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

    4H AGO

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

    5H AGO

    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
  3. Jefferson White - Story Is King - The Reality of a Career Actor and Creating Intimate Stories Using Thoughtful Cinematography

    2D AGO

    Jefferson White - Story Is King - The Reality of a Career Actor and Creating Intimate Stories Using Thoughtful Cinematography

    Learn more about Jefferson White here: Hello, Hello! In this Story Is King, Jefferson White joins the Make It Podcast to discuss his latest film, "Drink and Be Merry," a Christmas movie shot for just $60,000 in a New York dive bar. White shares insights into micro-budget filmmaking, his collaboration with director Adam Volderic, and the creative choices that gave the film its nostalgic, warm visual aesthetic. The conversation explores the challenges of making intimate character-driven stories about ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. We also talk about:  • The smart production strategy of using two locations and ensemble casting with New York character actors • How the film's color grading and cinematography evoke Christmas nostalgia and childhood memories • Jefferson's journey from small-town Iowa to professional acting and his formative college experience • The delicate tonal balance of playing a character who oscillates between high and low status • Essential audition advice focusing on preparation, authenticity, and the long-term nature of an acting career Products, Software, Websites, People, or Places Mentioned:  Drink and Be Merry The Holdovers (Paul Giamatti) It's a Wonderful Life A Christmas Story The Leftovers Adam Volerich Eye of the Duck Show Leo Winters The Ale 'N Wich (New York) Benicio Del Toro There Will Be Blood Mount Vernon, Iowa Iowa State University Sophie Zucker 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

    31 min
  4. 430 - Jefferson White, (Yellowstone, Chicago PD) on How to Make a Professional-Looking Feature Film for $60K, Scratching Lottery Tickets in Film, and How Constraints Drive Creative Innovation

    5D AGO

    430 - Jefferson White, (Yellowstone, Chicago PD) on How to Make a Professional-Looking Feature Film for $60K, Scratching Lottery Tickets in Film, and How Constraints Drive Creative Innovation

    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. Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off your first three months of Claude Pro when you use our link – www.claude.ai/makeit This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at www.shopify.com/makeit Hello, Hello!  In this episode, we sit down with actor Jefferson White (Yellowstone, Chicago PD) to discuss his latest indie film "Drink and Be Merry," which he made for just $60,000. White shares insights about balancing big-budget TV work with passion projects, the importance of long-term creative collaborations, and how he uses photography as a creative outlet between acting jobs. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of independent filmmaking, the art of auditioning, and White's journey from small-town Iowa to Hollywood success. We also talk about: • White's collaboration with director Adam Volderic and their production company, Means of Productions  • The creative constraints and advantages of micro-budget filmmaking versus big-budget productions  • White's upcoming projects include a Lee Harvey Oswald role and a Rambo prequel  • The psychology of playing villains and the importance of empathy in character development  • White's background in Iowa theater and his formative acting teacher, Matt Foss People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned: Drink and Be Merry Yellowstone Chicago PD The Matrix Reloaded In the Mood for Love It Was Just an Accident The Secret Agent No Other Choice The Last Picture Show True Grit From Here to Eternity The Holdovers Taxi Driver East of Eden One Battle After Another The Brutalist Everything Everywhere All at Once The Substance Adam Volerich Leo Winters Matt Foss Taylor Sheridan Heath Ledger Joaquin Phoenix Sean Penn Benicio Del Toro Cloris Leachman Donna Reed John Wayne Paul Thomas Anderson Wong Kar Wai Martin McDonagh Mount Vernon, Iowa Iowa State University Winnipeg, Manitoba Des Moines Nikon FM10 Pentax 6x7 Nikon F (1962) Hattie B's Prince's Hot Chicken Bishop's (Nashville Meat & 3 Restaurant) Eye of the Duck Show The Ale N Wich Bar M Shop Theater 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 55m
  5. IRON LUNG | How Markiplier Mastered Minimalist Horror Filmmaking

    6D AGO

    IRON LUNG | How Markiplier Mastered Minimalist Horror Filmmaking

    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, Nick dives deep into "Iron Lung," the minimalist horror film directed by and starring Mark Fischbach (Markiplier), exploring how the YouTube creator successfully transitioned from digital content to feature filmmaking. The discussion examines how Fischbach strategically designed his production around his resources and constraints, creating a contained thriller about a convict piloting a submarine through an ocean of blood. This film brief analyzes the movie as both a horror experience and a case study in smart independent filmmaking. TAKEAWAYS: The film serves as a case study in designing a production around one's strengths and audience, emphasizing the importance of making a film that maximizes one's skills and resources. Fischbach's strategic choice to focus on atmosphere over excess is highlighted as a smart move for independent filmmakers, reflecting the need to survive in the industry. The performance and the film's minimalist approach are seen as a poetic representation of a creator descending into darkness with limited air and personal direction, encouraging creative dreamers to design their stories around constraints. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to explore minimalist horror, creator-driven filmmaking, and the potential of transitioning from online platforms to feature storytelling, urging them to ask themselves what they can make that their audience wants to see. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Mark Fischbach (Markiplier) Iron Lung (film) Iron Lung (indie horror game) Nintendo Switch PlayStation 5 Mastering Film Marketing (ebook) 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

    8 min
  6. #18 - SUMMARIES | Kali Bailey - How to Rebrand Yourself from Crew Member to Director

    FEB 17

    #18 - SUMMARIES | Kali Bailey - How to Rebrand Yourself from Crew Member to Director

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, we dive deep into filmmaker Kali Bailey's unconventional path to the director's chair, exploring what she calls the "Swiss Army Knife approach" - mastering every job on set before directing. The conversation reveals both the advantages and dangerous pitfalls of being too competent at jobs you don't actually want, including the psychological challenge of rebranding yourself in an industry that loves to keep you in familiar boxes. From her defining moment watching Lord of the Rings at 14 to her viral Harry Potter fan film, Kali's story illustrates the complex balance between building comprehensive skills and avoiding the "curse of competence." We also talk about: • The specific technical language that gives directors credibility with crew members • Advanced editing techniques, including avoiding "ping pong editing" and focusing on reactions • Aaron Sorkin's "marble slab" approach to overcoming writer's block • Strategic decisions about film distribution: festivals versus direct-to-audience platforms • Navigating identity as a gay filmmaker in conservative markets People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:  Kali Bailey (filmmaker) The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Sam Gamgee Frodo Disney Plus Nissan Netflix "A Week Away" (Netflix musical) Bill Zahn (Pixar character artist) Aaron Sorkin "The Wasp" (short film) "Neville Longbottom and the Black Witch" (Harry Potter fan film) Sundance Tribeca (film festival) Southern Baptist Church George Lucas Star Wars Marvel Opal diffusion gel Source Episode: https://redcircle.com/shows/e5ef7af1-b154-4271-a463-fee78baaca9e/ep/d26a987a-560d-4b72-adac-dd907d9992ef 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

    14 min
  7. Yelena Popovic: What Does It Mean To Make It?

    FEB 13

    Yelena Popovic: What Does It Mean To Make It?

    Hello, Hello! In this segment, we wrap up our conversation with filmmaker Yelena Popovic, writer-director of the upcoming film "Moses: The Black Movie." The discussion concludes with a thoughtful exploration of what it means to "make it" in the film industry and life in general. Yelena shares her perspective on success, defining it as finding peace and contentment while continuing the process of becoming. We also talk about: • Yelena's definition of "making it" as an exit strategy versus personal fulfillment • The concept of arriving at peace and contentment in one's career • The importance of continuous growth and the process of becoming • Yelena's approach to social media and personal branding • The upcoming theatrical release of "Moses The Black." Mentioned in this episode:  Yelena Popovic (filmmaker) "Moses The Black" (film) Omar Epps (actor) Wiz Khalifa (executive producer) Quavo (executive producer) 50 Cent (executive producer) Yelena's Instagram 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

    5 min
  8. Clear The Set: Why Yelena Hates The Wolf of Wall Street

    FEB 12

    Clear The Set: Why Yelena Hates The Wolf of Wall Street

    Hello, Hello! In this Clear the Set, filmmaker Yelena Popovic joins us for our "Clear the Set" rapid-fire Q&A segment, sharing her top three films, including "Empty" by Sydney Lumet, "The Asphalt Jungle" by John Huston, and "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." She discusses films she's embarrassed not to have seen, movies everyone loves that she hates, and her go-to McDonald's cheat meal order. The conversation takes interesting turns as both host and guest bond over their perspectives on film criticism and life philosophy. We also talk about: • Classic cinema and the pressure to have seen "canon" films like Tarkovsky's work • Why "The Wolf of Wall Street" failed as a cautionary tale • Script quality issues in popular Hollywood films • The balance between healthy living and enjoying life's pleasures • Personal anecdotes about late-night fast food binges Mentioned:  The Mirror The Asphalt Jungle One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest The Wolf of Wall Street The Aviator The Departed Citizen Kane The Godfather On Golden Pond The Princess Bride Sydney Lumet John Huston Tarkovsky Leonardo DiCaprio Jordan Belfort Dom DeLuise McDonald's Krystals White Castle 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

    12 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
    496
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Bonsai Creative Enterprises, LLC 2026
  • Show Website
    The MAKE IT Podcast