Methods of Fiction – Details, episodes & analysis

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Methods of Fiction

Thomas Wheeler

Tv & Film

Frequency: 1 episode/9d. Total Eps: 15

Every story has a process, and Methods of Fiction explores how great stories are made. Through engaging conversations with filmmakers and creative voices across film, television, and entertainment, the podcast dives into the craft, the journeys, and the ideas behind the work.

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Data updated on 11/08/2026

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Score global : 68%

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Behind the Scenes of Obsession & Cinematography | Riley Barker on Visual Storytelling

Season 1 · Episode 15

Monday, August 10, 2026 • Duration 45:58

In this episode, our special guest is Riley Barker. He is a cinematographer dedicated to bringing compelling stories to life through cinematic visuals and thoughtful visual storytelling.

We take a deep dive into cinematography, lighting, and the art of visual storytelling. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from working as the Second Assistant Camera alongside his brother, Curry Barker, writer-director of the smash-hit film Obsession, and talks about their work on the popular YouTube channel That's a Bad Idea. He also shares insights into other films he's worked on with his brother, his own filmmaking journey, and what it takes to craft memorable cinematic images.

Whether you're an aspiring cinematographer, filmmaker, or simply love learning how movies are made, this conversation offers an insightful look into the creative and technical process behind visual storytelling.

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Creative Lessons from a Sundance Filmmaker | Diane Bell Writer, Director & Screenwriting Mentor

Season 1 · Episode 14

Monday, August 3, 2026 • Duration 01:01:15

In this episode, our special guest is Diane Bell. She is a writer, director, and mentor to screenwriters and filmmakers. She is also the author of the acclaimed book Shoot from the Heart: Successful Filmmaking from a Sundance Rebel, a popular go-to guide for independent filmmakers.

We dive deep into the storytelling process, how to write compelling stories and screenplays, the creative process behind writing, directing, and producing independent films, and the practical lessons she has learned throughout her filmmaking journey.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned storyteller, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

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Insider's Look at Designing Movie Action | Tara Macken Stunt Performer, Coordinator & Actress

Season 1 · Episode 13

Monday, July 27, 2026 • Duration 43:31

In this episode, our special guest is Tara Macken. She is a highly accomplished stunt performer, stunt coordinator, and actress who has helped bring the action to some of Hollywood's biggest blockbusters.

She shares behind-the-scenes stories from her career, discusses her work on major film and television productions, and offers an inside look at what it takes to create compelling action on screen.

We explore how action sequences are designed and executed, how stunt performers, directors, and actors collaborate to tell a story through movement. She also shares valuable insight for aspiring stunt performers, filmmakers, and actors on building a career in the industry, working safely on set, and creating action that is both believable and emotionally engaging.

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Action Films, Family Legacy, and Forging His Own Path | Kris Van Damme Actor and Filmmaker

Season 1 · Episode 12

Monday, July 20, 2026 • Duration 01:04:29

In this episode, our special guest is Kris Van Damme. He is an actor, writer, director, and producer. Kris shares behind the scenes stories from the films he has worked on, offers unique insight into what it was like growing up as the son of legendary action star Jean Claude Van Damme, and discusses how he forged his own successful career in the entertainment industry.

We also discuss acting, filmmaking, creativity, and the lessons he has learned while building a career in front of and behind the camera. If you are an actor, filmmaker, or film fan, this conversation is packed with honest stories and valuable insight.

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Better Storytelling Through the Actor's Process | John Rosenfeld, Veteran Actor & Acting Coach

Season 1 · Episode 11

Monday, July 13, 2026 • Duration 01:05:34

John Rosenfeld is a veteran film and television actor who has appeared in numerous acclaimed productions. He is also a highly respected, in-demand acting coach known for helping actors deliver authentic, emotionally compelling performances.

In this episode, we explore storytelling through the eyes of an actor and how understanding an actor's process can help writers, directors, and filmmakers create more authentic and emotionally compelling stories. John shares his approach to character development, script analysis, emotional truth, collaboration on set, and the invaluable lessons he's learned from decades working in the entertainment industry.

Whether you're an actor, writer, director, or filmmaker, this conversation offers practical insights into creating performances and stories that genuinely connect with audiences.

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From Psycho Goreman to A Knight's War | Matthew Ninaber on Independent Filmmaking

Season 1 · Episode 10

Monday, July 6, 2026 • Duration 56:34

In this episode, our special guest is Matthew Ninaber, a writer, director, producer, and actor known for A Knight's War and Death Valley. He also starred in the cult favorite Psycho Goreman, directed by Steven Kostanski, showing his ability to work both in front of and behind the camera.

We go into his approach to filmmaking, how he got started, and what it actually takes to get independent films made. We also talk about his experience writing, directing, producing, and acting on A Knight's War and Death Valley, including what it was like working on set while sometimes directing from inside a creature costume. We explore his creative mindset, what drives his passion for filmmaking, and his hands-on approach to independent production.

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Stephen King's The Long Walk Makeup Effects | Doug Morrow Makeup FX Master Film & TV

Season 1 · Episode 9

Monday, June 29, 2026 • Duration 01:02:00

In this episode, our special guest is Doug Morrow. He is a master makeup effects artist who has worked across some of the most recognizable film and television productions in the industry.

He breaks down the craft of practical makeup effects and how those techniques are used to support storytelling on screen. He shares behind-the-scenes insights from projects including the Stephen King adaptation The Long Walk (2025), and other major film and television productions he's contributed to over his career.

We explore how practical effects are designed and executed on set, how makeup effects interact with performance and cinematography, and he shares valuable insight for upcoming makeup artists and filmmakers on how to ensure their makeup application and visual storytelling consistently serve the story and elevate the characters on screen. He also offers insight on how to work closely with directors, understand the tone of a film, and translate that tone into effects that feel seamless, intentional, and cinematic.

If you're a filmmaker, makeup artist, or simply interested in how film magic is built practically on set, this conversation offers a grounded, entertaining look at the craft behind cinematic makeup effects and character transformation.

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Mortal Kombat 2 Movie Fight Choreography | Designed by Malay Kim & Michael Lehr

Season 1 · Episode 8

Monday, June 22, 2026 • Duration 01:14:51

Malay Kim and Michael Lehr are seasoned stunt performers and fight choreographers known for their work on major action productions, including the highly anticipated Mortal Kombat 2.

In this special joint episode, we dive deep into filmmaking, action design, and the craft of cinematic fight choreography. Malay and Michael share behind-the-scenes stories from working on Mortal Kombat 2, how they collaborate to design action sequences, and what it takes to bring large-scale fight scenes to life on a major studio production.

We also explore their individual approaches to stunt performance and fight choreography, how action is built from concept to execution, and the discipline required to work at the highest level of the stunt industry. From on-set workflow to creative decision-making, this conversation breaks down how modern screen combat is designed for film.

If you're a filmmaker, stunt performer, or action cinema fan, this episode offers a grounded look at the real craft behind Hollywood fight choreography.

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From The Monster Squad to Directing | Ryan Lambert on His Upcoming Short Film Debut

Season 1 · Episode 7

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 • Duration 01:30:21

Ryan Lambert is best known for portraying the iconic Rudy in the beloved 1987 cult classic The Monster Squad.

In this episode of Methods of Fiction, Ryan joins us to discuss his upcoming directorial debut, what it was like shooting on both 8mm and 16mm film, and his creative process as a writer and director. He shares insights into independent filmmaking, developing stories for the screen, and the lessons he's learned throughout his career in front of and behind the camera.

We also explore punk rock filmmaking, embracing creative limitations, the realities of making independent films today, and Ryan's evolution from cult-classic actor to filmmaker.

Whether you're a fan of The Monster Squad or an aspiring filmmaker, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiring stories from a creative who continues to push himself into new artistic territory.

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The Story Behind Obsession | Jeff Barker on Developing Curry Barker's Hit Psychological Thriller

Season 1 · Episode 6

Monday, June 8, 2026 • Duration 52:14

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Barker, award-winning screenwriter and script consultant on the hit horror film Obsession, written and directed by his son, Curry Barker. We discuss his journey into screenwriting, his work consulting on Obsession, and the storytelling principles that help shape compelling films.

Jeff shares behind-the-scenes stories from his involvement with Obsession, insights into screenwriting, storytelling, character development, and the realities of building a creative career as a writer. We also explore his upcoming directorial debut, his long history as a writer, and how his sons inspired him later in life to pursue filmmaking.

From screenplay craft to filmmaking lessons and industry experiences, this episode is an in-depth conversation about storytelling, creativity, and the passion behind bringing stories to life on screen.

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Methods of Fiction – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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Apple Podcasts

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Methods of Fiction – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify