The State of Spec Scripts, ‘The Substance’ & Panama Filmmaking

The O-1 visa, also known as the "artist visa," is a crucial step for filmmakers and creative professionals aiming to establish their careers in the U.S. Designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in their fields, the application process can be daunting. This episode offers insights into what it takes to qualify, how to strengthen your application, and common challenges faced by those seeking an O-1. Whether you're in the middle of applying or just starting out, this episode provides a roadmap for navigating the process.   Alabama Blonde is a casting director, costume designer, and performance coach originally from Australia. Now based in Los Angeles, she has navigated the O-1 visa process twice, ultimately securing a green card. Alabama’s multidisciplinary career spans various creative roles, giving her unique insights into the challenges of obtaining visas as an artist working across multiple fields.   Julia Zanin de Paula is a Brazilian filmmaker, director, and editor currently based in New York. With a background in horror films, including her notable short Mother of Monsters, Julia has successfully transitioned from a student visa to an O-1 artist visa. She offers valuable advice on gathering press, awards, and recommendations to strengthen her application.   Sneha Mendis is a producer and screenwriter from India, currently in New York, and in the midst of applying for her O-1 visa. With a background in production and development, Sneha shares her experience of building a case for the visa while working in various roles across film sets in the U.S.   In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman speak with filmmakers Alabama Blonde, Julia Zanin de Paula, and Sneha Mendes to discuss: What qualifies as “extraordinary ability” and how to demonstrate it in your visa application The key documents and evidence required to strengthen your case, including press coverage, awards, and work offers The emotional challenges of navigating the visa process and finding support while applying Common misconceptions about the O-1 visa and why it’s not as "easy" as some think Financial considerations: the costs of legal fees, recommendations, and union approvals     Memorable Quotes: “I think being extraordinary is having something that sets you apart from everyone who's doing the thing that you do.” (15:05) “You know what happens when you're a filmmaker and you are starting your career? You're couch surfing. You know, it's not always easy.” (24:10) “They can't say Julia will be extraordinary. They have to say Julia is extraordinary right now, and she will be extraordinary in the US.” (25:56) “You've got to be a little insane to do the O1 visa. You've got to be a little delusional. Because if you don't go all in, you're not going to get it.” (32:34) If you have a long-term project that the producer has never encountered your visa and has never gone through human resources with your kind of visa, they might not be down to do it.” (43:22) “It doesn't get easier once you get it. It's just a constant struggle to grow in your career.” (44:20)   Mentioned: Follow Sneha Mendes on Instagram   Sneha’s website   Sneha on IMDb   Follow Julia Zanin de Paula on Instagram   Julia’s website   Julia on IMDb   Follow Alabama Blonde on Instagram   Strike the Blonde Casting on Instagram     Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/   Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool   Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool   YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As AI continues to reshape creative industries, video editing is undergoing a major transformation. Tools like Eddie AI are making the editing process faster, more efficient, and more accessible to filmmakers. By acting as a storytelling partner, AI can quickly generate rough cuts, find key moments in footage, and even suggest alternative storylines, all while freeing up creatives to focus on the art of storytelling. This episode explores how AI is changing the landscape of post-production, addressing both the excitement and concerns about its growing role in filmmaking. Shamir Allibhai is the co-founder and CEO of Eddie AI, an innovative tool designed to assist filmmakers in streamlining the video editing process. With a background in documentary filmmaking and production work at the BBC, Shamir transitioned into tech to solve the workflow challenges he encountered in the field. His passion for storytelling drives his mission to use AI as a tool to empower creators, making the process of crafting stories more efficient and accessible to all.  Jourdan Aldredge is the tech editor at No Film School, with years of experience covering filmmaking tools, techniques, and trends. A filmmaker and writer himself, Jourdan brings a unique perspective on how technology intersects with storytelling.    In today’s episode, No Film School’s Gigi Hawkins speaks with Jourdan Aldredge and Shamir Allibhai to discuss: The evolution of video editing and how AI tools can help streamline the process How Eddie AI functions as a "storytelling partner" for filmmakers, not just an editing tool The iterative nature of filmmaking and how AI can aid in refining the story during production Addressing fears around AI in creative industries, including concerns about replacing human creativity How AI tools can save time and focus more energy on the craft of storytelling The future of AI in film and how it can democratize storytelling     Memorable Quotes: “I have this aspiration that more people can tell better stories. And I want to help bring those untold stories out.” (5:04) “Hey, let's find the most important sound bites on these topics, let's start creating a rough cut, but also, hey, you also need 10 TikToks.” (16:58) “Imagine if production and post-production weren't the siloed steps. What if they could operate in tandem in a similar sense to an agile workflow?” (20:36) “I think with every technology we've observed, they've actually led to an increase in productivity or creativity.” (24:13) “I truly believe that a lot of these tools are like bicycles for the mind.” (36:03)   Mentioned: Eddie AI   Jourdan Aldredge's article about Eddie AI   Follow Jourdan on LinkedIn   Follow Shamir on X   Shamir on IMDb   Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/   Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool   Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool   YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do documentary films inform the way we approach narrative filmmaking? What does it mean to care for your mental health in an industry that thrives on constant creativity and long hours? How do documentary editors navigate the emotional toll of handling sensitive, often traumatic stories? In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with editor Kait Plum to discuss: Doing a test scene before becoming the editor of Bad Shabbos The difference between editing doc and editing narrative Editing a film with many characters  The benefits of doing test screenings for comedy  Facing difficult footage when editing a documentary  The importance of setting boundaries and taking breaks Using the term “participant” instead of “subject” in documentary filmmaking What it was like to work on the doc, Mediha Why networking and mentorship are crucial for aspiring editors Memorable Quotes “Working in documentary is so much work. Working in narrative was just fun because everything is there and you have a script.” [5:01] “We are looking at a lot of harrowing stuff on repeat and having to internalize that.” [30:55] “I know a lot of fellow documentary editors who deal with depression and anxiety on a regular basis.” [31:02] “The number one thing in the film industry is to network.” [42:56] Links: Bad Shabbos Mediha  Follow Kait on IG  Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As streaming reshapes the industry, pilot season is a thing of the past, leaving creatives to navigate constant demands and year-round pitching. How do filmmakers find balance when the lines between work and rest blur? And how can unexpected pivots lead to more meaningful projects? This episode explores staying resilient in a world without structure, featuring Max Lugavere's decade-long journey with Little Empty Boxes, a deeply personal documentary about his mother's battle with dementia that evolved in ways he never expected.   Max Lugavere is a filmmaker, health journalist, and New York Times bestselling author. After his mother’s diagnosis with Lewy body dementia, Max chronicled her experience in Little Empty Boxes. The film, which took over a decade to complete, shifted from an investigative piece to an intimate portrayal of love, loss, and resilience. In today’s episode, No Film School’s Gigi Hawkins speaks with Jason Hellerman, Max Lugavere and Chris Newhard to discuss: The death of pilot season and how streaming has transformed the TV landscape The endless cycle of pitching and the impact on writers’ lives Finding balance between personal life and an unpredictable film industry. How unexpected creative pivots can lead to more meaningful work. Max Lugavere’s personal journey documenting his mother’s battle with dementia in Little Empty Boxes Chris Newhard’s role in reshaping Little Empty Boxes through fresh eyes, helping it evolve into a deeply emotional and impactful documentary   Memorable Quotes: “The thing with pilot season not existing is interesting because you still have network TV, right? Network TV still generally functions the way it always has, except for it doesn't embrace the buying and research and development behind pilot season anymore.” [5:36] “The anxiety of pitching year-round is that you're also assuming these execs are reading year-round. They need a break too.” [9:03] “There were likely overlapping skills that I had learned as a short form content creator that could be applied to long form documentary filmmaking, but of course the amount of money and time and personnel required to create a feature length documentary… it's so different.” [26:28] “Being in front of the camera allowed me access to some moments that I think you probably wouldn't have been able to catch on film had I not actually had been there.” [41:04] “I just simply found that going with the emotion instead of trying to fight the tide was more beneficial for me.” [53:24] “He spent a lot of time and a lot of money trying to make this movie happen. And the first thing I did is I deleted it.” [55:42]   Mentioned: Max Lugavere on Instagram   Little Empty Boxes website   Max Lugavere’s website   The Genius Life podcast   Max Lugavere’s Books   Chris Newhard’s website   Chris Newhard on Instagram   Jason Hellerman on IMDb   Jason’s library of content on No Film School   Jason on Instagram   Jason on X   KYNO editing tool   Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/   Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool   Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool   YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Selling a script can feel like a distant dream, but the process is very much alive. From using platforms like The Black List to writing query letters and building personal connections, breaking into the industry is challenging but not impossible. Plus, we explore the rise of the Panamanian film industry, how it has evolved, and what it takes to make a mark in a smaller but growing market.  Delfina Vidal is a Panamanian filmmaker known for her documentaries. She has contributed significantly to the growing Panamanian film industry, focusing on telling stories that resonate with local and international audiences. Arianne Benedetti is a producer and key figure in the Panamanian film scene. She is instrumental in the development of Panama’s cinematic landscape, working on projects that showcase the country’s cultural and artistic diversity. Maria Isabel Burnes is involved in promoting the Panamanian film industry, playing an essential role in nurturing emerging filmmakers and helping develop a vibrant film culture in Panama. In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with Jason Hellerman and filmmakers from Panama Delfina Vidal, Arianne Benedetti and Maria Isabel Burnes to discuss: How to break into the industry by selling or optioning scripts The importance of getting your work out into the world and building a community around it The Substance, the film starring Demi Moore, Dennis Quaid and Margaret Qualley, written and directed by Coralie Fargeat What emerging filmmakers in Panama are doing to grow their film industry Strategies to create universal stories that can travel beyond local markets Why female filmmakers are thriving in Panama’s expanding film scene Memorable Quotes: "You have to get your story out into the world. You have to be willing to hear the sometimes harsh feedback that these websites deliver.” [05:25] "Don't stop writing, because maybe the main thing here is: one script can open a couple doors, two scripts can open more, three, you know, onward and upward, but you're gonna need scripts." [16:34] “It's not just about how great your script is, but how marketable it is. Who sees that they can make money from it? Is this some material that I can get something in return for?” [20:15] “It’s more common to be on an NFL roster than it is to be a working screenwriter in Hollywood.” [26:21” “When you're going to work with kids, make sure you have a lot of time before set so they can relate to you and feel very comfortable with you.” [59:02] “Always, always prepare for the worst. Prepare your coworkers for the worst. Prepare your actors for the worst. Prepare the location that you're working in for the worst.” [1:03:07] Mentioned: Jason Hellerman on IMDb Jason’s library of content on No Film School Jason on Instagram Jason on X Delfina Vidal on IMDb Arianne Benedetti on IMDb Maria Isabel Burnes on IMDb The Black List Stage 32 Roadmap Writers Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/   Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool   Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool   YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Filmmaking isn’t just about making a great film—it’s about getting that film seen. With traditional distribution models crumbling, independent filmmakers are finding new ways to connect directly with audiences. This episode explores how the indie film landscape is shifting, with filmmakers taking control of their own distribution, marketing, and audience-building strategies. Whether you’re a first-time filmmaker or a seasoned pro, this episode will inspire you to think outside the box and embrace a more grassroots approach to getting your work into the world. Jon Reiss is a filmmaker, author of the book Think Outside the Box Office, and a media strategist who runs 8 Above, a company that creates custom distribution strategies for indie films. He has consulted with filmmakers and organizations worldwide including The Gotham, IDA, and Film Independent, and has led workshops on distribution and marketing through his 8 Above Distribution Lab. Reiss is currently producing a documentary on robotic performance artist Mark Pauline, and is producing the second season of a podcast, Plantscendence, about people’s psychedelic experiences. He has recently launched a Substack focused on indie film distribution and marketing. Annamaria Sofillas, a development executive and producer, is the Director of Content at Kino Lorber’s MHz SVOD. She is the lead producer of the documentary "I'm “George Lucas": A Connor Ratliff Story, which premiered at Slamdance ’24 and received theatrical exhibition nationwide through Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas, with digital distribution by Grasshopper Film. Annamaria was instrumental in building NBCUniversal's Seeso and Gimlet Media's scripted division, where she led over 25 long-form television series and 30 stand-up specials, including the GLAAD Award-nominated Take My Wife and BAFTA Award-nominated Flowers. Scott Monahan, the filmmaker behind Anchorage, has been candid about his experience with self-distribution, highlighting the challenges and successes of taking control of a film’s release. Glen Reynolds, founder of Circus Road Films, is a producer rep and festival advocate who helps indie filmmakers navigate distribution and find the right partners to bring their projects to audiences. In this roundtable discussion, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with Jon Reiss, Annamaria Sofillas, Scott Monahan, and Glen Reynolds to discuss: Why hybrid distribution is essential for indie filmmakers today How film festivals and events can help grow your audience Why setting clear release goals is crucial for your film’s success How building your audience starts long before your film's release Real-world examples of filmmakers using grassroots promotion and festival tours Why filmmakers are taking control of their own marketing and outreach strategies How indie filmmakers are embracing a punk rock mentality to bypass traditional distribution models Links: Learn more about Scott Monahan Learn more about Glen Reynolds Follow Annamaria Sofillas on Instagram Buy or rent I’m “George Lucas”: A Connor Ratliff Story on Amazon/Apple I'm "George Lucas": A Connor Ratliff Story Website Follow I’m “George Lucas” on Instagram Follow I’m “George Lucas” on Facebook Follow I’m “George Lucas” on X 8 Above with Jon Reiss Substack 8 Above website Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagery plays a crucial role in filmmaking, shaping how a story visually unfolds. This element must be integrated into the scriptwriting process, rather than being left for production. With fall film festivals in full swing, indie filmmakers are not only focused on storytelling but also on the challenges of navigating the competitive market and selling their films. A strong visual narrative can make all the difference when it comes to standing out and securing distribution deals. Director Niclas Larsson’s feature film Mother, Couch! brings an intriguing mix of surrealism and family drama to the screen. Premiering at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, this film stars Ewan McGregor and explores the strange dynamic of a mother refusing to leave a couch in a furniture store. Its unique visual storytelling and offbeat premise are sure to leave an impression.   In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with Jason Hellerman and Niclas Larsson to discuss: Why memorable imagery in scripts is key to creating impactful films The challenges of today’s film festival market and indie acquisitions Niclas Larsson’s unique creative process and his “Storm Book” How the physical layout of Mother, Couch! plays a critical role in the story's themes Why sticking to your gut and vision is essential in the post-production process   Memorable Quotes: "Imagery is something that should go hand in hand with filmmaking." [1:55]  "We're missing images right from the core. We're relying too much on cinematographers or directors to find them later." [5:08] "If you can master the short form, if you can really pay attention to every single second of what you're doing and the importance of every second." [24:23] "Everything we do in scene one to nine needs to be confused, it needs to resemble or picture, convey confusion and displacement." [30:12] "You make movies for other people—the real people. A singular vision is supposed to be criticized." [01:04:37] "The level of filmmaking has declined and is declining rapidly. And we need to stay strong, giving an adult audience bang for their buck, because that's our job." [01:04:56] Mentioned Jason Hellerman on IMDb Jason’s library of content on No Film School Learn more about Mother, Couch! on IMDb Niclas Larsson on IMDb Follow Niclas on Vimeo Follow Niclas Larsson on Instagram   Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/   Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool   Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool   YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actor Saoirse Ronan recently revealed that she is halfway through writing a short film that she plans to direct— and it feels so relatable. It reminds us that creative struggles are universal, no matter who you are. But being halfway through is not a failure but a part of the journey. Tune in to know what to do to reach the finish line. In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman and guest Patrick Walsh discuss: Saoirse Ronan is halfway through writing a short film she plans to direct  The relatable struggle of getting stuck halfway through a project Outlining and having a clear ending in mind to avoid getting stuck in the middle of a writing project Actors transitioning to directing and the unique perspective they bring The value of grants, labs, and workshops for filmmakers to get support and feedback The list of grants and labs that No Film School has launched on its website The recent positive performance of films at the box office Patrick’s journey into editing, starting from film studies Patrick’s experience of destination editing for the film The Uninvited Technical challenges and workflow of remote editing Memorable Quotes “I do think short films are coming back to Hollywood.” [03:03]  “Don’t start writing something you don’t absolutely know how it ends. It’s not worth cranking out 100 final draft pages if you don’t know what happens in the last four.” [3:39]   “Labs beget labs, just as festivals beget festivals.” [15:50] “These grants are that stepping stone that maybe you didn’t know you needed.” [15:03] “Seeing these movies do well has been a strong indicator that movies are back, and original ideas with strong genres and points of view have a viable place in the marketplace.” [21:49]  “It’s been good to see Hollywood bounce back a little bit from the strikes and from the MPTP not paying writers and actors what they deserve.” [23:22]  “Films aren’t finished. They’re abandoned.” [51:33] Links: Patrick Walsh Website  Follow Patrick Walsh on IG Grants and Labs List   Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter  https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool 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, GG Hawkins interviews Ryan Thomas, the cinematographer, and Dan Edwards, the colorist, of the film 'I Really Love My Husband'. They discuss the process of color grading and the importance of early collaboration and communication between the director, DP, and colorist. They emphasize the need for budgeting for color grading and creating a LUT (lookup table) before shooting to establish the desired look of the film. They also discuss the dangers of editing in log and the importance of developing a shared vision and trust between the creative team. In this conversation, Dan, GG Hawkins, and Ryan discuss the importance of color grading in filmmaking and how it can enhance the storytelling process. They talk about the role of color in creating a specific mood and atmosphere, as well as the challenges and considerations when working with different skin tones. They also touch on the importance of communication and collaboration between the director, DP, and colorist, and the use of visual references to convey desired looks. The conversation concludes with advice for emerging filmmakers interested in color grading. Takeaways Early collaboration and communication between the director, DP, and colorist is crucial for achieving the desired look of the film. Budgeting for color grading is important to ensure that there is enough time and resources for the process. Creating a LUT before shooting can help establish the look of the film and avoid surprises in the final grade. Editing in log can limit creativity and make it difficult to achieve the desired look of the film. Developing a shared vision and trust between the creative team is essential for a successful color grading process. Color grading plays a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling process by creating a specific mood and atmosphere. Working with different skin tones requires careful consideration and communication to achieve the desired look. Collaboration and communication between the director, DP, and colorist are essential for a successful color grading session. Visual references can be used to convey desired looks and facilitate effective communication. Investing in a comfortable and well-equipped color grading environment can enhance the client's experience and trust in the process. For emerging filmmakers interested in color grading, it is recommended to seek out reliable learning resources and invest in a calibrated display for accurate color representation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world of filmmaking is full of challenges, from industry rejection to personal setbacks. Yet, for many independent filmmakers, these obstacles become opportunities for growth and perseverance. This episode explores how passion, persistence, and a refusal to give up can turn seemingly insurmountable odds into career-defining moments. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned professional, the story of how Nadine Crocker made her mark in the industry is sure to inspire. Nadine is a filmmaker, actor, and mental health advocate whose latest feature, “Continue,” is based on her own struggles with depression and suicide. The award-winning drama tells the story of a woman who, after a failed suicide attempt, is taken to a mental institution where she finds unexpected friendships, love, and a new purpose. Release by Lionsgate during Suicide Awareness Month, the film has garnered critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of mental health struggles. Nadine not only wrote, directed, and produced “Continue,”  but also stars in it, bringing an intensely personal narrative to life. After years of being typecast and facing rejection, she took control of her career. In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with Nadine Crocker to discuss: Being dropped by her reps shortly after having her son—and how it led her to make “Continue” independently. Breaking free from being typecast and proving herself as a writer, director, and producer. Balancing waitressing and raising a newborn while working on her first feature film. Securing financing through personal savings and a small group of supportive investors. Deciding to stop waiting for permission and create her own opportunities. How “Continue” became a movement for mental health awareness through her nonprofit, Continue On. Memorable Quotes: “I did hear like all the time that I was too pretty to play the best friend and I wasn't famous enough to be the lead.” [6:01] “I'm done asking for permission. I'm making this movie and I don't care what I have to do or how much work or how many years it takes.” [9:16] “I invested my life savings into this movie, like everything we had, and went back to waitressing so that I could keep the lights on.” [11:30] "Imagine being dropped in the middle of the ocean with nothing but a hard drive, and you gotta keep it over your head and tread motherfucking water until someone comes." [21:09] Links: Continue IMDb Follow Nadine Crocker on Instagram Continue the Film on Instagram Learn more about her nonprofit   Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web https://nofilmschool.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices