The Film Dept.

UNLV Film

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. May 19

    Behind the Scenes of FUSE with director David Mackenzie

    Join hosts Thalia and Marie in a post-screening conversation with director and UNLV Film professor David Mackenzie on the making of FUSE. From filming in London’s intricate permitting landscape to refining scenes for maximum tension, this episode is packed with film industry secrets and creative wisdom — perfect for cinephiles and aspiring filmmakers alike! We discuss: The challenges and nuances of filming in London, including traffic, permits, and coordinating complex scenesThe influence of UK history and locations on the story's setting and moodThe importance of improvisation and scene timing in building tensionHow consulting experts like ex-military personnel enhances authenticityThe evolution of the script and editing choices that shape storytellingWorking with a talented cast including Theo James and Aaron Taylor-JohnsonThe financing lifecycle of a mid-budget film and navigating international salesThe significance of community and peer collaboration in filmmakingDecisions behind the film’s ambiguous ending and real-time storytellingResources & Links: UNLV Film ProgramProfessor David McKenzie - IMDbCredits: Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  HOSTS - Jaidyn Thalia Sanders, Meredith Costello, Marie Palmieri 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 School of Cinematic Arts at 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.

    26 min
  2. May 16

    Women @UNLVFilm: Breaking Barriers

    Today's class will follow our hosts, Thalia, Meredith, and Marie in conversation with Professors Andi Isaacs and Roudi Boroumand Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts YouTube Channel Breaking Barriers in Film: Women’s Voices and Leadership Get ready for a lively, inspiring conversation about the power of women in the film industry! Dive into stories of resilience, breaking stereotypes, and how education and community are shaping the future of cinematic storytelling. This episode celebrates the progress made and discusses the road ahead for women filmmakers, leaders, and students. In this episode: The journey of women breaking into Hollywood and behind the scenesKey statistics on gender parity in film education vs. industry rolesHow streaming platforms are creating new opportunities for women directorsThe importance of diverse storytelling driven by women’s perspectivesChallenges and victories in navigating a historically male-dominated industryThe role of education at UNLV in empowering the next generation of women filmmakersHow cultural backgrounds influence women’s paths in filmPractical advice for students about overcoming fear, networking, and finding their nicheThe impact of festival circuits, distribution, and industry shifts on women-led projectsThe importance of intersectionality and community support for sustainable changeTimestamps: (00:00) - Introduction to the episode and the guests(04:14) - Women’s experiences in the film industry: from Hollywood to Iran(09:14) - The role of education in fostering female filmmakers(12:24) - Gender disparities in film roles and leadership(19:07) - Streaming platforms opening doors for women directors(21:09) - Celebrating women-driven films like Barbie and their industry impact(25:42) - Industry shifts and the hope for future female leadership(27:52) - How UNLV nurtures diverse female talent in film(33:00) - Final thoughts on supporting women and community-driven growthResources & Links: UNLV School of Cinematic ArtsNevada Women's Film FestivalGender and Hiring in Film Report 2025Streaming Data on Women DirectorsConnect with the Guests: Professor Andi IsaacsRoudi BoroumandAdditional Notes: The episode highlights the importance of supportive educational environments and community initiatives like UNLV's diverse faculty and festivals.Emphasizes that success in film isn’t just about gender but talent and perseverance amid industry challenges.Encourages future filmmakers to embrace all roles and narratives, demonstrating that the industry is evolving toward equity and inclusion.Credits: Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  HOSTS - Jaidyn Thalia Sanders, Meredith Costello, Marie Palmieri 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. Tune in and be inspired to amplify women’s voices in the magic of cinema!

    27 min
  3. Mar 29

    Project Hail Mary

    Welcome back to The Film Dept Podcast. Get ready for a thrilling course this semester! Today's class will follow our new hosts, Thalia, Meredith, and Marie as they start off the semester discussing the hit book adaptation, PROJECT HAIL MARY, starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts In this episode of the Film Department Podcast, hosts Marie Palmieri, Thalia Sanders, and Meredith Costello review 'Project Hail Mary,' starring Ryan Gosling. They discuss Gosling's performance, the film's unique storytelling, emotional impact, and the human connections portrayed in a science fiction setting. The conversation also touches on audience engagement, themes of sacrifice and morality, character complexity, and the significant role of music in enhancing the film's narrative. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Project Hail Mary 01:05 Ryan Gosling's Performance and Character Dynamics 03:26 The Unique Storytelling of Project Hail Mary 05:15 Human Connection in Science Fiction 07:33 The Emotional Impact of the Film 10:24 Audience Engagement and Reactions 12:45 Themes of Sacrifice and Morality 15:08 Character Complexity and Relationships 18:30 Music and Soundtrack's Role in Storytelling 25:10 Final Thoughts and Overall Impressions Credits: Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com  HOSTS - Jaidyn Thalia Sanders, Meredith Costello, Marie Palmieri 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.

    28 min
  4. Feb 24

    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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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

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.