The Film Situation

060 - Scott DuPont - Producer - "How to Actually Raise Money for Your Indie Film"

In this episode, we sit down in-person with producer and film finance expert Scott DuPont out in Los Angeles. I first discovered Scott through the documentary MOVIE MONEY CONFIDENTIAL (directed by Rick Pamplin) , and he also runs a great podcast called Finance Your Movie. He’s raised millions of dollars for indie films and has been in the game for a long time...but what really stands out is how practical and down-to-earth his approach is.

We talk about how he raised a million bucks for his first feature back in the '90s, what it was like meeting a major investor while doing background work on THE WATERBOY, and why trying to attach actors before you have money in the bank is almost always a waste of time. Scott breaks down the psychology of raising money, how to build trust with investors, what really goes into a legit business plan, and how to tap into your network without being awkward about it.

He also shares insights about his work with Quentin Tarantino and Burt Reynolds, talks about why most filmmakers fail to pick up the phone, and explains what he calls “asymmetrical risk/reward” basically, how to offer big upside while protecting your downside. It’s all super real and super helpful.

If you’re serious about getting your movie made, this episode’s gonna give you a ton to think about — and a real strategy to actually move forward.

Hosted by Zef Cota

059 - Louise Levison - The Finance Architect Behind THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT

Louise Levison is the undisputed queen of indie film business plans—and in this episode, she breaks down how to actually raise money for your movie. Best known for crafting the business plan that launched The Blair Witch Project, Louise has helped independent filmmakers secure financing for decades. We talk about what investors really care about, how to position your project for success, and the biggest mistakes first-time filmmakers make when chasing funds. Whether you're planning your first feature or looking to level up your producing game, this episode is packed with gold.

 

Hosted by Zef Cota

058 - Dante Spinotti - Cinematographer (HEAT, L.A. CONFIDENTIAL, THE ALTO KNIGHTS)

Throwback episode -- originally recorded for GlobeScreen in 2023:

Legendary cinematographer Dante Spinotti (HEAT, L.A. CONFIDENTIAL, THE INSIDER) joins us for a rare and intimate conversation. We dive into his collaborations with directors like Michael Mann and Curtis Hanson, explore the making of iconic films, and hear behind-the-scenes stories—from lighting the climactic airport scene in HEAT to shooting ALTO KNIGHTS with Robert De Niro in dual roles.

Spinotti also shares insights on digital vs. film, working with actors, and advice for young DPs trying to break in. A must-listen for anyone who loves the art and craft of cinematic storytelling.

Hosted by Zef Cota

057 - Julian Biba : Festival Director, Producer, Storyteller

On this episode of The Film Situation, host Zef Cota sits down with Julian Biba—a filmmaker, producer, novelist, and director of the NY True Venture Film Festival—to discuss his unconventional journey into filmmaking. From his early days as a bodyguard to finding himself at the Cannes Film Festival with his first short film, Julian shares how his real-life experiences have shaped his storytelling across film, literature, and festival programming.

Plus, Julian and Zef break down two of his favorite movie scenes:
THE BOURNE IDENTITY (2002) & Tony Scott's MAN ON FIRE (2004).

@julianbiba

Hosted by Zef Cota

056- Kubrick: An Odyssey with Nathan Abrams & Robert P. Kolker

In this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with acclaimed Stanley Kubrick biographers Nathan Abrams and Robert P. Kolker, co-authors of KUBRICK: AN ODYSSEY, to explore the genius of one of cinema’s most enigmatic directors.

From the Bronx to London, Stanley Kubrick’s legacy continues to fascinate and influence filmmakers and cinephiles alike. We dive deep into his obsessive attention to detail, behind-the-scenes stories from his most iconic films, and what made him such a singular force in cinema history.

Hosted by Zef Cota

055 - JoeBill Muñoz and Lucas Guilkey - THE STRIKE

On this episode of The Film Situation, I sit down with documentary filmmakers JoeBill Muñoz and Lucas Guilkey to discuss their powerful PBS documentary THE STRIKE. The film tells the gripping story of a historic 30,000-person hunger strike inside California’s prison system—an act of mass resistance that exposed the brutal reality of long-term solitary confinement.

We dive into how JoeBill and Lucas first met, the years-long process of making the film, and the incredible resilience of the men who organized the strike. They also share the challenges of visually telling a story set largely within prison walls, their influences, and the emotional impact of screening THE STRIKE inside San Quentin.

This conversation sheds light on a major but largely overlooked moment in U.S. history—one that changed lives and reformed the prison system. THE STRIKE premieres on PBS, bringing this urgent story to audiences across the country. Tune in to hear how the film came together and why it’s essential viewing.

 Follow the film at thestrikefilm.com and on Instagram @thestrikefilm

054 - Tom Chaves – From Gaffer to DP & The Future of Cinematography

On this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with gaffer-turned-DP Tom Chaves to discuss his 15-year journey in the industry, the challenges of transitioning from lighting to camera, and the harsh realities of being pigeonholed in the film business. Tom shares insights on AI’s growing impact on cinematography, the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking, and his own experiences working on everything from music videos to micro-budget features to high-end commercial gigs.

We also dive into his deep love for cinema and discuss scenes from the Brazilian film CITY OF GOD and Tony Kaye's AMERICAN HISTORY X.

Hosted by Zef Cota

053- 2025 Oscar noms & THE BRUTALIST

Discussion between Jon Difilippo & Zef Cota about the 2025 Academy Award nominated films.

Warning there may be spoilers!

052 - A Tribute to David Lynch (r.i.p.)

In this special emergency episode of THE FILM SITUATION, we pay tribute to the life and work of legendary filmmaker David Lynch, who has profoundly influenced the world of cinema.

David Lynch’s films, from BLUE VELVET to TWIN PEAKS, have captivated audiences with their unique blend of surrealism, haunting visuals, and complex storytelling. In this episode, we reflect on his unmatched contributions to film and explore the lasting impact of his art and philosophy.

Zef Cota co-hosts with Alex Gray, and guest Heather Buckley who share their experiences and thoughts on Lynch’s work, his philosophy, and his influence on their own lives and careers. His quote, “Keep your eye on the donut and not the hole,” is just one example of his ability to inspire and provoke thought about life, creativity, and the human experience.

Join us as we honor a true visionary in cinema, offering our heartfelt condolences and celebrating the indelible mark he’s left on the world.

051 - Catherine Marie Thomas - Costume Designer

In this episode we sit down with acclaimed costume designer Catherine Marie Thomas to explore her storied career. Known for her work on iconic films like KILL BILL, GREY GARDENS, THE PROPOSAL, and the Netflix hit LEAVE THE WORLD BEHIND, Catherine shares fascinating insights into the art of costume design.

From her unconventional start at Juilliard to collaborating with legendary directors like Quentin Tarantino and Robert Altman, Catherine discusses her creative process, memorable projects, and the challenges of designing for both film and television. We also dive into two of her favorite movie scenes: the unforgettable showdown from KILL BILL, featuring Uma Thurman, and a key moment from THE SUBSTANCE, starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley.

Episode hosted by Zef Cota, with co-host Laura Popovic.