meant to be a mixed‑race child actor on a 1990s non‑union set that was paradoxically safer and more protective than many mainstream productions.The brutal physical reality behind the Barney suit and how witnessing that sacrifice shaped Danielle’s understanding of professionalism and dedication.How the “illusion of competence” and the credential trap led her to repeat the same mistake at age 22 that she learned to avoid at age 9.Her return to acting with East Los High, a pioneering transmedia teen drama that secretly delivered critical sex‑ed and abuse‑prevention resources to its audience.How all of this culminated in work on network television (including Chicago Med, directed by Carl Weathers) and a “closed‑loop” career that echoes the educational mission of Barney & Friends in a more mature form. People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned: Danielle Vega  David Joyner (Barney suit performer) Bob West (Barney's voice) Penny Wilson (choreographer)  Carl Weathers Apollo Creed (fictional character) Jake's Happy Nostalgia Show  Barney & Friends  Barney's Sense-Sational Day  East Los High  Chicago Med  Rocky Barney (the purple dinosaur) Kim — Danielle's character on Barney & Friends; Ceci Camayo — Danielle's character on East Los High Mima & Pop Pop — Kim's fictional grandparents on Barney & Friends SAG-AFTRA  Southern Methodist University (SMU)  Dallas, Texas  Hulu Transmedia storytelling  Beginner's mind (Shoshin) Illusion of competence (Dunning–Kruger effect)  Credential trap — a discussed concept, no single authoritative source Very Special Episode Trojan horse (as an education-delivery strategy) 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 Subscribe: https://themakeitpodcast.store/shop/support Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    18 min
  5. 437 - Stephen Marinaccio DGA UPM & Line Producer - What It Really Takes to Make a $100M Film, Lessons from 80+ International Projects, and How to Budget Like a Pro

    May 29

    437 - Stephen Marinaccio DGA UPM & Line Producer - What It Really Takes to Make a $100M Film, Lessons from 80+ International Projects, and How to Budget Like a Pro

    This episode is brought to you by our e-book Mastering Film Marketing. Get your copy today at https://allthingsmakeit.com/collections/learn 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 Pro when you use our link – www.claude.ai/makeit Hello, Hello!  In this episode, veteran line producer Stephen Marinaccio shares his 35+ years of experience managing productions across 30+ countries, from working with James Cameron to developing Line Budgeter, a revolutionary budgeting platform created by actual line producers. He discusses the essential skills needed for production management, the art of problem-solving on complex international shoots, and how his military upbringing shaped his detail-oriented approach to filmmaking. Stephen reveals the reality of managing multi-million dollar budgets and provides invaluable advice for aspiring production managers. We also talk about: • The development of Line Budgeter and why existing production software falls short • How to read scripts like a line producer and identify all hidden costs • The importance of communication and relationship management on set • Breaking down scenes to understand the true scope of production requirements • The role of AI in future film production and maintaining human creativity People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned: People Stephen MarinaccioJames CameronEmily Best (Seed&Spark)Sarah Childress (NPT Creative Director) NPT itself is hereEarl Woods Tiger WoodsEzekiel "Zeke" Emanuel (Rahm Emanuel's brother, author of Eat Your Ice Cream)Rob SchneiderMark Magidson (producer of Samsara)Ron Fricke (director of Samsara)Bix Beiderbecke (subject of the film Bix) Films & TV  12. Ghosts of the Abyss  13. The Abyss  14. Anora  15. The Blair Witch Project  16. Napoleon Dynamite  17. The Devil Wears Prada  18. Materialists  19. Citizen Kane  20. Cloud Atlas  21. Star Wars  22. Coming to America  23. Psycho  24. Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo  25. The Fall (2006)  26. Bix (1991)  27. Planet Earth  28. Samsara (2011)  29. Baraka (1992)  30. Marco Polo (Netflix)  31. Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan Media, Tech & Institutions  32. CBS  33. ABC News  34. Claude (and Claude Pro) 35. Gemini  36. Ableton  37. Google Workspace (Sheets, Docs, etc.) 38. Line Budgeter (Stephen's platform) 39. Movie Magic Budgeting  40. Final Draft  41. Kickstarter  42. Seed&Spark  43. AllThingsMakeIt.com  44. Nashville Film Festival  45. NPT (Nashville Public Television)  46. r/FilmTVBudgeting Places  47. San Rafael, California  48. Budapest, Hungary  49. Cambodia  50. Morocco  51. Thrilla in Manila  52. Novato, California  53. Fremont, California  54. Quad Cities / Davenport, Iowa  55. Skywalker Ranch  56. DGA Theater (part of the DGA) Wrestling & Guilds  57. WCW  58. WWE  59. WWF (World Wrestling Federation, now WWE) 60. DGA – Directors Guild of America  61. PGA – Producers Guild of America Industry Roles & Concepts 62. Line Producer  63. Unit Production Manager (UPM)  64. Second Unit Director  65. Executive Producer  66. Digital Imaging Technician (DIT)  67. Grip  68. Prints and Advertising (P&A)  69. Crowdfunding  70. Fiscal sponsorship 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 www.themakeitpodcast.store/shop/support Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    1h 59m
  6. SUMMARIES - Jennica Schwartzman - How to Build a Multi-Hyphenate Career Without Sacrificing Your Family

    May 26

    SUMMARIES - Jennica Schwartzman - How to Build a Multi-Hyphenate Career Without Sacrificing Your Family

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, AI hosts Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness explore the unconventional career journey of indie filmmaker Jennica Schwartzman, examining how she built a successful multi-hyphenate creative life without sacrificing family or integrity. They discuss her rejection of traditional linear career models in favor of a fluid, chapter-based approach that integrates multiple roles as actor, producer, writer, and parent. The conversation reveals how her background as a pastor's kid shaped her performance skills and fearless approach to grassroots filmmaking. We also talk about: • How growing up in the 1990s evangelical church culture provided unexpected creative training • Practical strategies for making film sets parent-friendly through structural changes • The psychology of grassroots fundraising and community relationship building • Why filmmakers should never waste social capital on short films • The importance of execution over talent in building trust within creative industries People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned: Jennica Schwartzman Purpose Pictures Productions TMDB (The Movie Database) Parker's Anchor Ridge Runners Gordon Family Tree XPK Podcast (Ex-Pastor-Kids, co-hosted with brother Marc Hampson) Movie Baking: The Indie Work-At-Home-Parent Filmmaker Behind the Screens DCLA Promise Keepers Fayetteville Travel Center Kickstarter 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 Subscribe: https://themakeitpodcast.store/shop/support Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    19 min
  7. 436 - Elsa Ramo - Entertainment Lawyer & Strategist - Why Entertainment Lawyers Need to Be in LA, The Hidden Costs of Not Hiring an Entertainment Lawyer, and Creative Vision vs. Commercial Reality

    May 15

    436 - Elsa Ramo - Entertainment Lawyer & Strategist - Why Entertainment Lawyers Need to Be in LA, The Hidden Costs of Not Hiring an Entertainment Lawyer, and Creative Vision vs. Commercial Reality

    This episode is brought to you by our e-book Mastering Film Marketing. Get your copy today at https://allthingsmakeit.com/collections/learn Hello, Hello!  In this episode, entertainment lawyer Elsa Ramo joins us to discuss the critical role of legal strategy in filmmaking and the entertainment industry. Ramo shares her journey from printing business cards at Kinko's to becoming a trusted advisor for major studios like Imagine Entertainment and production companies working on projects with Ron Howard, Ridley Scott, and Jude Law. The conversation covers everything from contract negotiations and creative deal-making to the impact of AI on the film industry and the importance of building relationships in Hollywood. We also talk about: • The difference between hiring a lawyer and the cost of not hiring one for independent creators • Whether filmmakers should hire an agent, manager, or lawyer first when starting their careers • How AI is transforming both content creation and legal services in the entertainment industry • The challenges of user-generated content versus traditional filmmaking in today's market • Key decision points in the filmmaking process where creators need legal consultation People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned: Imagine Entertainment Ron Howard Scott Free Productions (Ridley Scott) Universal Studios back lot Max (HBO Max) Cartoon Network California Lawyers for the Arts Film Independent Sundance Film Festival Cannes Film Festival Marina del Rey LA East Side vs. West Side Lisa Frank TMZ Dianna Russini & Mike Vrabel Chris Martin / Coldplay jumbotron incident Don's Plum Father's Office The Counter In-N-Out Burger The Real Housewives of Orange County Ramo Law PC 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 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    1h 36m
  8. Mortal Kombat II | Why Mortal Kombat II Works (Film Review)

    May 14

    Mortal Kombat II | Why Mortal Kombat II Works (Film Review)

    Hello, Hello! 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 episode, host Nick dives deep into Mortal Kombat II, exploring how the sequel successfully delivers on fan expectations through authentic combat, expanded mythology, and commitment to the franchise's core identity. The discussion examines how the film embraces its video game origins rather than apologizing for them, creating a spectacle that rewards longtime fans while demonstrating the evolution of video game adaptations in modern cinema. Nick analyzes the film's approach to character development, visual design, and fight choreography as a blueprint for successful franchise filmmaking. TAKEAWAYS: • Karl Urban's portrayal of Johnny Cage and the character's journey from washed-up action star to genuine hero • Martyn Ford's intimidating performance as Shao Kahn and the film's expanded character roster • Simon McQuoid direction and how it serves the existing fanbase rather than courting new audiences • The evolution of video game adaptations from niche entertainment to generational storytelling • How the film's visual design embraces fantasy over realism to create authentic arcade-inspired environments MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Mortal Kombat II Karl Urban (Johnny Cage) Martyn Ford (Shao Kahn) Simon McQuoid (director) Jeremy Slater (screenwriter) Ed Boon John Tobias Liu Kang Sonya Blade Jax Raiden Scorpion Kitana Jade Baraka Sindel Quan Chi Noob Saibot Ebook: "Mastering Film Marketing" The MAKE IT Podcast 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 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    11 min
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5
out of 5
100 Ratings

About

MAKE IT is the film podcast that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process. We dive into indie gems, massive blockbusters, cinema history, and everything in between. If you love movies and want more than polite chit-chat, this is your spot. Stay Inspired, Chris + Nick

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    522
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Bonsai Creative Enterprises, LLC 2026
  • Show Website
    The MAKE IT Podcast

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