IndieWire's Filmmaker Toolkit

On this week’s IndieWire’s Filmmakers Toolkit, Chris O’Falt talks with writer-director Andrew DeYoung about his dark comedy Friendship—now streaming on HBO Max. He reveals how he shaped Tim Robinson’s offbeat energy, uncovered a vulnerable side of Paul Rudd, and crafted a breakup story that’s as funny as it is unsettling—proving comedy hits harder when rooted in truth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mario Van Peebles joins IndieWire’s Jim Hemphill for a live version of Filmmaker Toolkit to talk about his directorial debut, “New Jack City.” In a conversation that followed a 35mm screening of the 1991 gangster classic, Van Peebles discusses casting the film, finding its visual language, and the influence of his father Melvin Van Peebles on his approach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Director Josh Greenbaum, known for his work in comedy and documentaries, shares insights into his Netflix doc 'Will and Harper'. He discusses the unique friendship between comedian Will Ferrell and his collaborator Harper, exploring their emotional road trip and challenges of capturing authentic moments. Greenbaum elaborates on navigating celebrity scrutiny, the significance of deep conversations, and the pivotal self-discovery moments for Harper. The conversation highlights vulnerability, creativity, and the importance of allyship in storytelling.

Emmy-winning director Jon Cassar shares his wealth of knowledge from over 30 years in the industry. He discusses his 31 essential rules for directing, focusing on anticipating problems and effective communication on set. Jon delves into the importance of safety, the unique challenges of water scenes, and the nuance of directing child actors. He emphasizes continuous learning and hands-on involvement in set design to enhance visual storytelling, ensuring productions run smoothly while fostering collaboration among cast and crew.

Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, known for his work on 'Summer of Soul,' and his collaborator Joseph Patel dive into the making of 'Sly Lives!' They discuss the balance between appealing to music fans and new audiences while crafting Sly Stone's powerful narrative. The duo shares insights on their unique creative process, including the spontaneity of Sly's wedding music and the importance of archival footage. They also reflect on the complexities of artistic genius, touching on the vulnerabilities that come with success and the delicate nature of storytelling.

Brennan Lee Mulligan, executive producer and GM of "Dimension 20," offers IndieWire a peak inside the dimensional dome and discusses how cinematic tools, from editing and art design to sound effects and physical props, can help enhance Actual Play storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a real treat for animation fans, a deep dive into the art and process with the beloved creator of Samurai Jack, Dexter's Lab, Primal, and now the new Netflix movie Fixed. Genndy explained why he fought for 2D animation to keep the dogs less gross, walks us through his process with voice actors, and reveals how Fixed was almost the latest Warner Bros. movie shelved for a tax break. PLUS fans of Primal should stick around to the end for an update on Season 3. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary TV creator R. Scott Gemmill joins the Toolkit to breakdown one of this years biggest shows: 'The Pitt.' Gemmill lifts the curtain on the show's medical accuracy, revealing how doctors consulted from script to set to screen. We think you'll enjoy hearing this master of television discussing what it took to launch yet another hit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Rubens, the man who created and became Pee-Wee Herman, has eluded a documentary about his life for a long time. While Matt Wolf was finally able to make a film exploring this complicated artist, it came at a price. Listen to Matt recount his artistic battle with Rubens as they shot the doc, and the shocking personal details he uncovered that bound them together. You have to hear this one to believe it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First time director Michael Shanks joined us on Toolkit for a fascinating discussion about the crazy intimacy of directing a real life couple, his roots as an Aussie kid binging After Effects tutorials, and why his particular brand of body horror needed to be very dry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices