Episodes

  • Episode 1x12 - Jim Berney | A Legendary Career In Visual Effects

    Episode 1x12 - Jim Berney | A Legendary Career In Visual Effects
    Jun 27 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In the Season 1 finale of 'Trilith Institute Talks', host Hunter Barcroft sits down with legendary VFX supervisor Jim Berney, alongside film students Adam and Davis. They delve into the intricate role of VFX in filmmaking, discussing everything from storyboarding and previs to the evolution of VFX technology. Jim shares his fascinating journey into the VFX industry, recounting his work on iconic films like 'Starship Troopers', 'Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers', and 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'. The episode provides insights into the collaborative nature of film production and the ever-evolving landscape of VFX, while also touching on the challenges and innovations within the industry. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to VFX and Storyboarding 00:23 - Meet the Host and Guests 01:14 - Jim Berney's Journey into VFX 03:12 - Early Career and First Projects 07:10 - Breakthroughs and Challenges in VFX 10:44 - The Evolution of VFX Techniques 12:41 - Student Projects and VFX in Pre-Production 15:24 - The Role of VFX in Modern Filmmaking 26:29 - Building the Cloth Pipeline 27:34 - Previz and Miniature Models in VFX 29:39 - The Evolution of Storyboarding 32:18 - Generational Shifts in the VFX Industry 34:18 - Navigating Remote Work in VFX 36:45 - Pathways into the VFX Industry 40:42 - The Role of AI in Filmmaking 51:41 - Challenges in VFX Lighting and Collaboration 54:56 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Film Industry Terminology In This Episode
    • Volumetric -

    • Unreal -

    • Ray Tracing -

    • Roto -

    • Myah -

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    56 mins
  • Episode 1x11 - Suzan Satterfield | Shaping Sustainability As A Producer

    Episode 1x11 - Suzan Satterfield | Shaping Sustainability As A Producer
    Jun 20 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft sits down with esteemed Producer, Suzan Satterfield, Vice Chair of the Producers Guild of America's Atlanta chapter, to discuss her extensive career in the film industry. Joined by film students Chelsea and Matt, they delve into the intricacies of producing nature documentaries, the critical importance of environmental sustainability in filmmaking, and ways to build a career in Atlanta. The conversation covers practical advice on pitching projects, the evolution of Atlanta as a film hub, and the innovative steps the industry can take toward sustainable production practices. Suzan also shares personal anecdotes and valuable lessons from her multifaceted career in the production landscape. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Trillith Institute Talks 00:42 - Meet the Guests: Suzan, Matt, and Chelsea 01:22 - Suzan Satterfield's Career Journey 03:30 - Insights into Producing and Writing 05:30 - Challenges and Adaptability in Filmmaking 11:16 - Perfecting the Pitch: Tips and Experiences 19:09 - Safety and Unexpected Situations on Set 26:51 - Lessons Learned Early in a Producer's Career 27:15 - The Importance of Flexibility in Documentaries 29:38 - Creating Camaraderie on Set 32:17 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 34:51 - The Value of Punctuality and Asking Questions 38:55 - The Evolution of Atlanta's Film Industry 45:57 - Sustainability in Film Production 55:29 - Supporting Independent Projects in Atlanta 57:15 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Film Industry Terminology In This Episode
    • Boom Operator - A Boom Operator is the person who holds the microphone (on a boom pole) for the Sound Dept on a film set

    • Pitch - A pitch is a presentation to networks and other Producers in the film industry that might want to greenlight your idea into becoming a tv show or film.

    • Crafty - Craft Service is the department on a film set that is in charge of making sure craft service food and drinks are available to cast and crew throughout the shoot day.

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    59 mins
  • Episode 1x10 - Caleb Wood | Inside Post Production

    Episode 1x10 - Caleb Wood | Inside Post Production
    Jun 13 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft converses with Post Producer Caleb Wood, along with film students Xavi and Mia. Caleb shares his journey from working on Tyler Perry productions to his current role at Moonshine Post, where he collaborates on projects for Paramount Plus and BET... The discussion delves into the intricacies of post production, the importance of VFX, and the evolving film industry in the South. Caleb offers insights on finding passion in storytelling, the complexities of post production logistics, and the significant role of teamwork. The episode also highlights the value of learning industry phases and building networks for aspiring filmmakers. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to VFX in Film 00:15 - Meet the Host and Guests 00:23 - Caleb Wood's Career Journey 00:33 - Discussion on Post Production 01:39 - Roles and Experiences in Post Production 03:36 - VFX and Its Importance 06:31 - Challenges and Insights in Post Production 07:43 - Favorite Types of VFX 10:52 - Day-to-Day of a Post Producer 14:35 - Skills and Misconceptions in Post Production 27:47 - Communication and Collaboration on Set 31:58 - Caleb's Move to Atlanta and Career Growth 35:06 - Building Relationships in Production 35:50 - Joining Moonshine Post 36:29 - Adapting to Industry Changes 36:58 - Navigating Strikes and Indie Projects 37:59 - The Evolution of Atlanta's Film Scene 38:48 - Challenges and Reflections During Strikes 39:40 - Finding Opportunities in Uncertainty 41:15 - Networking Tips for Aspiring Filmmakers 44:23 - MoviePass and Film Memories 45:35 - Family Influence on Film Passion 56:21 - Theater and Film: A Family Affair 01:01:04 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Film Industry Terminology In This Episode CGI - CGI stands for computer generated imagery, which is the use of computer graphics in art and media. Roto - Slang for rotoscoping, which is an animation technique that animators use to trace over motion picture footage, frame by frame, to produce realistic action. Resolve - slang for a software program called DaVinci Resolve, which is the world's only all in one solution for editing, color, VFX, motion graphics and audio AVID - AVID Media Composer is the most acclaimed and trusted collaborative video editing software solution across the media and entertainment industry. It is widely considered an industry-standard technology and has been for some time. Conform - Conforming is when you re-link lower quality footage (like proxies, SD, etc...) to the higher res, mastering quality footage after you are done editing. About Trilith Institute Support The Next Generation of StorytellersTake A Professional Education CourseGet Involved With Trilith InstituteContact Us Follow Us On Social Media! Trilith Institute Talks InstagramTrilith Institute InstagramTrilith Institute FacebookTrilith Institute LinkedIn
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Episode 1x09 - Elaine Hendrix | A Journey Through Acting and Advocacy

    Episode 1x09 - Elaine Hendrix | A Journey Through Acting and Advocacy
    Jun 6 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft welcomes actress and animal rights activist Elaine Hendrix. Known for her roles as Meredith Blake in 'The Parent Trap' and Alexis Carrington in 'Dynasty,' Elaine, along with acting student guests Sam and Mia, discuss various acting methods, breaking into the industry, and sustaining creativity in the age of digital storytelling... Participants share personal tales, industry insights, and the importance of professional resilience. Elaine emphasizes the critical role of proper training, the influence of social media on modern acting careers, and the profound impact of learning to regulate one’s nervous system. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction and Rehearsal Insights 00:16 - Welcome to Truth Institute Talks 00:49 - Meet the Guests: Sam and Mia 02:12 - Elaine Hendrix Joins the Conversation 06:22 - Elaine's Journey into Acting 09:52 - Navigating the Industry: Atlanta vs. LA 16:53 - The Impact of Social Media on Acting 26:16 - Challenges of Self-Taping and Auditions 30:16 - The Importance of Training and Professionalism 30:30 - Booking Dynasty: A Journey Through Seasons 32:29 - Staying Humble in the Acting Industry 34:57 - Mental Health and Rejection in Acting 43:26 - Daily Life on Set: From Call Times to Downtime 51:12 - Acting Techniques and Continuous Learning 56:52 - The Impact of Dance on Acting 01:00:31 - Closing Remarks and Podcast Information Film Industry Terminology In This Episode
    • ADR - this acronym stands for "automated dialogue replacement", a process of re-recording audio in a studio to improve sound quality or change dialogue.

    • Fittings - costume fittings are a regular part of an actor's life... Every episode, and usually every scene, requires multiple options of wardrobe for the director, producers, and the actor themselves to choose from, so actors are regularly brought in to try on new costumes.

    • Headshot - a printed photo showcasing an actor's appearance; usually printed on 8.5x11 letter photo paper and sent to casting agencies and casting directors to promote an actor for casting considerations.

    • Basecamp PA - this Production Assistant oversees the day to day life at "basecamp" on a film set, which usually means they notify actors at their trailers when they are needed on set, or at the hair and makeup trailer before going to set... Basecamp PA's also track all times for actors and stunt performers, which are then reported back to the Production Office (and SAG) the next day.

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Episode 1x08 - Myles Humphus | Smashing Into The World of Stunts

    Episode 1x08 - Myles Humphus | Smashing Into The World of Stunts
    May 30 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! In this episode of Trilith Institute Talks, host Hunter Barcroft chats with Stunt Coordinator and Stunt Double for Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Myles Humphus... Joined by film students Davis and Rosa, the discussion delves into the relationship between Directors and Stunt Coordinators, the intricacies of working with actors who perform their own stunts, and the unique fighting styles brought to life in action films... Myles shares his journey from working on football commercials to MMA fighting and ultimately to stunt coordination on major projects like NBC's 'The Equalizer.' The panel explores various aspects of stunt work, including preparation, safety, and the art of storytelling through physical action. The episode offers valuable insights for aspiring filmmakers looking to understand the nuanced roles and challenges of stunt performers in the film industry. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Stunt Filmmaking 00:15 - Meet the Host and Guests 00:58 - Miles Humphess: Career Beginnings 01:48 - Challenges and Triumphs in Stunt Work 05:15 - The Reality of Background Performers 12:31 - Breaking into the Stunt Industry 17:05 - Training and Skills for Stunt Performers 20:28 - Directing and Choreographing Stunt Scenes 30:11 - Speculating on Extraction 3 30:34 - Director Involvement in Stunt Coordination 33:14 - Understanding Previs 34:22 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 36:17 - The Importance of Collaboration 41:24 - Acting in Stunts 43:42 - Writing and Stunt Coordination 48:59 - Character-Specific Fight Styles 52:03 - Using Doubles Effectively 54:16 - Balancing Actor and Double Dynamics 58:49 - Conclusion and Credits Film Industry Terminology In This Episode
    • PreViz - a filmed / virtual previsualuzation of a scene that references the action beats of the scene; often used as a way for Stunt departments to show the stunts in a particular scene to a director before they actually film the scene on set.

    • SAG - the Screen Actor's Guild is the organization that represents performers and media professionals who work in film, TV, radio, games and more.

    • Steadicam - a steadicam is a camera stabilizer mount for motion picture cameras. This makes the camera almost seem as if it's floating throughout a space.

    • Stunt double - a physical "double" of an actor, a Stunt Double is a stunt performer who is dressed to copy the look of a specific actor on a film set and perform their specific stunts.

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    1 hr
  • Episode 1x07 - Mariam Yacoub | Coordinating Life & The Production Office

    Episode 1x07 - Mariam Yacoub | Coordinating Life & The Production Office
    May 23 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! Host Hunter Barcroft chats with Production Coordinator Mariam Yacoub, alongside film students Amber and Matt, discussing different pathways into film production, working on projects with variously-sized budgets, and essential skills for aspiring Office PA's. Miriam reflects on her career journey from Florida to Georgia, working on Marvel Studios projects and most recently Clint Eastwood's 'Juror No. 2.' Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Unlocking the Secrets to Breaking into the Film Industry 00:18 - Welcome to Trillith Institute Talks: A Deep Dive with Miriam Yacoub 00:52 - Journey to Production: Miriam's Path from Florida to Marvel Studios 01:20 - Film Students Amber and Matt Share Their Aspirations and Challenges 03:51 - Navigating the Film Industry: From Internships to Production Roles 16:06 - The Production Office: A Behind-the-Scenes Look with Miriam 20:51 - Craft Service Insights and the Importance of Small Details 23:12 - Exploring Film School Experiences and Future Aspirations 27:11 - Discovering Talent and Artistic Journeys 27:38 - The Evolution of Film in Georgia 28:12 - The Indie Film Scene: A Closer Look 30:23 - Career Aspirations and Work-Life Balance 30:57 - Debunking Production Misconceptions 34:38 - The Importance of People Skills in Production 39:45 - Navigating Career Challenges in the Film Industry 42:02 - Educational Insights for Aspiring Filmmakers 49:47 - Redefining Work-Life Balance in Filmmaking 51:44 - Georgia's Growing Film Industry: Opportunities and Insights 53:05 - Closing Thoughts and Resources Film Industry Terminology In This Episode

    Basecamp - the physical location where all cast and producer trailers exist on a film set. Also usually home to both hair and makeup trailers, as well as the costumes dept trailer.

    Exhibit G - a physical document that tracks all information regarding cast member in, out and lunch times on any given day of a film shoot. This data is recorded and reported to SAG.

    PR - slang term for a Production Report, which is a legal document generated by the Production Office staff for every shoot day on a film or project... This document records all data for any given day, and is meant to reflect what happened on the day to the smallest detail.

    UPM - a Unit Production Manager is the highest tier of employment in the Production Office, is technically recognized as a union position under the DGA (Director's Guild of America).

    COI's - a certificate of insurance generated to provide film industry vendors or property owners with proof that your production is insured for filming

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    54 mins
  • Episode 1x06 - John Blanford & Dan McDonough | From Set PAs To Producing Their First Feature Film

    Episode 1x06 - John Blanford & Dan McDonough | From Set PAs To Producing Their First Feature Film
    May 16 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! This episode of Trilith Institute Talks features a detailed conversation with Producers John Blanford, and Dan McDonough of Pastime Pictures, who share their journey in the film industry, from starting as set production assistants (Set PAs) in Atlanta to producing their first feature film, 'The Boys of Summer.' Host Hunter Barcroft, alongside recent film graduate Aaron, delves into various aspects of filmmaking, including the transition from AD's (Assistant Director's) to Producer, the importance of a supportive and communicative set environment, the impact of technological advancements like virtual stages, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the demanding film industry. The discussion touches on themes of empowerment, creativity, and the evolving landscape of film production. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks: The Journey of Filmmakers 00:46 - Introducing the Producers of Boys of Summer 01:26 - The Unique Paths into the Film Industry 08:26 - The Power of Adaptation and Learning on Set 10:18 - Transitioning from AD to Producer: A Learning Curve 13:19 - The Continuous Learning Journey in Filmmaking 15:52 - Navigating Challenges and Trust on Set 17:41 - Creating a Positive Set Culture with Pastime Pictures 23:03 - Reflecting on the Evolution of Set Culture in Atlanta 27:12 - The Importance of Experimentation and Learning in Filmmaking 29:04 - Overcoming Nervousness and Learning to Communicate on Set 30:46 - Navigating the Rolodex: Climbing the Industry Ladder 31:31 - The Coffee Catastrophe: A Lesson in Persistence 35:43 - From PA to Producer: Building a Brand During COVID 39:20 - Securing Mel Gibson: The High-Stakes Journey of 'Boys of Summer' 44:21 - Navigating Challenges: Animals, Budgets, and Work-Life Balance 51:19 - Embracing Change: Learning from the Next Generation 57:12 - Shifting Industry Paradigms: A Vision for a Better Work-Life Balance Film Industry Terminology In This Episode

    Set PA’s: non-union, bottom of the totem pole workers on a film set (set production assistants)

    First Team: a slang term referring to the cast/ acting talent on a film of movie

    Day Playing: the act of working occasional days on a film set as part of the production staff

    AD’ing: the act and/ or job of Assistant Directing on a film set

    "Surfing The Channels": the act of flipping from channel to channel on a walkie talkie, which is widely used to communicate across departments on a film set

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Episode 1x05 - Kurt Kornemann | A Key Grip's Journey in Filmmaking

    Episode 1x05 - Kurt Kornemann | A Key Grip's Journey in Filmmaking
    May 9 2024
    Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! This episode of Trilith Institute Talks, hosted by Hunter Barcroft, features an engaging conversation with Kurt Kornemann, a seasoned Key Grip with experience on high-profile films such as Spy Kids, Zero Dark Thirty, True Grit, Rushmore, Selena, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3... Kurt walks us through his role on set, the responsibilities of being a Key Grip, and the creative and technical challenges that Key Grips face in the film industry. The discussion also explores Kurt's career journey, from his early fascination with film to his experiences on various movie sets, including his work on Selena and with visionary directors like Quentin Tarantino... He shares insights on the evolution of filmmaking, the impact of filming location on production, and the essence of teamwork in creating cinematic magic. Additionally, film students Matt and AJ share their aspirations and experiences in the industry, highlighting the influence of figures like Robert Rodriguez on their careers. The episode delves into the changes in movie-making techniques, the importance of keeping a crew well-fed, and the future of storytelling in the era of short-form content. Kurt's stories reveal the gritty, thrilling, and often unpredictable world of film production, emphasizing the passion, resilience, and creativity required to succeed in the industry we all love. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Sunday Mornings with Selena: A Nostalgic Start / Cold Open 00:16 - Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks: Behind the Scenes with Kurt Kornemann 00:43 - The Life of a Key Grip: Kurt's Journey in Film 03:42 - From PA to Key Grip: Kurt's Path to Success 07:31 - Inspiring the Next Generation: Trilith Institute's Script to Screen Summer Camp 09:04 - The Magic of Filmmaking: Personal Journeys and Inspirations 15:51 - Craft Service: The Unsung Heroes of Film Sets 17:30 - The Evolution of a Film Career: From PA to AD 19:56 - The Future of Filmmaking in the Age of Short-Form Content 20:29 - Exploring the Evolution of Movie Runtimes 21:14 - The Business Model of Short Films 22:24 - Navigating Hollywood's Consolidation and Its Impact 24:11 - Screenwriting Essentials: A Course Overview 24:24 - The Dynamics of Film Production: From Indie to Blockbuster 25:12 - Crafting the Film: The Key Grip's Perspective 30:14 - Adventures and Challenges on International Sets 31:59 - The Economic and Cultural Impact of Filming in Georgia 36:12 - The Personal Journey of a Filmmaker in Georgia 42:52 - Reflecting on the Evolution of Film and Television 45:30 - Closing Thoughts and Podcast Information Film Industry Terminology In This Episode Boom - the microphone pole that Boom Operator's (Sound Dept) use to capture sound above actor's heads or outside of the image/ frame of any given shot on a movie or TV show. Key Grip - the leader of the Grip Dept, Key Grip's are typically responsible for all rigging and the shaping of light in any given camera shot. Condor - a very large crane; typically used to hold rigging and light shades/ screens above or to the side of a film set to help shade or shape the light you see on camera Locking Up - the act of making sure a film set is secured and cast/ crew are not needlessly walking around during a take. Could also mean traffic control, if shooting on or near an active roadway. Dolly - a typically large piece of machinery on wheels that is designed to move a camera along a track at a slow, steady pace. Dollies are used for long tracking shots where the camera "floats" through a set. Color Pass - the edited cut of a film or project that has been processed through color grading, to add whatever changes filmmakers might want to help or change the "look" of the shots that were captured while filming. AD - an abbreviated name for the title of Assistant Director. This term is widely used to address or refer to both the title of Assistant Director itself, or the entire Assistant Director department on a film crew (AD Dept). Keying - technically speaking, this lingo has two separate meanings! In this episode, keying refers to the act of being second in command in a department.. "Keys" is a term widely used as a second in command of most departments on a film crew. Best Boy - the "Key" or second in command of the Grip department (or Set Lighting department). Giraffe Crane - a large crane with a long neck, that can be used on a film set for a variety of purposes. Walk & Talk - a scene in a show/ movie where two or more actors are walking from point to point while having a conversation with eachother. Jib - a camera crane that can raise and lower a camera in and out of a shot as needed Stakebed - a large utility vehicle that is made to move a large amount of gear to and from set/ filming location. About Trilith Institute Support The Next Generation of StorytellersTake A Professional Education CourseGet Involved With Trilith InstituteContact Us Follow Us On Social Media...
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    47 mins