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The Mighty Dragon podcast

The Mighty Dragon podcast

By Victoria Thomas

The Mighty Dragon blog collection of podcasts with writers and filmmakers.
We review popular films and TV series to study characters, narrative and themes.
Interviews with actors from Star Wars and Mindhunter.

Mainly clean but some swearing throughout! ;)
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Currently playing episode

The Mighty Dragon reviews McDonald & Dodds and Escape from Pretoria with AV Turner.

The Mighty Dragon podcastApr 01, 2021

00:00
22:20
Podcast with Obi-Wan Kenobi actress Marise Alvarez #castinterview

Podcast with Obi-Wan Kenobi actress Marise Alvarez #castinterview

Head on over to The Mighty Dragon blog for my interview with Marise Alvarez.

https://themightydragon.blog/2022/07/16/the-mighty-dragon-podcast-with-marise-alvarez-obiwankenobi-nyche/

Feb 22, 202427:21
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Adrian Schiller (Æthelhelm)

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Adrian Schiller (Æthelhelm)

I am delighted to announce that actor Adrian Schiller joined me on the podcast to discuss his time on the hugely phenomenal The Last Kingdom series.

Followers of The Mighty Dragon Instagram account know that I have recently binge-watched the entire five series. So I am completely over the moon that my favourite bad guy from the series, Æthelhelm, is part of this interview collection.

Adrian discusses Æthelhelm, his favourite parts of his character, his motivations, and how the character immersed itself into The Last Kingdom. But were Athelhelm’s motivations misjudged?

Doting grandfather or evil mastermind? We discuss this and more, on The Mighty Dragon.

Feb 22, 202416:49
Podcast with Maria Austin #Mercy
Feb 22, 202433:26
Behind the scenes of Napoleon with Youssef Kerkour #Napoleon

Behind the scenes of Napoleon with Youssef Kerkour #Napoleon

Youssef Kerkour

Ridley Scott’s Napoleon returns to The Mighty Dragon with another great interview.

This week, I am speaking to Napoleon’s right-hand man, Marshal Davout. Or should I say Youssef Kerkour who portrayed this infamous soldier otherwise known as The Iron Marshal. Davout himself was a highly acclaimed general, being present at most of Napoleon’s battles. Devoted, driven and resilient, I can’t help but think Youssef was the right actor to portray him, as he has these qualities himself.

Napoleon isn’t the first time Youssef has worked with legendary director, Ridley Scott. He was also in House of Gucci, portraying Nemir Kirdar. We talk about Ridley Scott’s style of working, as well as Youssef’s preparation for his roles.

I am convinced that Youssef is the most prepared actor on set, cleverly adopting psychological practices to immerse himself in the role. His British and Moroccan heritage has given him access to many great parts, but we talk about how he “niched down” on his Arab heritage to gain even more exposure.


Feb 15, 202427:45
Podcast with Jimmy Dunn #Frasier

Podcast with Jimmy Dunn #Frasier

Jimmy Dunn

Frasier is taking over The Mighty Dragon once again.

Today’s guest is actor and stand-up comedian, Jimmy Dunn. Jimmy plays Moose in Frasier, the firefighter who captured Olivia’s heart in the Christmas special.

Jimmy gives a great behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of Frasier. The supreme writing, the professionalism on set and what its like working with Frasier himself, Kelsey Grammar.

Jimmy didn’t have to go far for the inspiration for Moose, he brings so much of himself to every role. With firefighters in his family, they must be very proud that he portrays these heroes on a set based in Boston.

I have a lot of respect for comedians, they have the hardest job in the world to make people laugh. It was a pleasure to find that Jimmy is very much like Moose himself.

A proud Bostonian, we talk about his stand-up inspirations and what impact they had on American stand-up. We touch upon stand-up internationally too, with hopes of Jimmy taking his comedy overseas.

With a plot twist in the Christmas episode, we hope to see more Moose in season two!

Tune in now!


Dec 21, 202322:09
Podcast with John Bucy #Frasier

Podcast with John Bucy #Frasier

John Bucy

Another great Frasier interview lands on The Mighty Dragon!

Today’s guest is actor John Bucy. John plays Roger in Frasier, and like Frasier he is a Boston native. But home is in Los Angeles where he is focussing on building his acting career. It was a great time to catch up with John as he navigates his way in the new Hollywood.

John shares how he got into acting, how he has approaches portraying his characters, some nuggets from behind the scenes of Frasier and also some sage acting advice for anyone joining the industry.

Life is busy for John, with many projects taking off after the writers/actors strike, I have a feeling that 2024 is going to be a roaring success for this dedicated actor.

Tune in now!

Dec 20, 202326:11
Podcast with Renee Pezzotta #Frasier

Podcast with Renee Pezzotta #Frasier

Renee Pezzotta

Who else has just finished the first season of the latest in the life of Doctor Frasier Crane?

This fantastic, new series picks up where he started, in Boston. In the aftermath of the passing of his father Martin, we see Frasier getting closer to his son Freddy. Frasier continues to do what Frasier does best, witty one liners, clever quips and navigating family tensions hilariously.

As a sidenote, as a Brit who grew up with Only Fools and Horses on the box 24-7, its been great to see Nicholas Lyndhurst in this series as Alan Cornwall, Frasiers’ Oxford buddy and sidekick. It’s been delightful to see him as this character and I’m interested to see how this character evolves.  

New characters have been introduced this season, one being Smokey, Freddy’s firefighter buddy and coworker. Smokey is portrayed by actress Renee Pezzotta, who I am delighted to welcome onto The Mighty Dragon.

These new faces have found their voices in the Frasier universe, and it was interesting to hear how Renee approaches Smokey’s character and acting in general.

Tune in to hear how this Tennessee-New Jersey native made it not only in acting but in stand-up comedy too. As a very driven professional, it didn’t surprise me to hear that Renee has a side-hustle too alongside her acting career.

We talk about the effect of perfoming infront of a live audience, something she is used to with her stand-up comedy experience. We talk too about script changes in the live environment and how this can change a performance. This was a very insightful glimpse into how sitcoms are made in reaction to the audience reaction!

Renee also talks about the fantasy backstory she has for Smokey, can you guess which Cheers legends daughter she aspires to be?

The new cast are all so highly talented but what else do you expect from a show like Frasier?

Tune in now!

Dec 20, 202320:50
How to make a short film - with Natalia Bulynia

How to make a short film - with Natalia Bulynia

Our esteemed guest today is the talented Natalia Bulynia, who has recently brought her inaugural short film, "LA HISTORIA DE FERNANDO," to life and is already immersed in the creation of her next cinematic masterpiece.

Join me as I delve into the creative mind of this multi-faceted writer, director, and producer to unravel the intricacies of her artistic process and discover how she seamlessly weaves together the elements of storytelling, direction, and production.

Dec 11, 202324:31
Podcast with Synnøve Macody Lund #Ragnarok

Podcast with Synnøve Macody Lund #Ragnarok

Synnøve Macody Lund

Today’s guest, Synnove Macody Lund, stars in the smash hit series Ragnarok on Netflix as Ran Jutul, the principal of Edda Secondary School.

As we spoke I was so impressed with Synnove’s drive and determination to venture into her acting career. Those nerves she felt ahead of a performance propelled her to draw out her unique acting talent and into performances such as Ran, Gabriella in Spiders Web or Diana in Headhunters.

We talk about her career so far, how she prepares for new characters and staying true to a character versus bringing her own interpretation to a role.

Interesting to note, Synnove discusses the pressures on women to always look good. As a busy mother and actress, I was keen to hear how Synnove maintains a healthy work-life balance.

We discuss the challenges Synnove has faced in her acting career and how she has overcome them. Finally, we of course, discuss Ran, the multi-layered character who Synnove has enjoyed exploring her vulnerabilities.

Dec 04, 202317:34
Podcast with Alex Alessi #therose

Podcast with Alex Alessi #therose

Alex Alessi

Recently I watched a terrific horror short called The Rose. Written and directed by my friend and past The Mighty Dragon interviewee, Andrew Froening.

An enchanted rose bequeathed a curse upon a young woman many years ago, and now her descendants learn they too may suffer by the thorns of the rose.

IMDB

The Rose stars Alex Alessi, an actor who provides a powerful performance. I just had to ask him onto the podcast!

We discuss his career in acting, how he prepares for roles, what parts of himself he brings to a character, and how he handles feedback and criticism, plus much more.

With his eyes on a superhero role, tune in to see what character this is… can you guess?


Nov 29, 202335:42
Podcast with Patrick Wirtz #scissormouth

Podcast with Patrick Wirtz #scissormouth

Patrick Wirtz

Patrick Wirtz has been on my radar for some time for an interview for The Mighty Dragon. His work with past The Mighty Dragon interviewee, director Deborah Richards, is truly an epic glimpse into the life of a producer. After speaking with Patrick, I have so much more appreciation for this role. Naive me, thought that this role was mostly financial. How wrong was I?! I joked to Patrick that a day in his life would give me a heart attack, I wasn’t wrong!

Patrick shares his experiences working alongside Deborah on her first feature, Move Me No Mountain. We touch upon how projects develop from concept to completion. Patrick offers insights into social media strategies, industry trends and how the role of a film producer will evolve in the future. This, of course, ventures into the world of AI, scary for some, whereas others are embracing this technology.

With their next movie, Scissor Mouth, coming out soon it was a great time to catch up.

Nov 01, 202347:03
Poltergeist - Cursed Production?

Poltergeist - Cursed Production?

#poltergeist #carolanne #cursed #cursedproduction #stevenspielberg #joBethWilliams #skeletons #horror #horrormovies #conspiracies #haunted #ghosts #scarystuff

Oct 31, 202303:50
Rosemary's Baby - Cursed Production?

Rosemary's Baby - Cursed Production?

#rosemarysbaby #cursed #romanpolanski #johnlennon #dakota #newyork #horrorstories #miafarrow #conspiracies #sharontate #horrorfilm

Oct 31, 202302:16
Exorcism: The Hidden Truth

Exorcism: The Hidden Truth

Exorcism: The Hidden Truth - here I look into the real story behind The Exorcist. That of a young boy called Roland Doe who was exorcised at age 14.



Oct 19, 202302:26
Kubricks USA Exit Explained

Kubricks USA Exit Explained

Why did Kubrick leave the USA? I explore some of the reasons why on this podcast.

Oct 10, 202305:08
A Haunting in Venice with Fernando Piloni

A Haunting in Venice with Fernando Piloni

Fernando Piloni

Fernando Piloni is a Brazilian actor who has truly travelled the world. His dream of acting picked up and put back down a few times, till he conquered his fears and ended up working on the hugely successful, A Haunting in Venice.

Acting in Brazil, Spain and now London, he’s an actor who has mastered his art with skill and dedication – absorbing and revelling in the the different training methods in those areas.  He has overcome obstacles to propel him even further ahead and open opportunities, specifically in theatre.

He’s recently appeared as Vincenzo Di Stefano in A Haunting in Venice which sees Kenneth Branagh at the helm as Poirot. I was keen to chat with Fernando about this experience – what did he learn from acting alongside Kenneth Branagh?

Oct 05, 202329:23
Podcast with Maja Bloom #fantasticbeasts
Sep 20, 202333:32
Murder and Mayhem with Christian Svensson

Murder and Mayhem with Christian Svensson

Christian Svensson Swedish actor Christian Svensson joined me on The Mighty Dragon recently. With Career Opportunities in Murder & Mayhem in post production, it was a great time to catch up to discuss his career, his British start in life, the characters he likes to portray, Swedish rats and so much more. Christian is a multi-talented actor. Not only is he multi-lingual (Swedish, English, French and Spanish!) but he boxes and specialises in Brazilian Ju-Jitsu too, it was interesting to hear the focus his training has given him in his acting life. I always think it speaks volumes about a person when they pay tribute to their family as being the backbone of their success. Christian credits his wife and children as being his rock, for grounding him.

Jun 16, 202323:58
Maria Tran spills the tea on Madame Tien #lastkingofthecross

Maria Tran spills the tea on Madame Tien #lastkingofthecross

From Australia to Las Vegas

I'm so delighted to have Maria Tran back on The Mighty Dragon. Now based in Vegas, Maria has been super busy (and that's an understatement) with multiple projects.

One being working alongisde Tim Roth in Last King of the Cross, a big budget Australian series based on the book by John Ibrahim. She talks to me about her character, Madame Tien, and the inspiration she got creating this formidable character.

Maria talks too about her feature film Echo8, her plans for a trilogy and forging the path for women filmmakers to break through and shine. In their own right.

It's always so refreshing speaking to Maria, her positivity is infectious and she really deserves all the success!


May 26, 202328:50
Podcast with with Jeppe Beck Laursen #thelastkingdom

Podcast with with Jeppe Beck Laursen #thelastkingdom

Jeppe Beck Laursen

The Last Kingdom - what a truly, brilliant series and now a truly brilliant film (The Last Kingdom`: Seven Kings Must Die - released last month on Netflix).

With anticipation, well, to be frank DREAD, of this wonderful storyline coming to an end. I watched absolutely spellbound as the final part of the story unfolded. What a great ending too, what way do you think Uhtred chose?

In the end scene, I spotted one of my absolute favourite characters (and all-time greatest baddie), Haesten, feasting in Valhalla - I knew I had to reach out to see if I could interview the man behind this dark, intriguing character - Jeppe Beck Laursen.It was an absolute pleasure to chat with Jeppe not only about Haesten but how he got into acting, his life, hopes and ambitions.

We of course talk about The Last Kingdom and a deep dive into the enduring fascination of Viking drama.I meet Jeppe's dog too cutely named Han Solo - something us 1972 kids have in common is Star Wars.

Will we see Jeppe in a future Star Wars series? Tune in to find out...

May 12, 202330:25
Screenwriting advice from the Pros - Phillip E. Hardy #purgatorystation

Screenwriting advice from the Pros - Phillip E. Hardy #purgatorystation

Phillip E. Hardy is back on The Mighty Dragon!

It was a pleasure to catch up with a writer buddy of mine, Phillip E. Hardy. Phillip was previously on The Mighty Dragon back in 2020 talking about the enduring fascination of Dracula (link below in Resources).

It’s a great time to catch up as Phillip has just adapted Hemingway’s Sun Also Rises into a screenplay. We talk about this and his upcoming movie Purgatory Station starring Bob Gunton as Horatio Grimes. Phillip also manages a Facebook screenwriting group, Screenwriters Talking Shop. This is a super-friendly, helpful and supportive group and a great resource for all writers serious about their craft.

While I had Phillip I grilled him on best practise as a screenwriter and the question we all want to know, how to get your script read as an un-repped writer.


Questions:

  • You have recently adapted Sun Also Rises into a screenplay, is this the first adaptation you have done?
  • What are the challenges of adaptation?
  • Have you much licence to change the narrative in adaptations?
  • You have a movie coming out too! Purgatory Station, can you tell me more about this?
  • As a writer I have known for years, what have you learnt the most about the writing profession?
  • You have a Facebook writing group, what sets this apart from other writing groups?
  • Do you think writing competitions are worth the money?
  • Which writing festivals are the best ones to enter in your opinion?
  • Should a writer try different genre, or stay within the genre they feel most comfortable?
  • What’s the best advice you could give to writers who are not represented in getting their work read?


Resources:

Purgatory Station

Phillip E Hardy - IMDb

Michael Rockefeller

Inktip

Phillip E. Hardy, Dracula Interview - The Mighty Dragon

Sun Also Rises - Hemingway

Apr 21, 202350:56
Deborah Richards: Vegas Filmmaker #MoveMeNoMountain
Apr 14, 202323:34
SAS: Who Dares Wins - Rudy Reyes shares the secrets of his success
Apr 06, 202341:28
Dress Code twists 'n' secrets podcast #dresscode
Mar 25, 202325:09
Podcast with Cat Lellie - Move Me No Mountain #movemenomountain
Mar 20, 202326:17
Brahim Chab & Fight Choreography: Behind the Scenes
Mar 14, 202322:55
Podcast with Dustin Nippert #physical100

Podcast with Dustin Nippert #physical100

Physical:100, the smash hit South Korean Netflix series kept me and my family glued to the sofa.

We couldn’t blink or breathe as the gruelling challenges pitted contestants against each other, all with a chance to win a huge sum. But, to me, it wasn’t the cash prize that drove these contestants but the endorphins as the game progressed and challenges got harder.

If you haven’t seen it, athletes such wrestlers, MMA, gymnasts, Olympians and influencers competed in this show all with different abilities, strengths and focus.

One contestant, Dustin Nippert, an American baseball player forged ahead in the series. I’m so thrilled he agreed to a podcast for The Mighty Dragon. We talk about what expectations he had about the show, the types of contestants who would navigate the challenges the best and how this show would be perceived elsewhere.

We touch upon South Korean culture too, I was moved by the respect the contestants held for each other and interacted. Let’s just say I can’t wait for the second series!

Big thanks to Dustin for this opportunity and for the Orlando baseball recommendations! I’ll go and see my first baseball match(?) or do you say game?!

Mar 06, 202312:50
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Anne-Marie Scragg #firefly (feat. Olivia Pickering)

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Anne-Marie Scragg #firefly (feat. Olivia Pickering)

Anne-Marie Scragg

It’s an absolute pleasure to add indie director Anne-Marie Scragg to the interview collection here on The Mighty Dragon.

Her latest movie, Firefly, is a tribute to the deaf community and for all vulnerable facing violence at home.

Anne-Marie is used to directing powerful, emotive pieces. Firefly joins How We Live, which are real stories affecting real people. Check out the links in Resources below for more information on these projects.

For this podcast we look into the creative, intimate world of indie film, through the joy and tears on set in Cornwall. We discuss the spontaneity and creative freedom of indie film, and the considerations of working with children and on location.

Olivia Pickering

Stay tuned to the end for a fun addition to this podcast, as The Mighty “Little” Dragon kicks her Mum off the hot seat to interview Firefly’s “Little Frankie”, Olivia Pickering.

Olivia, a dynamic young actress, was chosen to play Little Frankie. Anne-Marie tells us how Oliva’s natural talent shone through and they caught some organic scenes on the beach on Cornwall.

Olivia instinctively delivered a captivating performance as Little Frankie, she mastered sign language required for the role. The Mighty Dragon predicts a booming career for you! Good luck.

Questions posed:

Anne-Marie Scragg

  1. Your IMDb states you are a Director, Writer and Actress, is it possible to say which do you find most creatively fulfilling?
  2. How did it all start for you?
  3. What are the strengths & benefits in Indie films?
  4. What are the challenges of Indie films outside of budget?
  5. Firefly was shot in Cornwall, what considerations do you have to make when choosing a location.
  6. Tell me about Firefly?
  7. You have child actors in Firefly, what considerations do you have to make when filming with children?
  8. From How We Live and Firefly, these are both powerful, emotive “real” stories, is this something you will continue to focus on for future projects?
  9. Any special memories/magical moments you’d like to share from filming Firefly?
  10. What’s next for you?
Feb 18, 202321:03
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Maria Erwolter

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Maria Erwolter

Following on from my last 1899 interview with Alexandrew Willaume, I have another one for you! This time with multi-talented actress Maria Erwolter, who starred as Iben in the smash-hit Netflix series.

Maria, shares her thoughts on her character Iben and the breath-taking twists and turns of the series. We discuss what characters she enjoys portraying and which genre she’d like to experience.

From The Ritual to 1899, this actress keeps extending her range of characters and lighting up our screens. With a busy family life, Maria keeps grounded with meditation and most impressively paying it forward to the next generation of actors.

Thank you to Maria for this interview, may I wish you all the best for Christmas and 2023!

Dec 17, 202213:24
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Alexandre Willaume

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Alexandre Willaume

Recently I binge watched the fantastic Netflix series 1899, this truly one of the best series I have watched this year. A story so complex with unexpected twists and turns, you never know truly where its headed, in a refreshing way! Not being able to guess the plot is quite refreshing.

I was delighted that 1899 actor Alexandre Willaume joined me on The Mighty Dragon podcast to discuss his character Anker, the hesitant priest aboard the ship. As a Danish actor, I was keen to get his insights into the strengths of the Danish film industry, and how he forged his career path. A career path which has taken him all over the world.

From Tomb Raider, to The Last Kingdom and to 1899 Alexandre is an actor with great depth and experience, and I am so glad to have him as part of the interview collection here on The Mighty Dragon.

Sorry, a little bit of swearing in this one.

Dec 09, 202228:55
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Phillip Noyce

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Phillip Noyce

“Action! Cut!”

Last weekend I was delighted to catch up with Australian director Phillip Noyce. Phillip was last on the blog in 2018, so it was a great opportunity to see what he’s been up over the past few challenging years in the industry.

From a cold, blustery evening in England to the sunny climes of LA where Phillip is based, we spoke about his illustrious career which spans from the 60’s to the present day!

Surprised and heartened by his answers to my questions, I am in no doubt that Phillip Noyce is a true professional and a genuinely kind person to work with.

A team player on a production, he has remained open to emerging technology for story-telling and supporting up and coming filmmakers. He discusses how he learns from everyone on set. This flexibility in his work ethos has kept him at the top of his game, and long may it continue.

I was especially touched when he recollects about his movie Rabbit-Proof Fence. This is a lesson that passion projects born from the heart are the ones that stay with you the longest.

He recalls his time visiting The Last Emperor set in Beijing and witnessing 4,000 people on set under the command of Bernardo Bertolucci. His friendship with Federico Fellini and some unforgettable advice he was given.

Questions posed:

You were my 20th interview for The Mighty Dragon back in 2018.  What have you been working on since?

What would you say is your favourite film of yours, or most memorable piece of work.

As audiences have moved to streaming, have you had to adapt to how you work for changing audience habits?

Do you stick to the script, or do you often go off script while on a shoot?

If you were to shoot any of your films again, what would you change?

What has been the biggest challenge to you as a filmmaker?

Are there any special memories from any of your films that you’d like to share?

Which actor have you most enjoyed working with, and why?

What are you currently enjoying – tv series or film?

Next year, I will be looking at the work of Stanley Kubrick for this blog. What do you enjoy most about his style of directing.

Nov 24, 202250:37
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Andrew Froening
Oct 28, 202226:37
Podcast with David Espinosa and Craig Ahrens - Independent Film #thecrumbs #theevildownthestreet #lovenquarantine #demonfighter

Podcast with David Espinosa and Craig Ahrens - Independent Film #thecrumbs #theevildownthestreet #lovenquarantine #demonfighter

When I last interviewed David and Craig back in 2020 I was left in awe at not only their creativity but their business sense too as Independent Filmmakers.

I can certainly say this interview was no different. They still have this drive, passion, and integrity about their work which is admirable. Not to mention their superhuman planning skills which guarantee a slick operation on set.

With their new releases Love N Quarantine and Demon Fighter out now, it was a great chance to catch up with these Mighty Dragon favourites. They offer solid advice for any Independent Filmmaker and share some of their process for making their unique, quirky, and unforgettable films.

Best of luck to David and Craig for Love N Quarantine and Demon Fighter and beyond.

The Mighty Dragon supports Independent Filmmakers, please get in touch if you'd like to share your story.

Aug 17, 202232:26
Podcast with actor Jess Liaudin #notimetodie #luther #thebatman

Podcast with actor Jess Liaudin #notimetodie #luther #thebatman

I last interviewed actor Jess Liaudin back in 2019, he’d been in Disney’s Maleficent: Mistress of Evil and we caught up on the other projects he had at the time.

His route into the industry actually left me quite tearful as he described his underprivileged background, which truly served as a launchpad propelling him into success. I think back at that interview from time to time, I still find it very moving. If you haven’t read it I urge you to follow the link in Resources on the blog.

For this podcast we catch-up on what he’s been working on in the past two years and his hopes and ambitions as an actor.

From Luther, No Time to Die, LIFT and The Batman, Jess’s busy schedule won’t be changing anytime soon.

Jun 01, 202219:11
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Pierre Bourdaud

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Pierre Bourdaud

It was an absolute pleasure to chat with Beijing based actor Pierre Bourdaud today on The Mighty Dragon podcast.

From France to Beijing

With over twenty years of experience working in Beijing as an actor, stunt performer, and director Pierre is incredibly humble about his achievements.

Multi-lingual, he has worked with Jackie Chan, Johnny Knoxville, Sebastian Vettel, and many others. It seems no one day is the same as another – he could be dubbing films in Mandarin or working with Mike Tyson.

With the lockdown squeezing in China how is that impacting the booming Chinese film industry?

May 05, 202217:04
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Galen Howard #thebookofbobafett

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Galen Howard #thebookofbobafett

Actor Galen Howard joined me on The Mighty Dragon podcast recently to talk about his work on The Book of Boba Fett.

A lifelong Star Wars fan, Galen shared his thoughts on the Star Wars legacy and how it's endured for so many years. Star Wars is a family affair for Galen, he remarks how his father worked on Return of The Jedi, so it felt like it was meant to be when he secured the part on The Book of Boba Fett.

We talk about the secret world of Star Wars casting and storyline, the highs & lows of an actor's life, his preferred genre to work in, plus what draws him to certain characters.

I also took the opportunity to speak to Galen about his work in music videos, specifically the video for Justin Timberlake's "Can't Stop The Feeling!'.

Apr 27, 202221:03
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Deborah Richards #movemenomountain

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Deborah Richards #movemenomountain

Deborah discusses her career from flair bartending to Dark Lights, which was released last year.  A huge success, this horror short was awarded Best Cinematography, Best Special Effects and Best Horror Short at the Stranger Days Independent Film Festival.  Deborah wears multiple hats during the filmmaking process, something which she does again for Move Me No Mountain, her first feature, out this summer.  We spoke about the challenges and rewards of being in control of all these elements (writer, director, VFX, camera etc) and how this has impacted her script-writing.  

After the interview I was left in complete admiration of Deborah's achievements and drive. A strong, vocal champion of women's filmmaking (not to mention picking up the NW Woman Filmmaker of the Year award), Deborah's star is rising.  Not only this, but she has done so with grace and respect for those she has worked with.  Thank you for this opportunity Deborah, may I wish you all the best with your future projects.  Podcasts and interviews with filmmakers the world over.   

Check out my special "The Mandalorian" & Mindhunter interview series,  a unique behind-the-scenes experience of these hit shows.  Want to learn tips and tricks from those who have succeeded? My YouTube page hosts podcasts and supporting videos with filmmakers, actors, producers, directors, and more. It showcases my own research as an amateur screenwriter/animator in creating my own stories for release here.  This channel heavily supports the importance of Indie film not only in the UK but worldwide. See how Indie filmmakers are engaging with their audience to deliver unique content from shorts to features and what drives their process.  It may help you start your own?  

SOCIAL MEDIA - Come and say hello :) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themightydragonblogTwitter: https://twitter.com/BertieChan55Blog: https://themightydragon.blog

Apr 14, 202226:22
Podcast with Carey Jones #BlackKrrsantan

Podcast with Carey Jones #BlackKrrsantan

The Book of Boba Fett lands on The Mighty Dragon blog and I am delighted to have actor Carey Jones as part of my The Book of Boba Fett interview collection.

We know Carey as the bounty-hunting Wookiee, Black Krrsantan, in The Book of Boba Fett, and I must say this character, “Santy” was, for me, one of the outstanding performances of the series. If you look into the fascinating history of Santy, you can see this Wookiee was trained as a gladiator, bears a scar from Obi-Wan’s lightsaber, worked for the Hutt’s, Vader, and finally now, as part of Boba Fett’s legion.

Carey chats to me about his time on The Book of Boba Fett set and how physically challenging and rewarding portraying Santy is. We also speak about how he got into the industry and his route into Twin Peaks, The Walking Dead, Mare of Easttown, Predators, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and so much more.

After this interview, I was left with admiration for Carey’s work ethic, drive, and determination. He truly deserves all the success, but it wasn’t without grind and grit on his part.

I truly hope we see more of Santy (please Disney, give him a spin-off series)!

Mar 11, 202216:20
Podcast with Kelly Schwarze #indiefilmfactory
Feb 08, 202209:01
Podcast with independent filmmaker Andrew Froening

Podcast with independent filmmaker Andrew Froening

Recently I caught up with Independent filmmaker and regular on The Mighty Dragon, Andrew Froening.   Based in the US, Andrew is currently working on two features. One being a mob film based in his home area (and Sopranos base) New Jersey. He talks about his projects this year and also reflects back on 2021 - how has the pandemic changed his work ethic.   It seems features are now the future for Andrew, and as ever, I wish him the very best of success.

Jan 28, 202224:21
The Mighty Dragon: Best of Christmas - what's your favourite Christmas movie?

The Mighty Dragon: Best of Christmas - what's your favourite Christmas movie?

Flicking through the huge amount of festive films on Netflix the other night, I wondered which one I could call my favourite, my absolute “gun at head” favourite. After all, Christmas films are such an integral part of the festive season, can you imagine if we didn’t have a fave?

Is your favourite a tear-jerker, a rom-com, a classic or something entirely different. Something that stirred memories from childhood, possibly?

While I pondered this myself, I decided to throw the question open to some of my previous interviewees. Their recommendations may inspire you to put on something that you may not seen before.

What’s your favourite? Step inside…

HUGE THANKS to the contributors:

  • Andrew Froening
  • Phillip E. Hardy
  • David Silverman
  • Bryan McClure
  • Bernard Bullen
  • Kelly Schwarze
  • AV Turner
  • Nicole Russin-McFarland
  • Mike Leeder
  • Arne Venema
  • Alejandro De Hoyos
  • Lee Anthony Smith
  • Paul Zeidman
  • Joe Fiorello
  • Carla Roda
  • Gareth Williams
  • Yeniffer Behrens

Hopefully you will find some festive film inspiration here.

Thank you for supporting The Mighty Dragon throughout 2021.

The Mighty Dragon will return

Dec 21, 202113:13
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Carla Roda

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Carla Roda

On the podcast today, award winning film editor and director, Carla Roda.

In a male-dominated area of the industry Carla Roda has truly made her mark on Hollywood.   She is the first Spanish woman to edit projects for HBO. Her editing work for Fox Searchlight/ Fox Digital Studios’ docu-series Phenoms was an official selection and winner at Tribeca Film festival.

The documentary Our Quinceañera was Winner of the Audience Award for Best Documentary at The Bentonville Film Festival and Audience Award for Best Documentary at the Panamanian International Film Festival in Los Angeles and Vote Neil Was an official selection at Tribeca Film Festival 2020, Official Selection in Documentary Shorts and was also licensed by NBC News and Meet The Press.

Carla is working on a new film, Let Go , which she wrote and will direct.

Let Go takes the love and sacrifice themes of Me Before You by Thea Sharrock and the recovery of trauma and identifies themes of The Rider by Chloé Zhao. Questions posed

1) From Spain to Hollywood, tell us about your journey to become an award-winning film editor?

2) Is film editing an “Invisible art”

3) Are women under-represented in this side of the industry?

4) Your family describes you as a fighter from day one, would you agree?

5) Whats has been your favourite project so far and why?

6) What do you think are the strengths of the Spanish film industry?

7) I have read with interest some of the charities you support. Could you tell me more about those, and will we see some projects based on those charities in the future?

8) What do you have planned project-wise for the near future?

9) Finally, what would be your advice to anyone wanting to explore film editing.

Huge thanks to Carla for this opportunity and to Espada PR for co-ordinating.

Follow Espada PR on Instagram here.

Dec 09, 202115:58
The Mighty Dragon podcast with Renee Lim

The Mighty Dragon podcast with Renee Lim

The multi-talented Renee Lim

For anyone who follows The Mighty Dragon Instagram account you will see that I recently watched Clickbait on Netflix.

IMDbWhen family man, Nick Brewer, is abducted in a crime with a sinister online twist, those closest to him race to uncover who is behind it and why.

Shot in Australia, this series has a very modern feel, utilizing the power of social media within the story and on screen.  I was delighted that actress Renee Lim, who played Alice in Clickbait, agreed to join me on the podcast.

As you will hear, Renee has many strings to her bow,  her drive and motivation are very inspiring to all. Looking through her impressive blog, Nay in the Life, I think this really underlies her work ethic, no matter what character she is portraying. The ability to look at  a subject at many different perspectives is an attribute for any creative.

We spoke too about the multi-award winning Please Like Me where she plays Mae.

IMDbTwenty something Josh is going through a number of big changes as he navigates his first decade of adulthood. After being dumped by his girlfriend, he comes to the realization that he is gay.

I think this series is typical of the way that Australian productions expertly portray sensitive subjects. Listen to Renee discuss what is was like to be part of it.

Questions posed
  1. I have just enjoyed the series Clickbait on Netflix where you play the role of Alice. What attracted you to this character?.
  2. How did you get into acting?
  3. Your IMDb describes you as an actress, dancer, presenter and medical doctor.  Is it possible to choose one as your real passion?
  4. What has been your favourite character to date, and why?
  5. You were Mae in the highly acclaimed Please Like Me, what was it like being part of this series?
  6. As an Australian actress, where do you feel the strength is in Australian tv & film?
  7. Can you tell me more about Nay in the Life?
  8. What projects do you have coming up?

Huge thanks to Renee for this opportunity and to Kelly for co-ordinating us through various time zones and daylight savings

Nov 07, 202114:29
The Mighty Dragon podcast with David Hedges

The Mighty Dragon podcast with David Hedges

was joined on my podcast with another of my early interviewees, David Alton Hedges. With a new book out now, Werewolf, I thought it was a great chance to see what this Nicholl-winning writer was up to now. The last time I checked in with David was when he was over in South Africa watching his film, Scorpion King: Book of Souls being made.

Here’s a link to the previous interview, it still remains one of the most-read interviews in my collection here on The Mighty Dragon.

Points for discussion
  • if Scorpion King changed him as a writer
  • what opportunities lockdown gave him to explore other projects, such as the K9 tv series
  • if California is still the destination for writers and filmmakers
  • how writers can adapt to the change in the way audience consume content
  • finally, we talk about his new book, Werewolf, a moving account of his time in the K9 unit with his partner, Brag. What a wonderful tribute to a heroic dog!

Huge thanks to David for sharing his time and wisdom!


Where to find Werewolf

Amazon – Buy Werewolf now on Kindle & Paperback
Instagram – Werewolf’s Instagram page.

Other links

Thin Blue Paw – a UK charity for retired police dogs.

IMDb – The Scorpion King: Book of Souls

IMDb – K9 (1989)

Oct 08, 202123:38
Joe Fiorello chats China, Hong Kong and US music & film projects and more

Joe Fiorello chats China, Hong Kong and US music & film projects and more

The Mighty Dragon kicks off interview season with filmmaker and music producer @joeblackshadow.
Joe talks about  life in NYC, HK memories, CFK Radio and thoughts on the Chinese and Hong Kong film industries. I even got a legendary Joe Fiorello HK story 

The Mighty Dragon back in busineSS  #podcast #chinesefilm #hongkongfilm #musicproducer #themightydragon #musicproducerlife #nycproducer

Oct 01, 202134:38
TIME and LEVEL 16 - tv catch-up with Allie & Vikki

TIME and LEVEL 16 - tv catch-up with Allie & Vikki

#seanbeanTIME #stephengraham #tvrecommendations #whatsonNetflix 

Here we discuss our thoughts on BBC's TIME and Netflix's LEVEL 16. We will be back next month discussing Ted Bundy.

Jul 14, 202119:12
The genius of Jim Carrey

The genius of Jim Carrey

Joining me on the podcast today is author AV Turner for one of our regular "Allie & Vikki" catch-ups.  Here we discuss Jim Carrey, Dumb & Dumber and the side of Jim we have seen on YouTube giving phenomenal speeches about life creativity and the Universe.  

Jim famously said on Oprah that he wrote himself a cheque for $10million and attracted this to happen to him. An example of the law of attraction some would say - this was his paycheck for Dumb & Dumber.  

Jun 09, 202119:41
The Mighty Dragon Mindhunter Special: Interview with Happy Anderson (Jerry Brudos)

The Mighty Dragon Mindhunter Special: Interview with Happy Anderson (Jerry Brudos)

My Mindhunter Special continues with my first crook and I am over the moon to get Happy Anderson on the podcast to discuss his role as Jerry Brudos. Otherwise known as the shoe fetish killer.

Actually, Happy is right. Calling serial killer Jerry Brudos a crook is a complete injustice. But nonetheless, the performances of all the actors who portrayed the serial killers, to me, are the genius of this series. So I was delighted that Happy is part of the Mindhunter Special interview collection.

Happy Tappy

Happy discusses his career, his beginnings as a tap dancer and performer, to the roles which he is most proud of.

I asked Happy how it felt to play such a dark character as Brudos for Mindhunter. It was interesting to hear the emotional impact portraying this character had on him. You can tell from his performance as Brudos that he fully envelops his characters – certainly stepping into the shoes of a serial killer is no mean feat.

Sympathy with the Devil

As a writer, my conversation with Happy reminded me that there are many sides to serial killers that need to be considered in a script, certainly some elements where we feel empathy for the character.

These characters will always have identifiable human traits, the devoted family man and good friend. Inside the monster, you will often find a sad childhood, neglect, bad parents, and exclusion. Is the monster borne out of these circumstances or where they always there?


Resources:

Happy Anderson – IMDb
Happy Anderson – website
Mindhunter Wiki – Happy Anderson
Hit Men – Amazon Prime

More from The Mighty Dragon

Mindhunter Special: Darrin Giossi
Mindhunter Special: Cotter Smith
Mindhunter Special: Gareth Williams
Mindhunter Special: Michael Cerveris
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May 28, 202114:58
The Mighty Dragon Mindhunter Special: Interview with Michael Cerveris (Tedd Gunn)
May 12, 202133:41
The Mighty Dragon Mindhunter Special: Interview with Gareth Williams (Chief Redding)
May 11, 202131:34