Directors Talk Film

What happens when a simple family interview turns into a five-year documentary journey?.
In this episode, filmmaker Ben Gill shares the deeply personal story behind "Mommo" a film that began with one conversation and grew into a powerful exploration of memory, grief, love, and legacy.
Ben opens up about filming his grandmother, uncovering decades of home videos, and discovering how his grandfather’s own camcorder footage shaped the film’s emotional core. From dawn devotion scenes to old family tapes and a 90th birthday celebration, this conversation reveals how personal storytelling can become something universal. We also talk about Ben’s path into filmmaking, his background in visual effects and motion graphics, and how he built a production career around crafting authentic, cinematic stories. If you care about documentaries, family history, or preserving memories for the future, this episode is for you. What you’ll learn:
How Mammo started as a spontaneous interview
Why archival footage became the heart of the film
How Ben balanced emotion, structure, and authenticity
The role of grief, legacy, and family memory in storytelling
Practical ways to preserve and digitize family history

Guest Ben Gill is a filmmaker and owner of Oxfree Filmin Motion in Orlando, known for blending cinematic storytelling with honest, unscripted moments.

Mommo Film Trailer

Follow Ben Gill:
Instagram: benjaminlgill
Instagram: oxenfree.film
Youtube.com/@BengillFilms

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Uncover the blueprint behind impactful documentary filmmaking that scales social change and discover how a small team turned a year-long project into a catalyst for awareness and action.
When storytelling intersects with purpose, it can transform viewers into active participants. Thomas, a seasoned impact documentary filmmaker, shares how his team navigates from concept to distribution, building audiences even before the cameras roll. T.C. Johnstone's film "Untethered" exemplifies this journey, an uplifting look at innovation and empowerment that took a year to craft and now inspires global change. In this episode, you'll discover:
The eight-phase documentary development framework, from idea inception to distribution, that ensures a predictable and efficient production process.
How to leverage AI tools and targeted marketing strategies, including teaser clips and audience building to raise millions even before filming begins.
The importance of script planning and on-paper storytelling to save time and money during post-production, while maintaining artistic integrity.
Strategies for sustainable impact filmmaking focusing on social goals rather than mere ROI and how to create a business model that funds future projects.
The behind-the-scenes process of balancing artistic vision with audience engagement, especially for international and multilingual screenings.

Why should you care? Because navigating the complex world of impact documentary filmmaking armed with a clear plan and audience-first mindset allows you to make authentic stories that matter—stories that can spark social change, foster empathy, and grow a dedicated community around your work. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, impact leader, or content creator, this episode offers a proven roadmap to turn your passion into influence.Guest Thomas is a director and impact documentary specialist who’s sold films globally, built impactful community systems like Doc Film School, and pioneered new approaches to funding and distribution. His work consistently underscores that storytelling is a powerful tool for social transformation—when done with intentionality and strategy.If you’ve ever wondered how to craft documentaries that not only entertain but inspire real-world change—this episode is your essential guide. Tune in to learn how to align your creative process with your social impact goals, and start turning your stories into movements.
Perfect for filmmakers, social entrepreneurs, and impact advocates eager to scale their message and mobilize audiences for good.—

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Most filmmakers dream of turning personal stories into powerful visual experiences, and Dayra Ferrera’s debut short film, Racao, does just that. Through intimate storytelling, stunning visuals, and genuine emotion, she captures a heartfelt tribute to family, tradition, and the unbreakable bonds that transcend time. When Dayra watched her own abuelo’s story come to life on screen, she knew she had created something truly special, something that hits hard and lingers long after the credits roll.In this episode, discover how a Puerto Rican assistant director with over seven years of experience found her voice through Racao. She shares the behind-the-scenes journey of crafting a film rooted in her personal heritage, including secrets about improvisation that brought authenticity to every raw moment. You’ll learn how she navigated the challenges of production, working with a tight budget, orchestrating complex lighting transitions, and fostering genuine performances with her talented cast. And get an insider’s look at how technical riffs like the Meissner technique and careful cinematography choices enhanced the emotional depth of her story.We break down: the importance of honesty in storytelling, how the community influences and inspires her work, and what it’s like navigating the festival circuit with a short that’s close to her heart. Dayra shares her insights on building meaningful relationships with her crew, the power of local culture in filmmaking, and her vision for the future, aiming to put Puerto Rico on the international map through her craft. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, emerging storyteller, or simply love films that resonate on a human level, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.By sharing her personal journey, Dayra Ferrera reveals how vulnerability and authenticity can elevate a film and leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Perfect for aspiring directors, writers, and fans of true stories told through a cultural lens. Get ready to be moved, inspired, and eager to tell your own story.Follow the filmmaker featured in this episode! :Writer / Director: Dayra Ferrera https://www.instagram.com/__aryad/https://www.instagram.com/recaofilmEpisode #9 on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts. Find Directors Talk Film on our Socials: Instagram: @directorstalkfilm X: @DirecTalkFilmTixTok: @DirectorsTalkFilmFacebook: @DirectorsTalkFilmYouTube: @directorstalkfilm Substack: ‪@DirectorsTalkFilm‬

Unlock the chaos behind filmmaking: how one director’s four-year puzzle turned into a Miami Shakespearean masterpiece. Ever wondered what it takes to create a film that defies traditional structure and embraces the messiness of artistic creation? Isabel Custer, a passionate writer-director, takes us on her unconventional journey of making As You Like It Like That, Miami’s vibrant, exaggerated, and culturally rich feature. From battling technical setbacks to building a Hollywood-scale world with limited resources, she reveals how her passionate, iterative process transformed a wild puzzle into a film filled with unexpected layers, comedic brilliance, and heartfelt insights. You'll discover:
How a four-year filmmaking odyssey shaped the film’s unique style from scenes inspired by childhood memories in Chile to Miami’s bold, vivid color palette.
The art of casting actors who embody passion and resilience, like Junet Morales, whose sunny disposition masks a deep Shakespearean commitment.
The playful use of mockumentary film techniques, improvised monologues, and spontaneous decisions brought authenticity and humor to the story.
Why some of the best creative ideas emerge from chaos, including surprise scenes inspired by meeting an actress who resembled a childhood self, and the importance of trusting your instincts over rigid planning.
And how embracing imperfections and community culture turns a passion project into a lively, memorable cinematic experience.

In a business landscape obsessed with schedules and “perfect” scripts, Isabel’s story underscores why the most compelling films often come from embracing disorder, collaboration, and genuine passion. This episode is perfect for filmmakers, creatives, and anyone battling to bring their artistic visions to life, reminding us that sometimes, the puzzle pieces only fit when you let them. Join us to learn how one artist’s relentless pursuit of authenticity, vibrant storytelling, and joy in chaos crafted a film that’s as colorful and unpredictable as Miami itself. If you’re eager to escape cookie-cutter filmmaking and dive into the messy, captivating process of artistic creation, this episode is your must-listen.
Meet Isabel Custer: Writer, director, and creator of As You Like It Like That. Isabel’s work blends cultural homage, Shakespearean theatrics, and Miami’s vibrant spirit, making her a true visionary in independent film. Ready to embrace the beautiful chaos behind the camera? Hit play and discover why patience, passion, and a little madness are the keys to cinematic success.

"What if fear kept someone from saving their own life? I asked Gregory about the real power of storytelling and how a simple idea sparked a film that’s now traveling the world 🌎.

Drop a 💥 if you believe movies can make a difference.

Gregory shared how a tiny moment of inspiration, seeing a car fly down the street, led to a film that questions what society values. He rewrote the story’s setting from LA to Texas, emphasizing authenticity and local flavor, and then shot the whole thing in just two days with creative planning and resourcefulness.

This film isn’t just about storytelling; it’s about giving voice to overlooked lives and creating change. What's one story you've been afraid to tell?
#FilmmakingJourney #FilmFestLife #CreateWithPurpose

Film: https://www.gregorykasunich.com/theheartoftexas

We had the opportunity to talk to these amazing Filmmakers! 
 @gregoryjmkasunich
 ⁨@jamesablanco⁩

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