The Filmmakers Podcast

Gareth Evans - 'Havoc', 'The Raid' and 'Gangs of London' Director and writer on his process.Welcome back to The Filmmakers Podcast, where we delve deep into the world of cinema with the artists who bring unforgettable stories to the screen. This week, your host, Giles Alderson, is beyond excited to welcome a true master of action and suspense, the phenomenal director Gareth Evans!Gareth Evans isn't just a director; he's a cinematic force. He exploded onto the global stage with his groundbreaking martial arts epics: the bone-jarring and genre-redefining The Raid: Redemption, and its critically acclaimed, relentless sequel, The Raid 2. These films, with their breathtakingly brutal and intricately choreographed action sequences, have left an indelible mark on filmmaking worldwide, inspiring countless others. Beyond the Raid saga, Gareth also helmed the atmospheric and unsettling folk-horror Apostle for Netflix, showcasing his impressive range. Furthermore, his incredible work as a creator, writer, and director on the critically acclaimed and intensely visceral TV series Gangs of London has further solidified his reputation for crafting compelling narratives and delivering impactful action on any scale.Now, Gareth returns to the big screen with his highly anticipated action-thriller, Havoc, featuring the immense talent of Tom Hardy. Hardy, a powerhouse performer known for his captivating and intense roles in films like Mad Max: Fury Road, The Dark Knight Rises, Inception, and Peaky Blinders, takes center stage in this gripping story. Joining Hardy in the stellar cast of Havoc are the incredibly talented Forest Whitaker (Oscar winner for The Last King of Scotland), Timothy Olyphant (known for his roles in Justified and Deadwood), Justin Cornwell (Training Day TV series), and Luis Guzmán (Boogie Nights, Narcos). Join Dom Lenoir and Gareth for an in-depth conversation about the making of Havoc. They'll explore the collaborative process of working with a talent like Tom Hardy and the rest of the impressive cast, the evolution of Gareth's signature action choreography within a new narrative framework, the challenges and rewards of bringing such a high-stakes thriller to life, and his insights gained from his remarkable journey in film and television, including his groundbreaking work on Gangs of London. This is an absolute must-listen for anyone passionate about action cinema, the craft of directing, the art of performance, or the genius of Gareth Evans. Let's welcome the extraordinary Gareth Evans to The Filmmakers Podcast!"HAVOC is OUT in CINEMAS now.----FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference!PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on the show, we’re joined by the brilliant James Hawes - director of Slow Horses, Black Mirror, and One Life - alongside the wonderfully talented Caitríona Balfe, acclaimed for her Golden Globe-nominated performance in Outlander and her standout role in Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast. They each sat down with host Dom Lenoir to dive into their latest feature film, The Amateur (2025), an edge-of-your-seat espionage thriller starring Rami Malek, Jon Bernthal, and Rachel Brosnahan. In this wide-ranging conversation, they explore: How the project came together The challenges and logistics of shooting a globe-trotting action thriller Finding the right tone: balancing emotional depth with high-stakes genre storytelling Directing and acting insights from two masters of their craft Collaborating under pressure ...and so much more. Enjoy!THE AMATEUR is out NOW | TrailerWhen his supervisors at the CIA refuse to take action after his wife is killed in a London terrorist attack, a decoder takes matters into his own hands.FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference!PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonEdited by @tobiasveesLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

She's an actress who commands the screen with her intelligence, intensity, and undeniable presence, bringing complex characters to life with remarkable depth. Please welcome the incredibly talented Natalie Dormer!Known for her unforgettable roles as the cunning Anne Boleyn in "The Tudors," the politically astute Margaery Tyrell in "Game of Thrones," the rebellious Cressida in "The Hunger Games" franchise, and her captivating performances in films like "Picnic at Hanging Rock," "The Professor and the Madman," and her recent work in "Penny Dreadful: City of Angels," Natalie has consistently delivered powerful and nuanced performances across film, television, and even video games. We'll be discussing her diverse career, her meticulous approach to character development, her work as a screenwriter and producer, and her latest projects, delving into the nuances of her craft and exploring the stories that resonate with her.Ami Mann is an award-winning TV and film writer/director and fiction writer. Her most recent film, Audrey’s Children, was released theatrically on March 28, 2025.  Set in 1969 Philadelphia, the film stars Natalie Dormer as Dr. Audrey Evans, the revolutionary pediatric oncologist who gained worldwide recognition for her groundbreaking work in treating children with neuroblastoma.   Mann’s passion for filmmaking comes through her body work across both the big and small screen. Her debut feature film Morning won several festival awards, and her follow-up Texas Killing Fields, starring Jessica Chastain, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and Chloe Grace Moretz, was nominated for the Golden Lion at the 68th Venice International Film Festival. Additionally, her film Jackie and Ryan, starring Ben Barnes and Katherine Heigl was nominated for the Orizzonti at the 71st Venice International Film Festival. Her feature film   In television/streaming, Mann’s pilot episode block of the Netflix series In From the Cold reached Netflix’s Top 10 in the US and internationally. Other series directing work includes House of Cards, Shots Fired and Sneaky Pete. Her episode of Friday Night Lights, “I Can’t”, received a Television Academy Honors Award for Television with a Conscience. And we’re lucky to chat with her today about how she brought her latest indie film, Audrey’s Children, to life.AUDREY'S CHILDREN is out NOW | Trailer1969. Dr. Audrey Evans joins a world-renowned children's hospital and battles sexism, medical conventions, and the subterfuge of her peers to develop revolutionary treatments and purchase the first Ronald McDonald House, impacting millions.FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference!PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonEdited by @tobiasveesLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s special episode, we welcome not one but two incredible guests to the show: Nicholas Stoller, writer-director of the comedy film You're Cordially Invited (2025), starring Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon, and Seth Gordon, writer-director of the action-comedy Back in Action (2025), starring Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz. They each sat down individually with Dom Lenoir to chat about their movies, including: Writing and directing a successful comedy The actor-director collaboration on a comedy Making comedies in 2025 The challenges of shooting action scenes And much more! Tune in for an insightful and entertaining conversation with two masters of comedy and action!YOU'RE CORDIALLY INVITED is out NOW | TrailerWhen two weddings are double-booked at the same venue, the father of one bride and the sister of the other bride try to preserve the wedding weekend.BACK IN ACTION is out NOW | TrailerFormer CIA spies Emily and Matt are pulled back into espionage after their secret identities are exposed.FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference!PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonEdited by @tobiasveesLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we welcome the brilliant creative team behind the highly entertaining and thought-provoking feature film Companion (2025): writer-director Drew Hancock and editors Brett W. Bachman & Josh Ethier. They sat down with our hosts, Giles Alderson & Dom Lenoir, for a fantastic conversation about the filmmaking process - diving deep into: How the script evolved from idea to screen Finding one’s unique voice as a filmmaker The challenges and rewards of directing a debut feature Mastering the delicate balance of tone and genre The collaboration between editors And so much more! COMPANION is out NOW | TrailerA weekend getaway with friends at a remote cabin turns into chaos after it's revealed that one of the guests is not what they seem.FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference!PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonEdited by @tobiasveesLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode, our primo host Dom Lenoir sits down with the team behind Netflix’s latest hit, Adolescence – a groundbreaking mini-series where every episode is shot in a single take. It’s an incredible achievement from the entire cast and crew, and we couldn’t wait to find out how they pulled it off. Joining us for this fascinating conversation are:Stephen Graham & Erin Doherty (actors)Philip Barantini (Director)Jack Thorne (Writer)Together, they dive into: How Stephen, Jack, and Philip developed the concept The process of writing a one-take script The challenges and techniques behind filming without cuts The current state of drama in film and TV And so much more! We had an amazing time chatting with these incredibly talented creatives – now it’s your turn to sit back, relax, and enjoy.ADOLESCENCE is out on Netflix NOW | TrailerWhen a 13-year-old is accused of the murder of a classmate, his family, therapist and the detective in charge are all left asking what really happened.FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference!PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonEdited by @tobiasveesLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We had the distinct privilege of sitting down with the legendary director Martin Campbell for an exclusive, in-depth conversation about his remarkable career.Martin Campbell's filmography speaks for itself. He's the director who not only breathed new life into the James Bond franchise with the explosive "Golden Eye," but also delivered the critically acclaimed and emotionally resonant "Casino Royale," introducing Daniel Craig as 007. He gave us the thrilling "The Mask of Zorro," the politically charged "Edge of Darkness," the intense "Vertical Limit," and the action-packed "Green Lantern." He's a master of suspense, a visual storyteller of the highest caliber, and a director who consistently delivers compelling cinema.And, of course, we're thrilled to discuss his latest film, the taut thriller "Cleaner," which promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. This film boasts an incredible cast, featuring performances from the likes of…Daisy Ridley, Taz Skylar and Clive Owen.In our interview, we delve into his creative process his experiences working with these talented actors and on some of the biggest franchises in film history and the unique challenges of bringing his latest vision 'Cleaner' to the screen. CLEANER is out NOW | TrailerCriminal activists hijack a gala, taking 300 hostages. One extremist plans mass murder as a message to the world. An Ex-soldier turned window cleaner now works to rescue the hostages.FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film’s important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference!PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written, produced, and edited by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. HarveyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode is a special one! First for all, the brilliant Phil Hawkins takes the reins as our host. And if that wasn’t exciting enough, the one and only Giles Alderson finally joins us to present his brand-new film! Alongside his longtime friend and co-director/-producer/-writer, Dan Richardson, he’s celebrating the release of their powerful and thought-provoking documentary, Food For Thought. What began as a simple idea (years ago) has grown into a phenomenal feature-length film - one that’s sure to inspire and make an impact!Tune in for an episode filled with invaluable filmmaking insights, including: Financing a film through crowdfunding Shooting across the world on a low budget Organising a premiere Why releasing a film for free on YouTube Exclusive behind-the-scenes stories … and so much more!  FOOD FOR THOUGHT is finally out NOW | Watch it HEREA documentary exploring the rapid growth and uptake of the vegan lifestyle around the world. And if you enjoyed the film, please take a moment to share & rate it on your favourite platforms. Every review & every comment helps us share the film's important message with more people. Your support truly makes a difference! PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonEdited by @tobiasveesLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joining is today is acclaimed director Tim Mielants. Tim's career has been a captivating blend of genres and styles, from his work on the visually stunning and mind-bending series "Legion" to his contributions to the historical drama "Peaky Blinders," where he directed Cillian Murphy as the iconic Tommy Shelby. Now, he brings his unique vision to "Small Things Like These," a powerful film exploring themes of faith, family, and community in 1980s Ireland.Tim talks with Dom Lenoir about collaboration, working with and directing Cillian Murphy.immersing historical facts and story.Shooting on location.Creating surreal metaphors within the film.Going from TV to film and back again and making movie and TV magicCillian's captivating performances have made him a household name, from his breakout role in "28 Days Later" to his unforgettable portrayals in "Inception," "Dunkirk," and "Batman Begins." In "Small Things Like These," he delivers a nuanced and deeply moving performance as a coal merchant who uncovers a dark secret in his community.Join us for a fascinating conversation with Tim Mielants as we explore the making of "Small Things Like These," the challenges of bringing a sensitive story to the screen, and the power of film to spark important conversations. Only on The Filmmakers Podcast!Small Things Like These is OUT NOW.WATCH Food for Thought - released on 28th February 2025 here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adue0xef8pYThe Film School Notting hill.https://thefilmschoolofnh.live-website.com/PODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to The Filmmakers Podcast! This week, we're revisiting a beloved character and diving headfirst into the world of Bridget Jones, but with a modern twist! We're joined by the talented director who brought us "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy," Michael Morris!Michael's career has been a fascinating journey through the worlds of film and television. He's directed episodes of critically acclaimed shows like "Better Call Saul," "Bloodline," "Halt and Catch Fire," "13 Reasons Why," and most recently, "For All Mankind" and his feature "To Leslie" His ability to capture nuanced characters and compelling stories across genres is truly impressive. And now, he's taken on the iconic Bridget Jones, bringing her into the 21st century with wit, charm, and a whole lot of heart.Get ready for a delightful conversation with Michael Morris and Dom Lenoir as they discuss his experience directing "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy," the challenges of revisiting a beloved franchise, and the evolution of Bridget Jones in a modern world. Only on The Filmmakers Podcast!Bridget Jones Mad About the Boy IN cinemas NOWPODCAST MERCHGet your very own Tees, Hoodies, onset water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSESWant to learn how to finish your film?Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREONBig thank you to:Serena GardnerMark HammettLee HutchingsMarli JMonroeKarenNewmanWant your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on film-making? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides, and feedback on your film projects! SUPPORT THE PODCASTCheck out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITSThe Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesaldersonLogo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices