Action! Magazine The Podcast

Documentaries have the power to transport us into lives and places we might never otherwise experience and Being Ola is a beautiful example of that. In this episode, we sit down with director Ragnhild Nøst Bergem and the film’s subject Ola Henningsen to explore the story behind this quietly powerful documentary.Set in the small Norwegian village of Vidaråsen, the film follows Ola’s daily life in a community where people with and without disabilities live and work side by side. Together, we talk about the inspiration behind the film, the experience of filming in such an intimate environment, and what audiences can learn from a place built on empathy, simplicity, and human connection.This conversation goes beyond the screen, offering a thoughtful look at belonging, dignity, and the beauty of slowing down.

In this episode, we sit down with writer and director Guy Trevellyan to discuss his chilling short film Plastic Surgery, a gripping body horror that confronts the real-world consequences of microplastic pollution.Starring Anna Popplewell and Daniel Ings, the film follows a surgeon on the brink of maternity leave whose final day takes a terrifying turn as patients begin revealing something unthinkable—plastic embedded deep within their bodies. What starts as a routine operation spirals into chaos, forcing an impossible choice between survival and duty.Fresh off winning Best Thriller at the HollyShorts Film Festival, Plastic Surgery blends visceral horror with urgent environmental commentary. Trevellyan shares the inspiration behind the film, his approach to grounded, high-stakes storytelling, and how genre can be used to explore pressing global issues.We also dive into his upcoming project, The Act of Learning, a deeply personal story rooted in his experience with undiagnosed dyslexia, and his mission to tell stories centered on identity, truth, and human resilience.A must-listen for filmmakers and fans of horror that hits uncomfortably close to home.

In this episode, we sit down with director Sara Robin and writer Jack LeMay to talk about their documentary Your Attention Please, which premiered at SXSW in the Documentary Spotlight section. Now that the festival has passed, we reflect on the film’s impact, the conversations it sparked, and why its message continues to resonate.The film explores how digital platforms are shaping childhood, attention, and human connection through intimate, character-driven storytelling. At its core are powerful personal stories, including a mother’s fight for change after losing her son to online bullying, alongside a new generation working to challenge the systems influencing their lives.We also discuss the journey of bringing this story to the screen, the responsibility of telling such sensitive narratives, and what the future might hold for a cultural shift around our relationship with technology.

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Daniel Everitt-Lock to discuss his debut feature documentary Our Planet, The People, My Blood, a powerful and far-reaching story about justice, legacy, and the human cost of nuclear testing.The film follows Alan Owen, the son of a British nuclear test veteran, as he leads a decades-long fight for recognition and accountability on behalf of thousands of veterans and their families. What begins as a personal story expands into a global investigation, spanning four continents and bringing together voices from communities impacted by nuclear testing, from the Marshall Islands to Australia, the United States, and Japan.We talk with Daniel about the years-long journey of making the film, the responsibility of telling stories rooted in real trauma, and how the documentary became part of a larger movement pushing for transparency and change. The conversation also explores the emotional weight of uncovering hidden histories, the challenges of filming across the world, and what it means to bring visibility to stories that have long been overlooked.

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine The Podcast, we sit down with director Shareen Anderson and survivor and advocate Janet Jensen to discuss the documentary The Right Track—a film that sheds light on the realities of sex trafficking and the fight for justice and systemic change.Through honest and eye-opening dialogue, Shareen shares the journey of making the film and how her perspective evolved through listening to survivors, while Janet brings a vital, firsthand voice to the conversation, speaking to resilience, truth, and the urgent need for awareness and reform.Together, they unpack the misconceptions surrounding exploitation, the importance of centering survivor voices, and what it truly means to advocate for change in today’s world.🎧 Tune in for a conversation that is as impactful as it is necessary.

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine The Podcast, we sit down with filmmaker Chris Baker, one half of the visionary directing duo behind the haunting new short film The Trick.Premiering at FrightFest Glasgow, The Trick follows a seemingly ordinary night that spirals into something deeply unsettling, blurring the line between illusion and reality. What begins as a simple interaction quickly turns into a sinister psychological game that leaves both its characters and audience questioning what’s real.Chris takes us behind the scenes of building tension, crafting atmosphere, and creating horror that lingers long after the final frame. We also explore the duo’s signature style, their transition from award-winning projects like Backmask into darker, more layered storytelling, and how their background in visual storytelling shapes the cinematic language of their work.From the power of suggestion to the fear of losing control, this conversation dives into the deeper themes behind The Trick and what it takes to create horror that truly stays with you.🎧 Tune in for a chilling and insightful look at modern genre filmmaking.

Step into the chaotic, hilarious world of espionage gone wrong in this week's episode of ACTION! Magazine The Podcast. We sit down with filmmaker and creator Blake Sherwyn to talk about his latest project, the satirical mockumentary pilot Chet Bond: License To Chill-a bold, absurd take on the spy genre that flips the idea of a "perfect agent" on its head Set to premiere at the Dances With Films festival in New York, the pilot follows the wildly unqualified Chet Bond, played by Jack Atkins, as he fumbles his way through MI7, leaving destruction, embarrassment, and unexpected consequences in his wake. With a standout supporting cast including Mark McClain Wilson, Mercy Malick, and Lara Ashley Miller, the project blends sharp comedy with deeper themes of identity, pressure, and redemption.In this episode, Blake shares the inspiration behind Chet Bond, his journey from working at major agencies like CAA and WME to building his own production banner, and how viral success with projects like Lil Brick Answers the Web's Most Searched Questions helped shape his voice as a storyteller. We also dive into the challenges of creating comedy that resonates in today's landscape, the art of satire, and what it takes to turn a short-form hit into a festival-ready project.Whether you're a filmmaker, comedy lover, or just someone who enjoys a good spy parody. this conversation offers an inside look at building original, creator-driven stories that balance humor with meaning.Tune in for a candid, insightful, and entertaining conversation with one of comedy's rising creative voices.

On this episode of ACTION! Magazine The Podcast, we sit down with Josh Sapan and Miranda Lee to talk about the mission behind the inspiring Marvels of Media Festival.Josh, a longtime media executive who helped shape the era of prestige television during his years leading AMC Networks, founded Marvels of Media to spotlight and support autistic creators working in film, animation, and digital media. Alongside him, Miranda Lee, a festival programmer and access consultant who is on the autism spectrum, plays a key role in curating the program and advocating for greater accessibility and representation in the arts.Presented by the Museum of the Moving Image, the festival celebrates autistic media-makers through film screenings, panels, workshops, and community events that bring together filmmakers, artists, and industry professionals.

Pop culture has a new voice, and we’re sitting down with the creator herself. In this episode, we chat with Maddy Myer about the inspiration behind her fan-first podcast Maddy Mania, launching March 5th. From wrestling and K Pop to television and fandom culture, Maddie shares how her personal passions, professional experience, and love for community shaped the show. Tune in to hear what it takes to turn fandom into a platform, the stories behind her favorite pop culture moments, and why obsession can truly be an art form.

In this episode, we sit down with Argentine filmmaker Eduardo Braun Costa to talk about his debut narrative short following its Sundance premiere. We dive into the coming-of-age story behind the film, the personal childhood experiences that inspired it, and how humor and drama come together to capture youth, friendship, and survival. Eduardo also shares insights into his creative process, transitioning from music videos to narrative filmmaking, and what premiering at Sundance means for the next chapter of his career.

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Bill Chen to discuss his powerful short film Chicken, an emotionally charged coming-of-age story that explores masculinity, identity, and the lasting impact of silence within male culture. Bill shares the deeply personal inspiration behind the film, his approach to telling difficult stories with honesty and nuance, and how his upbringing shaped his creative voice. We also dive into the film’s festival journey, the importance of conversations around vulnerability and belonging, and how cinema can open space for reflection and dialogue.

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker and multi hyphenate creative Carlitos Do Souto to talk about his bold new feature film Radio Sky and the journey of bringing an ambitious independent project to life.Carlitos shares behind the scenes insight into writing, directing, and acting in Radio Sky, a film set in space that pushes creative and logistical boundaries on an indie scale. We dive into the realities of building a film from the ground up, navigating limited resources, and finding inventive solutions on set while staying true to a strong creative vision.He also reflects on his path as an emerging filmmaker and entrepreneur, the lessons learned while developing his debut feature, and what it means to premiere a first feature at a major festival. This conversation is packed with practical insight, honest reflections, and inspiration for filmmakers working outside the studio system.A must listen for anyone interested in independent filmmaking, creative risk taking, and turning ambitious ideas into reality.

In this episode, we are joined by Irish harpist and singer Joy Shannon for a joyful and inspiring conversation about her creative journey. Joy reflects on her music career and how years of composing, performing, and working within Irish folklore and dark folk traditions helped shape her transition into documentary filmmaking.We talk about her latest Tolkien inspired work, including the release of her single “Song of the Rohirrim” and the instrumental album In the Forest Singing Sorrowless, and how storytelling through music naturally led her toward visual narratives. Joy shares valuable lessons she has learned navigating the creative field as a woman, speaking openly about resilience, intuition, and finding purpose through art.This episode is filled with warmth, insight, and encouragement, offering an uplifting listen for anyone carving out their own creative path across music, film, and the wider arts.

Join us for an exclusive conversation with Jonny Durgan, double Cannes Lion-winning writer-director, as he discusses his gripping new short film, G.S.W. Following a remarkable festival run—including HollyShorts London, Foyle Film Festival, and multiple BIFA-qualifying screenings—G.S.W. is set for a San Francisco theatrical run at The Roxie Cinema from January 2–7, 2026.Jonny shares the inspiration behind the film, which follows paramedics Beth (Genevieve O’Reilly) and Jo (Kya Brame) confronting a life-and-death crisis during a school shooting, as well as his journey from advertising to filmmaking. He opens up about working with acclaimed actors like Genevieve O’Reilly, Kya Brame, and Gemma Whelan, and how his experience in commercials shaped his storytelling approach for the screen.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with filmmaker J.R. Stokes (@sidscinematics), the writer and director of Pam, a raw and intimate portrayal of a queer sex worker navigating fatherhood, addiction, and a mid-life crisis during their son’s 18th birthday week. Inspired by the cinematic styles of Sean Baker and Darren Aronofsky, Pam explores resilience, vulnerability, and the human struggle to balance survival with love. J.R. shares their creative process, challenges in telling this deeply personal story, and what drew them to such complex characters.

Join us as we sit down with Clarence Major, the production designer behind acclaimed projects like The Consultant (Amazon) and The Morning Show (Apple TV+). Clarence is redefining storytelling through live production, XR, AI, and immersive experiences, from blockbuster TV to interactive campaigns like Time Alley Shanghai. He shares his creative process, the challenges of blending technology with narrative, and the future of design in entertainment.

Join us for an exclusive conversation with Alejandro Vilpa, internationally published author, founder of Vilpa Films, and a key figure in the independent film scene. Alejandro shares the inspiration behind Vilpa Max, a groundbreaking streaming platform dedicated to independent filmmakers, and gives insights into his journey producing award-caliber projects, including collaborations with Cannes-acclaimed films and Oscar-winning teams. From producing a short film in Prague to supporting indie film distribution globally, Alejandro reveals how Vilpa Max aims to empower filmmakers and connect audiences with fresh, innovative cinema.

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine: The Podcast, we sit down with British filmmaker Mark Hampton to dive into the making of his gripping feature debut, Mark opens up about the creative journey that brought this project to life—from the earliest inspirations to the challenges of crafting a character-driven boxing drama that breaks the mold.We talk about his process as a first-time feature director, what it was like stepping into the lead role, and the real-life experiences that shaped Danny Goode’s emotional arc. Mark also reflects on his own career path, the resilience needed to get a debut feature made, and the lessons he hopes emerging filmmakers take from his story. Thoughtful, grounded, and refreshingly candid, this conversation offers not only a deeper understanding of Unlicensed but also valuable insight for anyone navigating the film industry or building their own creative path.

In this episode, we sit down with Mexican-American filmmaker Julia Weisberg Cortés to talk about her powerful Oscar®-qualifying short film, Boyfighter, starring Michael Mando (Spider-Man: Brand New Day). We dive into the emotional and creative journey behind the film, which follows a retired bare-knuckle Latino fighter forced to confront the legacy of violence and pain he has passed down to his son.Julia opens up about exploring themes of toxic masculinity, generational trauma, and redemption, as well as the responsibility of telling deeply human stories rooted in the Latin experience. From casting to visual language, she shares how Boyfighter captures the fragile beauty that can exist even in the harshest realities — and what it means to bring this story to life during awards season.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of ALTERED, the new sci fi film that is already capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide. I sat down with Tom Felton, Elizaveta Bugulova, and director Timo Vuorensola to explore the heart, craft, and world building behind this visually stunning and emotionally charged story.We talk about everything from Tom and Elizaveta’s unexpectedly powerful on screen bond to Timo’s meticulous construction of a retrofuturistic universe shaped by genetics, inequality, and the remnants of an alternate historical timeline. The trio share behind the scenes memories, surprising moments of improvisation, and the personal inspirations that shaped their work.Whether you are a sci fi lover, a fan of Tom Felton, or someone who loves hearing artists break down their creative process, this is an episode you will not want to miss. ALTERED is now playing in select theaters and on VOD from Well Go USA, so consider this your ultimate companion conversation.Tune in for a heartfelt, thoughtful, and exciting journey into one of the most compelling sci fi films of the year.

In this episode, we sit down with award-winning filmmaker Sean King O’Grady, creator and director of the gripping new docuseries SUSPICIOUS MINDS. Now streaming on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Substack, and more, the series confronts one of the most urgent questions of our time: How is artificial intelligence fueling a new wave of delusional thinking?O’Grady known for The Mill and Our American Family, takes us behind the scenes of his investigative journey, exploring the psychological, cultural, and technological forces driving this disturbing trend. We also discuss the powerful collaboration behind the project, executive produced by Mandy Teefey and Selena Gomez.Tune in for an eye-opening, timely conversation about fear, belief, digital distortion, and the fragile line between reality and illusion.

In this episode, we sit down with multi-talented artist Winter Andrews, a rising LA-based singer songwriter and actor whose emotionally charged performances have already made an impact on screen in Law & Order: SVU, Organized Crime, Criminal Minds: Evolution, and Hulu’s upcoming Murdaugh Murders. Now, Winter is channeling that same depth and intensity into his music, crafting a lush, cinematic blend of indie rock and folk reminiscent of Bon Iver, Phoebe Bridgers, and Jeff Buckley.Winter opens up about his creative journey, the transition from acting to songwriting, and the emotional landscapes that shape his sound. We dive into the story behind his powerful new single “All That Glitters,” a song inspired by the early days of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Winter shares how the track emerged in a single, urgent creative burst, rooted in months of reading first hand accounts from Mariupol and witnessing the human stories behind the headlines. With a driving arrangement enriched by acclaimed composer Matt Combs, known for work with Dan Auerbach, Kacey Musgraves, and Leon Bridges, the song captures both devastation and resilience.Join us for an intimate conversation about art, empathy, and the ways storytelling, whether on screen or in song, can illuminate the human experience.

In this episode, we sit down with filmmakers Salvatore and Max, the creative duo behind Largo, a moving short film about a 10-year-old Syrian refugee in the UK who, separated from his parents and struggling with loneliness, sets out to build a boat in hopes of finding his way back home.The directors share how their lifelong friendship turned into a filmmaking partnership and what inspired them to tell this deeply human story about displacement, longing, and resilience. We dive into their creative process, from shooting the film in just four days to working with an extraordinary young actor, Zach, whose performance brings a rare emotional depth to the screen.Salvatore and Max open up about the film’s visual language, its naturalistic tone, and the deliberate pacing that mirrors the quiet waiting of the boy’s world. They also discuss how Largo serves as a response to the refugee crisis and the power of cinema to awaken empathy and remind us of our shared humanity.Tune in for an intimate conversation about collaboration, storytelling, and how Largo encourages audiences to see beyond the headlines , to the hearts of those who simply wish to belong.

In this episode, we sit down with Dutch filmmaker Bart Schrijver director and producer of The North. Bart opens up about his creative process, sharing how he brought this deeply personal story to life while hiking through the stunning landscapes of Scotland. He offers incredible insights into the realities of making a low-budget film with a small crew, the challenges of shooting outdoors with limited resources, and how those very constraints helped shape the authenticity of the film. A must-listen for anyone passionate about indie filmmaking, storytelling, and the beauty of creating art off the beaten path.

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine: The Podcast, I sit down with producer, screenwriter, and bestselling novelist Sadia Ashraj to talk about her latest project, the powerful new short film Almost Home.Directed by Menhaj Huda (Kidulthood, The Flash, Gangs of London) and written by Kamal Khan, Almost Home follows Aamir, a Muslim-American Marine navigating PTSD, prejudice, and belonging in post-war America. The film, which continues its festival journey with screenings at Tasveer Film Festival and others, is a bold exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the unseen struggles of veterans within the Muslim-American community.Sadia opens up about her role as a producer, what drew her to the project, and the courage it takes to champion stories that challenge stereotypes and amplify underrepresented voices. Together, we dive deep into the power of collaboration, creative risk-taking, and how storytelling can spark meaningful cultural conversation.

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine: The Podcast, we sit down with Ben Blaine, one half of the award-winning filmmaking duo The Blaine Brothers, known for their darkly funny and emotionally resonant storytelling. Together with his brother Chris Blaine, Ben has built an impressive body of work, including the BIFA-winning feature Nina Forever and the BBC series Out of Her Mind.We dive into their latest project, the powerful and deeply personal short film “Undeletable”, starring Sophia Di Martino (Loki, Flowers). Ben opens up about the real-life moment that inspired the film, a raw, painful voicemail that became the seed for this moving story, and shares what it was like collaborating with Sophia to bring this emotional journey to life.We also discuss the Blaine Brothers’ creative process, the emotional honesty that drives their storytelling, and how Undeletable is making waves across Oscar-qualifying festivals around the world.🎬 Undeletable has screened at HollyShorts, Indy Shorts, Edmonton International Film Festival, and more, continuing the Blaine Brothers’ tradition of blending heartbreak and humor in unforgettable ways.Tune in for an insightful and heartfelt conversation about filmmaking, grief, and the beauty of imperfect communication.

🎙️ In Conversation with Manahar Kumar In this episode, I sit down with my friend Manahar Kumar — actor, filmmaker, and SCAD alum — for an inspiring and candid conversation. We talk about his creative journey, the projects that have shaped his path, and his experiences navigating the film industry. Manahar also opens up about the realities of pursuing an international career in entertainment, including the process of obtaining the O-1 visa and what it means for artists working abroad.Tune in for an honest, insightful discussion filled with valuable takeaways for anyone pursuing a creative career across borders.

In Conversation with Alastair Train: The Making of “Pearls”In this episode of ACTION! Magazine: The Podcast, we sit down with UK writer and director Alastair Train to talk about his latest horror short film, Pearls — which recently premiered at Motel X Film Festival in Portugal.Alastair takes us behind the scenes of the project, sharing what it takes to craft a truly effective horror film and the key creative elements he used to make Pearls stand out. The film follows Tony and Linda, a couple struggling with fertility, who cross paths with a mysterious oyster dealer promising virility — but the results are far more terrifying than they ever imagined.We dive into Alastair’s inspiration behind the story, how a bizarre real-life encounter with an oyster sparked themes of toxic masculinity, fertility, and denial, and his insights on what makes horror both unsettling and deeply human.Tune in for a fascinating conversation on genre filmmaking, storytelling craft, and the strange beauty of horror.🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

In this episode, we sit down with director Maureen Fazendeiro to talk about her solo directorial debut, The Seasons, which had its world premiere at TIFF. She takes us inside the creative process of bringing this poetic documentary to life, blending archaeology, folklore, and the haunting beauty of Portugal’s Alentejo region. Maureen shares the inspirations behind the film, the challenges of shaping such a personal vision, and what it means to debut the project on one of the world’s biggest festival stages.

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine Podcast, we sit down with acclaimed Canadian actor Cas Anvar for an in-depth conversation about his remarkable journey in film and television. From his roots in theater to his breakout role in the hit Amazon Prime series The Expanse, Cas shares stories about his evolution as an artist and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.We also dive into his experiences working on How to Get Away with Murder, collaborating alongside industry legends like Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, and the lessons he’s carried with him throughout his career.This episode is packed with insights, behind-the-scenes moments, and inspiration from an actor whose body of work spans some of the most celebrated projects in Hollywood and beyond.

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine The Podcast, we sit down with filmmaker Jeff Finn to discuss his groundbreaking 3-part documystery Before the End: Searching for Jim Morrison. Twelve years in the making, the series peels back the myths surrounding the legendary frontman of The Doors—exploring his childhood, stardom, and the lingering mystery of his death in Paris. Jeff shares his investigative journey, the surprising truths he uncovered, and what Morrison’s story means today.

ACTION! Magazine had the honor of conducting an exclusive interview with the cast and crew of'Mother, May I Have A Kidney?' a new 6 Episode Short Form Comedy/Drama Series that premiered at Tribeca.

In this episode, we sit down with Rani DeMuth the director of the acclaimed film And Now I Lay Me Down. Join us for an insightful conversation about the making of this darkly funny, poignant story of aging, reinvention, and resilience.And Now I Lay Me Down follows a once-famous actress on a chaotic farewell tour, a journey that reflects Rani’s own personal experiences with loss, identity, and survival in Hollywood. In this interview, Rani opens up about the challenges of creating a deeply personal film, the themes of survival and transformation, and what it takes to make your own path in the ever-changing world of cinema.Tune in for an inspiring discussion on filmmaking, self-discovery, and the power of storytelling.Be sure to check out And Now I Lay Me Down at an upcoming festival near you, or stream it online through select virtual screenings!

In this episode of ACTION! Magazine The Podcast, we sit down with Katie Bignell, founder of Festival Formula, a consulting service dedicated to helping filmmakers navigate the festival circuit and get their films accepted. Katie shares her expert tips on how to choose the right festivals, make your submission stand out, and maximize your film’s visibility. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or looking to elevate your festival strategy, this conversation is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.Tune in and learn the secrets to successfully getting your film on the festival map. 

This week on ACTION! Magazine: The Podcast 🎙️We sit down with the team behind The Anniversary — a haunting, dreamlike short film where love and loss blur in the quiet rituals of grief. Written and directed by Jivan Nkansah, the story was born from his own experiences with profound personal loss, exploring what happens when memory becomes something we rehearse to stay close to what we’ve lost.In this conversation with Director/Writer Jivan Nkansah, Actress Tanazia Madan, Actor Donald Love Jr., and Wardrobe Designer Rolph Paul, we dive into the film’s delicate tonal shifts from warmth to unease, its visual storytelling, and the deeply personal themes that make it resonate.Whether you’ve already watched The Anniversary or are discovering it for the first time, this episode offers an intimate look at the creative process, the emotional core of the story, and how grief can shape art in unexpected ways.

In this episode, we dive into a dynamic and entertaining conversation with André — the director, producer, editor, and star of The Last Vendetta, a new independent action film premiering August 29. The film will be available to stream on Tubi and Amazon.

We're talking with directors Steph Ching & Ellen Martinez about their powerful new feature documentary Slumlord Millionaire. This eye-opening film dives deep into NYC’s housing crisis—exposing corrupt landlords and spotlighting the everyday tenants rising up to take them down.Tune in to hear how the doc came together, the challenges they faced, and some invaluable advice for emerging filmmakers. Now available on VOD via Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, and Xfinity.

 American Cats: The Good, The Bad, and The Cuddly is a bold new documentary that dives into a story that needs to be told.We sat down with executive producer and veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Conrad, who’s on a powerful mission: to make declawing cats illegal—for good.Wait… did you know some vets are still doing painful, unnecessary surgeries on cats just for profit? Yeah, it’s real—and it’s heartbreaking.This film pulls back the curtain on a practice that’s been hidden for too long. I had no idea how bad it was until I saw it—and now I can’t unsee it.That’s the power of documentaries: they inform, they move you, and they spark change.👉 Share this with your friends. 👉 Follow the project. 👉 Be part of the change.Let’s protect our furry friends and help stop this cruelty for good. 

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