The No Film School Podcast

In this episode of No Film School, Jason Hellerman interviews Tyler Nielsen and Michael Schwartz, the dynamic directing duo behind the bold and provocative film Los Frikis. Known for their previous success with Peanut Butter Falcon, Tyler and Michael take listeners on a journey into the making of their latest project—a darkly comedic and deeply human tale about the Los Frikis generation in 1990s Cuba. The film explores themes of rebellion, freedom, and survival, centering on punks who willfully injected HIV to escape oppression.In this episode, No Film School’s Jason Hellerman, Tyler Nielsen, and Michael Schwartz discuss: How Tyler and Michael transitioned from Peanut Butter Falcon to Los Frikis The challenge of balancing dark humor with historical and cultural authenticity Why the directors learned Spanish to ensure authenticity in directing Cuban actors Their approach to punk rock aesthetics, both musically and visually, in the film Practical advice for filmmakers tackling deeply unconventional and emotional stories Memorable Quotes: “Punk rock is choosing freedom and choosing, like, your reality, regardless of the authorities or the powers that be.” “If you task the audience with remembering 10 things, they might remember the wrong five. So we focused on the five things that mattered most.” “We really just try to set a vibe. The vibe matches the story. And then we invite people to bring themselves to it.” Resources: Microbudget Workshop with GG Hawkins Tyler Nielsen IMDb Michael Schwartz IMDb Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman delve into the often-overlooked role of producers and the essential work they perform behind the scenes. They are joined by Emmy-nominated producer Carolina Groppa, who shares insights from her remarkable career. The episode also highlights key films from the newly announced Sundance 2025 slate, offering reflections on the festival’s evolving influence.Meet Carolina Groppa: Carolina is an Emmy-nominated producer who was previously the Executive in Charge of Production at Issa Rae’s HOORAE Media and ColorCreative. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Carolina moved to the US as a child, and her immigrant upbringing inspired her to work hard to build the career of her dreams.Carolina produced the 2017 Emmy-nominated feature documentary AUTISM IN LOVE, which explores how adults with autism find and navigate romantic relationships. Passionate about supporting female filmmakers, she was a co-producer on Netflix’s MISS VIRGINIA, starring Uzo Aduba, and IFC’s THE FEMALE BRAIN, Whitney Cummings’ directorial debut. She was a physical producer on Amazon’s SYLVIE'S LOVE, starring Tessa Thompson and Nnamdi Asomugha, and the UPM/EP on Adamma Ebo’s 2022 Sundance hit HONK FOR JESUS. SAVE YOUR SOUL, starring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown.She also produced the documentaries HYSTERICAL (2020) for FX and THE HONORABLE: SHYNE (2024) for Hulu. Additionally, she is the creator, host, and producer of ANGLE ON PRODUCERS, a podcast spotlighting producers across entertainment. A love letter to the creative community, the show boasts over 95 episodes and has featured notable guests such as Eva Longoria, Stephanie Allain, Lynette Howell Taylor, and Cynthia Erivo.In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and Carolina Groppa discuss: Carolina Groppa’s career journey, from her early days as an actor to becoming a producer and podcast host The invisible yet critical role of producers and why their contributions are often misunderstood Practical advice for emerging producers, including navigating challenges and building strong collaborations Reflections on the 2025 Sundance slate, including standout films like Sorry Baby and Dead Lover How trust and leadership shape successful filmmaking partnerships Memorable Quotes: “Producing is about choices. It’s never just about saying no; it’s about saying, ‘Here’s what we can do with what we have.’” “The only thing people remember is how you made them feel on set. If you can lead with kindness and clarity, that’s what sticks.” “Sundance is where you see the future of storytelling take shape, and this year’s slate is no exception.” Resources: Carolina Groppa’s Podcast: Angle on Producers Carolina’s IMDb: Carolina Groppa Carolina on Instagram: @carolinagroppa Learn more about the Sundance Film Festival: Sundance 2025 Highlighted Sundance Films: Sorry Baby: A heartfelt indie produced by Pastel, Barry Jenkins’ company Dead Lover: Directed and written by Grace Glowicki, featuring Ben Petrie, and described as “genre-bending and unforgettable” Lose: A poignant drama set in Hong Kong about a man searching for his daughter Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, host GG Hawkins and tech editor Jordan Aldridge are joined by two incredible guests: filmmaker Leah Saint Marie and award-winning director Lizzy Born. The discussion delves into the challenges of navigating the indie film world, the stress of festival notification season, and creative approaches to career-building in a competitive industry. Both guests share personal stories, practical advice, and insights on how to push boundaries in filmmaking.In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jordan Aldridge, Leah Saint Marie, and Lizzy Born discuss: Leah Saint Marie’s journey from projectionist to filmmaker and her strategies for staying resilient in “festival purgatory” The challenges of navigating FYC campaigns as an indie filmmaker Lizzy Born’s approach to directing, from Ziwe to branded content, and how she balances dark humor with social commentary Practical advice for emerging filmmakers, including the importance of collaboration and creating your own opportunities The inaugural Indies Awards, celebrating independent films outside of mainstream festival circuits Memorable Quotes: “No one else is telling you no, except yourself. If you haven’t made a movie or written a script and you’re afraid to do it, do it anyway.” (39:44) “This job is about community. Finding your community of people who feel like they are in the same space as you is so essential.” (1:16:32) “Sometimes I wish I didn’t know as much... You’re going to do it in a fresh way because you don’t know what you’re referencing.” (1:19:50) Resources:Leah’s Podcast: Pitch! A Screenwriting PodcastLeah on X (formerly Twitter): @leahwelch19Leah’s IMDb:Leah Saint MarieLizzy’s Website: Lizzy BornLizzy’s Instagram: @LizzyB0rnRead reviews of Ziwe: Variety on ZiweFind No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, hosts GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman are joined by filmmakers and programmers Erin Brown Thomas, Jillian Corsie, and Rafael Leyva to discuss the current state of short films. They dive into the challenges, creativity, and evolving landscape of the medium, exploring how short films serve as a crucial platform for experimentation and storytelling.In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman discuss: The current climate for short films in the industry, including programming and distribution challenges How filmmakers like Erin, Jillian, and Rafael are innovating within the short film format The role of short films as both creative playgrounds and stepping stones for larger projects Programming insights from festivals like Salute Your Shorts and Slamdance Personal experiences creating impactful shorts, including Tooth and The Foster Ranch Memorable Quotes: “Short films are such a cool outlet. If there’s any upcoming filmmakers out there, it’s such a great way to tell a story in a little time, and people have no idea how difficult that is.” (10:31) “Shorts are this wonderful playground for creativity and trying new things.” (32:11) “There’s a certain level of experimentation in shorts, and that’s why I think, even if I’m four features into my career, there might still be room for me to make shorts.” (32:11) Resources: Tooth Short Film Erin Brown Thomas on Instagram: @erinbrownthomas_filmmaker Erin on TikTok: @erinbrownthomas_film Jillian Corsie on Instagram: @jcorsie Salute Your Shorts on TikTok: @salute_your_shorts The Foster Ranch Trailer: The Foster Ranch Rafael Leyva's Website: RLEYVADP.COM Versatile Assassins Films Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, hosts GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman explore the craft of cinematic monologues and discuss how these powerful moments can elevate films. They also sit down with director David Gordon Green, whose latest holiday family film, Nutcrackers, debuts on Hulu. David shares his process of crafting a heartfelt and improvisational movie built around four real-life brothers, discussing how his indie roots continue to shape his creative approach.In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman discuss: The craft of writing and performing memorable movie monologues Iconic monologues from The Godfather, Network, Cabin in the Woods, Scent of a Woman, and more David Gordon Green’s process of reverse-engineering Nutcrackers around its young, untrained stars Why David values improvisation and naturalism in his filmmaking Advice for indie filmmakers about creating economically viable films while staying true to their creative vision Memorable Quotes: “When you’re writing a great monologue, you’re giving actors a reason to want to say those words and embody that character.” (4:21) “The movie became just a sculpture of things I want to see.” (22:54) “There’s only one you, and you have to be that as loud as you can.” (45:00) Resources: The 25 Best Movie Monologues Watch Nutcrackers on Hulu GG Hawkins' Instagram: @LostinGraceland Jason Hellerman’s Twitter: @JasonHellerman David Gordon Green’s IMDb: David Gordon Green Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of No Film School, host GG Hawkins sits down with Jason Hellerman and special guest Matthew Starr, the creator of the Audible original series The Best Man's Ghostwriter. They delve into the creative process behind the audio series, which is described as an American version of Love Actually for audio, starring Glenn Powell and Nicholas Braun. Matthew shares how he transformed his experience as a ghostwriter for best man speeches into a compelling and humorous narrative.The discussion also explores the genre of World War II films. Jason, Matthew, and GG each discuss their favorite WWII movies, sparking a conversation about the role these films play in culture and history.In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and Matthew Starr discuss: Matthew Starr's journey creating The Best Man’s Ghostwriter, from its early concept to Audible production Adapting personal experiences into a scripted audio series Challenges and advantages of creating an episodic narrative in the audio format A discussion on their favorite World War II movies, including The Longest Day, Band of Brothers, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Jojo Rabbit How WWII movies have shaped film culture and continue to resonate with audiences Memorable Quotes: “Narrative audio is such a vibrant medium—it's about figuring out how to make it fun and engaging to listen to.” (15:18) “Band of Brothers really captures the experience of fighting and surviving in WWII, unlike anything else.” (07:04) “If you just want to see Nazis getting killed, go watch Sisu. One grizzled old man takes on a team of Nazis, and it’s incredible.” (11:15) Resources: Top World War II Movies Matthew Starr’s Website: MatthewSStarr.com Follow Matthew on Instagram: @matthewsstarr Listen to The Best Man’s Ghostwriter on Audible Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, GG Hawkins sits down with editor Celia Beasley to discuss her role in shaping Penelope, the new episodic series by the Duplass Brothers, now on Netflix. They explore the unique process of editing an episodic series that was shot like an indie film and edited entirely in the cloud. Celia shares her experiences of working outside major film hubs and the impact of community on her career. Through insightful conversations on editing, storytelling, and collaboration, Celia reveals her creative process and what it means to find success beyond New York and LA.In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Celia Beasley discuss: Transitioning from still photography to filmmaking and discovering editing as a storytelling tool Navigating the industry outside of major film hubs and the importance of a supportive community The unique challenges of editing Penelope, including cloud-based editing and handling extensive footage Using editing techniques to convey the protagonist's journey, especially in time-compressed scenes Advice for emerging filmmakers on trusting instincts, building collaborative relationships, and allowing a film to develop organically Memorable Quotes: “Editing is not an afterthought. It’s the last chance for the film to be the best version of itself.” (46:44) “In the edit, I feel like I’m getting a giant bin of Legos, and it’s up to me to put the pieces together to make it all work.” (30:24) “It’s okay to ask questions, especially as an editor. I need to understand the vision, and I’m here to serve that.” (52:16) “People outside of New York and LA are in film for the love of it; we’re doing it because we’re passionate.” (12:32) Resources: Celia Beasley’s Website: CeliaBeasley.com Celia on Instagram: @CeliaBeasley_Films Netflix Series Penelope: Watch on Netflix Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host GG Hawkins hosts a roundtable discussion with microbudget filmmakers at the Austin Film Festival. They share their journeys of creating feature films under tight budgets and high personal stakes. Each filmmaker provides insight into the emotional, physical, and financial tolls of producing indie films while managing personal challenges. Despite the struggles, their stories are underscored by the resilience and camaraderie that helped them see their projects through.The discussion touches on how these filmmakers greenlit their own projects, self-funded, and navigated logistical and emotional hurdles. From crafting stories inspired by personal traumas to relying on a supportive community to rally resources, the episode reveals what it truly takes to complete a microbudget film. The filmmakers open up about facing setbacks, from COVID shutdowns to creative crises, while pushing forward in pursuit of their vision.Panelists featured in this episode include:Sisters Sarah Khasrovi (Story By, Lead) Susie Yankou (Writer/Director, Lead)  Lady Parts Bonnie Gross (Screenwriter, Executive Producer) Edith Belmont (Editor) Young King Bryant T Griffin (Writer, Director) Selena Leoni, p.g.a. (Producer) CrosswordMichael Vlamis (Co-writer, Director, Producer, and Actor)The Ego Death of Queen Cecilia Travis White (Producer) Jo Schaeffer (Lead, Producer) In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with indie filmmakers to discuss: The personal inspiration behind their microbudget films Emotional and physical tolls in the process of making a low-budget film Strategies for overcoming logistical challenges, from location scouting to equipment sourcing The importance of a supportive filmmaking community in DIY film production How each filmmaker dealt with setbacks and moments of doubt Key lessons from their experiences in indie filmmaking at AFF Memorable Quotes: “If I was going to do this and fail, it would be good to have a support system around us.” (20:10) “Making the movie, getting picture lock… you’re only 60% there.” (44:13) “It’s like a constant vulnerability. It’s like cutting yourself open and letting your guts out every day.” (25:27) “I don’t know if I’ll do this again… It’s incredible, but the toll is so high.” (50:42) Resources: Austin Film Festival GG Hawkins' Micro-Budget Filmmaking Newsletter: @LostinGraceland on Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Celebrating Halloween, this special episode dives into the indie horror-comedy Booger, an unconventional story that combines grief, body horror, and dark humor. Director Mary Dauterman, editor Kyle Moriarty, and lead actor Grace Glowicki share the creative and logistical challenges they faced bringing this unique film to life. From crafting a cat-human transformation story inspired by loss to the collaborative spirit on set, they reveal how to keep indie film projects grounded in vision, even on a tight budget.Mary Dauterman is a director and writer making her feature debut with Booger, a horror-comedy that blends humor and body horror to explore themes of grief. With a background in illustration and advertising, Mary brings a unique visual style to her work, making her voice distinct in the indie film scene.Kyle Moriarty is an editor known for his collaborative approach to indie projects, often working closely with directors to capture unique tones and pacing. His work on Booger helped shape the film’s unsettling, humorous edge, bringing out the full impact of its horror-comedy fusion.Grace Glowicki is an actor and filmmaker acclaimed for her physical, transformative performances. In Booger, she brings the role to life through meticulous body language, channeling both horror and humor in the character’s journey of transformation.In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with Mary Dauterman, Kyle Moriarty, and Grace Glowicki to discuss: The inspiration behind Booger, blending dark themes with horror and humor How the 2020 lockdown shaped the film’s themes of grief and loneliness Mary Dauterman’s transition from shorts to her debut feature film and what that entailed The creative approach to body horror, from prosthetics to unique camera techniques How editor Kyle Moriarty’s previous collaboration with Mary Dauterman influenced the edit’s tone and pacing Grace Glowicki’s physical preparation for the role, embodying the character’s transformation Managing DIY effects on a low budget  Memorable Quotes: “Writing it during lockdown and writing it being like super isolated, these themes of grief and loneliness started creeping in.” (04:18) “I decided to storyboard the entire film all the way through, which was crazy, but I'm really glad I did it because I think I could pay attention to certain things like: how does the film feel visually?” (12:12) “Our specialty lenses were called a lens baby, which is kind of like a lens with an accordion and you can push it all around and the focus falls and it looks really unsettling.” (14:06) “The biggest challenge was we were shooting like July into August and turns out prosthetics melt.” (24:48) “It's a little bit like the more seriously we take her cat behavior and transformation and just all that grossness… the funnier it is.” (30:52) “I was getting these poster designs that I was like, what? No. I'm going to do this myself. So I went a little nuts.” (46:20) Resources:Booger on IMDbFollow Mary Dauterman on InstagramMary Dauterman on IMDbMary Dauterman’s websiteKyle Moriarty on IMDbKyle Moriarty’s websiteGrace Glowicki on IMDbFind No Film School everywhere:On the Webhttps://nofilmschool.com/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/nofilmschoolTwitterhttps://twitter.com/nofilmschoolYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschoolInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/nofilmschoolSend us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to go from indie filmmaking on a shoestring budget to working with legends like Sam Raimi? Andrew Kightlinger’s journey from Madagascar to Hollywood shows how personal experiences shape a filmmaker’s voice. Filmmakers Adam Schindler and Brian Netto share how they moved from microbudget horror films to collaborating with one of the industry’s icons. This episode explores the highs and lows of filmmaking, from preparation and improvisation to building trust on set. Andrew Kightlinger grew up surrounded by the vibrant landscapes of Madagascar, which ignited his passion for filmmaking. Now directing in Hollywood, his films, like Lost on a Mountain in Maine, showcase his ability to merge personal experiences with visually captivating storytelling. Lost on a Mountain in Maine releases on November 1. Adam Schindler and Brian Netto began their filmmaking journey with microbudget horror, mastering the craft of tension and suspense. Their latest film, Don’t Move, produced by Sam Raimi, is set to release on October 25, 2024 on Netflix, proving that powerful stories don’t require massive budgets In today’s episode, No Film School’s Jason Hellerman and GG Hawkins speak with Andrew Kightlinger, Adam Schindler, and Brian Netto to discuss: Andrew Kightlinger’s journey from Madagascar to Hollywood How his upbringing influenced Lost on a Mountain in Maine The need for preparation and improvisation with tight budgets Schindler and Netto’s move from micro budget films to working with Sam Raimi on Don’t Move Creating real-time horror with minimal voiceover and non-linear techniques The role of trust and collaboration in elevating a project   Memorable Quotes: “The big lesson I learned in that movie was who not to work with, and I won't go into more detail than that, but I think that's a very important lesson in a collaborative field like ours.” (12:03) “I believe that filmmaking is preparation. Like bar none, that's what your job as a director is to do. So prepare because it's gonna be chaos when you start shooting.” (18:02)  “I knew what I wanted the film to be. And then I also storyboarded the whole movie just with stick figures. I just had an iPad and I drew out all the really complicated stuff to the best of my ability.” (20:06) “He's the consummate collaborator, like… horror icon, but also like one of the best script to screen notes… he lives up to all of it.” (45:22) “We became directors together. Our passion for film began together. We founded together. I think the things that we enjoy are slightly different. We like the same movies, but we also have different tastes.” (55:17) “I think the filmmaking part of it is the fun part and the easy part. It's all the other things that you have to juggle and have the temperament for and the stomach for and the patience for and all those sorts of things.” (1:04:26)  Resources:Follow Andrew Kightlinger on Instagram Andrew on IMDb Lost on a Mountain in Maine on IMDb Adam Schindler on IMDb Follow Adam on Instagram Brian Netto on IMDb Follow Brian on Instagram Don’t Move on IMDB  Find No Film School everywhere:On the Webhttps://nofilmschool.com/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool Twitterhttps://twitter.com/nofilmschool YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices