Episodios

  • Ep 199: From Novels to Screenwriting: A Journey with Ben H. Winters
    May 19 2024
    Today, we are thrilled to host the incredibly versatile Ben H. Winters. Known for his best-selling novels and genre-bending mash-ups like "Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters", Ben ventured into the world of television, crafting gripping storylines for acclaimed series such as "Legion" and "Manhunt."

    In This Episode:
    • Transition from Novelist to Screenwriter:
      • Ben discusses what inspired his leap from the literary world to screenwriting and how his background in novel-writing influences his screenwriting approach.
    • Creative Process:
      • Explore Ben's creative process across different genres and formats. Learn how he develops stories for television compared to novels, focusing on character development, plot structure, and pacing.
    • Challenges and Triumphs:
      • Ben shares some challenges faced while working on "Legion" and "Manhunt", and moments that he's particularly proud of in his TV and film career.
    • Impact of Personal Experiences:
      • From punk bands and theatre to distinguished spaces in literature and television, Ben reveals how his diverse experiences have shaped his storytelling voice.
    Highlighted Questions:
    1. What inspired your shift from best-selling novels to engaging TV storylines?
    2. Can you walk us through your creative process for developing TV stories versus writing a novel?
    3. Discuss a memorable challenge or triumph from working on shows like "Legion" and "Manhunt."
    4. How have your early experiences in music and theatre influenced your screenwriting projects?
    5. What advice would you give to aspiring writers and filmmakers entering the industry?
    6. How do you manage to blend diverse genres into compelling narratives?
    7. Share an example where genre blending played a key role in your work on "Legion" or "Manhunt."
    8. Can you describe a memorable collaboration experience from your TV projects?
    Conclusion: Tune in to this rich and inspiring conversation where Ben H. Winters shares invaluable insights into navigating the worlds of writing and filmmaking. Discover what excites him next in television and film, including themes and stories he is eager to explore.Join Damien Swaby as he delves into the mind of a master storyteller who effortlessly blends genres, tackles adaptation challenges, collaborates creatively, and continues to shape the future of storytelling.

    Previous Guests Highlights:
    • James David Redding III: Emmy Award winner for his work on "The Queen's Gambit."
    • Donald Sylvester: Academy Award winner for Best Sound Editing for "Ford v Ferrari."
    Educational Benefits: Our episodes offer comprehensive educational content, providing aspiring filmmakers, seasoned professionals, and cinema enthusiasts with actionable insights and inspiration. Don't miss out on this episode brimming with wisdom and wonder!

    Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton
    Damien Swaby Social Media Links:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwaby
    Website: https://www.swabyfilms.co.uk
    If you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!
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    32 m
  • Ep 198: Crafting Narratives with Emily Hardy: A Glimpse into Life, Art, and Growth
    Apr 29 2024
    Join us as we continue our riveting conversation with Emily, a powerhouse executive who has entrenched herself in the landscape of storytelling. Today, she shares a wealth of insights gleaned from an illustrious career behind the scenes and in front of the camera. We're peeling back the curtain to reveal the confluence of skill, craft, and the vibrant spontaneity that marks both her life and her work.
    • In This Episode:
    • Emily opens up about how her executive tenure has sharpened her narrative instincts and the ways it's sculpted her own creative pursuits.
    • Delve into the balance of business and artistry as Emily recounts navigating commercial vs. creative expectations on renowned series like "Big Sky" and “Goliath."
    • Explore the profound growth and evolution Emily has experienced transitioning through various industry roles, and how these shifts have enriched her current endeavors.
    • Hear about the transformative moments at the Juvenile Probation Camp, David Gonzalez, where Emily's guidance has led to breakthroughs with the youth.
    • Discover the rhythmic parallels between Flamenco and acting—and how this infuses depth into Emily’s writing and performances.
    • Get Emily's take on the dynamic changes exciting her most about the future of television and film storytelling.
    • Reflect on sage advice that Emily would give her younger self and its resonance for Hollywood newcomers today.
    • An emotional journey through narrative—Emily provides an example of a recent project and her approach to fostering deep audience connections.
    • Learn how Emily's personal relationships and emotions intertwine with her projects, shaping them in profound ways.
    • Resilience in the face of adversity: Emily visits a past professional setback and the life lessons carried forward from that experience.
    • Striking harmony between a demanding career and personal life—Emily offers her strategies for keeping cherished relationships n full bloom.
    • Navigating genuine friendships in an industry often characterized by its fleeting interactions—tap into Emily’s wisdom on forming lasting bonds.
    • Emotional alchemy: channeling personal experiences of love, passion, and heartbreak into the arts of acting and writing.
    • A look into Emily's history—identifying a transformative life event that stands as a cornerstone for her artistic identity.
    • Confronting the urge to quit, Emily reveals the pivotal moment that instead catapulted her to a new level of professional and personal realization.
    • Emily shares her guiding ethos, her 'north star,' which has illuminated her path across the complex entertainment landscape.

    Don't miss this intimate and enthralling journey through the heartbeats of creativity with the gifted Emily. Tune in, and let's dance to the rhythm of stories untold, right here on our show.

    W: https://emilyhardy.com

    Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton
    Damien Swaby Social Media Links:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwaby
    Website: https://www.swabyfilms.co.uk
    If you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!

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    50 m
  • Ep 197: Films for Thought: Jennifer Fischer’s Educational Crusade
    Apr 9 2024
    Empowering Change Through Film with Jennifer Fischer, Executive Director of Journeys in Film.

    In today's enlightening episode of Filmmaking Conversations we're honored to host Jennifer Fischer, the visionary at the helm of Journeys in Film. A beacon for integrating cinema into educational paradigms, Journeys in Film is leading the charge in using the emotive power of film to educate and inspire.

    About Jennifer Fischer and Journeys in Film:
    • Discover the origins of Journeys in Film and the passion that fueled its inception.
    • Dive into the educational philosophy that guides Journeys in Film in choosing cinematic pieces that resonate with today's visually literate generation.
    Core Discussions:
    • Film Selection Process: Uncover how Journeys in Film curates films and documentaries, and the critical criteria these works must fulfill.
    • Lesson Plan Development: Learn about the meticulous process behind creating multidisciplinary lesson plans designed to broaden young minds on global issues.
    • Interdisciplinary Teaching: Jen sheds light on the challenge of interdisciplinary teaching and the innovative ways Journeys in Film supports educators in this endeavor.
    • Promoting Empathy: Explore the profound impact of teaching through film in fostering global competency and empathy among students.
    Looking Ahead:
    • Vision and Goals: What’s next for Journeys in Film? Discover the long-term aspirations and potential new explorations.
    • Impact Stories: Hear heartwarming feedback from teachers and students touched by the organization's work.
    • Expanding Reach: Delve into the organization's efforts to extend its educational resources beyond the traditional classroom setting.
    Special Focus:
    • "Matter of Mind: My Parkinson's": An inside look at the collaboration behind the discussion guide for this impactful film and how it will be utilized to initiate meaningful conversations.
    For Creators & Educators:
    • Pathways to Contribution: Advice for filmmakers and educators eager to make a difference through educational media.
    • Personal Insights: Jenn shares memorable reflections from working on "Matter of Mind: My Parkinson's" and insights from her own journey in film and education.

    W: https://journeysinfilm.org/

    Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton
    Damien Swaby Social Media Links:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwaby
    Website: https://www.swabyfilms.co.uk
    If you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!
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    44 m
  • Ep 196: Heroes Unseen: The Journey of APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home
    Mar 31 2024
    Guests: Dave Merlino and Dustin Sweet, Writers/Directors

    Podcast Notes:
    In this compelling episode, we sit down with Dave Merlino and Dustin Sweet, the creative powerhouses behind the thought-provoking documentary "APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home." Merlino, a former federal law enforcement officer turned filmmaker, and Sweet, an animation artist with a rich background in film, television, and music, share their journey making this significant film.
    Background: Dave and Dustin embarked on a multi-year odyssey, traveling over 30,000 miles across the continental US to delve into the hearts and memories of Vietnam War veterans. Their mission: to uncover the true essence of the war and the silent, enduring bravery of those who fought.

    Kregg Jorgenson's Story: A poignant part of the film, and our conversation, revolves around Kregg Jorgenson, an Army Ranger whose harrowing experiences in Vietnam showcase the sacrifice and valor overshadowed by the war’s controversial legacy.

    The Making of APACHE BLUES: Delving deeper, our guests reveal their motivations for pursuing this project, shedding light on the disparaging portrayal of Vietnam Veterans in media and society, and their quest to bring honor to these unsung heroes.

    Premiere Details: "APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home" is set for a theatrical release from November 10th to November 16th at Laemmle Theatres in Encino, with dreams of qualifying for the 2023 Academy Awards in the Best Documentary category.

    Conclusion: Join us as Dave and Dustin share their insights, challenges, and hopes for changing narratives and healing wounds through the power of storytelling and cinema.
    Listen & Share: Engage with the enduring stories of bravery, resilience, and redemption in “APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home.” Discover why it’s not just a film, but a journey to reframe our understanding of heroism and acknowledge those who've been forgotten.

    W: https://apachebluesfilm.com/story/#google_vignette
    F: https://www.facebook.com/apachebluesfilm/

    Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton
    Damien Swaby Social Media Links:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwaby
    Website: https://www.swabyfilms.co.uk
    If you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!
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    41 m
  • Ep 195: Pamela Uzzell: 'Welcome To The Neighborhood' – A Bay Area Battle
    Mar 27 2024
    Welcome to another compelling episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, where today we have the honor of hosting Pamela Uzzell, an esteemed documentary producer, director, and editor. Her feature-length documentary, "Unearthing the Dream," not only graced Arkansas Public Television as a highlight of their independent producer series but also clinched Best Documentary at the Arkansas Black Independent Film Festival and garnered an Indie Award of Merit.

    Pamela's academic journey is as illustrious as her career—she's a proud alumna of Brown University, holding an MFA in Cinema from San Francisco State University. Her incredible depth of experience spans over twenty feature films in post-production, including major blockbusters like "Godfather III," "Terminator 2," and the critically acclaimed "Dead Poets’ Society."

    Beyond her impressive body of work, Uzzell is an active member of both the Bay Area Video Coalition and The San Francisco Film Society, championing the art of filmmaking and its transformative power.
    In this episode, we delve into Pamela's latest directorial venture that puts the spotlight on the Bay Area housing crisis—a poignant narrative that not only showcases individual resilience but also casts a critical eye on the pressing issue of gentrification.

    The documentary, "Welcome To The Neighborhood," follows artist Mildred Howard, the daughter of the legendary Berkeley activist Mable Howard, as she faces the loss of her South Berkeley home due to escalating rental prices—a personal tragedy that represents a much larger communal loss of heritage and diversity.

    We'll explore the journey of the Howard family and how they symbolize both the strength found in adversity and the collective fight against a housing crisis that poses a significant threat to community diversity and inclusivity.

    Don't miss this episode's visual companion, the trailer for "Welcome To The Neighborhood," available for viewing now.

    Join us in this intimate conversation with Pamela Uzzell as we uncover the stories behind the statistics and the human impact of urban transformation.

    Remember to subscribe to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby to never miss an episode that dives deep into the world of film and those who make it possible.

    Links:
    Watch the Trailer: https://www.welcometotheneighborhoodfilm.com/trailer
    DVD Purchase: https://www.welcometotheneighborhoodfilm.com/packages/dvd
    Learn More about Pamela Uzzell: https://www.welcometotheneighborhoodfilm.com/team
    Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on the next Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby


    Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton
    Damien Swaby Social Media Links:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwaby
    Website: https://www.swabyfilms.co.uk
    If you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!

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    53 m
  • Ep 194: Navigating Filmmaking Through the Law with Katherine Imp
    Mar 16 2024
    Episode Overview: Welcome to "Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby," where we explore the inner workings of the film industry and the intricacies of cinema through insightful discussions with professionals from all facets of the movie-making process. I'm your host, Damien Swaby, and in today's episode, we delve into the nuanced world of entertainment law with special guest Katherine Imp.Katherine comes with a wealth of knowledge, having juggled the dual hats of a film producer and a legal expert. Her formidable tenure at DLA Piper LLP, one of the most distinguished law firms globally, provides her with a unique perspective on the convergence of law and film production.Podcast Highlights:Transitioning from Filmmaking to Law:Katherine discusses her significant shift from producing documentaries to pursuing a career in entertainment law.She reflects on how her filmmaking background influences her current legal practice by bringing a creative storytelling perspective to the table.Understanding Production Counsel:An inside look at the daily responsibilities of a production counsel, including negotiating contracts for film and TV.Katherine explains how she uses legal frameworks to support and protect a film's vision and storyline.Protecting Intellectual Property in the Digital Era:The current challenges of protecting intellectual property in an age of streaming services and digital content.Strategies that content creators can use to secure their creative works.Legal Aspects of Film Finance and Distribution:Understanding the complexities of legal processes as films move from funding stages to reaching audiences.The role of law in maintaining the financial stability and economics of a film project.Educating New Legal Minds in Film:Insights from Katherine's experience as a guest lecturer at top institutions like USC's Gould School of Law and Marshall School of Business.Useful knowledge she imparts to students, blending her industry experience with academic learning.Foreseeing Changes in Entertainment Finance and Law:Predictions on how the financial and legal sides of entertainment will evolve to keep up with industry changes.Exploring Legal Implications of NFTs in Film:A discussion on the emerging roles of NFTs in the entertainment industry and the legal considerations surrounding them.Merging Film Passion with Legal Expertise:Katherine shares her personal journey of combining her love for film with her legal career.Analyzing a Documentary Case:A look into a complex legal scenario in documentary production and how it was resolved.Due Diligence in Acquiring Rights:Katherine spotlights the importance and process of due diligence when obtaining rights for film projects.IP Protection for Filmmakers Amidst Digital Shifts:Tips and strategies on securing intellectual property for films in a quickly changing digital landscape.Demystifying Film Finance Law:An explanation of the legal structures involved in film financing and their importance for filmmakers.Connecting Education with Real-World Legal Experience:How Katherine's practical industry experience enhances her teaching and provides value to her students' education.Impact of Blockchain on Film Financing:Future predictions regarding the influence of blockchain technology on film financing and distribution from a legal standpoint.Understanding DLA Piper's Role in Film:An overview of DLA Piper's financial influence and its support for filmmakers through legal advocacy.Staying Ahead in Entertainment Law:Unveiling the strategies that DLA Piper uses to maintain its competitive edge in the evolving world of entertainment law.Katherine Imp's Professional Legacy:Katherine's vision for her future contributions to the fields of law and cinema and her anticipated legacy at DLA Piper.w: https://www.dlapiper.com/en/people/i/imp-katherineThis episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of legal considerations and creative storytelling in film. Tune in for rich discussions and personal stories, shedding light on the often-overlooked importance of law in the art of filmmaking.Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton Damien Swaby Social Media Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwabyWebsite: https://www.swabyfilms.co.ukIf you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!
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    39 m
  • Ep 193: Melinda Dahl's Mosaic: Interweaving Music, Moments, and Images
    Mar 12 2024
    Join us in an expansive conversation with the immensely talented guest who has made waves in the worlds of photography, acting, and music. Dive deep into a journey of creative expression, technical mastery, and the entrepreneurial spirit.Melinda Dahl is a photographer, actress and musician living in Los Angeles. Raised in an artistic family in Toronto, Melinda began acting professionally at age 16. It was through photographing fellow performers in music and film that she began a lifelong fascination with documenting the arts. She concentrated in theatre at Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts and studied photography at Ryerson University and the Ontario College of Art and Design.Melinda was drawn to Los Angeles by the city’s singular ability to cultivate artists and cross-pollenate among its vibrant film, theatre, music, and visual arts scenes. For more than ten years, her commercial and editorial work has captured the creative processes of both emerging and established acts. In 2008, Melinda co-founded the production company Dahlhouse Productions with her twin sister Caitlin, specializing in creating cohesive visual content for arts, beauty and fashion clients.Her work has been featured in Launchpad Magazine, Guitar Magazine, 944 Magazine, and Campus Circle. Corporate clients include GUESS, SexyHair, Bosley Professional Strength, Oceana, Colorproof, Pharmagel and Kareco.Melinda’s fine art photography draws from her experience as a performer and songwriter and often serves as the visual accompaniment for the music of The Dahls. It has been featured in the POV Evolving Gallery in Los Angeles.Acting credits include Recurring Guest Starring roles on Loudermilk – Peter Farrelly, Casual, CSI New York, Bones, Nip Tuck, Cold Case, House alongside twin sister Caitlin, and most recently Netflix's original series Virgin River. The work she feels most proud of are the two short films "Grown Ups" and "The Get Together" written and directed by Caitlin Dahl that she starred in.https://www.melindadahl.com/aboutSynergy of Creativity: Our guest shares how being a photographer, actress, and musician allows for a cross-pollination of skills and ideas, creating a unique composite of artistic vision.Roots of Artistry: We explore the rich cultural tapestry of Toronto that nurtured our guest's artistic flair and investigate the catalyst behind her big move to the heart of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles.Capturing the Creative Spirit: Gain a rare insight into the intimate process of photographing fellow artists and the reciprocal influence this has on understanding the nexus between music and film.Harmony of Technique and Expression: Delve into how a strong foundation in theatre and photography education helps balance the technical aspects with artistic freedom in our guest's varied projects.Vision of Dahlhouse Productions: Learn about the aspirations and dreams fueling the creation of compelling visual content designed to engage and inspire within the realms of arts, beauty, and fashion.The Visual Soundscape: Listen to the behind-the-scenes magic of marrying fine art photography with the melodic stories of The Dahls, crafting an immersive experience for the audience.Embodying Diverse Characters: Hear about the methods and prep work that go into bringing to life the variety of characters on screen, including the most demanding roles our guest has encountered.Sisterhood in Art: Witness the special bond of working with a twin sibling and how this unique relationship shapes the creative process and performance in collaborative projects.Indie Film Pride: Reflect on the compelling aspects of the short films "Grown Ups" and "The Get Together," celebrating the pride and lessons learnt from these personal cinematic endeavors.Balancing Acts: Navigate the intricate dance between fulfilling commercial contracts and pursuing personal artistic projects, uncovering the challenges and rewards of maintaining this dynamic equilibrium.Acting with a Page from History: Delve into the nuanced approach required for roles based on real people and historical events in contrast to fictional characters, as highlighted by our guest's role in 'American Crime Story - The Assassination of Gianni Versace.'Don't miss this insightful episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, where the exploration of an arts-rich lifestyle and the intricacies of an interlaced creative vocation promise to inspire and provoke thought in equal measure.Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton Damien Swaby Social Media Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwabyWebsite: https://www.swabyfilms.co.ukIf you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!
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    37 m
  • Ep 192: Crafting Auditory Narratives with Emmy Award winner James David Redding III
    Mar 4 2024
    Welcome to this episode of "Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby," where we delve into the art of sound design with the renowned James David Redding III. Get ready for an auditory adventure that will heighten your appreciation for the sounds that bring stories to life.

    IMBD: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1250289/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdavidreddingiii/


    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jdr3productions521/videos


    • Introduction to our esteemed guest, James David Redding III, known for his immersive sound work on hits like "The Patient," "Carol," and "The Queen's Gambit."

    • A deep dive into the world of sound design in cinema and television, revealing the complexity behind every auditory detail.

    • Behind-the-scenes insights on crafting the heart-pounding soundscapes for the blockbuster movie "Mr. & Mrs. Smith."

    • Discovering how strategic sound design played a pivotal role in the storytelling of the critically acclaimed series "The Queen's Gambit."

    • A comparative analysis of sound layers from different eras showcased in "The Queen's Gambit" versus the contemporary backdrop of "American Rust."

    • Unmasking the unique Foley techniques that create the haunting atmosphere of a town on the edge of oblivion in "American Rust."

    • Learn how James ensures dialogue remains crystal clear amidst chaotic action sequences and the contrasting sounds of urban versus rural settings.

    • An in-depth conversation about the subtleties of ambient sound between the action-packed "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" and the pastoral calmness of "American Rust."

    • A look into the creative process of a sound designer and James's personal approach to defining a project's audio signature.


    James David Redding III brings expertise and a treasure trove of experience. Tune in as he shares his valuable knowledge and anecdotes from behind the mixing console, highlighting the critical role sound plays in enhancing cinematic storytelling.

    Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton
    Damien Swaby Social Media Links:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwaby
    Website: https://www.swabyfilms.co.uk
    If you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!
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    1 h y 4 m