Unscripted Podcast

Devin Thomas

Unscripted with Devin Thomas is a weekly deep-dive into the mind of an indie filmmaker navigating the ever-changing landscape of cinema, creativity, and culture. From behind-the-scenes filmmaking insights and writing philosophy to Hollywood updates, movie reviews, and motivational reflections—each episode blends personal experience with industry commentary. Whether you're chasing a dream or just love movies, this show is about momentum, purpose, and taking action. No fluff—just real talk for creatives who keep showing up. New episodes every week.

  1. #66 - Light at the End of the Tunnel (War of the Worlds, The Last Crusade, Richard Jewell, The Fast and the Furious, 2 Fast 2 Furious)

    Jun 10

    #66 - Light at the End of the Tunnel (War of the Worlds, The Last Crusade, Richard Jewell, The Fast and the Furious, 2 Fast 2 Furious)

    Devin Thomas returns with Episode 66 of Unscripted, reflecting on what finally feels like the beginning of the end of a long and exhausting move. With multiple buyers showing interest in the house and a sale potentially on the horizon, Devin discusses the relief that comes with finally seeing the finish line after months of uncertainty and transition. The conversation shifts toward health and wellness, with long walks, trips to Indian Springs, and a renewed focus on recovery and balance. As life begins to settle down, Devin reflects on the importance of taking care of both mind and body while continuing to pursue creative goals. Creatively, this week was highlighted by the unexpected success of Peninsula Nights on YouTube. After years of waiting to release the film online, it has already surpassed 16,000 views and continues to gain momentum. Devin shares his thoughts on independent filmmaking, patience, and how creative projects can find new life long after they're completed. The episode also dives into the ongoing development of the feature version of Encounter, with a strong focus on story, character, and building the right foundation before moving forward. Alongside the alien feature, new ideas continue to emerge, ranging from science fiction to drama and thriller concepts inspired by the landscapes and atmosphere of Salinas and Monterey County. Outside of filmmaking, Devin discusses the upcoming launch of his iOS game, UFO Run, a simple but addictive experience he describes as "Flappy Bird meets UFOs." After months of development and navigating Apple's approval process, the game is nearing release and represents another creative outlet beyond film and podcasting. In this week's film segment, Devin reflects on the work of Steven Spielberg, discusses War of the Worlds and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and revisits Richard Jewell, The Fast and the Furious, and 2 Fast 2 Furious, exploring everything from classic blockbuster filmmaking to character-driven drama and franchise storytelling. A hopeful and forward-looking conversation about health, creativity, persistence, and why sometimes the projects you believe in just need time to find their audience. New episodes weekly – subscribe now. Support the Show: Buy me a coffee and help keep the films and podcast going: https://ko-fi.com/unscriptedpodcast 📖 The Filmmaker’s Mindset A daily dose of discipline, clarity, and creative focus for filmmakers. → Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Devin-Thomas/dp/B0GX1GR774 🎬 Watch my debut feature film Peninsula Nights — now streaming on Prime Video: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Peninsula-Nights/0ISHPR2AFTZ07Z5IGP2WG5OUGH 🎭 A modern casting platform connecting actors and filmmakers worldwide. → Join free: https://auditionsapp.io 🚀 Level up your color grading with cinematic LUTs → https://lutdepot.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎶 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RuGbCg... 📲 Follow me for updates and behind-the-scenes content: Instagram: @devinthomasfilm X (Twitter): @devinthomasfilm Website: https://devinthomasfilm.wixsite.com/u... IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38056342...

    1h 11m
  2. #65 - Movies On My Mind (Exit 8, Spider-Noir, Scream 7, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie)

    Jun 1

    #65 - Movies On My Mind (Exit 8, Spider-Noir, Scream 7, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie)

    Devin Thomas returns with Episode 65 of Unscripted, reflecting on another week of moving, adapting to a new routine, and continuing to find stability in the middle of transition. While life remains hectic, the focus this week shifts toward health, creativity, and the surprising response to his latest short film. Devin discusses the release of Encounter, his alien abduction-inspired short film, and shares his thoughts on writing, shooting, editing, and ultimately putting the project out into the world. What began as a small passion project sparked a much larger response than expected, with viewers reaching out and connecting with the film in meaningful ways. The experience has inspired new creative momentum and renewed interest in expanding the concept into a feature-length alien story. The conversation also explores the unique atmosphere of Salinas and Monterey County, from River Road and ranchland to the agricultural landscape that gives the region its distinct character. Devin reflects on why local stories matter and how the Salinas aesthetic continues to inspire not only an alien feature concept, but other projects he has discussed previously, including a Salinas-set crime thriller. Health and wellness remain a major focus as well, with trips to Indian Springs, long walks, and a simplified diet helping maintain consistency during the move. There is also a lighthearted discussion about the seemingly endless lines at the Salinas In-N-Out and the routines that become part of everyday life. In this week’s film segment, Devin discusses the upcoming Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Scream 7, Exit 8, and Spider-Noir, exploring the future of major franchises, video game adaptations, horror, and genre storytelling. A reflective and optimistic conversation about creativity, health, community, and finding inspiration close to home while building toward the next chapter. New episodes weekly – subscribe now. Support the Show: Buy me a coffee and help keep the films and podcast going: https://ko-fi.com/unscriptedpodcast 📖 The Filmmaker’s Mindset A daily dose of discipline, clarity, and creative focus for filmmakers. → Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Devin-Thomas/dp/B0GX1GR774 🎬 Watch my debut feature film Peninsula Nights — now streaming on Prime Video: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Peninsula-Nights/0ISHPR2AFTZ07Z5IGP2WG5OUGH 🎭 A modern casting platform connecting actors and filmmakers worldwide. → Join free: https://auditionsapp.io 🚀 Level up your color grading with cinematic LUTs → https://lutdepot.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎶 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RuGbCg... 📲 Follow me for updates and behind-the-scenes content: Instagram: @devinthomasfilm X (Twitter): @devinthomasfilm Website: https://devinthomasfilm.wixsite.com/u... IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38056342...

    1h 7m
  3. #64 - Forward and Onward (Domestic Disturbance, Michael, Undertone, In The Line Of Fire)

    May 23

    #64 - Forward and Onward (Domestic Disturbance, Michael, Undertone, In The Line Of Fire)

    Devin Thomas returns with Episode 64 of Unscripted, reflecting on another long week of moving, instability, and trying to stay creatively locked in while life continues shifting around him. Despite the chaos of transition, the focus this week turns heavily toward filmmaking — specifically the production and editing of a new alien abduction-inspired short film shot over a single night. Devin breaks down the experience of getting back behind the camera, working through the realities of low-budget filmmaking, and why actually making films remains the best way to sharpen your instincts. From editing and pacing to coverage and storytelling, the process becomes a reminder of how much growth has happened over the years as a filmmaker — and why the slow, difficult nature of filmmaking ultimately makes the finished result so rewarding. The conversation also touches on balancing multiple creative worlds, including stepping away briefly to handle press for California Roots Music and Arts Festival, while continuing to think long-term about storytelling, directing, and the next wave of projects. In this week’s film segment, Devin revisits Domestic Disturbance, reflects on the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic Michael starring Jaafar Jackson, discusses the indie horror atmosphere of Undertone, and breaks down the classic thriller craftsmanship of In the Line of Fire. A grounded and creative conversation about staying productive through uncertainty, keeping your filmmaking skills sharp, and continuing to build momentum one project at a time. New episodes weekly – subscribe now. Support the Show: Buy me a coffee and help keep the films and podcast going: https://ko-fi.com/unscriptedpodcast 📖 The Filmmaker’s Mindset A daily dose of discipline, clarity, and creative focus for filmmakers. → Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Devin-Thomas/dp/B0GX1GR774 🎬 Watch my debut feature film Peninsula Nights — now streaming on Prime Video: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Peninsula-Nights/0ISHPR2AFTZ07Z5IGP2WG5OUGH 🎭 A modern casting platform connecting actors and filmmakers worldwide. → Join free: https://auditionsapp.io 🚀 Level up your color grading with cinematic LUTs → https://lutdepot.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎶 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RuGbCg... 📲 Follow me for updates and behind-the-scenes content: Instagram: @devinthomasfilm X (Twitter): @devinthomasfilm Website: https://devinthomasfilm.wixsite.com/u... IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38056342...

    1h 2m
  4. #63 - New Normal (Terrifier, The Cat in the Hat)

    May 13

    #63 - New Normal (Terrifier, The Cat in the Hat)

    Devin Thomas returns with Episode 63 of Unscripted, settling into what’s starting to feel like a new normal. After weeks of moving, instability, and living between spaces, Devin reflects on adapting to constant transition while continuing to create through the chaos. It’s a grounded conversation about momentum, discipline, and learning how to function creatively even when life feels anything but stable. This week’s creative focus centers around Slugger, a new short film project that feels both purposeful and achievable — the kind of film that represents not just a story, but a direction. Devin discusses the importance of making work that is realistic to execute while still pushing creatively, and why building momentum through completed projects matters more than waiting for perfect conditions. The conversation also dives into long-term vision and mindset, with Devin revisiting ideas from his book The Filmmaker Mindset and reflecting on the mental side of being an artist. Through affirmations, self-belief, and action, the episode explores what it means to keep building during uncertain periods and how mindset ultimately shapes creative output. In this week’s film segment, Devin breaks down Terrifier as an example of grassroots indie horror evolving into a major franchise through persistence and audience support, and revisits The Cat in the Hat, discussing its surreal visual style and the fascinating fact that it was shot by legendary cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki before his later work on films like Children of Men, Birdman, and The Revenant. A reflective, creative, and forward-looking conversation about adapting to change, staying focused through uncertainty, and continuing to build your future one project at a time. New episodes weekly – subscribe now. Support the Show: Buy me a coffee and help keep the films and podcast going: https://ko-fi.com/unscriptedpodcast 📖 The Filmmaker’s Mindset A daily dose of discipline, clarity, and creative focus for filmmakers. → Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Devin-Thomas/dp/B0GX1GR774 🎬 Watch my debut feature film Peninsula Nights — now streaming on Prime Video: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Peninsula-Nights/0ISHPR2AFTZ07Z5IGP2WG5OUGH 🎭 A modern casting platform connecting actors and filmmakers worldwide. → Join free: https://auditionsapp.io 🚀 Level up your color grading with cinematic LUTs → https://lutdepot.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎶 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RuGbCg... 📲 Follow me for updates and behind-the-scenes content: Instagram: @devinthomasfilm X (Twitter): @devinthomasfilm Website: https://devinthomasfilm.wixsite.com/u... IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38056342...

    45 min
  5. #62 - Liminal Daze (Friday The 13th, Species)

    May 4

    #62 - Liminal Daze (Friday The 13th, Species)

    Devin Thomas returns with Episode 62 of Unscripted, coming off a long, transitional week filled with house showings, early mornings, coffee runs, and the ongoing chaos of moving between spaces. Splitting time between his home and his parents’ house, Devin reflects on the mental challenge of living without a routine — and what it takes to stay focused while everything around you is in flux. But creatively, the bigger conversation takes over. This episode dives deep into the future of filmmaking and the undeniable shift happening across the industry. Devin lays out his perspective on why the traditional Hollywood model is no longer what it once was — with studios increasingly reserved for established names and industry-connected talent — and what that means for everyone else trying to break in. The answer: build your own path. With the technological gap between indie creators and studio productions closing faster than ever, Devin makes the case that we’re on the edge of a true indie explosion. Cameras, tools, and distribution are no longer gatekept — and for those willing to put in the work, the opportunity is real. It’s no longer about waiting for permission or getting lucky — it’s about action, consistency, and creating your own body of work. He points to real-world examples already happening — from The Backrooms, directed by Kane Parsons after building a following on YouTube, to the breakout success of creators like Curry Barker, whose independent work led to development opportunities with Blumhouse Productions. The pipeline has changed — and the industry is starting to take notice. In this week’s film segment, Devin revisits the Friday the 13th films (1–8), breaking down their raw, experimental approach to building the slasher genre in real time, and dives into Species, reflecting on its blend of sci-fi, horror, and 90s-era studio filmmaking. A high-energy, forward-looking episode about disruption, opportunity, and taking control of your creative future — with a clear message: if you want to be part of this next wave, stop waiting and start building. New episodes weekly – subscribe now. Support the Show: Buy me a coffee and help keep the films and podcast going: https://ko-fi.com/unscriptedpodcast 📖 The Filmmaker’s Mindset A daily dose of discipline, clarity, and creative focus for filmmakers. → Get the book: https://devinthomasfilm.gumroad.com/l/thefilmmakermindset 🎬 Watch my debut feature film Peninsula Nights — now streaming on Prime Video: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Peninsula-Nights/0ISHPR2AFTZ07Z5IGP2WG5OUGH 🎭 A modern casting platform connecting actors and filmmakers worldwide. → Join free: https://auditionsapp.io 🚀 Level up your color grading with cinematic LUTs → https://lutdepot.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎶 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RuGbCg... 📲 Follow me for updates and behind-the-scenes content: Instagram: @devinthomasfilm X (Twitter): @devinthomasfilm Website: https://devinthomasfilm.wixsite.com/u... IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38056342...

    45 min
  6. #61 - Creative Purgatory (Layover, Step Brothers, Superbad, Paul Blart, Ricky Stanicky)

    Apr 27

    #61 - Creative Purgatory (Layover, Step Brothers, Superbad, Paul Blart, Ricky Stanicky)

    Devin Thomas returns with Episode 61 of Unscripted, reflecting on one of the busiest and most transitional weeks yet. With his current home being prepped for market and already in escrow on a new place, Devin is deep in the chaos of moving — packing, staging, and living between spaces while pushing toward a clean, fast transition into the next chapter. This episode captures the reality of being in-between. Half living at home, half in a staged house, Devin breaks down the stress, the pressure, and the strange feeling of not being fully settled anywhere — while staying grounded in the understanding that this is all part of leveling up. It’s a raw look at what growth actually feels like when you’re in the middle of it. Amid the chaos, the creative momentum doesn’t stop. Devin shares how he’s been refining his Salinas-based thriller, dialing in tone and structure, and unlocking new ideas for the future of his filmmaking. It’s a reminder that even in the busiest, most unstable moments, creativity can still push forward — and sometimes even thrive under pressure. The conversation also expands into a broader reflection on technology and culture, as Devin dives into the rise of AI and the growing sense that people are craving something real. In a world increasingly driven by digital experiences, algorithms, and virtual interaction, he explores why audiences are beginning to yearn for authenticity, human connection, and tangible, in-person experiences — both in life and in storytelling. In this week’s film segment, Devin breaks down a range of comedies and their impact — from the indie microbudget approach of Layover, to the cultural staying power of Step Brothers and Superbad, highlighting their quotability and influence on an entire generation. He also touches on Ricky Stanicky as a modern original comedy and revisits Paul Blart: Mall Cop from a technical perspective, discussing its place in the early days of the digital cinema transition. A grounded, high-pressure episode about transition, creativity, and staying focused through uncertainty — with a clear throughline: even in the middle of chaos, you’re still moving forward. New episodes weekly – subscribe now. Support the Show: Buy me a coffee and help keep the films and podcast going: https://ko-fi.com/unscriptedpodcast 📖 The Filmmaker’s Mindset A daily dose of discipline, clarity, and creative focus for filmmakers. → Get the book: https://devinthomasfilm.gumroad.com/l/thefilmmakermindset 🎬 Watch my debut feature film Peninsula Nights — now streaming on Prime Video: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Peninsula-Nights/0ISHPR2AFTZ07Z5IGP2WG5OUGH 🎭 A modern casting platform connecting actors and filmmakers worldwide. → Join free: https://auditionsapp.io 🚀 Level up your color grading with cinematic LUTs → https://lutdepot.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎶 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RuGbCg... 📲 Follow me for updates and behind-the-scenes content: Instagram: @devinthomasfilm X (Twitter): @devinthomasfilm Website: https://devinthomasfilm.wixsite.com/u... IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38056342...

    57 min
  7. #59 - Becoming Dangerous (Cocktail, Mercy, Deep Water)

    Apr 6

    #59 - Becoming Dangerous (Cocktail, Mercy, Deep Water)

    Devin Thomas returns with another episode of Unscripted, reflecting on a week centered around wellness, momentum, and stepping fully into identity as a filmmaker. With life feeling more stable and Stephen Rayger's health reaching its strongest point yet, Devin leans into gratitude while building forward — personally, creatively, and professionally. This episode marks a shift in mindset. Devin declares his intention to become the best indie filmmaker wherever he goes, breaking down why independence, adaptability, and skill matter more than budget, crew size, or traditional industry pathways. He dives into the philosophy of one-man-band filmmaking, pushing the idea that true creative power comes from being able to operate in any environment and still deliver. On the technical side, Devin talks gear — from the cinematic quality of Zeiss CP.2 lenses to the versatility of the Panasonic HC-X2 as a true “Swiss Army knife” for indie filmmakers — reinforcing the idea that it’s not about having the biggest tools, but knowing how to use what you have. In this week’s film segment, he revisits Cocktail (1988), exploring its themes of ambition and identity beneath its glossy surface, breaks down Mercy (2026) and its AI-driven, near-future police state concepts, and highlights Deep Water (2022) as a slept-on, atmosphere-heavy erotic thriller driven by tone and tension over plot. A grounded but driven episode about ownership, discipline, and becoming dangerous in your craft — with a clear message: you don’t wait for permission, you build it yourself.

    48 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Unscripted with Devin Thomas is a weekly deep-dive into the mind of an indie filmmaker navigating the ever-changing landscape of cinema, creativity, and culture. From behind-the-scenes filmmaking insights and writing philosophy to Hollywood updates, movie reviews, and motivational reflections—each episode blends personal experience with industry commentary. Whether you're chasing a dream or just love movies, this show is about momentum, purpose, and taking action. No fluff—just real talk for creatives who keep showing up. New episodes every week.