VFX for Indies Podcast

For independent filmmakers, navigating the challenges of using visual effects (VFX) can be a daunting task. This podcast series spotlights independent filmmakers who have dipped their toes (or jumped head-first) into the world of visual effects, and explores their challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned through the process. Hosted by Foxtrot X-Ray’s founder and “chief pixel pusher” Paul DeNigris, who brings to the conversation 25 years of experience in both independent filmmaking and visual effects.

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The Secret Weapon of Indie Filmmakers: Unraveling the Use of VFX in 'The Last Deal'

Ever wondered about the gritty intricacies of indie filmmaking? We're pulling back the curtain on that world with this engaging chat with the dynamic duo behind the crime thriller, 'The Last Deal'. Editor Ryan Liebert, who has come a long way from self-funded films, shares his journey from no-budget indies to editing a feature with Hollywood icon Nicolas Cage. Then writer-director Jonathan Salemi gives us a walkthrough of how he developed the concept of 'The Last Deal' based upon the resources he had.

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The Dark Divide: VFX and the Art of Indie Filmmaking with Director Tom Putnam

Fasten your seatbelts, film enthusiasts! This episode is a rare treat as we sit down with the brilliant director Tom Putnam for a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at his latest feature film, 'The Dark Divide.' He reveals the highs and lows of shooting in remote wilderness locations, managing a star-studded cast, and the essential role that visual effects played in bringing the story to life.

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From T2 to Indie Film: Behind the Neo-Noir Thriller Proof Sheet with Richard Kilroy and Keith Clark

When a director like Richard Kilroy goes from creating matte paintings for the visual effects of some of the biggest movies of all time like Terminator 2 and Titanic, to directing his own indie thriller, you know there will be some inspiring visual effects and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories. Richard and his editor Keith Clark join host Paul DeNigris in discussing the magic behind their indie neo-noir Proof Sheet.

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No Budget Film School with Indie Producer Mark Stolaroff

Can you imagine crafting remarkable stories through the lens of a low-budget camera and yet producing visually stunning effects that hold the audience spellbound? Our guest, Mark Stolaroff, a seasoned indie producer and founder of No Budget Film School, is a maestro at this. The magic of his DIY filmmaking journey, from Texas college days to his stint with Next Wave Films, is something that will inspire both seasoned filmmakers and aspirants.

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Behind the Lens: The Impact of VFX on Indie Film Narratives with Peter Paul Basler

Get ready for a deep-dive into the world of independent filmmaking with Peter Paul Basler, a talented director and filmmaker whose craft is steeped in the magical realm of visual effects. Peter shares stories of the challenges he faced creating crowd replication on a sports movie and the complexities of filming dynamic scenes on ice. Join us as we get a peek behind the lens, revealing how VFX is shaping the way directors create gripping cinematic realities that captivate audiences.

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Realistic Action Movie VFX with Frank Ziede and Corey Gilbert

Ever wonder how independent filmmakers navigate the maze of creating compelling films on a budget? Join us on a captivating journey with filmmakers Frank Ziede and Corey Gilbert, as they dissect their creative process and share the highs and lows of independent filmmaking. From their shared adoration for Michael Mann's cinematic masterpiece "Heat", to the trials and triumphs of creating their own digital assets in projects like Robbed, Black, Volition, and Exile, these filmmakers reveal the in-depth process behind their art.

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Bridging Hip-Hop and Visual Effects: The Journey of VFX Guru JR Strickland

Get ready to explore the world of visual effects in hip-hop music videos, the role of real-world references in VFX, and how to get the most bang for your buck in VFX. We do a deep dive into the creation of the 'Kobe With the Fro' music video, revealing the techniques employed and the critical role of collaboration in the process.

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Fluorescent Beast: A Deep Dive into Indie Film and Visual Effects with Filmmaker Paul Osborne

Get ready for an intriguing conversation with the celebrated writer and director, Paul Osborne. As we traverse his professional journey, we find ourselves in the heart of indie filmmaking, where passion meets creativity on a budget. Learn how Paul transitioned from the production department and carved his own path in the world of independent crime thrillers. Listen as we explore the making of his films like the dark comedy Fluorescent Beast and the recent Cruel Hearts.

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Indie Horror VFX: A Deep Dive with 'Kill Her' Director Robyn August

Get ready to dive into the world of indie film with our guest, Robyn August. Robyn is the director of the darkly comedic slasher film 'Kill Her', and in our conversation, he pulls back the curtain on the steps he took to bring this film to life. We explore his unconventional start in the industry, the inspiration he drew from Mark Duplass' SXSW keynote speech, and how he turned the tables on the classic slasher film setup. Robyn also shares his experiences in creating his first feature 'Party With Me' and the unexpected twists that took 'Kill Her' on its unique path.

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From Script to Post: Inside the VFX Process with Joe Russo and Chris LaMont

Join us as we pull back the curtain on the world of filmmaking, with the talented writer-producer duo, Joe Russo and Chris LaMont, as our guides. Imagine sharing a space with the pioneers behind the Bruce Willis action movie, Hard Kill and the spine-chilling Netflix horror, The Inheritance. The journey gets even more exciting as we traverse their career paths, delve into their successful partnership, and unravel the process that led them to triumph on the Blood List, a compilation of the year's best horror scripts, no less. It's a raw, unfiltered glimpse into Joe's transformation from a development executive to a creator, their on-set experiences, and much more.

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Creating a Sci-Fi Action Comedy: Max Reload and the Nether Blasters

Today we're pulling back the curtain on the world of indie filmmaking with our special guests, Scott and Jeremy, the innovative masterminds behind the sci-fi action comedy, Max Reload and the Nether Blasters. Embark with us on a journey that takes us from the spark of an idea for a small indie sci-fi film for Comic-Con, to the successful production of their own short film. Scott and Jeremy's passion and dedication to their craft is palpable throughout our conversation, as they reveal their unique approach to film development, their love for geeky cinema and how they have shaken up the firearms industry with their work.

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Nova: Using VFX and Practical Makeup to Bring an Innovative Horror Sci-Fi Short to Gory Life

Ever wondered how the movie magic of low budget indie films comes to life? Join us as we pull back the curtain on the award-winning sci-fi horror short film NOVA. Our esteemed guests for this enlightening chat include the brilliant minds behind NOVA: Kelly Kula, Miguel Amodio, David McAbee, and David Smith. They share their incredible journeys in the film industry, fascinating experiences on the set of NOVA, and current projects that are sure to pique your interest.

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Forever Home: Creating Horror Comedy Magic on a Shoestring Budget

Ready to peek behind the curtain of indie filmmaking and visual effects? Your guides for this backstage tour are none other than Sean Oliver and Drew Latham, the masterminds behind the hilarious and spine-tingling horror comedy, Forever Home. Promise us your attention and we’ll reward you with a treasure trove of anecdotes, experiences, and the duo’s description of the creative process—starting from a simple joke about being stuck with ghosts in a haunted house to the execution of a script on a shoestring budget.

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