Bond on Cinema

We sit down with award-winning writer-director Marcellus Cox, whose extensive work in filmmaking has graced over 200 international film festivals. His independent film projects have garnered more than 150 international awards, showcasing his talent as a movie director. This segment highlights his significant contributions to film production, including his acclaimed short film works. JAMARCUS ROSE & DA 5 BULLET HOLES, a film inspired by true events about a talented high school MLB prospect who spends the day with his newly minted mentor from the Big Brothers of America program. This is a powerful film that will resonate with young and old audiences across the nation. A much needed film about not only the importance of mentorship, but also to help youth today to realize no matter what race or creed they are, not let their what others think about them hold them back. #film #truestory #filmdirector #interview #moviedirector #bondoncinema #movie #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #MLB #baseball #bigbrother

Kendra Monet’s psychological short film ATTACHED, centers around a woman in her mid to late twenties named Draya. She is a struggling actress and recently broke up with her longtime boyfriend Davon. She deals with the anxieties of everyday life and healing from a relationship that continues to haunt her. The film opens with a flashback of Draya killing her ex-boyfriend Davon after an argument that ends their relationship. A dark metaphor for Draya's complex emotions of love and loss. Davon continues to haunt her throughout the film as an eerie reminder of the past. At the same time, Draya faces the harsh reality of rejection from acting auditions and the uncertainty of her own future. The possibility of eviction looms over her as she tries to pick up the pieces of her life and cope with how she can move forward to create the life that she has always dreamed of. Attached chronicles the journey of a young woman seeking to discover herself and heal from the constant rejection and reclaim the lack of control that she constantly feels over her own life. The complex emotional landscape of Draya provides audiences a mirror into their experiences with a horrifying twist that elevates and heightens our own insecurities, fears and anxieties about our own unknown reality. ATTACHED has a wonderful and relatable storyline. The cinematography looks and feels like a feature film which I love. The acting is on point in every scene and the music score and choice of songs fit the vibe of the whole film. #suspensethriller #psychologicalthriller #thriller #shortfilm #film #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproduction #bondoncinema #cinema #cinematography

We sit down with director Colin McIvor and actress Eva Birthistle to discuss their exciting new film, "No Ordinary Heist." This new film is based on the true story of the 2004 Northern Bank robbery, offering a fresh take on a notorious bank heist. Get ready for a thrilling cinematic experience! Anchored by a quietly commanding turn from Eddie Marsan and guided with a steady, assured hand by Colin McIvor, NO ORDINARY HEIST proves to be far more than a retelling of a notorious crime—it’s a deeply human story wrapped in tension and restraint. Eddie Marsan brings a layered vulnerability to Richard Murray, capturing the silent unraveling of a man caught in unimaginable circumstances, while Colin McIvor resists spectacle in favor of authenticity and emotional truth. What emerges is a gripping, character-driven drama that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s not just about the heist itself, but the unseen cost—the weight of fear, responsibility, and survival. For audiences seeking a crime film with substance, nuance, and a powerful central performance, NO ORDINARY HEIST is well worth the watch. Actress Eva Birthistle, recently starred in Series 2 of Bad Sisters for Apple TV, opposite Anne Marie Duff, Sharon Horgan, Sarah Greene and Eve Hewson. The show won Best Drama Series and Best Supporting Actress at the 2023 BAFTA awards. She is best known for her role in Ken Loach’s A Fond Kiss which saw her win a London Critics Circle Film Award. She also starred in the Oscar nominated Brooklyn for John Crowley. She can be seen in the hit Netflix show The Last Kingdom. #bankobbery #northernireland #filmdirector #interview #moviedirector #bondoncinema #movie #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker

Tom Logan and Michael Tove’s short film YARD SALEING is a delight to watch and when it ends you will be wanting more, just like me. YARD SALEING has an all-star cast which gives it a feature film feel to it. What could be better than a suburban house white caught up in a crime drama.  After an exhibit of the Dubai Crown Gems are stolen and never recovered, suburbanites Jim and Sally Marsh stumble onto clues to their whereabouts. Despite Jim's initial resistance, they embark on a quest to recover the diamonds and collect the One Million Dollar reward. However, as soon as they do, things go from bad to worse, resulting in consequences that are completely unexpected. #shortfilm #crimecomedy #crimedrama #comedy #drama #dramedy #filmmaking #filmmaker #film #cinema #bondoncinema 

THE CHAPLAIN AND THE DOCTOR is filled with warmth and humor, this buddy film follows two unlikely allies working to bring curiosity, connection, and compassion to a broken healthcare system - one patient at a time. Betty Clark is an 80-year-old, African American chaplain on staff at The Wilma Chan Highland Hospital Campus, the level-one trauma center in Oakland, California. Jessica Zitter is a white Jewish physician who has been Betty’s colleague on the Palliative Care service for over a decade. The two women are an unlikely team: chaplains and doctors do not usually pair up within the hierarchical and siloed halls of the hospital. Dr. Zitter, trained to believe in medical interventions and science, was not seeking a relationship with a chaplain. And Chaplain Clark never expected the doctor to take interest in her work.  But with time, the two women’s shared values and history overcome the forces that keep them apart, and they go on to do their best work together.  THE CHAPLAIN & THE DOCTOR models a new kind of care, one that honors both spirit and body, the diverse backgrounds of patients, and the most human needs we all share.  This is a must see film documentary not just about the story of two women who take their purpose and professions to help others, but we see that it help each other to become even better versions of themselves. #healtcare #doctor #chaplain #documentary #film #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #bondoncinema #medicine #faith #spiritual #healing

Aaron Wheeler’s latest feature documentary, THE EDGE OF EXISTENCE, tells the story of electronics lecturer Cam Cameron, as he attempts to survive on the UK’s most remote and dangerous island, Rockall, for a record 50 days to prove his strength to himself and inspire his family. This story attempts to understand the nature of adventure itself in an attempt to explore the true costs and benefits of such a journey into the unknown. This film is about man versus nature, but also man versus himself. There are those brave souls that attempt things that many of feel don’t make any sense, but if there is a mountain, it is meant to be climbed. THE EDGE OF EXISTENCE shows us one man’s dream, determination and maybe a bit of crazy, but crazy can help us achieve the impossible. This film is an inspiring to millions and I hope you check it out when it comes to a film festival near you. #rockall #scotland #filmdirector #filmmaking #documentaries #documentary #survival #ambition #goals #filmmaker #film #bondoncinema #ocean #northsea

Matthew Simpson's DISREMEMBER is a feature film about an ex-military alcoholic begins experiencing unexplained blackouts, and the more he tries to stop them, the worse they get, until he realizes they are being triggered by a trauma his mind is fighting to forget. What makes this film so amazing is, it is top quality in every way and to remind you, this film has no crew, no cast and was done with no budget. Matthew Simpson did what many may say is impossible, but what Matthew Simpson has done is change the filmmaking game. Yes, you can make an incredible with no budget. All it takes is hard work and creativity and never giving up. But what about the overall movie and storyline? This film is a psychological thriller that keeps your attention. Having a split personality disorder creates a double storyline and then there’s the third, which I will say what it is as I don’t want to spoil the ending of the film. T he cinematography is top notch, the colorization, the music score, and incredible editing. Every filmmaker can learn something from DISREMEMBER. And what can you learn? Well, that is only takes creativity to make a great film. #featurefilm #independentfilm #film #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #actor #screenwriter #filmindustry #bondoncinema #cinematography

Katy Lea Cannon is the Executive Director of WorldFest - Houston International Film Festival, one of the longest-running independent film festivals in the world. She is leading the festival into its next chapter, honoring the legacy of its late founder and her father, Hunter Todd, while expanding its impact through filmmaker support, industry programming, and community engagement. In addition to her film festival work, Katy Lea is a well-being facilitator and yoga teacher, integrating somatic practices into creative spaces to support sustainable, inspired storytelling. For all you filmmakers out there, I encourage you to submit your films to WorldFest, the Houston International Film Festival later this year. This year’s festival runs from April 24th to May 3rd, 2026 at Memorial City Mall Cinemark. So many films, even a retrospective Oscar block, a great night to show indie filmmakers that you can reach the Oscars with your very first film. There will be seminars, panels, plenty of networking as Houston and Texas is becoming one of the most sought after locations for filmmaking with incredible tax incentives for both independents and studios. #filmfestival #filmfestivals #filmfestivalstrategy #film #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #screenwriter #documentaries #shortfilm #shortfilms #featurefilms #oscars #BAFTA

Sam Hayes’ feature film POOLS is about a young woman Kennedy who has one day to get herself together or get kicked out of school for good. Instead of buckling down, she rallies a ragtag crew for a midnight pool-hopping adventure through the lavish estates of her college town. But under the surface, Kennedy is searching for answers to the questions tearing her up inside in the wake of her father's death. As the secrets spill, this wild escape becomes a cathartic journey of self-discovery. I love coming-of-age stories and this one is full of realism and many young people today will fully relate to the wonderful storyline Sam Hayes has brought to the silver screen. Hollywood needs to make more films like this one. Remember the days of The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, St. Elmo’s Fire and now we have POOLS. A must see film. #film #featurefilm #independentfilm #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #johnhughes #entertainment #filmcritic #rogerebert #chicago #comingofagestory #comingofage #youth #cinema #cinematography

Ali Marsh’s PITTSBURGH is both a period piece and a coming of age story all rolled into one. It’s 1979 and scrappy 9-year-old Mints is eager to wrap up a visit with her needy divorced dad. Mints' solo flight home is re-routed to Pittsburgh, where for one chaotic night she is left in the care of a boozy stewardess and a hard-nosed Granny. As she witnesses the unreliability of the adults around her, she becomes her own protector, leading her to make a pivotal decision. PITTSBURGH is a wonderful, it captures the essence of the late 1970s in every detail. The decor, the wardrobe, the storyline, cinematography and the color grading is spot on. I’m keeping my eye on this film during its festival run. #shortfilm #film #comingofage #comingofagestory #Pittsburgh #cinema #cinematography #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproducer #entertainment #filmcritic #filmreview

The haunting psychological horror short VOID, written and directed by Javier Cano Larumbe, has been officially selected for the Cleveland International Film Festival. Drawing directly from the director’s childhood experience of navigating his parents’ divorce, the film transforms personal memory into a chilling exploration of fear, emotional isolation, and the inner world of a child struggling to be heard. VOID follows eight-year-old Félix, a boy who becomes convinced that a sinister presence has taken hold in his home. While the adults around him remain distracted and unaware, Félix is left to confront a darkness that feels both external and deeply internal. What begins as a familiar childhood fear of the dark evolves into something more complex and unsettling, a manifestation of confusion, anxiety, and the unspoken emotional turmoil of a family in crisis. At its core, the film examines the disconnect between children and adults in moments of upheaval. Through the lens of horror, Javier Cano Larumbe explores how children often lack the language to articulate their emotions, while adults fail to recognize the depth of what is being expressed. The result is a powerful metaphorical narrative in which fear becomes the only available form of communication. I found this film refreshing with it’s focused storytelling and using the horror element to convey an important message to parents who are going through divorce. Learn to listen to your children and realize they are dealing with your current situation as well as its aftermath. The film is haunting, but a very powerful short film and this is another film I will be keeping my eyes on through the film festival season. #shortfilm #film #cinema #pyschologicalhorror #psychologicalthriller #suspensethriller #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #filmproducer #bondoncinema #filmfestival 

HAND follows Lin, a middle-aged undocumented cook working in a small Chinese restaurant in California, as he struggles to navigate the realities of life in the United States. Caught between the demands of economic survival and a deepening sense of isolation, he begins to confront the personal cost of remaining invisible in a society where anti-Asian hostility continues to rise beyond his workplace. Through this intimate portrait, the film explores the tensions of immigrant life and reveals how dignity, fear, and resilience coexist under constant pressure. It’s hard to fathom that we are still living in a society where racism is strong as ever. America has always been the land of opportunity, but today’s social climate is causing us to forget who we really are as people and as Americans. Benny Chen’s short film HAND is a powerful reminder that we have not grown as a people, possibly regressed as one. We need more films like this one to remind us that empathy, kindness and compassion can go a long way in making those who are coming to the land of opportunity feel welcome. #antiasianhate #asian #shortfilm #shortfilms #film #cinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #society #america #empathy #kindness 

GRACE follows a woman in her late twenties with Down Syndrome as she navigates adulthood, independence, and her first serious romantic relationship. As Grace (Fiadhnait Canning) grows closer to her boyfriend Tommy, their relationship is met with hesitation from those around them, who continue to make decisions on their behalf believing they are acting in their best interest. As she begins to find her voice, Grace pushes back against these constraints, challenging long-held assumptions about her capacity and autonomy to define her own life. The film is grounded in the context of Ireland’s Assisted Decision-Making Act 2015, enacted in 2023, which affirms that all adults have the right to make decisions about their own lives. Through Grace’s journey, the film reflects a broader societal shift toward autonomy, dignity, and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities especially when it comes to romantic experiences. Making her screen debut, Fiadhnait Canning is a 28-year-old woman with Down Syndrome, an advocate, and a public speaker on inclusion and disability. She holds a certificate in Psychology from Yale University and is the author of In My Own Words. Her co-star Luca Malocco Mulville is also an actor with an intellectual disability and performs the role of the boyfriend Tommy in his first on screen role. This is one of most powerful short films I have ever seen. The depth of story and the depth of conversation this film brings to the forefront is something we can no longer ignore. Our world lacks empathy and it lacks understanding, because many people today live by assumptions, stereotypes  and are unwilling to listen and learn. GRACE opens up that conversation on a grand scale. Yes, this film brought tears to my eyes, not in sadness, but in opening my eyes of understanding. The film is beautiful on every level. The story, the acting, the cinematography, the music score, but more importantly, its message to the world. Just because your different, you deserve the same level of love and respect. #downsyndrome #disability #lovestory #film #cinema #bondoncinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinematography #storytelling #actor #acting 

The dark comedy horror short A Hand to Hold, written by playwright Eliza Power and directed by award-winning filmmaker Philip Clyde-Smith, has been officially selected for the 50th edition of the Cleveland International Film Festival. Blending sharp humor, cinematic storytelling, and striking Hollywood-grade makeup and special effects, the film delivers a bold genre experience that mixes laughs with unsettling horror. With its mix of sharp comedy, striking practical effects, and an accomplished cast and creative team, A Hand to Hold promises audiences a wickedly entertaining genre short that proves horror and humor can be a perfect match. We are seeing a rise in horror comedy short films and thank goodness for that as we need to let our dark side laugh a little bit more. A HAND TO HOLD is short film with the storyline, look and feel of a top-rated feature film and I could see this short being created as a feature film. This short was just the tip of the iceberg as I can see so much more dark humor come out of this story. Everything about A HAND TO HOLD was done with excellence from the acting, cinematography, special effects and even the ending song just capped off a stellar film that you have got to see to believe. A HAND TO HOLD is both about holding on and letting go and not in the ways you would expect. This film is a winner in my book. #shortfilm #comedy #horror #horrorcomedy #filmmaking #filmmaker #ireland #filmdirector #cinema #bondoncinema #filmfestival #screenwrtier 

Ladies and gentlemen, at its heart, Christopher & The Bug follows Christopher, a reclusive owl whose quiet, solitary life is disrupted when a tiny, uninvited bug moves into his home. What begins as a series of comical attempts to reclaim his space gradually transforms into an unexpected journey toward connection. As Christopher confronts his own fears and misunderstandings, he discovers the transformative power of empathy, companionship, and opening oneself up to others. Christopher and the Bug is a heartwarming short film about a reclusive owl whose peaceful solitude is disrupted when a tiny bug unknowingly moves into his home. Determined to get rid of the uninvited guest, the owl embarks on a series of comical yet misguided attempts to reclaim his space. However, as their paths intertwine, he discovers the transformative power of friendship, empathy, and inclusion. This charming tale, designed to resonate with audiences of all ages, reminds us to embrace differences and find connection in unexpected places. It is wonderful to see animated films like this one. The animation is A-list quality, the storytelling is endearing, funny and heartwarming. Everything about this animated short already screams award winning and I will be following it’s journey this year for sure. #animation #animatedshort #film #cinema #shortfilm #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter 

Welcome to Bond on Cinema, where filmmakers and stories take center stage. In this video, we feature an insightful movie interview with writer-director Tom Harp, known for his work in making movies like "The Donor Party" and his newest "Home Delivery." Harp shares his experience in directing and screenwriting, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind a successful comedy movie. Comedy is back with Thom Harp’s HOME DELIVERY. Set in sun-soaked Los Angeles, Home Delivery follows a pregnant model who invites her estranged family to witness the birth of her first child at home. What begins as an intimate family moment quickly spirals into chaos as long-buried tensions surface, unexpected guests arrive, and the unpredictable realities of childbirth bring everyone together in hilarious and heartfelt ways. The film features a celebrated ensemble cast including Melanie Field, Donald Faison, Lindsay Sloane, Jimmi Simpson, Joe Pantoliano, Lesley Ann Warren, Peter MacNicol, and Tracie Thoms. Blending sharp comedy with touching family drama, Home Delivery explores the messy, unpredictable, and often hilarious nature of family relationships during life’s biggest moments. Again, comedy is back and wrapped with some heartfelt drama. HOME DELIVERY is a must see film in my book. #filmmakersfamily #filmdirector #movie #moviedirector #bondoncinema #interview #film #filmmaking #pregnancy #comedy #family

The deep-voiced London-born stage and screen actor was trained as a Shakespearean thespian at Toynbee Hall and at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). He made his first theatrical appearances at the National Theatre under the direction of Laurence Olivier and at the Bristol Hippodrome in 1959.  He appeared in Arnold Wesker's play Chips with Everything which premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in 1962 and went to Broadway the following year. He was also understudy to Frank Finlay a Lago in Othello at the National and played Archbishop Cranmer in A Man for all Seasons at the Nottingham Playhouse. At the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago he was in The Rise and Fall of Little Voice playing character named Ray Say, where he sang the Roy Orbison's song "It's Over". The Rise and Fall of Little Voice then went then onto to Broadway at the Neil Simon Theatre.   On screen from 1963, he is perhaps best remembered as Charlie Croker's right-hand man, 'jobber' Bill Bailey in the original version of The Italian Job with actor Michael Caine. He also appeared with in The Last Valley and alongside Albert Finney in Charlie Bubbles and Gumshoe.  For the small screen, George Innes has acted in numerous iconic shows in Britain and the U.S. , ranging from The Avengers, Open All Hours and Minder to Hill Street Blues, Magnum, P.I. and M*A*S*H (one of his best roles), which we’ll get into today. #actor #film #theater #theatre #television #magnumpi #hillstreetblues #theitalianjob #russellcrowe #michaelcaine #genehackman #ryanoneal #acting #cinema #stage #broadway #UK #london #hollywood #entertainment #celebrity 

Join us for an insightful interview with Emmy-winning special effects artist Lee Romare, known for his incredible contributions to projects like War of the Worlds and Five Nights at Freddy's. This discussion offers a fascinating look at the world of sfx and the intricate filmmaking process. Discover what goes on behind the scenes in major production and on the movie set, showcasing the dedication of every filmmaker involved. #bondoncinema #interview #specialeffects #film #movie #specileffectsartist #disney #disneyworld #disneyland #universalstudios #starwars

The deeply personal and emotionally resonant short film SŪNNA meaning Listen, was written and directed by Radha Mehta. Inspired by Radha’s own lived experience, the film offers a powerful and intimate exploration of identity, loss, and rediscovery through the lens of music and silence. SŪNNA follows a young Indian musician whose world is upended by sudden hearing loss. As silence takes hold, she is forced to confront the loss of not only her craft, but her sense of self. Through memory, touch, and cultural connection, she begins a journey toward reclaiming both her music and her identity. Blending emotional authenticity with a sensory cinematic approach, the film invites audiences into a rarely depicted experience, transforming silence into something deeply expressive and profoundly human. With its blend of personal storytelling, cultural specificity, and universal emotional themes, SŪNNA stands out as a powerful exploration of resilience and artistic identity. #shorfilm #film #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #hearingloss #deaf #music #deafness #identity #hindi #hindu #bondoncinema 

Director Thomas Lorber’s LEGEND HAS IT is about a male stripper named Adam. He's a dancer, the kind that's hired for high-end bachelorette blowouts and socialite birthday parties.  He is hired for one last event as he hanging up his g-string for good. Only, what should have been a fun and easy payday in an estrogen-filled hotel suite, turns into an unexpected encounter with the French mafia. With no way out but through, Adam finds himself caught in a fight for survival, where this just may be his best performance yet. This film is a rarity as it’s an action-comedy something I do too often if ever in the short film genre, but it is a breath of fresh air for this category that is usually lined with grief and depression. It’s nice to laugh and see a bit of action at the same time. The cinematography is top notch and I would expect it to be when I read over Thomas Lorber very long resume. A short film that has the look and feel of a feature film. When this film appears at a film festival near you, check it out as it’s great to leave the theater with a smile on your face. #shortfilm #actionfilm #comedy #actioncomedy #film #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #stuntman #stuntcoordinator #filmdirector #cinephile #hollywood #filmcritic #bondoncinema

Sarah Benjamin’s short film MEOW is a quiet reminder that a story does not need grandeur to leave a lasting mark—it only needs truth, contrast, and a willingness to explore the unknown. What begins as a simple search for a lost cat becomes something far more layered: a moment of crossing, of curiosity, of subtle transformation. Through Shir, we glimpse a life shaped by structure and tradition—one that meets, perhaps for the first time, the unpredictable rhythm of a world beyond its boundaries. And in Bambi, we encounter a force that is at once confusing and compelling—bold, elusive, and impossible to define in just one way. It is within that tension—between restraint and freedom, innocence and experience—that MEOW finds its voice. The night itself becomes a character, captured through evocative cinematography and carefully balanced light, illuminating not just two figures on a journey, but two entirely different ways of seeing the world. And perhaps that is what lingers most: not a single answer, but a feeling. A question. A quiet realization that sometimes, the smallest encounters can open the widest doors. #shortfilm #filmmaker #movie #filmdirector #film #bondoncinema #filmmaking #jerusalem #hadisic #cinema #cinematography #storytelling

adies and gentlemen, my guest today is Naila Al-Khaja, the first female film director in the United Arab Emirates. We discuss her latest psychological drama film, 'BAAB', co-written by Masad Amir Allah. This conversation offers valuable screenwriting advice and insights into movie storytelling. Nayla Al Khaja’s BAAB is a haunting psychological dark fantasy that unfolds through the fractured mind of a woman reeling from the sudden death of her twin sister. Plagued by the eerie hum of tinnitus in her left ear, she is drawn into a surreal world where grief takes on physical form. As she descends through three visceral stages, depression, anger, and bargaining, her reality begins to distort, blurring the line between the living and the dead. Set in an isolated Emirati landscape steeped in myth and memory, BAAB explores the intimate violence of grief and the unspoken bond between twins. What begins as a psychological unraveling soon reveals something more otherworldly, a doorway ("BAAB" in Arabic) that may lead to closure... or something far more unsettling. The storyline is captivating and the cinematography is beautiful and surreal, enhancing the overall story. #thriller #psychologicalhorror #film #filmmaker #interview #filmdirector #movie #bondoncinema #film #filmmaking #cinema #cinematography #UAE  

Ladies and gentlemen, BUKRA is about Amal, a your Syrian refugee who wins a soccer ball in a sweepstakes, and must race to claim her prize and play one final game with her best friend before he's gone forever. Set in a Syrian refugee camp in Turkey, Bukra tells the story of 11-year-old Amal, whose greatest dream is to play soccer with a real ball rather than the one she and her best friend Fouad crafted from scraps of cloth and twine. When she spots a message under her cola bottle cap promising a chance to win an official World Cup soccer ball, what once felt impossible suddenly seems within reach. Driven by hope, Amal sets out on a journey to the city to claim her prize, unintentionally creating a distance that strains her friendship with Fouad and deepens her longing for a closer connection with her father. This film is full of life lessons and it shows that sometimes when we have our eye on the ball, we miss the most important elements and/or relationships around us. #shortfilm #film #cinema #bondoncinema #syrian #refugees #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproducer #family #soccer  Everything about this film was done right. The storytelling is perfect, the casting was spot on and the intertwining of the multiple storylines are easy to follow by the audience. The cinematography is top notch and I expect this film to win some awards during its film festival run this year.

Ladies and gentlemen, this video offers a unique look at the creative process, providing a 'making of' perspective on how a production comes to life. It features a man addressing an actor's group, emphasizing that they were selected for a specific reason, with a play written with each of them in mind, hinting at the dedication and craft involved in 'theatre'. For aspiring 'actor's, understanding the 'behind the scenes' work is crucial to truly grasp the nuances of performance and production. This glimpse into the collaborative effort showcases the detailed preparation that goes into every scene.   Ladies and gentlemen, Carling Ernstzen’s THE LAST REHEARSAL, moved me, because our mortality is just a vapor in the wind of life that is here today and gone tomorrow. We don’t know the end, but what we do while we are here on Earth matters. The most important element is what we leave behind for others to take a piece of us with them that will live on.   The main character John faces the end of his earthly journey and in doing so, he finishes his race with grace. He leaves behind his wisdom and mentorship with the actors he has specifically chosen to bring his last play to life. As he fades, his work is birth forth, again with life within his actors.   THE LAST REHEARSAL brings us excellent storytelling, wonderful structure of a three act play with each scene changing with seamless grace. The acting is perfect, not overly done, but subtle, graceful, with heartfelt emotion, even when a word is never spoken.   The cinematography is beautiful with the camera slowly telling the story and you can see it when it focuses on the characters faces.   Young actors can learn by watching this film. I loved THE LAST REHEARSAL and I want to see this short film go far this year on the festival circuit. Carling, thank you for reaching out to me and sharing your wonderful film with me. Much success to you and beyond. #film #shortfilm #filmmaker #interview #bondoncinema #filmmaking #cinema #cinematography #cinematographer #screenwriting #acting

Actor John Michael Finley, who made his Broadway debut in the ensemble of Les Miserables and as the understudy for Jean Valjean in 2015. He starred in his first movie as the lead actor in I Can Only Imagine in 2018. After the production of I Can Only Imagine was completed, he returned to Broadway as the Standby for Elder Cunningham in Book of Mormon. He is back with the sequel of I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2, which has become a blockbuster hit with many critics saying it is even better than the original. And I agree, it’s fantastic! Ladies and gentlemen, every time I watch the original I CAN ONLY IMAGINE, tears fill my eyes as it’s a very moving film and the sequel actually surpasses the first one. A very rare feat in Hollywood. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 is changing lives and saving families and that’s the power of cinema and in this case the power of God moves in the hearts of those who surrender. #trending #film #actor #acting #independentfilm #lionsgatefilm #filmsequel #filmmaker #filmmaking #mercyme #inspiration #faith 

My guests today are award-winning film director Mark David and Emmy award-winning director and writer Daniel Blake Smith, here to discuss their feature film "Mr. Wonderful." The last feature film of the late Michael Madsen. This video is a discussion of the film, working with Michael Madsen and the other actors in the film. #michaelmadsen #film #independentfilm #filmmaker #interview #filmmaking #bondoncinema #cinema #filmdirector #cinematography

Specia guests James Dean, Max Marlow, Scottie Fotre, the producers of the Oscar nominated short film, A FRIEND OF DOROTHY.  Ladies and gentlemen, Lee Knight’s A FRIEND OF DOROTHY is one of the most beautiful films I’ve seen this past year. So many of us knew in our hearts that this film was going to be Oscar nominated. Now we wait for Oscar night to see if it captures the epitome of film, an Academy Award. You can feel the love coming off the screen when you see the wonderful Miriam Margolyes. A veteran of theater and the silver screen, her portrayal of Dorothy is so natural you want to adopt her right on the spot. She brings the element of love, acceptance, and a mentoring spirit. Attributes we need to receive and start giving to others. We all need to be Dorothys. Alistair Nwachukwu plays JJ, a somewhat footballer, but who’s hidden desire to act comes forward when Dorothy starts to feed the little seed inside him. She fertilizes it and sees the potential and I am not going to spoil the ending, so you’ have to see for yourself how one person can make a difference. A FRIEND OF DOROTHY is the type of short film that the the Academy loves. It’s heartwarming, endearing and most of all, leaves a lasting impression on the audience to be better people. #oscars #academyawards #shortfilm #film #cinema #bondoncinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproducer #friendship #mentorship 

The animated short IN THE BEGINNING directed by Ala Nunu is about a space probe called Beresheet, legless birds of paradise, hamster cull and humanity trying to make the world make sense. This film I wonderfully tonally absurd and colorful, ‘In the Beginning’ features three true stories about humans shaping narratives on animals in their attempt to make sense of the absurdities of the world. One features the doomed space probe Beresheet that aimed to deposit a backup of human civilization on the moon but ended up releasing microscopic tardigrades; another explores how legless specimens of birds of paradise exported to Europe in the 16th Century were widely believed to be otherworldly beings that lived forever aloft; and the last depicts Covid-era Hong Kong, where many hamsters were abandoned after authorities announced a cull as a precaution against animal-to-human transmission.    For a brief two seconds, the film depicts public domain imagery of Jesus flying on a cross with multiple wings, bestowing stigmata upon a kneeling St. Francis. I loved this animated film and will be watching its journey this year on the film festival circuit. #animatedshort #shortfilm #sxsw #film #cinema #bondoncinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #poland #portugal #filmfestival #filmfestivalcircuit 

Yu-Han Tsai newest short film, DUA JI will screen at the 2026 SXSW Film Festival. The film is set in a rural Taiwan town during her mother’s funeral, DUA JI follows the eldest daughter, as she is forced to confront the patriarchal rituals and quiet weight of duty that has long defined her life. As the ceremonies unfold and tensions quietly surface, the story positions itself as both an intimate personal journey and a reflection of gender, cultural inheritance, and intergenerational tension. The inspiration of the story stems from Tsai’s family history in rural Taiwan, where grandmother gave birth to six daughters before finally having a son. Years later, witnessing her grandmother’s Taoist funeral where the rituals centered on the male figure, revealed to Tsai the challenges women face within traditional family structures. Yu-Han Tsai takes us inside a family’s grief while they prepare for their mother’s funeral and will life just move on after it’s over or does one hold onto the past? This is a very emotional film as we live it through the heart of A-Hsien, the eldest daughter. We feel her grief, her quiet resentment to her only brother and her struggle to truly say goodbye to her mother. This film will resonate with many people around the world as grief is universal, but how we handle grief is not. Again, grief is just love looking for a place to go. #SXSW #shortfilm #austin #filmmaker #interview #filmmaking #bondoncinema #cinema #film #filmdirector

Oscar nominated short film, BUTCHER’S STAIN is about an Arab Israeli working in a supermarket in Tel Aviv and is accused of tearing down hostage posters in the break room. He sets out to prove his innocence to keep this job that he desperately needs. BUTCHER’S STAIN should help you open your eyes and stop assuming that someone’s is guilty without knowing the truth. And this film shows what happens if we fall into judging stereotypes. I found this film to be very powerful in its messaging and has found its rightful place among the other Oscar nominated short films. #oscars #academyawards #shortfilm #film #cinema #bondoncinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter

THE GIRL WHO CRIED PEARLS is simply a stunning story and with its own unique animation, making it stand out among the other Oscar contenders.  The story is told from two locations. In Montreal, at the dawn of the 20th century, a poor boy falls in love with a girl whose sorrow turns into pearls. He sells them to a ruthless pawnbroker, who hungers for more. Tempted by greed, the boy must choose between love and fortune. The choice could damn his soul. In modern-day Paris, an elegant grandfather recounts the story of a poor boy in turn-of-the-20th-century Montreal. Desperate for food and shelter, a ragged street urchin finds an abandoned apartment to sleep. But life is full of surprises. Unaware that an extraordinary person lives behind the wooden kitchen wall, the young squatter soon discovers the marvelous gift of a sad girl, and profound feelings of first love begin to fill his soul. However, pure intentions go hand-in-hand with choice and regret. As a shady pawnbroker ruins everything with this greed, the burden of consequence demands an answer. What happened to the girl who cried pearls? #animation #animatedshort #shortfilm #film #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #storytelling #fable #oscars #academyawards   

Two Black Boys in Paradise, a lovingly-crafted stop motion animation made by Manchester-based film-makers One6th who have been on an extraordinary journey from a chance poetry reading in Berlin, via a freezing warehouse in Manchester to a BAFTA British Short Animation nomination. Based on a poem by award-winning writer Dean Atta and narrated by Rizzle Kicks star Jordan Stephens, Two Black Boys in Paradise follows Edan and Dula - two young Black men on a journey toward self-acceptance. Their love for each other, and their refusal to conceal it, transports them to a paradise free from shame and judgement. Inspired by Dean Atta’s poem from his acclaimed collection There is (still) Love Here, the film takes audiences on a poetic journey that echoes the emotional highs and lows of coming into oneself and out to the world. This animated short film has such poetic emotion, thanks to both actor Jordan Stephens wonderful narration and the music score by composers Jasper Dent and Adam Grigg.  #animation #animatedshort #shortfilm #bafta #film #cinema #gender #LGBTQ #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter 

Ladies and gentleman, Kyle Kauwika Harris’ THE HUNTSMANS centers on a repressed ICU nurse played by actor Shawn Ashmore who volunteers as a reader for a recovering coma patient played by Garret Dillahunt as Lincoln, the prime suspect in the savage murders of six young women in a small southwestern town. The suspect's wife played by the amazing Elizabeth Mitchell, refuses to believe that her husband is the killer, struggles with the mounting complexities of the investigation. With a dedicated detective trying to solve the mystery before more bodies turn up, numerous other suspects take the case on a spiraling journey. THE HUNTSMAN gives all of us armchair detectives an amazing film to watch, dissect and choose who the killer is. Will you be right or will you be wrong? There are clues, so pay close attention. Forget about Knives Out, you want to see THE HUNTSMAN. Kyle Kauwika Harris is of Hawaiian heritage and an enrolled Choctaw Nation citizen of Oklahoma. Kyle previously served in the United States Navy and is best known for his Emmy-award winning feature documentary, I Stand: The Guardians of the Water and crime thriller narrative, Out of Exile. He is here today to talk about his new suspense thriller THE HUNTSMAN. Actor Shawn Ashmore has done many made-for-television movies and series,, but it was his brief appearance in X-Men in 2000 that landed him a role in X2: X-Men United in 20030) and got him on the road to stardom. As an added bonus, he even got his own personal action figure modeled after him. Currently, Shawn plays Wesley Evers the assistant DA on the hit series THE ROOKIE and today it’s all about their new feature film THE HUNTSMAN. #indiefilm #independentfilm #suspensethriller #thriller #serialkiller #film #cinema #bondoncinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproduction #actor #acting #whodunit 

Ladies and gentlemen, the Avatar film franchise is the most successful in the history of film. James Cameron does not get enough credit for what he has done for the film industry. He is an innovator, a dreamer, but he’s a doer. But to bring all the emotional magic to the Avatar films, one has to have a composer who is just as much as an innovator, a dreamer and a doer who can keep up with James Cameron. That man is Simon Franglen and what an incredible talent, but he brings emotion to each scene of Avatar: Fire and Ash. When you sit in the theater, he is responsible for that very emotion that touches you and draws you into the characters, the action and wraps you in the surreal fantasy that James Cameron created. Every filmmaker I have ever interviewed says their films do not come alive until the music score is applied to their visual storytelling. In essence, it is music that makes the world go around and again, and makes film come alive. Award-winning composer and GRAMMY-winning producer Simon Franglen who scored James Cameron’s newest installment of Avatar, Avatar: Fire and Ash. Simon composed the celebrated score for James Cameron’s Avatar: The Way of Water, for which he received a 2023 World Soundtrack Award. His score was praised for expanding the sonic world of Pandora with both epic scale and profound intimacy, and was a global hit with the soundtrack album surpassing 750 million global streams.  In 2018, Simon Franglen started writing the first cues for the onscreen music, and spent the last two years composing the expansive score. To deliver the 3-hour and 4-minute score you hear in the film, and he wrote over 1,900 pages of music.  His journey to film composition began in the recording studio, where he built a remarkable career working with legends such as Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, and Quincy Jones and on landmark films such as Skyfall, Moulin Rouge, and Se7en.  He started working with his mentor, composer James Horner, on Titanic and continued with Avatar in 2009 for which Simon was nominated for a Golden Globe. His production of “My Heart Will Go On” earned him a GRAMMY Award and helped make Titanic one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time.   #avatar #avatarfireandash #avatarthewayofwater #jamescameron #filmscore #musicscore #mileycyrus #dreamasone #cinema #filmmaker #podcast #interview #filmmaking #orchestra #songwriter

Ladies and gentlemen, BAFTA-nominated and BIFA-winning, MAGID / ZAFAR announces a bold new voice in Asian British cinema. Directed by Luís Hindman, and co-written by Sufiyaan Salam, the blistering short unfolds over one sweltering night inside a British Pakistani takeaway, where a fractured childhood friendship resurfaces and long-suppressed tensions erupt. A childhood friendship looms over Magid as he navigates the heat and chaos of a professional kitchen, where long-suppressed tensions resurface and the weight of diverging futures becomes impossible to ignore. As he confronts what has been left unsaid, the film interrogates authenticity, identity, and South Asian masculinity, offering a rare and incisive portrait of manhood shaped by cultural expectation and personal truth. The cinematography is outstanding and fast paced until the moment slows into an emotional and passionate ending. It is great to see films, filmed on real film and this one delivers in every way. #shortfilm #BAFTA #BAFTAAwards #film #cinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter #bondoncinema #manhood #masculinity #archetypes #culture

Join us for a captivating interview with Alejandro Vilpa, an internationally published author and the founder of Vilpa Films. We discuss his journey as a writer and delve into the world of filmmaking, exploring the nuances of cinematography and the broader aspects of cinematic education. This conversation offers valuable insights for aspiring creatives and enthusiasts alike, providing a unique perspective on the craft of how to write and produce compelling stories. Ladies and gentlemen, WHAT IF THE SUN DIES is about Saed, who suffers from a rare condition that prevents him from interacting with others—if he sweats, it could be fatal. If he goes outside in the sun, it could be fatal. Despite this, he decides to challenge his limitations and change the course of his life. The film is mysterious and provides a twist that the audience doesn’t see coming. The cinematography and colorization gives the film a haunting, yet unpredictable feel to it, which makes this film stand out on its own. #shortfilm #filmmaker #shortfilms ##cinematography #filmmaking #bondoncinema #film #filmdirector #filmproducer

My guest today is Kerry Browne, who currently resides in Scotland and is working on various writing projects; her most recent film is based on her award-winning screenplay 'Song of the Selkie' and where Kerry makes her directorial debut. The original script received a Remi award for 'Best Short Sceenplay' at the WorldFest Houston International Film Festival, was a finalist in Raindance Script Competition and was a Nominee for 'Best Screenplay' at the British Short Film Festival. She founded her own production company, Seal Woman Productions in 2023. Her aim is to continue to create content surrounding Scotland's diverse cultural heritage. Ladies and gentlemen, Kerry Browne’s short film SONG OF THE SELKIE, is set over two time periods, the story is a mix of English and Scots Gaelic and follows Isla; a young girl who returns to the Scottish Highlands with her father, leading her to the mystery of the legendary and mythical being, The Selkie. This film is a beautiful and tragic love story, not just between a husband and a wife, but also between a mother and a child as well as between the land and sea.  The special nuances in this film are subtle, but those subtleties is what hides the elements of brilliant storytelling. You have to truly watch this film with your heart and soul, to see those nuances come to life and tell a well rounded story.  The acting, the cinematography and the music score work synergistically together to tell a wonderful and makes for a great film to watch.  I simply loved the SONG OF THE SELKIE. #shortfilm #film #cinema #scotland #scottishhighlands #scottishgaelic #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #selkie #folklore #myths #lovestory #bondoncinema #cinematography 

Luke Sparke, an Australian writer-director known for action/sci-fi films like Occupation: Rainfall, Scurry, Bring Him to Me, and the recent dinosaur/war mashup, Primitive War. Blending his background in costume and prop work for large military productions (like Spielberg's The Pacific) with a passion for genre cinema, aiming for big-scale, effects-driven features with military authenticity and heart, often wearing multiple hats as producer, editor, and designer.  He specializes in large-scale action, sci-fi, and horror, often independently producing films that Hollywood studios deemed too risky. Today, we are taking about his incredible independent blockbuster PRIMITIVE WAR, which is placed in Vietnam during the war in 1968. A recon unit known as Vulture Squad is sent to an isolated jungle valley to uncover the fate of a missing Green Beret platoon. They soon discover they are not alone. The star-studded cast includes Jeremy Piven, Tricia Helfer, Nick Wechsler, Ryan Kwanten to name a few. #featurefilm #independentfilm #newfilm #jurassicworld #jurassicpark #dinosaur #trex #filmmaker #filmmaking #interview #bondoncinema #filmdirector #cinematography #australia

Kathryn Ferguson, an Emmy nominated director of the multi-award winning feature doc Nothing Compares about the artist Sinéad O’Connor.  The project twas natural extension of her ongoing interest in music and power.  Her current award winning short (IFTA nominated / BAFTA longlisted) NOSTALGIE is about a faded English 1980s pop star who is unexpectedly invited to perform in Northern Ireland, pulling him out of musical retirement and into a moral dilemma tied to the unintended legacy of his work. What begins as an exercise in nostalgia turns into a reckoning when he discovers his music has been repurposed in ways that contradict its original intent. Ladies and gentlemen, NOSTALGIE was written by Stacey Gregg and based on a short story by Wendy Erskine. NOSTALGIE explores the intersection of personal vanity, collective memory, and the political afterlife of pop culture. The lead character, Drew Lord Haig, a former '80s one-hit-wonder turned IT entrepreneur, is stunned when a Belfast battalion invites him to perform at their centenary celebration. Flattered and intrigued, Drew accepts, hoping to relive his glory days and recapture his youth. Launching into his hit single, the audience appear unmoved. But on the opening bars of his long forgotten B-side Nostalgie de la Boue, something unexpected happens: the crowd erupts. Word for word, they sing with fervor, elevating the moment into something transcendent. Drew is overwhelmed, until, afterwards, he learns the truth: the battalion had adopted his song during the Troubles, using it as a rallying cry for covert, brutal operations. What he once saw as artistic rebellion had become a weapon, a soundtrack to bloodshed. Reeling, Drew returns home, the weight of complicity pressing down. What began as nostalgic curiosity ends in moral reckoning. His music, once his escape, now binds him to a history he never meant to write.  #film #cinema #oscars #BAFTA #IFTA #irish #northernireland #nostalie #filmmaker #shortfilm #filmmaking #interview #bondoncinema #filmdirector #cinematography

My guest today is Luke Angus, an award-winning filmmaker and seasoned 3D animator known for his emotionally resonant storytelling and visually striking work in animation. He has collaborated with leading studios including Nickelodeon and Framestore. His work spans both commercial and independent projects, with a focus on narrative-driven short films. Ladies and gentlemen, I love films that emotionally move me. Heartfelt, endearing even in the midst of loss, love and emotional perseverance we are given a triumphant ending, but it’s not really an ending, but a continuance of love. SOLSTICE tells the story of a lonely Inuit man who must endure the endless summer daylight in the hope of being reunited with his lost love. Told entirely without dialogue, the film explores grief, isolation, devotion, and emotional perseverance through powerful imagery, with the Arctic landscape reflecting the inner world of its protagonist. Everything about this animated short film is stunning, awe-inspiring animation, perfect storytelling with the right metaphors and juxtapositions that a film needs. Only 2 - 3 times a year do I ever use the word perfection when it comes to a film and SOLSTICE is absolute PERFECTION in every way. #animation #animator #shortfilm #grief #loss #lovestory #articcircle #animatedshort #filmmaker #bondoncinema #filmmaking #filmdirector #interview

Our guests today are writers/directors and animators Andy and Carolyn London. Since 1999, they’ve been creating films, music videos and animated content through their company London Squared Productions. They have created award-winning films that have screened at festivals including Tribeca, Annecy, and Ottawa, and at MoMA’s Talk to Me exhibition. Today, they are hear with their official selection to the Sundance Film Festival, the animated short film 1981. A 14-year old Douglas gets a birthday surprise that will change his life forever. "1981" is a psychedelic coming-of-age story that captures the beauty and terror of teenage desire. Ladies and gentlemen, Andy and Carolyn London’s animated short film “1981” pushes us toward the edge in search of honesty. The film gives us the cringeworthiness and awkwardness of adolescence. We get caught in the moment of embarrassment, but with a smile on our face. This film brought back memories of my childhood where the same feelings came to life. What makes this film unique is the wide range of age groups, different generations who will be sitting in the movie theaters at various film festivals this year and watching this film. The mental and emotional outcome will be vastly different and that’s what makes this film and its concept spot on for 2026. The animation is surreal experience so reminiscent of the late 1970s to the early 1908s and I loved it. #sundance #sundancefilmfestival #oscars #shortfilm #animatedshort #animation #comingofage #teenagers #youth #stripper #birthdayparty #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #cinema #bondoncinema

Filmmaker Ida Melum follows her BAFTA-nominated and Annie Award–winning short Night of the Living Dread, she returned with Ovary-Acting. The film has been BAFTA longlisted and Annie nominated, marking a significant milestone in its awards-season journey. After its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival this past year, Ovary-Acting went on to win the Best Short Animation Grand Prize at the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF), cementing its status as one of the most distinctive animated shorts of the year. Ovary-Acting offers a joyful yet incisive look at one of life’s most pressing questions and stands as a vibrant celebration of the continued evolution of stop-motion animation. Ladies and gentlemen, A comedic and deeply personal story, Ovary-Acting explores the emotional rollercoaster of contemplating parenthood in the modern world. With wit, honesty, and meticulously handcrafted animation, the film examines questions of biology, ethics, practicality, and bodily autonomy balancing cheeky humor with genuine emotional resonance. The main character Eva is stuck at her sister's baby shower a thirty-something woman is forced to decide whether she wants to have kids or not after unexpectedly giving birth to her reproductive organs. The project reunites Melum with BAFTA-nominated writer Laura Jayne Tunbridge (Sweetpea, Requiem), whose layered and incisive script deftly balances comedy with heartfelt storytelling. I really loved this film and I’m a guy, but I found the use of humor enlightening as well as a bit informative to try to understand an element of life that many women go through. Us men for the most part, we don’t really understand women, because we don’t take time to listen. I found OVARY-ACTING a film that helps women realize they are not alone and hopefully help men listen more. I can see why this wonderful animated short if BAFTA long listed. #BAFTA #trending #podcast #trendingpodcast #shortfilm #animatedshort #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #stopactionanimation #animation #ovary #uterus #womanhood #biologicalclock 

Writer/Director Mekhai Lee acted in many professional productions, including Broadway’s “The Color Purple.” He is the writer/director & co-creator of original web-series entitled For the Boys to much acclaim. He i a member of the Half-Initiative Director Program and is the 2022 Director’s Fellow on HBO’s Succession. Mekhai also wrote and directed an original short film called “Them That’s Not” which premiered at NewfestPride ‘25 Film Festival, and has since screened at numerous Film Festivals including Bushwick, Newfest Film Festival, and Chicago International Film Festival where it was the recipient of the Golden Hugo Award, making the film official Academy Award Eligible. He is also one of six directing recipients of the NAACP 2025 Cinematic Shorts Competition, which took place at the 2025 NAACP National Convention. His new short film THEM THAT’S NOT is about a prison furlough brings an estranged father and his distant daughter together at their mother's repass. Ladies and gentlemen, THEM THAT’S NOT is a beautiful film in every way. The storyline of a father and daughter reconnecting, but hidden within their estranged relationship, a secret connection is revealed. This film is a filmmaker’s dream and what I mean by that is the story is told with incredible patience and outstanding visuals. The cinematography places a central role in this film with the correct framing of the characters, that emphasizes their emotions and dialogue. As I said the color palette brings forth the warmth of home and family. The use of sign language keeps the audience focused, as if we lean in to hear a whisper, we can transported into the lives of Drea, Carol and Samuel. I can see why this film is already Oscar Qualified so early in it’s journey to the 2027 Academy Awards. And what a joy it is for me to kick off this year with such an incredible short film. #shortfilm #film #cinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #trending #spotify #itunes #cinephile #screenwriter #storytelling #filmproduction #cinematography #sxsw #filmfestival #oscars #academyawards

Ladies and gentlemen, EXTREMIST is a short film that warns us that censorship of free speech is happening all over the world. Even countries who preach democracy and freedom are slowly taking away our right to free speech. EXTREMIST shows us the absurdity of the lengths that a government will go too to silence its citizens. Sasha Skochilenko decided to stand by her principles in the midst of standing up for the truth, but the blessing of injustice caused her voice to rise above the Russian tyranny.  Alexander’s film is a powerful narrative short, a film that fits into the category of being a social impact film. And we need more filmmakers to stand up for truth, especially if they are willing to face the consequences their actions.  #oscars #academyawards #shortfilm #russia #ukraine #justice #injustice #film #cinema #bondoncinema #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinematography #cinephile #interview #trending 

Sofiia Chui-kov-ska, an Ukrainian artist based in Paris, France. She is one of seven directors of the Oscar Shortlisted animated short film THE SHYNESS OF TREES. The short film won a Student Academy Award in the Animation category of the 52nd Student Academy Awards, organized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Sofiia was involved in a bit of everything in the project but mainly character animation and compositing. She works as a freelance animator and is developing a short animated film on the side. Their Oscar Shortlisted animated short film THE SHYNESS OF TREES is about Hélène, 40 years old, comes to visit her aging mother in the french countryside. But her mother isn't being her usual self. She seems to have formed a strange bond with the plants, insects, and the old oak tree at the end of her garden. #animation #animator #shortfilm #oscars #academyawards #film #filmmaker #filmdirector #cinema #bondoncinema #lifeanddeath #creation 

Writer/director and composer Trevor Morris has contributed to 35 Feature Films and over 700 hours of dramatic Television. He is a 5 time EMMY nominee and 2X winner. He has collaborated with Ridley and Tony Scott, Antoine Fuqua, Gore Verbinski, and Jerry Bruckheimer among others. BUTTERFLY ON A WHEEL marks Trevor’s first narrative film as writer-director. Here, he fuses music, emotion and visual storytelling into a grounded portrait of mental health, resilience and creative freedom. With the film’s rich Toronto setting, soulful performances and exploration of OCD and anxiety through the lens of a young artist’s coming-of-age, BUTTERFLY ON A WHEEL is painfully beautiful, but powerfully triumphant. A film that everyone who sees it can find something to relate too, and maybe lead them to their own healing journey. #oscar #academyawards #shortfilm #ocd #anxiety #music #musiccomposer #filmscore #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinema #storytelling #cinematography 

Ladies and gentlemen, Entirely hand drawn and animated by Blaise over three years in his Florida studio, SNOW BEAR tells the story of a lonely polar bear navigating a rapidly changing Arctic in search of connection. With stunning 2D animation, the film uses expressive visuals and a poignant original score to capture the emotional landscape of isolation, hope, and ecological fragility. Blaise drew inspiration from his own personal journey and a profound reverence for nature. With Snow Bear, he set out to capture the universal longing for connection and the resilience it takes to endure life’s harshest seasons. By using hand drawn, frame by frame animation, Blaise channels raw emotion into every image, weaving a story that reflects both personal vulnerability and the fragile beauty of the environment. The film features a powerful original score by Grammy winning composer Mark Mancina, known for his work on The Lion King, Moana, Brother Bear, and Tarzan. He is joined by composer Marlon E. Espino, whose credits include Moana, The Lego Batman Movie, and The Sea Beast. Together, the duo delivers a sweeping, immersive soundscape that heightens the film’s emotional impact. The film has also garnered early acclaim from global conservation organizations, including Polar Bears International and the National Parks Conservation Association, both of whom have endorsed the film’s environmental message. Earlier this year, Aaron received the Winsor McCay Award, one of animation’s highest honors, recognizing his lifetime achievement and contributions to the art form. Now, with SNOW BEAR shortlisted for the 98th Academy Awards®, his legacy expands into new territory, bridging hand drawn artistry, ecological urgency, and deeply personal storytelling. #DISNET #THELIONKING #MULAN #MOANA #brotherbear #oscars #academyawards #film #cinema #shortfilm #animation #animator 

Writer/director duo Julia Aks and Steve Pinder and their hilarious Oscar Shortlisted short film JANE AUSTEN’S PERIOD DRAMA. The film is set in 18th century England and following its successful world premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, the whimsical live-action short was selected for the prestigious OSCAR-qualifying Cleveland International Film Festival, where it was named one of the top ten films to watch. Personally, I would name this as the Top film to watch, period. Yes, pun intended! Set in 1813 England, in the middle of a long-awaited marriage proposal, Miss Estrogenia Talbot gets her period. Her suitor, Mr. Dickley, mistakes the blood for an injury, and it soon becomes clear that his expensive education has missed a spot. The stunning cinematography was created by Emmy-nominated Luca Del Puppo and rivals any multi-million dollar Jane Austen film such as Pride & Prejudice. Co-writer/directors Julia Aks and Steve Pinder’s wonderful partnership began in 2016 when Steve was directing a SOUND OF MUSIC parody whilst studying at USC and discovered Julia’s impeccable Julie Andrews impersonation. In 2019, the two came together once again to co-direct a Julie Andrews parody of Ariana Grande’s 7 RINGS. The parody went viral, and the pair began a string of collaborations for Julia’s YouTube channel. #janeausten #period #comedy #shortfilm #juliaaks #stevepinder #luadelpuppo #filmmaker #filmmaking #tribecafilmfestival #tribeca #soundofmusic #england #cinematography #menstruation

My guest today is writer/director Christopher M. Anthony and his BAFTA-qualified feature film, HEAVYWEIGHT. The film stars Jason Isaacs, Nicholas Pinnock and Jordan Bolger to name a few.  He taught himself animation and interned for The Jim Henson Company at the age of 15. His first official job in London was for Hensons.  Over the years he worked on a number of pioneering projects, developing the tools and pipelines that made London a world leader in VFX. The key turning point being Prisoner of Azkaban. He went on to develop perhaps the original atomization effect seen in many films today.  This was originally for X-Men 3, later used to kill Voldemort and later copied many times over. In 2008 he moved to San Fransisco to work at Lucasfilm on Indiana Jones and became a BAFTA member soon after.  Today we discuss his BAFTA-qualified feature film, HEAVYWEIGHT, where the greatest fight is in your mind and not in the ring.  Ladies and gentlemen, HEAVYWEIGHT follows wildcard boxing contender, 'Diamond' Derek Douglas, and his support team ahead of a title fight he doubts he can win.  The pressure escalates in real-time, as dirty tricks and revelations are revealed. HEAVYWEIGHT is an intense and visceral experience exploring a side of elite sport rarely seen. This film is character-driven and dialogue heavy, which I love. The film is actually fast-paced and gets to the heart of the story quickly. This is how you do a film right.  This film is tense, emotional at times, but helps us to learn that in life, the biggest fight is what happens when we let outside sources affect our thoughts. As long as we don’t allow those thoughts to enter our hearts, we still have a chance to win in life.  #boxing #MMA #fighting #sportfilm #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #jasonisaccs #nicholaspinnock #jordanbolger #trending #cinema #cinematography #bondoncinema #BAFTA 

My guests today are writer/directors Natalie Musteata and Alexandre Singh and the absolutely spectacular medium-length French-language film TWO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALIVA.  NATALIE MUSTEATA is a writer, curator, and filmmaker. She holds a Doctorate in art history and a Masters in film from The Graduate Center, CUNY. She is the curator of several exhibitions including if I can’t dance to it, it’s not my revolution, Haverford College, and UNREST: Revolt against Reason. In 2018, she produced Alexandre Singh’s richly imaginative short film The Appointment, which played in over 40 film festivals where it won several awards for “Best Short Film”, as well as co-curated the exhibition A Gothic Tale at the Legion of Honor Museum, San Francisco.  In 2024, she co-wrote, directed, and produced with Singh a medium-length French-language film TWO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALIVA, featuring Zar Amir, Luàna Bajrami, and Vicky Krieps. ALEXANDRE SINGH is a Brooklyn based visual artist, born in Bordeaux, France, to Indian and French parents. His work is inspired by a love of imaginative storytelling. His work is represented in numerous private and public collections, including the Museum of Modern Art the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum; and the Centre national des arts plastiques in Paris. In 2019, Alexandre made his debut short film, THE APPOINTMENT, which premiered at the Legion of Honor Museum, San Francisco, in his solo exhibition A Gothic Tale, and then played at PÖFF Shorts, Leuven, and Bogo Shorts amongst many others. Their mind blowing cinematic masterpiece TWO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALVIA takes place in a society where kissing is punishable by death, and people pay for things by receiving slaps to the face. And there is so much more. Ladies and gentlemen, TWO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALIVA is about In a society where kissing is punishable by death, and people pay for things by receiving slaps to the face. Angine, an unhappy woman, shops compulsively in a department store. There, she becomes fascinated by a playful salesgirl. Despite the prohibition of kissing, the two become close, raising the suspicions of a jealous colleague. There are very few films that leave me speechless and this is one of them. It is one of the most original storylines, one of the most beautiful films cinematically and so engaging you want to watch over and over again.  The black and white visuals are so stunning, they are very portrait like. It enhances the emotion of every character and the close ups of each one makes you feel you can look into their soul.  There is something the French can do better than any other filmmaker, and that’s make a film with such romance, even if one is forbidden to kiss. You still feel that romance in the cinematography. The French do it better and TWO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALVIA is proof we need more French cinema in our lives.  #love #forbiddenlove #lovers #flirting #jealousy #film #frenchcinema #cinema #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #filmproduction #shopping #trending #cinematography #cinematographer #blackandwhitefilm #art