Explore every episode of the podcast Kingdom of Dreams Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for Kingdom of Dreams Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
Rows per page:
50
1–50 of 335
Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Ep 335: Editing Whalefall | Oscar Winning Editor Pietro Scalia
How do you edit a movie that takes place inside a whale? Academy Award winning editor Pietro Scalia takes us inside Whalefall, from the squid fight to that final note.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with Academy Award winning film editor Pietro Scalia to talk about his work on Whalefall, the survival thriller directed by Brian Duffield and starring Austin Abrams, Josh Brolin and Elisabeth Shue. Pietro walks us through the transitions that bridge the real and the imagined, why some shots need to simply let the audience breathe, and how he told so much of the story with almost no dialogue. We also get into his own life underwater, what he learned working with Oliver Stone and Ridley Scott, why JFK and Black Hawk Down were the hardest films he has ever cut, and the Black Hawk Down scene Jerry Bruckheimer kept asking him to trim.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • How matching shot angles and breathing sounds bridge the real world and the imagined one • Why the long take after the squid fight lets the audience breathe with the character • Telling a story visually when your lead can barely say a word • What Pietro learned from Oliver Stone, Ridley Scott and the masters around them • Why JFK and Black Hawk Down were his toughest edits, and why he loves holding on a face
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:43 Welcome and Why the Editing Stood Out 4:43 Balancing Survival With Father and Son 8:30 Bridging the Real and the Imagined 15:19 Fathers and Sons 18:19 Isolation in The Martian vs Whalefall 23:56 The Most Emotional Scene to Edit 26:30 Pietro's Life Underwater 31:03 Lessons From Oliver Stone and Ridley Scott 38:43 JFK and Black Hawk Down, the Hardest Films 45:30 The Black Hawk Down Water Scene 49:32 Visual Effects, Music and That Final Note
ABOUT THE GUEST Pietro Scalia is a Sicilian born film editor who has won two Academy Awards for Best Film Editing, for Oliver Stone's JFK and Ridley Scott's Black Hawk Down, with further nominations for Good Will Hunting and Gladiator. After earning his MFA at UCLA, he started out as an assistant editor on Oliver Stone's Wall Street and Talk Radio. His long collaboration with Ridley Scott includes G.I. Jane, Gladiator, Hannibal, American Gangster and The Martian, and his other credits include Stealing Beauty, Little Buddha, Memoirs of a Geisha, Ferrari and The Gray Man. Most recently, he edited Whalefall (2026) for director Brian Duffield.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G69IfZ7oQdU
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 334: Shooting Verity's Extreme Close-Ups | DP Jim Frohna
Extreme close ups, long lenses and old school tungsten light. This is how Verity was shot. Cinematographer Jim Frohna takes us behind the camera on Michael Showalter's psychological thriller.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer Jim Frohna to talk about his work on Verity, the psychological thriller directed by Michael Showalter and starring Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett. Jim walks us through the film's extreme close ups, the split diopter shot, long lenses and winter blue tones, plus the old school tungsten lighting and a house that plays like a character of its own. We also get into how he landed the job, shooting the climax in a single day, and why the script is never really finished.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Why Verity leans on crunchy close ups, and the Hitchcock connection • How long lenses and winter blue tones shape the film's look • The split diopter shot and the choice of old school tungsten lighting • Treating the house as a character in the story • Lessons from shooting the climax in one day, and why the script is never finished
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser: Validation and Family 1:25 Why the Cinematography Stood Out 2:31 Crunchy Close Ups and Hitchcock 4:06 Long Lenses and Winter Blue Tones 4:48 The Split Diopter Shot 9:49 Artists and Validation 16:19 How Jim Got the Verity Job 18:46 Old School Tungsten Lighting 21:25 The House as a Character 24:41 Working With Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett 29:11 Anne Hathaway's Many Versions of Verity 34:38 Lessons Learned Under Pressure 38:09 Shooting the Climax in One Day 40:12 The Script Is Never Finished 41:41 Attitude and Positivity on Set 48:01 Next Up: The Altruists and Serendipity
ABOUT THE GUEST Jim Frohna is an Emmy-nominated American cinematographer and director known for his intimate, naturalistic visual storytelling. His credits include HBO's Big Little Lies, Transparent, Shrinking, The Idea of You, The Chair and I Love Dick. Most recently, he served as Director of Photography on Verity (2026). He has collaborated with directors including Andrea Arnold, Michael Showalter, Jay Duplass and Mike Mills.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G712eA8zjwY Get the Verity novel: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1538780496?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 333: What You Won't Notice in HBO's Youth Costumes | Camille Benda
HBO's Youth costumes. Costume designer Camille Benda on visual language, pilots that get canceled and what you won't notice.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with costume designer Camille Benda to talk about HBO's Youth. Camille shares my reaction to the show, what excited her and what she related to. We also talk about the show's visual language, how often projects get canceled after the pilot, what she learned about herself, her favorite European city, what inspired her to become a costume designer, what the audience won't notice and why costumes matter.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The visual language of Youth • Pilots that get canceled • What audiences won't notice • Why costumes matter
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:14 Reaction to HBO's Youth 3:32 What Excited Camille 5:03 What Was Relatable 7:35 The Show's Visual Language 11:06 How Often Pilots Get Canceled 14:10 What Camille Learned About Herself 18:32 Favorite City in Europe 20:33 Becoming a Costume Designer 24:05 What the Audience Won't Notice 27:12 Why Costumes Matter
ABOUT THE GUEST Camille Benda is a costume designer working in film and television, including HBO's comedy series Youth.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVuBzv7x3lI
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 332: Editing AMC+'s Kill Jackie | Editor Byron Smith
Editing AMC+'s Kill Jackie. Editor Byron Smith on finding tone, the end of episode 2 and de-aging Catherine Zeta-Jones.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down again with editor Byron Smith to talk about AMC+'s Kill Jackie with Catherine Zeta-Jones. Byron shares my reaction to the show, his next show Safe Houses and his first reaction to the footage versus the script. We also talk about finding tone, the end of episode 2, the producers, working around Catherine Zeta-Jones's availability, de-aging her, music and sound, trusting your gut and great shows coming out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Finding the tone • The end of episode 2 • De-aging in the edit • Trusting your gut
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:24 Watching Kill Jackie 2:53 Next Up: Safe Houses 4:12 Footage vs Script 8:35 Finding Tone 14:00 The End of Episode 2 17:10 The Amazing Producers 21:48 When Zeta-Jones Was Not Available 26:33 De-aging Zeta-Jones 29:57 Importance of Music and Sound 36:33 Trusting Your Gut 41:51 Great Shows Coming Out
ABOUT THE GUEST Byron Smith, ACE, is an Emmy and ACE Eddie nominated editor with more than 20 years of experience. His credits include House of Cards, Mindhunter, True Detective, Under the Banner of Heaven, The Mosquito Coast, 1923, Lucky and Kill Jackie. He is a graduate of the American Film Institute.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0QsOwSDl8g
Get Paul Theroux's The Mosquito Coast: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0140060898?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 331: Composer David Robbins on Life, Loss & Gladiator
Composer David Robbins on life, loss and Gladiator. David Robbins on Dead Man Walking, losing Any Given Sunday and Gladiator, and a message to his wife.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down again with composer David Robbins for a personal conversation about life, music and loss. David shares a new award, who he is and Dead Man Walking with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. We also talk about meeting Tim Robbins, being a rebel, success compared to other composers, losing Any Given Sunday and Gladiator, advice to his younger self, what he would tell his parents, taking people for granted, self care and a message to his wife.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Dead Man Walking and Nusrat • Losing Gladiator • Advice to his younger self • Grief and self care
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:31 A New Award 3:20 Who Is David Robbins? 11:49 Dead Man Walking 19:58 Meeting Tim Robbins 24:30 A Rebel and a Mess 29:09 Success Like Other Composers? 36:17 Dead Man Walking 41:14 Losing Any Given Sunday and Gladiator 48:06 Advice to His Younger Self 56:11 TimRobbins.com 58:20 What He Would Tell His Parents 1:01:29 Taking People for Granted 1:04:05 Taking Care of Myself 1:09:07 A Message to His Wife
ABOUT THE GUEST David Robbins is an American composer for film, television and theater. He grew up in New York's Greenwich Village in a musical family. His film credits include Dead Man Walking, Bob Roberts, Cradle Will Rock, King of California and Buck, many for his brother Tim Robbins.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRrx66fbF7o
Get Dead Man Walking on DVD: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00000K0DQ?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 330: The Fine Art of Rocky | Illustrator & Author John Rivoli
The Fine Art of Rocky. Rocky's official artist John Rivoli on the backstory, the shots that could have been and Sylvester Stallone.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with artist John Rivoli to talk about his book The Fine Art of Rocky: An Artistic Tribute from Screen to Canvas. John shares the backstory, the shots that could have been and how his childhood crept into the writing. We also talk about working with Sylvester Stallone, the impact he wants the book to have, the young actor playing Stallone in the new film and his 30th anniversary art.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • How the book came together • Working with Stallone • Rocky's impact on John • The anniversary art
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:05 The Fine Art of Rocky 2:55 The Backstory 9:37 The Shots That Could Have Been 14:03 Childhood in the Writing 19:34 Working with Sylvester Stallone 25:53 The Impact John Wants 29:33 Playing Stallone 36:53 The 30th Anniversary Art
ABOUT THE GUEST John Rivoli is an animator, illustrator and fine artist and the official artist for MGM's Rocky franchise. His book The Fine Art of Rocky has a foreword by Sylvester Stallone.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wndybiowss0
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 329: Editing Heart of the Beast | Editor Dody Dorn
Editing Heart of the Beast. Editor Dody Dorn on the calm of the film, a puppy that showed up and the power of music.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editor Dody Dorn to talk about Heart of the Beast with Brad Pitt. Dody shares my reaction to the film, her editing process and the calm of the film. We also talk about a German Shepherd puppy that showed up at her door, the music, the importance of sound, challenging and fun moments in the edit and the flash forward scene.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The calm of the film • The power of music • The importance of sound • The flash forward
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:28 My Reaction to Heart of the Beast 5:57 Editing Heart of the Beast 9:52 The Calmness of the Film 12:35 A German Shepherd Puppy Showed Up 15:25 The Powerful Music in the Film 20:09 The Importance of Sound 22:02 Challenging and Fun Moments in the Edit 25:46 The Flash Forward Scene
ABOUT THE GUEST Dody Dorn is an American film editor whose credits include Memento, for which she earned an Academy Award nomination, Insomnia, Kingdom of Heaven, Fury, Zack Snyder's Justice League and Rebel Moon.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLsgKbkloaw
Get Memento on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FHCH96?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 328: Back to the Future Trilogy | Writer & Producer Bob Gale
Back to the Future trilogy. Bob Gale on the complete screenplay, early failures and magical moments.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with Bob Gale, co-writer and producer of the Back to the Future trilogy. Bob shares Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay, my watching Part III first and what makes the book great. We also talk about what still surprises him, the films before Back to the Future, the failures of early films, magical moments, listening to movie scores and Robert Zemeckis's Here.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The complete screenplay • Early failures • Magical moments • Working with Robert Zemeckis
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 2:40 The Complete Screenplay 5:41 Watching Part III First 11:49 What's Great About the Book 15:12 What Still Surprises Bob 21:27 Films Before Back to the Future 25:59 Failures of Early Films 30:35 Magical Moments 36:45 Listening to Movie Scores 41:51 Robert Zemeckis's Here
ABOUT THE GUEST Bob Gale is an Oscar nominated screenwriter and producer, co-creator, co-writer and co-producer of the Back to the Future trilogy with Robert Zemeckis. His credits include 1941, I Wanna Hold Your Hand, Used Cars, Trespass and Interstate 60, which he wrote and directed.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2ivyoATizo
Get the Back to the Future Trilogy on 4K: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FMJ3T38R?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 327: Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay | Book Review
Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay. My review of the new book with the full screenplay and never before seen images.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I review Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay, a new book with the full screenplay, never before seen images and behind the scenes material. I go through the beginning of the screenplay, what lies between the pages and the ending.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The full screenplay • Never before seen images • Behind the scenes material • How the ending reads
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 0:39 The Beginning of the Screenplay 3:51 Between the Pages 5:59 The Ending
ABOUT THE BOOK Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay collects the screenplay of Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale's film with images and material from its making.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K48ErCZTLik
Get Back to the Future: The Complete Screenplay: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DY6DZSHQ?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 326: Africa: Earth's Wild Home | Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
Africa: Earth's Wild Home. National Geographic Explorer Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka on gorillas and convincing her family.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with National Geographic Explorer Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka to talk about the series Africa: Earth's Wild Home. Dr. Gladys shares what audiences can take away, convincing her family to accept her career and the connection between humans and wildlife. We also talk about what decades with mountain gorillas have taught her.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Becoming a wildlife vet • Mountain gorillas • People and wildlife • What the series shows
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:28 What Audiences Take Away 4:22 Convincing Her Family 8:17 Humans and Wildlife 11:54 What Dr. Gladys Learned
ABOUT THE GUEST Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka is a Ugandan wildlife veterinarian, conservationist and National Geographic Explorer. She founded and leads Conservation Through Public Health, linking wildlife conservation with community health.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW_WAAi8Z2g
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 325: Storyboarding DreamWorks' The Forgotten Island | Simon Wells
Storyboarding DreamWorks' The Forgotten Island. Simon Wells on building an original world, mixing 2D and 3D and AI.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down again with director and storyboard artist Simon Wells to talk about DreamWorks' The Forgotten Island. Simon shares my reaction to the film, creating an original world and the scenes he worked on. We also talk about the memories that shaped the film, combining 2D and 3D, shooting wide angles, Wildwood and Your Mother at TIFF, AI and filmmaking and his future projects.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Building an original world • Storyboarding the climax • Mixing 2D and 3D • AI and filmmaking
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:07 Reaction to The Forgotten Island 8:16 Creating an Original World 14:26 The Scenes Simon Worked On 25:53 Memories That Shaped the Film 35:00 Combining 2D and 3D 39:29 Shooting Wide Angles 49:45 Wildwood and Your Mother at TIFF 55:30 AI and Filmmaking 1:09:37 Future Projects
ABOUT THE GUEST Simon Wells is a British director, animator and storyboard artist who directed The Time Machine, Balto, An American Tail: Fievel Goes West and We're Back! A Dinosaur's Story. The great grandson of H. G. Wells, he has worked on The Prince of Egypt, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIxH2PFKaAM
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 324: Shooting Fall 2: Deadpoint | DP Andrew Strahorn
Shooting Fall 2: Deadpoint. DP Andrew Strahorn on character arcs through the camera and the lead into part 3.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer Andrew Strahorn to talk about Fall 2: Deadpoint. Andrew shares the process of shooting Fall and Australian cinematographers. We also talk about the arc of the characters, showing that arc with the camera, keeping a scene interesting, the lead into part 3 and his path in the film industry.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Shooting at height • Character arc through camera • Keeping a scene interesting • Setting up part 3
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:07 Watching Fall and Fall 2 Back to Back 5:38 Process of Working on Fall 11:37 Australian Cinematographers 19:48 The Arc of Characters 25:05 Showing the Arc with the Camera 31:32 Keeping a Scene Interesting 37:26 The Lead into Part 3 45:07 The Path in Film Industry
ABOUT THE GUEST Andrew Strahorn is an Australian cinematographer working in features, television, commercials and music videos. He shot the survival thriller Fall and Fall 2: Deadpoint.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7UoGAegAvI
Get Fall (2022) on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B75NVS1R?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 323: The Cycle of Love | Orlando von Einsiedel, P.K. & Lotta
The Cycle of Love. Director Orlando von Einsiedel with P.K. and Lotta on being on camera, film versus digital and the message of love.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with director Orlando von Einsiedel and the film's subjects, P.K. and Lotta, to talk about The Cycle of Love. They share what they learned, real people on film and marriage. We also talk about the hardest part, how hard it was to be on camera, emotional moments in production, film versus digital, whether it could become a narrative film and the message of love.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Real people on film • Being on camera • Film versus digital • The message of love
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:17 What They Learned 4:03 Real People in the Film 9:41 Marriage 11:32 The Hardest Part 13:38 Was Being on Camera Hard? 16:18 Emotional Moments During Production 18:36 Film vs Digital 20:58 Could It Be a Narrative Film? 24:20 The Message of Love
ABOUT THE GUEST Orlando von Einsiedel is an Academy Award winning British documentary filmmaker and founder of Grain Media. He directed The White Helmets, which won the Oscar for Documentary Short, and the Oscar nominated Virunga.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWXR9bc20qk
Get Per J. Andersson's The Amazing Story of the Man Who Cycled from India to Europe for Love: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1786070332?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 322: Shooting Hanging by the Wire | DP Brendan McGinty
Shooting Hanging by a Wire. DP Brendan McGinty on the rescue sequence, a three camera setup and filming in homes.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer Brendan McGinty to talk about the documentary Hanging by a Wire. Brendan shares how he got involved, cinema in Pakistan and shooting in a studio. We also talk about the rescue sequence, why it is not a political film, the women in the film, a father's acceptance, interview setups, the three camera setup, filming in homes and the UK release.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The rescue sequence • A film about people, not politics • Interview setups • Filming in homes
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:06 How Brendan Got Involved 4:00 Cinema in Pakistan 8:28 Shooting in a Studio 13:09 The Rescue Sequence 17:46 Not a Political Film 20:21 The Women in the Film 23:17 A Father's Acceptance 28:50 Interview Setups 31:48 The Three Camera Setup 34:06 Filming in Homes 35:54 This Film is Special 38:26 UK Release
ABOUT THE GUEST Brendan McGinty is a cinematographer working across film, television, commercials and documentary.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bt9IBqoBEM
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 321: The Last Breath First | Author Nasreen Variyawa
The Last Breath First. Author Nasreen Variyawa on writing through grief, regrets and growing up in apartheid South Africa.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with author Nasreen Variyawa to talk about her novel The Last Breath First. Nasreen shares the book, people who objected to her writing and how stories help others. We also talk about her writing process, memories of her late husband, regrets, how her career started, living in apartheid South Africa and whether the book could become a film.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Turning grief into story • How stories help others • Her writing process • Apartheid South Africa
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:08 The Last Breath First 6:02 People Who Objected 8:50 How Stories Help Other People 11:21 Nasreen's Writing Process 17:32 Memories of Her Late Husband 20:32 Any Regrets? 25:38 How Her Career Started 30:47 Living in Apartheid South Africa 38:27 From Book to Film?
ABOUT THE GUEST Nasreen Variyawa is a South African author, editor, educator and author coach. After more than a decade teaching in Turkiye, she returned to South Africa. Her books include Exceptional Authors Are Authentic, Tuqburni: Bury Me Softly and The Last Breath First.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdRplSRAR3Y
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 320: Hanging by the Wire | Director Mohammed Ali Naqvi
Hanging by a Wire. Director Mohammed Ali Naqvi on real footage, archival material and Universal Pictures.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with filmmaker Mohammed Ali Naqvi to talk about his documentary Hanging by a Wire, about a real rescue in Pakistan. Mohammed shares the genesis of the film, real versus recreated footage and what he learned. We also talk about the archival footage, how Universal Pictures got involved and screening the film for the community.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • How the film began • Real footage or not • Universal Pictures joining • Screening for the community
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 2:18 The Genesis of Hanging by a Wire 7:48 Real Footage or Not? 10:57 What Mohammed Learned 14:44 Archival Footage in the Film 17:01 How Universal Pictures Got Involved 22:22 Screening for the Community
ABOUT THE GUEST Mohammed Ali Naqvi is a Pakistani American documentary filmmaker whose work explores politics, identity, religion and social justice in Pakistan and South Asia.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6L7XbtiaMY
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 319: Editing The End of Oak Street | Editor John Axelrad
Editing The End of Oak Street. Editor John Axelrad on the blocking, coverage and tax incentives.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editor John Axelrad to talk about The End of Oak Street. John shares the setup of the film, its blocking and whether an editor should be on set. We also talk about working under pressure, the performances, the finale, coverage versus no coverage and how tax incentives shape who gets hired.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Building tension and pacing • Editor on set or not • The finale • Tax incentives
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:55 The Setup of The End of Oak Street 8:26 The Blocking 11:36 Editor on Set or Not 15:39 Working Under Pressure 18:52 The Performances 22:31 The Finale 29:07 Coverage or No Coverage 37:17 Tax Incentives
ABOUT THE GUEST John Axelrad, ACE, is an American film editor whose credits include We Own the Night, The Immigrant, The Lost City of Z, Ad Astra, The Green Knight, The Old Man and the Gun, Krampus and Crazy Heart.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Rjm-c5hccI
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 318: Filming The Odyssey: Nolan's Epic | Author James Mottram
Filming The Odyssey. Author James Mottram on talking to Christopher Nolan, the Cyclops and the witch sequence.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down again with author James Mottram to talk about his book on Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey. James shares who he had access to, speaking with Christopher Nolan and a surprising story. We also talk about the Cyclops, the monster in the rock, in focus shots on the ship, the witch sequence and Anne Hathaway's performance.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Access to Nolan's set • The Cyclops • Shooting on the ship • The witch sequence
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 3:04 My Thoughts on The Odyssey 6:48 Who James Had Access To 12:33 Speaking to Christopher Nolan 15:13 A Surprising Story 19:35 A Favorite Story 23:45 The Cyclops 26:05 The Monster in the Rock 30:15 In Focus Shots on the Ship 34:25 The Witch Sequence 38:25 Anne Hathaway's Performance
ABOUT THE GUEST James Mottram is a British film journalist and author whose work has appeared in Total Film, The Independent, The Times and Sight and Sound. His books include The Secrets of Tenet and Jurassic Park: The Ultimate Visual History.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMg2rbB7b0U
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 317: Pan's Labyrinth, Predator & More | Illustrator William Stout
Pan's Labyrinth, Predator and more. Illustrator William Stout on Guillermo del Toro, an unmade Godzilla and sharing an office with Spielberg.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with illustrator and concept artist William Stout. William shares working on The Mist and Predator, Guillermo del Toro saying no to Harry Potter and working on Pan's Labyrinth. We also talk about his first production design job on an unmade Godzilla, the Predator franchise, his beginnings, sharing an office with Steven Spielberg and The Return of the Living Dead.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Designing Pan's Labyrinth • The unmade Godzilla • Sharing an office with Spielberg • The Return of the Living Dead
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:19 Working on The Mist and Predator 9:42 Guillermo Del Toro Said No to Harry Potter 14:29 Working on Pan's Labyrinth 19:46 An Unmade Godzilla 24:31 Predator Franchise 27:20 William's Beginnings 31:24 The LA Convention Center 34:05 Sharing Office with Steven Spielberg 38:17 Return of the Living Dead 41:21 Open to New Projects?
ABOUT THE GUEST William Stout is an American illustrator, concept artist and production designer with more than five decades of work. His film credits include Conan the Barbarian, The Return of the Living Dead, Masters of the Universe, Predator, The Mist and Pan's Labyrinth.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eFHuJ6Vh7E
Get Pan's Labyrinth on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IPDO27A?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 316: Planet Junk and World-Building | Alex McDowell
Project Junk and world building. Production designer Alex McDowell on films that shaped Project Junk, AI environments and AI fatigue.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with production designer Alex McDowell to talk about world building and his new venture, Project Junk. Alex shares what Project Junk is and how films influenced it. We also talk about using AI to create environments, AI fatigue, physical space, working on films versus now and the future of Planet Junk.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • What Project Junk is • World building beyond film • AI and environments • Physical space
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:14 What Is Project Junk? 10:23 How Films Shaped the Project 18:57 Using AI to Create Environments 27:21 AI Fatigue 30:36 Physical Space 41:36 Working on Films vs Now 45:31 The Future of Planet Junk
ABOUT THE GUEST Alex McDowell is a production designer whose credits include Minority Report, Fight Club, Watchmen, Man of Steel, The Terminal and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He founded the World Building Institute and has taught at the USC School of Cinematic Arts.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtI6AVWqLPI
Get Minority Report on 4K: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FQQY9NB2?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 315: Prime Video's Sterling Point Costumes | Marissa Schwartz
Prime Video's Sterling Point costumes. Costume designer Marissa Schwartz on Americans versus Canadians, actors' own clothes and a three way marriage.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with costume designer Marissa Schwartz to talk about Prime Video's Sterling Point. Marissa shares the looks she had in mind, dressing Americans versus Canadians and how she became a costume designer. We also talk about when the chips were down, actors' own wardrobe, working with actors, the three way marriage of costume, design and camera, what she learned and confidence.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Designing the Sterling Point looks • Americans versus Canadians • The three way marriage • Living truly
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:10 The Costumes in Mind 7:14 Americans vs Canadians 12:57 Becoming a Costume Designer 15:46 When the Chips Were Down 21:13 Actors' Own Wardrobe as Costumes? 25:45 Working with Actors 29:09 Three Way Marriage 32:11 What Marissa Learned 35:03 Living Truly 40:28 Confidence
ABOUT THE GUEST Marissa Schwartz is a Canadian costume designer and two time Canadian Screen Award nominee. Her credits include Mean Dreams, Giant Little Ones, American Woman, Mouthpiece, The Parting Glass, Sort Of and Sterling Point.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKtJYD8gKBY
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 314: Directing Mustache | Writer-Director Imran J. Khan
Directing Mustache. Writer and director Imran J. Khan on how much of Ilyas is him, his father and filming in Toronto.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with writer and director Imran J. Khan to talk about his film Mustache. Imran shares how much of Ilyas is him, the memories it triggered and why vulnerability matters. We also talk about the pressure of a father, Ilyas's introduction, why they filmed in Toronto, going from editor to director, The End of Oak Street, my favorite scene, the most challenging scene and his next projects.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • How personal Mustache is • The pressure of a father • Why shoot in Toronto • From editor to director
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:09 How Much of Ilyas Is Imran? 6:17 Memories Triggered 10:07 Why Vulnerability Matters 22:42 The Pressure of a Father 24:57 Introducing Ilyas 28:04 Why Film in Toronto? 37:29 From Editor to Director 40:38 Watching The End of Oak Street 44:30 My Favorite Scene in Mustache 48:07 Most Challenging Scene 54:16 Next Projects
ABOUT THE GUEST Imran J. Khan is a Pakistani American writer, director and editor. He wrote and directed Mustache, with Atharva Verma, Rizwan Manji, Meesha Shafi, Alicia Silverstone and Hasan Minhaj, which premiered at SXSW.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxr1cxOEFCo
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 313: Directing The Sopranos and Alias | Dan Attias
Directing The Sopranos and Alias. Director Dan Attias on E.T., silence and working with Taylor Sheridan.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with director Dan Attias to talk about The Sopranos, Alias and more. Dan shares his time as second AD on E.T., the importance of silence and the balance of family and violence. We also talk about mergers and acquisitions, how disasters lead to the best results, handling emotions, working with actors, who directors vent to, Stephen King's Silver Bullet and working with Taylor Sheridan.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Second AD on E.T. • The power of silence • Working with actors • When disaster helps
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:03 E.T. and Second AD 8:17 Importance of Silence 10:37 Family and Violence 22:52 Mergers and Acquisitions 29:46 Disaster Leads to Best Results 34:30 Handling Emotions 39:34 Working with Actors 45:39 The Director Who Didn't Know Anything 50:21 Who Directors Vent To 55:58 Stephen King's Silver Bullet 1:01:51 Working with Taylor Sheridan
ABOUT THE GUEST Dan Attias is an American television director with more than four decades of credits including The Sopranos, The Wire, The Americans, Homeland, Alias, Six Feet Under, Deadwood, Lost and Entourage. He won a DGA Award for The Wire and directed Stephen King's Silver Bullet.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxqYRVKFlBk
Get The Sopranos: The Complete Series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087SFKYZH?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 312: Shooting Little House on the Prairie | DP C. Kim Miles
Shooting Little House on the Prairie. DP Kim Miles on landscape as beautiful and frightening, the wide frame and ego.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer C. Kim Miles to talk about the new Little House on the Prairie. Kim shares why make another version, landscape as both beautiful and frightening and watching the original. We also talk about the wide frame, the post office scene, the most challenging scene, what he learned, ego and the scenes that stand out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Landscape as a character • The wide frame • The post office scene • Ego and the story
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:05 Another Little House on the Prairie? 7:34 Landscape, Beautiful and Frightening 11:56 Watching the Original 16:14 The Wide Frame in This Series 19:53 Post Office Scene 23:59 Most Challenging Scene 27:31 What Kim Learned 31:09 Ego and My Story 36:14 Standout Scenes
ABOUT THE GUEST C. Kim Miles is a cinematographer whose credits include Welcome to Marwen, The Brothers Sun, Yellowjackets, Lost in Space, Arrow and Little House on the Prairie.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wC-9yZanQo
Get Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OOK1K6?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 311: Editing Apple TV+'s Lucky | Editor Byron Smith
Editing Apple TV+'s Lucky. Editor Byron Smith on family dynamics, the climax and costume and props.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editor Byron Smith to talk about Apple TV+'s crime drama Lucky with Anya Taylor-Joy. Byron shares how the edit changes perspective, the family dynamics and editing the climax. We also talk about the thought behind costume and props, his process on Lucky and his future work.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Changing perspective in the edit • Family at the heart of a crime story • Editing the climax • Costume and props
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 0:58 What a Show 5:36 Editing Changes Perspective 12:58 The Family Dynamics 20:33 Editing the Climax of Lucky 27:53 Costume and Props 34:35 The Process of Editing Lucky 39:40 Future Work
ABOUT THE GUEST Byron Smith, ACE, is an Emmy and ACE Eddie nominated editor whose credits include House of Cards, Mindhunter, True Detective, Under the Banner of Heaven, The Mosquito Coast, 1923, Lucky and Kill Jackie.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCLB--CTP5c
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 310: Editing Spider-Man: Brand New Day | Editor Harry Yoon
Editing Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Editor Harry Yoon on the audience reaction, the power of silence and Zendaya.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editor Harry Yoon to talk about Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Harry shares the audience reaction, his love of superhero films and his favorite part of the film. We also talk about the sound design, the most challenging scene, contrast, the power of silence and the cast, Zendaya's performance in Euphoria, what made him better and a story from growing up.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Spider-Man taking MJ home • The Hand ninja fight • The power of silence • Contrast is everything
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:07 The Audience Reaction 8:47 A Love of Superhero Films 13:19 Favorite Part of Brand New Day 19:16 The Sound Design 24:59 Most Challenging Scene 29:47 The Contrast in Spider-Man 34:14 Contrast is Everything 40:10 The Power of Silence and the Cast 43:59 Zendaya in Euphoria 46:01 What Made Harry Better 54:18 A Story from Growing Up
ABOUT THE GUEST Harry Yoon is an American film editor whose credits include Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Minari, Detroit and Euphoria.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_7878gZNTY
Get Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09L3KDP4Q?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 309: The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11 | Director Michael Gier
The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11. Director Michael Gier on Wall Street and the homeless, a Muslim doctor's story and Gary Sinise.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with filmmaker Michael Gier to talk about his documentary The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11: From Tragedy to Triumph. Michael shares the heroes of 9/11, where he was that day and the contrast between Wall Street and the homeless. We also talk about the value of money, stories of transformation and purpose, America after 9/11, the story of a Muslim doctor and Gary Sinise narrating the film.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Heroes of 9/11 • Wall Street and the homeless • A Muslim doctor's story • America after 9/11
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:07 Heroes of 9/11 5:21 Where Were You on 9/11? 8:29 The Homeless vs Wall Street 12:29 The Value of Money 14:30 Story of Transformation 19:14 How Michael's Life Changed 24:59 Story of Purpose 30:52 America After 9/11 35:30 A Muslim Doctor's Story 42:26 Gary Sinise as Narrator
ABOUT THE GUEST Michael Gier is an American filmmaker, director and producer of documentaries about resilience, faith and history. He directed and produced The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11: From Tragedy to Triumph.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTnNofHjD84
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 308: Producing Aronofsky's The Fountain | Eric Watson
Producing Aronofsky's The Fountain. Producer Eric Watson on 20 years of The Fountain, Brad Pitt and the loneliness of producing.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down again with producer Eric Watson to talk about Darren Aronofsky's The Fountain, 20 years on. Eric shares why they made it, Brad Pitt's early involvement and the challenges in post production. We also talk about the director seeing edits, vulnerability as a producer, high versus low budget films and AI.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The Brad Pitt version • Rebuilding on a smaller budget • Vulnerability as a producer • High versus low budget
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:36 20 Years of The Fountain 3:03 Why Make The Fountain? 13:07 Brad Pitt and the Lead Role 22:15 Challenges in Post Production 29:37 The Director Seeing Edits 34:48 Vulnerability as a Producer 39:27 High vs Low Budget Films 43:37 The Evolution of AI
ABOUT THE GUEST Eric Watson is an American film producer and screenwriter known for his partnership with Darren Aronofsky. An AFI graduate, he produced Pi, Requiem for a Dream and The Fountain.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rYCIeqCUmY
Get The Fountain on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000O7667K?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 307: Shooting The Devil's Mouth Underwater | James Kniest
Shooting The Devil's Mouth underwater. DP James Kniest on the underwater stage in Thailand, a cave monster and mobile filmmaking.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer James Kniest to talk about Jeff Wadlow's underwater thriller The Devil's Mouth. James shares shooting on location in Thailand, building the underwater stage and lighting a naturalistic cave monster. We also talk about snakes, squalls and safety, cinematic claustrophobia, the psychology of fear, tidal limits, genre audiences, IMAX, behind the scenes education and filmmaking on phones.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Building an underwater stage • Lighting a cave monster • Creating claustrophobia • Shooting around the tides
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:03 The Thrill of Problem-Solving 1:58 Shooting on Location in Thailand 5:05 Engineering the Underwater Stage 6:44 Lighting a Naturalistic Cave Monster 11:04 Snakes, Squalls and Safety 13:02 Real People in Unreal Pressures 14:58 Creating Cinematic Claustrophobia 17:18 The Psychology of Fear 18:39 Navigating Tidal Constraints 21:46 A Collaborative Team Sport 23:50 The Evolution of Genre Audiences 27:13 The Return of Collective Theater 28:59 IMAX and Modern Film Literacy 31:26 Behind the Scenes Education 36:22 The Power of Mobile Filmmaking 40:13 Future Projects and Emerging Tech
ABOUT THE GUEST James Kniest is an American cinematographer known for horror and thriller films. He studied cinematography and underwater photography at the Brooks Institute of Photography and worked as a gaffer and operator before becoming a director of photography.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmBI2MjWQn4
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 306: Night Nurse | Georgia Bernstein, Mimi Rogers & Cemre Paksoy
Night Nurse. Director Georgia Bernstein and actresses Mimi Rogers and Cemre Paksoy on tone, improv and the opening.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with director Georgia Bernstein and actresses Mimi Rogers and Cemre Paksoy to talk about Night Nurse. They share the film's influences and Canadian flair, setting the tone and location and a lifelong connection. We also talk about merging self with character, improv and logistics, the mechanical magic of the opening, stubbornness on set and a timeless look.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Cronenberg and Egoyan influences • Merging self with character • The opening sequence • A timeless look
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 2:22 Establishing Tone and Location 5:10 A Lifetime Connection 7:34 Merging Self with Character 9:03 Memories of Improv and Logistics 12:52 The Mechanical Magic of the Opening 15:29 Stubbornness on Set 17:27 Creating a Timeless Aesthetic 18:56 Phone Cords and Chicken
ABOUT THE GUESTS Georgia Bernstein is an American writer and director of character driven independent films. Mimi Rogers is an American actress whose credits include Someone to Watch Over Me, Austin Powers and The X-Files. Cemre Paksoy is an actress who stars in Night Nurse.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1EJNH8VYGY
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 305: Shooting I Love Boosters | DP Natasha Braier
Shooting I Love Boosters. DP Natasha Braier on the slanted office, memory over moodboards and Deep Light.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer Natasha Braier to talk about I Love Boosters. Natasha shares her move to Morongo Valley, a desert UFO sighting and how cult classics are made. We also talk about independent cinema, grounding a bold look in character psychology, finding the camera through subtext, building the slanted office, working from memory instead of moodboards, anamorphic wide frames, her influences and Deep Light, her community for cinematographers.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Building the slanted office • Memory over moodboards • Anamorphic and wide frames • Deep Light for DPs
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:04 Trading the City for Morongo Valley 4:04 The Desert UFO Story 6:35 Building a Cult Classic 9:18 The Philosophy of Independent Cinema 20:45 Grounding the Look in Character 25:23 Finding the Camera Through Subtext 30:01 Engineering the Slanted Office 35:59 The Hustle of Indie Production 38:27 Memory Over Moodboards 48:32 Cinema Is More Than Still Images 55:46 Anamorphic and Wide Frames 1:02:19 Formative Influences 1:05:37 Deep Light, a Community for DPs 1:12:06 The Art of Unfiltered Conversation
ABOUT THE GUEST Natasha Braier, ASC, ADF, is a cinematographer whose credits include The Neon Demon, Honey Boy, Gloria Bell and I Love Boosters.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sCSSVQgAe0
Get The Neon Demon on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HMCXJPQ?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 304: Napoleon & Gladiator II Sets | Set Decorator Elli Griff
Napoleon and Gladiator II sets. Set decorator Elli Griff on building character from the pockets up, the white doves and AI.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with set decorator Elli Griff to talk about Ridley Scott's Napoleon and Gladiator II. Elli shares the myth of the gray stage, building character from the pockets up and the future of IMAX and real spaces. We also talk about returning to the arena for Gladiator II, historical authenticity, lessons from Ridley Scott, the white doves found on location, magic realism in India, women in the industry, collaborative dining and AI in recruiting.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Building character from the pockets up • Working inside Ridley Scott's machine • The white doves • Women in a male dominated craft
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:05 Navigating a Creative Free Fall 3:15 Executive Risk and Streaming Content 4:22 The Myth of the Gray Stage 7:20 Building Character from the Pockets Up 9:10 The Future of IMAX and Real Spaces 10:37 Attention Spans and Fragmented Focus 11:54 The Vanishing Scale of Grand Cinema 14:23 Reinvesting in the Human Experience 16:14 The Survival of Live Events 18:03 The Alchemy of Light and Teamwork 21:37 Returning to the Arena for Gladiator II 23:07 The Speed of Professional Trust 26:06 Troubleshooting Historical Authenticity 30:10 The Machine of Ridley's Team 32:38 Lessons from Ridley Scott 35:37 Set Decoration as a Heavy Discipline 37:30 Survival Themes in Historical Design 41:08 The Method Decorator 43:48 The White Doves 47:44 Cultural Diversity and Global Travel 49:42 Magic Realism in India 52:46 The Underground Sisterhood 56:13 Women in the Industry 58:56 Self-Belief and the Old Sages 1:00:52 Middle Management in Creative Arts 1:03:39 The Importance of Collaborative Dining 1:05:42 Versatility 1:09:33 Empathy and Automation 1:13:33 Testing AI Recruitment 1:18:57 Adapting to the Fast-Moving Pulse 1:21:15 Final Thoughts and Reading Books
ABOUT THE GUEST Elli Griff is an Academy Award nominated British set decorator whose credits include Gladiator, A.I. Artificial Intelligence, Edge of Tomorrow, Glass Onion, Napoleon and Gladiator II.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG_V8mLinko
Watch Napoleon on Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP2QQZQ4?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 303: Shooting Apple TV+'s Cape Fear | DP Celiana Cárdenas
Shooting Apple TV+'s Cape Fear. DP Celiana Cárdenas on the jail reflection shot, the anamorphic zoom and working with Amy Adams.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer Celiana Cárdenas to talk about Apple TV+'s Cape Fear. Celiana shares the road to Cape Fear, working with Nick Antosca and modern thrills and AI in storytelling. We also talk about her journey from ballerina to cinematographer, her career in Mexico, the jail reflection, paranoia and the anamorphic zoom, the mirror choreography, the color teal, working with five directors, her Toronto ties, episode 6 and Amy Adams.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The jail reflection shot • Paranoia and the anamorphic zoom • The visual language of teal • From ballerina to cinematographer
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 0:58 The Road to Cape Fear 1:37 Collaborating with Nick Antosca 4:45 Modern Thrills and AI in Storytelling 7:57 From Ballerina to Cinematographer 12:27 A Career in Mexico 14:23 Visual Identity and Mainstream Hollywood 16:18 Finding Uniqueness in Darkness and Color 20:12 The Jail Reflection 24:28 Paranoia and the Anamorphic Zoom 27:57 The Mirror Choreography 32:02 The Visual Language of Teal 33:42 Working with Five Different Directors 36:10 Career Future and Toronto Ties 37:40 Episode 6 46:27 The Professionalism of A-List Stars 48:44 Amy Adams and the Depth of Performance
ABOUT THE GUEST Celiana Cárdenas is a Mexican Canadian cinematographer based in Toronto whose work spans feature films, television and documentaries, including Apple TV+'s Cape Fear.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-3T46W9l_Q
Get Cape Fear (1991) on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005CA4SL0?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 302: The West Wing, Lost & Six Feet Under | Christopher Nelson
Editing The West Wing, Lost and Six Feet Under. Editor Christopher Nelson on the Martin Sheen effect, the micro cut and the final cut of Lost.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editor Christopher Nelson to talk about The West Wing, Lost and Six Feet Under. Chris shares the Aaron Sorkin and Thomas Schlamme partnership, the job offer that changed his path and the rhythm of political drama. We also talk about score and atmosphere, the Martin Sheen effect, advice for new editors, the micro cut, longevity and burning bridges, the Universal film factory, exposition in Lost and its final cut.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Cutting the rhythm of The West Wing • Advice for new editors • The art of the micro cut • Ending Lost
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:04 The Sorkin and Schlamme Partnership 2:33 A Job Offer That Changed Everything 4:32 Rhythms of Political Drama 9:10 Score and Atmosphere 11:13 The Martin Sheen Effect 21:00 Advice for Aspiring Editors 24:58 The Art of the Micro-Cut 33:22 Longevity and Burning Bridges 39:04 The Universal Film Factory 45:05 Organizing the Chaos 49:02 Lost and the Art of Exposition 58:40 The Final Cut of Lost
ABOUT THE GUEST Christopher Nelson is an American television editor who started in the mailroom at Universal and worked his way up to editor. He has cut more than 50 pilots, TV movies and series, including The West Wing, Lost and Six Feet Under.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Wa2DEl9PCo
Get The West Wing: The Complete Series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091GK6CVX?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 301: Designing E.T., The Rocketeer & Jumanji | James D. Bissell
Designing E.T., The Rocketeer and Jumanji. Production designer Jim Bissell on E.T.'s horror origins, the rocket pack and practical water effects.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with production designer James D. Bissell to talk about E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, The Rocketeer, 300 and Jumanji. Jim shares E.T.'s horror origins, landing the job with Steven Spielberg and finding the perfect suburbia. We also talk about the hyper deco world and rocket pack of The Rocketeer, turning a graphic novel into 300, Good Night, and Good Luck, his Oscar nomination, building a house for chaos in Jumanji, practical water effects and Joe Johnston's quiet genius.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • E.T.'s horror origins • Designing The Rocketeer's rocket pack • Translating 300 to screen • Practical water effects in Jumanji
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:11 The Horror Origins of E.T. 3:40 Landing the Gig with Spielberg 5:21 Capturing the Emotional Heart of the Script 8:19 Finding the Perfect Suburbia 11:12 Designing Magical Thinking 15:21 The Invisible Logic of Production Design 20:27 The Rocketeer and a Love of Flight 23:31 Crafting a Hyper-Deco World 25:22 The Iconic Rocket Pack 28:12 Fantasy Architecture and Neville Sinclair's Lair 30:29 300 and Translating a Graphic Novel 37:30 'The Crush' and Modular Set Design 39:35 Why Limitations Dictate Style 41:25 The Human Element in the Age of AI 46:09 Good Night, and Good Luck and Seeing in Values 49:33 The Meaning of an Oscar Nomination 54:25 Jumanji 56:39 Building a House for Chaos 59:06 The Brutal Reality of Practical Water Effects 1:03:33 A Tribute to Joe Johnston's Quiet Genius 1:04:26 Climbing Mountains with Master Directors
ABOUT THE GUEST James D. Bissell is an American production designer whose credits include E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, The Rocketeer, Jumanji, 300 and Good Night, and Good Luck, for which he earned an Academy Award nomination. He studied theater at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C4VYm_Ojdw
Get E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial: The Ultimate Visual History: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1683834275?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 300: Writing The Rocketeer | Screenwriter Danny Bilson
Writing The Rocketeer. Screenwriter Danny Bilson on finding the comic, Disney notes and John Milius.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with screenwriter Danny Bilson to talk about The Rocketeer. Danny shares finding the comic book, developing the film and the journey of the script. We also talk about Joe Johnston's work, the dialogue style, the effects, the love of aviation, Disney notes, a sequel, his move into video games, teaching writing, John Milius and how The Rocketeer has stood the test of time.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • From comic to screen • Dealing with Disney notes • Moving into games • Lessons from John Milius
CHAPTERS 0:00 Introduction 2:21 Finding the Comic and Developing The Rocketeer 10:09 The Journey of the Script 13:43 The Impact of The Rocketeer 15:31 Reflecting on the Rocketeer and Joe Johnston's Work 16:28 The Unique Dialogue Style 19:58 The Visual Effects 22:25 The Emotional Core 23:41 Dealing with Frustrations and Disney Notes 25:28 The Joy of Working on Beloved Projects 27:48 The Desire for a Rocketeer Sequel 29:12 Transition to the Gaming Industry 33:15 Reflection on Writing Process 35:23 Teaching Writing and Film 37:15 Writing as a Visual Medium 41:06 Influence of John Milius 48:07 The Joy and Disappointment of The Rocketeer 50:59 Experience in Vancouver and Calgary
ABOUT THE GUEST Danny Bilson is an American screenwriter, producer and director. He co-wrote The Rocketeer and The Flash TV series and has worked in comics and video games.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMU_TNyy-lg
Get The Rocketeer on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005JZBP4Q?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 299: Ridley Scott's Body of Lies | Set Decorator Sonja Klaus
Ridley Scott's Body of Lies. Set decorator Sonja Klaus on Morocco, a rubbish mountain and building the American embassy.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down again with set decorator Sonja Klaus to talk about Ridley Scott's Body of Lies with Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe. Sonja shares location scouting, the journey to Morocco and the torture scene. We also talk about health risks on set, filming on a rubbish mountain, the desert hut, the bomb and hospital scenes, the American embassy, the hotel, the girls' home and thinking outside the box.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Scouting Morocco • Filming on a rubbish mountain • Building the American embassy • Thinking outside the box
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:52 The Making of Body of Lies 3:09 Location Scouting 5:10 Exploring Different Locations 6:55 Journey to Morocco 10:09 Reflections on Body of Lies 11:58 The Torture Scene 14:02 Set Design 15:47 Health Risks on Set 17:59 Filming on a Rubbish Mountain 21:56 Constructing the Desert Hut 22:54 Designing the Hospital Scene 28:21 Creating the American Embassy Scene 33:11 Designing the Embassy's Aesthetic 34:38 Importance of Location Choices 35:59 Designing the Hotel Scene 39:00 Designing the Girls' Home 40:44 Overcoming Challenges in Set Design 43:29 Reflections on the Experience 48:15 Thinking Outside the Box 52:49 Confidence in Writing 53:31 Comparing Different Writing Styles
ABOUT THE GUEST Sonja Klaus is a set decorator and a longtime collaborator of Ridley Scott, with credits including Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, American Gangster, Body of Lies, Prometheus and The Martian.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_eawGL6hIc
Get Body of Lies on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001IWELHM?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 298: Producing Pi and Requiem for a Dream | Eric Watson
Producing Pi and Requiem for a Dream. Producer Eric Watson on Sundance, Artisan and the score of Requiem.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with producer Eric Watson to talk about making Darren Aronofsky's Pi and Requiem for a Dream. Eric shares moving to New York, the road to Sundance, distribution with Artisan and the success of Pi. We also talk about finding, casting, shooting and finishing Requiem for a Dream, the importance of sound and score, how the film hit audiences, the end of his collaboration with Darren and staying friends in Hollywood.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Getting Pi to Sundance • Casting Requiem for a Dream • Why the score matters • Friendship in Hollywood
CHAPTERS 0:00 Moving to New York 0:56 The Impact of Requiem for a Dream 1:41 Work with Darren on Other Films 11:16 The Journey to Sundance 13:40 Distribution with Artisan 16:00 Release and Success of Pi 17:37 Finding Requiem for a Dream 21:30 Casting Requiem for a Dream 26:03 Shooting Requiem for a Dream 29:56 After Requiem and The Fountain 32:13 Why Sound Matters 36:40 Impact of Requiem on Audience 38:07 Importance of Sound and Score in Requiem 43:09 Influence of Requiem's Score in Other Films 46:49 End of Collaboration with Darren 49:00 Maintaining Friendship in Hollywood
ABOUT THE GUEST Eric Watson is an American film producer and screenwriter known for his partnership with Darren Aronofsky. An AFI graduate, he produced Pi, Requiem for a Dream and The Fountain.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_wRA5gEgC4
Get Requiem for a Dream on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013JZW884?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 297: Filming Secrets of the Bees | Director Nadége Laici
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Filming bees up close • Remembering Alastair McEwan • Why bees matter • What to leave out
CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 1:41 Secrets of the Bees 2:17 Getting into Wildlife Filmmaking 5:56 Inspiration from Nature and Wildlife 7:11 Exploring the World of Bees 12:24 Remembering Alastair McEwan 13:22 Planning and Execution of Filming Techniques 15:17 Beekeeping and the Impact of Bees 28:35 The Importance of Planting Flowers for Bees 32:13 What Was Left Out 36:16 What the Project Taught Her 40:22 Favorite Works and Future Plans
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 296: Decorating Bridgerton | Natalie Papageorgiadis
Decorating Bridgerton. Set decorator Natalie Papageorgiadis on Lady Penwood's drawing room, the conservatory and the cottage.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with set decorator Natalie Papageorgiadis to talk about Bridgerton. Natalie shares whether this was her first season, Lady Penwood's drawing room with Sophie and Lady Penwood's character. We also talk about the conservatory scene, saying no to a project, her favorite films, the cottage and study scenes and what she would do differently.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Decorating for character • Lady Penwood's drawing room • The conservatory scene • Hotels to film sets
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:19 Natalie's First Bridgerton Season? 4:08 Lady Penwood's Drawing Room with Sophie 12:36 Lady Penwood's Character 19:59 The Conservatory Scene 24:39 Saying No to a Project 28:26 Natalie's Favorite Films 31:05 The Cottage Scene 33:40 The Cottage and the Study 40:29 Scenes She Would Do Differently
ABOUT THE GUEST Natalie Papageorgiadis is an interior designer with nine years in luxury hotels across Europe, North Africa and Asia who moved into film set decoration. Her film and TV work includes Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, The Crown and Bridgerton.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQgoy-cqCrM
Get Julia Quinn's An Offer From a Gentleman, the book behind Season 4: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001E1GJZO?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 295: Making The Dinosaurs | Jolyon Sutcliffe & Joe Fereday
Making The Dinosaurs. Editors Jolyon Sutcliffe and Joe Fereday on real nature versus VFX nature.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editors Jolyon Sutcliffe and Joe Fereday to talk about Netflix's The Dinosaurs. They share how it all started, how a sequence was shot and real nature versus VFX nature. We also talk about how they got into film, why filming nature feels divine, whether a long project gets boring and what's next.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • How a sequence comes together • Real nature versus VFX • Getting into film • Staying fresh on a long project
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 2:32 How It All Started 7:52 How a Sequence Was Shot 14:08 Real Nature vs VFX Nature 20:31 How They Got into Film 26:59 Filming Nature is Divine 31:51 Does a Project Get Boring? 36:16 What's Next
ABOUT THE GUESTS Jolyon Sutcliffe and Joe Fereday are British editors working in documentary and natural history. Both edited Netflix's The Dinosaurs.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QS777QWwz3g
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 294: Gladiator II: Making Ridley Scott's Sequel | John Walsh
Gladiator II: The Making of Ridley Scott's Epic Sequel. Author John Walsh on CG versus practical, being on set and talking to Ridley and Denzel.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with author John Walsh to talk about his book Gladiator II: The Making of Ridley Scott's Epic Sequel. John shares how he got the gig, CG versus practical effects and whether he was on set. We also talk about stories from the production, talking to Ridley Scott and Denzel Washington, AI and Gladiator II and what he learned.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Access to Ridley Scott's set • CG versus practical • Talking to Denzel • What John learned
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 2:00 Getting the Gig 9:07 CG vs Practical Effects 17:59 Was John on Set? 22:56 Stories from Set 27:49 Talking to Ridley and Denzel 31:19 AI and Gladiator II 38:14 What John Learned
ABOUT THE GUEST John Walsh is a British author and filmmaker who writes on film. He wrote Gladiator II: The Making of Ridley Scott's Epic Sequel.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vtBOn9T9dA
Get John Walsh's Gladiator II: The Art and Making of the Ridley Scott Film: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1419780166?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 293: Shooting Netflix's The Dinosaurs | DP Jamie McPherson
Shooting Netflix's The Dinosaurs. DP Jamie McPherson on locations, empty spaces and color grading with ILM.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer Jamie McPherson to talk about The Dinosaurs, executive produced by Steven Spielberg for Netflix. Jamie shares the breathtaking locations, shooting empty spaces for VFX and the most challenging scene. We also talk about color grading with ILM, his favorite part and how long he can keep going.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Choosing the locations • Shooting empty plates for dinosaurs • Working with ILM • Light and scale
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:38 A Breathtaking Series 5:39 The Locations 15:04 Shooting Empty Spaces 19:10 Most Challenging Scene 25:04 Color Grading and ILM 31:04 Jamie's Favorite Part 37:24 How Long Can I Last?
ABOUT THE GUEST Jamie McPherson is a cinematographer and director of photography on Netflix's The Dinosaurs.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JiNXL5Wxy1w
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Editing Nuremberg. Editor Tom Eagles on the hanging scene, a 2.5 hour studio film and Kiwi talent.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editor Tom Eagles to talk about James Vanderbilt's Nuremberg. Tom shares the hanging scene, the execution footage and the standout performances. We also talk about Kiwi talent, the studio's role in a 2.5 hour film, first versus second assistant editors, what's next and who he would love to work with.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Weaving in archive footage • Letting moments breathe • Cutting a 2.5 hour film • Assistant editor roles
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:39 Instant Reaction 7:29 The Hanging Scene 11:21 The Execution Footage 17:16 Outstanding Performances 23:01 The Kiwi Talent 27:48 The Studio and a 2.5 Hour Film 39:41 First vs Second Assistant Editor 45:24 What's Next for Tom 49:02 Who Tom Would Work With
ABOUT THE GUEST Tom Eagles is a New Zealand born film editor. He earned an Academy Award nomination for Taika Waititi's Jojo Rabbit and also edited Nuremberg.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPuB_Y49IwE
Get Nuremberg on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G5RKXQJW?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 291: Editing Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die | Craig Wood
Editing Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die. Editor Craig Wood on Gore Verbinski's sci-fi film, the controversial scene and AI doom and gloom.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with editor Craig Wood to talk about Gore Verbinski's Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die. Craig shares the controversial scene, collaborating with VFX and the film's color tones. We also talk about AI doom and gloom, and close with a pop quiz about life and work.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The controversial scene • Working with VFX • Color and tone • AI fears
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:32 Blown Away by the Film 9:50 The Controversial Scene 16:53 Working with VFX 28:01 The Color Tones 33:46 AI Doom and Gloom 37:32 Pop Quiz
ABOUT THE GUEST Craig Wood is a film and television editor whose credits include Guardians of the Galaxy, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl and At World's End, and The Ring.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qStMXk8_ZXo
Get The Ring on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001990LJG?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 290: Directing the Bridgerton Finale | Anya Adams
Directing the Bridgerton finale. Director Anya Adams on blocking, the class system and fears on set.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with director Anya Adams to talk about directing episodes 7 and 8, the finale of Bridgerton. Anya shares her early career, how she got on Bridgerton and being a director versus an AD. We also talk about the class system in the show, her blocking process, fears on set, what she learned about herself and a few fun questions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • From AD to director • Blocking the finale • The class system on screen • Facing fears on set
CHAPTERS 0:00 Teaser 1:35 Early Career 6:07 Getting on Bridgerton 14:06 Director vs AD 19:47 The Class System 28:57 Anya's Blocking Process 36:04 Fears on Set 39:54 What Anya Learned About Herself 45:14 Fun Questions
ABOUT THE GUEST Anya Adams is an American television director whose credits include Black-ish, Fresh Off the Boat, The Mindy Project, Ginny and Georgia, A League of Their Own, Yellowjackets and Bridgerton.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwCpgRVHMqk
Get Julia Quinn's An Offer From a Gentleman, the book behind Season 4: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001E1GJZO?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 289: The Lawnmower Man Director's Cut | Brett Leonard
The Lawnmower Man director's cut. Director Brett Leonard on early CGI, New Line Cinema and AI and copyright.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with director Brett Leonard to talk about The Lawnmower Man and its new director's cut. Brett shares why the film is still relevant, its computer animation and spotting talent early. We also talk about the story of the director's cut, New Line Cinema and independent film, the production design, the last act, challenging stories, AI and copyright and what's next.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Early virtual reality on screen • Restoring the director's cut • New Line and indie film • AI and copyright
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:51 Why the Film Is Still Relevant 9:00 The Computer Animation 15:05 Spotting Talent Early 17:06 The Story of the Director's Cut 22:13 New Line Cinema and Independent Film 23:57 The Production Design 29:41 Does the Film Still Connect? 32:19 The Last Act 36:57 Challenging Stories 40:07 AI and Copyright 44:09 What's Next
ABOUT THE GUEST Brett Leonard is an American director and producer known for exploring virtual reality and digital technology in film, including The Lawnmower Man and Virtuosity.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wgssx7QzXQY
Get The Lawnmower Man on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XHSV95G?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 288: Animating Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio | Jan Erik Maas
Animating Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio. Animator Jan Erik Maas on dark scenes, his father and how stop motion works.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with stop motion animator Jan Erik Maas to talk about Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio. Jan Erik shares how he got on the film, the dark scenes and the toll they took, and his relationship with his father. We also talk about the stop motion process, what he learned and networking.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Getting on Pinocchio • The toll of dark scenes • Fathers and sons • How stop motion works
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:38 Jan Erik's Work 4:06 Loving the Film 12:04 Getting onto Pinocchio 23:45 Dark Scenes and Their Toll 30:45 Relationship with His Father 41:25 The Stop Motion Process 47:58 What Jan Erik Learned 1:00:11 Networking
ABOUT THE GUEST Jan Erik Maas is a stop motion animator and visual effects artist who animated on Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfqpTQtOKyU
Get Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio: A Timeless Tale Told Anew: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1647224470?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 287: Shooting Anaconda's Jungle Scenes | DP Nigel Bluck
Shooting Anaconda's jungle scenes. DP Nigel Bluck on the squirrel sequence, underwater deaths and AI.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with cinematographer Nigel Bluck to talk about the new Anaconda with Jack Black. Nigel shares whether he saw the original, the final squirrel sequence and the colors of the film. We also talk about the VFX anaconda, the underwater deaths, coverage and close ups, EPK reshoots and the viral AI fight video.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • The squirrel sequence • Lighting the jungle • The underwater attacks • Coverage and close ups
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 1:59 Have You Seen the Original Anaconda? 6:57 Final Squirrel Sequence 16:48 The Colors of the Film 22:38 The VFX Anaconda 26:36 The Underwater Deaths 31:57 Coverage and Close Ups 33:58 EPK Reshoots 36:45 The AI Fight Video
ABOUT THE GUEST Nigel Bluck is a New Zealand cinematographer working across film and television, and the director of photography on the new Anaconda.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_ztUaZgqnU
Get Anaconda (1997) on Blu-ray: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K31RC52?tag=skyblueprod0f-20 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com
Ep 286: Dining with Stars | Film Critic Anupama Chopra
Dining with Stars. Film critic Anupama Chopra on three decades of interviews, fainting at an interview and whether Bollywood is dying.
On this episode of the Kingdom of Dreams Podcast, I sit down with film critic and author Anupama Chopra to talk about her book Dining with Stars, drawn from her Film Companion interviews. Anupama shares how she chose the interviews, how she got into journalism and what three decades have taught her. We also talk about the hardest moments of her career, covering film festivals, reviews versus interviews, intimidating interviews, the films she loves and whether Bollywood is dying.
KEY TAKEAWAYS • Turning 3,000 videos into a book • Staying passionate as a critic • Interviewing legends • The future of Bollywood
CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 2:20 Putting the Book Together 3:40 How Anupama Got into Journalism 6:55 What Three Decades Taught Her 10:25 The Hardest Moments 14:15 Watching Films at Festivals 17:15 Reviews or Interviews? 18:10 Intimidating Interviews 19:55 Films She Loves 21:50 Is Bollywood Dying? 23:55 Why Read the Book? 25:20 What's Next
ABOUT THE GUEST Anupama Chopra is an Indian film critic, journalist and author. She worked as a film journalist at India Today and founded the digital film platform Film Companion. Her books include Sholay: The Making of a Classic and Dining with Stars.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sv5JatQQ7GA
Watch the feature films I have directed Citizen of Moria (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/citizenofmoriafilm In Search of My Sister (Amazon & other platforms): https://linktr.ee/insearchofmysisterfilm Official website: https://jawadmir.com