IndieWire's Filmmaker Toolkit

Director Paul Greengrass shares insights on his latest thriller about the 2018 California Wildfires. He dives into his background as a journalist, which shapes his unique filmmaking style. Discover how he recreates realistic crisis scenes, balancing immersive visuals with practical effects. Greengrass explains the importance of character stakes and authenticity, using real people alongside stars like Matthew McConaughey. He also discusses the extensive planning required for capturing tension and the challenges faced in post-production.

Writer-director Shane Black joins IndieWire’s Jim Hemphill to talk about his latest film, the action-comedy “Play Dirty.” They discuss Black’s approach to adapting author Donald Westlake, why he likes to set action movies at Christmas, and how he finds the right balance between violence, humor, and poignancy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Stephanie Jenkins, an archive producer and co-founder of the Archival Producers Alliance, dives into the critical intersection of AI and documentary filmmaking. She highlights the importance of ethical practices and transparency in using generative AI, recounting real-world examples that showcase its potential pitfalls. They discuss the difference between assistive and generative AI, the need for clear labeling, and the evolving guidelines for filmmakers. Additionally, Jenkins stresses the risks of AI replacing archival licensing, emphasizing the balance between creativity and historical accuracy.

Director and co-writer Justin Tipping joins Toolkit to talk with IndieWire’s Jim Hemphill about his surreal new horror film from Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions. Tipping explains how he found his visual language at the intersection between horror and sports, how working with Peele liberated and protected him, and why he cast comic Marlon Wayans in a terrifying role. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rob Reiner returns to Filmmaker Toolkit to talk with IndieWire’s Jim Hemphill about “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.” Reiner discusses returning to the characters who launched his career, working as an actor for Martin Scorsese and Ron Howard, and how digital capture made his job easier than on “This is Spinal Tap” in 1984. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.