NICKSAV Film & Music SHOW

Byron Reese is a futurist and an optimist. His new book We Are Agora: How Humanity Functions as a Single Superorganism That Shapes Our World and Our Future is named after the Ancient Greek marketplace and suggests that we might be part of a bigger entity that shapes our ends. Does the book have the insights we need to revitalize a sense of optimism even amidst dystopian times though?

Hello again. The podcast has been on hiatus for a bit. I'm bringing it back in video form at least for a limited season. In this episode, I will discuss why I stopped doing the show, what brought me back, and where I hope to head in context of the films Gattaca, Begin Again, and Jerry Maguire. If you're trying to find your way or just trying to stay the course, perhaps this is for you. Podcast page: nicksav.show Videos I've made for captivating couples, bands, and companies: nsavides.com

A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend and do podcast coverage at the 50th Nashville Film Festival. While there, I interviewed a number of filmmakers and filled an entire notebook with observations about the various films and events I attended. My Nashville Film Festival podcast coverage began with this interview I did with some of the filmmakers behind Lost Bayou. More filmmaker interviews are coming soon. Here, I'll recap some of the notable films and experiences I had at the festival and share some of the things I learned while attending. The filmmakers, musicians, and creative people who I aim to serve with this podcast are those who seek truth and care about exploring big ideas, and so I will strive for both, as I've done with other festivals I've covered. The first pass at my podcast commentary of Nashville Film Festival came in close to three hours, so I've broken it up into three parts. Part I includes General observations and strengths of the festival Music insights from a few panels and films Reactions to Marriage Story, the new Noah Baumbach film; Speed of Life, a narrative film in which the death of David Bowie causes a disruption to the space-time continuum that threatens the romance of a young couple; and Chuck Berry, the documentary about the founding father of rock n roll that premiered at the festival. Part II will be the meat of the coverage, where I go through a number of feature films I saw at the festival and discuss what worked for me and what didn't and explore some of the ideas and the topics in certain films. In Part III, I will share my top five films from Nashville Film Festival and why I picked them. Part II and III will get added to this page in a couple of days. Subscribe to the podcast to get the new episodes as they become available. # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make friendly, engaging videos for earnest people. # https://vimeo.com/291833120 We got to explore all kinds of places in Houston while making this music video I directed for the chamber-rock band Mystery Loves Company. Not long after the video was released, the band got an opportunity to perform at a few venues in France. More of my videos are here. Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episodes A number of the films that screened at Nashville Film Festival this year also screened at SXSW 2019. Episodes from my SXSW 2019 podcast coverage are here. # Related Things Nashville Film Festival Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Collegiate film T-shirts from Chad McClarnon SNL's 1950s music sketch featuring Will Ferrell Tunefind, useful for finding music featured on films, TV shows, and games Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. Films Mentioned Alice America, America Berry Hill: From Creative Workshop and Beyond Chuck Berry  Country Music (the docuseries from Ken Burns) Marriage Story Red Dog VR films Accused #2: Walter Sisulu Ambrosia Agreda's Dungeon Only at the Air, Only at Each Other # Musicians Mentioned Chuck Berry Corey Hart Dave Bartholomew # If You Liked the Show Leave a donation to help keep the show going. Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review: Apple Podcasts Spotify Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO

My podcast coverage of Nashville Film Festival begins with Lost Bayou, a film that premiered at Tribeca and went on to win Best Picture at the El Dorado Film Festival. Lost Bayou tells the story of a struggling addict who returns home to the Louisiana bayou to reconnect with her faith healer father, only to discover he's hiding a troubling secret aboard his houseboat. During the Nashville Film Festival, I had the chance to interview director Brian Richard, writer-actor Hunter Burke, and actor Jackson Beals about the film. Some of the things we discuss include Honoring not exploiting the Cajun faith-healing community Getting the Cajun accents right and using them for story purposes Working with the Grammy-winning band Lost Bayou Ramblers on the soundtrack Nurturing a family-like atmosphere on set Exploring a crisis of faith on screen Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make friendly, engaging videos for earnest people. My videos are here. Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com   Related Episode A few years ago I had the opportunity to interview Brian and Hunter about their short film Atchafalaya. It's included in my coverage of the New Orleans Film Festival 2015. # Related Things Nashville Film Festival Lost Bayou Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Good for What Ails You, the doc directed by Glen Pitre that explores Cajun faith healers. Lost Bayou Ramblers, the band that provided the music for the film If you are in or near New Orleans, you can catch Lost Bayou on Oct. 17 & 23 at the New Orleans Film Festival. Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review: Apple Podcasts Spotify Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Just a quick update about the recent hiatus, and where I'm at with the show. Short version: the podcast will return with my coverage at the 50th Nashville Film Festival. Special thanks to Stephen T. Hoover. His script Damage Control made it into the top-four finalist round for half-hour pilots in the festival's screenwriting contest, and he was the impetus for me to attend and cover the festival. Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make friendly, engaging videos for earnest people. This is Up to Date, a short comedy about a blind date gone wrong. It's the first live-action short I directed, and it was written by Stephen Hoover. More of my videos are here. Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com #   Related Things Stephen T. Hoover on IMDd "One Song Away" by Ivan & Alyosha on Spotify

In this episode I reflect on my podcast interview with writer Tom Piazza and share more of my thoughts about HBO's Tremeand how it compares to The Wire, both of which were created by David Simon. Afterwards I share some updates about some possibilities on the horizon. # Sponsor for this Episode   nsavides productions – I make friendly, engaging videos for earnest people. # This music video was one of the things that brought me to Louisiana. # More of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episodes On this podcast commentary from the 2018 Cutting Edge Music Conference, I share some takeaways about the New Orleans music community. My interviews episode from Cutting Edge 2018 includes a story about Clarence "Frogman" Henry.   # Related Things   Treme on Amazon Prime Recommended episodes of Treme Honorable mention: 1.8 "All on a Mardi Gras Day" 1.10 "I'll Fly Away" 2.4 "Santa Claus, Do You Ever Get the Blues" 2.7 "Carnival Time" 2.10 "That's What Lovers Do" 4.5 "… To Miss New Orleans" The Wire on Amazon Prime  Tom's site  Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow.   Shows Mentioned Better Call Saul Goliath Treme The Practice The Princess and the Frog Rolling Thunder Revue Waiting for Godot The Wire # Books Mentioned City of Refuge Devil Sent the Rain: Music and Writing in Desperate America The Executioner's Song  A Free State Le Morte d'Arthur Why New Orleans Matters Understanding Jazz: Ways to Listen # Musicians and Albums Mentioned  Allen Toussaint Big Freedia Bob Dylan  Clarence "Frogman" Henry Clay Parker and Jodi James - The Lonesomest Sound That Can Sound  Fats Domino Jazz Fest: The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Even in the early days of the internet, Brian Solis was advising prominent companies about how to use social media to connect with potential customers. He's been called "one of the greatest digital analysts of our time" and has been sought out by the likes of Oprah, Shaq and Ashton Kutcher.  Brian is also an award-winning author and world-renowned keynote speaker. I met Brian at SXSW 2019, during his book launch event for Lifescale: How to Live a More Creative, Productive, and Happy Life. As Brian explains in our interview, the book developed out of a conversation he had after speaking at SXSW 2018: He was challenged to provide an answer to the questions he had raised about the dark side of social media. Lifescale became his answer. Writing the book made him rethink his priorities and pursue deeper, more meaningful connections with the people in his life. The book had a similar effect on me and helped me prepare for new creative possibilities, so I brought Brian on the show to discuss it. Some of the things Brian and I discuss in this episode include How social media can rewire people and societies When the personal approach can be right approach Using design principles to create a more reading experience The life-changing impact of Walt Disney a certain animated short How to develop deeper, more meaningful connections with others Practical things we can do to rekindle our creativity # Sponsor for this Episode   nsavides productions – I make friendly, engaging videos for earnest people.   # This music video I shot for Long Division, a post-rock band from Virginia, was nominated for an award by Veer Magazine. # More of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episodes Todd Henry, founder and CEO of Accidental Creative, came on the showto discuss how to get past writer's block, live with purpose, and discover our life's work. # Related Things I met Brian at his Lifescale book event at SXSW 2019.   Brian's site LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter lifescaling.me Alikeanimated short Lifescalegot included in this cnbc.com list of notable books in 2019 "Human Contact Is Now a Luxury Good"as explained in The New York Times Brian's Lifescaleevent at SXSW got mentioned as one of my highlights of SXSW 2019 Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Books Mentioned Lifescale: How to Live a More Creative, Productive, and Happy Life What's the Future of Business? X: The Experience Where Business Meets Design # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Jenna Suru's early film career involved working for Gaumont, one of the major French film studios and the world's first and oldest film company. There she was in charge of distributing Gaumont new releases to film festivals around the world. Later she went on to work for SND Groupe M6, a French distributor that also distributes American films in France including the Twilight series and Scream 4. She also received some film production experience in Los Angeles, where she worked as a production assistant and then a producer on a couple of shows. Her various industry experiences helped her to form Belle Époque Films, so that she could support emerging filmmakers and produce her own projects. "There is no beautiful piece of art really possible if you're just alone." - Jenna Suru Influenced by films like And God Created Woman and the Before Sunrise trilogy, L'Âge d'Or is her company's debut feature film, which she wrote, directed, produced, and co-starred in. The film tells the story of a penniless Franco-American producer and an ambitious French theater actress who meet in Paris, 1967 and embark on an artistic quest to change the world that leads them to Saint-Tropez, a coastal town on the French Riviera and a fabled artistic haven. Some of the things Jenna and I discuss in this episode include How artists can change the world Challenges of shooting a period piece Experiences that allowed Jenna to wear multiple hats on her debut feature film The benefits of securing music rights before shooting begins How her acting background influences her work as a director What makes Saint-Tropez so special # Sponsor for this Episode   nsavides productions – I make friendly, engaging videos for earnest people.   Chloe & Jake got married on May 4, 2019 at the Swedenborg Chapel in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Their wedding had all the charm and personality that Greeks bring when celebrating a special event. May 4 is also known as Star Wars Day, so the wedding even included some Star Wars accents. Those are some of the reasons why it was such a delight to shoot!   More of my videos are here.   Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episodes For more on what it takes to produce optimistic films that can change the world, check out this podcast interview with Golden Globe-winning producer Lindsay Doran (Sense and Sensibility, Sabrina, Stranger Than Fiction). # Related Things   Jenna on LinkedIn, IMDb, Instagram Jenna's company, Belle Époque Films L'Âge d'Oron Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow.   # Films Mentioned Anna  And God Created Woman  Before Sunrise trilogy The Intouchables (2011) L'Âge d'Or" La Piscine (1969) La Vie en Rose Life of Pi  # Musicians Mentioned The Beatles Chuck Berry The Rolling Stones # # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Author Tom Piazza has written 12 books, many of which feature New Orleans, music, or both. His post-Katrina manifesto Why New Orleans Mattershelped to inspire the HBO show Treme, and the show's co-creator David Simon brought him on as a staff writer largely because of it. Tom received a Grammy Award for his album notes to Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues: A Musical Journey and has also written for numerous publications including The New York Times, The Atlantic, and The Oxford American. I met with Tom at the historic Columns Hotel in New Orleans to talk about his work and the city that has shaped so much of it. Some of the things we discuss in the episode include Highlights from the 50th anniversary of Jazz Fest How to write about a place like a local What not to do when writing music criticism Research that went into his album notes for Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues How the writing room on Treme worked together to flesh out challenging story points     Sponsor for this Episode   nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories.   This is the video I put together to commemorate The Rayo Brothers' performance at Jazz Fest 2018. For part of their set they were joined by Grammy-winning musician Louis Michot from the Lost Bayou Ramblers.    This wedding video I shot includes some classic New Orleans elements including Brennan's, where Bananas Foster was invented; the Pontchartrain Hotel, where Tennessee Williams worked on his play Streetcar Named Desire; streetcars; and jazz.   More of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episodes One of the bands featured in Tremeis Papa Gros Funk. On this episode I interviewed the filmmakers behind Do U Want It, a documentary about the band that focuses on their final performances before their indefinite hiatus.   This episode features an interview with Laura Cayouette, a New Orleanian actress who played Kay, a recurring character on Treme. Laura is often recognized for her role in Django Unchained, where she played the sister of Leonardo DiCaprio's character.   # Related Things Tom's site Tremeon Amazon Prime An Unofficial Guide to Tremeon the Beyond Bourbon St. podcast The Columns Hotel  A blog post I wrote on Martin Scorsese, which includes some discussion on the blues series for which Tom did the liner notes. Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Books Mentioned An American Dream by Norman Mailer City of Refugeby Tom Piazza Invisible Manby Ralph Ellison La Vita Nuovaby Dante The Sound and the Furyby William Faulkner Understanding Jazz: Ways to Listenby Tom Piazza Why New Orleans Mattersby Tom Piazza # Musicians Mentioned Barbecue Bob Bill Monroe Bob Dylan Bonnie Raitt The Carter family Diana Krall Elvis Costello Hank Williams Jimmie Rodgers John Prine Muddy Waters # Shows Mentioned Deadwood Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues: A Musical Journey Treme  The Wire  # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Renting film equipment can seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. John Baumgartner, the rental manager at Expressway Cinema Rentals in Philadelphia, came on the podcast to walk filmmakers through the rental process.   "... at the end of the day I'm not going to let you walk out of my rental house not being able to make your picture." -John Baumgartner Some of the things we discuss in this episode include How much time to plan for testing equipment What options filmmakers have in dealing with insurance Essential but sometimes overlooked accessories needed for a shoot Popular cameras & lenses and what makes them appealing New equipment that could make a difference on set   Sponsor for this Episode   nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. Some of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episodes Patrick Moreau is a filmmaker and co-founder of the Portland-based, Emmy-winning production company Stillmotion. He shares his approach to storytelling and film equipment in this episode. Dan Laustsen, the cinematographer on The Shape of Water, Crimson Peak, and John Wick 2, explains his approach to lighting on this episode: # Related Things   Expressway Cinema Rentals blog, Facebook, Instagram video recap of Expressway's 2019 Summer Gear Expo video recap of Expressway's recent Grip & Electric Bootcamp shotonwhat.com- resource for exploring equipment using on a film Insurance options mentioned Temporary Insurance Rec. for Expressway provided by JonPaul Evans from the Truman Van Dyke Company buymyinsurancenow.com through agreements with kit-sharing sites like KitSplitand ShareGrid Cameras mentioned ARRI ALEXA Mini Canon EOS 7D Sony FS7 Sony Venice Lenses mentioned ARRI Ultra Primes Canon FDs Canon K35s Cooke Speed Panchros - rehoused Leica Rs Leica Summicrons Rokinon Zeiss CP.2s Filters mentioned streak filters Tiffen Pro-Mist filter Lighting equipment mentioned Astera Titan Tube eggcrate grid - for narrowing the spread of a light LiteGear LiteTile Power accessories mentioned Anton Bauer V-Mount battery Core SWX battery Other accessories mentioned Dana Dolly DJI Ronin Easyrig Focusbug - Ultrasonic rangerfinder system Freefly Systems Movi Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Films & Shows Mentioned 21 Bridges Glass Mindhunter Split Solo The Upside   If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!  

Kate Krantz, the Chief Content Officer for Crypt TV, began her career by working for William Morris Endeavor. From there, she went to work for Walt Disney Studios in live-action production. That gave her a chance to observe how Disney developed characters and intellectual property beloved by millions around the world. Those observations helped her manage Crypt TV's universe of monsters, which have brought Crypt TV over 1.5 billion worldwide views on social media and led to prominent partnerships with Netflix, Facebook, and more. Kate was also one of the panelists at a SXSW 2019 producers roundtable. Some of the things we discuss in this episode include How to build relationships at film festivals and other industry events Smart things that Disney does to keep their IP relevant for generations How filmmakers can partner with Crypt TV to build long-term careers What a compelling monster movie involves   Sponsor for this Episode   nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. This is a promo I shot for a theater company in Lafayette. # More of my videos are here. Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episodes CFX is a special effects and silicon mask-making company in Baton Rouge that has made masks and props for films like 2 Guns, Treme, and Twilight. I had a chance to interview some of their team and put together this video of their mask-making process. More on monster movies in this interview I did with Dan Laustsen, the cinematographer on The Shape of Water, Crimson Peak, and John Wick 2. # Related Things Crypt TV  Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube Crypt TV shows mentioned The Birch The Look-See Sunny Family Cult Thing in the Apartment Meredith Alloway, the filmmaker Kate mentioned whose short Deep Tissuepremiered at SXSW Sam Claitor, a producer at Fable House, helped to make this episode happen. Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. #   Other Films & Shows Mentioned The Babadook   Bride of Frankenstein Christopher Robin Crimson Peak  Dracula Edward Scissorhands  The Elephant Man Frankenstein  Get Out  It Follows  Maleficent The Phantom of the Opera Star Wars  Van Helsing    If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!  

For the past 23 years, Cyber PR Founder Ariel Hyatt has been helping prominent musicians and creative people use public relations, marketing, and social media to connect with fans and be more engaging. She's also written four books on the music industry and is an internationally recognized speaker who has spoken at conferences around the world including SXSW, Vivid Sydney, Hubspot Ignite, and Campus Party London. Her work has been recognized in publications ranging from Oprah, CNN, Wired, Billboard, Forbes.com, and The Washington Post, just to name a few. Ariel came on the show to share her engagement insights. Some of the things we discuss include How to develop a personal narrative Fun things to post on social media How music saved Ariel's life and why it matters What not to do when trying to get attention for your music Compelling campaigns that caught Ariel's attention How to develop relationships with writers Sponsor for this Episode   nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. This is the video I shot with Sean Gasser for The Excelleauxs at Blues Fest this year. More of my videos are here. Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Episode One prominent musician that Ariel has worked with is Bree Noble, an awarding-winning musician, speaker, author, entrepreneur founder of Women of Substance Radio & The Female Entrepreneur Musician. Bree also shares some resources for musicians looking to build sustainable careers in this podcast interview.      # Related Things Cyber PRand Cyber PR Music Podcast Ariel on Facebook, Twitter Freebies from Ariel Some of the campaigns that Ariel highlighted include Ariana Grande Brené Brown Chris Barron Danielle LaPorte Guster Janelle Monáe Michael Franti  Documentary I mentioned: Social Animals Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow.   # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!  

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse developed a new approach to computer animation so as to translate the comic-book experience for the big screen. Academy voters took notice and awarded the film an Oscar for Best Animated Feature. One of the last things that moviegoers see before leaving the film is the hyperkinetic title sequence animated by visual studio Alma Mater. The sequence was featured at SXSW 2019 in a compilation of compelling title sequences, and it made enough of an impression that it won SXSW's jury-awarded Excellence in Title Design accolade. As part of my festival coverage of SXSW 2019, I sat down with title sequence co-director James Ramirez to learn more about what went into making the sequence. Some of the things we discuss include The different styles of animation that went into the sequence and how they put it together in Cinema 4D How they worked with the filmmakers behind Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse to supplement the ideas and characters of the film The way they implemented the half-tone look What filmmakers should keep in mind when planning for a title sequence # Related Episode To hear more about how vintage animation styles have influenced computer animation, check out this interview with Limbert Fabian and Brandon Oldenburg, Oscar-winning directors from Moonbot Studios, in Shreveport, Louisiana. # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. Some of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Things Alma Mater Jame's site, friedpixels.com James on Instagram, Twitter This Art of the Title article provides an in-depth discussion with illustrations about how the title sequence came together. James gave a shout out to the Deadpool 2 title sequence. Imaginary Forces, one of the agencies whose work James admires, worked on titles for Stranger Things and Mad Men. Jack Kirby, an early Spider-Man artist, provided design inspiration for both the film and title sequence of Into the Spider-Verse.  While we didn't get to discuss this in the interview, James also did some motion graphics work on Stranger Than Fiction, a film that has been a big inspiration for me. My interview with Stranger Than Fiction's producer Lindsay Doran is over here. Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. Concept Art  Ben Apley, producer for Alma Mater's Into the Spider-Verse title sequence, graciously shared some images to illustrate how the concept developed. Visit show page to see. # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!  

On this episode, I explore some of the big ideas and political discussions I heard at SXSW 2019. While this is not an inherently political show, political outlooks inform the films, music, and art we take in and strive to create, whether directly or indirectly. SXSW isn't just a prominent film and music festival. It's also where presidential hopefuls and thought leaders gather to share their perspectives on the world, and so the festival can serve as a bellwether for where the culture is heading. This episode is a little different than the typical coverage I do, but it does allow for a more in-depth discussion on some of the ideas behind the films and music at the festival. It also gave me an opportunity to share some things on my heart. I hope some of you will find it helpful. # Related Episode The first episode I did on SXSW 2019 highlights some of the memorable films, music, and experiences that stuck out for me. # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. Some of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Things   SXSW Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review: Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

First-time directors face all kinds of unexpected challenges. For Alex Ferrari, host of the Indie Film Hustle podcast, that meant trying to shoot a $20 million feature film in Louisiana and across the country for a bipolar, egomaniacal gangster. The dream of becoming a feature-film director turned into a nightmare for Alex, and it led to a textbook example of how not to make a film. That traumatic experience went on to forge Alex's interest in helping other filmmakers avoid similar heartaches. He provides a detailed account of what happened and the lessons he learned along the way in his new book, Shooting for the Mob. # Alex came on the show to discuss some of the life lessons he learned from that experience and his years in the industry. Some of the things we discuss include How his schedule helps him stay prolific What to avoid when making a feature film The important role that meditation plays in his life How to follow our dreams while being true to ourselves How to build meaningful relationships in a industry filled with shallow ones # Related Episode If you want to hear more about Alex, check out the first interview I did with himwhere we discuss his work as a post-production supervisor and his insights about building an engaged community. # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. Recently I had the honor of shooting Andy and Cece's classic New Orleans wedding: https://vimeo.com/308438268 More of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Things Alex Ferrari on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Indie Film Hustle Shooting for the Mob Indie Film Hustle TV Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Films & Shows Mentioned Carnivale  El Mariachi  Goodfellas The Good Place Reservoir Dogs This is Meg This is Spinal Tap # Books Mentioned The Count of Monte Cristo The Odyssey  Shooting for the Mob # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review: Apple Podcasts Spotify Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Our SXSW 2019 podcast coverage continues with two representatives from film-financing company Forest Road. The company sponsored one of the filmmaker dinners at SXSW this year. More importantly, they are a financing company that puts the filmmakers first. Forest Road Company's CEO Zach Tarica and Director of West Coast Operations Eric Boshart came on the podcast to break down the film financing process and what filmmakers should know when preparing to secure financing. Financing is a huge aspect of filmmaking, but for all kinds of reasons film financing companies are often hesitant to go on record about how they do business. Defying those tendencies, Zach and Eric spoke openly about their process and advocated for more transparency in the industry. # Some of the things we discuss include How to protect the equity behind a project Fees to watch for during the budgeting process What should a good term sheet and opinion letter include How to determine which states have the best tax incentives for film Highlights from SXSW 2019 # Related Episode  If you appreciate Zach and Eric's transparency about the filmmaking process, you might also appreciate the transparency that 1091 (formerly The Orchard), a prominent film distributor, brings to their filmmaker collaborations. When I met Richard Matson during SXSW 2017, he was the vice president of theatrical distribution at The Orchard. # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. Some of my videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Things forestroadco.com Zach& Eric on LinkedIn  The New York Timesreview for After Everything  Forest Road ranks state tax incentive programs Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Films & Shows Mentioned After Everything Moonlight  # Companies Mentioned ABS Payroll  The Borscht Corp. The Exchange Forest Road Company Technicolor Postworks  # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review: Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Recently I had the opportunity to do podcast coverage at SXSW 2019, my third time doing coverage at Austin's preeminent film and music festival. (Before, I did coverage there as The nsavides Podcast. I changed the name to NICKSAV Film & Music SHOW for clarity and because nicksav.show is easier to remember then podcast.nsavides.com.) Part I of my coverage includes some general observations about the festival, what captured my attention and why, and some of my favorite film and music experiences # Related Episode Producer Sam Claitor from Fable House helped me put together my coverage of SXSW 2019. Back in 2018, I did this live episode of the show as an official event of SXSW 2018. # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. Some of my videos are here.   # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Things SXSW Calmstood out by bringing a two-toed sloth to the festival's exhibition hall The Peanut Butter Falcon, my favorite film experience at SXSW  The Tiny Desk music show at SXSW The launch party for Brain Solis's new book, Life Scale, was one of my most memorable experiences at the festival  Mark Falgout, organizer of this year's Lafayette party, was interviewed during my SXSW 2017 coverage Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Films & Shows Mentioned  Autonomy Game of Thrones Good Omens  The Highwaymen The Peanut Butter Falcon Running with Beto  # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

Years ago, I came to SXSW to see The Last Bison perform. Now with a few new hits and a refined sound, they're back, playing at Austin's esteemed film and music festival once more. Frontman Ben Hardesty came on the show to discuss The story behind their evolving sound What went into making their latest music video How they create a unified experience for their fans across the country What getting signed by a label has meant to the band Staying true to one's values while building an audience Make fans that are friends." - Ben Hardesty After the interview, you can hear Last Bison's song "Dark Am I."   # Related Episode Want to hear more music-interviews from SXSW? Check out this interview I did with the singer from Gothic Tropicfrom SXSW 2018. # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. This music video I directed got mentioned by Houston's leading morning talk show, Great Day Houston.   My videos are here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Things Last Bison Facebook, Instagram Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Bands & Musicians Mentioned The Decemberists Last Bison  Mumford & Sons Peter Gabriel  Simple Minds # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!

This is the commentary track for my interview with singer-songwriter Lynn Drury, who has been performing in New Orleans for over 20 years. Some of the things I discuss include How to be more effective as a performer  Building quality relationships over quantity  The role of the artist in the world at large  Things that get in the way of trying to make the world better in some way For links and more detailed show notes: http://podcast.nsavides.com/LynnDrury

The seventh season of the NICKSAV Film & Music SHOW kicks off with Lynn Drury, a singer-songwriter who has played music in New Orleans for over 20 years. Those in the know about the New Orleans music community go out of their way to see Lynn perform, as do audiences across the country and around the world. Some of the things we discuss include How to build a music career that lasts for years How to get music on TV show like NCIS: New Orleans What it takes to get established in a discerning music community How New Orleans has influenced Lynn's sound and outlook Collaborating with musicians to put on a great show Staying inspired in spite of heartache "Making music is knowing when to be quiet." -Lynn Drury Lynn's songs that we discuss include "11:11," "Anniversary," "Blue Streak," "Butterfly," and "Northern." After the interview, you can hear Lynn's song "Blue Streak."  # Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen enjoyed seeing Lynn perform at Tipitina's back in December. # Related Episode To hear more about the New Orleans music scene, check out this interview I did with the filmmakers behind the Papa Grows Funk documentary, Do U Want It? # Sponsor for this Episode nsavides productions – I make videos and tell stories. This music video I directed got mentioned by Houston's leading morning talk show, Great Day Houston. More of my work is here. # Say hello: podcast@nsavides.com # Related Things Lynn's site Facebook, Instagram Albums mentioned Rise of the Fall, Sugar on the Floor Newcomb Art Museum at Tulane, where Lynn has music for the Per(sister): Incarcerated Women of Louisianaexhibition, which runs through July 6, 2019  Shortcut for the podcast: nicksav.show Additional music for the show provided by Rob Costlow. # Bands & Musicians Mentioned Alex McMurra Amanda Walker Anders Osborne Carlo Nuccio Iguanas  Ivan Neville Jim McCormick Lynn Drury Mary Steenburgen Tommy Malone   Shows Mentioned The Good Place NCIS: New Orleans On Becoming a God in Central Florida # If You Liked the Show Sign up for The nsavides Newsletter. Subscribe or leave an honest review:   Apple Podcasts   Spotify   Overcast Say hello on Twitter:  @nsavidesPRO Thank you for visiting!