The Making Of

"The Making Of" explores the creative pros behind the most innovative films & TV shows in recent history.

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149 episodes
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Episodes149

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Nov 25, 2025 · 55 min
"Frankenstein" VFX Supervisor Dennis Berardi on Crafting Visual FX, Creating with Guillermo del Toro, & More
In this episode, we welcome Dennis Berardi. Dennis is a top VFX Supervisor who has worked on films including Frankenstein, The Shape of Water, Nightmare Alley, Ad Astra, Hellboy, Crimson Peak, Pacific Rim, Tron: Legacy, Resident Evil: Retribution, Dawn of the Dead, The Cell, and Fight Club. In our chat, he shares about his career path, longtime collaboration with Guillermo del Toro, and about the making of Frankenstein. Dennis also offers recommendations for up-and-coming visual effects artists and creatives. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: ICYMI: AJA’s biggest product releases in 2025 From multi-channel HD and 4K/UltraHD IP video solutions, to Mini-Converters for bridging between resolutions, connectivity types, protocols, and codecs, a Mini-Converter frame, and a high-capacity 12G-SDI router, AJA announced several new products in 2025 that address emerging workflow needs across broadcast, production, post, and proAV. Get the full rundown here Vimeo Austin Event: Dec. 9th | AFS Cinema A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-11pm Reception (complimentary drinks + bites) Free RSVP here. Seats are first come, first served. Shoot. Store. Secure. Smile. The OWC Guardian is a bus‑powered, portable NVMe SSD featuring 256‑bit AES OPAL hardware encryption and a color touch‑screen for intuitive, secure access. With up to 1,000 MB/s real‑world transfer speeds, platform‑agnostic operation (Mac, PC, iPad Pro), and a rugged anodized aluminum enclosure, it’s built to protect audit‑sensitive media and projects anytime, anywhere. Learn more here Meet Stream Deck Studio: Meet Stream Deck Studio, the ultimate control surface designed for professional broadcast and live production environments. Built on the iconic Elgato hardware and powered by Bitfocus software, it offers a hyper-customizable experience that simplifies even the most complex workflows. With compatibility across hundreds of devices from the industry’s top vendors, Stream Deck Studio gives you complete command over your production setup, making it easier than ever to create seamless, high-quality broadcasts. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to learn more and take your production control to the next level today! Learn more here Advertise in “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 250K film, TV and video professionals each week. For more information, please email mvalinsky@me.com Podcast Rewind: Nov. 2025 - Ep. 105… Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Nov 18, 2025 · 42 min
"Sinners" Cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw ASC on Crafting the Film using IMAX Cameras, Collaborating with Coogler, & More
In this episode, we welcome Autumn Durald Arkapaw, ASC. Autumn has shot films including Sinners, The Last Showgirl, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Beastie Boys Story, “Loki” and Palo Alto. In our chat, she shares about her roots, early cinematic inspirations, pathway into filmmaking, and how she approached the cinematography of Sinners. Autumn also talks about working with IMAX cameras, her lens choices, and other insights into the making of this standout film of 2025. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges here. Shoot. Store. Secure. Smile. The OWC Guardian is a bus‑powered, portable NVMe SSD featuring 256‑bit AES OPAL hardware encryption and a color touch‑screen for intuitive, secure access. With up to 1,000 MB/s real‑world transfer speeds, platform‑agnostic operation (Mac, PC, iPad Pro), and a rugged anodized aluminum enclosure, it’s built to protect audit‑sensitive media and projects anytime, anywhere. Learn more here Meet Stream Deck Studio: Meet Stream Deck Studio, the ultimate control surface designed for professional broadcast and live production environments. Built on the iconic Elgato hardware and powered by Bitfocus software, it offers a hyper-customizable experience that simplifies even the most complex workflows. With compatibility across hundreds of devices from the industry’s top vendors, Stream Deck Studio gives you complete command over your production setup, making it easier than ever to create seamless, high-quality broadcasts. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to learn more and take your production control to the next level today! Explore here Women in Media — Holiday Toast 2025 Dec 6th | 10am – 2pm Hotel Sofitel | Beverly Hills, CA Join Women In Media as we raise a glass to legendary women of the entertainment industry. There will be a champagne brunch, silent auction, panel with honorees, and celebratory toasts by their toastmasters. Holiday Toast 2025 Honorees include Ashley Nicole Black, Writer/Actor (Shrinking, Ted Lasso, A Black Lady Sketch Show), Toastmaster Chelsea Devantez, Comedian, Writer (The Problem with John Stewart, Girls5Eva), Krystina Figg, Best Boy Grip, Grip (Superman, Killers of the Flower Moon, Dunkirk), and Mandy Walker, AM, ACS, ASC, Director of Photography (Elvis, Hidden Figures, Mulan), President of the American Society of Cinematographers. Get tickets and tables here Podcast Rewind: Nov. 2025 - Ep. 104… Advertise in this newsletter and reach 250K film and TV industry professionals each week. For more information, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Nov 14, 2025 · 13 min
"Tulsa King" & "Boardwalk Empire" Star Vincent Piazza on Season 3, His Acting Journey, & More
In this episode, we welcome Vincent Piazza. Vincent stars in “Tulsa King,” and is also known for his lead role as Lucky Luciano in “Boardwalk Empire.” In our chat, we hear about his NYC roots, education, career path, and approach to his character in “Tulsa King.” In addition, Vincent offers insights and recommendations for actors and emerging filmmakers today. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. Shoot. Store. Secure. Smile. The OWC Guardian is a bus‑powered, portable NVMe SSD featuring 256‑bit AES OPAL hardware encryption and a color touch‑screen for intuitive, secure access. With up to 1,000 MB/s real‑world transfer speeds, platform‑agnostic operation (Mac, PC, iPad Pro), and a rugged anodized aluminum enclosure, it’s built to protect audit‑sensitive media and projects anytime, anywhere. Learn more here ZEISS Events at Camerimage Immersive Action Cinematography with Movement Specialist Daniel Ilabaca Tuesday, November 1814:30 - 16:00Venue: CKK Jordanki – Seminar Room and Camerimage Online Platform Former stuntman and Parkour performer turned filmmaker Daniel Ilabaca has been researching immersive filming for a while. Now with smaller camera bodies and compact full format lenses such as the ZEISS Nano Primes, it’s becoming possible to literally wear the camera without compromising the quality of the footage. Be a fly on the wall as Daniel turns the seminar room into a production office: from screenwriting to shot-listing, location scouting, and camera rigging, he’ll take us on a gliding tour of his creative process, as he goes through the preproduction of his upcoming passion project. Learn more here Meet Stream Deck Studio: Meet Stream Deck Studio, the ultimate control surface designed for professional broadcast and live production environments. Built on the iconic Elgato hardware and powered by Bitfocus software, it offers a hyper-customizable experience that simplifies even the most complex workflows. With compatibility across hundreds of devices from the industry’s top vendors, Stream Deck Studio gives you complete command over your production setup, making it easier than ever to create seamless, high-quality broadcasts. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to learn more and take your production control to the next level today! Explore here Podcast Rewind: Nov. 2025 - Ep. 103… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K film & TV industry pros each week. For more information, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Nov 10, 2025 · 43 min
Kira Kelly ASC on Crafting the Jordan Peele Thriller "Him," Cinematography Insights, & More
In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Kira Kelly, ASC. Kira has shot projects including Him, 13th, “The Red Line,” “Queen Sugar,” and Rez Ball. In our chat, she shares about her formative years, filmmaking education, and work on the new Jordan Peele-produced movie, Him. Kira also offers extensive cinematography insights and practical advice for emerging filmmakers and industry pros everywhere. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. Shoot. Store. Secure. Smile. The OWC Guardian is a bus‑powered, portable NVMe SSD featuring 256‑bit AES OPAL hardware encryption and a color touch‑screen for intuitive, secure access. With up to 1,000 MB/s real‑world transfer speeds, platform‑agnostic operation (Mac, PC, iPad Pro), and a rugged anodized aluminum enclosure, it’s built to protect audit‑sensitive media and projects anytime, anywhere. Learn more here American Film Market (AFM) Nov. 11-16, 2025 • Los Angeles AFM is the premier film acquisition, development and networking event where more than $1 Billion in distribution and film financing deals are closed each year on completed films and those in every stage of development. More business-oriented than any other motion picture event, thousands of professionals from all corners of our industry come together at AFM to develop, showcase, discover, finance and license 1000s of independent films and projects destined for the world’s audiences. Learn more here Women in Media — Holiday Toast 2025 Dec 6th | 10am – 2pm Hotel Sofitel | Beverly Hills, CA Join Women In Media as we raise a glass to legendary women of the entertainment industry. There will be a champagne brunch, silent auction, panel with honorees, and celebratory toasts by their toastmasters. Holiday Toast 2025 Honorees include Ashley Nicole Black, Writer/Actor (Shrinking, Ted Lasso, A Black Lady Sketch Show), Toastmaster Chelsea Devantez, Comedian, Writer (The Problem with John Stewart, Girls5Eva), Krystina Figg, Best Boy Grip, Grip (Superman, Killers of the Flower Moon, Dunkirk), and Mandy Walker, AM, ACS, ASC, Director of Photography (Elvis, Hidden Figures, Mulan), President of the American Society of Cinematographers. Get tickets and tables here Meet Stream Deck Studio: Meet Stream Deck Studio, the ultimate control surface designed for professional broadcast and live production environments. Built on the iconic Elgato hardware and powered by Bitfocus software, it offers a hyper-customizable experience that simplifies even the most complex workflows. With compatibility across hundreds of devices from the industry’s top vendors, Stream Deck Studio gives you complete command over your production setup, making it easier than ever to create seamless, high-quality broadcasts. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to learn more and take your production control to the next level today! Explore here Podcast Rewind: Nov. 2025 - Ep. 102… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Nov 3, 2025 · 16 min
"Last Days" Director Justin Lin on the Making of the Film, Returning to his Indie Roots, & More
In this episode, we welcome Justin Lin. Justin is a producer and director with a resume that includes Better Luck Tomorrow, Fast & Furious, Star Trek Beyond, “True Detective,” “Magnum P.I.,” Annapolis, The Fast & the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Fast Five, Fast & Furious 6, F9: The Fast Saga, Fast X, and Last Days — his return to indie filmmaking. In our chat, he shares about his formative years, his pathway into directing, and the making of Last Days. He also offers practical recommendations for today’s up-and-coming independent filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. Shoot. Store. Secure. Smile. The OWC Guardian is a bus‑powered, portable NVMe SSD featuring 256‑bit AES OPAL hardware encryption and a color touch‑screen for intuitive, secure access. With up to 1,000 MB/s real‑world transfer speeds, platform‑agnostic operation (Mac, PC, iPad Pro), and a rugged anodized aluminum enclosure, it’s built to protect audit‑sensitive media and projects anytime, anywhere. Learn more here NDI November: NDI November is a month-long, free, virtual event series dedicated to exploring the power of NDI technology for modern live production. Throughout November 2025, we’ll bring together industry experts, vendors, dealers, and system integrators to deliver an in-depth look at NDI workflows and innovations shaping the future of IP-based production. Each session will feature live demos, real-world case studies, and practical workflow tips, along with dedicated deep dives into the past, present, and future of NDI technology. Attendees will learn how NDI can transform their productions—whether in broadcast, education, worship, corporate AV, or live events. Learn more here Meet Stream Deck Studio: Meet Stream Deck Studio, the ultimate control surface designed for professional broadcast and live production environments. Built on the iconic Elgato hardware and powered by Bitfocus software, it offers a hyper-customizable experience that simplifies even the most complex workflows. With compatibility across hundreds of devices from the industry’s top vendors, Stream Deck Studio gives you complete command over your production setup, making it easier than ever to create seamless, high-quality broadcasts. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to learn more and take your production control to the next level today! Learn more here American Film Market (AFM) Nov. 11-16, 2025 | Los Angeles AFM is the premier film acquisition, development and networking event where more than $1 Billion in distribution and film financing deals are closed each year on completed films and those in every stage of development. More business-oriented than any other motion picture event, thousands of professionals from all corners of our industry come together at AFM to develop, showcase, discover, finance and license 1000s of independent films and projects destined for the world’s audiences. Visit the site here Podcast Rewind: Oct 2025 - Ep. 101… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 29, 2025 · 38 min
"Good Boy" Director Ben Leonberg on Crafting the Horror Film, Working with a Canine, Distribution, & More
In this episode, we welcome Ben Leonberg. Ben wrote, produced and directed Good Boy, the new horror film now playing in theaters nationwide. In our chat, he shares about the inspiration and making of this unique supernatural thriller, what it was like working with his dog as the lead actor, and the technologies used to capture this story. Ben also provides insights into the film’s path to distribution, and offers practical advice for independent filmmakers everywhere. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. The Making Of “Halloween”: An Exclusive Evening with Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC Wednesday, Oct. 29 | Los Angeles Join us in-person for a conversation with legendary cinematographer Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC as he discusses his work on this landmark horror film! ZEISS Cinema Showroom | 5:00 - 8:00pm PDT Free tickets here Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Vimeo Chicago Event: Wednesday, Oct. 29 | Siskel Film Center A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-10:30pm Reception (complimentary drinks + bites) Free tickets here Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here Podcast Rewind: Oct. 2025 - Ep. 101… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, & content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 25, 2025 · 59 min
"Fight Club" Cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth ASC on his Career, Working with David Fincher, Shooting "Tron: Ares," & More
In this episode, we welcome two-time Oscar-nominated cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth, ASC. Jeff has shot films including Fight Club, One Hour Photo, The Social Network, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Hitchcock, Gone Girl, Being the Ricardos, and Tron: Ares. In our chat, Jeff shares his origin story, experiences working with David Fincher — and all about his latest movie, Tron: Ares. He also offers extensive insights and recommendations for today’s cinematographers and filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. TMO Presents… The Making Of “Halloween”: An Exclusive Evening with Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC Wed., Oct. 29 | Los Angeles Join us in-person for a conversation with legendary cinematographer Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC as he discusses his work on this landmark horror film! ZEISS Cinema Showroom | 5:00 - 8:00pm PDT Free Tickets here Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Vimeo Chicago Event: Wed., Oct. 29 • Siskel Film Center A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-10:30pm Reception (complimentary drinks + bites) Free tickets here Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here Podcast Rewind: Oct. 2025 - Ep. 100… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators every week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 15, 2025 · 49 min
"Die My Love" Cinematographer Seamus McGarvey ASC, BSC on Collaborating with Lynne Ramsay, Shooting on 35mm, & More
In this 100th episode, we welcome two-time Oscar nominated cinematographer Seamus McGarvey, ASC, BSC. Seamus has shot films including High Fidelity, The Hours, Atonement, The Soloist, We Need to Talk About Kevin, The Avengers, Anna Karenina, Fifty Shades of Grey, Nocturnal Animals, The Accountant, The Greatest Showman, and Die My Love. In our chat, Seamus shares his origin story, about his longtime collaboration with Lynne Ramsay, insights into shooting on 35mm, and about the making of Die My Love. He also offers recommendations for the next generation of creators. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. TMO Presents… The Making Of “Halloween”: An Exclusive Evening with Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC Wednesday, Oct. 29 | Los Angeles Join us in-person for a conversation with legendary cinematographer Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC as he discusses his work on the landmark horror film! ZEISS Cinema Showroom | 5:00 - 8:00pm PDT Free tickets available here Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here Vimeo NYC Event: Thursday, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould Theater A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites! Free Passes here Post|Production World NY 2025: We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass here Podcast Rewind: Oct 2025 - Ep. 99… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 7, 2025 · 36 min
"The Man in My Basement" Director Nadia Latif and Cinematographer Ula Pontikos, BSC on their TIFF standout film, starring Willem Dafoe
Image courtesy of Hulu. In this episode, we welcome Nadia Latif and Ula Pontikos, BSC. Nadia directed the new film, The Man in My Basement, starring Willem Dafoe — and Ula was the film’s cinematographer. Previously, Ula has shot projects including “Russian Doll,” “Three Women” and the upcoming “Blade Runner 2099” series. In our chat, they share about the making of this feature, their creative collaboration, and insights into color grading. The Man in My Basement is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Exclusive Deals for Filmmakers, Broadcast, & Content Creators: Explore all the discounts here Vimeo NYC Event: Thurs, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould Theater A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites! Free Passes here Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here Featured Trailer of the Week: Post|Production World NY 2025: We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass here Evolution Mallorca Film Festival Oct. 21-29, 2025 Filmmakers, experience the best of cinema at EMIFF 2025! Discover groundbreaking films, forge high-quality connections, and dive into exceptional industry events including Cinematography Focus, Innovation Focus, Acting Focus, and Producers Club. Join us in Mallorca—where creativity and networking meet beneath the Mediterranean skies! Learn more here Podcast Rewind: Sept 2025 - Ep. 98… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Sep 30, 2025 · 10 min
Ethan Hawke and Richard Linklater on “Blue Moon,” their Creative Collaboration, & More
In this episode, we welcome four-time Oscar-nominated writer, producer and actor Ethan Hawke and five-time Oscar-nominated writer, producer and director Richard Linklater. In our chat, we hear about the inspiration and making of their new film, Blue Moon, the ninth film they’ve collaborated on — as well as what’s at the heart of their longtime creative partnership. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converter AJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges. Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Screamfest Horror Film Festival 2025 Oct. 7–16 | Los Angeles Get ready to scream! The 25th annual Screamfest Horror Film Festival slashes into TCL Chinese 6 Theatres Oct. 7–16. Experience spine-chilling world premieres, shocking new genre films, and unforgettable frights on the big screen. Don’t miss the nation’s longest-running horror fest celebrating 25 years of fear! Tickets at Screamfestla.com Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here Vimeo NYC Event: Thursday, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould Theater A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites! Free passes here Podcast Rewind: Sept 2025 - Ep. 97… Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Sep 25, 2025 · 1 hr 15 min
"Becoming Led Zeppelin" Director and Producer on Making the Documentary, "American Epic," & More
In this episode, we welcome director Bernard MacMahon and producer Allison McGourty. This team brought us Becoming Led Zeppelin — the first documentary the legendary group has ever agreed to participate in. The film is currently streaming on Netflix and continues to be played at select theaters in the U.S. and around the world. In our chat, we hear about their path creating this doc, their creative back stories, and much more. Bernard and Allison also offer incredible insights for up-and-coming directors, about producing documentaries, and filmmaking in general. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Gear up: AJA just launched new tech Flexibility is everything in production, which is one of many reasons to check out AJA's newest products. IP25-R bridges SMPTE ST 2110 networks and 4K SDI/HDMI infrastructure, UDC-4K scales between HD and 4K/UltraHD, and BRIDGE LIVE 12G-4 provides a multi-channel UltraHD IP video workflow bridge for remote production, streaming, video contribution, and more. Learn more. Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Vimeo NYC Event: Thursday, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould Theater A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites! Free Passes here Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here STEADICAM VOLT 3 Experience Tour: Sunday, October 5 · 4-7pm ET | Keslow Camera Atlanta Join us for an exclusive hands-on demo of the brand-new STEADICAM® VOLT 3 – the next evolution in award-winning camera stabilization. Whether you're a seasoned Steadicam operator or exploring new tools for dynamic cinematography, this is your chance to experience first-hand how smarter stabilization can transform your workflow. Learn more here Post|Production World NY 2025: We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass here Podcast Rewind: Sept 2025 - Ep. 96… Advertise in “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Sep 22, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
"Megalopolis" Editor Glen Scantlebury, ACE on Collaborating with Coppola, Cutting "Dracula," "Armageddon," & More
In this episode, we welcome editor Glen Scantlebury, ACE. Glen has worked on a variety of influential films such as Megalopolis, Dracula, The Cotton Club, The Godfather Part III, Armageddon, Con Air, The Rock, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003), Friday the 13th (2009), A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010), Tropic Thunder, and Palo Alto. In our chat, we hear about his pathway to editing features, his role in pioneering digital editing workflows, collaborating with Francis Ford Coppola, and much more. Glen also offers the next generation of creators various insights and recommendations on editing and storytelling. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Gear up: AJA just launched new tech Flexibility is everything in production, which is one of many reasons to check out AJA's newest products. IP25-R bridges SMPTE ST 2110 networks and 4K SDI/HDMI infrastructure, UDC-4K scales between HD and 4K/UltraHD, and BRIDGE LIVE 12G-4 provides a multi-channel UltraHD IP video workflow bridge for remote production, streaming, video contribution, and more. Learn more. Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here The Art of Editing “Andor” with Yan Miles, ACE: OWC Takes Home Two Future’s Best of IBC2025 Show Awards: Both the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dual 10GbE Network Dock and OWC Jellyfish S24 Earn Coveted Honor at IBC Other World Computing announced its OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dual 10GbE Network Dock and its OWC Jellyfish S24 have both been awarded a Future’s Best of Show Award, presented at IBC2025 by TVBEurope. Read more here Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here Post|Production World NY 2025: We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass here Podcast Rewind: Sept 2025 - Ep. 95… Sponsor “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Sep 15, 2025 · 40 min
"The Long Walk" Cinematographer Jo Willems ASC, SBC on Making the Thriller, His Career Path, & More
In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Jo Willems, ASC, SBC. Jo has shot an impressive list of films including Hard Candy, 30 Days of Night, Limitless, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 and 2, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, Red Sparrow, His House, Finch, and The Long Walk. In our chat, he shares about the making of The Long Walk, adapted from a Stephen King novel. He speaks about all the filmmaking techniques employed to pull off this gritty, naturalistic story — and offers advice for the next generation of creators today. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Gear up: AJA just launched new tech Flexibility is everything in production, which is one of many reasons to check out AJA's newest products. IP25-R bridges SMPTE ST 2110 networks and 4K SDI/HDMI infrastructure, UDC-4K scales between HD and 4K/UltraHD, and BRIDGE LIVE 12G-4 provides a multi-channel UltraHD IP video workflow bridge for remote production, streaming, video contribution, and more. Learn more. Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Insights from Legendary TV Director Alan Taylor: Introducing Ninja TX: Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more here Post|Production World NY 2025: We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass here Newsletter Rewind: Sponsor “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Aug 21, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
"Scream" Cinematographer Mark Irwin CSC, ASC on Making Horror Films, "The Fly," "The Dead Zone," & More
In this episode, we welcome Mark Irwin, CSC, ASC. Mark is the cinematographer of many iconic films including Scream, The Brood, Scanners, Videodrome, The Fly, The Dead Zone, New Nightmare, Dumb and Dumber, There’s Something About Mary, Road Trip, and Old School. In our chat, we hear all about his early days in Canada, his filmmaking education, and his journey collaborating with directors David Cronenberg and Wes Craven. Mark also shares about making Scanners, The Fly, and Scream — and offers recommendations for up-and-coming cinematographers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: DIT Chris Bolton talks on-set live grading and routing In on-set production, precise, real-time color management and conversion and reliable routing are essential, which is why DIT Chris Bolton leverages AJA ColorBox and KUMO 3232-12G across projects. Read this interview to get his perspective on what makes a great DIT and to learn more about his live grading setup. Next-Gen DIY Storage, Unleashed The OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore here Insights from “Jaws” Production Designer Joe Alves: New Solutions from Videoguys: Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity. Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse here ZEISS Summer Savings Event: Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3. Visit here Podcast Rewind: Aug 2025 - Ep. 93… “The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky. Sponsor this newsletter and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. Please email us to learn more: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Aug 16, 2025 · 1 hr 23 min
Legendary Stuntman Buddy Joe Hooker on "The Outsiders," "First Blood," "To Live and Die in L.A.," & More
Photo by Phil Caruso. In this episode, we welcome Buddy Joe Hooker. Buddy Joe is a legendary Stuntman and Stunt Coordinator, with over sixty years working in the business. Some of the films he’s worked on include The Conversation, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, First Blood, The Outsiders, Rumble Fish, The Right Stuff, Scarface, To Live and Die in L.A., Days of Thunder, Carlito’s Way, From Dusk Till Dawn, Grosse Pointe Blank, Deja Vu, Grindhouse, Django Unchained, and Megalopolis. In our chat, he shares about his early days, how he learned all his skill-sets — and stories from performing stunts in motorcycles, cars, trucks, fight scenes, and beyond. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: DIT Chris Bolton talks on-set live grading and routing In on-set production, precise, real-time color management and conversion and reliable routing are essential, which is why DIT Chris Bolton leverages AJA ColorBox and KUMO 3232-12G across projects. Read this interview to get his perspective on what makes a great DIT and to learn more about his live grading setup. Next-Gen Connectivity for Demanding Workflows The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock delivers cutting-edge performance with Thunderbolt 5 ports that offer up to 2x more bandwidth than previous generations. Perfect for post-production pros, it powers up to 3 high-res displays, ultra-fast storage, and pro accessories simultaneously. With 2.5Gb Ethernet and a full array of essential ports, it's your all-in-one hub for high-performance creative workflows. Explore here Insights from Giovanni Ribisi: HED: Bring Filmmaking to Your Classroom with LUMIX EDU DEK: Discover how LUMIX EDU can support your school’s video production goals with camera loaners, curriculum resources, and hands-on training. Learn more and get involved here ZEISS Summer Savings Event: Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3. Visit here New Solutions from Videoguys: Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity. Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse here Featured Film Book: KISS ME QUICK BEFORE I SHOOT This film memoir is all about the magic of filmmaking and forging a cinematic personal life in Hollywood. It is full of invaluable experiences and unique industry stories of a celebrated film/TV career, and should be required reading for every film lover. It includes stories of a producer turning out to be the assassin of the Mafia boss who allowed The Godfather to film in NY; to shooting the pyramids of Egypt for Battlestar Galactica; to directing a grumbling Mr. T on The A-Team; to almost decapitating a young Drew Barrymore right after ET; and to unwittingly almost delaying James Cameron’s early career!“Finally, a book for all who love the movies written by a filmmaker who has walked the walk in TV and film. A very entertaining journey of fascinating industry stories providing a true look behind the curtain of filmmaking.”JOE ALVES, Production Designer JAWS, British Academy Award for CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND Pickup a copy at KISS ME QUICK BEFORE I SHOOT Kindle Ebook Amazon Podcast Rewind: August 2025 - Ep. 92… “The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky. Promote your products or services in this newsletter and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. Email us at: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Aug 6, 2025 · 54 min
"Jaws" Production Designer Joe Alves on his Career, "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "Escape from New York," & More
In this episode, we welcome Oscar-nominated Production Designer Joe Alves. Joe made history for his work on Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Jaws 2, and Escape from New York. In our chat, he shares on his career working alongside masters such as Walt Disney, Alfred Hitchcock, Rod Serling, Steven Spielberg, and John Carpenter. He talks about starting out as a young Art Director, working as a Production Designer, and other hats he wore. Joe also offers advice on the business, breaking down a script — and other insights from a life in the industry. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: DIT Chris Bolton talks on-set live grading and routing In on-set production, precise, real-time color management and conversion and reliable routing are essential, which is why DIT Chris Bolton leverages AJA ColorBox and KUMO 3232-12G across projects. Read this interview to get his perspective on what makes a great DIT and to learn more about his live grading setup. Next-Gen Connectivity for Demanding Workflows The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock delivers cutting-edge performance with Thunderbolt 5 ports that offer up to 2x more bandwidth than previous generations. Perfect for post-production pros, it powers up to 3 high-res displays, ultra-fast storage, and pro accessories simultaneously. With 2.5Gb Ethernet and a full array of essential ports, it's your all-in-one hub for high-performance creative workflows. Explore here Inspiration from Embeth Davidtz: Featured Documentary Project: In 1990, environmental engineer Hugo Martínez Cazón discovered the last standing factory of the Lumière Brothers’, which had been lost to history for almost a century. This short documentary follows his journey of mystery and discovery, while uncovering the birthplace of color photography in America — and a forgotten landmark of early cinematic history. Learn more here ZEISS Summer Savings Event: Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3. Explore here New Solutions from Videoguys: Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity. Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse here Podcast Rewind: July 2025 - Ep. 91… “The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky. Advertise in this newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, & content creators each week. For more information, email: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Jul 25, 2025 · 18 min
In-Camera Visual FX Leader Eric Hasso on Virtual Production Workflows, Plates, & More
In this episode, we welcome back Eric Hasso. Eric is a modern-day master in the art of In-Camera Visual FX, used in both film and TV production. In our conversation, he shares all about his latest projects, recent developments in his workflow and technologies — and other insights into his craft. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter Configurations Ideal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJA DRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus. Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready. The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility. Browse here HED: Bring Filmmaking to Your Classroom with LUMIX EDU DEK: Discover how LUMIX EDU can support your school’s video production goals with camera loaners, curriculum resources, and hands-on training. Learn more and get involved here ZEISS Summer Savings Event Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3. Explore here New Solutions from Videoguys: Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity. Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse here Podcast Rewind: July 2025 - Ep. 90… “The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky. To advertise your products or services to 228K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter, send an email to: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Jul 17, 2025 · 43 min
Director Jay Holben on Filmmaking Essentials, the State of the Industry, his New Book, & More
In this episode, we welcome back Jay Holben. Jay is a director, producer, educator and author of many essential filmmaking books. In our chat, we hear about his new book, The Director’s Guide to Everything — as well as his thoughts on where the industry is at now, and about new technologies that he finds interesting. Jay also offers useful advice for students, younger filmmakers, and other creatives persevering through these challenging times. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter Configurations Ideal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJA DRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus. Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready. The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility. Browse here Featured Book: The Director’s Guide to Everything is the ultimate road map for mastering the craft. More than just a guide — it’s a masterclass in how to turn your vision into reality. The Director’s Guide delivers a comprehensive, no-nonsense education in the art and science of directing — with practical knowledge drawn from decades of experience in the trenches of motion picture production. www.adakinpress.com Get your copy here ZEISS Summer Savings Event Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3. Browse here New Solutions from Videoguys: The SanDisk Professional G-RAID PROJECT 2 is a powerhouse 2-bay storage system built for serious creators. Pre-configured in RAID 0 and featuring Thunderbolt™ 3 connectivity, it delivers the speed and capacity you need for demanding 4K, 8K, and VR video workflows—up to a massive 52TB. With a PRO-BLADE™ SSD Mag slot for ultra-fast offloads and edits, it's the perfect solution for high-performance production environments. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to for free tech advice and to learn more! Visit here Podcast Rewind: July 2025 - Ep. 89… “The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky. Advertise your products or services to over 215K filmmakers, TV production pros, studios, & content creators reading this newsletter… email us: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Jul 10, 2025 · 38 min
Embeth Davidtz on "Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight," Crafting her Directorial Debut, Lessons from Spielberg, & More
In this episode, we welcome Embeth Davidtz. Embeth has her directorial debut, Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight, hitting theaters nationwide this week. A veteran actor, she is known for roles in Schindler’s List, Army of Darkness, Matilda, Fallen, Mansfield Park, Bridget Jones’ Diary, Junebug, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Amazing Spider-Man, “Mad Men,” “Ray Donovan,” and “The Morning Show”. In our chat, she shares her backstory, stories from working with Spielberg — and all about her new film which she wrote, directed and starred in. Embeth also offers invaluable advice for actors and filmmakers working today. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter Configurations Ideal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJA DRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus. Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready. The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility. Browse here ZEISS Summer Savings Event Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3. Browse here New Solutions from Videoguys: The SanDisk Professional G-RAID PROJECT 2 is a powerhouse 2-bay storage system built for serious creators. Pre-configured in RAID 0 and featuring Thunderbolt™ 3 connectivity, it delivers the speed and capacity you need for demanding 4K, 8K, and VR video workflows—up to a massive 52TB. With a PRO-BLADE™ SSD Mag slot for ultra-fast offloads and edits, it's the perfect solution for high-performance production environments. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to for free tech advice and to learn more! Visit here Podcast Rewind: July 2025 - Ep. 89… “The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky. Advertise your products or services to 205,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter — contact us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
Jul 1, 2025 · 43 min
"Mission: Impossible" Aerial Cinematography Team on Filming for the Franchise, Collaborating with Cruise, & More
In this episode, we welcome Phil Arntz and Will Banks. Phil is an Aerial Director of Photography and Will a top Camera Pilot. This filmmaking team has worked on a range of projects including F1: The Movie, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, The Gorge, Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, “The Agency: Central Intelligence,” “The Day of the Jackal” and “The Diplomat”. In our chat, they share their back stories, how they learned their skill-sets, and about working on the latest Mission: Impossible. They also talk about their unique collaboration — and reveal some of the tools, technologies and techniques used to capture these iconic shots. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter Configurations Ideal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJA DRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus. Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready. The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility. Browse here Featured Book: The Horror Movie Report Blumhouse calls The Horror Movie Report, “the ultimate guide to every horror movie ever made” and that it “helped us shape how we think about horror”. Get under the skin of over 27,000 horror movies with the most detailed data-led insights ever compiled at HorrorMovieReport.com Read more here The new ZEISS Otus ML: Now on sale, the Otus ML 1.4/50mm photography lens from ZEISS is the new generation of high-quality optics for your photographic art. Find it at your favorite photo retailer! Learn more here New Solutions from Videoguys: The SanDisk Professional G-RAID PROJECT 2 is a powerhouse 2-bay storage system built for serious creators. Pre-configured in RAID 0 and featuring Thunderbolt™ 3 connectivity, it delivers the speed and capacity you need for demanding 4K, 8K, and VR video workflows—up to a massive 52TB. With a PRO-BLADE™ SSD Mag slot for ultra-fast offloads and edits, it's the perfect solution for high-performance production environments. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to for free tech advice and to learn more! Browse here Podcast Rewind: June 2025 - Ep. 88… “The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky. Advertise your products or services to 202,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter — contact us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe