

Go Creative Show
Ben Consoli
Go Creative Show is a place for revealing and informative interviews with A-list filmmakers. Hosted by Producer and Director Ben Consoli, each week we feature cinematographers, production designers, directors and producers to share behind the scenes experiences from the hottest movies and shows. Whether you're a brand new filmmaker or a film industry veteran, Go Creative Show will entertain, inform and make you a better filmmaker.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 31, 2024 • 43min
American Sports Story Aaron Hernandez Cinematography with Elie Smolkin
In this episode of the Go Creative Show, host Ben Consoli interviews Elie Smolkin, the director of photography for the series 'American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez.' They discuss the unique storytelling approach of the series, focusing on the complexities of Aaron Hernandez's life beyond sports. Elie shares insights into the visual style, including the use of color to represent trauma and the innovative techniques used to depict CTE. The conversation also covers the challenges faced during filming, the importance of collaboration in filmmaking, and Elie's personal goals in the industry. The Go Creative Show is produced by Ben Consoli and Connor Crosby, Creative Director and Producer at BC Media Productions Takeaways The story of Aaron Hernandez is an anti-sports story. Visual storytelling is crucial for engaging narratives. Color plays a significant role in conveying themes. CTE representation required innovative cinematography techniques. Camera movement enhances the emotional connection to characters. Collaboration and communication are key in filmmaking. Preparation is essential for managing complex shoots. Flexibility in creative decisions leads to better outcomes. Finding a compelling story is a filmmaker's challenge. Building a strong crew is vital for a successful production. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Story of Aaron Hernandez 02:57 Visual Storytelling and Cinematic Techniques 05:31 Representing CTE Through Cinematography 11:45 Choosing the Right Camera Package 12:48 Using Camera Motion to Tell Visual Stories 17:45 Challenges in Filming Dramatic Episodes 19:34 The Challenges of Filming Episode 6 27:37 Maintaining Visual Consistency While Working with Multiple Directors 33:27 Joining the Ryan Murphy Family of Filmakers 33:57 Filmmaking Mistakes and How to Learn From Them 38:14 Goals and Aspirations in Filmmaking Links: https://eliesmolkin.com https://bcmediaproductions.com https://www.facebook.com/gocreativeshow https://www.instagram.com/gocreativeshow Have a show idea? Leave a comment!

Oct 19, 2024 • 50min
The Cinematography of Monsters: The Lyle and Eric Menendez Story with Jason McCormick
In this episode of the Go Creative Show, host Ben Consoli welcomes back Jason McCormick, the director of photography for 'Monsters: The Lyle and Eric Menendez Story.' They discuss the pressures and expectations of following a successful series, the approach to adapting controversial real-life stories, and the unique lighting and visual style of the show. Jason shares insights into preparing for the gruesome murder scene and the impact of the one-take format in episode five, highlighting the importance of storytelling in filmmaking. In this conversation, Jason McCormick discusses: His experiences and insights as a cinematographer Focusing on the creative process behind the series How he humanizing characters Using scattered light in cinematography The Importance of having a background in film Reflection on the future of immersive filmmaking and the communal experience of cinema. LINKS Go Creative Show BC Media Productions Jason McCormick Official Website Lightbridge

Oct 11, 2024 • 33min
Immersive Filmmaking, Joker 2 Review, Meta Movie Gen and AI tools for Video Production
Summary In this episode of the Go Creative Show, Ben Consoli and Connor Crosby discuss the latest happenings in the film industry, including their thoughts on Apple's new immersive film 'Submerge' and the controversial musical 'Joker 2'. They also delve into the impact of AI on filmmaking, highlighting the advancements in video generation technology and its implications for the future of cinematography. Takeaways Apple's Vision Pro enhances immersive film experiences. 'Submerge' showcases innovative storytelling techniques. Joker 2's musical format raises questions about its execution. AI is revolutionizing video production and editing. The importance of prompts in AI-generated content. Filmmakers are exploring new creative avenues with technology. The balance between risk and audience reception in filmmaking. Meta Movie Gen jumps into the AI video space The evolution of cinematography through technological advancements. Community engagement is vital for filmmakers and production companies. Links Go Creative Show BC Media Productions Ben's band Three Second Chances Behind the Scenes of Apple's Immersive Film "Submerge" Meta Movie Gen Firefly AI Video Generator

Oct 3, 2024 • 35min
Honing Your Producer Skills, Tips to Find Crew Around The World, Why You Need Specialized Demo Reels
In this episode of The Go Creative Show, Ben and Connor dive into the art of building production crews across different locations. They share fun and practical tips, from using Facebook groups and Production Hub to find local talent, to creating eye-catching specialized reels for cinematographers. Plus, they highlight why being a jack-of-all-trades is a filmmaker’s secret weapon. It’s all about staying flexible and thinking on your feet in the ever-changing world of production. Tune in for some great stories, pro tips, and a chance to share your own experiences with the hosts! Takeaways Assembling crews in unfamiliar locations is a common challenge. Facebook groups remain a valuable resource for finding crews. Specialized reels are crucial for cinematographers to showcase relevant work. Producers should be clear and concise in their requests to potential hires. Honing skills in various roles enhances a producer's effectiveness. Understanding local laws and conditions is vital for safety on set. Networking through established relationships can streamline crew assembly. Budget constraints often require producers to wear multiple hats. Engaging with the audience can lead to valuable insights and discussions. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success in filmmaking. Links Go Creative Show BC Media Productions Ben's band Three Second Chances

Sep 27, 2024 • 33min
Is iPhone 16 the Next Cinema Camera, Tech’s Impact on Filmmaking, Apologies and Reintroductions
In this episode of The Go Creative Show, host Ben Consoli and producer Connor Crosby discuss the recent hiatus of the podcast, their busy schedules, and the future direction of the show. They explore the impact of new technology, particularly the iPhone 16 camera capabilities, on the filmmaking industry. The conversation delves into whether iPhones can replace professional cameras, real-world applications of iPhone filmmaking, and the accessibility of filmmaking tools. They also reflect on the evolution of filmmaking equipment and the importance of skill in the industry. Links: Go Creative Show Website BC Media Productions Website Three Second Chances (Ben's New Band)

Jun 4, 2024 • 37min
Baby Reindeer Cinematography (with Krzysztof Trojnar) GCS331
Cinematographer Krzysztof Trojnar discusses his work on the Netflix show Baby Reindeer, sharing insights into the visual approach, using the Alexa LF Mini camera package, lens choices, and creating a sense of claustrophobia in cinematography. He also delves into the challenges of depicting drug use and the impact of AI tools on the industry. CONNECT WITH US Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/gocreativeshowpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gocreativeshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocreativeshow

Sep 21, 2023 • 59min
Winning Time Season 2 Cinematography (with Todd Banhazl, Ricardo Diaz, and John Matysiak) GCS330
WINNING TIME season 2 director and cinematographer Todd Banhazl joins cinematographers John Matysiak and Ricardo Diaz to discuss their use of mixed formats to create an authentic '80s aesthetic. They shed light on their collaboration in bringing the Celtics vs. Lakers rivalry to life on screen, their seamless blend of drama and humor, collaboration as cinematographers, and Todd's story of going from cinematographer to director. Subscribe Now! Subscribe + Follow Go Creative Show Twitter Facebook Apple Podcasts Stitcher Google Play Podcasts iHeart Radio YouTube Show Links WINNING TIME season 2 WINNING TIME IMDb Our Winning Time season 1 interview with Todd Banhazl and Mihai Malaimare Jr. Follow Our Guests Ricardo Diaz’s IMDb Todd Banhazl’s IMDb John Matysiak’s IMDb Follow Ben Consoli BC Media Productions BenConsoli.com Twitter Instagram Follow Connor Crosby (producer) Ignition Visuals' website

Sep 6, 2023 • 51min
Gran Turismo Cinematography (with Jacques Jouffret) GCS329
GRAN TURISMO director of photography Jacques Jouffret shares his adrenaline-inducing visual approach to creating this gripping and authentic racing film. We discuss his meticulous approach to capturing the racing world's intensity, blending realism and authenticity without relying on heavy VFX. Also find out about his meticulous approach to recreating the pivotal Nürburgring crash and much more. Subscribe Now! Go Creative Show is supported by: Sony VENICE Subscribe + Follow Go Creative Show Twitter Facebook Apple Podcasts Stitcher Google Play Podcasts iHeart Radio YouTube Show Links Gran Turismo IMDb Follow Our Guest Jacques Jouffret IMDb Follow Ben Consoli BC Media Productions BenConsoli.com Twitter Instagram Follow Connor Crosby (producer) Ignition Visuals' website

Aug 24, 2023 • 49min
The Righteous Gemstones Cinematography (with Paul Daley) GCS328
THE RIGHTEOUS GEMSTONES director of photography Paul Daley breaks down his visual approach to season 3. We discuss the various camera movement, lighting, and lensing tricks he used to advance the latest season. Find out how the lotus scene was shot practically, how Paul makes studio sets look real, and so much more. Subscribe Now! What you will learn in this episode Shooting the Locust scene practically (02:26) Visual approach to season 3 (07:45) Using both Signature and Supreme lenses (16:35) Camera movement and lighting (20:35) Approach to night exteriors (25:33) Practical locations vs sets (29:12) Filming the racecar and monster truck scenes (36:43) Paul's favorite scene in season 3 (41:14) And more! Subscribe + Follow Go Creative Show Twitter Facebook Apple Podcasts Stitcher Google Play Podcasts iHeart Radio YouTube Show Links The Righteous Gemstones on MAX Follow Ben Consoli BC Media Productions BenConsoli.com Twitter Instagram Follow Connor Crosby (producer) Ignition Visuals' website

May 26, 2023 • 58min
The Little Mermaid Cinematography (with Deon Beebe ACS ASC) GCS327
Disney's live-action adaptation of THE LITTLE MERMAID is a beautiful retelling of the beloved animated film. It's filled with the characters and songs you love while keeping it fresh and modern. Director of photography Deon Beebe ACS ASC shares how they used incredible rigs to pull off the spectaular underwater scenes. Deon and Go Creative Show host, Ben Consoli, discuss the inspriation from BBC's BLUE PLANET series, using different lens types above and below the water, cinematography tricks used when Ariel can't speak, why the Italian coast was perfect to portray the Caribbean, and so much more. Subscribe Now! What you will learn in this episode Bringing the animated film to life (03:26) Being inspired by BBC's BLUE PLANET (08:15) Filming the underwater world (11:30) Putting actors in rigs to simulate swimming (18:18) Using different lenses for above and below water (25:57) Why THE LITTLE MERMAID is so dark (28:11) Turning an Italian beach into the Caribbean (32:26) Why the underwater scenes were so difficult (40:33) Filming the shipwreck scenes (42:37) Cinematography tricks used when Ariel can't speak (46:01) Filming Under The Sea musical number (52:36) Dion's thoughts on the visual effects (54:27) And more! Subscribe + Follow Go Creative Show Twitter Facebook Apple Podcasts Stitcher Google Play Podcasts iHeart Radio YouTube Show Links THE LITTLE MERMAID (2023) trailer THE LITTLE MERMAID on IMDb Follow Our Guest Dion Beebe’s Instagram Dion Beebe’s IMDb Follow Ben Consoli BC Media Productions BenConsoli.com Twitter Instagram Follow Connor Crosby (producer) Ignition Visuals' website