Episodes

8h ago

Jon's Kickstarter Link Summary In this conversation, Jon Spira discusses his new book 'I'll Settle for Nothingness: Conversations with Mike Hodges', detailing the genesis of the book, his friendship with the legendary filmmaker, and the exploration of Hodges' versatile career. The discussion covers many things including the making of 'Morons from Outer Space', the challenges of unproduced films, and the emotional journey of writing the book. Spira also shares insights into Hodges' legacy, his experiences with the BFI, and the Kickstarter campaign for the book's publication. Takeaways The book is a collection of conversations with Mike Hodges. Jon Spira's friendship with Hodges developed through their shared love of cinema. 'Morons from Outer Space' is a film that has gained a cult following despite its initial failure. Hodges was a versatile filmmaker, working across various genres. The Terminal Man is a significant film that was poorly marketed and overlooked. Hodges had many unproduced films that reflect his creative vision. The BFI is preserving Hodges' legacy through his film archive. Spira aims to honor Hodges' memory through this book. The emotional journey of writing the book was profound for Spira. The Kickstarter campaign is a way to celebrate Hodges' work and legacy. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

16h ago

Rob Spera is a film and television director, educator, and the author of Film/TV Director’s Field Manual: 70 Maxims to Change Your Filmmaking. With decades of experience directing features, episodic television, and theatre, Rob brings a deeply practical, human-centred approach to directing and leadership. In this conversation, we discuss: Why Rob describes his book as an “anti-textbook” The idea that the camera’s job is to photograph subtext Building non-redundant frames that invite the audience to participate Why kindness and psychological safety are essential creative tools Letting go of control and empowering collaborators What “write what you know” really means How directors can practise their craft between jobs Film/TV Director’s Field Manual – available via Amazon and Rob’s website HAPPY HOLIDAYS! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 9

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I’m joined by Laurent Hopman and Renaud Roche, the writer and artist behind the acclaimed graphic novel Lucas Wars, which tells the behind-the-scenes story of the making of Star Wars from a deeply personal, human perspective. Laurent shares his background as an entertainment journalist and how years of research, interviews, books and documentaries fed into the script. Renaud talks about coming from a traditional animation and storyboarding background, studying at Gobelins in Paris, and how cinematic visual language shaped the way he approached the book’s artwork. We discuss: Why the emotional journey of George Lucas became the heart of the story How the pair condensed vast amounts of historical research into a tightly structured graphic novel The challenge of visually dramatising meetings, offices and creative conflict The relationship between Lucas and Spielberg, and how it shapes both volume one and the upcoming sequel The meaning behind the iconic twin suns cover Visiting Skywalker Ranch and Lucasfilm after the book’s release Balancing historical accuracy with storytelling Why Lucas Wars connected with readers beyond the core Star Wars fandom We also talk about the upcoming second volume, which covers The Empire Strikes Back and Raiders of the Lost Ark, and how expanding into Spielberg’s world adds a new layer to the story. As always, if you enjoy the podcast and would like to support what I do, you can find me on Patreon, and the show is also available on YouTube if you prefer to watch the interviews. BUY IT HERE This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 25

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I speak with art director and supervising art director Dominic Masters, whose decades-long career spans some of the biggest films and series of the last 40 years. He grew up around movie sets thanks to his father, the legendary production designer Tony Masters (2001: A Space Odyssey, Papillon, Dune), and started his own journey at 19 when he spent eight months in China on Tai-Pan — the first Western movie ever shot there. Dom talks about learning the foundational skills of drafting, the early struggles of finding work in the British film industry of the mid-80s, and the unique lifestyle of moving from production to production — that strange micro-community that forms on set, often in far-flung locations. We cover his experiences on Titanic working under James Cameron, the shift from physical sets to set extensions and digital workflows, the evolution of the art department, and how shows like House of the Dragon demand an enormous level of coordination, creativity and technical precision. We also talk about the British Film Designers Guild, the camaraderie that forms in the art department, and his personal creative outlets, photography and music, that keep him balanced between jobs. It’s a wide-ranging, honest conversation with someone who has seen the industry evolve from the studio backlots of the 1970s to enormous contemporary productions. Topics discussed Growing up around film sets and learning from legendary designers His first job on Tai-Pan in 1985 and the experience of shooting in China The hierarchy and craft of the art department Collaboration with directors, designers, construction and VFX Working on Titanic and the extraordinary scale of the build The Harry Potter films, James Bond films, and shifting directors The intensity and scale of House of the Dragon Surviving the freelance lifestyle and industry downturns Creative outlets outside the job Guest Dominic Masters – Art Director / Supervising Art Director Selected credits: House of the Dragon, Belfast, Wonder Woman, Now You See Me 2, Casino Royale, Harry Potter, Titanic, The World Is Not Enough, The Avengers. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 11

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast I speak with author and film historian Jay Glennie about his new book, The Making of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time ...In Hollywood. Jay has a real gift for pulling together people, memories and materials, and this book is packed with insight from the cast and crew, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie and Quentin himself.We get into how long Quentin carried the idea for the film, the script secrecy following The Hateful Eight leak, and the vital work of the ADs, casting team, DP, production designer and producers. Jay talks about the careful balancing act of handling contradictory memories, how he preserves the voices of the people he interviews, and how he approaches a project that is still fresh in everyone’s mind. We also look at what comes next in his ten book Tarantino series. Big thanks to Jay and to TITAN books. Buy Jay Glennie’s book - published by TITAN. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 5

In this bonus episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, host Jamie Benning, that's me... talks with author and filmmaker John Walsh about his new book The Art and Making of Gladiator II. Walsh discusses how he was approached by Abrams Books and Paramount Pictures to chronicle the creation of Ridley Scott’s Gladiator sequel, offering rare insights into the production design, visual effects, and creative collaboration behind one of the most ambitious films of the decade. The conversation explores how Walsh handled the challenge of documenting a still-in-production movie, his access to thousands of behind-the-scenes images, and the process of balancing art direction, photography, and storytelling in an official studio book. We also look ahead to Walsh’s next project — a deep dive into The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, and reflect on the enduring value of physical “making-of” books in today’s digital film culture. BUY THE BOOK HERE This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 28

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with sibling filmmakers Claire and Anthony Bueno, the creative team behind Cleanin’ Up the Town: Remembering Ghostbusters - a feature documentary more than a decade in the making, and the definitive oral history of one of the most beloved comedies of all time. The Buenos spent years interviewing dozens of cast and crew members from the original Ghostbusters, including Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, and the late Harold Ramis. The result is an extraordinary behind-the-scenes portrait that captures both the technical wizardry and the creative spirit that defined the 1984 classic. Claire’s new companion book, also titled Cleanin’ Up the Town, builds upon the documentary by presenting full-length interviews, previously unseen material, and new reflections from the filmmakers and craftspeople who brought Ghostbusters to life. In our conversation, Claire and Anthony share what it took to get the project made -the years of persistence, the challenges of rights and access, and the rewards of telling such a beloved story from a fan’s perspective. Whether you’re a lifelong Ghostbusters enthusiast or simply interested in independent documentary filmmaking, this is a fascinating glimpse into the dedication required to bring such a massive project to life. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 7

Episode 136: A Martha’s Vineyard special report on the Joe Alves Documentary shoot. This week’s episode is a little different. It is a behind the scenes update on our ongoing feature documentary about production designer and director Joe Alves (Jaws, Close Encounters, Escape from New York, Jaws 2, Jaws 3D). I take you through our trip to Martha’s Vineyard in June 2024 to capture Joe’s return to the island for the 50th anniversary of Jaws. Thanks to your generosity, we raised over £7,000 to cover the travel, ferry, car hire, and accommodation. Every penny went into the shoot. In this episode, I share: The challenges and triumphs of making the trip possible Shooting new interviews with Joe Alves, Marty Milner, Charles de Lauzirika, and Richard Dreyfuss Filming at iconic Jaws locations including Menemsha and the 4th July beach. The overwhelming warmth of the Jaws community and the atmosphere of the anniversary celebrations How the project has evolved from a short film idea into a full feature documentary Your support is still needed! We still have more to do, including chasing interviews with Dean Cundey, John Carpenter, Lea Thompson, and Steven Spielberg. If you would like to support the film, visit the GoFundMe link in the show notes. Thanks again for helping us push this project forward. We could not do it without you. Support the documentary GoFundMe This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 23

Cinema historian Nigel Smith joins Jamie to explore the hidden history of London’s picture houses. In particular the Egyptian-style Carlton in Islington. Nigel brings these spaces back to life through stories, archives, and first-hand recollections. In this episode, Nigel and Jamie discuss: How London’s old cinemas became coffee shops, bingo halls, and churches The difference between “going to the pictures” in the 1930s–50s and cinema-going today How local archives, trade papers, and oral histories help piece together forgotten stories Why repertory and community cinemas may hold the key to the future of film-going Nigel’s Memory Palaces project, documenting almost 100 cinema buildings with photos and stories Find more from Nigel: memorypalaces.co.uk and Instagram @nigelsmithwalks. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 9

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I talk with James Kahn, the novelist behind some of the most iconic movie novelizations of the 1980s, including Return of the Jedi, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, The Goonies, and Poltergeist. James shares how a chance encounter while working as an ER doctor in Santa Monica led him onto the set of ET: The Extra-Terrestrial, where he met Kathleen Kennedy and Steven Spielberg, an opportunity that set his writing career in motion. We discuss: How James went from emergency medicine to Hollywood writer His early break writing the Poltergeist novelization The creative freedom Spielberg gave him on Temple of Doom, The Goonies, and others Writing Return of the Jedi under intense secrecy — including how George Lucas gave him a decoy script where Luke kills the Emperor Inventing backstory details that became “canon” for decades, like Ben and Owen being brothers and hints about Anakin’s fall into the lava pits Giving Short Round his own chapter and exploring Mikey’s POV in The Goonies How his books helped fans relive these films long before home video Why a great novelization is about more than retelling a screenplay His recent memoir, A Jedi Memoir: A Double Life, weaving together stories from Hollywood and emergency medicine If you grew up with these books, this one’s packed with insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and moments of movie history you probably didn’t know. If you enjoy the show and want to help me keep making these conversations, please consider supporting the podcast on Patreon: All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 27

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with Tommy Williamson, a visual effects artist, prop maker, and lifelong creator whose career spans more than three decades. Tommy has worked on films including Spider-Man 2, Sin City, The Mist, Dune: Prophecy, and the modern masterpiece Pan’s Labyrinth. Tommy shares his journey from building paper-craft UFOs as a kid to working alongside Guillermo del Toro and becoming one of the artists helping to bridge the worlds of practical effects and cutting-edge digital VFX. We also dive into his passion for prop replicas and his work as the creator behind Nerds and Makers, where he builds incredible recreations of iconic movie props. If you love behind-the-scenes filmmaking stories, prop-making secrets, and hearing from the artists who bring movie magic to life, this episode is for you. In this episode, we discuss: Tommy’s early love of model making and practical effects His first big break on the 1988 remake of The Blob Adapting to the digital VFX revolution after Jurassic Park Working closely with Guillermo del Toro on Pan’s Labyrinth The creative process behind his Nerds and Makers prop replicas Why keeping one foot in both practical and digital worlds makes him a better artist The importance of experimentation, curiosity, and lifelong creativity “I’ve always had to make things. It’s absolutely in my DNA. Even now, I’ll work on a show all day and then spend my evenings printing a lightsaber or a blaster. I can’t not do it.” — Tommy Williamson You can follow Tommy and see his incredible prop builds on Instagram: @nerdsandmakers This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 12

Episode 132 - Dave Barclay - My Life With Animatronics. Movies, Puppets and Beyond! At just 19 years old, Dave Barclay found himself stepping into the role of chief puppeteer for Yoda in The Empire Strikes Back. It was the start of an extraordinary career in animatronics and puppetry that would see him bringing to life some of cinema’s most beloved and memorable characters. In this episode, Dave takes us back to his creative beginnings, growing up in a family of puppeteers, and the serendipitous chain of events that led from working in Hamleys toy shop to meeting Mark Hamill — and ultimately joining Stuart Freeborn’s Yoda team. We cover: His early inspirations from Planet of the Apes to making masks at home. The technical and creative challenges of performing Yoda alongside Frank Oz. Becoming chief puppeteer for Jabba the Hutt in Return of the Jedi. Working on The Dark Crystal, Little Shop of Horrors and Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The importance of collaboration between puppeteers, animators, special effects teams and actors. The process of writing his new autobiography My Life with Animatronics, Movies, Puppets and Beyond, filled with stories and photos from across his career. Dave’s journey is a mix of artistry, technical problem-solving, and being in the right place at the right time — but also about saying “yes” when opportunity knocks. Listen now to hear stories from a man whose work has shaped how we see and believe in some of cinema’s most iconic creatures. Find Dave’s book: My Life with Animatronics, Movies, Puppets and Beyond – available now at Cool Waters Productions. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 6

In this special bonus episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I take you behind the scenes of Propstore ’s upcoming Los Angeles auction, featuring some truly jaw-dropping pieces of movie history. I was invited to a press preview at London’s Dorchester Hotel, where I spoke with Propstore’s Tim Lawes (Director of Consignment) and Stephen Lane (CEO and Founder) about some of the headline items, including: A screen- and photo-matched Darth Vader hero lightsaber from The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi The iconic Jaws clapperboard with teeth, plus Bruce the shark’s eyes Jane Fonda’s Barbarella costume and blaster We discuss the thrill of uncovering long-lost props, the stories behind these legendary items, and what it means for collectors to own a piece of cinematic history. The auction runs September 4–6, 2025, streamed online from Los Angeles, with the full catalogue available at propstore.com . Next episode: My interview with puppeteer Dave Barclay, whose incredible career goes far beyond Jabba the Hutt. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 22

In episode 131 of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with director Phil Hawkins to talk about his journey from a kid obsessed with Jurassic Park and Star Wars to a filmmaker directing commercials, indie features, and ambitious projects like Star Wars: Origins and the Sky Original Robin in the Hoods. Phil shares how he taught himself filmmaking as a teenager, cutting together VHS tapes and roping in friends to create homemade sci-fi adventures. We discuss how this DIY approach evolved into making shorts and, later, a career in commercials – where he honed his craft in visual storytelling, working with big crews, and balancing creative ambition with tight schedules. We also talk about his fan-favourite short film Star Wars: Origins, which went viral for its bold concept and cinematic scale, and how it helped open doors to bigger opportunities, including his recent family feature Robin in the Hoods. Along the way, Phil reflects on the importance of collaboration, and the lessons learned from juggling creativity with industry realities. If you’re interested in how a director moves from self-taught beginnings to studio-backed projects while staying true to his passion, this is a conversation worth hearing. Listen now to hear: How VHS edits and fan films became Phil’s film school. The leap from shorts to commercials – and what commercials teach about storytelling. Making Star Wars: Origins and the risks and rewards of fan filmmaking. Crafting Robin in the Hoods and wrangling a cast of young actors for an adventure film. Phil’s thoughts on building a creative, respectful set environment. Star Wars Origins All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 8

Episode 130 – Laurent Bouzereau on “Jaws at 50” In this special episode, I catch up with the legendary documentary filmmaker Laurent Bouzereau to discuss his latest project, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, premiering Friday 11th July at 8pm on National Geographic and streaming the same day on Disney+ . Laurent, whose behind-the-scenes work on Jaws, Indiana Jones, and Spielberg has inspired me for years, reflects on the challenges of revisiting Jaws 30 years after his original 1995 documentary. We talk about the new angles he explored, from Spielberg’s emotional recollections and rare 8mm footage to fresh perspectives from filmmakers like Guillermo del Toro, Jim Cameron, and Jordan Peele. Recorded on the fly on Martha’s Vineyard during the Jaws 50th celebrations, this short but meaningful conversation touches on the legacy of Jaws, the humanity behind the production, and how Laurent’s approach has shifted over the years. Also in this episode: An update on my Joe Alves documentary and the incredible support from GoFundMe donors A mention of my new two-part article on ILM's animation legacy: ILM Evolutions: Animation from Rotoscoping to Rango – now live on ILM.com Linktree Support the podcast This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 25

Episode 129 – The Star Wars Influence: Live at the BFI’s Film on Film Festival In this special live episode, I join Doug Weir—Remastering Lead at the BFI—and post-production veteran Paul Collard on stage for a panel titled The Star Wars Influence, recorded at the BFI’s Film on Film Festival. Curated and hosted by Doug, the panel explores how George Lucas’s frustrations with the Hollywood studio system led to a wave of technological innovation that forever changed the filmmaking landscape. From the creation of ILM to the invention of motion control, EditDroid, SoundDroid, and digital cinema tools, we look at how Lucas empowered a generation of problem-solvers and helped pioneer the digital workflow we now take for granted. This conversation took place just before a rare screening of Star Wars from a 35mm Technicolor dye-transfer print—an experience I’ll be covering in more detail in a bonus episode coming soon. Topics include: Lucas’s break from the traditional studio system The founding of ILM and the Dykstraflex motion control rig VistaVision, optical printers, and visual effects R&D The origins of EditDroid and non-linear editing The value of Technicolor dye-transfer prints Lucasfilm’s wider influence on Pixar, Avid, and beyond Thanks again to Doug and Paul—and to the BFI for hosting such a thoughtful and inspiring event. Joe Alves Doco GoFundMe All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 10

In this special archival episode, I speak with actor and musician Anthony Forrest, best known to Star Wars fans for playing the sandtrooper who famously waved Obi-Wan and Luke past an Imperial checkpoint with the words: “These aren’t the droids we’re looking for.” Originally recorded over a decade ago, this conversation explores Forrest’s original casting as “Fixer” in the cut Tosche Station scenes, his time filming in Tunisia, and how George Lucas unexpectedly tapped him to suit up as a trooper. Anthony also reflects on working alongside Alec Guinness, the skepticism among the British crew, and the surreal experience of flying home with champagne and Star Wars stickers courtesy of Sir Alec himself. Beyond Star Wars, we also discuss Anthony’s career in music, his time busking in the London Underground, and his low-budget feature The Ballad of Bob’s Garage. Listen in for rarely heard stories from behind the mask. Mentioned in this episode: Deleted scenes from A New Hope Filming in Tunisia and London Busking and recording in the London Underground Alec Guinness and the 2007 Academy screening The Ballad of Bob’s Garage project GoFundMe for our Martha’s Vineyard shoot — any support is greatly appreciated! All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 4

In this bonus episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I catch up with returning guest Paul King, who you might remember from our previous conversation about his Shining locations documentary, Shine On. This time, Paul’s back with another nostalgic deep-dive — his new short documentary Beneath London: The Story of Alien War. We talk about the origins of the Alien-themed walkthrough experience that terrified visitors to London’s Trocadero in the early 1990s, how Paul tracked down rare archive footage and the people who made it happen, and why he thinks this story still has the potential to grow into a feature-length film. Watch Paul’s documentary on YouTube: Beneath London: The Story of Alien War In the episode, we cover: What Alien War was and how it came together The strange story of how the creators got official backing from 20th Century Fox How the experience pushed boundaries long before immersive cinema became a thing Paul’s process of turning archival material and interviews into a compelling short film I also share an update on my own documentary, Not Your Average Joe, about legendary Jaws production designer Joe Alves. I’m heading to Martha’s Vineyard this June to film key interviews during the 50th anniversary celebrations — a rare and important opportunity to capture these stories on location. If you’d like to support that project, you can find the GoFundMe here: https://gofund.me/13795716 Thanks for listening. More behind-the-scenes conversations coming soon. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 27

-------------------------------------------------- Our Joe Alves GoFundMe Campaign -------------------------------------------------- Episode 129 – Max Evry on A Masterpiece in Disarray: David Lynch’s Dune – An Oral History. In this episode, I speak with film journalist and author Max Evry about his brilliant and in-depth book A Masterpiece in Disarray: David Lynch’s Dune – An Oral History. What began as a 150-page entry in a cult film series soon grew into a 560-page epic — much like the film it covers. Max and I talk about the origins of the project, how he managed to get David Lynch himself to take part, and why the oral history format was the right approach for telling this complex story. We also chat about the book’s structure, Max’s archive work, and how his own experiences as a filmmaker gave him a deeper empathy for the challenges Lynch faced. There’s even a fascinating discussion about Max’s restoration of a long-lost scene featuring Molly Wryn — which you can now watch here : You can find Max’s book here. If you enjoy these behind-the-scenes deep dives, please consider supporting the podcast or sharing it with a film-loving friend - patreon.com/jamiebenning -------------------------------------------------- Our Joe Alves GoFundMe Campaign -------------------------------------------------- This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 8

Episode 126 - Inside the BFI National Archives - Film on Film Festival - Special Episode For this early release of the podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes at the BFI National Archive in Berkhamsted. The reason for the early drop? Tickets for the BFI’s excellent Film on Film Festival go on sale to the public tomorrow, 9th May 2025, and I wanted to give you a bit of insight into what makes this event so special. The Film on Film Festival runs from the 12th to the 15th of June and is dedicated entirely to screenings on physical film – from 35mm to 16mm, and even nitrate. It’s a rare opportunity to experience films as they were originally shown, in all their analogue glory. While at the archive, I spoke with several of the experts who help make the festival possible and who work daily to preserve the history of cinema. You’ll hear from: James Bell – Senior Curator of Fiction and Programme Director, Film on Film Festival Chris Stenner – Film Laboratory Lead Sonia Genaitay – Curatorial Archivist Martin Coffill – Projectionist and QC David Jones – Film Scanning Lead A huge thanks to Kieron Webb and Sarah Bemand for organising the day. It was a real privilege to explore the archive, meet the people who keep the machines running and the prints in circulation, and to share it all with you here. If you're attending the festival on the 12th, please do let me know and be sure to say "hi". BFI Film on Film All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 22

Episode 125 – Walter Murch: Suddenly Something Clicked (And 5 Years of Filmumentaries!) In this special 125th episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I’m joined once again by the legendary Walter Murch — editor, sound designer, director, author, and true philosopher of cinema. This also happens to mark five years since I launched the podcast, so it felt only fitting to celebrate with someone whose insights have shaped not only cinema itself but how we understand it. Walter and I discuss his new book, Suddenly Something Clicked, which is due for release on 8th May 2025 via Faber & Faber (thank you to them for kindly sending me a preview copy). The book is a rich mix of theory, practice, and history — true to Walter’s description of it as a “twisted rope” of ideas. We cover everything from the evolution of editing, cinema as a biological and neurological phenomenon, the mysteries of sound design, and even the mechanics of live television editing. Walter reflects on the analog vs digital shift, why sound should be metaphorical as well as realistic, and how editing mirrors the way our own bodies process time and perception. We also get into Return to Oz, AI in filmmaking, and his thoughts on films like Adolescence and 1917 that attempt to eliminate the cut entirely. As ever, it’s a joy to speak with Walter — and I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did recording it. All my links Suddenly Something Clicked Original 1977 Star Wars Screening This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 22

Hi all, Here's Rachel's second and final report from Star Wars Celebration Japan. We hope you enjoy it! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 19

As promised, here's report of the goings on in Tokyo at Star Wars Celebration, day one and two from Rachel Pearson. More tomorrow. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 19

In my previous episode I spoke with ADR specialist and dialoge editor Vickie Sampson. In that conversation she mentioned briefly about the time the Return of the Jedi audio recordings were stolen from her car. "That's a story for a whole other podcast", she remarked. So I contacted Vickie to ask her if she could record the story. She kindly obliged, and so here it is as a short Bonus episode for you folks! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 8

Episode 124 Like many visual effects artists of a certain vintage, Jeff Okun didn’t plan on a career in VFX. In fact, by his own account, he didn't even plan to work in film at all. "I’m a completely accidental human being," he told me with a chuckle. His ambitions began on a very different stage — as a stand-up comic — until a sharply atheistic routine delivered at home earned him a lifetime ban from performing in front of his parents. Instead, Okun’s creative outlet took the form of magic tricks, homemade stunts, and Super 8 visual gags. “I would blow up model ships and fake fights in rush hour traffic,” he said, “and I’d be in the bushes filming with ketchup for blood.” All of this childhood chicanery ultimately gave way to a fascination with the trickery of movies — the kind of illusions you could only pull off with careful camera work, sleight-of-hand editing, and an appetite for mischief. Learning the Craft the Hard Way Okun's first job in film was with the legendary graphic designer and filmmaker Saul Bass. The experience was, in Okun's words, “awful,” but also profoundly formative. As Bass’s gopher-turned-editor, Okun was thrown into the deep end. “I hated him,” he laughed. “But he taught me everything: editing, sound, post-production supervision, how to shoot, how to frame. It was a masterclass.” Working for Bass meant operating in a visually precise, effects-heavy style — layering camera moves, creating in-camera effects, and often relying on labor-intensive optical printing processes. When optical houses turned down Bass’s business — too exacting, too expensive — Okun stepped in with cost-saving workarounds and pricing schemes that actually worked. “We doubled the budget, added a contingency, and somehow still landed exactly on target.” “By the end of it, I ended up loving the man,” Okun said. “Not because he gave me a break, but because he was so specific and difficult to please that when you did please him, it meant something. He learned how to prep lineup sheets, how to composite with interpositives, and how to break down 140-layer optical shots into manageable components. “I was just the fix-it guy. I didn't know what I was doing half the time. I still don't.” VFX by Way of Accident It wasn’t long before optical houses and producers began calling on Okun when their films were in trouble. One fix led to another. His reputation grew as someone who could step into a crisis and calmly solve it — usually with a combination of ingenuity, humour, and brute-force trial and error. “I think Saul trained me to see puzzles. That’s what it comes down to — seeing what’s broken and putting it together in a way that works. Most of the time, it wasn’t about having the right answer. It was about trying 50 wrong ones.” This kind of lateral thinking came into its own on films like Stargate (1994), where Okun — working with Jeff Kleiser and Diana Walczak’s fledgling CG company — had to convince director Roland Emmerich that computer graphics were even worth attempting. “Roland didn’t believe in CG. So we built the shot, made the CG glider deliberately less detailed to match the miniature footage. Showed it to him. He said, ‘Exactly — that’s what I’m talking about. Miniatures are the way to go.’ And we said, ‘Nope. All CG.’ That’s when he finally came around.” (Fun fact, VFX supervisor Jeff Okun was paid homage by Brent Spiner in Independence Day in the role of Dr. Brackish Okun. There’s uh, a slight resemblance.) - Credit to Nofilmschool.com Penguins, Moose, and the Invisible Effect Okun is quick to point out he wasn’t a Star Wars kid. In fact, he avoided the original film for weeks on principle — he doesn’t do queues. But he did get a behind-the-scenes tour of ILM’s original Van Nuys facility courtesy of Bass and George Lucas. There, he saw motion control rigs, Richard Edlund on his knees filming the crawl, Phil Tippett animating the chess game, and pyro tests in the parking lot. It was, he admits, a little magical — though it didn’t change the fact that his creative allegiance remained with illusion, not spectacle. “My favourite effects are the invisible ones. I started out as a magician. The goal is to make people believe there’s no trick. That’s where the real artistry is.” Still, that didn’t stop him from sneaking penguins and moose into the background of multiple films. He once gave a horse antlers in a Cameron Crowe movie. In Blood Diamond , he added a huge penguin family to a wide evacuation shot — no one noticed. “It’s like the gorilla basketball video. You just don’t see what you’re not looking for.” The Shark That Ate Sam Perhaps his most famous — or infamous — contribution to pop culture came on Deep Blue Sea . Samuel L. Jackson had just delivered a particularly rough eight-page monologue, and Okun, unimpressed with the script, asked Jackson what he wanted to do. “He just said, ‘Kill me.’ So I said, ‘If you make it to the front of the moon pool, I’ll kill you.’” The surprise shark attack that interrupts Jackson mid-speech is now legendary. It wasn’t in the script. “Renny Harlin didn’t know until the day,” Okun said. “Sam did take after take but always got to the kill spot early. We cut the rest. I shot the elements. It was a massacre. We even had baby sharks pull him apart for fun.” The Changing Landscape Much of our conversation revolved around the changing realities of visual effects — the rise of AI, the complications of LED walls, and the shifting expectations from directors and studios. “People think VFX is just hitting the ‘do it right’ button and then the ‘do it fast’ button,” he said. “There’s so little appreciation for how hard this stuff is, and we’ve done ourselves no favours by making it all invisible.” He sees today’s VFX artists as increasingly anonymous — a shift he’s spent much of his career trying to reverse, both through his own visibility and via his tenure at the Visual Effects Society. “We don’t sell our artistry. We sell our software. You know the names of the DPs, but no one can name last year’s VFX Oscar winners. That’s not sustainable.” The Invisible War Stories At the end of our chat, Okun expressed a desire to tell more of the “true” stories of VFX — the screw-ups, the late-night fixes, the shots that weren’t supposed to work. He wants more people to know that the chaos behind the curtain is often where the real creative breakthroughs happen. “It’s always fun. That’s the only reason I still do it. And when it’s collaborative, when it’s people bouncing ideas off each other, it’s magical. That’s when everyone forgets the pain and just remembers the movie.” All the Filmumentaries Links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 25

Episode 123: Vickie Sampson – Dialogue, Detail, and the Art of Sound In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I speak with sound editor, dialogue and ADR supervisor, and filmmaker Vickie Sampson. Vickie’s career began in the early 1970s, and she’s since built up a mighty list of credits including Romancing the Stone, The River, Tank Girl, The Fifth Element, Ordinary People, and Return of the Jedi. She’s also the daughter of the trailblazing Kay Rose – the first woman to win an Oscar for sound editing. We discuss: Growing up surrounded by film and sound Her hands-on experiences on shows like The Big Valley and The Rifleman The vital but often misunderstood role of dialogue and ADR editing What makes a great production sound handover (and how so many indies get it wrong!) ‘Temp love’ and the challenges of directors getting attached to scratch tracks Working with actors like Keanu Reeves, Meryl Streep and Sigourney Weaver Her time in London supervising ADR for Return of the Jedi – including a story about the reels being stolen from her car Why clean dialogue is the bedrock of a good film Her continued work as a director and teacher This one’s packed with stories, insights, and practical advice for anyone working in – or just obsessed with – film sound. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: Skywalking Through Neverland Podcast – Episode 72 – More on Vickie’s Jedi reels story Simon Hayes' article on the sound of Wicked “A Letter from Your Sound Department” (available upon request or via Vickie’s site) Support the podcast: Grab some merch: filmumentaries.creator-spring.com Or support on Patreon for just $1 a month: patreon.com/jamiebenning Follow me on social media: @filmumentaries on Threads, Instagram and Facebook Filmumentaries Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 11

In this conversation, I speak with Howard Berry about his film project 'Her Name Was Moviola', which explores the art of film editing through the lens of a a traditional editing setup. Howard shares the origins of the project, his connections with notable filmmakers like Walter Murch and Mike Leigh, who are both involved in the projet. And the challenges he faced in acquiring the necessary equipment for the film. The chat highlights the technical aspects of film editing and the collaborative nature of filmmaking. We look at the intricacies of documentary filmmaking, particularly focusing on the editing process and the relationship between directors and editors. Howard shares insights into his experience editing a film about editing, the challenges faced during production, and the importance of preserving cinematic stories. We also touch on the film's reception at various festivals and the future distribution plans. The project began as an oral history of Elstree Studios. Howard's connections in the film industry were crucial to the project's development. Walter Murch's involvement was pivotal in shaping the film's direction. The film aims to document the process of editing, not just the final product. Acquiring vintage equipment like the movieola was a significant challenge. Howard's persistence in networking led to valuable collaborations. Mike Leigh's willingness to share footage was a turning point for the project. The technical aspects of editing are often overlooked but are essential to the craft. The film serves as a tribute to the art of film editing. Howard's journey reflects the importance of community and support in filmmaking. Howard emphasizes the importance of preserving historical stories in film. The documentary was always intended to focus on the technical and psychological aspects of editing. Walter Murch's preference for a nuts-and-bolts approach shaped the film's direction. The relationship between a director and editor can be tense yet collaborative. Critiques from directors can enhance the editing process and lead to better outcomes. Editing a film about editing presents unique challenges and pressures. Trust between filmmakers is crucial for a successful project. The film has received positive feedback from audiences and critics alike. Festival screenings have provided valuable exposure and audience engagement. Future distribution plans aim to reach a wider audience through streaming services. Filmumentaries Linktree Her Name Was Moviola The Elstree Project This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 25

In this conversation, Jim shares his journey into the film industry, detailing how a little film called Star Wars inspired him to pursue a career in filmmaking. He discusses his early experiences in the industry, the evolution of trailer editing, and the critical role of marketing in film success. Jim reflects on his time at Castle Rock Entertainment, the challenges of marketing films like The Shawshank Redemption, and the importance of intuition in making marketing decisions. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of film marketing, exploring the challenges faced in promoting films like 'Shawshank Redemption' and the impact of initial reception on a film's legacy. We discuss the evolution of film reception over time, about iconic directors like Stanley Kubrick and franchises like Harry Potter. Highlighting the importance of creativity in marketing and the unique experiences that come with working on significant film projects. Jim's book - Opening Weekend is available here! Shawshank Redemption Trailer All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 11

In this conversation, Maryan discusses her journey into the film industry, detailing her entry point after film school, her experiences at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field. She shares insights into the creative environment at ILM, the collaborative spirit among teams, and the innovative techniques used in films like Return of the Jedi. Maryan reflects on her post-ILM career, the changing dynamics in the industry, and the importance of perseverance and creativity in filmmaking. In this conversation, Maryan reflects on her experiences in the film industry, particularly focusing on the creative processes behind visual effects, the impact of influential figures like George Lucas, and the transition from effects work to live action and music videos. We discuss the challenges of working in different effects houses, the importance of collaboration, and the evolution of technology in filmmaking. The conversation also touches on personal career transitions, the balance between work and family life, and the shift towards education in the arts. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 28

In this conversation, Gus Lopez shares his journey as a Star Wars collector, discussing the profound impact of Star Wars on film and culture, the evolution of collecting through the internet, and the importance of storytelling in the collecting community. He also delves into the ambitious plans for the Saga Museum, a collaborative effort among prominent collectors to create a public space for showcasing their collections and sharing their stories with fans. In this conversation, Gus Lopez discusses the ambitious plans for a physical Star Wars museum, focusing on fundraising, educational components, community engagement, and the importance of support from Lucasfilm. He shares insights into the collecting journey, the responsibility of preserving cultural artifacts, and the vision for a location that attracts both fans and tourists. The conversation concludes with ways fans can get involved in the project. Takeaways Gus Lopez was a Star Wars kid who began collecting early. The influence of Star Wars on film and culture is significant. Collecting became serious for Gus in the early 90s. Networking among collectors was crucial in the early days. The Star Wars Collectors Archive was a pioneering website. Collecting is seen as a social hobby by Gus. Every collectible has a unique story behind it. The Saga Museum project has been in the works for three and a half years. Collaboration among collectors enhances the museum experience. Legacy is important; sharing collections with the public is fulfilling. The museum aims to shareunique memorabilia with a wider audience. Fundraising is a primary focus, with a goal of $2 million. Educational components will span history, art, and science. Community support is crucial for the museum's success. Lucasfilm's endorsement is vital for credibility and support. Collecting requires a range of skills and experience. The museum will preserve cultural artifacts for public enjoyment. Choosing the right location is essential for attracting visitors. Fans can contribute through donations and merchandise purchases. The museum will create a space for both kids and adults to learn. The Saga Museum Tour of Gus's Collection All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 7

In this conversation, Jamie interviews director Paul King about his documentary 'Shine On', which explores the making of 'The Shining' and its filming locations at Elstree Studios. They discuss their personal experiences with the film, the meticulousness of Kubrick's work, and the emotional connections that fans have with the movie. Paul shares insights into the production process of his documentary, the challenges faced during filming and editing, and the support received from the Kubrick estate. The conversation highlights the nostalgia and significance of revisiting iconic films and locations. All my links Shine On Documentary That Kubrick Season trailer from Film4 This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 19, 2024

In this episode of the Filmumentary's podcast, host Jamie Benning speaks with Sierra Dahl, the long-term partner of the late Colin Cantwell, a visionary concept artist known for his work on iconic spacecraft in films like Star Wars and 2001: A Space Odyssey. The conversation explores Colin's creative journey, his collaborations with legends like Stanley Kubrick and George Lucas, and Sierra's efforts to preserve his legacy through a revamped website and potential documentary. The discussion highlights Colin's unique approach to design, his contributions to NASA, and the impact of his work on popular culture. Colin Cantwell was a key figure in the creation of iconic spacecraft designs for Star Wars. Sierra Dahl shares her personal journey with Colin and his legacy. Colin's work with NASA included contributions to the moon landing broadcast. He was the first graduate of the animation major at UCLA. Colin's designs were influenced by his passion for quantum physics. He created the concept art for Star Wars before being officially hired. Colin's approach to design involved viewing ships as individual characters. His work on War Games showcased his programming skills and creativity. Sierra is dedicated to preserving Colin's legacy through a new website. The CSJ Foundation aims to inspire youth through STEAM education using Colin's work. Remember, if you visit colincantwell.com you can use code "FILM15" at checkout to get 15% off any of the items in the store. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 3, 2024

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with cinema historian and walking tour guide, Nigel Smith. Nigel is the creator of Memory Palaces , a website project dedicated to exploring and preserving the stories of London’s cinemas—both those still standing and those long forgotten. Join me and Nigel as we discuss: Nigel’s early love of cinema, sparked by watching Superman II as a child. The evolution of his passion from movies to the buildings that housed them. The rich history of London’s cinema culture, including iconic locations like the West End’s movie palaces and quirky cinemas like the Prince Charles. Fascinating discoveries from Nigel’s research, such as a Camden cinema run by a medium who let spirits dictate the programming. The enduring importance of community in cinema-going, from bustling matinees of the past to modern film clubs like Tufnell Park Film Club. Nigel also shares anecdotes from his popular walking tours, where participants bring their own memories to add to the tapestry of London’s cinematic past. Whether it’s the glamour of West End premieres or the humble beginnings of Victorian-era musicals, Nigel’s storytelling brings the history of cinema to life in a truly unique way.For more on Nigel’s work and how to join one of his walking tours, visit Memory Palaces . Links and Recommendations: Learn about Nigel’s walking tours: Memory Palaces Visit the Cinema Museum in London: cinemamuseum.org.uk Explore the Kent Museum of the Moving Image: kentmomi.org Listen in for a fascinating conversation about the intersections of cinema, architecture, and community. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 19, 2024

Welcome to Episode 115 of The Filmumentaries Podcast. This time I’m talking to John Bell, a concept artist and art director whose career has spanned some of the most memorable films of the last four decades. From Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home to Jurassic Park and Back to the Future II and III, John’s work has left a significant mark on cinema. In our conversation, John takes us back to the early days of his career, when he transitioned from designing cars at General Motors to creating video game concepts at Atari, before finally finding his way into the film industry. He shares the story of how a speculative portfolio sent to ILM eventually opened the door to a career that included working alongside legends like Nilo Rodis-Jamero and Ken Ralston. We talk in depth about his work on Back to the Future II, where he imagined a future Hill Valley steeped in a mix of Americana and 1980s aesthetics, and Jurassic Park, where he brought bold, colorful designs to vehicles, props, and even the park’s iconic branding. John also reflects on how collaboration is at the heart of filmmaking, with directors like Steven Spielberg and production designers like Rick Carter encouraging his input while shaping the look and feel of these projects. We also cover his time working on Antz at DreamWorks, where he stepped into the role of production designer for the first time, and Rango, ILM’s first animated feature. Throughout, John shares his approach to balancing creativity and problem-solving, and the importance of pulling inspiration from both his surroundings and his past experiences. It’s a wide-ranging discussion that touches on everything from the challenges of designing for science fiction, fantasy, and animation to how the industry has changed over the years. I hope you enjoy it. All the links John Bell Studio This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 5, 2024

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I’m bringing you some updates on my work with ILM and sitting down with director Laurent Bouzereau to chat about his new documentary, Music by John Williams. We dive into the emotional punch of Williams’ music, the process behind crafting the documentary, and Williams’ lasting legacy as a composer. Laurent opens up about his experience working closely with Williams and the art of storytelling in documentaries, as well as the challenge of sifting through such a massive collection of iconic work. ‘Music by John Williams’ is available on Disney+ and in cinemas for limited release. UK Screenings of the film Slimer Article at ILM.com All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 29, 2024

Episode 113 is up. My conversation with production eesigner, art director, concept designer and VFX artist Kevin Jenkins . We swap stories about our childhood movie experiences and the films that got under our skin—like Jaws, Star Wars, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. We talk about how these films not only shaped Kevin's tastes but ignited a passion for storytelling and artistry that's stuck with him. Kevin and I get into the risks filmmakers took back then. We touch on the balance between practical effects and digital tech, and why having a passionate, collaborative team is crucial to making something memorable. There's a bit on the commercialization of genres and how fandom sometimes gets too caught up in nostalgia, missing out on new, original stories. We also cover how filmmaking has evolved with technology, especially for artists like Kevin, who transitioned from traditional illustration to digital tools. Kevin shares insights on how tech influences collaboration and creativity on set. He walks me through the role of a concept artist, the problem-solving and idea generation that goes into projects like World War Z and Edge of Tomorrow—highlighting the creative process behind creature designs and visual effects. Kevin opens up about the challenge of finding the right design and the nuances of working within big franchises. He talks about the essential collaboration between art and costume departments to build a cohesive visual world. Finally, Kevin shares his ambition to work on a historical epic. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 7, 2024

In this episode, I sat down with Jon Spira to dive deep into the making of his latest documentary, The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee. If you’re a regular listener, you know Jon’s been on the podcast a couple of times before, and it’s always a treat to hear him talk about his work. This time around, he takes us through the journey of bringing Christopher Lee’s story to life—literally.Jon kicked things off by sharing what drew him to this project in the first place. Inspired by a mix of fascination and intrigue, he became captivated by Lee's enigmatic presence, especially after rewatching a rather unusual "This Is Your Life episode" featuring Lee. Jon’s documentary doesn't just skim over Lee’s storied career, from Hammer Horror to The Lord of the Rings, but it digs into the emotional layers of a man who, despite his towering on-screen persona, was often plagued by self-doubt and a desire to control how the world perceived him. We spent a good amount of time talking about the challenges Jon faced in portraying someone as multifaceted as Christopher Lee. It’s no small feat to condense a career that spanned over six decades into a single film. Jon wanted to avoid the usual biographical pitfalls—just ticking off achievements and movie titles—and instead aimed for something more intimate and emotionally resonant. He wanted viewers to come away with a sense of who Christopher Lee really was, beyond just the roles he played. One of the more fascinating parts of our conversation was Jon’s decision to use a marionette puppet to represent Lee. It was an unconventional choice, but as Jon explained, it made perfect sense for a subject who was so concerned with how his story was told. He originally toyed with the idea of CGI but felt that it lacked the emotional warmth he was looking for. So, he collaborated with Andy Gent, known for his work with Wes Anderson and Tim Burton, to create a beautifully crafted puppet of Lee. And who better to provide the voice than Peter Serafinowicz, whose deep, rich tones helped bring that puppet to life. Jon’s approach allowed Lee to narrate his own story, with other voices occasionally chiming in to add a touch of warmth and gentle contradiction. It’s this kind of creative storytelling that sets Jon’s work apart—finding new ways to tell familiar stories.Jon and I also delved into some of the broader challenges facing filmmakers today. The industry is in a strange place right now, with budgets tightening, streamers changing their strategies, and the rise of new technologies like AI reshaping the landscape. We had a lively discussion about the role of AI in filmmaking. For one specific sequence in the film—recounting a moment when Christopher Lee witnessed the last public execution by guillotine in France—Jon’s team used AI-assisted animation to breathe life into archival photos. It’s a decision that has sparked some controversy, especially from certain corners of the American press, but Jon sees it as just another tool in the creative toolkit. He acknowledges the fears around AI and the impact it might have on jobs, but he also believes that, when used thoughtfully, it can elevate storytelling in new and exciting ways.Throughout our conversation, a recurring theme was empathy—something that Jon clearly values in his approach to documentary storytelling. He talked about how he always aims to create a sense of connection between the audience and his subjects, to show their humanity in all its complexity. For Jon, it’s not just about documenting facts; it’s about exploring how those facts feel, and how they shape the person behind the public image. In The Life and Deaths of Christopher Lee, this approach results in a film that isn’t just a tribute to a cinematic legend but also a portrait of a man grappling with his own insecurities, just like the rest of us. We also touched on the state of cinema today—how trends are shifting, the uncertain future of theatrical releases, and what that means for filmmakers who, like Jon, are passionate about telling unique, challenging stories. It’s clear that Jon sees the current moment as both a challenge and an opportunity—a chance to push boundaries and keep audiences engaged in new ways, even if it means embracing some unconventional methods along the way.All in all, our chat was a rich, multi-layered conversation, touching on everything from the intricacies of puppetry to the big questions about where the film industry is headed. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the art of documentary filmmaking, the evolving landscape of cinema, and the enduring allure of a complex, larger-than-life figure like Christopher Lee. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 24, 2024

In this conversation, TyRuben shares his journey into the world of visual effects and concept design, detailing the profound impact of films like '2001: A Space Odyssey' on his aspirations. He discusses the importance of self-permission in pursuing one's dreams, the skills he developed over the years, and his experiences at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). He emphasizes the significance of collaboration, the fast-paced nature of concept design, and the evolution of CGI in filmmaking. He reflects on his work with industry legends like George Lucas and James Cameron, the transformative experience of working on 'Avatar', and his eventual transition into education and engagement with artificial intelligence. Key moments: Seeing '2001: A Space Odyssey' sparked my interest in visual effects. Self-permission is crucial for success in any field. Building a diverse skill set is essential for a career in VFX. Collaboration is key in the creative process. The fast-paced environment at ILM taught me to adapt quickly. Pitching ideas is a vital part of the creative process. Working with George Lucas was a dream come true. The experience on 'Avatar' solidified my role in the industry. Teaching is a natural progression in my career. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 10, 2024

Today’s conversation is one I’ve had in the bag for a couple of months now . I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Andrew Whitehurst. Andrew’s journey into the visual effects industry is one that really resonates with me, especially when he talks about his childhood fascination with movie magic and a certain BBC documentary. Yes, THAT one! Like many of us, it all started with a spark of curiosity. He pursued that passion at art college and gained experience in various roles, which eventually led him to become a visual effects artist. His early work on projects like Tomb Raider 2 and Troy paved the way for his role as VFX supervisor on Ex Machina, ultimately winning him an academy award. In our conversation, I got to dive deep into Andrew’s experience working on films like Ex Machina and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. We talked about the challenges of creating realistic CGI characters and the meticulous attention to detail that’s required for modern audiences. Andrew shares that belief in the value of using traditional tools like pencil and paper in the design process, and on the importance of looking beyond the screen to other forms of art for inspiration. Through our discussion, Andrew provided some great insights into the decision-making process for visual effects and how to strike that delicate balance between realism and audience expectations. Key points: A love for movies and a fascination with visual effects can lead to a career in the industry. Art college and self-learning are valuable for developing skills in animation and 3D software. Opportunities may arise in unexpected ways, such as working as a runner or doing graphic design for DVD menus. Being open to new roles and challenges can lead to career progression and working with renowned directors. Enjoying the process and having a good working relationship with colleagues are key to success in the industry. Ex Machina was a highly ambitious film with a tight shooting schedule and minimal pre-visualization and concept work. The design process for Ava focused on creating visual effects that could be executed like a regular piece of drama. The decision to use CG for Ava's head was made during the editing process, allowing for more creative control and a stronger visual impact. The design of Ava was influenced by a variety of sources, including racing car suspension, modernist sculpture, and human anatomy. The use of pencil and paper in the design process is a valuable tool for exploring ideas and understanding visual concepts. Taking the time to manually create something allows for thinking and feeling, which can lead to better results and creative collaboration. Observing the world and engaging with different forms of art can enhance creativity and provide inspiration for visual effects. Recreating a young version of a character like Indiana Jones requires a combination of techniques, including face swapping and machine learning. The use of high-resolution scans and archival material can help ensure accuracy and detail in visual effects. Closure on a project is important for maintaining mental health and allows for focusing on new challenges. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 3, 2024

This is a short bonus episode in which I interview author Kelly Knox about her co-authoring of "Return of the Jedi - A Visual Archive". Kelly Knox discusses her love for the Star Wars movies, particularly the original trilogy, and her experience co-writing the visual archive book for Return of the Jedi. The book focuses on the behind-the-scenes details and connections that branched out from the film. Kelly shares her favorite discoveries while researching for the book and the challenge of balancing the desire for detail with limited space. She also hints at future projects and her excitement for attending Star Wars Celebration in Japan. keywordsStar Wars, movies, original trilogy, Return of the Jedi, visual archive, behind-the-scenes, connections, research, book, interviews, panels, Japan takeaways Kelly Knox fell in love with the Star Wars movies at a young age and has been a fan her whole life. The visual archive book for Return of the Jedi focuses on behind-the-scenes details and connections to other Star Wars projects. Kelly enjoyed discovering new facts and information while researching for the book. She has plans for future Star Wars books and is looking forward to attending Star Wars Celebration in Japan. A video version will also be available on youtube. Enjoy! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 27, 2024

In this episode, Jamie Benning interviews Doug Weir and Kieron Webb from the British Film Institute (BFI) about the restoration and screening of the 1933 classic film King Kong - 8th and 16th Sept 2024. They discuss the historical significance of the film, its pioneering visual effects, and its impact on cinema. They also talk about the process of restoring and preserving old film prints, including the challenges and techniques involved. The conversation highlights the importance of film restoration and the BFI's efforts to preserve and showcase classic films. The conversation explores the process of preserving and restoring classic films, with a focus on the upcoming screening of King Kong at the BFI Southbank. They highlight the collaboration with labs like Photochem and YCM Labs, which have a long-standing history in preservation and restoration work. The conversation also touches on the challenges of finding printing elements for preservation and the significance of preserving the original cinematic experience. BFI King Kong tickets. Glossary of film related terms. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 20, 2024

Jett Green shares insights into her upbringing and her journey into the world of matte painting , highlighting her work on Labyrinth , Howard the Duck, Temple of Doom, and The NeverEnding Story. She also discusses the collaborative and supportive culture at ILM, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in achieving remarkable results. Jett reflects on her transition from traditional painting to digital matte painting, as well as her current work as a fine artist in Maui. Links All the filmumentaries links https://www.caroleenjettgreen.com/ https://viewpointsgallerymaui.com/ Nigel Smith Cinema walks in London This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 6, 2024

"Star Wars came and changed my life." Steve Sansweet, former bureau chief of the Wall Street Journal, shares his passion for movies and collecting, particularly Star Wars memorabilia. He recalls his childhood love for movies and science fiction, and how he started collecting science fiction toys and robots. He discusses the impact of Star Wars on his life and the collecting community, and his role in writing the book 'From Concept to Screen to Collectible'. Sansweet also talks about his time at Lucasfilm and his extensive collection of Star Wars memorabilia. Steve Sansweet discusses his favorite Star Wars collectibles, his role at Lucasfilm, and the growth of Star Wars fandom. He talks about his involvement in creating the Star Wars Encyclopedia and his time working on the special editions. Sansweet shares his experiences at Star Wars celebrations and the importance of fan engagement. He also reveals his favorite piece from the Phantom Menace era and discusses the challenges of collecting Star Wars merchandise. Sansweet reflects on his time at Lucasfilm and the future of Rancho Obi-Wan. Links : Donate Button All the links Rancho Obi Wan have a big fundraiser taking place in Seattle Oct 5th This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 9, 2024

Last episode you heard part one of my conversation with Nilo Rodis Jamero, design legend and wonderful person. For this episode, number 106, the first of July 2024 you’ll be hearing part two of our chat… On entering the gaming industry Nilo's focus was always about inspiring and guiding production teams to craft original and iconic characters and worlds. He’s real advocate for originality and imagination in design, rather than leaning on copying existing designs or using AI to assist those designs. In our conversation, Nilo shares his experiences working with the legendary John Hughes, emphasizing the value of building relationships and understanding a director’s vision. We also delve into the crucial role of production design in film and the unspoken code of acceptance when a director gives their nod of approval to a set.Nilo believes that good design should shake the viewer to their core, creating a unique experience. This means a lot of iterating and refining, but through this rigorous process, truly groundbreaking concepts can emerge. Collaboration is another cornerstone of Nilo’s philosophy. He believes that the creative process thrives on the participation of diverse talents, each contributing their unique expertise to the project. This collaborative spirit is what drives innovation.Now you’ll know if you listened to my chat with Nilo in 2021 and last episode that he’s met a lot of key figures in the industry, in this chat he talks about n meeting influential figures like Hayao Miyazaki and Tezuka Osamu. These encounters have not only inspired him but also provided valuable insights into his design and storytelling work. But it’s not all work for Nilo—his passions outside of work, like Formula One racing, bring joy and fresh perspectives into his life. There’s a great bit at the end of this chat when I tell Nilo I work in F1, and he becomes the fan for a moment.So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the creative mind of Nilo Rodis-Jamero. This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a whole lot of passion for the art of design. Donate Button All the links Peter Kuran's "The Thing" Kickstarter This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 24, 2024

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, host Jamie Benning interviews Nilo Rodis-Jamero, a designer and production designer known for his work on films like The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Johnny Mnemonic. They discuss Nilo's experiences working with George Lucas, Phil Tippett, and Joe Johnston, as well as his collaborations with other renowned designers like Eiko Ishioka and Hayao Miyazaki. Nilo shares insights into his design process and the importance of simplicity and iconicity in his work. The conversation also touches on Nilo's involvement in the design of the character Buz Lightyear in Toy Story and his experiences as a production designer on Johnny Mnemonic. In this part of the conversation, Nilo discusses the challenges of working on movies with hard deadlines and limited budgets. He shares his experiences working with George Lucas and John Hughes, and how their approaches to filmmaking differed from the Hollywood norm. Nilo also compares working on Johnny Mnemonic and Explorers, both of which faced production difficulties. He highlights the importance of creative freedom and the impact of budget constraints on the filmmaking process. Nilo also shares insights into the differences between the film and video game industries, particularly in terms of discipline and the lack of a hard deadline in game development. This is only part 1 of a long conversation. Part 2 is coming up soon! Takeaways Nilo Rodis Jamero has had a diverse and influential career as a designer and production designer in the film industry. He has worked on iconic films like The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Johnny Mnemonic. Nilo has rubbed shoulders with renowned designers and filmmakers, including George Lucas, Phil Tippett, Joe Johnston, Eiko Ishioka, and Hayao Miyazaki. His design process focuses on simplicity and creating designs that are easily recognizable and memorable. Nilo's work on the character Lunar Larry (who became Buzz Lightyear) in Toy Story showcases his ability to bring a character to life through design. His experiences as a production designer on Johnny Mnemonic highlight the challenges and dynamics of the filmmaking process. Movies are often made with hard deadlines and limited budgets, which can pose challenges for filmmakers. Working with directors like George Lucas and John Hughes, who prioritize creative freedom, can provide a different filmmaking experience. Films like Johnny Mnemonic and Explorers faced production difficulties, which affected their final outcomes. The film and video game industries have different approaches to discipline and deadlines, with games often lacking a hard deadline. Budget constraints can impact the creative process and the ability to achieve the desired vision for a film. Sound Bites "I like design that are very simple to digest and then reward the viewer with more details as they zoom in." "I work in an increment of a month. So, if, you know, can we agree on my terms?" "The essence of that character is right there. Facially, like his expressions, his costume, his stance, like it's all there." "Movies are literally backed into a hard date, which is the release date." "The way Hollywood movies are made, it's the opposite of that." "I learned how to do movies the way George makes movies." Donate Button All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 22, 2024

Hi, this is a bonus episode. Sometimes I get invited to interview a particular behind the scenes artist and I've decided I should say yes to them and get them out as bonus episodes. So in this bonus episode, I spoke with stunt coordinator, Krista Perry. Krista is a, native Californian, who grew up travelling the country at the age of eight for competitive swimming. Finishing out her career as an All American Swimmer in the state of California. She is now a stunt performer and stunt coordinator, most recently working on Killers of the Flower moon and the series Reservation Dogs. So here's my conversation with Krista. I hope you enjoy it. Takeaways The stunt industry is male-dominated, but Krista found her way into it through her background as an athlete. Discipline and teamwork are crucial in both athletics and stunts. Body awareness is important in stunts, and technology allows performers to analyze their form and make improvements. Working with actors who lack physical awareness can be challenging, but having a double provides a backup plan. Script breakdown and casting for stunts involve finding the right people with the necessary skills and background. The adaptation to VFX in stunts has allowed for more creative possibilities. Trust and relationships are key in the stunt industry, and working with familiar team members fosters a sense of shorthand and communication. Working on both big and small productions offers different experiences and opportunities for learning. There is a potential for Oscars for stunts to recognize the hard work and contributions of stunt performers. Donate Button All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 14, 2024

Episoe 104 - This time I chat with Ahsoka producer and ILM VFX Supervisor, Richard Bluff along with his colleague Matthew Wood, Supervising Sound Editor. Key takeaways: The collaboration between sound and visual effects departments is crucial in creating a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience. Early involvement of sound in the production process helps inform the visuals and enhances the storytelling. The use of practical effects, such as miniatures, can provide a unique and grounded look to the visuals. Designing and creating sound for ships in the Star Wars universe involves a balance between familiar elements and new, unique sounds. The organic and mysterious nature of the Eye of Sion and the witches' voices in Ahsoka adds depth and intrigue to the storytelling. The balance between using technology and practical effects is a constant consideration in visual effects production. The use of LED screens allowed for interactive lighting and realistic reflections in the visual effects of 'The Mandalorian' and 'The Book of Boba Fett'. Collaboration between the visual effects and sound departments was crucial in creating the desired effects and atmosphere for the shows. The Howlers were created using a combination of motion bases, horses, and visual effects to achieve a realistic and dynamic performance. The creative team is constantly looking for new techniques and technologies to improve the visual effects and sound design of the series. Ahsoka is available to watch on Disney+. Enjoy! Donate Button All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 28, 2024

My guest for this second episode of May 2024 is production designer Nathan Crowley. If you don’t know his name, you will definitely know and most likely love, his work.. Behind Enemy Lines (2001) Insomnia (2002) Batman Begins (2005) The Prestige (2006) The Dark Knight (2008) John Carter (2012) The Dark Knight Rises (2012) Interstellar (2014) Dunkirk (2017) The Greatest Showman (2017) First Man (2018) Tenet (2020) Wonka (2023) Nathan is an incredibly talented artist that is able to create amazing worlds on screen. He’s also a great guy and very easy to talk with. We had a great conversation just a week or so ago. It’s avery fluid chat, but we do cover a few of the milestones in his career. Starting with Spielberg’s Hook and finishing up on Wonka and Wicked. With much chat about Chris Nolan’s films in between. Enjoy! Donate Button All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 17, 2024

For this episode, number 102, I am speaking to to gentleman that worked on the visual effects for Masters of the air, the Apple TV series which is a continuation of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. This time tackling World War Two airmen and their various missions. So I chat with Xavier Bernasoni who was one of the vfx supervisors on the show for DNEG and also two Steve jelly of Dimension studio who is responsible for a lot of the virtual production stuff, the big volume that you'll know from shows like The Mandalorian. Well it's now of course being used in many different ways in many different productions and not necessarily the ways that you would imagine... I hope you enjoy the conversation. Donate Button All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 26, 2024

In April 2024, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to California, starting with a visit to Skywalker Ranch, Lucasfilm and Rancho Obi Wan. And unfogettable three days. While at Skywalker Ranch I met with Sound Supervisor, Mac Smith and legendary Model Maker, Lorne Peterson. This episode is a report from those three days. Full written report with photos Donate Button All the links Skywalker Ranch Archives Fly-through from the blu ray boxset Archives Tour with Don Bies from the laserdisc boxset This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 9, 2024

For this the 100th episode it seems fitting that it’s someone who’s name I’ve known since I was 4, 5 and 6 when my imagination was first sparked, looking through my Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi comics and magazines. That name is of course Phil Tippett , one of those incredible artists whose work transcends the films he’s worked on. His work is always full of a singularly tactile, grunginess that I love. Whether it’s the chess pieces in Star Wars, the Tauntauns or Walkers on Empire, the Rancor in Jedi, the Dinosaurs in Jurassic Park or the bugs in Starship Troopers, Phil’s work is always imbued with such great design and character. I’ve been an admirer of his work as I said, for decades now. And I was given the opportunity to speak with him in February of this year, 2024. I knew immediately I should save that conversation for my first milestone of 100 episodes. Thanks to everyone for their support since I've been making this podcast. It means the world to me. Donate Button All the links Michael Hewitt Brown Marathon Donation Page This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 25, 2024

For episode 99 I interviewed friend, David Whiteley. If you don't know David, you should! He's a news presenter, but also a huge Star Wars Fan. And, has made two fantastic documentaries about the subject. Firstly "The Galaxy that Britain Built" and secondly "Toy Empire". Both are a must-watch for fans like us. David also produced a book which gathers together the interviews his conducted for "The Galaxy that Britain Built". It's available on Amazon here . Check it out! And then BUY IT! Talking of books, don't forget that Justin Berger and I have now pre-released our Return of the Jedi - Unauthorized Timeline book as an ebook on Amazon. Donate Button All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 12, 2024

For episode 98, I am joined by my guest from episode 2, Giles Terera, actor, writer, musician and great friend of mine. He suggested to me a few months back that we should do a commentary on The Empire Strikes Back. So last month that's just what we did. I went up to central London to his flat, armed with two mics and we sat at watched and waffled over our favourite film. I hope you enjoy the episode. If you want to watch along, hit play on the movie just as the intro music (after my spoken introduction) ends. Or just listen to the episode for some chat and fun insights. I reckon we'll do a Return of the Jedi commentary at some point. Particularly because Giles has worked with several of the British actors in that movie. Enjoy! Donate Button All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 26, 2024

In episode 97 of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview helicopter stunt pilot Fred North. Fred shares his journey from a childhood fascination with helicopters to becoming a successful stunt pilot in Hollywood. He emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for oneself and having a shark-like drive to keep moving forward. Fred also discusses the art of flying a helicopter and the importance of connecting with the machine. He shares insights on working with directors and understanding their vision to offer creative solutions. Takeaways Creating opportunities and having a drive to succeed are key to achieving success. Connecting with the machine and understanding its nuances is crucial in flying a helicopter. Understanding the director's vision and offering creative solutions can make a helicopter pilot invaluable in the film industry. Embracing mistakes and learning from them is essential for personal and professional growth. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Patreon Support 03:35 First Encounter with Helicopter 06:27 From Childhood Fascination to Becoming a Stunt Pilot 08:20 Shark-Like Drive and Embracing New Opportunities 10:42 Dealing with Mistakes and Learning from Them 12:30 The Importance of Having an Open Mind and Connecting with People 14:24 Writing the Book to Share His Journey 25:08 The Role of Instinct and Connection in Flying 28:21 Finding a Way into the Film Industry 35:25 Understanding the Director's Vision and Offering Creative Solutions 41:06 QR Codes in the Book and Making it Entertaining 42:18 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 17, 2024

I hope you enjoyed my archival interview episodes in December 2023, one with Producer Robert Watts, the other with actor Garrick Hagon. Well now we are back to some recent interviews, I can tell you I’ve been busy lining these up ready for 2024! So… for the first, its a pretty big one, well it’s a very big one - Thanks to the lovely folks at ILM, I was given the chance to interview director Gareth Edwards and his FX crew on The Creator. I’d be trying to get Gareth on via a mutual friend of ours but given Gareth is currently doing press about the nominations the film has received, so it was perfect timing. So you’ll hear my conversion with Gareth along with VFX supervisors Jay Cooper, Ian Comley, Charmain Chan, Andrew Roberts and Jay Cooper as well as SFX supervisor Neil Corbould. There is an exclusive video version of the podcast on the filmumentaries youtube channel so that you can see all of us talking while I paint the interviews with some of the VFX breakdown clips ILM kindly provided. So if you can, head over to youtube to check that out. So, we talk about: Gareth’s unique shooting techniques that enable large scope on a relatively low budget. And also the now famous use of the pro-sumer camera. How the collaboration between the on-set crew and VFX teams is crucial for achieving seamless integration of practical and digital elements. How anchoring VFX work to practical elements in the frame enhances the realism and believability of the visual effects. How real-world locations can provide inspiration and add authenticity to the film's design and visual effects. How the future of filmmaking with VFX lies in finding innovative ways to combine practical and digital techniques and finding the best tools to make the pipeline more efficient. We finish by talking about award recognition and what it means to them. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 23, 2024

Ok, this is another one from the archives, but as with the Robert Watts recording, I’ve been wanting to put this one out in podcast form for a while too. This is a conversation I had with actor Garrick Hagon back in 2015. If that name doesn’t ring a bell, how about Biggs Darklighter. Yes, Garrick is well known for his mostly deleted scenes from Star Wars in which he plays Luke’s best pal. I’d met Garrick in the green room at a Star Wars Trilogy day at the BFI southbank earlier that year. I’d been invited there by my old mate Toby Phlipott, Jabba puppeteer and all round good guy. Garrick and I got chatting about how I’d done an interview with Toby and created what turned out to be a very popular video from it. So I suggested we do the same. In fact both of those videos are still on my vimeo channel. So I’ll also link to that in the show notes. As with all interviews, when making a video you often cut out certain bits that you don’t need. But with a podcast you can make it more long form. So that’s what I’ve done here. The interview was done over the phone, so it won’t sound as good as some of my more recent episodes. But it’s still definitely very listenable. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 16, 2024

This is one from the archives, but I’ve been wanting to put this out in podcast for for some time now. Its my interview with the legendary producer Robert Watts from back in July 2018. My cameraman buddy Paddy and I visited Robert at his home, and a lovely home it was too. He was on such great form and just a delight to be with. We arrived armed with some F1 signed caps from Hamilton and Vettel because a little birdy had told us he was a motorsport fan. And he was absolutely delighted. That little birdy was actually David Whitely, who is going to be a guest on this very podcast in the coming weeks. It wasn’t of course ever intended to be a podcast, so you’ll hear my questions slightly off mic, but of course this is all about Robert and his work on 2001, Thunderball, Star Wars, Raiders, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi etc, so I'm sure you can forgive some audio irregularities. As the recording starts, Robert and I are talking about Stuart Freeborn and his creation of Yoda. You’ll also hear friend of the podcast Paddy Tyndall ask the occasional question. I hope you enjoy it. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 29, 2023

Uncover the secrets of Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1's breathtaking visual effects. VFX supervisors Jeffrey Sutherland and Simone Coco share insights on collaboration, challenges, and the art of crafting cinematic magic. Step behind the scenes and explore the dynamic world where reality meets creativity. I was recently given the opportunity, by the folks at ILM, to talk to two VFX supervisors that worked on Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1. Namely Jeff Sutherland and Simone Coco. So as you might imagine I jumped at the chance and within 24 hours we were chatting. In this conversation we discuss their work on Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1 and the unique challenges they face. They talk about the impact of practical elements on their VFX work, the importance of creating scale and believability, and the balance between realism and creativity. We also discuss the collaboration with stunt teams, the adaptation to new camera technology, and the always evolving role of VFX in filmmaking. They share their experiences in finding creative solutions and maintaining freshness and objectivity. Just so that you know who is who, Jeffrey is the first to speak after me, and Simone is the one with the Italian accent. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 18, 2023

Now, for this exciting episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tom Spina. Tom is an avid Star Wars enthusiast, restoration specialist, and the founder of Tom Spina Designs and Regal Robot. In our conversation, we delve into his early love for Star Wars and those toys, his passion for computer graphics on his Amiga, his brief stint as a TD in live TV, and his current work in restoring historical movie props. We also touch on his Star Wars Celebration panel, his interactions with the film saga's crew, props, and monsters. It's a fascinating insight into his creative process, and I hope you enjoy our conversation. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 25, 2023

For this episode, the second of November 2023, I spoke with director, producer and editor Jeremy Coon. Jeremy was the producer on the 2007 film Napoleon Dynamite. But I spoke to him in his editor director capacity about the new documentary “A Disturbance in the Force’, which I was lucky enough to see at the UK premiere in London last week. The documentary chronicles the story behind the bizarre and legendary Star Wars Holiday Special. The 1978 TV special full of growling wookies, odd dance numbers and a “revisit” of sorts to the cantina, run be Bea Arthur usual and awkward appearances from the main cast of Star Wars. This is a shorter than usual episode, but I wanted to get it out to you before the documentary is released on 5th December So here is my conversation with Jeremy Coon, director and editor of Disturbance in the Force. I hope you enjoy it. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 18, 2023

In this episode (number 90!!), I share an enlightening conversation with the creators of the "RoboDoc" series - a comprehensive documentary on the iconic sci-fi film, RoboCop. The team includes directors Chris Griffith and Eastwood Allen, and producer Gary Smart. The trio talks in-depth about how they transformed their passion project into a widely acclaimed series over several years. They reveal that their journey was far from smooth, battling legal issues, budget constraints, and meeting stringent fair-use criteria, among other challenges. Their tenacity to produce a series that deeply analyses every scene of the cult classic is ultimately what led to the final output. The documentary features over 100 interviews with cast, writers, producers, special effects designers and countless crew members of the Robocop universe to provide fans with an incredibly detailed and insightful look into this much-loved franchise. The creators finally discuss distribution, the importance of physical media, and their hopes for future projects. In the meantime “stay out of trouble”... ROBODOC: The Creation of RoboCop. A 4-part limited series detailing the making of the seminal sci-fi movie, RoboCop (1987)STREAMING NOW: 🇬🇧 Prime Video via The Icon Film Channel 🇺🇸 Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and other VOD via Screambox. 💿 BLU-RAY 🇬🇧 SPECIAL EDITION (REGION B) 🇺🇸 COLLECTOR’S EDITION (REGION A) All the Filmumentaries links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 30, 2023

If you listened to episode 87 you’ll have heard my conversation with the British Film Institutes Douglas Weir. He’s Technical and Remastering lead there and does great work with his team to restore and release films from British classics to lost gems. He invited me back to talk to him and his colleague Vic Pratt - film historian and Video Publishing Producer. So I got together with them both at BFI Southbank last week to talk about some of their new projects. One of their blu ray releases out this month is Short Sharp Shocks a wonderful collection of short films which… well I won’t say any more just now, you’ll hear everything about it in out conversation. Just grab a glass of brandy, get a blanket and pull your chair closer to the fireplace. Enjoy. All the links! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 25, 2023

For this episode, number 88, I spoke with Mac Smith about the path he took to his career as Supervising Sound Editor and employee of Skywalker Sound, via marching bands, a chance meeting with Walter Murch, being propelled into the industry working for Robert Zemekis on Castaway. And so much more. Listen in for the full story. Thanks to the folks at Skywalker Sound for helping set this up. All the links! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 9, 2023

For this episode, number 87 I spoke to The British Film Institute’s Remastering and Technical lead Douglas Weir. Doug had recently introduced a screening of Jaws at the BFI back in June of this year. It wasn’t just any old print of Jaws, it was a near pristine dye transfer print that a colleague of Doug’s found in the archive. After the screening which was amazing, I contacted Doug to see if he’d come on the podcast to talk about that print and about his career at BFI. It turns out he is already a listener of the podcast and was very keen to chat. So Doug invited me up to the southbank based BFI and along with his colleague, I got a back stage tour, checking out all the old projectors and film reels (I’ve posted some photos on the filmumentaries Instagram page). Doug and I then sat down for an hour for a chat, covering a multitude of topics including Jaws, the limits of restoration from both a techinical POV as well as what should be restored Vs what can be achieved. I hope you enjoy it. All the links! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 28, 2023

For this episode, number 86, I spoke with VFX Supervisor Charmaine Chan. We chatted back in mid June 2023 on a boiling hot day here in London. We talked about Charmaine's entry into the industry via running a website about a particular girl group that you might have heard of. She then went onto to be a researcher and compositor at ILM, and most recently a VFX supervisor on Gareth Edwards' visually dazzling, “The Creator” - out on 29th September 2023. I'm very much looking forward to seeing it. Listen in for the rest of the conversation. Links Videos on Vimeo Return of the Jedi Timeline Book Etsy Shop - Buy your Jabba print here Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 15, 2023

For this episode, number 85, the firstone of September 2023, I have VFX supervisor of choice for both Spielberg and Scorcese, namely Pablo Helman. Pablo and I spoke back in June 2023 about his career path and his work for Stephen and Marty. There will be a video version available for those of you that contribute via patreon on the second tier. Pablo left his home of Argentina in the early 1990s to work in the VFX industry in California. He initially worked on films like Apollo 13 and Strange Days before joining ILM in 1996. He went on to work on Jurassic Park 2, Contact, Saving Private Ryan, The Phantom Menace and more recently The Irishman, Mank and The Fablemans. A fascinating guy. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Etsy Shop - Buy your Jabba print here Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 26, 2023

This time I have the pleasure of sharing my conversations with Skywalker Sound’s Co-Supervising Sound Editor Matthew Wood, Sound Designer David W Collins and Re-recording Mixer Danielle Dupre. I spoke with Matthew and David together and then separately with Danielle. Matthew and David are Emmy nominated for Mandalorian Chapter 24, Matthew his also nominated for his work on Obi Wan Kenobi Part VI (6) Danielle has also been nominated for her work on Obi Wan Kenobo part 6. So first of all you'll hear my conversation with Matthew Wood and David W Collins then after the ads you’ll hear my conversation with Danielle. I hope you enjoy it. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book Etsy Shop - Buy your Jabba print here Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 18, 2023

For this, the second special Emmy nominees episode I got to speak with friend of the podcast and former guest VFX Animation Supervisor Hal Hickel (check out episode 68 for that conversation) along with Grady Cofer, Production Visual Effects Supervisor. We chat about their work on the show, the balance of innovation and tradition, the use of certain tools of their trade and the collaborative nature of VFX work. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Etsy Shop - Buy your Jabba print here Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 15, 2023

Welcome to this special episode of the Filmumentaries Podcast. Episode 82 in fact. Today is a small diversion from the usual. Rather than film history, I have three guests who are very much part of the film now, or TV now. These three gentlemen are at the forefront of VFX on Disney+’s Emmy award nominated show, Andor. Genuinely one of my favourite shows for a long time. So for this month, August 2023, there will be three episodes, all conversations with ILM VFX and Skywalker sound artists and technicians in celebration of their Emmy nominations. Now if you are a regular listener to this podcast you’ll know that I hosted a panel at Star Wars celebration here in London back in May - I mention it to literally anyone that’ll listen. HAHA. On that panel were VFX experts Mohen Leo, TJ Falls and Scott Pritchard as well as special effects supervisor Richard Van Den Bergh. Now due to a complication backstage the panel was not recorded save for a few snippets that the ILM team shot. So I dedicated a whole episode to Richard Van Den Bergh about his career in special effects. That was episode 80 . And while not an episode specifically about Andor, we did talk about the show a little. (do check it out) Then very recently ILM got in touch and asked if I’d like to interview the three VFX guys on the podcast. They along with Richard have been nominated in the category of Outstanding Special Visual Effects In A Season Or A Movie. I immediately said yes and within 24 hours I was chatting with these wonderful artists again. So here’s my conversation with Mohen Leo - Production VFX Supervisor, TJ Falls, VFX Producer and Scott Pritchard, ILM VFX supervisor… Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Etsy Shop - Buy your Jabba print here Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 27, 2023

For this episode, the second of July 2023, I spoke with Puppet Film Director and Creature Effects Artist Kevin McTurk. Kevin and I first connected on Facebook a couple of years ago, maybe it was more than that. We’ve been trying to find a suitable time to have him on the podcast since then. Well now is the time as Kevin has a project on Kickstarter as we speak. Kevin directs these amazing short films using puppetry and wonderfully atmospheric effects. He’s a veteran of creature effects in movies like Batman Returns, Jurassic Park, Galaxy Quest and King Kong. However, he is, as I said also a director of these amazing short films. He started with The Narrative of Victor Karloch a victorian ghost story. Then there was The Mill at Caulder’s End in a similar vein. The one that I first spotted was his third film “The Haunted Swordsman”. It’s quite extraordinary. You’ll hear us talk about it in the interview. Kevin’s latest project which is currently on Kickstarter is “Grylu Sker” an Icelandic folklore story. As of 25 July it has 18 days to go and is 75% funded. Do check it out. During the interview Kevin’s connection went a few times. So when I was editing the podcast I got back in touch with Kevin to help me fill in the gaps. So you’ll hear me a couple of times, just clarifying what Kevin was saying. It shouldn’t be too distracting. So here’s my interview with Puppet Film Director and Creature Effects Artist Kevin McTurk. I hope you enjoy it. Grylu Sker - Kickstarter The Spirit Cabinet Other links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 10, 2023

For this episode, the first of July 2023, I spoke with Special Effects Supervisor Richard Van Den Bergh. I met Richard when he was one of the panellists on the Andor SFX/VFX panel at Star Wars Celebration in May this year. Richard is clearly an expert of his craft, whether it’s model making, making atmospherics or supervising. He’s had some much experience from starting in the industry on Ridley Scott's Legend, to his most recent work on Andor for which he was nominated for a Bafta. I hope you enjoy our conversations. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 28, 2023

My conversation today is with long time Lucasfilm film employee Miki Herman. She was engaged at Lucasfilm during the production of Star Wars and stayed long enough to work on the Ewok and Droids cartoons. She worked on the original Star Wars trilogy as production assistant, production coordinator and unit production manager, respectively. She was later a consultant for The Star Wars Holiday Special and became co-executive producer of the Star Wars Droids and Ewoks animated series. Now, I always feel like I make a connection with my interviewees and Miki is no exception. She was smiling and occasionally laughing. But something seemed a little off. I’m not sure if my connection was delayed to her or something else was going on. But sometimes Miki's answers were quite short. So, todays conversation as I mentioned, is a little shorter than usual. But still worth your time. Big thanks for Miki for her time. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Linktree This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 5, 2023

For this episode, number 78, I spoke to composer Stu Phillips. Stu was born in 1929, is an American composer of film scores and television series theme music , He’s also a conductor and record producer. Though he is probably best known for composing the theme tunes to the television series Battlestar Galactica and Knight Rider . After a career spanning decades, in 2002, he published his autobiography Stu Who?: Forty Years of Navigating the Minefields of the Music Business. It's well worth checking out. Stu and I had tried to arrange a chat for months. I was unwell at one point, then I had some internet problems, then his phone line went down. But we finally managed to do it in May this year (2023). I have to say it was a genuine pleasure chatting to Stu. And as you’ll hear, he is as sharp as a tack at 93 years old. At one point in the conversation Stu and I talk about how artists borrow from each other all the time. Hang around at the end of this episode to hear what I found out after a deep dive into one particular track of Stu’s. As with my conversation with Peter Kuran (episode 75), I was having internet problems at the time, so there are a couple of drop outs. Some I’ve managed to edit around, others I haven’t so if you hear any little jumps in the conversation, that’s why. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch Support the Podcast on Patreon Stu's Book This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 25, 2023

Ok so for this episode, number 77 (cool number) I have a guest host in the shape of my co-author on the new Return of the Jedi Unauthorized timeline book, Justin Berger. So the conversation you’re about to hear is our interview with Jedi’s co-producer Jim Bloom about his time working on the film. We are so happy to say that he also wrote a wonderful introduction for the book. So today, 25th May, was supposed to be the release day of the book. Unfortunately Amazon let us down and we’ve had to delay until June 1st (jeditimeline.com) Basically our proof copies which should have arrived in a matter of a couple of days, didn’t arrive until too late. We didn’t want to put the book up for sale without having handled it ourselves to make sure everything is in order. Better to get this done properly than quickly. And in fact a couple of things have come to light since we decided to delay which are going to make this a better book anyway. There will be three versions of the book. The contents are the same in each but we have three versions to suit all pockets. The first is the colour hardback. The second is the colour softcover and thirdly there's a version with a colour softcover with black and white pages. That’s the cheapest of the bunch. If you can afford it, why not buy yourself a hardback cover one to keep and treasure and a softcover one to flick through at your leisure? So here’s our conversation with Jim Bloom. Justin’s internet died a couple of times so he doesn’t say a huge amount, but what he does say is great. Thanks to both of these gents for their time. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon The Man Who Shot Luke Skywalker This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 12, 2023

This is a BONUS episode for May 2023. This is my conversation with editor Michael Harte about his new film "Still: A Michael J Fox Movie" , which is out today in cinemas and on Apple TV. Listen out for some exclusive clips of the film during our conversation. I hope you enjoy it. https://twitter.com/AppleTV #AppleOriginals #STILL This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 11, 2023

For this episode, number 75, I spoke with filmmaker and optical VFX expert Peter Kuran. Peter was one of the few people employed by George Lucas on Star Wars and became a core crew member at Industrial Light and Magic. He went on to have a long career in VFX and then became a director in his own right. I should point out that we had internet problems so some of the recording is garbled or lost. I’ve edited around it in places and left it in in other places so you know that there was a piece missing. Apologies. We never found out if it was my connection or Peter’s. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon The Man Who Shot Luke Skywalker This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 26, 2023

For this episode of the podcast, number 74, I spoke with VFX artist, expert, VFX twitter ambassador and all round good guy Todd Vaziri. Todd began his career right out of college and worked on shows like Charmed and Xena Warrior Princess for Flat Earth productions before moving to among others, Banned from the Ranch before landing at ILM for Attack of the Clones. Since then he’s worked on just about every ILM tentpole movie. So here is my conversation with ILM VFX artist Todd Vaziri. I hope you enjoy it. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon The Man Who Shot Luke Skywalker This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 13, 2023

Episode 73 If you remember, I interviewed House of the Dragon writer and showrunner, Ryan Condal back in September 2022, episode 59 I think. Well he and I have become friends and we chat quite a bit on Whatsapp. He suggested I speak to his Special Effects Supervisor on Dragon, Michael Dawson. “He’s been in the industry since Superman in the late 70’s. He’s a great guy and would be perfect for your podcast”. So, a couple of weeks ago I did indeed have a great chat with Mike. He not only worked on Superman, but also on the three original Indiana Jones films, Return of the Jedi, Return to Oz, Alien 3, Patriot Games, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and so many more! We didn’t get the chance to talk about all of them but we did have a great conversation about his job and his 45 plus years working in special effects. So here’s my chat with Special Effect Supervisor Michael Dawson. Links Return of the Jedi Timeline Book - Register your interest! Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 27, 2023

Welcome to this DVD extra type episode. Here is my conversation with Van Ling, the guest on episode 71, talking about his time at the fabled Banned From The Ranch Entertainment. I hope you enjoy this little extra bonus episode. This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 27, 2023

So for this episode I spoke with Van Ling. A name you may recognise. Perhaps for his work on laserdisc, DVD and blu ray, perhaps for his collaborations with James Cameron on The Abyss and Terminator 2 (you’ll love the story of how he got started with Cameron), or maybe for his time working on VFX at Banned From The Ranch Entertainment on films like Dante’s Peak or The Relic. Either way you’ll find his eclectic career fascinating. I spoke with Van just before our trip to LA. We were hoping to meet up for lunch while we were out there but the schedule was too tight. Maybe next time Van. So here is my interview with Van Ling, disc creator, VFX supervisor, director… Links Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 21, 2023

For this episode, number 70, I finally spoke with director Patrick Read Johnson. He recently released his many years in the making, labour of love 5-25-77. A film that semi fictionalises and chronicles the early life of a character, named Patrick Read Johnson and his love of movies like 2001 A Space Oddysey, Star Wars and Close Encounters. I saw an early cut of this about ten years ago with several scenes missing. Patrick and I connected over the release of my Star Wars Begins (still available to view for free on Vimeo by the way). 5-25-77 is currently available on blu ray and on several streaming platforms. So here’s my chat with the director of 5-25-77, Patrick Reid Johnson and I’ll be back at the end for a bit more jabbering on. Links Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 28, 2023

For this episode, number 69 I spoke with ILM and Sony Picture Imageworks legend Ken Ralston . Ken started on VFX in advertising, then in 1976 he was employed to work on a little film called Star Wars. He remained at ILM for 20 years having worked on Star Wars, Star Trek, Dragon Slayer, Back to the Future , I mean the list is huge. He then went on to work as Visual Effect Supervisor and Creative Head at Sony Pictures Imageworks. He’s won five academy awards during his career. If you know who Ken is, you’ll love this conversation. If you don’t know who Ken is, firstly WHY? But secondly, you’ll definitely know his work. He of course recently featured in the Disney+ Lawrence Kasdan documentary series Light and Magic. But as ever I am keen to dig a little deeper. I hope you enjoy our conversation. Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 9, 2023

For this episode, number 68 I spoke with an animator at ILM, namely Hal Hickel. Now, if you’re on twitter you’ll know that Hal is a prolific tweeter. I’ve had a number of conversations with him online. Recently in one conversation it transpired that Hal had done some of the work on the 2004 version of Star Wars (A new hope), particularly on the redone Jabba scene. A redo of the 1997 special edition release. My friend Drew of Star Wars Visual Comparisons. So I decided to approach Hal to come on the podcast and talk about that scene as well as many of the films he’s worked on over the years. Looking at my notes here for the keywords I’ll add to the podcast, we talk about Toy Story, Jurassic Park, Rogue One, The Life Aquatic and many more in between. Filmumentaries Merch! Support the Podcast on Patreon This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 27, 2023

For this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with the ultra talented and lovely human being… Jean Bolte, that’s BoltE, rhymes with Nick Nolte as she told me. Jean has worked in the film industry for many years. She started in wigs and beard, then moved to ILM in time for Willow for which she was a model maker. The thumbnail for the episode shows Jean working on the ostrich for the famous morphing scene. She then went to work on Hook, Jumanji, Men in Black, The Phantom Menace and so many more huge movies as a digital texture artist. She’s recently handed in her notice to ILM but is going to be staying very much in the creative world. Jean was just so great to talk to, we hit it off immediately. Chatting with her was surprisingly relaxing and also very inspiring. So here’s my conversation with texture artist and supervisor Jean Bolte... Nick Notle and I’ll be back at the end for a bit more jabbering on. My Filmumentary Videos on Vimeo The Filmumentaries Podcast Merch Podcast Patreon This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 6, 2023

For episode 66, I have an Oscar winning director. But I don’t talk to him about his films at all. Instead I talk to him about a book he’s written. Lee Unkrich is probably best known by film fans as the director of Toy Story 3 and Coco. He of course won an Oscar for both of those movies. What you might not know is that he is a lifelong fan of Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. For many years he has run a website “the overlook hotel”, which he fills with everything and anything he can about his favourite film. After ten years or so in the making, he is just about to release his book, published by Taschen and limited to 1000 copies (in the collector edition at least). It’s called Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. I spoke to Lee just after Christmas 2022. So here’s our conversation. I hope you enjoy it. Taschen's new "Stanley Kubrick's The Shining" This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 30, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the journey of Rose Degnan, a key figure in the visual effects industry, particularly her experiences at ILM during the production of Star Wars. The conversation covers her entry into filmmaking, the evolution of visual effects, the work culture at ILM, and the balance between personal life and a demanding career. Rose shares insights on the importance of appreciation in the workplace and the transition from practical effects to digital technology. She also shares her experiences in the film industry, discussing the balance between quality and efficiency in filmmaking, the importance of mentorship, particularly for women in a male-dominated field, and her reflections on working with George Lucas. She highlights the complexities of visual effects in Star Wars, the evolution of budgeting and production practices, and the need for greater diversity in the industry. Thanks for joining me in 2022 and I hope you can do so again for the next year of episodes of The Filmumentaries podcast in 2023! Happy New Year. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 9, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I engage in a deep conversation with VFX artist Steve Williams and director Scott Lieberich about the groundbreaking work behind Jurassic Park and the documentary 'Jurassic Punk.' We explore the challenges faced in the visual effects industry, the personal struggles of artists, and the evolution of storytelling in modern cinema. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing individual contributions in collaborative environments and the impact of technological advancements on filmmaking. So here’s my conversation with Steve Williams (VFX artist) and Scott Leberecht (the director of the new documentary Jurassic Punk). - https://www.jurassicpunkmovie.com/ All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 24, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview VFX legend Dennis Murin, who shares his childhood inspirations, early experiments in filmmaking, and insights into the evolution of visual effects. The discussion highlights the challenges of entering the film industry, the impact of technology on filmmaking, and the creative approaches that define the art of cinema. Dennis reflects on the integration of live action and effects, the importance of understanding audience perspective, and the need for seamless effects that enhance storytelling. Here's the link to our "Not Your Average Joe" Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jamiebenning/not-your-average-joe-0 All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 16, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the upcoming Kickstarter for a documentary on production designer Joe Alves, who has an extensive career in Hollywood. The conversation transitions to insights from producer Jim Bloom, who shares his experiences in film production, including the challenges of moving Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) to Northern California, the intricacies of long-distance production, and the evolution of visual effects. Bloom also recounts his cameo as Luke Skywalker in The Empire Strikes Back and the challenges faced during the production of Return of the Jedi. Check out the following link if you're interested in supporting the Joe Alves documentary project on Kickstarter - https://www.backerkit.com/call_to_action/1d3f98a4-6576-46f0-9585-6c9fc45ab7e5/landing All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 1, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Jim Bloom, an ex-ILM and Lucasfilm producer. We discuss Jim's early career in film, his experiences working on iconic films like American Graffiti and The Conversation, and his collaboration with renowned directors such as George Lucas and Francis Coppola. Jim shares insights into the filmmaking process, the challenges of working in the industry, and the importance of personal connections in building a career in film. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 26, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the evolution of film history with author John Walsh, focusing on his latest book about the Doctor Who films starring Peter Cushing. We explore the significance of these films in the context of the Doctor Who franchise, the challenges of adapting television to film, and the changing perceptions of these works over time. The conversation also touches on the resurgence of physical media in an age dominated by streaming services and the excitement of uncovering lost artifacts in film history. vimeo.com/filmumentaries https://uk.bookshop.org/books/escape-from-new-york-the-official-story-of-the-film/9781789096217 https://titanbooks.com/70944-dr-who-the-daleks-the-official-story-of-the-films/ All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 30, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Ryan Condal, the writer and showrunner of HBO's House of the Dragon. We discuss Ryan's journey from being a fan of film to becoming a successful screenwriter and showrunner, the impact of iconic films like Star Wars on his career, and the hard work and resilience required in the film industry. Ryan shares insights into the role of a showrunner, the complexities of shooting a series, and the importance of storytelling in filmmaking. He delves into the challenges of non-sequential filming, the use of volume technology, and the importance of practical locations. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 29, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with filmmaker Alexandre Poncet about his journey in documentary filmmaking, particularly focusing on the behind-the-scenes stories of iconic figures in the film industry. We discuss the challenges and insights of producing documentaries, the importance of narrative structure, and the art of editing. Poncet shares his experiences working on documentaries about Ray Harryhausen and Phil Tippett, emphasizing the personal connections and creative processes involved in filmmaking. The Phil Tippett book - here. The documentaries - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 31, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with writer and executive producer David Mandel, known for his work on iconic comedies like Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Veep. The conversation explores Mandel's early influences, his transition from television to film, the differences in production between the two mediums, and the importance of ensemble casts in comedy. We also delve into the themes of absurdist humor and the creative process behind writing for television and film. Mandel discusses the balance between humor and storytelling in his work, the significance of age in experiencing Star Wars, and the thrill of the hunt in collecting. All my links Thanks to both David Mandel and Jim Maxwell for being great! This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 23, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Gino Acevedo, a renowned makeup and special effects artist known for his work on films like Lord of the Rings and Alien 3. Gino shares his journey from a childhood fascination with monster movies to becoming a professional in the film industry. He discusses his early inspirations, the pivotal moments that led him to pursue a career in special effects, and his experiences working on iconic films. Gino's insights into the evolution of makeup effects and the importance of mentorship in the industry provide a captivating look into the world of film production. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 21, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview film composer Daniel Pemberton, who shares his journey from a young music enthusiast to a sought-after composer in the film industry. The conversation explores Pemberton's early influences, his transition from television to film, and the challenges of scoring for established directors like Guy Ritchie. Pemberton emphasizes the importance of creativity, limitations, and the impact of industry changes on his career. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of film music and the need for composers to push creative boundaries while navigating the demands of the filmmaking process. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 4, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with T Dan Hofstedt, a talented animator who has worked on major Disney projects such as Aladdin, The Lion King, and Mulan. Tidan shares his journey into animation, influenced by his father's work at Disneyland and his early exposure to the art form. He discusses his education at CalArts, his first job at Hanna Barbera, and his experiences working with renowned animators like John Pomeroy. The conversation delves into the intricacies of animation, the importance of weight and balance in character movement, and the evolution of the animation industry. My mic recording got somehow trashed so what you’ll hear is the recording of my mic through Zoom, rather than on my normally separate recording. But hopefully it won’t make a big difference. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 15, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with documentary director John Spira about his new series, Real Britannia, which explores the history of British cinema. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of creating the series, the importance of uncovering lesser-known films, and the role of humor in documentary filmmaking. John shares insights into the filmmaking process, the significance of British cinema, and the educational impact of the series on audiences. Britbox.com Elstree 1976 Hollywood Bulldogs All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 25, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Justin Berger, author of 'The Empire Strikes Back, Unauthorized Timeline, 1975-2020.' We discuss Justin's lifelong love for Star Wars, the inspiration behind his timeline book, and the announcement of a new project focusing on 'Return of the Jedi.' The conversation highlights the importance of preserving film history and the contributions of fans in documenting the legacy of Star Wars. Justin Berger is the author of The Empire Strikes Back Unauthorized Timeline 1975 - 2020. It’s a reference book that catalogues all the major and minor dates surrounding the inception, pre production, production and aftermath of The Empire Strikes Back. During this episode Justin and I have an announcement, the title and thumbnail to this episode was a big hint… https://jeditimeline.com https://www.amazon.co.uk/Empire-Strikes-Back-Unauthorized-Timeline/dp/1095497197 All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 3, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Michael Pangrazio, a renowned matte painter and art director known for his work on iconic films such as Raiders of the Lost Ark and Star Wars. The conversation delves into Pangrazio's journey into the world of matte painting, his experiences at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and the creative processes behind some of the most memorable shots in film history. Pangrazio reflects on the evolution of visual effects, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of social media on his legacy. Michael is now based in Australia working with Peter Jackson’s Weta in New Zealand for some 15 years. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 25, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I celebrate the 50th episode milestone with the second part of a conversation with Lorne Peterson, a former model maker at ILM, discussing the evolution of model making and special effects in film, the impact of CGI, and the challenges faced during the transition to digital effects. The conversation highlights key moments in film history, the collaborative nature of filmmaking, and the creative processes behind iconic movie scenes. Lorne shares behind-the-scenes stories about the Millennium Falcon's design, the challenges of creating realistic explosions, and reflects on his proudest moments in the industry. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 19, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Lorne Peterson, a founding member of Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) and chief model maker for iconic films including the original Star Wars trilogy. Lorne shares his journey into the world of filmmaking, the innovations he brought to model making, and the collaborative environment at ILM that fostered creativity. He discusses the design process behind the models, the excitement of seeing his work on the big screen, and the lasting impact of his contributions to the Star Wars franchise. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 23, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Paul Franklin, a renowned visual effects supervisor at DNEG, about his journey into the world of visual effects, the founding of Double Negative, and his experiences working with acclaimed director Christopher Nolan. The conversation delves into the evolution of visual effects in filmmaking, the importance of collaboration among departments, and the artistry involved in creating compelling visual narratives. Franklin shares insights on maintaining creative ownership in a large team environment and the challenges of modern visual effects production. The Escape TED Talk Crystal Palace Film Festival All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 15, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I explore the historical and cultural significance of the Regent Street Cinema with Sara Varani. We discuss the cinema's rich history, its adaptation during the pandemic, and the unique experience it offers to audiences. The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between honoring the past and embracing future technologies in the cinema industry. Regent Street Cinema All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 25, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with VFX guru Craig Barron about his journey into the world of visual effects, starting from his childhood fascination with movies to his pivotal role at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). Craig shares insights into his experiences working on iconic films like Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back, discussing the artistic and technical challenges faced during production. He highlights the evolution of matte painting techniques and the collaborative environment at ILM, as well as the impact of George Lucas's vision on the industry. The conversation also touches on the transition from traditional effects to digital innovations in filmmaking. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 16, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries Podcast, I speak with Garrett Brown, the inventor of the Steadicam. We discuss Brown's early influences, his journey into invention, and the development of the Steadicam, which revolutionized filmmaking by allowing for stable handheld shots. Brown shares anecdotes from his career, including the challenges he faced and the impact of his invention on the film industry. The conversation also touches on the evolution of camera technology and the future of filmmaking. Three very different films and three completely difference applications of the steadicam.The steadicam of course is a camera stabilising system, with the stability of a conventional tripod mount but with the fluid motion of a dolly shot as well as the flexibility of hand-held camera work. Garrett’s incredible invention smoothly follows the operator's broad movements, while the the Steadicam's arm absorbs jerks, bumps, and shakes, while its almost frictionless gimbal gives precise control of the camera and framing. It’s used on everything from film, light entertainment TV shows and just about every sport you can think of. Garrett won a special Academy Award for Science and Technology for his invention. Just to put this into perspective, winners include those responsible for colour film, Cinescope, IMAX, Avid. All seismic innovations in the industry. Huge thanks to my friend and old colleague Patrick Van Weeran for putting me in touch with Garrett back in 2017 and providing me with some research literature that I wouldn’t have otherwise found. Steadicam Demo Reel All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 27, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I engage in a deep conversation with documentary director Frank Pavich. We explore Frank's journey into filmmaking, his experiences in film school, and the evolution of his career, particularly focusing on his acclaimed documentary 'Jodorowsky's Dune.' The discussion highlights the challenges and triumphs of documentary filmmaking, the importance of collaboration, and the unexpected reunions that can occur in the creative process. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 15, 2022

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I welcome director John Spira, known for his documentary 'Elstree 1976'. The conversation explores John's journey into filmmaking, the impact of film school, and his transition into documentary work. We discuss the making of 'Elstree 1976', audience reception, and the importance of preserving stories from those on the fringes of the film industry. John shares insights on the unique perspectives of lesser-known figures in cinema, emphasizing the value of their narratives in understanding the broader cultural context. Since making Elstree 1976, Jon has most recently made Hollywood Bulldogs Hollywood Bulldogs: The Rise and Falls of the Great British Stuntman which is currently on Britbox here in the UK. I really enjoyed listening to the stories of this unconventional group of men who worked on some of the biggest films in movie history. Hollywood Bulldogs Trailer Elstree 1976 Trailer All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 20, 2021

My friend and colleague Jason Henry, director of Disney+'s Prop Culture, suggested that he should interview me for my own podcast. A "getting to know Jamie Benning episode" he said. The day before we were due to record, Jason suggested our mutual friend and presenter of Prop Culture, Dan Lanigan should host the interview. So here is Dan Lanigan, presenter, producer, prop collector turning the tables by interviewing ME, Jamie Benning. We discuss my journey in creating filmumentaries, a unique blend of films and documentaries that provide behind-the-scenes insights into beloved movies. I share the challenges I've faced, including copyright issues and the evolution of my work into podcasting. I share stories of unexpected opportunities in Hollywood, including a meeting with Brett Ratner, and the challenges I faced in getting projects off the ground. Merry Christmas / Happy Holidays to you all. And thanks for the continued support. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 15, 2021

Bonus episode.I released episode 40 today. My conversation with author John Glennie. But as it's close to Christmas, I thought "what the heck"... lets put out episode 41 too.Both are with authors of great movie books that you should be adding to your Christmas list.So, here's my chat with author John Walsh about his new book Escape from New York The Official Story of the Film, available now! Twitter - @walshbros Book on Amazon Book at Waterstones Support the show This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 15, 2021

Welcome to episode 40 of The Filmumentaries Podcast.Now I am a lover of movie books. I own a lot of them. I have owned more than I now have. Some favourites include Alan Arnold’s Once Upon a Galaxy - The Making of The Empire Strikes Back, Paul Sammon’s Future Noir - The making of Blade Runner, Steven Bach’s – Final Cut. So many to name. But what I didn’t know, I am embarrassed to say, that I had no idea about fellow Brit author Jay Glennie’s books on The Deer Hunter, Raging Bull and Trainspotting until pretty recently. A kind twitter follower mentioned Jay and his books. Immediately I could see that Jay had a great eye for the huge stills that are included within his books, but also that there was a clear and engaging narrative throughout. In late November 2021 Jay and I spoke over Zoom. Coattail Publications Support the show This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 30, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I'm joined by guests Frank Pavich, Dan Lanigan, and Soby, we discuss the fascinating story of Alejandro Jodorowsky's Dune and the recent auction of its pitch book, which sold for $3 million. We also explore the cultural significance of the pitch book, the impact of community involvement in the auction, and the broader implications of art ownership in the digital age. The conversation delves into the intersection of art, value, and community, highlighting the importance of storytelling and the role of collectors in preserving cultural artifacts. What is a DAO What is crypto currency What is blockchain What is the Dunning Kruger effect All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 29, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview renowned producer Howard Kazanjian, known for his work on iconic films such as Raiders of the Lost Ark and Return of the Jedi. The conversation delves into Howard's early career, the evolution of the studio system, and his collaboration with George Lucas. Howard shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of major productions, the importance of teamwork in filmmaking, and his reflections on the industry. He emphasizes the significance of preserving film history and the lessons learned throughout his career, making this episode a valuable resource for aspiring filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike. Howard Kazanjian - A Producer's Life is now available in bookstores - find it here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 9, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I discuss the intricate sound design of the film Dune with sound designers Mark Mangini and Theo Green. We explore the importance of sound in creating immersive cinematic experiences, the collaborative process between sound and visual effects, and the innovative techniques used to develop unique sounds for the film. The conversation highlights the significance of engaging sound designers early in the filmmaking process and how sound can enhance storytelling. The discussion highlights specific sound design choices, such as the creation of the Ornithopter's sound and the subtlety of the Hunter Seeker's audio, as well as the broader implications of sound design in the film industry. Just so you know, Mark is the American voice, Theo is the British voice. We did have some technical difficulties at the beginning, which I’ve left in, because if I cut it out it wouldn’t make much sense as we refer back to it a couple of times later on in the conversation. Huge thanks to Mark and Theo as well as Emilie Erskine of Erskine PR who organised the interview and was able to provide me with those wonderful sound clips from Dune (2021). All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 15, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview editor Sean Barton, who shares his journey into the film industry, his experiences working on iconic films like Quadrophenia and Return of the Jedi, and his insights into the evolution of film editing from traditional methods to digital techniques. The conversation explores the impact of editing on performances and the challenges faced by editors in the modern film landscape. Barton reflects on his work on iconic films like Jagged Edge, revealing insights into the editing process, the challenges of working with directors and actors, and the emotional weight of making tough editing decisions. We also discuss the nuances of performance in film, the impact of editing choices on storytelling, and the cultural differences in editing styles between American and British editors. Barton shares his experiences with various editing software and expresses a desire to work on a Western film. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 30, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview Colin Goudie, a veteran film editor known for his work on 'Monsters' and 'Rogue One'. We discuss Goudie's journey from his early education in photography to his extensive career at the BBC and his transition to freelance editing. Colin shares valuable insights about the editing process, the importance of training, and the evolution of editing technology, particularly the differences between Lightworks and Avid. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of being an editor in the film industry. As well as Monsters and Rogue One, Colin has more recently edited 'To Olivia' and 'The Show'. Both worth checking out. 'To Olivia', a Sky Original film, available on Sky Cinema and Now TV from 19th February 2021 All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 21, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Gabriel Hardman, a comic book artist and storyboard artist. We discuss Gabriel's artistic journey, influences, and the importance of storytelling in both comics and film. Gabriel shares insights on the role of mentorship in his career, the value of comics in the film industry, and the significance of framing and emotion in visual storytelling. The conversation also touches on the art of minimalism in storytelling, the filmmaking process, and the role of storyboards in creating impactful films. Now Gabriel and I got in touch over Twitter, thanks to good guy Duncan Fegredo. I didn't actually know much about Gabriel, but after some searching online I found that I was in fact aware of some of his work. He's a comic book artist and writer. And he’s also a very sought after storyboard artist. It was lovely talking to him. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 1, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Oscar-winning sound designer Gary Rydstrom, known for his work on iconic films such as Jurassic Park and Saving Private Ryan. Rydstrom shares his journey into the film industry, influenced by silent films and the groundbreaking sound design of the 1970s. He discusses his experiences at Lucasfilm, the evolution of sound design, and the collaborative process with directors like Steven Spielberg and James Cameron. The conversation highlights the importance of sound in film and the creative techniques used to evoke emotions in audiences. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 15, 2021

Back in June 2021 I had the pleasure of speaking to prolific playwright, film writer and director John Patrick Shanley. Thanks to former guest Jim Maxwell (digital matte artist) for putting me in touch with John. In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with acclaimed writer and director John Patrick Shanley. We explore Shanley's creative journey, from his early days of writing poetry to his successful career in theatre and film. Shanley shares insights on the importance of mentorship, the challenges of navigating success and failure, and the collaborative nature of storytelling in both mediums. He reflects on his experiences with boredom as a catalyst for creativity, the impact of success on future projects, and the significance of character development in his works. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt reflection on winning an Oscar and the importance of allowing oneself to embrace joy and success. Shanley also delves into the challenges of directing and editing, as well as his upcoming projects, including a new film and a play. John's Moonstruck Oscar speech - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 11, 2021

After chatting with Walter for Episode 30 he asked me if I was happy with what I'd got. I replied saying I wish I had asked him about Return to Oz. He kindly offered another 45 minutes on the subject, so we went ahead the following Monday and chatted for almost an hour about his directorial debut. Murch shares insights into Disney's changing approach in the 1980s, his personal connection to the Oz books, and the darker tone of his film compared to the original Wizard of Oz. The discussion also touches on the film's reception, the challenges faced during production, and the cultural impact of Return to Oz, particularly regarding its female protagonist and visual storytelling. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 16, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with film legend Walter Murch, exploring his journey in sound design and editing. Murch shares insights from his early fascination with audio, his experiences in film school during the Vietnam War, and his influential work on iconic films like The Godfather and American Graffiti. The conversation delves into the creative processes behind sound design, the impact of global cinema, and the evolution of editing techniques, providing a rich understanding of Murch's contributions to the film industry. He also discusses his experiences working on iconic films like Apocalypse Now and Coup 53, and reflects on the evolution of filmmaking techniques. Murch also touches on his upcoming book, which expands on his previous work, In the Blink of an Eye, to include a broader range of filmmaking topics. In the Blink of an Eye - By Walter Murch - here. The Conversations: Walter Murch and the Art of Editing Film - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 1, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Dan Perry, a legendary title designer known for his work on iconic films such as Star Wars and The Exorcist. We discuss Perry's journey into the world of title design, the evolution of the craft, and the collaborative process involved in creating memorable title sequences. Perry shares insights into the emotional and technical aspects of his work, as well as the influence of directors and the importance of titles in setting the tone for films. The conversation emphasizes the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the significance of giving back to the next generation of creatives. Dan's Site - here. Dan's Book - here. Here's my favourite example of Dan's work - Taxi Driver - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 22, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Roger Christian, the set decorator for Star Wars and art director for Alien. We discuss Christian's early inspirations, his journey into the film industry, and the pivotal moments that led him to work on Star Wars. Christian shares insights into the creative process behind the film, the challenges faced on set, and the innovative solutions that emerged from a tight budget. He also reflects on the importance of collaboration within the art department and the legacy of the iconic props he helped create, including Luke's lightsaber. Christian also shares insights into his return to the Star Wars universe for The Phantom Menace and reflects on the future of the franchise, including his upcoming documentary and book. Black Angel (1980) - here. Cinema Alchemist Book - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 1, 2021

AS A THANK YOU THIS IS A BONUS EPISODE AND NOT CHARGED TO PATRONS ON PATREON. In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview filmmaker John Lefkowitz about his documentary on Walter Murch, a renowned editor and sound designer. We discuss Murch's philosophical approach to cinema, the art of editing, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking. The conversation delves into personal experiences with editing, sound design's impact on storytelling, and the importance of the editor in shaping a film's narrative. The conversation also touches on the personal experiences of Walter Murch and the significance of human intuition in the editing process. Sight & Sound: The Cinema of Walter Murch can be watched for FREE - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 18, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with digital matte artist, Jim Maxwell about his journey in the film industry, the evolution of matte painting from traditional techniques to digital methods, and his experiences working at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). We discuss the importance of photo reference in creating realistic matte paintings, the challenges of working in high-resolution formats, and Jim's memorable encounter with George Lucas. The discussion also touches on the role of art departments in filmmaking and the balance between concept art and final renderings. You can follow him @1jcmaxwell Here's Jim's IMDB page - here. And details of his Emmy Award and nominations - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

May 1, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with film journalist and author Helen O'Hara about her book 'Women vs Hollywood: The Fall and Rise of Women in Film.' We discuss Helen's journey into film journalism, the historical context of women's roles in the film industry, the challenges they face, and the misconceptions surrounding gender equality in Hollywood. The conversation also touches on cultural reflections within fandoms and the backlash against diversity in film. Finally, the conversation addresses the need for better representation of young audiences in film, particularly for teenage girls. Helen's book can be purchased here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 14, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview director Peter McDonald, who shares his journey into the film industry, his experiences working with legendary actors and directors, and the challenges he faced while directing. McDonald reflects on his career highlights, the importance of collaboration, and the lessons learned from both good and difficult experiences in filmmaking. The discussion also delves into the magic of the Harry Potter films and concludes with McDonald's reflections on his career and the evolution of filmmaking. Check out Peter's extensive list of work on IMDB - here. Also a nice article about Peter on the British Cinematrorapher site - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Apr 5, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Madeleine Most, a second assistant camera on iconic films like The Empire Strikes Back. Madeleine shares her unique experiences as a woman in the male-dominated film industry of the 70s and 80s, discussing her journey into filmmaking, the challenges she faced on set, and the importance of women's roles in film production. The conversation highlights the dynamics of working on major film sets, the camaraderie among cast and crew, and the evolution of gender representation in the industry. Hearing the point of view of a woman who worked in a sexist industry at a time when representations of women were typically what we might now call problematic is part of the education I wanted for myself in doing this podcast. These aren’t the stories that are widely told and they are important. Madelyn's partner director Peter Macdonald is my guest on episode 24 coming later this month (April 2021) Robert Watts - A Life in Film - here. Women Behind the Camera - here. Director Peter Macdonald - here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 23, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview Ivor Powell, a prominent producer and writer known for his work on iconic films such as 2001: A Space Odyssey, Alien, and Blade Runner. The conversation delves into Powell's early career, his experiences working with legendary directors like Stanley Kubrick and Ridley Scott, and the creative processes behind some of the most influential films in cinema history. Powell shares insights on the importance of luck in the film industry, the challenges of budgeting for major productions, and the lasting impact of films like Alien and Blade Runner on the genre. The video version of part 1 of my chat with Ivor can be found here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 16, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Patrick McClung, a veteran in the visual effects industry known for his work on iconic films such as Star Wars, Blade Runner, and Ghostbusters. Patrick shares his journey into the world of miniature effects, detailing his early interests, experiences in the military, and eventual entry into the film industry. He discusses the evolution of visual effects, the collaborative nature of filmmaking, and the unique challenges faced during production. The conversation highlights Patrick's passion for building and creating, as well as his insights into the changing landscape of visual effects in cinema. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Mar 5, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentary podcast, I speak with Gavin Rothery, director of 'Archive' and visual effects supervisor for Duncan Jones's 'Moon'. We discuss Gavin's early inspirations, his unconventional path into filmmaking, and the collaborative process behind Moon. Gavin shares insights on managing expectations in the creative industry, the importance of perseverance, and the emotional rollercoaster of filmmaking. The conversation also touches on the transition from Moon to Archive, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. Check out Archive on your favourite streaming service. Find the trailer here. Archive on Blu Ray here. And the Ivor Powell documentary I mentioned in the outro is available here. All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 19, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentary podcast, I interview Joe Alves, the legendary production designer known for his work on iconic films like Jaws and Close Encounters. Joe shares his journey from a young artist to a prominent figure in the film industry, detailing his experiences in animation, live-action filmmaking, and the challenges faced during the production of Jaws. The conversation delves into the intricacies of set design, character development, and the innovative techniques used to bring the shark to life on screen. Joe has a book called “Joe Alves, Production Designer” it’s written by Dennis L Prince with a foreword by effects artist Greg Nicotero.You can buy it at Joe's site - here Jaws - A Filmumentary - https://vimeo.com/68400837 All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Feb 9, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with the director of Dangerous Days (the amazing Blade Runner documentary), Charles de Lauzirika, and also Bruce Wright who works for Disney Animation. This conversation delves into the fascinating history of Blade Runner, focusing on the accidental screening of a work print in 1990 that captivated a small audience and sparked discussions about the film's legacy. We explore the film's evolution through various cuts, the impact of Ridley Scott's vision, and the cultural significance of Blade Runner in cinema history. As mentioned in my intro - The Ivor Powell documentary can be found here All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 27, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I spoke to the wonderfully talented industrial designer, illustrator, concept artist and producer, Nilo Rodis-Jamero. I’ve been pretty much obsessed with Nilo’s work since I was four or five years old, after looking at The Empire Strikes Back Sketchbook and later, The Art of Return of the Jedi. Two books that I still own to this day. Nilo worked on The Empire Strikes Back, Poltergeist, Return of the Jedi and several Star Trek films coming up with amazing concepts thanks to his talent and skill in industrial design. He also worked on costumer design for RoTJ. This impact of which still resonates today in the Disney+ series, The Mandalorian. Nilo shares his unique journey into the film industry, his creative process, and the challenges he faced while designing memorable characters and creatures. The conversation delves into the collaborative nature of filmmaking, the evolution of designs, and the importance of creative freedom in the industry. I enjoyed talking to Nilo immensely. He was intelligent, warm, kind, funny and wise. Just as you'd want him to be! Better in fact. Take a listen. Trust me. You're in for a real treat. Do check out the following books: - The Empire Strikes Back Sketchbook Return of the Jedi Sketchbook The Art of The Empire Strikes Back The Art of Return of the Jedi Also check out Mark Burman's wonderful Empire 40th radio doco All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 21, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentary podcast, I interview Academy Award-winning sound designer Mark Mangini. We discuss Mangini's journey into the film industry, his early inspirations, and his transition from Hanna-Barbera to sound editing. The conversation delves into the art of sound design, particularly in animation, and the collaborative process with directors like Denis Villeneuve. Mangini emphasizes the importance of sound in storytelling, the power of silence, and how to maintain freshness in sound design throughout his extensive career. The Kuleshov Experiment - http://filmmakersfans.com/the-kuleshov-filmmaking-experiment-in-editing Mark's blog and site can be found here. He's also on Twitter as @mark_mangini and on Facebook at markmanginiofficial Also, do check out this great in-depth video about the sound department's work on BR 2049 - https://vimeo.com/237369956 All my links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jan 12, 2021

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Martin Meunier, a French visual effects artist who shares his journey from a childhood fascination with Star Wars to a successful career in the film industry. Martin discusses his early experiences in France, his move to the US, and his work on notable films like James and the Giant Peach and Starship Troopers. He reflects on the influence of Star Wars on his career, the importance of connections in the industry, and the transition from practical effects to digital modeling. The conversation also touches on the challenges of burnout and the pursuit of creative fulfillment. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Dec 24, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview stunt performer Ben Dimmock, who shares insights into his career in the film and TV industry. Dimmock discusses his early influences, the rigorous training and qualifications required to become a stunt performer, and the evolution of stunt work in the age of CGI. He also delves into the pressures of performing stunts, the collaborative nature of stunt coordination, and shares behind-the-scenes stories from major film productions like Mission Impossible and Captain America. Dimmock also reflects on the challenges posed by COVID-19, and his current projects, including work on the upcoming Little Mermaid film. His website is - https://www.ragestunts.com/ On instagram he is - https://www.instagram.com/ragestunts?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Thanks to Ollie Green for setting this one up. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 25, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview Paul Blake, the actor who portrayed Greedo in the original Star Wars film. The conversation covers Blake's journey into the role, his experiences on set, interactions with George Lucas and Harrison Ford, and the lasting impact of Star Wars on his career. Blake shares anecdotes about the audition process, character development, and the behind-the-scenes dynamics of filming. The discussion also touches on the cultural significance of Star Wars and its enduring legacy in cinema. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 20, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with Marty Brennis, a veteran of Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) who worked on numerous iconic films. The conversation covers Brennis's journey from working with Francis Ford Coppola to George Lucas, his contributions to motion control systems, and the evolution of technology in filmmaking. Brennis shares insights on the importance of communication, the transition from analog to digital, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes in the film industry. He reflects on his long career, the challenges faced, and the pride in being part of groundbreaking projects. A big thanks to Johnnyb aka @agraphafx on twitter for linking me up with Marty! All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Nov 12, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview J.W. Rinsler, a renowned author known for his behind-the-scenes books on iconic films. We discuss Rinsler's journey to Lucasfilm, the challenges of researching and writing definitive making-of books, and the importance of archives in uncovering hidden stories. Rinsler shares insights into navigating sensitive topics in filmmaking, the evolution of his projects, and his recent novel, 'All Up,' which explores the history of the space race. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication required in the filmmaking and publishing processes. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Oct 13, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with illustrator Sylvain Despry, who has worked with renowned directors like Ridley Scott and Stanley Kubrick. We discuss Despry's journey into the artistic world, the importance of mentorship, and the role of storyboarding in filmmaking. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on art, the challenges faced by artists during the pandemic, and Despry's upcoming film project about the brand, Brand X. Throughout the discussion, Despry emphasizes the need for artistic integrity and the importance of preserving the craft of filmmaking. Regarding Sylvain's new book: Publisher's website All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 9, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentary's podcast, I speak with Kenneth George Godwin, author of 'The David Lynch Files, volume two, Dune.' Kenneth shares his unique experiences working on the set of Dune, detailing his journey from writing an essay on Eraserhead to being hired by David Lynch. The conversation explores the challenges faced during the production, the tensions between artistic vision and commercial demands, and the impact of Dune on Lynch's career. Kenneth also reflects on the lost footage from the documentary he shot and how it shaped his career in filmmaking. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Sep 7, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview Charles de la Sarica, a renowned figure in behind-the-scenes filmmaking. We discuss Charles's journey into the world of documentaries, the challenges of capturing the filmmaking process authentically, and the evolution of behind-the-scenes content. Charles shares insights on balancing storytelling with authenticity, the impact of streaming on documentary content, and his aspirations for future projects. The conversation highlights the importance of preserving film legacies and the role of documentaries in inspiring new generations of filmmakers. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 20, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with puppeteers Toby Philpott, Dave Barkley, and John Coppinger, who share their experiences working on the iconic character Jabba the Hutt in 'Return of the Jedi.' They discuss their paths to the film, the challenges of building and performing as Jabba, and the lasting legacy of their work in the Star Wars universe. The conversation highlights the collaborative nature of filmmaking, the innovative techniques used in puppeteering, and the ongoing connection with fans through conventions and events. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Aug 6, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with prop collector Dan Lanigan about the fascinating world of movie props. We discuss the emotional connections that props create for fans, the challenges of collecting, and the importance of preserving these artifacts for future generations. Dan shares insights from his experiences working on the Disney Plus show 'Prop Culture' and the significance of props in film history. The conversation also touches on the business side of prop collecting, the value of unique items, and Dan's aspirations for future projects. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 22, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview special effects supervisor Kevin Pike, who shares his fascinating journey from being a busboy to working on iconic films like Jaws, Back to the Future, and Jurassic Park. Kevin discusses his experiences in the film industry, the evolution of special effects, and his transition to screenplay consulting, providing insights into the creative process and the challenges faced by filmmakers. Kevin's site can be found at Filmtrix.net All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jul 12, 2020

In this episode of the Filmunetaries podcast, I interview Paul Hirsch, an Oscar-winning film editor known for his work on iconic films such as Star Wars and Ferris Bueller's Day Off. The conversation explores Hirsch's journey into the editing world, the transition from film to digital editing, and the collaborative process with directors. Hirsch shares insights on the art of editing, the challenges faced in modern filmmaking, and the impact of technology on the editing process. The discussion also touches on the nuances of editing different genres, particularly comedy, and concludes with reflections on a long and successful career in the film industry. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 28, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I interview Tim Rose, a renowned puppeteer and animatronics engineer known for his work on iconic characters such as Admiral Ackbar and Salacious Crumb. The conversation delves into Tim's journey into puppeteering, the magic of the Muppets, and the challenges of modern filmmaking. Tim shares insights on character development, the importance of rehearsal, and the legacy of Jim Henson, while reflecting on the evolution of animatronics and the future of the craft. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links

Jun 4, 2020

In this episode of the Filmumentaries podcast, I speak with fellow Star Wars superfan Giles Terera, a talented actor, director, and storyteller. We discuss the journey of creating the documentary Muse of Fire, the challenges faced during its production, and the impact it has had on education. Giles shares his experiences performing in the hit musical Hamilton, the intensity of theatre life, and the importance of collaboration in storytelling. The conversation also touches on future projects and the lasting legacy of creative works. All the links This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: https://patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube: Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: https://youtube.com/filmumentaries All my links