How The ‘Los Frikis’ Directors Injected Dark Humor, History, and HIV into Their Film

In this episode of No Film School, host GG Hawkins sits down with Robert Schwartzman, producer of The Last Showgirl and co-founder of Utopia, to discuss the evolving landscape of independent cinema. As a filmmaker, distributor, and problem solver, Robert shares insights on how indie filmmakers can take control of their distribution, why the industry is shifting toward self-releasing, and what’s next for Utopia. In this episode, No Film School’s Jason Hellerman and Robert Schwartzman discuss: The evolving landscape of indie film distribution and the role of technology in direct-to-audience releases How Utopia is working to eliminate middlemen and empower filmmakers The importance of theatrical releases for indie films, despite industry shifts The inspiration behind The Last Showgirl and why Las Vegas was the perfect setting How finding creative solutions—from locations to costumes—can elevate a low-budget film Why international filmmakers have a competitive edge in today’s market Memorable Quotes: “I think filmmakers need to also get hip to the idea of like, oh, there's all these places I can sell my film, but I still need to reach them. Like no one's gonna just give me an audience, I need to find them.” (18:35) “The playing field is so level right now, that's what's so exciting about it. Like it's anyone's game. People just have to be willing to play it.” (20:55) “There will come a time when a movie is self-released using these new technologies and it will be nominated for something significant… That’s when people are really going to come around to it.” (22:50) “You’re not going to get everything you want in filmmaking. The key is knowing what you absolutely need and what you can live without.” (51:07) “If you shoot a movie quickly, the opportunity cost for people goes down.” (55:01) Guest: Robert Schwartzman – Producer of The Last Showgirl, co-founder of Utopia, and filmmaker known for Dreamland and The Unicorn. Resources: The Last Showgirl Official Trailer Utopia Distribution AltaVod – Self-Distribute Your Film PowerFlix – Aggregation Services for Indie Filmmakers Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins sits down with writer-director Drew Hancock to discuss his journey to directing his feature debut, Companion. Drew shares how he built his career through persistence, taking creative risks, and, as he puts it, a fair amount of luck. He also reflects on finding success later in his career, how imposter syndrome nearly led him to quit, and the importance of self-awareness for filmmakers navigating the industry. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Drew Hancock discuss: The unconventional path Drew took from being a movie theater employee to a feature director Why Channel 101 played a pivotal role in his development as a filmmaker How Companion started as a writing sample and evolved into a feature film The role of luck and timing in getting a project greenlit in Hollywood Why filmmakers need to continuously create new work rather than banking on a single project Drew’s writing process and how working on multiple projects at once helps combat writers block The importance of self-awareness and confidence in overcoming career obstacles Memorable Quotes: “I mean, I’m an old man, so it’s a long, long, long journey that got me to this place right now. But the beginnings were just… I was a super fan of movies.” (2:32) “I wish I really, really wish that luck didn’t play such a huge part of making entertainment, but yeah, it has a lot to do with timing.” (22:53) “Every couple years, sit down and ask yourself: Are you where you want to be? If you’re not, what can you do to get there? Take stock. Measure the gap. And then do everything you can to close it.” (47:00) “Imposter syndrome is real. I almost gave up before Companion. I really almost did.” (46:02) “Make something. Don’t make it about a film festival or about getting recognition. Make it about something you care about deeply.” (38:51) Resources: Drew Hancock on IMDb Companion Official Trailer Channel 101 – The Filmmaking Community That Helped Shape Drew Hancock Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Ryan Koo bring you a special live report from the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. They explore the energy of the festival, highlight standout films, and dive into the journey of filmmakers who have pushed through industry challenges to bring their visions to the screen. Joining the conversation are the creators behind Didn't Die, a unique take on the zombie apocalypse that blends horror, dark humor, and indie filmmaking ingenuity. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, NFS Founder Ryan Koo, and guests discuss: The evolving landscape of independent cinema at Sundance and what trends are emerging in 2025 How Didn't Die offers a fresh, meta take on the zombie apocalypse through the lens of a struggling podcast host The challenges of making an indie film with a limited budget, including DIY visual effects and multi-hat roles Reflections on how filmmakers navigate festival submissions and distribution The broader state of the film industry and the importance of resilience as an independent filmmaker Memorable Quotes: “I mean, definitely story-wise, what inspired me about working on The Walking Dead was like, my episode had a couple of different storylines that I thought were really sweet… And I think this idea of like a zombie movie that was more about finding meaning through the devastation and darkness was compelling to me.” “It’s a zombie apocalypse, and our protagonist is still recording a podcast. It’s about holding onto what you love, even when the world is falling apart.” “You pull favors, you adapt, and you embrace the chaos. That’s how we made this movie happen.” Guests: Meera Menon – Co-writer and Director of Didn't Die Erica Fishman – Producer of Didn't Die Paul Gleason – Co-writer and Cinematographer of Didn't Die Resources: Sundance 2025 Film Festival Lineup No Film School’s Sundance 2025 Coverage Episode: Invisible Work of Producers Plus Sundance Slate 2025 Sundance 2025: Editor Benjamin Shearn On Using Premiere Pro and Frame.io to Bring 'By Design' to Life The VFX Secrets Behind Lush Sundance Short 'Em & Selma Go Griffin Hunting' Bringing Mexico’s Vibrant Culture to Life in Sundance Short Film 'Susana' Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram 📩 Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman talk with Seth Gordon, the celebrated writer-director behind Back in Action, Horrible Bosses, and The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters. Seth shares the joys and challenges of creating large-scale films, balancing action and comedy, and his insights into leadership and creativity. This episode is packed with practical advice for emerging filmmakers and candid reflections on Seth’s career journey. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and Seth Gordon discuss: How Seth approaches directing large-scale films while staying focused on the story’s essence Why removing distractions is key to immersing yourself in the creative process The importance of starting with the story and building everything else around it Balancing meticulous planning with room for spontaneity and collaboration on set Why aspiring filmmakers should focus on creating something deeply meaningful, rather than chasing external recognition Memorable Quotes: “My phone is always off. I don’t even answer the phone anymore... The interruptions throw me off... What works for me is to disappear into a tiny sort of working environment and then get lost in one detail at a time.” “Make something. Don’t make it about a film festival or about getting recognition. Make it about something you care about deeply.” “It didn't start with a crew of 300 and dealing with the Thames river and weather in England and whatever. It started with a piece of paper and excitement about a story.” Resources: Seth Gordon on IMDb Back in Action Trailer Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins sits down with filmmakers Sarah Mokh, Stephen Cedars, Benji Kleiman, and Imran J. Khan to discuss navigating the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival. With insights from seasoned festival veterans, this episode offers practical advice and candid reflections on how to make the most of a festival experience, whether you’re a first-timer or a returning filmmaker. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and guests discuss: The importance of preparation before attending a festival and knowing how to pitch yourself and your project. How to pace yourself and avoid burnout over the course of a week-long festival. The value of publicists in boosting your film's visibility and managing PR. Stories and lessons from navigating previous festivals, including Sundance and SXSW. Audience engagement strategies to make your screenings successful. Memorable Quotes: Stephen Cedars: “South by Southwest is the most fun film festival in the entire world… It’s your first time, and it’ll be your only first time here.” (25:02) Imran J. Khan: “Any movie, even a feature, is still kind of just an audition for another thing… You have to figure out what’s next and be ready to talk about it.” (17:10) Benji Kleiman: “You need to have some talking points ready—what do you want people to say about your movie? That’s what’s going to make it into print.” (41:10) Guests: Sarah Mokh: Filmmaker behind Cigarettes, premiering in the SXSW Independent Pilot Competition. Stephen Cedars: Co-director of Snatchers, a horror-comedy that premiered at SXSW. Benji Kleiman: Co-director of Snatchers and veteran of multiple SXSW screenings. Imran J. Khan: Director of Mustache, winner of the SXSW Audience Award. Resources: SXSW Film Festival Lineup Follow I Really Love My Husband: Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the No Film School podcast, hosts GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman discuss the devastating fires in Los Angeles and their impact on the film industry. They share personal experiences of evacuation and the emotional toll of the crisis, emphasizing the importance of community support and resilience. The conversation highlights the need for filmmakers to prioritize their safety and mental health while navigating the uncertain future of the industry. They also explore the power of storytelling as a means of processing trauma and fostering empathy in challenging times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins speaks with the filmmakers behind two impactful films, Hazard and Studio One Forever. Writer-director Eddie Mensore shares the journey of creating Hazard, an indie drama about the opioid crisis in Appalachia, and how leaving LA led to the film's 40-theater release. Later, Marc Saltarelli discusses the acclaimed LGBTQ+ documentary Studio One Forever, exploring its historical significance and enduring legacy. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Eddie Mensore, and Marc Saltarelli discuss: How Eddie’s move away from LA revitalized his career and allowed him to focus on meaningful indie films The challenges and triumphs of making Hazard, a deeply personal story about the opioid crisis Marc’s experience documenting LGBTQ+ history through Studio One Forever and the film’s resonance in today’s political climate Advice for filmmakers navigating the industry outside of traditional Hollywood structures Memorable Quotes: “As an independent filmmaker, it’s not about what’s the most passionate project you want to make. It’s about which one can you physically make.” “I hope that the younger generation will take a little bit of time out from TikTok and watch these 90 minutes and realize what we went through—and what’s at stake.” “I had to take a few steps backward, I believe that I’m ultimately taking 10 steps forward.” Resources: Hazard Official Website Hazard Theatrical Release Studio One Forever Official Trailer STUDIO ONE FOREVER is the untold story of America’s first gay disco, a kaleidoscopic excursion into LGBTQ+ history through the lens of this groundbreaking club. Directed by Marc Saltarelli, the film features interviews with Chita Rivera, Bruce Vilanch, Lance Bass, and others. Eddie Mensore on IMDb Marc Saltarelli on IMDb Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman chat with John August, an acclaimed screenwriter, podcaster, and software developer. Known for films like Big Fish and Aladdin, as well as co-hosting Scriptnotes with Craig Mazin, John August discusses his career, the evolution of screenwriting tools, and how he's simplifying life for writers with his app, Highland. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and John August discuss: John’s journey from journalism major to one of Hollywood’s most recognized screenwriters How working across different mediums—from novels to musicals—has shaped his storytelling The philosophy behind creating Highland, a screenwriting app designed to keep writers in the flow Practical advice for writers starting out in today’s industry Memorable Quotes: “Your ability to have an idea but then actually articulate the idea… to yourself, to your team, and to the audience is so fundamental and so important.” “When I see something in the world that bothers me, I try to fix it. My instinct is to get involved and figure it out.” “A screenplay is a luxury. You know you have about 120 pages. There are constraints, and those constraints help you figure out what’s important.” Resources: John August on IMDb Highland App Scriptnotes Podcast Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman sit down with acclaimed director James Mangold to dive into the making of his latest film, A Complete Unknown. Known for iconic works like Logan and Ford v Ferrari, Mangold shares deep insights into his creative process, the importance of preparation, and how he navigates the complexities of storytelling. This holiday special offers invaluable lessons for filmmakers at every level. In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and James Mangold discuss: How Mangold approached depicting Bob Dylan’s relationships with iconic figures like Woody Guthrie and Johnny Cash The value of mentorship in filmmaking and how Alexander Mackendrick influenced Mangold’s career Finding the balance between preparation and flexibility when directing Mangold’s advice for capturing subtext and the unspoken dynamics between characters The art of juxtaposition and how to craft impactful scene transitions Memorable Quotes: “You come to the set with a plan, but your actors are gonna add a lot, and you don’t want to be so slavish, so enslaved by your plan that you feel lost if an idea comes up with one of the actors that undermines the plan you came with.” “The point for the director is to make everything look like you planned it—even if you didn’t.” “What is the scene about, and what are the beats I must make sure the audience sees? Not lines, but what’s unsaid—the subtext, the human thought behind the eyes.” Resources: James Mangold on IMDb Microbudget Workshop with GG Hawkins Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, Jason Hellerman interviews Tyler Nielsen and Michael Schwartz, the dynamic directing duo behind the bold and provocative film Los Frikis. Known for their previous success with Peanut Butter Falcon, Tyler and Michael take listeners on a journey into the making of their latest project—a darkly comedic and deeply human tale about the Los Frikis generation in 1990s Cuba. The film explores themes of rebellion, freedom, and survival, centering on punks who willfully injected HIV to escape oppression. In this episode, No Film School’s Jason Hellerman, Tyler Nielsen, and Michael Schwartz discuss: How Tyler and Michael transitioned from Peanut Butter Falcon to Los Frikis The challenge of balancing dark humor with historical and cultural authenticity Why the directors learned Spanish to ensure authenticity in directing Cuban actors Their approach to punk rock aesthetics, both musically and visually, in the film Practical advice for filmmakers tackling deeply unconventional and emotional stories Memorable Quotes: “Punk rock is choosing freedom and choosing, like, your reality, regardless of the authorities or the powers that be.” “If you task the audience with remembering 10 things, they might remember the wrong five. So we focused on the five things that mattered most.” “We really just try to set a vibe. The vibe matches the story. And then we invite people to bring themselves to it.” Resources: Microbudget Workshop with GG Hawkins Tyler Nielsen IMDb Michael Schwartz IMDb Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices