Send a text

How do you turn a technical camera launch into a soulful piece of science fiction? In this episode, director Andrew Kightlinger joins the Rumikay Talks podcast to break down the reality of a career in film. From his unique childhood education in Madagascar—where movies arrived in a traveling "Red Island Video Club" footlocker—to directing a feature for Sylvester Stallone, Andrew shares what it takes to survive and thrive in the industry.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The "Sting" of Rejection: Why the "no’s" never stop hurting, but how to stop taking them personally.
• The Art of the Pitch: How Andrew landed the Fujifilm GFX launch by pitching emotional storytelling over technical specs.
• Vulnerability on Set: Why being a "benevolent director" and taking acting classes leads to more truthful performances.
• Grief as Inspiration: How the loss of his grandmother fueled the script for his latest sci-fi short.
• Atomic Habits: Why small steps and personal growth are essential for staying focused as a creative.

✨ Selected links from the episode: ✨

Andrew's IG:

https://www.instagram.com/andrew.vhs

OKAY at Slamdance:

https://slamdance.com/26-lineup/

Slamdance Film Festival: February 19th–25th in Los Angeles (and virtually!)

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations and hit the notification bell so you don't miss out! https://rumikay.com/YouTube

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review Rumikay Talks on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rumikay-talks/id1632585743

💬 We'd love to hear from you! What would you like to learn from working filmmakers? Send us a text!

Send a text

What happens when your career dream and your life dream collide in the same month?

In this episode, Konstantin sits down with filmmaker Joseph Austin II as he prepares for two massive "world premieres": the debut of his second feature film, A Story About You, at the Slamdance Film Festival, and the birth of his first daughter. Joseph shares the incredible story of winning a $60,000 Panavision grant that greenlit his latest project and the technical hurdles of shooting a feature with a tiny, three-person crew.

We explore Joseph’s journey from a college junior searching for a path to becoming a filmmaker whose work is now recognized on the global stage. He opens up about dealing with rejection, the importance of "advocating for your vision," and why he believes human-led storytelling will always hold a special power over AI.

Key Highlights:

• The Panavision Grant: How Joseph turned a festival win into a greenlit feature.
• Indie Production Secrets: Managing 130-lb camera setups with just three people.
• Creative Restoration: Why Sankofa Bookstore in DC is a vital hub for his inspiration.
• The Industry’s Future: Joseph’s perspective on the merger-heavy world of TV and the rise of AI.

Whether you are an aspiring director or a lover of independent cinema, Joseph’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, humility, and the art of "simplifying" the daunting task of making a movie.

✨ Selected links from the episode: ✨

Joseph's IG:

https://www.instagram.com/josephaustinii/

A Story About You at Slamdance:

https://slamdance.com/26-lineup/

Slamdance Film Festival: February 19th–25th in Los Angeles (and virtually!)

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations and hit the notification bell so you don't miss out! https://rumikay.com/YouTube

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review Rumikay Talks on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rumikay-talks/id1632585743

💬 We'd love to hear from you! What would you like to learn from working filmmakers? Send us a text!

Send a text

Welcome to Rumikay Talks! In this episode, we're joined by actor Dan Shaked for an incredibly candid conversation about the realities of pursuing an acting career. Dan takes us on an adventure from his unexpected lodging in a Toronto director's shoe closet to the intricacies of preparing emotionally for a heavy scene.

We dive into his acting training at the renowned Tisch School of Arts and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, uncovering some of the best lessons he's learned. Dan also shares his ultimate dream role, how he recharges his creative spirit through unexpected experiences, and the influential books, movies, and songs that have profoundly impacted his life and work.

✨ Selected links from the episode: ✨

Dan Shaked IG:

https://www.instagram.com/danshaked/

Dan Shaked Website:

https://www.danshaked.com

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations and hit the notification bell so you don't miss out! https://rumikay.com/YouTube

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please give it a thumbs up and share it with someone who needs a dose of inspiration today!

💬 We'd love to hear from you! What are you hoping to learn from Dan Shaked in this episode? Let us know in the comments below!