Respect The Process

Commercial and documentary director Tony Franklin returns to share a remarkable journey through his creative world. From his early days in Target's creative department to becoming an acclaimed filmmaker, Tony shares the inspiring story behind his documentary "The Big Green House" - a passion project that took six years to complete and chronicles an extraordinary Minneapolis family who housed 80 people in need. We dive deep into the...

Investing in yourself is the ultimate career hack. When you believe in your vision enough to create something - even on the side, even without guaranteed success - you open doors that might never have existed. Joseph Kosinski didn't wait for permission; he made a CGI short in his apartment, submitted it to festivals, and that single act of creative courage launched his entire career. His journey proves that investing in YOURSELF, d...

The secret sauce is humans in front of an behind the camera. AI filmmaking can do it all, but I don't think it cuts it alone, just yet. Just me walking you through my "AI Sandwich" technique—a creative approach I believe will empower filmmakers and stretch budgets without sacrficing craft or human connection. Not saying my video is great, but the idea works.

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '25
Thursday, September 25th –...

Director Matt Macedo, the OG of this emerging vertical feature format, breaks it down for us. These aren't just quick clips—we're talking full 80 plus page scripts shot in five to ten days, distributed in bite-sized, addictive chunks. Matt's navigating this whole new world of cinema, where platforms like Reel Short are making billions and giving young filmmakers unprecedented opportunities. It's the Wild West of story...

Lucinda, a badass 8th generation Missouri farmer, takes on the meat industry and proves ethical farming isn't just possible, it's profitable. Watch "Trust The System" my short documentary (under 19 minutes) on YouTube... I know you'll love it. Thanks!

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '25
Thursday, September 25th – Sunday, September 28th, 2025. Limit 15 Filmmakers. This will be our 4th year and it's so special, I'd prefer...

Director Bryan Buckley, a two-time Oscar-nominated writer/director, has earned the nickname “King of the Super Bowl” from The New York Times for directing 71 Super Bowl commercials since 2000. A co-founder of Hungry Man, Buckley’s work has been recognized with over 60 Cannes Lions (including two Grand Prix wins), multiple Emmys, a DGA Award, and induction into the MoMA permanent collection. In 20...

Monday, May 19th at 10am Pacific, I'm giving a live workshop on the Filmmakers Academy platform. "Directing Actors: From Casting to Final Cut."

I love working with actors, and I believe their performances are what truly sell a commercial. I'll be covering everything from initial conversations with casting directors to communicating with editors about the best takes and how to perserve the tone of the spot. So pumped about our Filmm...

I sit down with Tony Low, Owner and President of CMS Productions, to dive deep into the current state of commercial production. Tony reveals how union compliance really works and why major brands are suddenly creating their own studios. He breaks down the "flip" phenomenon on set and explains why Los Angeles is losing its production mojo. This is the real, unfiltered story of what's happening in production right now. Thanks Tony!

When he's not shooting, filmmaker Dustin Devlin is likely out surfing on the Cape or soft-rocking (barefoot) somewhere. Moving from the editor suite to the director’s chair and everything in between, Dustin is enamored with the production process and knows the TLC required to nurture each project from beginning to end. Dustin co-founded VAGRANTS out of a need and passion to disrupt the status quo in the industry.

FILM...

Director Scott McCullough's career trajectory reads like a Hollywood fever dream. From shooting intimate music videos with Prince to capturing the raw energy of NASCAR and crafting cinematic commercials for Kubota and Pepsi, Scott's journey is a masterclass in creative adaptability. We dive deep into the art of networking, the importance of staying curious, and how a filmmaker can transform unexpected opportunities into a remarkabl...

Val Kilmer was more than a movie star—he was a father, a poet, an actor, and an enigma. But above all, he was a generous soul who deeply understood the importance of creating meaningful moments. When our sons were in grade school together, Val invited my family on an unforgettable camping trip to his sprawling ranch in New Mexico. Every activity he planned was designed to build lasting mem...

My friends fimmakers Mike Slane and Ade Bishop are the creative duo behind Practice, a commercial directing studio known for their whimsical mixed-media animation. They've worked on projects for Sesame Street, Thumbtack, and Blonde Beards, bringing characters to life with a unique blend of practical effects and digital magic. Their approach is all about play, creativity, and finding joy in the process. Check out there site or visit...

Mack Garrison, the co-founder and creative director of Dash Studio, a motion design agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Mack and I cover a ton of ground in this conversation - from his adventures hiking in Patagonia, to the origin story of starting his own studio, to the importance of building genuine relationships in this industry. We also dive into the challenges of balancing creativity and business realities, and Mack share...

My esteemed guest is PJ Pereira, a true creative pioneer at the intersection of advertising, storytelling, and artificial intelligence. As co-founder of Pereira O’Dell, he has led groundbreaking AI-driven campaigns (see: Coca Cola's ai made "Holidays Are Coming") that push the boundaries of modern marketing. A thought leader in the industry, PJ explores how AI enhances creativity, shaping the future of advertising and branded conte...

A pleasure to chat with Charles Barclay, the founder of Hollywood Secret Service. He's a master of director's treatments and more. Check out my rant about treatments in Little Black Book.

COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP 04.05.2025
Filmmakers learn how to win jobs and craft better work that leads to more opportunities. Agency creatives will learn how the flow goes on-set before the shoot. Limit 10 filmmakers. Includes one-on-one onboa...

As I sit in my trailer-studio, "Breezy," we call her, I can't help but reflect on the journey that has brought me here. From my early days watching Steve Martin on SNL to the evolution of my own creative path, the pursuit of artistry has been a constant companion. This is just me, share insights on committing to your passion projects, embracing change, and finding fulfillment in the very process of creating. I hope this rambling re...

Chris Salters, editor and founder of Sawtooth, tells us the importance of using the right tool for the right job in filmmaking. Whether it's LED walls, green screens, or AI-powered tools, the key is understanding the limitations and challenges of each technology and using them responsibly to achieve the desired creative outcome. It's about leveraging technology in a thoughtful and effective manner. Chris and I are both passionate a...

Editor Chris Salters launched Sawtooth, his own freelance-driven editorial house. Chris and I talk about how he's providing an all-in-one post solution for agencies and brands. We unpack the evolving role of AI in post-production, and we dive into his work in spots obviously. I love his work on the Pinocchio documentary by Guillermo del Toro, where managing massive amounts of footage was key. Of course we must about the future of A...

Writer/Director/Producer Micheal Patrick Jann ("Drop Dead Gorgeous", "The State", "The Good Doctor") and I are holding a live webinar called "Make Your Passion Project Now" on Feb. 18th. 6pm Pacific. Live with a spirited Q&A and VIP pop ins. Sign up here.

100% of the ticket sales go to Red Cross LA to help the victims of the LA fires. Graciously hosted by our dear friends at the Filmmakers Academy.

Born of a chat Michael and I were...