Cinemascope

Hassanen Attabi is an Iraqi-American actor, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and award-winning cinematographer dedicated to bringing bold, underrepresented stories to the screen. Born in Baghdad shortly before the Iraq War, he immigrated to Chicago, where his journey from immigrant to U.S. Marine helped shape the grounded, intelligent presence he brings to every role.After enlisting in the Marine Corps, he served with distinction and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. During his time in uniform, he honed his storytelling skills behind the camera, earning a Gold Telly Award for his cinematography on the widely praised 247th Marine Corps Birthday Message. He also published his debut poetry collection while he was in uniform.In his acting work, he is known for his emotional precision, wit, and adaptability. Acclaimed acting coach Don Bloomfield describes him as "lightning fast" and "Robin Williams-esque" in the way he combines intelligence with spontaneity and deep character insight.He is represented by Hero Talent Agency and is committed to portraying characters that reflect the complexity of his lived experience-as both a veteran and an Iraqi immigrant. With every role, he aims to challenge narratives, expand representation, and bring raw authenticity to the Hollywood landscape.

Brandon Scott Jensen is a multi-internationally award-winning artist who has worked professionally in film, television, and theatre for more than 20 years with more than 40 credits under his belt. He is also the creator of the graphic novel series Lunaria, as well as the writer, director, composer and lyricist for several brand new musical productions. His website is jensentertainment.com

David Carl holds a Master's Degree in Philosophy and a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature and has been teaching philosophy, film, and literature as part of the Great Books program at St. John’s College in Santa Fe for the past 26 years.He is currently the Dean for Graduate Programs at St. John’s and works extensively with the College’s adult education programs. He has written and lectured on the films of David Lynch and Film Noir as well as on the poetry of William Blake, Wallace Stevens, and Gertrude Stein and the philosophy of Schopenhauer and Nietzsche, and has written several books on aesthetics and speculative metaphysics.David N Meyer is an acclaimed biographer, film critic and historian, Professor in Cinema Studies and screenwriter.His most recent book, The Bee Gees: The Biography was published in hardcover by Da Capo Books.His Twenty Thousand Roads: The Ballad of Gram Parsons and His Cosmic American Music, published in hardcover and paperback by Random House,  was chosen by the Los Angeles Times as one of the Twenty Best NonFiction Books of the Year; by Rolling Stone as one of the three Best Books of the Year; and by England’s Uncut magazine as Book of the Year. It was named to numerous Top Ten Books of the Year lists in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.His film books include: The 100 Best Films To Rent You've Never Heard Of  (St. Martin's Press) and A Girl and A Gun: The Complete Guide to Film Noir (Avon Books). He is currently a Professor in Cinema Studies at the Institute for American Indian Arts (IAIA; in the Fall 2024 semester he will teach Indigenous Media. Mr. Meyer is a proud Board member of the Center for Contemporary Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was Film Editor and lead film critic for the fine-arts monthly BROOKLYN RAIL  for seven years.He is a proud contributor to The Book of the SubGenius and Three-Fisted Tales of BOB. He wrote The Dream Quest Trilogy, a sword & sorcery opus including Halberd, Dream Warrior; On the Shoulders of Giants and The Serpent Mound, under the pen name Lloyd St. Alcorn; good luck finding any of those.His writing on film, music and culture appeared in The Sunday New York Times, Entertainment Weekly – where he inaugurated the Music Video Column – GLAMOUR, GQ, Men's Journal, Wired, The Walrus, Noir Of The Week, The Rocket, The Boston Phoenix, The Boston Real Paper, Bicycling and The Seattle Weekly.He appears on the commentary tracks of the Blu-rays of TwoLane Blacktop and Candy Mountain.

J Diego Gonçalves, a talented Brazilian Actor and Filmmaker. His passion for the world of cinema has been a driving force since his early years. In pursuit of his artistic dreams, Gonçalves made the decision to move to Los Angeles in 2013 and immerse himself in English and Film School. This experience not only improved his language skills but also deepened his understanding of filmmaking. Gonçalves actively works in diverse movie productions, showcasing his versatile talents both in front of and behind the camera.

Steven Ray Byrd is an actor, social media influencer, and former U.S. Army medic who has built a loyal audience of over 645,000 followers on TikTok through his relatable humor and authentic storytelling. A devoted father, he brings real-life experience and heart into everything he creates, while also using his platform to make an impact... most notably as a strong voice in the movement to help save the film “Coyote vs. Acme.” 

Gary Mazeffa is a filmmaker and the founder of Q2 Films. He is the writer and director of Asherah: A Love Odyssey, a mythic cinematic experience exploring love, consciousness, and humanity’s role in shaping its own future.Blending Western and Eastern traditions, his work focuses on experiential storytelling—inviting audiences into stories that are felt as much as they are understood. Asherah marks the beginning of an expanding narrative universe, with future chapters already in development.Mazeffa is currently based in Florida and is spending time in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on a creative sabbatical—developing the next phase of the Asherah project while exploring locations and building new creative relationships. 

We return with an interview with John Morello, who has been on stage as an actor and storyteller for over 20 years. At one time a high-school dropout, he now holds degrees in Theatre Arts and Broadcasting. His performances of the one-man show, Dirt have been critically acclaimed by the New York Times and as an author, he has published a graphic novel and a poetry memoir titled, Buckshot Words. A multi-faceted performer John frequently takes roles in stage plays, films, performs as a poet, and recently was featured on PBS' Stories From The Stage. Most recently he performed a groundbreaking theatrical adaptation of T.S. Eliot’s The Waste Land, bringing to life the characters of the poem within an immersive multimedia setting. His new show, The Five Remembrances of a Good Boy, is now touring Canada and the US.

John Morello has been on stage as an actor and storyteller for over 20 years. At one time a high-school dropout, he now holds degrees in Theatre Arts and Broadcasting. His performances of the one-man show, Dirt have been critically acclaimed by the New York Times and as an author, he has published a graphic novel and a poetry memoir titled, Buckshot Words. A multi-faceted performer John frequently takes roles in stage plays, films, performs as a poet, and recently was featured on PBS' Stories From The Stage. Most recently he performed a groundbreaking theatrical adaptation of T.S. Eliot’s The Waste Land bringing to life the characters of the poem within an immersive multimedia setting. His new show, The Five Remembrances of a Good Boy, is now touring Canada and the US.

Tantoo Cardinal is an extraordinarily talented Native Canadian actress, with an illustrious career spanning five decades. She is known for the films Dances with Wolves, Legends of the Fall, Smoke Signals, and Killers of the Flower Moon. She is of Cree and Métis heritage. She is a founding member of The Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company. In 2009 Tantoo was honored with the Member of the Order of Canada "for her contributions to the growth and development of Aboriginal performing arts in Canada, as a screen and stage actress, and as a founding member of the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company". In 2017 she was inducted in Canada's Walk of Fame. Lonnie Anderson is Jicarilla Apache, Mexhika, Chichimeca.  He was an executive producer of the film THE SEVENTH FIRE working with Natalie Portman and Terrence Malick which examines Native American gangs. The film was shown at the White House under the Obama administration. Anderson collaborated and consulted on the animation featured in Michael Pollan limited series HOW TO CHANGE YOUR MIND (2022) on Netflix.Anderson is also working with the world-renowned poet and film maker Jimmy Santiago Baca of the film Blood In, Blood Out on a literacy and film program. Past experience include working with Spike Lee at 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks; collaborating with American Indian Movement founders Dennis Banks and Russell Means on substance and alcohol abuse Film programs.  Anderson has worked, lectured and filmed all over the globe. He has had the privilege of collaborating with many amazing and talented people such as President Barack Obama, Mark Ruffalo, Natalie Portman, Lance Armstrong, Robert Duvall, Spike Lee, Samuel L Jackson, Jason Lee, Shepard Fairey, Dolores Huerta, Wes Studi, Gary Farmer, Russell Means, Adam Beach, Dennis Banks and Floyd Red Crow Westerman.Anderson has worked with some of the largest clients on the planet. NASA, SpaceX, Nike, Microsoft, Coke, Tesla, NFL, ABC, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, IBM, Intel, Pepsi, Pfizer, FedEx, Ikea, Wildlife Conservation Society, Tour de France, US Air Force, The Pentagon and The White House.Anderson lectured and taught at the New York Institute of Technology in Bahrain, Jordan, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. He is a frequent lecturer at Università Luava di Venezia in Italy, and works with former gang members and formerly incarcerated youth at La Plazita Institute. The documentary film ENOUGHNESS - The Prequel, Indigenous Economics is brought to us by Lonnie Anderson and voiced by Tantoo Cardinal.  Watch the film here: https://www.filmsforaction.org/watch/enoughness-the-prequel-indigenous-economics-with-tantoo-cardinal/

Greg Farinelli SAG-AFTRA is a Film and Television Actor from Albuquerque, New Mexico. He has been working in the film industry since 2016. Some of his credits include a recurring role in the TV Series Roswell New Mexico for The CW. Other credits include Outer Range, Macgruber, Duster, and Interrogation. Special thanks to his agent Tina Presley. 

Kirk Ellis won two Emmys, a Golden Globe, a WGA Award, a Peabody and the Humanitas Prize for his work on the HBO miniseries John Adams. The miniseries won a record-breaking 13 Primetime Emmys in total, as well as four Golden Globe awards. Previously, Ellis received an Emmy nomination and won the WGA Award and Humanitas Prize for the ABC miniseries Anne Frank, which he wrote and co-produced. Miniseries on which he has served as writer and producer, including Into the West, and Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows have received more than 50 Emmy nominations. Upcoming feature projects include a biography of the Marquis de Lafayette for director Jean-Francois Richet (Mesrine) and Oscar-nominated Why Not Productions. For HBO, Ellis is writing The Day the Laughter Stopped, an account of the Fatty Arbuckle trials of the 1920s, set to star Eric Stonestreet and to be directed by Barry Levinson. He is currently collaborating with L.A. Confidential author James Ellroy on the contemporary police drama Throwdown Gun for FX. A graduate of the University of Southern California’s School of Cinema and Television, Ellis began his professional career as a film critic for The Hollywood Reporter, and at age 24 served as the magazine's international editor. In 1992 he formed Shadow Catcher Productions, an independent production banner under which Ellis develops his own indie features and documentaries. In addition to serving as a Television Academy governor, Ellis is chairman of the Santa Fe, New Mexico, Arts Commission. He is a former board member of the Western Writers of America, and sits on the advisory board of James River Writers. His latest book, 'They Kill People' is available at bookstores and online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. 'They Kill People' is the story of the making of Bonnie and Clyde. It is the story of the outlaws whose real lives were anything but glamorous. Most of all, it is the story of how violence and a predilection for firearms became a fundamental part of American identity.

Jamie H. Jung is an English-American actor, he is known for his recurring role as Agent Henry Minor on the 2025 HBO Max show "Duster" starring Josh Holloway. Other highlights include work on FX's "Grotesquerie," The CW's "Roswell New Mexico," Prime Video's "Outer Range" and "Them: Covenant," and El Rey Network's "Rebel Without A Crew: The Series." Jung is a screenwriter and producer operating Keep Pushing Pictures Inc in Albuquerque, NM. Visit JamieHJung.com or KPPFilmProduction.com to learn more. He is starring in the play Eureka Day at the Fusion Theatre in Albuquerque.

01/30/2026 with Jeremy ReoNason

Sean Perez started his performing career in 2004 when he first joined his High School's Rock Eisteddfod team. Being part of this dance team set him on his path to performance. He continued his dance training since specialising in L.A. Style Salsa & Latin American/Ballroom (with Karen Rufus & Diane Smedley), Commercial JFH & Music Theatre (jazz/tap/ballet).In 2007, Sean studied at The Western Sydney Institute of TAFE NSW and graduated with a Cert IV in Musical Theatre. This then allowed him to attend The Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music in Mackay, QLD where he graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Music (Specialisation in Musical Theatre). During his studies, he studied Music history, theatre history, musical theatre performance (Acting/ singing/ dance) as well as screen acting, choreography, directing & technical production.In 2012, Sean landed a role on Network Ten's (Australia) new casting program "I Will Survive" which was based on other casting programs such as "How do you solve a problem like Maria?" (UK) & "The search for the new Elle Woods" (USA). This opened up the world of drag for Sean which led him to opportunities of private bookings, small stage productions & castings in both "Carlotta" (AUST) & the third season of "Rake" (AUST) where he landed a featured role.He can be seen in the film “Lost in Paradise” on Hallmark+. 

Genevieve is a film and media strategist and on-camera and voiceover actor.In late 2022, she began volunteering in eastern Ukraine — initially as a one-time trip to better understand and document life near the frontline so she could communicate those realities to Western audiences. The experience was life-changing, and she has since split her time between the U.S. and Ukraine.She is currently hosting and producing the upcoming NMPBS TV series ¡COLORES! Ukraine: Art, Belief and Resistance, which explores the role of arts and culture in Ukraine’s resistance. She also serves as the City of Albuquerque’s Face of Media for the Kharkiv–Albuquerque Sister Cities partnership.With more than 13 years as a professional interviewer and moderator, Genevieve has interviewed everyone from film industry executives to people living on the frontlines. Across that work — and her 10+ years as a professional actor — she has developed a strong ability to identify patterns in human motivation and resistance to change.As an actor, she recently booked the lead villain in an upcoming video game recorded in Warsaw, Poland, and has appeared in film and voiceover projects across the U.S. She also hosted Cinema Scope on KSFR 101.1 FM from 2022 to 2025.She is an award-winning writer on the subject of visual communication and a New Mexico Actors Showcase finalist.

Drew Lopez is a New Mexican actor and director, known for the short film Sunset and his feature film Riley: You're Never Out the Fight, which he also directed. His short film The Way We Carry Water is in film festivals and will screen at the upcoming Las Cruces International Film Festival.  Drew is from a small town; Las Cruces, New Mexico. He and his family moved around a lot as a child but eventually they found their way back to Las Cruces. Drew enjoys being outdoors and playing sports. He picked these hobbies because of the competition and for a split second his mind is silent. He started boxing as a kid and has been training for the last 16 years. He is now a certified boxer, boxing coach, and personal trainer. Just recently, Drew started helping out at the local church as a youth pastor to give back to the community, help out future generations, and spread Gods word. Drew started acting in 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona.  He worked on projects featured on Disney, HBO, and Amazon. He has also directed, wrote, stunt coordinated, and produced various films. Drew Lopez is a hard working actor, enjoys new challenges and is always looking for new goals.

Piyush Gupta is an Indian-American actor whose journey has been a bit of a scenic route.  Piyush was born and raised in a small town in India so, obviously, it started with an engineering degree. With no Bollywood connections and only an American dream in his pocket, Piyush moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, in 2016 for graduate school and started building a new life from scratch. In sweet North Carolina, Piyush earned his dual master's in international business, which came with the opportunity to study at a French business school in Paris.  Piyush has pursued acting opportunities every step of the way and made his American TV debut with Vince Gilligan's Plur1bus in November 2025 on Apple TV. In 2023, he created 'Concerns of Peter and Friends', a short film inspired by his journey.  Through his educational and professional experiences in engineering, sales, and marketing, Piyush has embraced a unique perspective, especially valuable for his acting and storytelling skills, and brings professionalism to every set. Piyush is fluent in English and Hindi, and has working proficiency in South-Asian languages, including Punjabi, Urdu, and Bangla. A runner, Piyush's personal best for a 5K race is 26 minutes, 21 seconds, which he hopes to beat soon.

Writer and Executive Producer of recently released A DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS, Catherine Fridey was born in Paris and grew up in Chicago. She co-wrote her original story ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS, the first Christmas film on Hallmark with lead Latino characters and actors. Most of her feature and television scripts have placed in notable competitions/festivals. She’s also written and produced several shorts, two of which she directed. OVERTURNED BUCKET is a proof of concept based on an award-winning New Mexico memoir by Rose Spader. Based on her family’s experiences during WWII, she co-produced, wrote, and is the lead actor in the short SEAGULL. She’s working on a memoir based on her solo show TRANSATLANTIC, which deals more extensively with her family’s history. She received a New Mexico grant for TIME TRAVEL TEAM, an animated series about archaeology, and she worked with Star Trek screenwriter Melinda Snodgrass on a New Mexico-based series called JINXED in the Stagecoach Foundation Mentor Program. 

Anna Elizabeth James is a top director, writer and producer who first caught the filmmaking bug after being given the opportunity to create her own TV show in junior high school. Ever since then Anna has had an insatiable desire to collaborate and bring artists together towards a common goal.  Anna finds great satisfaction in supporting other artists whom she believes in, especially if the project provides an opportunity for her to create dynamic roles for women.  Her films include Held Hostage in my House (available now on Netflix) and Deadly Illusions, which was a no.1 hit on Netflix for weeks when it was released.  Find out more about Anna on her website KissandTaleproductions.com

Born in South Korea, adopted at 3 months where he was raised in Grand Rapids Michigan. Kevin started his martial arts training at the age of 5. At the age of 12, he was first in the state of Michigan for Forms and Sparring. Second in the state of Michigan for weapons. After earning his black belt in Okinawa Shorin Ryu Karate, he decided to explore other martial arts including Tai Chi, and Tae Kwon Do.In 2008, Kevin decided to move to Los Angeles California for acting. Through his training at LACC Theatre Academy he had the wonderful experience of traveling the world for a play he was in, called Antons Uncles. Traveling to London, Scotland, and all across the United States. While in between traveling Kevin worked on a few low budget feature films and pilots not only as an actor but a fight choreographer and stunt coordinator.Kevin has taught fight choreography classes at IAFT (International Academy of Film and Television) and for Hollywood Fight Choreography at Barnsdall park. Kevin decided to expand his knowledge in martial arts and began studying Wing Chun Kung Fu, and Wu Shu Kung Fu. After receiving his black belt in Tang Soo Do. Kevin has taught many children the martial art style of Tang Soo Do at Mygym for about 4 years. He decided to move to New Mexico for the entertainment market. While in New Mexico he began his training in Mantis Kung Fu. From there he decided to create his own production company called Bright Merits Productions. While living in New Mexico, Kevin booked his first TV show as a lawyer on Better Call Saul. Kevin booked a feature film called Quarantine Christmas as the character Steven. Available now on Amazon Prime. Kevin has a quick fight scene in the feature film Insight available on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.  Recently Kevin has performed as a stunt actor in Vince Gilligan’s new TV show Pluribus and John Cena’s new movie Coyote vs Acme. Kevin has also worked as a stunt performer on various tv shows and films including Taron Egerton’s feature film She Rides Shotgun, Mila Jovovich’s feature film The Protector, Nickelodeon’s The Really Loud House, CW’s Walker Independence, Fox’s Deputy and The Cleaning Lady. In 2024, Kevin Chambers was selected to go train with the world renowned Jackie Chan Stunt Team in Beijing China for their film camp. After graduating, Kevin continued to work more episodes on Fox’s TV show The Cleaning Lady. Later that year Kevin’s Short Film Bequest won Best Sci-fi Short film at the Arizona Show Low Film Festival! In 2025, Kevin was accepted to train once again with the Jackie Chan Stunt Team in Beijing, China for a second year in a row for their film camp. This year Kevin met and had dinner with his idol Jackie Chan! Kevin took his final project from the JCST Film Camp and has been entering his short film Dragon Spirit in a few different film festivals. Dragon Spirit won Best Martial Arts and Best Stunts at the Arizona Show Low Film Festival! Kevin also taught his first stunt class at Supreme Fitness and MMA, where he continues to teach classes when he’s not on set. The future is bright for Kevin and he’s only going to continue to move up!Business inquiries for acting, stunts, stunt coordinating, fight choreographer, or directing please email [email protected].

Courtney Glass is an English Professor who runs the Pluribus fan group on Facebook and the YouTube channel Courtney's Reviews. She also likes cats!Alex Quiros is a fan of hard science fiction, and of Vince Gilligan. She has a penchant for analysis, a BA in English Lit, and moderates another fan group on Facebook. She also loves cats, but they make her sneeze.  George Demetrides is 45 years old. Born and raised in Maryland and have lived there all his life. He works as a project manager during the day but also a musician and a photographer. He loves smart sci-fi because it intersects with his interests in science, philosophy, and psychology. He is really enjoying the show and can’t wait to see where it goes!Greg (nickname Ralph) Nader is just about half a century old, loves Vince Gilligan as well as science fiction, so this show seems like a perfect recipe.  He is also a very good friend to cats, but a good portion of his heart belongs to dogs! 

Cheri Montesanto is a three-time Emmy Award–winning makeup artist and Makeup & Hairstyling Award honoree whose career in film and television spans decades of innovation, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Entering the entertainment industry at just 17 years old, she quickly established herself as a dynamic creative force, bringing depth, texture, and emotional resonance to every character she touches.Her diverse body of work reflects both her versatility and her mastery of character-driven design. Her credits range from iconic films such as RoboCop 2 and Forces of Nature to culturally defining television series including The X-Files, CSI: Miami, Better Call Saul, and the Netflix feature El Camino. Most recently, she contributed her signature artistry to Apple’s Pluribus, further solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in contemporary makeup design.Across genres—from sci-fi to drama to action—Cheri is known for her precision, continuity expertise, and ability to shape visual narratives through nuanced makeup transformations. Her work continues to influence the industry, inspiring both peers and the next generation of artists.

Dr. Paul Heinzelmann is a  Primary Care doctor trained in Public health who was pulled into the world of film sets when tax incentives brought film work to Massachusetts. His observations as an outsider reveal a workplace in need of reform. He produced the movie Safe Sets: Dying to Work in the Film Industry, where he investigates hazardous working conditions in Hollywood, and discovers untold stories of enormous personal sacrifice and life-threatening risks.

10/31/2025 with Haraz Divine

Matt Page is an Actor, Writer and Director best known for creating the martial arts comedy web series "Enter The Dojo" and starring as the lead character Master Ken. His videos have received over 300 million views on YouTube. He has performed the Master Ken LIVE! comedy show across the U.S.A., Canada, Scotland, England, Wales, Germany, The Netherlands and Australia. Page has also appeared in feature films including “Kill Me Again”, “The Stress Is Killing Me”, "The Paper Tigers", "Sicario", "Shotcaller", "Maze Runner 2: Scorch Trials" and "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot". His television appearances include “Big Sky” (ABC), "Messiah” and ”Chambers" (Netflix),"Night Shift" (NBC) and  "Breaking Bad" (AMC). In 2023 Page wrote, directed and starred in the feature length action/thriller "Cop vs. Killer".

DaJuan Johnson is an actor known for his role as Detective Pierce in Bosch, Detective Noah Oakley in NCIS: Origins, and most recently he plays Principal Jeffers in the Disney+ show Electric Bloom. He coaches actors and provides them with the guidance at ThinkBiggerCoaching.com. For bookings, contact DaJuan at DaJuanJohnson.com. 

Petru Cotarcea, Violinist Petru Cotarcea is a virtuoso violinist and the founder of Lycaeum Music, a company that connects professional music educators with students. This fully integrated online platform offers flexible home lessons, online lessons, courses, workshops, and competitions for students to build a musical community. Cotarcea also built a MusicOnWheels bus, a refurbished musical double decker bus that offers free music lessons to students who normally can't afford it. Lycaeum Music has served over 9,000 children since its founding in 2017. His latest venture MuseCool works on building the future of music education for 5-11 year olds, with The Muse, an AI tool that understands live music lessons between tutors and their young students. Joe Pavlo, DirectorJoe Pavlo grew up in Minnesota and studied fine art at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Based in London for over forty years, he has directed two short films, produced feature documentaries, and worked as a second unit director on film and television productions. His parallel career in visual effects spans more than 120 projects and has earned him two Emmy Awards and a BAFTA nomination. Joe brings a passion for storytelling and a fascination with the intersection of technology and art to all his work as a filmmaker.

 Kira is an accomplished creative and business professional, currently serving as the Executive Director of AFMX. She combines her background in business operations and entrepreneurship with her expertise as an award-winning screenwriter, producer, and director.A New Mexico native, Kira's work includes the award-nominated short film "The Autumn Waltz", available on Amazon Prime, and she was selected for the prestigious New Mexico Film Office New Voices program. Her filmmaking credits also include the viral short films "Period" and "Jameson", which have millions of views online.In addition to her creative work, she founded her own production company, Jouska Road Productions, and has held key leadership positions at prominent film events like the Seattle Film Summit. Her dedication to AFMX began as a Volunteer Coordinator, where she quickly rose to Director of Operations before assuming her current role. As Executive Director, Kira champions the arts by creating opportunities for the New Mexico creative community and showcasing global talent.

Lindsy Campbell is an American actress and award-winning filmmaker based in Albuquerque, NM. A graduate of The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, she began her professional acting career with a co-star role on Longmire and has since appeared in The Messengers, Cents, Foreseeable, and The Short History of the Long Road starring Sabrina Carpenter. Her filmmaking journey began in 2010 and led to her award-winning directorial debut The Brazilian in 2013. After earning her B.A. in Media Arts from UNM, she directed The Divorce starring Navid Negahban and Laura Niemi, which opened the door to commercial campaigns and branded content.Through her company ELDECA Productions, Lindsy creates narrative and promotional content for clients worldwide in various markets. She’s worked both in front of and behind the camera on indie features, served as a short film judge for the Santa Fe International Film Festival, and continues to mentor aspiring filmmakers—all while staying rooted in her passion for authentic storytelling.

Chad Terry has been making audiences laugh, cry, and occasionally cringe since 2000, with a career that spans film, television, theater, and podcasting. He’s the creator and host of Craft Beer and Comics: A Podcast, streaming on Spotify. On stage, Chad has portrayed standout roles like Gollum in Lord of the Rings, Remnar in Escanaba in Da Moonlight, and Carl in Lonely Planet, balancing larger-than-life performances with quiet emotional depth. He helped launch a theater group in Ridgecrest, California, previously served as City Producer for The 48 Hour Film Project in Denver and Albuquerque, and after a three-year hiatus has returned to produce once again in Albuquerque.

Minefield Film Festival.Aaron Alexander is a filmmaker and producer based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the founder of Silence Fiction Films. He has directed and produced a range of projects, including the upcoming proof-of-concept short Bad River, featuring a cast of acclaimed actors. Aaron is also the Executive Director of the Mindfield Film Festival – Albuquerque, now entering its eighth year, where he has built an international platform that celebrates independent voices while connecting local filmmakers with the global community. With a background spanning directing, producing, and festival leadership, Aaron has developed a reputation for balancing creative vision with the practical demands of production. His projects are rooted in strong storytelling, cinematic style, and a commitment to fostering collaboration both on set and within the broader film community.Abby Max is a model, actress, producer, and digital creator based in New Mexico. Represented by DMe Talent Agency, she recently served as a producer on the proof-of-concept short Bad River and is the Operations Director of the Mindfield Film Festival – Albuquerque, where she plays a key role in building one of the Southwest’s most dynamic showcases for independent film. In addition, Abby is the Performing Arts Director for the Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico, where she creates opportunities for children living with cancer to explore acting, music, modeling, and other creative outlets. Her work reflects a passion for both the arts and the community, blending professional achievement with a deep commitment to making a difference.Christina Gopal is an actor, producer, manager, and modeling agent. Born and raised in Chicago, she relocated with her family to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 2007 for her husband’s job. Christina holds a BS in Nursing from Grand Canyon University but transitioned to the entertainment industry in 2010. For the past 15 years, she has managed her sons’ acting and modeling careers, with both her and her sons represented by Presley Talent Agency. In 2014, Christina founded Diva’s Perfect Productions and has produced multiple films, including The UnExpecteds, Millenium Bugs, The Awakeover, Captive, and Rivals, as well as the award-winning YouTube series Diva’s Perfect Posse. She also produces photography shoots, workshops, and charity events. In 2018, she co-founded and was elected President of Cutie-Q, a non-profit educational resource for youth models. Christina is certified in Fashion Styling through the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and launched Perfect Models Management to mentormodels of all ages. In 2024, she was asked to join and lead the Modeling Division at DMe Talent Agency. Outside of her professional work, Christina enjoys watching the NM Ice Wolves and cheering on all Chicago sports teams (except the Cubs). She loves traveling with her family, with Italy being her favorite destination for its wine, food, and deep family ties.Gene Hunt is an actor, filmmaker, and the Associate Director of the Mindfield Film Festival – Albuquerque. He holds degrees in Theater and Construction Science from Kansas State University, blending a strong artistic foundation with practical expertise. After a successful career in construction, Gene returned to his creative roots, focusing on acting as his primary passion while also building projects as a filmmaker. With several recent standout roles, he continues to establish himself as a dynamic performer whose perspective strengthens both his own work and the broader independent film community.

Born in Laredo, Texas and raised in Mexico, Alejandro began his career in film by studying at the prestigious Vancouver Film School. In 2018, he was hand selected by director Robert Rodriguez to be a participant in his documentary series "REBEL WITHOUT A CREW". The film he produced on the show, "MONDAY", was screened at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival. Alejandro’s follow-up feature film, "Millennium Bugs", was crowdfunded and ultimately distributed by Indican Pictures. In 2022, he was inducted into the New Mexico Film Hall Of fame. The following year, 2023, he co-starred in Eva Longoria's film “Flamin’ Hot” and joined the Directors Guild of America. His third feature film, “The Unexpecteds”, was selected by Los Angeles Times as “one of 8 films to watch at the 2024 Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival”, by renowned film reviewer Carlos Aguilar. He's currently at work on his fourth feature film “90 days in the 90’s”, based on the novel of the same name.

Originally from New Mexico, Michelle Tomlinson is an award-winning Actress with a long list of IMDb credits.A recipient of the bronze Best Director & Best Web/TV Pilot Award for the Palm City Film Festival for her Directing work in "Deeply Superficial," she loves working behind and in front of the camera.Tomlinson was first inspired by a conversation with former Governor James Mountain of San Ildefonso Pueblo about language being a living thing that can die and lead to catastrophic events for Native American cultures. That conversation started the journey that has become the documentary, "Edge." "Edge" has been shot in and around the Pueblos and at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in New Mexico, with Lori Bowen producing.Tomlinson is the Casting Director for the groundbreaking Narrative Podcast "Frijoles y Arroz" for creator James Charleston, and she is directing the Documentary, "Rise of the Millennial", with partner Kimberly Amato.Tomlinson recently Directed the deep emotional drama that addresses sexual assault, "Redemption" for creator James Charleston. "Redemption" was shot via Zoom during the pandemic in 2020.- IMDb mini biography by: Michelle

Film and Television Writer and Director Megan Griffiths and Writer and Producer Eliza Flug In this episode, host Genevieve Trainor is speaking for the second time with film and television writer and director Megan Griffiths and for the first time with writer and producer Eliza Flug. They started working together in 2018, and both have multiple, acclaimed independent films under their belts. This episode will focus on their latest feature together, Year of the Fox, which Eliza wrote based on her own personal experiences. Megan and Eliza will also talk about their thoughts on independent film opportunities in this tough time for filmmakers and actors. Year of the Fox is led by Sarah Jeffery, Jane Adams, Jake Weber, Lexi Simonsen, and Balthazar Getty and directed by Megan (Eden, The Night Stalker). The drama follows a teenager navigating privilege and predation in 1990s Aspen’s elite party scene amidst her adoptive parents’ bitter divorce. Tying directly to our current moment, the film is drawn from Flug’s own upbringing in Aspen, where she crossed paths with the likes of Jeffrey Epstein, who served as the inspiration for the character Balthazar Getty plays. Its nationwide digital release is August 19, 2025 on Amazon and Apple. Learn more about the film on Instagram and TikTok: @yearofthefoxfilm Megan’s built a successful writing and directing career from her home base in Seattle. She’s directed shows for HBO, EPIX, TNT, Hulu, USA, Fox and Netflix and served as the producing director for season two of Amazon’s The Summer I Turned Pretty. In addition to Year of the Fox, her other recent feature films include Duplass Brothers Productions’ I’ll Show You Mine, starring Poorna Jagannathan and Casey Thomas Brown. Also based in Seattle, Eliza is in post for Shelter (Nick Nolte, Oliver Masucci and Jacqueline Bissette), for which she serves as a producer. Some of her previous credits include East of the Mountains (Tom Skerritt, Mira Sorvino) and Sadie (Melanie Lynskey, Tony Hale, Sophia Mitri Schloss).

Adad Warda, Writer and DirectorAdad Joel Warda is an award-winning Assyrian American filmmaker based in San Francisco. He writes and directs branded content and narrative films that explore diverse perspectives and reflect his international experiences. Fluent in three languages, Adad spent 12 years living abroad in Prague and traveling the world, which inspired his compassionate approach to storytelling. His films and screenplays focus on family and social-impact issues such as diversity, and the environment.Adad's short film "Miss Her" has won multiple awards, including placement in the Oscar-qualifying LA Shorts International Film Festival and "Best Short" at the Illume Film Festival. His earlier short "UnSound Play" was selected for the Oakland International Film Festival. He was also a finalist in the prestigious Screencraft Film Fund Competition and the ATX Pitch Festival for his Sci-fi climate-focused TV pilot "Sky City Haya."With his unique background and thoughtful approach, Adad creates moving films that resonate universally while conveying highly personal themes. His work continues to garner acclaim at festivals as he develops new projects that illuminate diverse voices and perspectives.

Jason Martinez - A seasoned producer of independent films and TV shows, Jason shows the utmost professionalism on set, whilst at the same time ensuring that cast and crew is well cared for. He is known for Millennium Bugs, The Unexpecteds, Rebel Without a Crew: The Series and the TV show Southern Hospitality. He has worked in New Mexico and around the USA.Levi Gordon - Levi Gordon's passion for film has driven him to forge his own path in the industry. He independently studied screenwriting and producing, which laid the foundation for his creative endeavors. Gordon's dedication culminated in the thought-provoking short film "The Hard R", which he wrote and executive-produced. The film delves into the complex issue of cultural appropriation, showcasing Gordon's ability to tackle relevant social themes through the medium of storytelling. Building on the success of his short film, Gordon has recently made significant strides by writing and collaborating on multiple feature-length screenplays, "Unwritten", "Iniquitous" and "Retreat of the Heart". These projects demonstrate Gordon's versatility as a writer and his commitment to bringing diverse narratives to the screen. With a keen eye for crafting compelling stories and a willingness to explore challenging subjects, Levi Gordon is emerging as a promising talent in the film industry. As he continues to develop his voice and collaborate with other creatives, audiences can anticipate thought-provoking and entertaining works from this rising screenwriter.

About the film: To save her family's farm in 19th Century Shanghai, a young woman disguises herself as a man and journeys to the American West, risking everything to take down a ruthless railroad tycoon and ignite a revolution. Guest Bios:Max Gail - 2 time Emmy winner, Max Gail has over 50 years of acting experience, working on shows such as Barney Miller and General Hospital, as well as many films. He will play the character James Cannon in Midnight Shanghai. Hal Haixu Liu - An up and coming director whose film Beyond the Curtain won critical acclaim at the Santa Fe Film Festival. He is a graduate of the NYU Tisch School of the Arts film school. Mini, Michelle Ng - Born and raised in Singapore, Mini already had a career in film and TV before moving to LA to pursue her career. She is an actress, producer and stunt woman and plays the assassin Mei Xian.Laura Marie Segura - Laura is a New Mexican and wears many different hats in film industry, from editing to producing and here she is the UPM and contributed to the script writing too. Pang Thao - Pang is an actress based in Florida and will play the character Miss Wong, an entrepreneur and bathhouse keeper who is known as the 'Keeper of the Souls' in the film. Ricky Lee - Ricky Lee is a seasoned producer and actor based in New Mexico. With a deep love for westerns and storytelling, he brings authenticity to all his work. Midnight Shanghai is his most personal film to date, blending heritage, grit and cinematic ambition. 

Producer, Elizabeth MarrsLiz has been acting and telling stories since being cast as a child clown for a brief stint with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum Baily Circus. After college she moved from the stage to the classroom, becoming a college professor teaching art history. Since leaving academia she has appeared in many theater productions in Albuquerque and non-union films and commercials inNew Mexico and Utah. Working as a producer for Cactus club has been a pleasure and she looks forward to seeing the series go into production in the next year. Currently, Liz  in post- production for a documentary feature, “Liz and Nancy.”Actor, Vic Browder - At a young age, Vic Browder came to the realization that he wanted a life in the performing arts. A dynamic, bold, truthfully courageous and dedicated actor, Browder is known for for Sicario, Waco, The Magnificent Seven, Godless, Succession and over 100 other film and TV projects. He's worked with Liam Neeson, Ethan Hawke, Idris Elba, Peter Sarsgaard, David Strathairn, Michael Shannon and Cuba Gooding.Born in Las Vegas, Nevada, he was poor and sometimes homeless while his mother struggled to keep her six children safe and healthy. It was his early introduction to local theatre that gave him a place to escape the drugs, crime and poverty that surrounded his youth. The creative arts became his sanctuary for self expression and emotional support.His passion led to college at Southern Utah University and the Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City, Utah and then to Florida State University's Asolo Conservatory in Sarasota for his MFA.WIth his Masters Degree, Browder headed back to the Southwest and eventually landed in Albuquerque. After a while Browder felt constrained by limited opportunities for actors so he planned a move to Chicago for their flourishing theatre community. Luckily, he met a few New Mexico folks that talked him into staying for the film opportunities that were about to explode.Actor, Colin Jones -  Colin has been a working actor in NM for just over 20 years. He received his BA in Theatre Arts from NMSU, and went on to a Masters in Acting Training Program at Northern Illinois University with Kathryn Gately from The Neighborhood Playhouse in NYC. Colin has appeared in many Films and TV Series. Most notably as Damon in Zack Snyder’s Army of the Dead. Colin is a proud dad and Citizen of Albuquerque.Director, Michelle Tomlinson - Originally from New Mexico, Michelle Tomlinson is an award-winning Actress with a long list of IMDb credits.A recipient of the bronze Best Director & Best Web/TV Pilot Award for the Palm City Film Festival for her Directing work in "Deeply Superficial," she loves working behind and in front of the camera.Tomlinson was first inspired by a conversation with former Governor James Mountain of San Ildefonso Pueblo about language being a living thing that can die and lead to catastrophic events for Native American cultures. That conversation started the journey that has become the documentary, "Edge." "Edge" has been shot in and around the Pueblos and at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in New Mexico, with Lori Bowen producing.- IMDb mini biography by: MichelleActress, Kelsey Landon - Kelsey Landon is an award winning, seasoned SAG-Aftra & Actors's Equity Actress who splits her time between LA & Albuquerque, New Mexico. She has appeared on Days of Our Lives, HBO, Lifetime, Netflix, Discovery ID, Prime, NBC & Peacock. Kelsey has been working in the industry for the last decade as a film actress, respected acting teacher, writer, director & producer and has starred on Broadway and Regional Theatre. Kelsey is a powerhouse actress with a grounded, versatile style. When she's not on set, Kelsey loves writing and traveling with her family.

Born in Roswell, New Mexico; Merritt's first encounter with performing, aside from the plays and stories she performed on her own for family, was at the age of seven. A movie called 'Silent Tongue,' by Sam Shepard, came to Roswell to film in the desert surrounding her home town. As a request of her mother's first time position as the on set tutor, Merritt auditioned for Sam Shepard as a featured, recurring, background player. "I wanted to give Merritt an outlet for her strong tendencies toward performance that she showed since, well, pretty much birth," chuckles her mom. "I knew this was a once in a lifetime opportunity for her, especially in a small town like Roswell." From this experience, Glover learned that her talent in performance could become the pursuit of a lifetime, and her career. Merritt begged her parents to travel to L.A. soon after 'Silent Tongue' wrapped, but they agreed it wasn't the right time for a family move. From that moment forward, Merritt took part in anything that had to do with acting. She vigorously sought out classes, community theatre, high school theatre, independent films, and eventually a college degree in Performing Arts. After graduating college as magna cum laude, Merritt went to Portland, Oregon to try on a different market in acting. With many successes in community and professional theatre (including one of her favorite roles, The Wicked Witch of the West), Merritt spent three years away from her home state. When asked what brought her back to New Mexico, Merritt states with a grin: "The pilot of 'Breaking Bad'....I was watching it in Portland and going, what the hell are you doing Merritt?! This is HUGE and it's going on right in your backyard! I knew I had to make it back to New Mexico to try and become a part of this incredible show in some way. They were revolutionizing television, and I had just moved away." Shortly after seeing the pilot, Glover moved back to Albuquerque, New Mexico to start her pursuit of a film career in addition to her theatrical career. Two years later, Merritt booked her first SAG speaking role on the popular series: 'In Plain Sight,' as Sheila. Soon to follow was another role on the well received show: 'Longmire'. Then, after around twenty auditions for 'Breaking Bad,' as well as a two year stint as Skylar's (Anna Gunn's) stand-in, Merritt got the call: she had finally booked a role on the series that brought her back to New Mexico. With over 38 theatrical credits, and 37+ film and television credits under her belt now, Merritt will keep going until, as she says: "I am too old and crazy to get hired."https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3839545/bio?item=mb0508350

In this episode, host Genevieve Trainor is speaking with two-time Emmy Award-winning Co-Executive Producer, Line Producer, Director, Writer and Production Executive Stew Lyons. This is Stew’s second time on the show. With the current retraction in the industry, Genevieve is speaking to Stew about his thoughts on how producers can best pitch and position themselves to work on projects, as well as trends in producing and line producing. Stew’s experience includes TV series and pilots with Netflix, Sony Pictures Television, Warner Brothers, Amazon, Starz, Apple, HBO, FX, AMC and three broadcast networks. He’s also a production consultant with years of experience in detailed production analysis, schedules and/or budgets for nearly 350 television pilots for television broadcast, cable and streaming services. He has credits on over 600 episodes of television, including 34 series and 29 pilots (21 ordered to series). One hundred of these episodes were shot in New Mexico. His most recent projects include The Cleaning Lady; Roswell, New Mexico; Snowfall; Better Call Saul; and Matlock. Stew worked on the pilot and every episode of Breaking Bad, for which he received two Emmys and additional awards from the Directors Guild of America and Producers Guild of America, plus two Peabody Awards and a Golden Globe. He was also an adjunct professor teaching line producing at the graduate level at DePaul University and has guest lectured at universities all over the world.

In this episode, host Genevieve Trainor is speaking with New Mexico Film Office Director Steve Graham about the long-awaited return of the New Mexico Film and Media Conference, which takes place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, and will focus on filmmakers, crew, businesses and industry leaders coming together to collaborate and discuss the future of film and television in New Mexico. They're also talking about the elephants in the room, including the slow industry and the proposed tariffs, and what new opportunities are also bubbling up as a result.For more information on the New Mexico Film and Media Conference, visit: https://nmfilm.com/conference

In this episode, Cinema Scope host Genevieve Trainor is speaking with Kyiv-based Babylon’13 Film Collective Producer and Cinematographer Andrii Kotliar. This is their third conversation for Cinema Scope but their first one in person — they sat down in the Babylon‘13 office in Kyiv to talk about the important role filmmakers in Ukraine have in documenting Russia’s full-scale invasion and, globally, the fight for democracy and human rights.“Babylon‘13 assembled in the beginning of the Revolution of Dignity in Kyiv in the end of 2013.So basically, [Babylon‘13] was a response from the filmmakers and the question [of] how we can help our country to establish a way to the EU, to join rejoin the European family again — and because we have common values, a common setup of thinking about human rights, about the spirit of democracy itself.”Andrii is one of the core team members of Babylon‘13, which produced documentary Iron Butterflies. The film helped bring public awareness to Russia’s direct responsibility for the downing of Flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014. Iron Butterflies had its world premiere at Sundance 2023 and was selected for Berlinale and many other significant festivals in 2023 and 2024.Learn more about Babylon‘13 and watch their films here: https://babylon13.org.ua/?lang=en

Host Kira Sipler speaks with Ross Kagan Marks, American filmmaker and professor at New Mexico State University.

In this episode, host Genevieve Trainor is speaking with Kyiv-based award-winning director Alisa Kovalenko about her latest documentary feature, My Dear Théo. After the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine (on February 24, 2022), Alisa left the editing room of her film We Will Not Fade Away and joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces.As a soldier, she served on the frontline in the Kyiv and Kharkiv regions, fighting in the trenches for four months. During those four months on the frontline, Alisa filmed a video diary for her then 4-year-old son, Théo, in case she didn't return. ”It’s a film which was not supposed to happen,” Alisa says.Her “poignant” video diary, as Variety describes it, became My Dear Théo. View the trailer here.She also captured her fellow soldiers’ humanity, offering a rare glimpse into the tenderness and connections among the soldiers defending Ukraine against Russia's full-scale invasion, many of whom held regular jobs before the full-scale invasion.My Dear Théo is premiering in the main competition at the Copenhagen International Documentary Festival, CPH:Dox, and shows multiple times during the festival, which runs March 19–30, 2025.A Haka Films production (Poland), My Dear Théo is co-produced by Moon Man (Ukraine), Ji.hlava (Czech Republic) and JB Films (U.S.), with executive production by Monica Hellström, and additional support from the Polish Film Institute, Chicken & Egg Pictures and Meadow Fund.See additional press coverage for My Dear Théo from The Hollywood Reporter here.ABOUT ALISAAlisa was born and grew up in Zaporizhia, which is in southeastern Ukraine. She studied documentary cinema at the Karpenko Karyi National University of Theatre, Cinema and Television in Kyiv, and at the Andrzej Wajda School in Warsaw in the DocPro program.Alisa’s film Home Games was the first-ever Ukrainian creative documentary acquired by Netflix.

This week on CinemaScope, guest host Kira Sipler interviews Brent Morris, a UPM & Line ProducerCheck out Brent's IMDb page at www.imdb.com/name/nm0606400/

In this episode, host Genevieve Trainor sits down with NM Film Office Director Steve Graham, who’s giving Cinema Scope listeners exclusive info that he “might get in trouble for” — but it’s worth it. Steve is a native New Mexican and longtime L.A.-based producer, and he’s bringing his experience to NMFO by leading some exciting developments for 2025 and beyond, which he’ll discuss.

Writer, Producer and Director Michiel ten Kleij's Insights and Advice on Making a Film That Transcends National and Cultural Barriers.

In this episode, host Genevieve Trainor is speaking with writer and director John Alfone; writer, producer and editor Michael David Raso; writer, director and producer Sheila Warren; and director, actor and writer Tiffany Cole about their advice for pitching projects and pivoting during this uncertain time.Based in major film markets in the U.S. and Canada and each with decades of industry experience, they’ll also talk about what projects they’re seeing at markets like AFM, the European Film Market (Berlinale) and more.For more info on their projects:John and Michael: corsairmediaproductions.comSheila and Tiffany: swarrenfilm.com

Ivan Wiener is the Founder/Past Executive Director of the Albuquerque Film & Music Experience which began in 2013 with the support and participation of close friend, Robert Redford. He is the owner of Reel Solutions, one of the most trusted companies in the New Mexico entertainment industry that provides airport meet & greet services, personal assistance for talent working in New Mexico, and consulting for productions that saves time and money for clients.With 30+ years of experience in hospitality and entertainment, Ivan has brought his vast resources, and relationships with some of the biggest names in entertainment, together to produce television, feature films, documentaries, shorts, and commercials.Ivan is the former Head Concierge of the historic Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C., and former personal assistant to the late actor Dennis Hopper.

Sherri Chung is a trailblazing force in the film and television music industry, she is renowned for her dynamic compositions that transcend genres and bring filmmakers' visions to life. As a woman of color, her contributions have been pivotal in shaping the landscape of modern scoring. Her work on the Emmy-nominated Based on a True Story and projects like Netflix’s Happiness For Beginners, NBC’s Found, and CW’s Riverdale solidifies her status as a leader in the industry.Sherri’s talents extend beyond composing; she is an accomplished pianist, vocalist, and songwriter. Her voice has been featured in films like Sony Pictures’ “65” and the upcoming A24 film “Heretic,” as well as on the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary series "The Keepers."Currently serving as Governor of the Music Branch of the Television Academy, Sherri continues to influence and inspire. With her recent nomination for the IFMCA Breakthrough Composer of the Year, she is a compelling voice in the industry.