FILMD Chats

In this episode of FILMD Chats, we sit down with Neil Jeram-Croft, director of Manchester Film Festival, to unpack how festivals really work and what filmmakers often misunderstand about them. From the early days of building MFF from scratch to scaling it into an 11-day festival screening 150 films, Neil shares what actually matters when submitting your work. We talk about the mistakes filmmakers make, how programmers really watch films, why your opening minutes matter more than you think, and the practical differences between making shorts and making features. If you are submitting to festivals, developing a feature, or trying to build momentum in your region, this episode is packed with practical insight you can apply immediately. FILMD is proud to sponsor Manchester Film Festival this year, supporting the continued growth of regional film culture across the UK.

Luís Hindman went from making home movies on an iPod to winning a BIFA and earning a BAFTA nomination. In this episode, he breaks down the real journey behind the success. The six projects that were rejected. The years spent making music videos to sharpen his craft. The moment he realised writing mattered more than technical skill. And why finding what you dislike in film might be the key to finding your voice. We talk about building collaborators, getting funding from the BFI, directing actors, handling pressure, and making an uncompromised film that truly feels like yours. If you are an emerging filmmaker trying to break through, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, Founder & CEO Craig Heyworth pulls back the curtain on why FILMD exists and how the platform helps filmmakers move from script to screen. Craig shares the reality of training hard, then hitting the “who you know” wall and how that frustration became a mission to build a home for filmmaking where people can connect, collaborate and create without waiting for gatekeepers. We break down what you can do on FILMD today, what it is designed to unlock, and what’s coming next including a stronger focus on trust, verification, safer hiring, accreditation, and more real pathways into work. Wherever you’re based and whatever your role, this is your founder-led guide to getting the most out of FILMD.

On this episode of FILMD Chats, British actor Jaskiranjit Singh Deol joins us for a frank conversation about craft, confidence and career-defining choices. Jaskiranjit opens up about the discipline it takes to stay ready, the reality behind “making it”, and the surprising truth that sometimes success can feel scary when it finally arrives. We dig into how he approached a soap role with premium-drama standards, what representation on British TV really means, and the responsibility (and pride) of portraying a turban-wearing Sikh man as a fully realised protector and leading character. From rejection and resilience to knowing when to walk away and level up, this is an essential listen for actors, filmmakers, and anyone building a creative life with purpose. Subscribe, share, and follow FILMD for more conversations that move the industry forward.

Director, writer and producer Shih-Ching Tsou joins FILMD Chats to talk about Left Handed Girl, the indie feature now on Netflix, and the long road it took to get there. From growing up in Taipei to studying in New York and meeting Sean Baker, Shih-Ching Tsou shares how a story can live with you for decades until the timing finally aligns, and why “real life” choices (real locations, small crews, smart spending) can make a film both more truthful and more affordable. We dig into practical low-budget tactics, what to prioritise when money is tight, and the mindset that keeps you moving as an independent filmmaker: focus on the story, tell the stories that don’t get a voice, and don’t wait for permission, you can make something with what you already have, even a phone.

In this episode of the FILMD Podcast, Zain sits down with filmmaker Walt Perez to unpack a career built on grit, representation and relentless self-belief. From teaching himself the craft through DVD special features to launching his own banner, Verloren Productions, Walter shares how he went from early no-budget comedies to award-winning shorts on the festival circuit. He talks about adapting a Stephen King “Dollar Baby” into Into the Night, achieving Academy consideration, and using short films as both a creative laboratory and a calling card for bigger projects. The conversation dives into the realities of diversity and representation in film, why sometimes you have to “build another door” when the industry says no, and how his work in studios like Warner Bros and NBCUniversal has shaped his perspective on who really makes decisions in the room.

In this episode of FILMD Chats, director, cinematographer and writer Gurjant Singh (New Line Films / Wolverhampton Film Festival) breaks down how he built a filmmaking career with no contacts, no clear plan, and a lot of stubborn persistence. He shares how dropping out of a business degree, shooting weddings to pay the bills and sneaking video work on the side eventually led him back to film school and his first short in 2017. From there, Gurjant talks about posting in Facebook actor groups to find collaborators, making nine shorts in a single year, and turning New Line Films into a company that now spans narrative work, commercials, music videos and podcasts. We also go behind the scenes of running Wolverhampton Film Festival, from venue nightmares to creating a genuinely welcoming space for filmmakers. If you’re an emerging filmmaker wondering where to start, this one will light a fire under you.

This week on FILMD Chats, writer–director Rob Ayling breaks down a director’s most honest promise, the opening shot and how to make it declare the film’s thesis, set rules, and prime expectation from second one. He shows how Living in Crime Alley and Punching Bag use a singular first image to set tone and then flip what viewers think they’re getting hook first, subvert later. Rob shares a practical drafting mantra write the first draft for yourself, the next for the audience, then demonstrates how he re-engineered structure and beats to respect expectation without surrendering authorship. It’s a blueprint for choices that travel from page to lens. We also explore adaptation in a restless industry: treating tech as tool, not crutch; why the pendulum back to celluloid brings discipline and texture; and when to choose phone, DSLR or Super-16 to serve theme, not habit.

Writer and director Jack Howard joins FILMD for a practical conversation about getting work finished and seen. We dig into the habits and systems that move a short from draft to delivery, how to run lean sets without losing ambition, and the collaboration essentials that lift performance and picture. Jack shares his approach to character (before plot), shaping endings that land, and surviving notes while protecting the heart of the story. For filmmakers building momentum project by project, this episode focuses on what you can control: preparation, communication, and discipline.

Writer-director Ash Connaughton shares the realities of building a filmmaking career without the usual support systems. From navigating a lack of formal training to creating work outside traditional funding routes, Ash discusses what it means to take control of your process, find your audience, and stay focused on the work that matters. This is a conversation about craft, persistence, and making space for yourself when the industry isn’t offering it. For any filmmaker trying to get their stories made on their own terms, Ash’s journey is both a reality check and a reminder that there’s no one way in, just your way. Tune in for grounded insights, lessons learned, and a practical look at what it takes to stay in the game.

BAFTA-winning producer Hayder Rothschild Hoozeer joins FILMD Chat to unpack the “15-year overnight success”: from runner lugging kit in Margate to building Who’s Here Films, studying at NFTS on a BAFTA scholarship, and learning to trust his taste. We go inside the making of Rock, Paper, Scissors, a true story on the Ukrainian frontline and why casting Ukrainian, filming in Ukrainian, and working with the Ministry of Culture mattered for authenticity. Hayder shares rehearsal-first tactics, bringing editor and composer to recces, and the no-ego culture that finished early and won big. We also dig into campaigning, impact, and keeping Ukraine in the conversation as the film qualifies for the Oscars. If you’re a filmmaker navigating budgets, structure and self-belief, this episode is a masterclass in craft and perseverance.

In this FILMD Chats episode, we sit down with Joseph Ollman, BAFTA Cymru nominated writer, director and actor, to unpack the realities of building a career across disciplines in today’s film industry. From his early shorts Throw Me to the Dogs and Meat on Bones to his growing body of acting work, Joseph reflects on the lessons that shaped his craft: the power of collaboration, directing non-professional actors, and why improvisation can lead to the most authentic performances. We explore his candid views on film school, navigating festivals, and the importance of seizing momentum when recognition arrives. Joseph also shares why he avoids spoon feeding audiences, preferring to trust viewers to find meaning through performance, visuals and subtext. For filmmakers and actors alike, this conversation is a masterclass in staying resourceful, learning by doing, and creating work that resonates far beyond the screen.

In this episode of FILMD Chats, we sit down with award-winning director and BAFTA Connect member Sherice Griffiths to explore the unfiltered realities of forging a career in independent film. With a background in comedy and a portfolio spanning branded content, short films and TV pilots, Sherice shares valuable lessons from her own journey from making the leap out of a 9-5 creative job to directing full-time. Sherice opens up about the emotional toll of rejection, the importance of self-belief before validation, and what it means to advocate for yourself on set, especially as a female director. Sherice discusses how she built experience on her own terms, why comedy deserves more respect within the industry, and the often-overlooked power of personal projects to open professional doors.

In this episode of FILMD Chats, Zain sit's down with award-winning filmmaker Nicolai Schumann, writer and director of The Lonely Musketeer, a gripping psychological thriller crafted with one actor, one room, and a whole lot of creative risk. Nicolai shares the story behind skipping the short film route and diving straight into feature filmmaking. Revealing the challenges of writing in isolation, producing independently, and building a visually compelling narrative on a tight budget. From his influences and inspirations to his bold stylistic choices and festival success at Raindance, this conversation is a masterclass in storytelling, perseverance, and breaking conventions. Whether you're a screenwriter, director, or first-time filmmaker, this is one you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Fahim Fazli shares his extraordinary journey from fleeing Afghanistan as a refugee to building a successful acting career in Hollywood, with credits including Iron Man, American Sniper, Argo, and Superman. Through candid storytelling, he reflects on cultural barriers, rejection in the industry, and the discipline that guided his path. He also reveals the six key questions every aspiring actor should ask themselves, and the real-life emotions behind his most recent role as the face of hope in Superman. This is a story about perseverance, purpose, and finding power in your past.

In this episode of FILMD Chat, we sit down with actor Andy Ellis to unpack his journey from breakout role to seasoned performer. Best known for his powerful portrayal of Gadget in This Is England, Andy shares how working with Shane Meadows shaped his approach to acting, collaboration, and storytelling. He opens up about growing up on set, navigating the emotional demands of the role, and what it means to represent working-class voices on screen. From early lessons in authenticity to building a sustainable career in film, Andy offers raw insight and practical wisdom for anyone working in or dreaming of the industry. Whether you're an actor, director, or just passionate about grounded storytelling, this episode is packed with real talk and valuable takeaways.

Writer-producer Ellie Kitchener and director Lucy Walsh join us to share their unconventional paths into the industry from forming creative partnerships during lockdown to launching their own production company. They discuss the importance of originality in today’s film landscape, the challenges of short-form storytelling, and why filmmakers need to take more creative risks. A must-watch for anyone passionate about independent film and bold new voices.

In Episode 18 of FILMD Chats, we sit down with filmmakers Su Moffitt and John Curran, the creative duo behind the Dragonfly International Film Festival. With years of experience spanning music videos, short films, and independent features, they offer an honest and practical look into what it really takes to carve out a career in today’s film industry without relying on traditional routes. They discuss the realities of getting started with limited resources, the importance of creative consistency, and how to build meaningful collaborations without ego. As festival organisers, Sue and John also share valuable insight into the submission process from what judges actually look for to why covering all technical and storytelling bases is essential.

Zain sits down with Karren Karagulian, acclaimed actor and long-time collaborator of director Sean Baker, for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to survive in independent film. From moving to New York as a young immigrant to finding his voice on screen without any formal training, Karren shares his extraordinary path to becoming a central figure in some of the most celebrated indie films of the last two decades: including the Cannes-winning Anora. With warmth, humour, and remarkable honesty, Karren reflects on rejection, reinvention, and the realities of working in film while raising a family and holding down a day job. Whether you're an aspiring actor, filmmaker, or simply passionate about authentic storytelling, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the unvarnished truth of building a creative life on your own terms.

In this inspiring episode of FILMD Chats, we sit down with Matthew Simpson: actor, director, producer, and the one-man crew behind Disremember, an award-winning indie feature made entirely solo. Matt shares the incredible story of how he took complete control of the filmmaking process from scriptwriting and directing to acting, shooting, editing, and even set design. We dive into the highs and lows of solo production, what he learned from years in commercial directing, and how he turned creative constraint into a powerful psychological thriller. He opens up about burnout, breakthrough moments, and the painstaking detail behind bringing the film to life all while aiming to inspire a new wave of DIY filmmakers.

In this episode of FILMD Chats, we sit down with science consultant and former British Army officer Geoff McBride to unpack the fascinating (and often flawed) relationship between science and cinema. From Armageddon to Interstellar, Geoff dissects common misconceptions in the science genre—like artificial gravity, sound in space, and the myth of the space elevator—revealing what filmmakers often get wrong and why. We explore how science fiction both inspires and misleads, the importance of scientific accuracy in storytelling, and which films actually get it right. With references to The Expanse, Contact, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and even fan-made Star Trek projects, Geoff offers a witty and thoughtful critique that will leave filmmakers, sci-fi lovers, and science geeks equally enlightened. Whether you're crafting your next screenplay or just curious about the truth behind Hollywood’s biggest sci-fi hits, this episode is for you.

In this episode of FILMD Chats, director and editor Luke Bather shares how an unconventional start in music led him to award-winning short films and industry recognition. Luke walks us through the early days of self-taught filmmaking, the challenges of building a directing career outside traditional pathways, and what he's learned about casting, collaboration, and the film festival circuit. A must-listen for filmmakers navigating the independent route and looking to sharpen their creative and professional instincts.

In this powerful episode of FILMD Chats, BAFTA-nominated actor Amit Shah joins us for a candid, inspiring conversation on what it really takes to build a career in acting. From his first improv class at 14 to starring in Happy Valley, Amit unpacks the personal and professional lessons that shaped his journey — and shares the wisdom he wishes he’d had starting out. We talk: • Navigating the industry as a South Asian actor • Transitioning from stage to screen • Why finding your tribe is crucial to longevity • What drama school didn’t prepare him for • And the three films that continue to inspire his craft Whether you're an actor, filmmaker, or creative trying to find your voice — this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and practical takeaways.

In this deeply personal and illuminating episode of FILMD Chats, we sit down with East London filmmaker Remi Moses — writer, director, and producer — whose work blends intimate family drama with grounded horror. From his early days shooting YouTube content during the DSLR revolution to screening films at Slamdance and exploring the complexities of disability through cinema, Remi opens up about the journey that has shaped him both as a filmmaker and a person. Remi shares how his passion for storytelling began through photography, grew through London’s grime scene, and was refined through raw trial and error. He walks us through his DIY beginnings, making films on £100 budgets with friends and no crew, and explains how wearing multiple hats — from director to boom operator — taught him the importance of every role on set.

What does it take to go from an aspiring writer to directing a BBC-backed short film? In this episode, we sit down with Eoin Doran to break down his unconventional journey into the industry. Eoin shares how his first pay cheque came from chasing a man dressed as a spanner, why he wrote 20 short films before feeling ready for a feature, and how a bold pitch convinced the BBC to take a chance on him as a director. We also dive into the real-life scam that inspired his film, the challenges of writing in a language he doesn’t speak, and what it’s really like to collaborate with the BBC.

Award-winning writer and director Sam Baron joins FILMD Chats for a hilarious and insightful deep dive into his filmmaking journey. From making his first feature film at just 12 years old to going viral on early YouTube, Sam shares the wild ups and downs of independent filmmaking. He reveals the behind-the-scenes chaos of directing The Orgy, how he balances comedy and heartbreak in his films, and why a German audience gave the most unexpected reaction to his work. Sam also talks about the brutal lessons of film festivals, the near-miss of turning The Orgy into a BBC series, and why he believes finding the right collaborators is everything. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or just starting out, this episode is packed with laughs, hard-won advice, and a love for storytelling. Don’t miss it!

In this FILMD Chats episode, we sit down with Jake and Mick from Yep Films, a duo known for their surreal, genre-bending shorts. They discuss their journey from film school—where Jake dropped out, and Mick graduated—to creating quirky projects like their web series "Murder" and the festival-circuit hit "Fleeced." They share how "Fleeced," a film about a man in a sheep costume, evolved from a simple idea into a story that’s been interpreted in many ways, from animal cruelty to friendship dynamics. Their creative process blends improvisation with structured storytelling, influenced by directors like Yorgos Lanthimos. They emphasise networking and word-of-mouth opportunities in the industry. Looking ahead, they plan to expand their portfolio with more short films, leveraging their festival success to fund bigger projects. Follow Yep Films on yepfilms.co.uk and Instagram for updates.

Award-winning cinematographer Dom Howlett takes us behind the scenes of his unconventional rise in the film industry. Forget the traditional routes—Dom’s journey proves that success isn’t about waiting for the “big break” but making your own opportunities. He shares his hands-on approach to filmmaking, the importance of collaboration, and how he turned early mistakes into defining moments of growth. From his experience running a production company to working with cutting-edge technology like volume stages, Dom opens up about what really drives his work. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned filmmaker, this episode offers fresh insights and hard-earned wisdom that will challenge how you think about your own path in cinematography. Tune in for advice, stories, and a dose of real-world inspiration.

Discover how the Thiele Brothers turned a $50 sofa into the star of their guerrilla-style indie feature Sofa, So Good. Shot with a skeleton crew during the pandemic, their absurdist comedy celebrates the pursuit of comfort and the beauty of Dayton, Ohio, as a character. Hear their tips for thriving on a tight budget, their collaborative process as siblings, and how black-and-white visuals gave their film a timeless feel. Whether you’re a filmmaker or an indie film enthusiast, this episode is packed with inspiration for creating big impact with small resources!

In this episode of FILMD Chats, award-winning Palestinian filmmaker Laila Abbas takes us behind the scenes of her six-year journey to create Thank You for Banking with Us, a bold and heartfelt film exploring gender, family, and justice in Palestine. Laila shares invaluable lessons on storytelling, navigating cultural sensitivities, and the power of collaboration in filmmaking. From her transition into the film industry to her reflections on the challenges of representing Palestinian voices on the global stage, this conversation is packed with insights for filmmakers and actors alike.

Join us for a deep dive into the creative world of award-winning writer-director Grace Alwyn Ashworth. From working at Blockbuster to crafting award-winning short films, Grace shares her journey into filmmaking, the challenges of breaking into the industry as a working-class creator, and the art of mastering dark comedy. Hear her thoughts on the importance of collaboration, why tea and biscuits matter on set, and how platforms like FILMD are changing the game for indie filmmakers. This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and invaluable advice for aspiring creators.

In this episode of FILMD Chats, Zain sits down with Katie Sheridan, an award-winning actress and writer known for her roles in Nickelodeon’s Genie in the House and indie thriller Firecracker. Katie shares her journey from childhood acting to creating her own work, reflecting on the highs and lows of the industry and the power of self-made projects. She opens up about the lessons learned from writing and producing her web series Match Not Found and her short film While It Lasts, discussing the resilience, creativity, and community that drive her work.

In this episode of FILMD Chats, Zain sits down with Matt Huntley, a renowned director of short films and commercials for brands like Samsung and Barclays. Matt shares his journey from art school to commercial directing, touching on the importance of on-set experience, learning from mistakes, and gaining confidence. He delves into the creative processes behind his short films "Lobsters" and "The Winners".

Welcome to second episode of our FILMD Chats series. FILMD co-founders Craig Roberts and Craig Heyworth sit down with Jamie Adams to talk about how to find funding for your film, how to position your film to earn a profit, and how to secure talent.

Co-founders of FILMD Craig Roberts and Craig Heyworth discuss the screenwriting process, where ideas for a film come from, the hurdles you have to jump over whilst writing, finding film funding and more.www.FILMD.co.uk