The Film Situation

050 - Bill Fishman - Film Director

In this episode, Zef Cota welcomes acclaimed filmmaker Bill Fishman, director of the cult classic TAPE HEADS and numerous iconic music videos for bands like the Ramones and Counting Crows. Bill dives into the making of his latest project, WALTZING WITH BRANDO, a fascinating biopic starring Billy Zane as the legendary Marlon Brando.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tahiti, the film explores Brando's ambitious dream to build an eco-friendly resort on a remote island, based on the memoir of architect Bernard Judge. Bill shares insights into casting Billy Zane, the creative process behind capturing Brando’s essence, and how Zane’s nuanced portrayal balances authenticity and grounded performance without falling into imitation.

The conversation also touches on the film’s exploration of Brando’s disillusionment with Hollywood, his quest for personal freedom, and the challenges of bringing this larger-than-life story to the screen. Plus, hear a bit about John Heder's role in the film (and how to correctly pronounce his name).

Listen in for an inspiring look at storytelling, creative collaboration, and reimagining the legends of cinema.

Hosted by Zef Cota

049 - Claire McKey Berkman - Writer & Director

In this episode we sit down with the multifaceted Claire McKey Berkman to discuss her dynamic career spanning TV, theater, film, and web content. From her beginnings in creative writing and theater at Pitzer College to working in tv and film production in Los Angeles, Claire has embraced every aspect of storytelling. After moving to London to earn her MFA in Advanced Theatre Practice at the prestigious Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, she pushed the boundaries of her craft by writing and producing an immersive musical.

Claire shares insights into the power of collaboration, the intersection of music and narrative, and the unique challenges of creating across multiple mediums. Whether you're a filmmaker, actor, or creative dreamer, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for embracing a multidisciplinary approach to your craft.

We also discuss some of her favorite movie scenes, from WICKED (2024) to SHAUN OF THE DEAD (2004).

Hosted by Zef Cota

048 - Matthew Canada - Cinematographer

In this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with NYC based cinematographer Matthew Canada to explore his unique journey from studying jazz theory at a music conservatory to crafting breathtaking visuals for narrative films and cinematic commercials. Matthew shares how his diverse life experiences, including earning a degree in marketing, have shaped his artistic approach to cinematography, where art and science seamlessly merge.

We dive into his early days filming music videos in New York City, his passion for narrative storytelling, and how he uses framing, lighting, and subtext to enhance story and character. Matthew also opens up about the collaborative nature of filmmaking, discussing his work with directors, production designers, and actors, and how he balances meticulous technical preparation with on-the-spot creative instincts.

To wrap things up, we delve into some of Matthew’s favorite movie scenes, including Martin Scorsese's iconic GOODFELLAS and Todd Phillips' gripping THE JOKER, unpacking what makes them so visually and emotionally impactful.

Hosted by Zef Cota

047 - Emmet Loverde - Filmmaker

In this episode of The Film Situation, Zef Cota chats with Emmet Loverde, a multi-talented writer, director, and producer whose work spans stage, screen, radio, and beyond. With over 200 productions of his stage plays mounted worldwide, Emmet shares his insights into crafting stories that captivate audiences across mediums.

From his feature films like SHE'S OUT OF HIS MIND and BEAUTY, BRAINS, AND PERSONALITY to his acclaimed radio adaptations of THE MOON MAID and THE KILLIST, Emmet’s creative output is nothing short of prolific. We’ll also discuss his latest project, the upcoming horror film WITHOUT A NAME, as well as his experiences as an associate producer on Sony Pictures’ DALLY AND SPANKY.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with a true storyteller who knows how to entertain, enlighten, and engage audiences everywhere.

046 - Joshua Holz - Filmmaker

Joshua Holz is a filmmaker based in New York. He has directed and edited films featured in MovieMaker Magazine's Top 50 Festivals, W.W. Norton & Company, Interview Magazine, and has worked on films and productions worldwide. His graduate film thesis, Another Night (2023) was awarded the Made in NY Grant. He developed his feature script Vera about his great-grandmother for script labs and pre-production in Texas.

045 - George Beno - Producer

In this episode, we’re joined by George Beno, a New York-based film producer whose impressive credits include co-producing Josh Mond’s IT DOESN’T MATTER, starring Christopher Abbott and Jay Will, which premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, and Rachel Wolther’s THE FRENCH ITALIAN, featured at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival.

Beyond producing, George brings a wealth of experience in location management, having worked on major productions like JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX (2024) and INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR (2023).

We dive into some of George’s favorite film moments, including Gaspar Noé’s CLIMAX (2018), David Fincher’s GONE GIRL (2014), and Danny Boyle’s SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE (2008), exploring what makes these scenes unforgettable.

Hosted by Zef Cota

044 - Kent Sanderson - President of Bleecker Street

Kent Sanderson is the President of Bleecker Street Media. Recently, they've released films such as RUMOURS (2024) with Cate Blanchett, SASQUATCH SUNSET (2024) with Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough, and TREASURE (2024) with Lena Dunham and Stephen Fry. 

Kent also served as Executive Producer on other Bleecker releases, including THE ART OF SELF-DEFENSE (2019), starring Jesse Eisenberg and Alessandro Nivola, as well as the upcoming Mike Leigh film HARD TRUTHS, which premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and the 2024 New York Film Festival.

We discussed the world of independent cinema and the business of filmmaking, along with Bleecker Street’s latest releases, the evolving landscape of film distribution, and what it takes to create a lasting impact through independent film. Kent also shares his insights on two of his favorite movie scenes, one from SUPERMAN (1978) and another from CONTACT (1997), offering a glimpse into what he believes makes cinematic moments truly memorable. 

Hosted by Zef Cota

043 - Throwback - Bobby Perreti THE THIRD MAN & VERTIGO

In this episode, Zef sits down with Bobby Perretti, founder of Wheelhouse Films and an emerging filmmaker who began his journey studying screenwriting at Johns Hopkins University where he made his debut short film, The Cyclist. With experience as a director’s assistant, script doctor, writer, and coordinator for NYC's Directors' Collective workshop, Bobby shares insights into his work in film. Together, Zef and Bobby dive into the artistry of two cinematic classics: Carol Reed's 1949 British noir THE THIRD MAN and Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece VERTIGO. 

Originally recorded for FilmSEEN in June 2020.

Hosted by Zef Cota

 

042 - Tracy James Terry - Playwright & Screenwriter

In this episode of The Film Situation, Zef Cota sits down with the multi-talented Tracy James Terry, an award-winning playwright, actor, and musician turned screenwriter and producer. Tracy shares her journey from theater to film, recounting how her successful stage play led her to the world of screenwriting and eventually to founding her own film company. With wit and insight, she discusses the challenges of adapting her play for the screen, the cinematic and literary influences that shaped her work, and her upcoming film project, ÉIRE WE GO, a comedy about the hilarious misadventures of Americans in Ireland.

The conversation also dives into Tracy’s love for Hitchcock’s DIAL M FOR MURDER and Spielberg's JAWS, along with a discussion of IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, covering the storytelling techniques, character dynamics, and cinematic innovations that make these classics unforgettable. Join us for an inspiring talk on pushing creative boundaries, the art of adaptation, and manifesting your vision in film.

041 - Art Camacho - Director

Director and legendary stuntman Art Camacho. Known for his work on action-packed films, Art shares insights into his latest release, RUTHLESS (2023), a gripping revenge thriller starring Dermot Mulroney. Zef and Art also dive into his upcoming project, featuring iconic actors Harvey Keitel and Danny Trejo. With decades of experience in the industry, Art discusses the art of blending high-octane action with compelling storytelling, while reflecting on his journey from stunt coordination to directing. It's a must-listen for action film enthusiasts and aspiring filmmakers alike!

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Hosted by Zef Cota