E78 • The Power of Containment • MADS MENGEL, dir. of ‘The Guest‘, Special Jury + Best Director WINNER at Karlovy Vary

Danish filmmaker Mads Mengel joins Past Present Feature just before his world premiere of The Guest in the Crystal Globe Competition at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. Since this recording, The Guest has gone on to win the festival's Special Jury Prize, while Mengel received the Best Director Award. We discuss how the film grew from a simple question into an intimate family drama shaped by years of writing, collaboration, and refinement.Along the way, we explore contained storytelling, the Danish filmmaking model, building a visual language around performance rather than coverage, and why practical limitations often lead to stronger creative decisions. Mads also reflects on the films and filmmakers that shaped his love of cinema, including Magnolia, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, The Lord of the Rings, 12 Angry Men, and The Conversation.At its core, our conversation is about making more with less, trusting the people around you, and discovering that limitations often become your greatest creative advantage.What Movies Are You Watching?Introducing the Past Present Feature Film Festival, a new showcase celebrating cinematic storytelling across time. From bold proof of concept shorts to stand out new films lighting up the circuit, to overlooked features that deserve another look. Sponsored by the Past Present Feature podcast and Leica Camera. Submit now at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. Support the showListen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeatureThe Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature