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November 8, 2023 56 mins

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Fasten your seatbelts, film enthusiasts! This episode is a rare treat as we sit down with the brilliant director Tom Putnam for a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at his latest feature film, 'The Dark Divide.' He reveals the highs and lows of shooting in remote wilderness locations, managing a star-studded cast, and the essential role that visual effects played in bringing the story to life. It's a fascinating peek into indie filmmaking and an exploration into the intriguing real-life story of nature writer Robert Pyle.

Buckle up for an enlightening discussion on managing a feature film production on a shoestring budget. Tom provides an in-depth look at how he creatively wove hundreds of visual effects shots into the film, whilst maintaining a tight budget. Get ready to learn about the critical importance of relationships in the film industry, and how they played a significant role in the creation of 'The Dark Divide.' The amusing Bigfoot scenes, the dramatic performances from comedic actors David Cross and Debra Messing, and the challenges of releasing a film during the COVID-19 pandemic: there's a lot to unpack!

Prepare to be amazed at the power of visual effects in indie filmmaking. Tom talks about how VFX can enhance the narrative, even when you're working with limited resources. You'll get a unique insight into how filmmakers can use VFX to combine takes, fix technical glitches, and create a more dynamic and realistic production. Hear how Tom used VFX to add depth and progress to the film, and how creative solutions were used to navigate the challenges that arose during the making of 'The Dark Divide.' By the time we wrap up, you'll have a newfound appreciation for the magic of indie filmmaking and the creative minds that make it happen.

Watch the film here

Hosted by Foxtrot X-Ray’s founder and “chief pixel pusher” Paul DeNigris, who brings to the conversation 30 years of experience in both independent filmmaking and visual effects, as well as 20 years of experience in teaching all aspects of digital filmmaking at the university level.

For episodes, transcripts, and more, visit http://vfxforindies.com

For more information about what Foxtrot X-Ray can do for your film, visit https://foxtrotxray.com

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