Épisodes

  • If I Had Legs I'd Kick You

    If I Had Legs I'd Kick You
    Feb 24 2026
    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

    In this episode of the Film Department podcast our hosts discuss the intense film IF I HAD LEGS I'D KICK YOU, directed by Mary Bronstein. They explore the film's themes of motherhood, mental health, and the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the character of Linda, played by Rose Byrne. The conversation delves into the film's emotional impact, character dynamics, and the significance of its ending and title.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction
    01:01 Exploring IIHLIKY
    09:16 Themes of Motherhood and Mental Health
    16:15 Character Analysis of Linda and Her Relationships
    22:54 The Significance of the Ending and Title
    25:58 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

    Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

    Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

    Credits:

    HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

    PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
    PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
    EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

    PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

    SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

    KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

    EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

    For The Beverly:
    Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
    Alexi Harber, General Manager
    Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

    To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:
    https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

    Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

    For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

    At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

    Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story
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    31 min
  • The Short Film Masterclass with Sundance Programmer Mike Plante

    The Short Film Masterclass with Sundance Programmer Mike Plante
    Dec 3 2025
    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

    In this episode, our hosts met with Mike Plante, producer and senior programmer for Sundance Film Festival, discussing the journey of short films from creation to submission at festivals like Sundance. They explore the importance of choosing the right stories, common pitfalls in filmmaking, and the various avenues available for filmmakers to showcase their work.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction
    03:20 Mike Plante's Journey in Film
    06:14 The Sundance Film Festival Experience
    08:58 Submitting Short Films to Sundance
    11:32 Common Mistakes in Short Film Submissions
    14:25 Distribution Avenues for Short Films
    17:12 Advice for New Filmmakers
    19:55 Networking and Opportunities in Film Festivals

    Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

    Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

    Credits:

    HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

    PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
    PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
    EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

    PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

    SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

    KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

    EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

    For The Beverly:
    Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
    Alexi Harber, General Manager
    Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

    To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:
    https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

    Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

    For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

    At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

    Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story
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    29 min
  • The Power of Diversity in Filmmaking w/ Hisonni Mustafa

    The Power of Diversity in Filmmaking w/ Hisonni Mustafa
    Nov 19 2025
    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

    In this class our hosts had the opportunity to speak with Emmy Winner, Tyler Perry Dreamers Fellow and UNLV Film student Hisonni Mustafa about the significance of diversity programs for emerging filmmakers. These include the Commercial Directors Diversity Program, the Tyler Perry Dreamers Collective, the Veterans Writers Project, Rideback Rise and more!

    Interested in any of these programs? Follow the links provided below:

    Commercial Directors Diversity Program: https://www.cddprogram.org/
    Tyler Perry Dreamers Collective: https://tylerperrystudiosdreamcollective.com/
    Veterans Writers Project: https://www.wgfoundation.org/programs/the-veterans-writing-project
    Rideback Rise: https://www.ridebackrise.org/

    Key Figures mentioned:
    Paul Redford, Writer https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0714864/
    Mary Lou Belli, Director https://www.amazon.com/Directors-Tell-Story-Bethany-Rooney/dp/1138948470

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Filmmaking Journey
    01:04 Early Inspirations and Filmmaking Beginnings
    09:20 The Evolution of Perspective in Filmmaking
    17:36 Development Programs and their Impact
    25:20 The Importance of Community and Mentorship
    30:12 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

    Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

    Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

    Credits:

    HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

    PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
    PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
    EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

    PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

    SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

    KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

    EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

    For The Beverly:
    Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
    Alexi Harber, General Manager
    Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

    To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:
    https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

    Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

    For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

    At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

    Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.
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    32 min
  • Collaboration and Adaptation on 'Margaret the Brave' with Filmmaker Danny Chandia

    Collaboration and Adaptation on 'Margaret the Brave' with Filmmaker Danny Chandia
    Nov 11 2025
    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

    In today's class, our hosts chat with Danny Chandia, local Las Vegas filmmaker, writer and director of MARGARET THE BRAVE and co-founder of Desert Cactus Films. They delve into Chandia's complex feelings about Las Vegas and presenting his upcoming project as a "Love letter to Las Vegas" that explores the local culture and community beyond the typical tourist attractions.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Danny Chandia and MARGARET THE BRAVE
    01:03 Danny's Journey into Filmmaking
    05:29 The Creative Process Behind MTB
    10:54 Exploring Themes of Family and Personal Experience
    19:21 The Festival Circuit and Future Projects

    Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

    Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

    Credits:

    HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

    PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
    PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
    EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

    PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

    SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

    KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

    EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

    For The Beverly:
    Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
    Alexi Harber, General Manager
    Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

    To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:
    https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

    Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

    For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

    At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

    Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    31 min
  • 100 Years of Horror, Music, and Mystery w/ THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

    100 Years of Horror, Music, and Mystery w/ THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
    Oct 29 2025
    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Podcast!

    To celebrate the 100th year anniversary of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (1925), and to get into the Halloween season spirit, our hosts spent this class session discussing several iterations of the Phantom of the Opera.

    They discuss the symbolism of masks, revenge, and more in this episode in thanks to our partner movie house The Beverly Theater!

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to The Phantom of the Opera
    3:13 Comparing Phantom Adaptations
    6:17 The Evolution of the Phantom's Character
    10:05 Acting in Silent Films vs. Modern Adaptations
    11:30 The Role of Music in Storytelling
    14:05 The Reveal Scene: Impact and Interpretation
    18:14 The Symbolism of Masks and Identity
    23:03 The Midpoint and Stakes in the Story
    26:00 Revenge and Consequences in Different Versions
    29:31 Final Thoughts

    Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

    Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

    Credits:

    HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

    PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
    PRODUCERS - Vance Mellen, Theresa Twa
    EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

    PRODUCTION COORDINATORS- Isa Privetera, Tatyana Odobasic-Cuevas

    SOUND CREW - Brandon Aguilar, Hunter Cole, Marcie Gentile

    KEY GRIP- William Stanfield

    EDITORS - Molly Bilbray-Axelrod, Asher Garduno

    For The Beverly:
    Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
    Alexi Harber, General Manager
    Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

    To read the hosts' reviews, head over to:
    https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

    Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

    For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

    At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

    Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    30 min
  • Stalking Truth & Ambiguity w/ Luca Guadagnino's AFTER THE HUNT

    Stalking Truth & Ambiguity w/ Luca Guadagnino's AFTER THE HUNT
    Oct 14 2025
    Welcome back to The Film Dept. Pencils up everyone!

    In this class, we delve into Luca Guadagnino's film AFTER THE HUNT, exploring its themes of truth, character complexity, and the impact of its cinematography and music.

    Our hosts, alongside Professor Mona Nahm, discuss the film's ambiguity and how it reflects modern cultural issues, encouraging listeners to engage in discussions about personal truths and perspectives.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to the Film Department Podcast
    01:10 Spoiler-Free Review of 'After the Hunt'
    02:25 Comparing 'After the Hunt' and 'Challengers'
    04:33 Character Complexity and Ambiguity
    06:47 Exploring Personal Truths in the Film
    09:05 The Role of Music and Sound Design
    11:24 Visual Storytelling and Cinematic Techniques
    13:38 Themes of Truth and Deception
    16:26 Philosophical Reflections and Takeaways
    19:34 Character Analysis and Performance Highlights
    22:26 The Significance of the Apartment's Design
    26:42 The Title's Meaning and Implications

    Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts:
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn

    Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

    Credits:

    HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

    PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
    EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

    For The Beverly:
    Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
    Alexi Harber, General Manager
    Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

    To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

    Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

    For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

    At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

    Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    35 min
  • "How to Shoot a Successful 48 w/Edwin Ramirez"

    "How to Shoot a Successful 48 w/Edwin Ramirez"
    Oct 8 2025
    Welcome to TFD 301 - Film Podcasts for Everyone. Class is now in session!In this class our new hosts Lex, Matthew and Robby interview UNLV Film alum Edwin Ramirez ('24) whose 48 Hour Film Project - Las Vegas film THERE'S SOMETHING IN THE WATER won First Place: Best Film of 2025.Edwin shares his insider's knowledge for shooting a successful 48 Hour competition project as UNLV Film enters its own 48 this weekend (October 10-12)TakeawaysPreparation is key for a successful 48-hour film.Finding unique locations can enhance production value.Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process.A well-written script is crucial, even in a short timeframe.Collaboration with a trusted crew can improve the final product.Editing during filming can save time and improve quality.Incorporating prompts creatively can enhance storytelling.Maintaining a positive atmosphere on set is essential.Feeding the crew is important for morale and productivity.Having fun is the ultimate goal of the 48-hour challenge.SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Edwin Ramirez shares his experiences and insights from participating in the 48-hour film festival. He discusses the importance of preparation, the writing process, and the challenges faced during filming. Edwin emphasizes the significance of collaboration with a trusted crew and the need for a well-written script, even in a short timeframe. He also highlights the themes and messages in his award-winning film, 'There's Something in the Water,' and offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers.Sound bites"Preparation is key for a successful 48-hour film.""Finding unique locations can enhance production value.""Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup01:06 Edwin's Background and 48-Hour Film Experience05:48 Preparation for the 48-Hour Film Challenge10:31 Writing and Shooting Process15:17 Catering and Crew Management19:56 Technical Aspects and Visuals of the Film24:43 Themes and Messages in the Film29:46 The Creative Process: Embracing Procrastination30:21 Advice for the UNLV 48: Preparation and Casting31:12 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey31:28 Looking Forward: Anticipation for Future Projects32:17 Podcast Structure: Setting the Stage for Future Episodes34:31 Reflections on the Conversation: Insights and Takeaways38:48 Final Thoughts: Wrapping Up the EpisodeWatch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts PodcastsCredits:Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby BakerPRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam DeckerEXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand For The Beverly:Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience OfficerAlexi Harber, General ManagerIvy Ergunes, Marketing ManagerTo read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.
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    35 min
  • THE LONG WALK *Pre-Season Special* with Nic and David Rosen of Piecing it Together

    THE LONG WALK *Pre-Season Special* with Nic and David Rosen of Piecing it Together
    Sep 8 2025
    In a special pre-season episode of TFD, we're joined by one of last season's co-hosts, Nic Patrick and returning collaborator David Rosen of Piecing it Together Podcast
    for a review of THE LONG WALK, written by J.T. Mollner and Directed by Francis Lawrence.

    Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts

    Credits:

    Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

    HOSTS - Nic Patrick, David Rosen

    PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
    EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

    For The Beverly:
    Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
    Alexi Harber, General Manager
    Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

    To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: substack.com/thefilmdeptpodcast

    This semester, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

    For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

    At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.

    Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    32 min