Texas Film in Focus Podcast
By Texas Film in Focus
Originally presented by Hyperreal Film Club.
Texas Film in Focus PodcastJul 16, 2021
Ep 22 | Chistes of Adolescence: Maria Mealla's Coming-of-Age Cinematic Journey
In this episode of Texas Film in Focus, we have Bolivian filmmaker Maria Mealla discussing her return to Austin and her experience navigating the film scene.
Maria shares her journey, revealing the rich tapestry of community and cross-craft collaboration that defines Austin's creative landscape. Her story takes us from the theater communities of Austin to the bustling film scene in San Francisco and back again, illuminating the contrasts and challenges along the way. She also takes us to the behind-the-scenes creation of LA MACANA, now streaming on Max. We also get a sneak peek at her next project JUANA PELOS filming in May!
Follow Maria on Instagram: @maria_mealla
https://www.mariamealla.com/
Maria's Bio:
MARIA MEALLA was raised in La Paz, Bolivia on a healthy balance of cultural folklore and Catholic superstition. She moved to Austin, TX where she studied Theater Arts before moving to the Bay Area, where she ventured into filmmaking and taught herself the craft through work-trade. She is Head of Production at Glass and Marker, a full-service creative studio in Oakland, California.
Mealla was selected to participate in the 2019 Artist in Residency program at the Napa Film Festival with her feature debut, BRING ME AN AVOCADO, a Cinequest Audience Award winner streaming on Amazon Prime. She is a 2022 Sidewalk Narrative Labs Fellow. Her latest project in development, BODY SHOP, was selected as a finalist in the 2023 Tribeca Untold Stories competition and pitched live during the festival. Her short film LA MACANA, won HBO's 2023 Pa'lante Competition and is currently streaming on Max.
Most recently, Maria was selected as a Latino Public Broadcasting grantee for her short film JUANA PELOS which will be going into production in Spring 2024.
Maria likes to think of her stories as the arroz con huevo of films: Comforting, unassuming, simple in their magic, and easy to digest.
Texas Film in Focus Podcast Links:
Follow the Texas Film in Focus podcast on TikTok and Instagram @tfif_podcast
Texas Film in Focus on YouTube
Follow Host Samantha Rae Lopez on Instagram
Tom Copeland | The Austin Chronicle : https://www.austinchronicle.com/daily/screens/2024-04-10/tom-copeland-behind-the-scenes-powerhouse-of-texas-film-dies/
Ep 21 | E’an Verdugo, Caleb Davis, and RESTORAGE - Live from Samdance 2024
The last episode of the Samdance series is hitting the airwaves today! Live from Slamdance 2024, E’an Verdugo and Caleb Davis, the maverick duo behind the award– winning series talk about their project “Restorage.” E’an and Caleb share their journey from a chance meeting at UNT to creating a series with a punk-rock twist, proving that a mix of comedy, drama, and friendship can forge a unique path in cinema. Discover how their storage unit set became a portal for storytelling and why choosing the road less traveled can lead to the most fulfilling destinations in independent television. Our infectious conversation will inspire you to embrace creativity and humor, no matter how unconventional the route.
Follow Caleb - @calebkeithdavis
Follow E'an - @eanverdugo
Texas Film in Focus Podcast Links:
Follow the Texas Film in Focus podcast on TikTok and Instagram @tfif_podcast
Texas Film in Focus on YouTube
Follow Host Samantha Rae Lopez on Instagram
Ep 20 | Olivia Kuan & THE HERRICANES - Live from Samdance 2024
Hey y'all! Welcome back to Texas Film in Focus! This is the third installment of the Samdance Series! Today, we've got a real treat for you – an exclusive chat with Houston filmmaker, Olivia Kuan. We're diving deep into the story behind her awesome documentary, "The Herricanes," which made its splash at SXSW winning several awards and rocked the screens at Slamdance in 2024. Join us as Olivia reflects on what inspired her to create her most personal project yet.
Olivia brings a special touch to her storytelling, and "The Herricanes" is no exception. We're going behind the scenes to uncover the heart and soul of this film, exploring themes of resilience, community, and the powerful Texan spirit in the face of life's curveballs.
Follow The Herricanes film on Instagram @theherricanes
Follow Olivia Kuan on Instagram @wilderkuan
Texas Film in Focus Podcast Links:
Follow the Texas Film in Focus podcast on TikTok and Instagram @tfif_podcast
Texas Film in Focus on YouTube
Follow Host Samantha Rae Lopez on Instagram
Ep 19 | Cynthia Garcia-Williams & LEGEND OF EL CUCUY - Live from Samdance 2024
Step into the shadows with the latest episode of Texas Film in Focus, where the amazing Afro-Latina filmmaker, Cynthia Garcia-Williams, takes us behind the scenes of the mysterious world of her short film, "Legend of El Cucuy." Prepare to be inspired and thoroughly entertained as we delve into the depths of this boogeyman-inspired cinematic adventure.
Live from Slamdance 2024, Cynthia shares how she brought the legendary El Cucuy to life on the big screen. She also shares how her identity shaped the creation of the project and how her authentic casting is an integral component of the film.
Watch Legend of El Cucuy Trailer on YouTube
Follow Legend of El Cucuy on Instagram @legendofelcucuy
Follow Cynthia Garcia-Williams on Instagram @cynthiagwilliams
Texas Film in Focus Podcast Links:
Follow the Texas Film in Focus podcast on TikTok and Instagram @tfif_podcast
Texas Film in Focus on YouTube
Follow Host Samantha Rae Lopez on Instagram
Ep 18 | Cast & crew of DARUMA - Live from Samdance 2024
The film industry's representation of disability is a vital topic, and in this episode, we shed light on the film industry's evolving representation of disability through our spotlight on 'Daruma.' Hear from the talents behind the scenes, like director Alexander Yellen and writer-producer Kelli McNeil Yellen, and their dedication to making a splash at the festival. We also delve into the tenacious advocacy of John Lawson's consistent dedication to inclusive storytelling.
Links:
Daruma Movie: https://www.darumamovie.com/
Daruma (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/DarumaMovie/
Slamdance Daruma article: https://www.filminquiry.com/slamdance-ff-2024-daruma-interview/
Follow the Texas Film in Focus podcast on TikTok and Instagram @tfif_podcast
Follow Sam on Instagram
Episode 18 Show Notes & Transcript can be found here:
Ep 17 | TFIF Crossover: TIF Voices, Flamin' Hot
Today's episode is another crossover episode with the TIF Voices podcast, an audio outlet for Tejanas in Film, a collective that aims to empower Latina filmmakers in Texas.
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🔥🔥🔥Get ready for an extra picante new episode of TIF Voices! This week, three Tejanas in Film members deliver a scorching review of the film "Flamin' Hot" directed by Corpus Christi native Eva Longoria. Join us as we explore the flavors, the drama, and the behind-the-scenes heat that went into creating this cinematic treat. We bring our personal stories and a few crunch-tastic sounds to the airwaves for your listening pleasure.
👑 Your hosts are Tejanas in Film members Sharon Arteaga (@sharonarte) , Cristina Gonzalez (@cinecristina) and Priscilla Gutierrez (@sunshinesmileluv)
From the fiery performances to the bold storytelling, we leave no page unturned in our discussion of "Flamin' Hot." Our passionate panel of filmmakers explores the cultural impact of "Flamin' Hot" and how it has left its mark on the film industry and in our hearts. Is it a spicy success or a lukewarm attempt? Tune in to TIF Voices to find out!
✨ Rate, Review, and Subscribe to TIF Voices! Let's amplify diverse voices and celebrate the magic of storytelling together! 🎉
Ep 16 | TFIF Crossover: TIF Voices, The Barbie Movie
Today's episode is a crossover episode with the TIF Voices podcast, an audio outlet for Tejanas in Film, a collective that aims to empower Latina filmmakers in Texas.
After a long hiatus, TIF Voices is back with this episode focused on a cultural icon, Barbie. Sparked by Greta Gerwig's smash summer blockbuster, we embark on a journey into the pink world of Barbie through a Latina lens. Join our insightful discussion as we explore Barbie's impact on our young minds and its representation of Latina culture. Our hosts share personal anecdotes and reflections, adding depth to the conversation about the impact of popular culture on shaping societal perceptions.
From the Dreamhouse to the big screen, Barbie has been a symbol of aspiration for generations. But what does this mean for Latina audiences? Our hosts delve into the movie's themes, characters, and narratives, examining how Barbie's world intersects with and reflects the experiences of Latina individuals.
👑 Your hosts are Tejanas in Film members Sharon Arteaga (@sharonarte) , Cristina Gonzalez (@cinecristina) and Samantha Rae Lopez (@sraelopez)
🌟 Whether you grew up with Barbie or are discovering her world for the first time, this episode promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of identity, representation, and the power of storytelling. Join us as we unpack the layers of the Barbie movie through the vibrant tapestry of the Latina experience.
✨ Rate, Review, and Subscribe to TIF Voices! Let's amplify diverse voices and celebrate the magic of storytelling together! 🎉
Ep 15 | April M. Sanchez's Magical World of Screenwriting
Settle in for this lively episode of Texas Film in Focus featuring the incredibly talented April M. Sanchez! In this edition, April spills the beans on her journey from filling in Mad Libs as a child to crafting screenplays that captivate audiences.
Join the laughter of this lively interview as April shares her early writing escapades, where the rich tapestry of her Latina roots began weaving its way into her stories. From childhood musings to the world of screenwriting classes and fellowships, discover the twists and turns that shaped her path.
But that's not all – April brings her vibrant cultural perspective to the forefront, highlighting her focus on cultural work as a Latina woman in the world of storytelling. Learn how her heritage influences her narratives, adding a colorful layer to her scripts that resonate with audiences far and wide.
The fun doesn't stop there! April outlines her latest escapade – dipping her toes into the pixelated universe of video game writing. Join us for a playful discussion on the challenges and joys of crafting interactive narratives that reflect the diverse stories of our world.
See more of April's work here: www.amsanchezmedia.com
Follow the Texas Film in Focus podcast on Tik Tok and Instagram @tfif_podcast
Episode 15 Show Notes & Transcript can be found here:
Ep 14 | Fantastic (Fest) Filmmakers
Fantastic Fest attracts film aficionados of the weirdest, wildest kind to Austin, TX each fall. I got the chance to sit down with two short filmmakers who were part of the festival to cover a wide range of topics, from using practical effects for horror to starting your career during a double union strike.
Find Chris McInroy's work on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/chrismcinroy
Follow Andrew Parkerton on Instagram: @andrewparkerton
Follow the Texas Film in Focus podcast on Tik Tok and Instagram @tfif_podcast
Episode 14 Show Notes & Transcript can be found here:
Ep 13 | We are back, baby! The Doc Duo Behind Sol to Seoul
Bex Rodriguez and Hannah Zamora are a dynamic documentary duo tackling the wild world of climbing media. Their most recent project Sol to Seoul is currently crowdfunding on Seed & Spark, a fundraising platforms for filmmakers. In this discussion, we learn about how they started, how they found each other and how their work is changing the landscape of the climbing world one lost drone at a time.
Follow the film on Instagram @soltoseoulfilm
Follow Bex Rodriguez on Insta @bxrodfilms
Follow Hannah Zamora on Insta @hannahmariemedia
The Sol to Seoul filmmakers would like to thank the following sponsors:
- No Man's Land
- Austin Bouldering Project
- MPS
- Camlock Films
- 24 Cobras
- Access Fund
- Texas Lady Crushers,
- American Alpine Club
- Soul Mountain Farm
- San Luis Valley Climbers Alliance
- Movement Gym
Episode 13 Show Notes & Transcript can be found here:
https://bit.ly/TFIF13
Ep 12 | That's a Wrap! - Series Finale
The grand finale is upon us!! It's been a wild ride exploring as much of Texas film at break neck speed as possible. In Episode 12 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus, Sam (@sraelopez) closes out the series with creatives suggested by you! Listen to guests Jennifer Bracy, C.Diaz, and Hyperreal co-founder David McMichael speak on their distinctive communities and projects.
Episode 12 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus12
Ep 11 | Economic Impact of Media
Tax incentives or production rebates? Which is it!? What do they really mean and how do we get our hands on that $$$?? In Episode 11 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus, Sam (@sraelopez) demystifies incentives with guests Lindsey Ashley, Kim Le Blanc, Mindy Raymond, and Drew Mayer-Oakes and explores what regional film commissions in Texas bring to the equation.
Episode 11 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus11
Ep 10 | Filmmakers & Artists
In Episode 10 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus Sam (@sraelopez) stops and takes a closer peek into the careers and creative processes of guests Ya'ke Smith, Guillermina Zabala, Jay Roff-Garcia, Evelyn from the Internets, and Kelly Williams.
Episode 10 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus10
Ep 9 | Women in Film Part 2
You think we could fit all our women empowerment in just one episode? You must be joking! In Episode 9 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus, Sam (IG: @sraelopez) talks to Gail Cronauer, Stephanie Saint Sanchez, Angie Reza Tures, Iliana Sosa, Chelsea Hernandez, and Laura Kincaid — another round of amazing women on their experiences evolving and breaking through that glass ceiling.
Episode 9 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus9
Ep 8 | Women in Film Part 1
Who run the world? Y'all know we had to put the spotlight on the badass women in the industry. In Episode 8 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus, Sam (IG: @sraelopez) along with guests Mirasol Enriquez, Gail Cronauer, Giselle De La Rosa, and Cristin Stephens tackle the truth behind what it's like to be a woman in the Texas film industry.
Episode 8 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilminFocus8
Ep 7 | Preservation, Criticism, & Academia
Sam takes a step back and looks at the bigger picture of how to expand our horizon of expectation when talking about film. In Episode 7 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus, guests Michael Thievoldt, Caroline Frick, Marisa Mirabal, Mirasol Enriquez, and Ya'ke Smith, help probe fresh perspectives on the topics of archival preservation, film criticism, and academia in Texas.
Episode 7 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus7
Ep 6 | LGBTQ+ Visibility
Film broadens our scope of how we view ourselves and those around us. In Episode 6 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus, Sam (IG: @sraelopez) looks at the Texas film scene through the lens of LGBTQ+ in terms of identity, visibility, and access with guests Curran Nault, Kristian Salinas, Stephanie Saint Sanchez, Bears Rebecca Fonte, and Yen Tan.
Episode 6 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus6
Click here to give Sam a lead for the last ep: https://bit.ly/SuggestSomething
Ep 5 | Youth Camps and Showcases
The future of film lies in the hands of the next generation of storytellers. In Episode 5 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus, Sam (IG: @sraelopez) gets at the heart of youth programs & showcases with guests Emily Hagins, Sylvia Butanda, Bears Rebecca Fonte, Linda Seto, Frank Sanchez, Guillermina Zabala, and Esmeralda Hernandez. Episode 5 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus5
Ep 4 | Video Stores and Curated Exhibitions
Where to worship at the altar of cinema? From video stores to pop up screenings, Episode 4 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus explores the role of curation and community in an individual’s proficiency in film. Host Samantha Rae Lopez taps into the minds of Jay Roff-Garcia, Rick Martinez, Maxim Pozderac, and Chale Nafus on the subject. Episode 4 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus4
Ep 3 | Filmmaker Support
Show me the money! Episode 3 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus tracks down the essentials all filmmakers need, community support, and project funding. Sam talks to Michelle Mower, Alfred Cervantes, Holly Herrick, Erica Deiparine Sugars, and Faiza Kracheni on what makes the film community in Texas so unique and how they do their part to keep the cameras rolling. Episode 3 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocus3
Ep 2 | Fest People
Coming back for more? Episode 2 of Hyperreal Film Club presents: Texas Film in Focus will not disappoint. Sam (IG: @sraelopez) admits her deep dark secret of being... a FEST person *dun dun dun!* Find out what it means to be a fest person and learn all about the inner workings of film festivals in Texas. David Gil, Jean Anne Lauer, Alfred Cervantes, Kelly Williams, Linda & Harry Eaddy, and Giselle de la Rosa help us navigate the festival landscape and all of its offerings. Episode 2 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocusEp2
Ep 1 | Cinema Houses
In the first episode of Hyperreal Film Club Presents: Texas Film in Focus, Samantha Rae Lopez (IG: @sraelopez) starts us on her journey into the Texas film landscape by spotlighting movie theaters. Along with guests David Gil, Alfred Cervantes, Michelle Mower, and Jazmyne Moreno, Samantha dives into several different cinemas, big and small, and how important programming is to their identities. Episode 1 transcript and show notes can be found here: https://bit.ly/TexFilmInFocusEp1