Episode 200: To The Stars Through Hardship – Per Aspera Ad Astra!

Welcome to the latest episode of Documentary First, as we celebrate a momentous achievement: Our 200th Episode!

Join Christian and Jason as they dive deep into the past four years of our thought-provoking and inspiring podcast. Together, they remind us of the indispensable quality that every filmmaker must possess: tenacity. Prepare to be encouraged and motivated as they unveil the secrets to success in the ever-evolving world of cinema.

For a filmmaker, perseverance is the key that unlocks the gateway to the stars. These stars can take many forms, both figurative and literal, representing the pinnacle of our aspirations.

Just like steadfast guides, the stars watch over us, ever-present and within our grasp. They serve as a constant reminder that even though our goals may seem distant, they remain visible and within reach. With every courageous step we take towards our cinematic vision, we are bound to encounter challenges along the way. But fear not! These very adversities become the stepping stones that lead us towards the dazzling radiance of the stars we were destined to reach.

Get ready to be inspired as we continue to share the remarkable odyssey of filmmaking. We have an abundance of new, talented filmmakers waiting in the wings, eager to join us and delve into their unique processes and awe-inspiring experiences. It’s a rollercoaster ride you won’t want to miss!

And that’s not all! Brace yourselves, because DocuView Déjà Vu is making a triumphant return! Get ready to rediscover your love for documentary films and relive those unforgettable cinematic moments.

So buckle up, dear listeners, as we embark on another thrilling chapter filled with passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of our cinematic dreams. Welcome to a podcast that will ignite your imagination and leave you craving more. Let’s make magic happen together!

Summary

• Intro to Documentary First. 0:00
  • Welcome back to Documentary First and inside look at a documentary filmmaker journey.
  • Episode 200.
  • How the podcast was born.
• Being an improviser as a filmmaker. 6:01
  • Finding volunteers and flying people across the world.
  • Being an improviser, solving problems.
  • Journey from not finished movie to completed movie.
  • Heroes of Carentan.
• How the film industry has changed. 10:59
  • How the world has changed since pre-Covid.
  • The challenges for independent filmmakers.
  • The art of turning adversity into advantage.
  • The difference between a filmmaker and everyone else.
  • The best piece of advice Jason has ever gotten.
  • Do the next thing first.
• How did Jason become a voice actor? 17:28
  • Pursuing voice acting and animation.
  • How the pandemic changed the animation industry.
  • How Covid-19 has lowered the standards of what is acceptable.
  • Tiktok vs Instagram.
• The problem with Social Media and content. 21:26
  • How people consume Tiktok and Instagram reels.
  • How film is designed to make you feel.
  • Making a deal with the devil.
  • Why independent filmmakers need to market their films.
  • The marketing strategy for God’s Not Dead.
• Encounter with General JP McGee. 28:21
  • How Christian met General JP McGee, commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division.
  • Partnership with the 101st Airborne Division
  • Powerful interviews with the 101st Airborne Division.
  • The synergy of past and present coming through the interviews
  • The cost of combat.
• Do not give up on your film. 34:11
  • Heart comes through in everything at Doc First.
  • Word of encouragement, don’t quit.
  • DocuView Déjà Vu Segment
  • Book: The Obstacle is the Way
  • Coming soon to the podcast – New filmmakers in the wings!

DocuView Déjà Vu:

Jason – Still: A Michael J Fox Movie, 2023, Rated R, 95 mins on Apple+, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt19853258/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_still

Christian – The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, Rated R, 2023, 97 mins, Rent or buy on Prime Video or inflight in United Airlines, IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12380422/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_7_tt_8_nm_0_q_the%2520sublte

“A Man Called Otto” – 2022, 126 mins, PG13, in flight on United Airlines, IMDB Link:https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7405458/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_a%2520man%2520called