Just Shoot It

Janek Ambros https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4471783/ doesn't use social media for self-promotion. And he tells up and coming filmmakers, you have to be annoying. Because in reality, that's what everyone in this industry is doing, including A-Listers.Besides if you're under 30, you're not supposed to know any better. So swing for the fence!! With a Sundance film under his belt and scores of other, Janek brings a filmmaker-sans-TV-commercial perspective, grit, and tenacity. And Matt and Oren explore his fascinating counterpoint take one how to make a career. Things like what makes a script that gets picked up. And where to start writing -- for character or budget.It's a fact-filled episode overflowing with juicy info!Find Janek on IG: @assemblylineent---Help our Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/JustShootItPodMatt's Endorsement: "Singing In the Rain" https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0045152/Oren's Endorsement: "Gabby's Dollhouse", the movie https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32214143/ and the HBO show "Peacemaker" https

Mercedes Bryce Morgan https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5521959/ talks about building the career that got her "Bone Lake" https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26783625/. From several Marshmello videos, episodes of Stargate Origins, and ten-by-tens, Mercedes has learned a lot.One of her techniques is the pre-pitch meeting. That's a get together (on zoom of course) prior to her pitch. Kind of like a creative brief. And she sees it as an opportunity to find out what they really want. Which is sometimes easier for people to articulate, she learned, as what they don't want.Another is embedding gifs into her shot list and seeing second units not as a budget extra, but as a real cost-saving tool.If you're building a career as a fillmmaker, you won't want to miss out on some pointers that most people don't talk about.---Help our Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/JustShootItPodJoin Matt & Oren at the Just Shoot It mixer! You don't even have to shower come!Free tickets! Wednesday, October 8 · 7 - 10pm PDTLawless Brewing

Matt and Oren reveal their backstory in this collab with G.G. Hawkins and No Film School. https://nofilmschool.com/u/lostingraceland And you won't want to miss what it was like before smartphones , back when there was a barrier to entry to making video or film. It was totally different from today. Or was it? OK today, almost anyone can use a smartphone and AI to create some amazing content.And that's just the opportunity. It may be easier, but it has less value. Meaning most anyone can't make a living as a filmmaker. Or can you?Maybe you can master the multiple tentacles of connections you need to have in order to have visibility to opportunities that level up you career in a meaningful way. And maybe you can build community and know how to warm people up to who you are in a matter of seconds. And that's what this episode is about. Because today it's even more critical to get the attention of people you need to hear you out, when they see thousands j

Tom Morris https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2730235/ joins Carlyn Hudson - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3972277 https://www.instagram.com/carlynhudson to talk about their views on making that signature feature film that everyone dreams of, one that is an iconic piece of IP that launches a Jordan Peele-career.And Oren and Matt dive into what that means when you start wanting to own a house, have kids, and think about college -- not your college tuition, but your kids! On the one hand, a successful freelance career in commercials, can make it all happen. And over 10 years, 15 years or more, it can elevate your directing chops beyond what you could have imagined. On the other hand, it can be the very reason why chasing that feature, the one that finally shows your full skill set and ability, is a financial fantasy. Like, why risk losing work while spending 2, 3, or 10 years to make that feature?Ira Glass preached about how you have to stick it out until your talent matches your taste. But is that even p

Matt & Oren dive into answering your questions. It's a new format and we hope it clicks! And whether it works or not, there's a new way you can let them know.There's questions from early career filmmakers. What is the one piece of gear filmmakers buy early on, but don't need? What's the best way to invest $100 in film gear? How do you write dialog that feels real?And questions about life on set. Like, what's the most stressful part of directing? What does a director actually do once they're on set? And what are some things that go wrong on every shoot?And they round out the episode with some hacks for tackling the toughest production problems.  But most importantly, Matt and Oren are throwing a party. And it's your chance to connect with other filmmakers and let them know what you think! RSVP below!---!!! PARTY INFO !!!Free tickets! Wednesday, October 8 · 7 - 10pm PDTLawless Brewing Co.5275 Craner Avenue Los Angeles, CA 91601RSVP and info at https://events.justshoot

Marvel director Kat Coiro https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0192478 covers everything from working with day players to why directors have to take acting classes. Once an actor herself, Kat has mastered the art of infusing enthusiasm into every set and using that energy to supercharge collaboration. Kat's worn every hat—writer, actor, director, producer, EP, and more. And while CAA found her because of her short film, her deep understanding of each role on set propelled her into a coveted career directing "Marry Me" with Owen Wilson and Jennifer Lopez, "Matlock" with Kathy Bates, Marvel's "She Hulk: Attorney at Law", to name a few. Is there ever over-preparing as a director? Not according to Kat. It's all about putting in the work, asking questions of your showrunner, and really investing into its world. And she doesn't downplay the ability to leverage commercial sensibilities, and pitching with decks and details that can take weeks simply on spec. Join us October 8th for a meetup in @

After an amazing DP/cinematographer has an unfortunate schedule change, Matt & Oren whip up a discussion about social media and listener notes about their websites. And Matt talks about how his LinkedIn post got noticed. And there's a surprising little twist that might make some listeners uneasy.Later, they dig into a listener question. And that leads to some banter about the must haves when you're shooting a commercial on spec. And Matt decodes a list of items that make a compelling spec, especially when you write it yourself.Matt's Endorsement: Fog machines are inexpensive right now.Oren's Endorsement: You can Google how long trailers are before a movie plays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt & Oren discuss the feeling dogging every freelancer: "Will I ever work again?" They dig into who they recommend when they can't take an awesome job, and how that has paid it forward in good ways. Maybe it's all about who you vibe with. But what is that, exactly? And what if a brand or agency does a vibe check on you? Surprisingly, it's like a date, and more of sales pitch so be prepared!But there's a way to show up with a certain enthusiasm for a project and demonstrate a personal connection without sounding like a cold email that falls on its face. This episode is definitely worth a listen if you're trying to rack up more jobs this year!Matt's Endorsement: Deschute's Fresh Squeezed Non-Alcohoilc IPA https://deschutesbrewery.com/products/fresh-squeezed-non-alcoholicOren's Endorsement: Tab Groups in Google Chrome. R-Click on a tab > Add Tab to New Group. Also on Chromium-based browsers like Firefox and Brave. https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/2391819?hl=en&sjid=93242600123

Matt's been getting wrapped up in analytics, and Oren's been updating his reel. So yeah, update your f**king website if you haven't!This week, we get into where to host your portfolio whether you want the best web host or video platform. And we dive into some honest talk about what defines you as a director, because trying to be everything just doesn't work. There are also some hot tips on things you can do to stand out as someone exciting to work with.If you're seriously building a career as a filmmaker, this is a must-listen.---Matt's Endorsement: Watch "The French Connection" (1971) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067116/Oren's Endorsement: Get good at making slide decks because they will help you sell your ideas. And Bob Odenkirk on Mike Birbiglia's Podcast, "Working It Out" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/179-bob-odenkirk-the-art-of-anger-in-comedy/id1515419751?i=1000719445989 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director Emily Elizabeth Thomas joins Matt and Oren to talk about her journey from commercial success to directing vertical series and feature films.Meanwhile, Oren’s been updating his website and shares some valuable insights on what to include in your reel, what to leave out, and why it matters. And that leads into Matt sharing some insightful data on how many views a reel gets per day.Back to Emily—she’s all about making everything feel like a movie, even a vertical series. She shares how she fought for that vision and explains how shooting open gate helped convince producers they could save money doing it her way. And maybe even make more with some luck.At her core, Emily is a craft-driven filmmaker with a passion for detail. She talks about her love for set design and working with artisanal couturiers to find the perfect accessories, like a custom western hat from Austin or hours spent digging through costumes at Warner Brothers.The episode wraps with practical tips on surgically using tools like jibs, S

Jamaal Parham, part of the directing duo Jams and Bash, talks to Oren and Matt about how they approach their business without the cheesiness. From a start working exclusively with Broadway productions, they've become a CAA-recognized brand in sports comedy.Matt discusses how the dream of never looking at a spreadsheet isn’t realistic in filmmaking, or at least not in building a career in it. And Jamaal shares secrets on how they connect with decision-makers through targeted social media strategies that go beyond traditional PR, advertising, or social thinking.**Key lesson:** A lot of directing is really hosting. Don’t get it? Check out this amazing episode!https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1729641/https://www.jamsandbash.com/---Matt's Endorsement: Chris Moran | Creative Breakdowns on TikTok and his tutorials on the Vox aesthetic https://www.tiktok.com/@chrismoran__Oren's Endorsement: order your pet meds from https://discountpetmedication.biz/ and the use Amazon to monitor for deals on what you want, like a Dys

Legendary director Joseph Kahn https://www.josephkahn.com/ talks about his new movie "Ick" https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31795447/. And Matt and Oren get him to share how this creature feature came about as a kid-friendly movie and the challenges he faced in making a script written for a $100 million budget shot during COVID and the WGA & SAG- AFTRA strikes.And Joseph also discusses the difference between working with the best people money can buy, and choosing people who understand you and your unique brand of filmmaking. Plus, he shares his method to becoming the director Taylor Swift or U2 calls. But this winner-takes-all business comes at a cost. Heck, the odds of success as a director are probably lower than becoming the dictator of a country! And Joseph gets real about his own insecurities, despite his mountain of successes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kelly Christensen built a toolkit for crafting a lasting career as a commercial producer. And he shares what directors can do to stand out and keep getting hired. Matt and Oren chat with Kelly about what makes his secret sauce. And you may be surprised to find out about the many layers and why it's different for each person. Sure, collaboration matters. But what does that really look like? What are the nuances of lasting collaboration with agencies and production companies? What role does a producer play in making your life as a director easier? And what can you do to make sure producers recommend you for future gigs?You can find Kelly on Instagram at @kellyman---Matt's Endorsement: The Business podcast about M3GAN 2.0 flop and the Blumehouse slump https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-business/id73330606Oren's Endorsement: Tell your kids about the scary parts of a movie (ask your friends what the scary parts are), before you take your kids to see the movie. And tr

What does cinematic mean to you? Carlyn Hudson https://www.carlynhudson.com/ joins Matt and Oren fresh off completing her latest short, "Waffle".Is cinematic just a slick look? Is it about lighting? Or is it whatever Midjourney gives you when you ask for a cinematic style? It's always a party when these three are together, with lively discussion, interesting perspectives, and free thrown punches. And our partners in banter spar over all the different layers that make cinematic more than any one thing. And how it's different, arguably different, for different people!It all opens into a side discussion about this summer's movies: Jurassic Park, F1, and of course Danny Boyle's "28 Years Later". What do you think about its "Trainspotting" look, jaw-dropping $75 million (no kidding) budget, and how Instagram is shaping believability. You won't want to miss this fun and thoughtful episode!---Matt's Endorsement: Pocket Dispo Lens https://pocketdispo.com/ for your DSLR or mirro

Matt’s back from the Chattanooga Film Festival, and Oren just wrapped a whirlwind gig in Thailand. Jet lag not included. Yay!!! This week, they unpack the age-old question: is it still essential to live in L.A.? Is the cost of living worth it? And what does long-term career sustainability actually look like?It’s an episode about experimentation and pushing boundaries. Matt tested the waters by bringing his kid to a low-key film festival. Before actually trying to juggle parenting, pitching a film, and festival revelry till the sunrises. Meanwhile, Oren pitched against some heavy-hitters to prove he’s ready to play at the next level. Oh, and a producer found Matt because - wait for it - ChatGPT said he was the perfect director for their commercial!!---Get a great deal on Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/shootitjune NEW LINK!! Matt's Endorsement: Make playlists on Spotify related to screenplays and scripts you're writing.Oren's Endorsement: PatchTagger for saving videos by adding tags https://chromew

Matt and Oren dig into the creative choices director's make. And they kick it off by looking at the growing influence of AI on the process. They also tackle casting and why it’s more than just finding the “right” actor. But also, what makes for the right actor in a commercial? Comedic timing, tone, understanding the game, our grasp of something else? They also share how many actors they callback and put on avail. And what happens when an actor crushes the audition but doesn’t book it. Do you tell them?You'll find some tips on how to invite creative collaboration, whether wardrobe, production design, or with your DP, in a way that encourages suggestions for plus-ing the production. But, without sounding like a film school director who doesn't know, or is too afraid, to make choices.---Get a great deal on Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/shootitjune NEW LINK!! Matt's Endorsement: If you have a Loog Guitar for kids https://loogguitars.com/, get a guitar strap. King C. Gillette

The directing duo from "Don't Tell Larry" detail their eight-year journey to turn the phrase, "Don't Tell Larry", into a world, a web series, and feature starring Eg Begley., Jr., Dot-Marie Jones, Patty Guggenheim, and Kiel Kennedy. And they chat with Matt and Oren about how their background in unscripted TV prepared them but also left gaps when it came to making the movie they wanted to make, without EPs steering them off-track.From 300 pitches to turning down lucrative investors, the pandemic, and choosing to shoot in Dallas, the guys explore all the challenges of making an indie film, and adhering to high standards, all while influencers walk away with the fees that filmmakers traditionally could garner from commercial work. And other filmmakers like, Danny Gervitz's film "The Man in the Photo" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6WpwmPe9Ks, "Skinamarink" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APQqilSTxz0 and forgoing distributors and theatrical releases, in favor of going straight to YouTube.Tell them your tho

"Chimp Crazy" is HBO's top-watched documentary. But being from the team that made Tiger King is both a plus and a minus. In this episode, writer, producer, and editor Evan Wise https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2188036/ chats with Matt & Oren about the hurdles they faced and the moment he knew this doc would be good. We explore the importance of personal connection, being open to letting the story evolve during filming, and the role of editors as writers and storytellers in documentary films. Evan also discusses how they found their shadow director, why that was important to getting this doc off the ground. Connect with Evan on Instagram @deathedit---Get a great deal on Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/shootitapr NEW LINK!! Matt's Endorsement: "Mickey 17" https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12299608/Oren's Endorsement: Trader Joe's Patio Potato Chips https://www.traderjoes.com/home/products/pdp/patio-potato-chips-062977 Evan's Endorsement: "Diamond Hands" https://www.imdb.com/title/tt17662108/ Hosted on Aca

Matt and Oren dive into the process of finding the right cinematographer or DP for your project, breaking down key factors like reputation, working methodology, artistry, specialties, reel, website, and even foreign language skills.They also explore how budget impacts these considerations. Like what shifts when you're working with $50K versus $2 million? From personal tastes to professional appearances, this episode takes a deep dive into the nuances of hiring the right visual storyteller for your film or commercial project.---Get a great deal on Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/shootitapr NEW LINK!! Matt's Endorsement: Los Angeles Conservancy's "Last Remaining Seats", a classic vintage film screening series. See "Rope" by Director Alfred Hitchcock at the Academy Museum on original 35mm nitrate.Oren's Endorsement: Oren shows Matt a video on "Generating Crowds with Gen 4 References" https://youtu.be/erNSx-wOuPs?si=qugAONtGmm6wQxu4. And he mentions Runway https://runwayml.com/ and Veo generative AI video

Matt and Oren break down their approach to directing on set—from working with celebrity talent like Neil Patrick Harris to navigating the challenges of directing kids. It's a glimpse into their lives as directors.They also explore how user-generated content and influencers are changing the types of projects advertisers want to create and opening new doors for emerging filmmakers who understand the new landscape.Plus, the guys respond to YouTube comments and discuss how listeners can join the conversation.  ---Get a great deal on Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/shootitapr NEW LINK!! Matt's Endorsement: Captain Disillusion https://www.youtube.com/@CaptainDisillusionOren's Endorsement: 1. Oscar Owen Magic https://www.youtube.com/@Oscar 2. AMEX Delta Reserve card gives you $20 per month for using Uber. And paying for Lyft with the Chase Sapphire earns you 5x miles when traveling to and from airports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.