The Filmmaker’s Playbook

Welcome to episode #28 of The Filmmaker's Playbook, hosted by writer-director Jason Branagan.--On today’s show I talk to actor, Natalia Kostrzewa. Some of Natalia’s credits include Line of Duty, Krypton, Rosie, The Cured and one of Netflix’s biggest TV shows, Fool Me Once. She also runs Owning It Acting Studio in London and she’ll next appear in BBC’s Casualty and ITV’s Out There.--In our conversation we discuss how Natalia came to acting through poetry, how being a Polish actor has shaped her career, actor training, self tapes, navigating life as an artist and minding our mental health, how to define success and much more.--The purpose of this podcast is to give a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the filmmaking process and to make real-world, educational information about filmmaking and film careers accessible to everyone at zero-cost, so whether you're a casual film fan, an aspiring filmmaker, or a seasoned professional, I hope you enjoy today's episode and learn something interesting in the process.--If you're enjoying the podcast, please share, follow and rate the show.--If you have comments, questions or topics you'd like covered on the podcast follow us and leave a comment on instagram @thefilmmakersplaybookpodcast--Follow Jason on instagram @jasonbranagandirectorFollow Natalia on instagram @natalia.kostrzewa85Follow Owning It Acting Studio on instagram @owningitactingstudio  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, director Daniel O'Hara shares his journey from magazine TV to acclaimed projects like "Doctor Who" and "The Stranger." He discusses the importance of mentorship and resourcefulness in filmmaking. Daniel emphasizes effective pitching and collaboration, revealing how he works with actors to create chemistry on set. He also opens up about the joys and challenges of freelance directing, offering advice to aspiring filmmakers about trusting their instincts and navigating both television and film projects.

Welcome to episode #26 of The Filmmaker's Playbook, hosted by writer-director Jason Branagan.--On today’s show I talk to writer and director, Phil Hawkins. Some of Phil’s credits include his epic Star Wars fan film, Star Wars: Origins, Prancer: A Christmas Tale for Universal Studios and the family, action-adventure film Robin and The Hoods for Sky Studios, starring Oscar-nominee, Naomie Harris.--In our conversation we talk about how Phil got started in the industry, the making of Star Wars: Origins, what exactly is meant by a director’s voice and we deep dive into the making of his brand new film, Robin and The Hoods, which was released on Sky Cinema on July 26th, discussing how he prepped, cast his child performers, communicated his vision to his team and much, much more--The purpose of this podcast is to give a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the filmmaking process and to make real-world, educational information about filmmaking and film careers accessible to everyone at zero-cost, so whether you're a casual film fan, an aspiring filmmaker, or a seasoned professional, I hope you enjoy today's episode and learn something interesting in the process.--If you're enjoying the podcast, please share, follow and rate the show.--If you have comments, questions or topics you'd like covered on the podcast follow us and leave a comment on instagram @thefilmmakersplaybookpodcast--Follow Jason on instagram @jasonbranagandirectorFollow Phil on instagram @philmblogGo behind the scenes with Phil at his YouTube channel and learn how he preps and directs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helena Walsh, an international voice, acting, and empowerment coach, founded Helena Walsh Empowerment Studios and co-created "The Actor’s Practice." In this discussion, she shares insights on the impact of the nervous system on performance and techniques for nurturing a trusting environment in acting. Helena also dives into the importance of imagery and imagination, emphasizing the need for authenticity in character connection. Furthermore, she addresses the interplay between personal identity and the acting profession, urging actors to find balance beyond their careers.

Cinematographer JJ Rolfe, known for his work on films like "Dublin Old School" and various TV shows, shares his inspiring journey from engineering to film. He emphasizes the significance of collaboration and maintaining a positive atmosphere on set. JJ discusses the challenges of transitioning to full-time cinematography, navigating rejection, and the importance of preparation. He also highlights the emotional aspects of filmmaking and the impact of storytelling in both film and television. A fascinating insight into the art and craft of cinematography!

Welcome to episode #23 of The Filmmaker's Playbook, hosted by writer-director Jason Branagan.--On today’s show I talk to actor and writer, Jade Jordan. Jade’s credits include Blackshore, TWIG, You Are Not My Mother, KIN, Northern Lights and more. She wrote and starred in the IFTA nominated short film, The Color Between and in 2021 published her first book, Nanny, Ma and Me. --In our conversation we discuss the musical Annie, how Jade got started in film and television, going to drama school, self taping, making The Color Between, an actors preparation and collaborating with directors.--The purpose of this podcast is to give a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the filmmaking process and to make real-world, educational information about filmmaking and film careers accessible to everyone at zero-cost, so whether you're a casual film fan, an aspiring filmmaker, or a seasoned professional, I hope you enjoy today's episode and learn something interesting in the process.--If you're enjoying the podcast, please share, follow and rate the show.--If you have comments, questions or topics you'd like covered on the podcast follow us and leave a comment on instagram @thefilmmakersplaybookpodcast--Follow Jason on instagram @jasonbranagandirectorFollow Jade on instagram @msjade.jordan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to episode #22 of The Filmmaker's Playbook, hosted by writer-director Jason Branagan.--On today’s show I talk to creative consultant and filmmaker, Des Doyle. Des started his career in the camera department working on films like Reign of Fire, The Ringer, Ordinary Decent Criminal before making his acclaimed feature length documentary, Showrunners. He also works extensively as an educator and a creative consultant, helping production companies and writers navigate the television marketplace.--In our conversation we discuss how Des got started in the camera department, the genesis of the film Showrunners,  why LOST changed the way we think about TV, the supportiveness of the Irish film and television community, the challenges facing writers today, and much more.--The purpose of this podcast is to give a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the filmmaking process and to make real-world, educational information about filmmaking and film careers accessible to everyone at zero-cost, so whether you're a casual film fan, an aspiring filmmaker, or a seasoned professional, I hope you enjoy today's episode and learn something interesting in the process.--If you're enjoying the podcast, please share, follow and rate the show.--If you have comments, questions or topics you'd like covered on the podcast follow us and leave a comment on instagram @thefilmmakersplaybookpodcast--Follow Jason on instagram @jasonbranagandirectorFollow Des on instagram @desdoylefilms  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to episode #21 of The Filmmaker's Playbook, hosted by writer-director Jason Branagan.--On today’s show I talk to Academy-award and Emmy-award winning director, writer and producer, Edward Zwick. Ed’s credits include Glory, Legends of the Fall, The Siege, Courage Under Fire, Blood Diamond, The Last Samurai and Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, amongst many others. --In our conversation we discuss Ed’s must-read book, Hits, Flops and Other Illusions. We cover a wide array of topics including how he approaches writing, the notes process, how he facilitates his rehearsals to deliver award-winning performances, how he works with his composers and much, much more. --The purpose of this podcast is to give a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the filmmaking process and to make real-world, educational information about filmmaking and film careers accessible to everyone at zero-cost, so whether you're a casual film fan, an aspiring filmmaker, or a seasoned professional, I hope you enjoy today's episode and learn something interesting in the process.--If you're enjoying the podcast, please share, follow and rate the show.--If you have comments, questions or topics you'd like covered on the podcast follow us and leave a comment on instagram @thefilmmakersplaybookpodcast--Follow Jason on instagram @jasonbranagandirectorFollow Ed on instagram @ed_zwick_official  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insightful discussion, Carley Armstrong, a script supervisor and emerging producer known for her work on 'Slow Horses' and 'Ferrari', shares her journey in the film industry. She provides valuable tips on becoming a script supervisor and navigating the challenges of freelancing. Carley emphasizes the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and self-reflection for personal growth. The conversation also touches upon her upcoming projects, showcasing how community and networking elevate independent filmmakers.

Conor Morrissey, an accomplished director known for his work on 'EastEnders' and 'Red Rock', shares his journey from acting to directing. He discusses the intricacies of transitioning from documentaries to drama, revealing lessons learned along the way. Conor emphasizes the vital role of character development in pitching projects and the collaborative nature of directing dynamic scenes. He also touches on the significance of music in filmmaking, showcasing how it enhances emotional storytelling and strengthens crew collaboration.