PODCAST · arts
Cinematic Alchemy
by Srishti Chhabria & Amber Payne
Welcome to Cinematic Alchemy, the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of transforming ideas from page to screen. Join me, Srishti Chhabria and my co-host, Amber Payne, as we unravel the mysteries of video production, sharing the gritty, honest insights we've gathered from years in the industry. Whether you're an entrepreneurial spirit or just curious about what goes on behind the camera, we're here to demystify the process and equip you with the knowledge to create visual masterpieces. We can’t wait for you to join us on this exciting journey!Produced and Hosted by Srishti Chhabria & Amber Payne.Music by Samuel GR MorganArtwork by Ellie Costello
Episodes
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One Year, 50 Episodes: What We’ve Learned Along the Way
We’ve hit 50 episodes, and exactly one year since the podcast launched. This episode is a bit of a heart to heart. No guests, no case studies, just us reflecting on the wild ride of building this show, growing our careers, and learning (a lot) along the way. We talk about how the podcast helped…
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Telling a story in 5 to 10 seconds? We’ve got this
In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of our latest project. We explain what an ident is (those quick sponsor clips before a TV show), why they’re harder to make than they look, and how we managed to tell a mini story in just five to ten seconds. This was also our first time working...
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Don't Let Him In: Behind the Book Trailer
In this episode, we’re diving into the behind-the-scenes of creating promotional book trailers for Lisa Jewell’s Don’t Let Him In. We share how our team turned this gripping crime thriller into cinematic teasers without giving away any spoilers, and the unexpected production challenges we faced -...
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The Art of Short Form Filmmaking with Harry Norton - Part 2
This week on the podcast, we’re continuing our deep dive into short form filmmaking with Harry Norton. We talk about the emotional themes, the early writing process, and what it’s like to move from a loose idea to a fully developed pre-production phase. We also touch on how daunting it can be to...
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The Art of Short Form Filmmaking with Harry Norton
This week, we’re talking about short form filmmaking with returning guest Harry Norton. From micro shorts to five-minute narratives, we explore what makes these projects both uniquely difficult and completely essential for honing your craft. We talk about why short films are their own distinct...
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Mise en Scène: Crafting Visual Storytelling Through Set Design and Details
In this episode, we dive into something we both love talking about mise en scène - the mood, the energy, the intention behind what we see on screen. If you’ve ever wondered how filmmakers create a world that just feels right - this is the episode for you. We explore how visuals tell their own...
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Leadership in Creative Projects
We’re back for part two of our deep dive into the softer (but no less vital) side of filmmaking - leadership, management, and all things organisation. If you’ve ever wondered how to strike the balance between managing a project and becoming that micromanager, this one’s for you. We unpack how...
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Communication, Collaboration, and Creative Leadership: Navigating the Human Side of Filmmaking
Ever found yourself in a creative project thinking, “Wait, why is this so chaotic?” You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into the behind-the-scenes magic that makes film projects actually function - communication, organisation, leadership, and yes, those so-called “soft skills”. We chat…
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Millan's Journey Through Humanitarian Storytelling
This week, we’re chatting with Millan, the writer and director of Nothing But Blue, a powerful short film. Millan takes us behind the scenes of his emotionally gripping story about two Jewish people hiding during the Holocaust, told in a beautifully subtle way that focuses on humanity and hope...
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John Parr's Journey Through Film, Music, and Storytelling
In this episode, we’re joined by composer and filmmaker John Parr for a heartfelt conversation about storytelling, music, and representation in film. John shares the inspiration behind his latest project Pack of Five, which brings the story of Welsh poet Hedd Wyn to life through powerful visuals...
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When Adaptations Get It Right (and Really, Really Wrong)
In this episode, we're diving into the magical - and often chaotic - world of book-to-screen adaptations. From the faithful beauty of The Lord of the Rings to the… loosely inspired World War Z, we’re breaking down what makes an adaptation shine or flop. We also touch on video game adaptations…
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Diversification in Casting
Let’s talk about diversity in casting - beyond the tick boxes and token roles. In this episode, we get into what real representation actually looks like in film and TV, why it matters for storytelling, and how authenticity changes everything. From Bridgerton to Hamilton to the backlash around…
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Casting Realities & Industry Safety
In this week’s episode, Amber and I continue our no-fluff chat about casting - what’s working, what still needs work, and the invisible stuff no one tells you about until you're in it. We’re talking about the emotional toll of rejection, the rise of intimacy coordinators post-Me Too, and why...
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The Art of Casting
In this episode, we are pulling back the curtain on the casting process - warts, wonders, awkward self-tapes, and all. From open casting calls that start at 4am to the power of a well-timed chemistry read, we’re sharing what we’ve learned from sitting on both sides of the table: actor and…
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The Art of Practical Effects in Cinema
In this nostalgic-meets-nerdy episode, we go all in on one of our favourite filmmaking obsessions: practical effects. From the animatronic shark in Jaws to painted backdrops, set illusions, and that iconic roller-skating moment from Chaplin - we explore how filmmakers have been bending reality…
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Physical Storytelling with Robin Hellier
Ever wondered how actors make stage fights look so real without actually getting hurt? In this episode, we chat with fight and intimacy director Robin Hellier, who pulls back the curtain on what really goes into choreographing physical storytelling. Robin breaks down how character, story, safety,...
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Legend: New Zealand's Anti-Drink Driving Ad
What happens when the police stop using scare tactics and start using humour? In this episode, we break down New Zealand’s “Legend” campaign, an anti-drink driving ad that ditched the doom and gloom for Kiwi comedy - and actually worked. The ad took a fresh approach by leaning into relatability,...
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Digital Necromancy: Marilyn Monroe, Willem Dafoe, and the Snickers Super Bowl Ad
In this week’s episode, we break down the infamous Snickers Super Bowl commercial that digitally resurrected Marilyn Monroe - except this time, she’s hangry and played by Willem Dafoe. It’s a bold, bizarre, and undeniably memorable ad, but does it cross the ethical line of “digital necromancy”?…
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The Academy Awards
The Oscars are more than just a night of glitz and glamour—they’re a reflection of the ever-evolving film industry. In this episode, we unpack the highlights of the 97th Academy Awards, from surprise wins to historic moments. With ITV hosting for UK audiences and Jonathan Ross adding his own…
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Breaking Down Hindustan Unilever’s "The Shower"
What makes a great social awareness campaign actually work? In this episode, we break down Hindustan Unilever’s award-winning short film, "The Shower", the first advertisement to win a National Film Award in India. Through stunning visuals and powerful storytelling, this film highlights water...
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Breaking Bad: Super Bowl 2023 Ad
What happens when one of the most iconic TV shows of all time gets turned into a Super Bowl ad? In this episode, we break down the Breaking Bad x PopCorners commercial, featuring Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, and Raymond Cruz, all under the direction of Vince Gilligan himself. But does it work as…
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La La Land & The Art of Subverting Genre: A Valentine’s Day Special
La La Land is one of those films that looks like a classic romance on the surface-but then flips everything you expect on its head. In this episode, Amber is back and we’re unpacking what makes this movie so visually stunning, emotionally charged, and genre-bending. From its vibrant old-Hollywood...
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Life is Short
What makes an ad unforgettable? In this episode, we break down the brilliance of Life is Short, a HBO commercial featuring the legendary James Gandolfini channeling his iconic Tony Soprano energy. With dark humour, masterful cinematography, and an ironic life-insurance message, this ad blurs the...
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Thrill Driver: Nissan's Super Bowl Ad Masterclass
What happens when you put a comedic legend like Eugene Levy in the driver’s seat of a high-octane action film? In this episode, we dissect Nissan’s thrilling Super Bowl ad, Thrill Driver, starring Levy and a powerhouse cast including Catherine O’Hara, Dave Bautista, and Brie Larson. We break down...
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Analysing the Alexa Super Bowl Commercial: Star Power, Production Value, and the Pursuit of Memorable Advertising with Baltasar Cuellar
What makes an ad iconic—or forgettable? In this episode, Baltasar Cuellar joins me to break down Amazon’s “Alexa Lost Her Voice” Super Bowl commercial. We explore the impact of its star-studded cast, the production value, and whether playing it safe was a missed opportunity. From Gordon Ramsay to...
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Composing the Cinematic Soundscape with Eleanor Fineston-Robertson
Ever wondered what it takes to create music that shapes a story? In this episode, I’m joined by Eleanor Fineston-Robertson, a London-based composer and sound designer, to uncover the magic behind film scores. From evoking nostalgia with piano to building suspense with brass, Eleanor shares how…
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Bringing Characters to Life with Anne Thompson
In this episode, we chat with costume maker Anne Thomson, fondly known in the industry as Bam, about her incredible career crafting costumes for theatre and film. From period dramas to superhero suits, Anne shares what it’s like to turn 2D designs into wearable art while juggling tight deadlines...
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Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success in Filmmaking with Harry Norton
In this episode, we’re joined by filmmaker Harry Norton for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of his short film Under Heavy Lead. From writing and directing to taking on unexpected production roles, Harry shares the realities of bringing his ambitious Gulf War-inspired story to...
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Navigating the Tides of Freelance Production with Amie Paige
In this episode, we sit down with the brilliant Amie Page, a freelance production assistant and producer, as we peel back the curtain on creating a standout marketing campaign for None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell. From balancing client visions with budgets and priorities to perfecting the...
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Exploring the Role of the First Assistant Director with Harry Norton
In this episode, we’re joined by Harry Norton, first assistant director, filmmaker, and Dungeons and Dragons enthusiast, as he shares what it really takes to keep a film set running smoothly. Harry breaks down the role of a first AD — from juggling logistics, team coordination, and time…
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Christmas Special
In this episode, we unravel the magic behind Waitrose’s “Sweet Suspicion” Christmas campaign, exploring how it masterfully combined mystery, humour, and a star-studded cast to captivate audiences. With iconic tropes from the crime genre and a clever episodic format, this ad campaign made holiday...
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A Conversation with Script Supervisor Thomas Bickley
This episode takes you behind the scenes of filmmaking with Thomas Bickley, a freelance script supervisor who's worked with everyone from the BBC to Disney. We chat about the intricacies of script supervision, from ensuring continuity to being the “second brain” for directors and editors. Thomas...
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A Deep Dive into the World of Sitcoms
Sitcoms have a special place in our hearts for their mix of relatable situations and laugh-out-loud moments. In this episode, we break down what makes a sitcom a sitcom—from its early roots in the golden age of television to its ongoing evolution as a storytelling format. But it’s not just about...
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The Art of Colour: A Cinematic Journey with Khalif Sultan
In this episode, we sit down with Khalif Sultan, a film colourist with a unique approach to visual storytelling. Khalif opens up about the fascinating, often overlooked world of colour grading in film, sharing insights on how colour can shape emotions, direct audience focus, and even hint at…
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An Insider's Perspective on Production Management with Tripti Rai
In this episode, we’re joined by Tripti Rai, who’s here to pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to work behind the scenes in film production. We laugh about some of the unexpected moments on set and chat about the surprising ways each role can change depending on the day. Tripti…
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Halloween Special: All Things Horror with Sydonie Calvert
In this Halloween special of Cinematic Alchemy, we’re joined by Syd for a deep dive into all things spooky! Syd shares their journey into horror, from the first movie that hooked them to why they’re drawn to the genre’s mix of suspense, thrill, and catharsis. We also chat about the appeal of…
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Bringing Anime to Life: The Magic Behind My Hero Academia's Live-Action Masterpiece
In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we’re diving into an amazing live-action version of My Hero Academia made by a talented group of stunt performers. They’ve managed to bring the fast, action-packed style of the anime to life with clever editing and incredible fight choreography. We’ll talk...
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Iconic Characters and Clever Marketing: The Brian Cox ASICs Ad Breakdown With Nick Peter Yee
In this episode, I’m excited to have guest host Nick Peter Yee join me as we unpack the clever advertising strategy behind the recent ASICs ad featuring the legendary Brian Cox. We explore how the ad cleverly leverages character iconography to engage viewers and spark a conversation about the art...
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Behind the Lens: Crafting Visual Stories in Music Videos
In this episode, we’re talking all things music videos! We discuss the behind the scenes of creating music videos, from the challenges of directing a first music video to exploring the creative freedom that comes with this art form, we cover it all. We also break down the unique visual…
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Remembering Maggie Smith: Legacy, Period Dramas, and Filmmaking Insights with Adam Howe
In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we have the absolute pleasure of chatting with Adam Howe as we pay tribute to the legendary Dame Maggie Smith. From her iconic portrayal in Downton Abbey to her lesser-known yet equally powerful roles like The Secret Garden, Adam takes us through his personal...
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Scripts, Storytelling, and Surviving Pig Farms: A Chat with Sydonie Calvert
Sorry about the audio quality on this one! As is sometimes the case with remote interviews, the quality can be hit or miss. But we didn't want you to miss out on this fantastic and insightful conversation with our talented guest! In this episode, we sit down with the brilliant Sydonie Calvert....
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Creative Balance: Patience, Projects, and Avoiding Burnout with Dani Blue
In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we sit down with Dani Blue, an actor and facilitator juggling multiple creative roles. We talk about the reality of balancing passion projects with practical jobs, and how patience plays a huge role in creative careers. Dani shares insightful tips on staying...
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Mastering Time Management: Balancing Creative Projects and Day Jobs
In this episode, we talk about the all-important topic of time management for creatives. We explore how balancing a day job with passion projects is crucial, especially in an industry where the lines between work and creativity can blur. From setting realistic goals to learning when to say no, we...
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Crafting Impactful Films: A Talk With Simon Howlett
In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Simon Howlett, Director of Festivals at Carmarthen Bay Film Festival, as our special guest. We chat about the magic of independent filmmaking, the power of authentic storytelling, and why sometimes stepping away from the mainstream can open up new…
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Embracing Growth: Creative Evolution in Filmmaking
In this episode, we explore the art of self-improvement in filmmaking and why it’s so crucial for creatives to keep growing. We talk about the importance of learning new skills, handling constructive criticism, and finding the joy in those unexpected moments when things go wrong. We also share...
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Empathy and Industry: A Conversation with Nicholas Peter Yee
In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we sit down with our good friend Nick, who’s been making his mark in film production and development. Nick shares his journey from production coordinator to his current role at Film London, giving us an honest look at what it’s really like behind the scenes.…
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Behind the Scenes: The Magic of Post-Production with Alicia Stroud
Welcome back, listeners! In today’s episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we’re joined by the talented Alicia Stroud, who shares her fascinating journey through the world of post-production and film editing. Alicia dives into the intricacies of being a digital image technician and how her competitive...
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Panda Cheese: The Art of Simple, Viral Advertising
Today we're exploring the hilarious and memorable Panda Cheese ad campaign from Egypt. Srishti and Amber reminisce about how these simple yet brilliantly executed commercials captivated audiences worldwide. We break down why the absurdity of a giant panda wreaking havoc over cheese is so…
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Reeling in Creativity: A Fishy Filmmaking Adventure
In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, join us for an engaging chat with Max Mir, co-founder of Gunpowder House Productions. Max shares the rollercoaster ride of bringing his short film, Walking Fernando, to life. From the unexpected pitch about a talking goldfish to the challenges of filming in...
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Reviving Retro: The Art and Challenge of Super 8 Filmmaking
In this episode of Cinematic Alchemy, we explore the nostalgic and challenging world of Super 8 filmmaking. We delve into its unique demands, like chronological shooting and no post-production editing, which push filmmakers to be disciplined and creative. We share insights from our project…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to Cinematic Alchemy, the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of transforming ideas from page to screen. Join me, Srishti Chhabria and my co-host, Amber Payne, as we unravel the mysteries of video production, sharing the gritty, honest insights we've gathered from years in the industry. Whether you're an entrepreneurial spirit or just curious about what goes on behind the camera, we're here to demystify the process and equip you with the knowledge to create visual masterpieces. We can’t wait for you to join us on this exciting journey!Produced and Hosted by Srishti Chhabria & Amber Payne.Music by Samuel GR MorganArtwork by Ellie Costello
HOSTED BY
Srishti Chhabria & Amber Payne
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Cinematic Alchemy have?
Cinematic Alchemy currently has 51 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Cinematic Alchemy about?
Welcome to Cinematic Alchemy, the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of transforming ideas from page to screen. Join me, Srishti Chhabria and my co-host, Amber Payne, as we unravel the mysteries of video production, sharing the gritty, honest insights we've gathered from years in the...
How often does Cinematic Alchemy release new episodes?
Cinematic Alchemy has 51 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Cinematic Alchemy?
You can listen to Cinematic Alchemy on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Cinematic Alchemy?
Cinematic Alchemy is created and hosted by Srishti Chhabria & Amber Payne.
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