Film Production

IFH 806: Shooting Sharks in Your Living Room: The Art of DIY Filmmaking with Ron Bonk

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Somewhere in the back alleys of the American dream, between the flicker of VHS static and the roar of midnight creature features, there exists a filmmaker with a toothy vision. On today’s episode, we welcome Ron Bonk, a self-taught indie film warrior who carved his way out of the antiquing business and into the bleeding heart of low-budget cinema.

Ron Bonk is a filmmaker and founder of SRS Cinema, best known for his cult horror-comedy “House Shark,” a film that quite literally brings the predator home.

In this raw and unfiltered conversation, we dive through the celluloid splinters of Ron’s journey, from borrowing camcorders at community college to orchestrating gore-laced dreamscapes in his own home. With the candor of a man who’s fought a hundred cinematic battles and still wakes up smiling, Ron recounts the moment he knew filmmaking wasn’t just a hobby—it was his spiritual vocation. He speaks of camcorders as if they were holy relics, and each low-budget shoot like a shamanic rite of passage. “I had to wear all the hats,” he admits, recalling 18-hour days of lighting, directing, and sometimes even serving the food. There’s a beautiful madness to that kind of devotion.

But what separates Ron from the common herd of content creators is his monk-like surrender to the calling. This is a man who would rather tell the story in his bones than chase distribution deals. When others sold out to weekend wedding shoots and corporate gigs, Ron stayed the course, even launching his own distribution company just to make sure his movies—and others like them—had a place to live. His filmmaking compass always pointed toward the misfit, the grotesque, the beautiful weird. “The idea was: how can I make something that’s mine, and still feed my kids?” he says, with a smile you can almost hear.

And then came “House Shark.” Born not in a boardroom or a script lab, but from the sound of ice cracking on his roof during a harsh Syracuse winter. Where some might see inconvenience, Ron saw inspiration. “Shark in a house,” he thought. And just like that, the impossible was made possible. The film is more than just a hilarious genre-bending monster romp—it’s a testament to what happens when you embrace your constraints and alchemize them into pure creative gold. He shot most of it in his own home, because he could control the space, the light, the chaos. The film became a sandbox of invention, a love letter to every filmmaker who ever asked, “What if?”

Ron’s journey also offers a cautionary tale cloaked in encouragement. He warns of the seductive pull of “safe” creative paths—weddings, commercials, and gigs that pay the rent but starve the soul. Yet he understands the temptation. “It’s easier said than done,” he acknowledges, “but you’ll blink and ten years have passed, and that movie you wanted to make is still sitting in your drawer.”

Throughout it all, there’s a recurring motif: the indie filmmaker as a sacred trickster. Whether telling the cops he’s shooting a student film or designing perks for an Indiegogo campaign that just barely breaks even, Ron adapts, survives, evolves. He speaks not just for himself, but for a whole tribe of underdog storytellers chasing celluloid ghosts across their living room floors.

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IFH 805: Why Your Film Isn’t Getting Made (And What to Do About It) with Ron Newcomb

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When the moon is high and the muse is low, we often find ourselves in deep conversation with our own souls, asking, “Why do I do this?” And on today’s episode, we welcome the steadfast and visionary Ron Newcomb, a former Marine and police officer who has traded in his uniform for a camera, answering that very question not just with thought—but with action.

Many walk the tightrope between dreams and reality. But Ron doesn’t walk it; he builds it. With a full-time job, family responsibilities, and the unrelenting buzz of daily life, filmmaking becomes more than a pursuit—it becomes a pilgrimage. In our conversation, Ron unveils the raw truth behind being a modern-day storyteller, caught between the 9-to-5 grind and the eternal call of the creative. His journey is not just about making films; it’s about making space in a crowded world to remember who we really are when the credits roll.

You see, filmmaking, as Ron wisely puts it, “isn’t a want—it’s a calling.” It’s not about lighting up a screen; it’s about lighting a fire. There is a reverence in his approach, a kind of worship in the way he speaks of independent cinema. He isn’t interested in chasing fame or fortune but in answering that whispering voice within that says, “Tell this story. It matters.” In an age where distractions are currency, Ron is cashing in for clarity. He’s figured out that doing the work is the real prayer.

As a self-proclaimed “storyteller,” Ron lays out three sacred paths for the indie filmmaker: seeking a manager to break through studio gates, finding a producing partner to align energies with, or rallying investors to go it alone. “I’m going to bang the drum on all three,” he says. That’s not just a plan—it’s a mantra. And true to that vow, he’s organizing a bold, DC-based pitch event to connect filmmakers with gatekeepers. It’s a beautiful paradox—waiting for no one while creating opportunities for everyone.

We explored how the daily discipline—rising at six, family dinners, late-night writing—becomes the framework for resilience. This isn’t just about making movies; it’s about making meaning. Ron explains, “Contentment is found in the process, not the end result.” How very Zen. Each film, each failed Kickstarter, each late-night script rewrite is not a detour—it is the path. As he puts it, “You should feel filmmaking breathe within you.” And if it doesn’t? It may be time to let go.

Ron also speaks with reverence for collaboration, knowing that the alchemy of filmmaking lies not in the lone genius, but in the orchestra of souls rowing in rhythm. He is generous in spirit and grounded in grit, reminding us that the true power isn’t just in raising capital or climbing a ladder—it’s in raising each other. “If we all just left ego aside for a moment, I believe that all of us could get what we wanted.” There’s more than wisdom in that; there’s a way forward.

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IFH 804: How I Made a Cult Zombie Movie for $75 and Took On Hollywood with Marc V. Price

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When a zombie filmmaker makes you laugh so hard you forget you’re talking about death and destruction, you know you’re in for something special. On today’s episode, we welcome Marc V. Price, a fiercely independent British filmmaker whose claim to fame is making a cult zombie feature called Colin for just £45. That alone should make you lean in. But that’s just the prologue. This is a man whose journey into the heart of DIY cinema is paved not with glamour, but with grit, late-night edits, and an undying love for storytelling that’s as infectiously entertaining as the virus in his debut film.

Marc V. Price is a visionary guerrilla filmmaker who turns limited budgets into limitless creativity.

In this profound conversation, we dive deep into the chaos, comedy, and consciousness of being an indie director who not only survived the industry’s many booby traps, but did so while telling stories worth hearing. His reflections on Colin—a film made while overdrafted and eating whatever he could scrape up—are as humble as they are inspiring. What started as an experiment in shoestring storytelling exploded into a global festival darling, not because it was flashy, but because it was honest. And that’s where Marc’s strength lies—he doesn’t pander, he creates.

We drift into an epic conversation on the Star Wars universe. This isn’t fanboy babble; it’s an existential breakdown of myth, legacy, and the strange, often contradictory reactions that fandom provokes. Marc speaks with wit and clarity about his take on The Last Jedi, “I have a character, I have no idea where Kylo Ren is going in the next film, so I’m really interested now.” There’s no arrogance in his opinion, just a deep appreciation for complexity and imperfection, a theme that winds its way through all his art.

But Marc isn’t just waxing poetic about galaxies far, far away. He shares the alchemy behind his newer projects—Nightshooters and A Fistful of Lead. These aren’t just action flicks; they’re love letters to the film crews behind the scenes. Imagine a group of low-budget filmmakers caught in a building rigged for demolition while gangsters try to kill them—forced to use their behind-the-camera skills to survive. This isn’t satire, it’s celebration. It’s also the sort of beautiful madness only someone like Marc could conjure.

What stands out most is Marc’s radical respect for collaboration. He believes the true magic of filmmaking lies in giving young talent real responsibility. On his sets, interns aren’t coffee runners—they’re script supervisors and first ACs. This communal spirit translates into films that are textured, layered, and brimming with the energy of people who actually care. He’s not just making movies; he’s building a village.

Even in setbacks—like getting fired from a film he poured his soul into—Marc finds the lesson, finds the momentum. Instead of sulking, he pivots. He doubles down. He makes another movie. And another. By the end of the month, he’ll have two features under his belt. He’s not chasing Hollywood; he’s chasing the muse, armed with a battered camera, a mischievous grin, and a hell of a lot of heart.

And perhaps most beautifully, Marc wears his humanity like armor. He laughs at himself, calls out his own missteps, and embraces the contradictions of the creative life. From living broke with roommates in London, to pitching ridiculous Star Wars spin-offs, to dreaming of snow-covered Westerns in the UK, he embodies what it means to stay playful—even when things get dark.

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IFH 795: Balancing Hollywood Productions and Indie Passion Projects with Jamie Buckner

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Some stories unfold not with a bang, but with the echo of a bowling ball rolling down a waxed lane—steady, unpredictable, and brimming with hidden intention. On today’s episode, we welcome a filmmaker whose journey is stitched together with sweat-soaked call sheets, stubborn creative grit, and a romance with storytelling that stretches back to a Sunglass Hut in Cincinnati. Jamie Buckner is a writer, director, and production coordinator who took a simple idea—a romantic comedy set in a bowling alley—and transformed it into a heartfelt indie film with an uncanny twin name.

What unfolds in this conversation is not just the tale of a film called Split, but the soul of a storyteller who refused to let his creative voice be muffled by the chaos of working behind the scenes on massive Hollywood productions. Jamie shares how he stitched together moments between 14-hour workdays, late-night office hours, and endless sets to keep rewriting, reworking, and resurrecting the script for Split. “The creative muscle will atrophy if you don’t exercise it,” he says. In that moment, you understand that this is no ordinary guest; this is someone for whom storytelling is oxygen.

His story reads like a modern parable for artists. From early days bouncing between dreams of music, architecture, and comic books, Jamie landed on film—not by plan, but by epiphany. He describes it beautifully, realizing that all his interests merged in filmmaking, the perfect cocktail of drawing, sound, emotion, and movement. And thus began the pilgrimage: extra work on Seabiscuit, gigs on War of the Worlds, and a life that kept knocking until the door opened just enough to let the artist through.

But the magic, as it often does, lived in the in-between. While others went to happy hour, Jamie stayed late in the office to write. While his peers chased security in crew roles, he wrestled with Kickstarter campaigns, coordinated sizzle reels (or “proof of concept” pieces, as he prefers), and asked himself the questions that every creative must ask: “Will I do this until I’m sixty and just look back, or will I carve out the time now?” He chose the latter—and Split was born.

There’s something charming about how he talks of making “a cute little bowling movie,” while casually referencing that its short film starred future television stars. It’s clear he walks both worlds with ease: the guy who’s worked on John Wick 2, and the indie soul who still geeks out about local comic shops. He’s aware of the absurdity too: that his film shares its name with M. Night Shyamalan’s thriller. He laughs about mistaken identities, mistaken downloads, and audience confusion, but stands firm. “We were here first,” he says. And in that defiant simplicity lies the heart of a creator.

Jamie’s approach to art is like that of a Zen archer—disciplined but loose, always aiming, never rigid. He offers a quiet but potent kind of wisdom, the kind that doesn’t shout but sticks with you. “If you’re not doing this because you love it, then you’re legitimately a crazy person,” he jokes. And yet, one feels the profound truth in those words. In a world spinning faster each day, where even scripts get locked down like government secrets, Jamie reminds us that what matters is finishing what you start—and doing it with heart.

Like a good film, Jamie Buckner’s journey doesn’t resolve in neat lines. It’s ongoing, filled with projects still to be written, scenes yet to be shot, and audiences still to discover the little movie that could. But what stays with you is not the resume or the name confusion. It’s the voice behind the words, the love behind the lens. He’s not just telling a story—he’s reminding you why stories matter.

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IFH 786: Crafting Authentic Stories from Lady Gaga to Sci-Fi Futures with Kim Ray

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On today’s episode, we welcome the multi-talented Kim Ray, a writer, producer, and director whose career spans reality TV, documentaries, and scripted projects. Best known for her work on the Netflix documentary Gaga: Five Foot Two, Kim’s journey through the industry is an inspiring tale of creativity, resilience, and innovation.

Our conversation begins with Kim’s fascinating experience co-writing West Bank Story, a parody of West Side Story that cleverly blended humor with themes of peace and cultural commonality. As Kim describes, “It was about showing that even in a world full of conflict, there’s so much that connects us.” The project, which gained significant recognition, was a testament to her ability to merge art with meaningful messages.

Kim’s transition into reality television was both unexpected and transformative. While it wasn’t her original focus, she brought her narrative expertise to shows like The X Factor and Kendra on Top. “Reality TV,” Kim explains, “requires storytelling that’s just as nuanced as scripted work. You’re shaping real moments into something cohesive and engaging.” Her work on these projects highlights her adaptability and deep understanding of human emotion.

One of the standout points in Kim’s career was producing Gaga: Five Foot Two. The project offered an intimate glimpse into Lady Gaga’s life, showcasing her vulnerabilities and strength. Kim recounts the challenges of crafting such an unfiltered narrative, saying, “The magic was in the authenticity. Gaga was raw and real, and we wanted viewers to feel like they were walking alongside her.” The minimal crew and close collaboration created an unparalleled connection between the subject and the audience.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kim’s insights into the industry’s evolution are enlightening. She speaks candidly about the systemic challenges women face in Hollywood, sharing how she navigated a landscape often dominated by male voices. Her reflections on the #MeToo movement underscore the importance of platforms like social media for amplifying marginalized voices. “It’s a double-edged sword,” Kim notes, “but it’s also a powerful tool for change.”

Kim’s current project, Violet’s New Life, delves into the futuristic concept of consciousness transfer. The short film and pilot explore what it means to live again in a synthetic body, blending technology and human emotion. As Kim puts it, “It’s not just about immortality—it’s about the psychology of starting over, carrying the weight of one life into another.”

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IFH 783: Phil Proctor: A Journey Through Comedy, Resilience, and the Art of Reality

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The landscape of existence can sometimes feel like a cosmic play—actors shifting between roles, creating stories that ripple through time. On today’s episode, we welcome Phil Proctor, an artist whose life weaves a tapestry of creativity, resilience, and humor. Known for his work with the legendary Firesign Theatre and an illustrious voice acting career, Phil has left an indelible mark on the worlds of comedy, film, and beyond.

Phil Proctor is not merely a performer; he’s a storyteller who transcends mediums. Reflecting on his career, Phil shared how the Firesign Theatre’s surreal humor was designed not only to entertain but to provoke thought. “We were asking, ‘What is reality?’” he explained. “It’s the question you should ask every day when you get out of bed.” These words capture the essence of his work—a blend of laughter and philosophy that challenges conventional perspectives.

Phil described how technology has transformed his craft. From the days of live radio to recording film dialogue remotely, he marveled at the evolution of his industry. With characteristic wit, he recounted a time he dubbed a French comedy for Mel Brooks, only to find the humor lost on American audiences. “The test audience thought we were speaking French!” he laughed. Moments like these underscore Phil’s adaptability and humor in the face of creative challenges.

Phil also opened up about the impact of his voice acting roles, such as his long-running portrayal of Howard DeVille in Rugrats. He reflected on the joy of connecting with audiences worldwide, even decades after the show’s heyday. From cartoons to video games like Assassin’s Creed, his performances have reached far and wide, bridging generational gaps.

One of the most profound parts of our discussion was Phil’s recollection of surviving the Golden Dragon massacre in 1977. Amidst the chaos, he found solace in an unexpected synchronicity: learning that his wife was pregnant with their daughter. “Life has a way of balancing tragedy with joy,” he mused. This event, along with its psychic premonition, became the foundation of his memoir, Where’s My Fortune Cookie?

Phil’s stories often ventured into the metaphysical. He shared how the Firesign Theatre’s comedy sought to “deprogram” audiences from societal conditioning, offering a fresh lens to perceive reality. This philosophy—wrapped in humor—resonates deeply in today’s fast-paced, media-saturated world. “We were making funny connections,” he said, “exercising the brain to see the world anew.”

Beyond his creative endeavors, Phil’s zest for life shines through in his personal anecdotes. Whether reminiscing about working with Mel Brooks or delighting in his grandchildren’s fascination with technology, he embodies a boundless curiosity. His ability to balance the absurd with the profound makes his journey a testament to the power of humor and resilience.

As the episode drew to a close, one thing became clear: Phil Proctor is more than a performer; he is a philosopher of humor, an explorer of reality, and a living reminder of life’s intricate, interconnected dance. His stories inspire us to embrace curiosity, resilience, and a healthy dose of laughter.

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IFH 781: From Pre-Med to Marquee Lights: Jenny Paul’s Journey of Creative Bravery and Storytelling

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Stories are the connective tissue of humanity. They reveal our commonality, our struggles, and our triumphs. And in the vibrant chaos of the world, some individuals rise with a unique ability to live, breathe, and tell these stories—through performance, words, and relentless passion. Today, we welcome Jenny Paul, an actress and producer who has graced both the stage and the screen with her ever-determined spirit. From the thrill of audition buses to the glow of marquee lights, her story is one of discovery, reinvention, and creative bravery.

In her early days, Jenny Paul didn’t always envision a life under the spotlight. A college journey steeped in the sciences and pre-med seemed like the logical path. After all, the family line carried the torch of medicine. But as life often does, the whisper of the theater grew louder in her soul. She described it as the moment where pre-med stress led her to a beautiful refuge—acting. “I realized I didn’t have to help people as a doctor when I could tell stories that connect them to their own humanity.” It’s a revelation that many artists encounter—the power of creation to heal, uplift, and illuminate.

The road to success, however, was neither instant nor smooth. She spoke fondly (and hilariously) of her early audition adventures in New York. Picture this: college weekends spent traveling on the infamous Chinatown bus, a transportation experience where even survival felt uncertain. But grit fuels passion. Jenny’s first big break came with the musical Funny Girl in New York, where she played a role usually reserved for women decades her senior. It was a peculiar but prophetic start, teaching her to embrace any opportunity with both hands and a courageous heart.

Her journey transitioned into film and television, a space where nuance thrives. Acting on stage had taught her to amplify, to project; film taught her the power of subtlety. That lesson came full circle when she landed her role in Jessica Jones. It was a playful audition—Jenny embraced her character’s full fan-girl persona with comic charm. She recalled, “Sometimes you just have to throw yourself into it without overthinking. Be bold, be genuine, and have fun.” Such simplicity in approach often holds the secret to great art.

Beyond acting, Jenny has stepped behind the scenes as a producer. Like many artists, she found herself in a place where waiting for roles felt too passive. Producing, she explained, is about creating opportunities—for herself, for others, and for stories that need to be told. It’s a lesson in creative autonomy and the entrepreneurial spirit that every modern artist must embrace.

Discussed was her upcoming work, the Hulu series The Looming Tower, Jenny’s tone shifted to reverence. Based on true events, the show dramatizes the tension between the FBI and CIA leading up to 9/11, offering a sobering look at miscommunication and its grave consequences. Jenny plays one of the “lemmings,” a young CIA analyst working under questionable leadership. Though her role may offer comic relief, the gravity of the story left its mark. “It’s rare to work on something that feels like it truly matters, that tells a truth the world needs to hear.”

The beauty of Jenny Paul’s story is its relatability. It’s about perseverance in an industry where nothing is guaranteed, about finding fulfillment in both the work and the struggle. She reminds us that life’s bus rides may be bumpy, the rejections many, and the roles unexpected, but the joy is in the doing. In showing up again and again.

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IFH 780: Unforgettable Storytelling: Phillip Andrew on Creativity, Leadership, and Resilience

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On today’s episode, we dive into the fascinating world of creativity, resilience, and the art of storytelling with Phillip Andrew, a multi-talented producer, motivational speaker, and DJ from Los Angeles. From his humble beginnings in Michigan to his relentless pursuit of opportunities in Hollywood, Phillip’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, adaptability, and the enduring impact of great stories.

Phillip reminisced about his early days navigating the entertainment industry, sharing candid insights about how unconventional networking—like a chance encounter on a basketball court—landed him his first job in production. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, he said, “You don’t always know which door will open, but that’s why you keep knocking on as many as possible.” This philosophy underscores the importance of persistence, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

In the heart of Hollywood, Phillip discovered the transformative power of storytelling. He spoke passionately about the evolution of stories—from ancient oral traditions to modern-day cinematic spectacles. Despite technological advancements, Phillip believes the core of storytelling remains unchanged: creating narratives that resonate deeply with people. He emphasized, “It doesn’t matter how advanced the technology is—if the story doesn’t connect, the audience won’t care.”

Phillip’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. From grappling with personal setbacks to navigating the unpredictable nature of film sets, he revealed how these experiences shaped his outlook. He humorously recounted a lesson from the legendary director Wes Craven, who once said, “Who told you things were ever supposed to go as planned?” This nugget of wisdom became a mantra for Phillip, helping him approach obstacles with creativity and a solutions-oriented mindset.

A recurring theme in the conversation was leadership—on set and in life. Phillip shared a story about a showrunner who inspired him by personally crawling under a table to fix a light. This simple act of humility and teamwork left a lasting impression, reinforcing Phillip’s belief that effective leaders must lead by example. He noted, “When people see that you’re willing to do the work too, they’ll want to go the extra mile with you.”

Phillip also touched on the current “golden age of content,” highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it presents. With an explosion of platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu, the barrier to entry has never been lower. However, this democratization of content also means creators face more competition than ever. For Phillip, the solution is simple: focus on the power of the story. “If you don’t have a compelling reason for your audience to care, your content will get lost in the noise,” he warned.

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IFH 779: Breaking the Mold: Lily Yasuda and Michael Wolfe’s Journey to Crafting the Anti-Rom-Com

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On today’s episode, we welcome the dynamic duo, Lily Yasuda and Michael Wolfe, two inspiring filmmakers who have decided to take the road less traveled by creating their own feature film, Like Love. Their journey is one of collaboration, determination, and creativity—filled with moments of laughter and the occasional unexpected hurdle.

From the outset, you’ll sense the chemistry between Lily and Michael. They first crossed paths during their time at Chapman University, bonding over vulnerable and humorous writing assignments in a creative writing class. Their shared passion for storytelling sparked not only a friendship but also a creative partnership. This partnership culminated in the idea for Like Love, a project born out of their desire to challenge traditional romantic comedy tropes. “We wanted to tell a story that feels real and honest,” Lily shares, “about friendships and the complexities of human connection.”

At its heart, Like Love is what they call an “anti-romantic comedy.” Drawing inspiration from classics like When Harry Met Sally, Lily and Michael aim to flip the script on the genre. Instead of perpetuating the myth that friendship between men and women inevitably leads to romance, their film explores the beauty of platonic relationships. As Michael explains, “It’s about two friends trying to fall in love and realizing they’re better off as friends. That’s the kind of story we don’t see enough.”

Their filmmaking journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Crowdfunding has been a pivotal part of bringing Like Love to life. Lily and Michael describe the process as “a full-time job in itself,” requiring not only meticulous planning but also a willingness to be vulnerable and open about their creative vision. They’ve leaned heavily on their network for support, finding generosity in unexpected places. “The community in Boise has been incredible,” says Lily. “People here are so supportive, offering locations, resources, and even homemade meals for the crew.”

Despite the logistical hurdles, their passion for storytelling shines through. Michael, the film’s director, admits that directing a micro-budget feature comes with unique pressures. “We’re all wearing multiple hats,” he notes, “but it’s an amazing experience to work so closely with a team that believes in the project.” Lily, who also stars as the film’s lead, balances her roles as actor, writer, and producer with grace, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in every aspect of the project.

As they reflect on their experiences, one thing becomes clear: Like Love is more than just a film; it’s a testament to the power of community and perseverance. Lily and Michael hope their story inspires other aspiring filmmakers to take the leap. “Making a movie isn’t easy,” Lily acknowledges, “but if you’re passionate about your story, you’ll find a way to make it happen.”

Please enjoy my conversation with Lily Yasuda and Michael Wolfe.

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IFH 775: Breaking Into Hollywood: The Power of Authentic Connections and Creative Vision with Jameson Parker

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On today’s episode, we welcome Jameson Parker, a seasoned producer with roots in theater, who’s climbed the ranks in the world of film and television. As a Development Director at Bright Light Pictures, Jameson has developed a keen eye for projects that align with his passion and resonate with audiences. Starting as an actor, he transitioned to production, taking on the mentorship of industry veteran Sean Williamson, and carving a niche in the independent cinema space.

Jameson shares his journey from pursuing theater in Vancouver to becoming a producer with a versatile portfolio, which includes films like Summer of 84 and the Netflix series Julie and the Phantoms. He explains the art of “breaking in” as an evolving process, emphasizing perseverance and the invaluable nature of mentorship in an industry where relationships shape opportunities. In his case, connecting with Sean was pivotal, as it granted him guidance and resources to navigate the challenging waters of production. As he aptly puts it, “There’s an element of perseverance that permeates every success story—banging your head against the wall until the brick cracks.”

In our conversation, Jameson reflects on the state of Hollywood’s market-driven focus, where franchises and reboots often overshadow fresh, original stories. He believes true creative fulfillment lies in cultivating unique narratives rather than chasing trends. He references his experience with Summer of 84, which drew inspiration from classic thrillers and managed to resonate with audiences without the typical industry formulas. Jameson champions the importance of bringing something authentic to the screen, arguing, “If you chase what’s doing well in the marketplace, you’re always going to be behind the eight ball.”

For Jameson, networking is less about formal events and more about building meaningful relationships. He recalls his serendipitous meeting with writer Matt Leslie at a networking event, which led to the development of Summer of 84. He stresses that genuine connections often lead to more fruitful collaborations than transactional exchanges. This philosophy has carried him through many projects, as he remains committed to developing authentic connections both on and off set.

As the conversation deepens, Jameson delves into the complexities of producing for television versus film. Working with Netflix on Julie and the Phantoms, alongside renowned director Kenny Ortega, has been a “big learning experience” for him. He contrasts this with his independent projects, which allow for more creative control and hands-on involvement. The Netflix series exemplifies the evolving landscape of TV production, where platforms like Netflix provide vast opportunities but also introduce unique challenges due to their expansive, competitive nature.

Jameson also speaks to the behind-the-scenes challenges producers face, especially in managing large teams on set. From navigating egos to ensuring open communication, he explains how these aspects shape the production experience. He acknowledges that problem-solving in production can feel overwhelming but emphasizes the importance of keeping a calm perspective. “If it can be solved with money, it’s not really a problem,” he says, underscoring his pragmatic approach to navigating production obstacles.

In a business defined by collaboration and trust, Jameson has thrived by working with familiar faces, valuing shared experiences over constant change. His career is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and a deep-seated love for storytelling. As he anticipates his next independent film project, he remains committed to blending his studio experiences with his passion for independent cinema.

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