BONUS EPISODE: Blood, Bullets, Filmmaking and Octane with Joe Carnahan

BONUS EPISODE: Blood, Bullets, Filmmaking and Octane with Joe Carnahan

It's been a hell of a year so far. I've been blessed to have had the honor of speaking to some amazing filmmakers and man today's guest is high on that list. On the show we have writer/director Joe Carnahan. Joe directed his first-feature length film Blood, Guts, Bullets and Octane. which was screened at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival, and won some acclaim.


In 2002, Joe directed the neo-noir crime film Narc starring Ray Liota and Jason Patric. The film caught the eye of the biggest movie star in the world Tom Cruise, who jumped on as an executive producer. His involvement helped propel the film and Joe's career. Narc went on to earn about 13 million dollars in the worldwide box office, and launch Joe's career.

Narc: When the trail goes cold on a murder investigation of a policeman an undercover narcotics officer is lured back to the force to help solve the case.

Tom Cruise asked Joe to write and direct Mission Impossible III. The dream slowly became a nightmare as Joe was run through the Hollywood machine at the highest level. He left the project soon after.

As a response to his Hollywood experience he wrote and directed the high octane, insane masterpiece that is Smokin' Aces, starring Ben Affleck, Ryan Reynolds, Ray Liotta, Andy Garcia, Chris Pine, Common, Jason Bateman, Wayne Newton. The film is about a Las Vegas performer-turned-snitch named Buddy Israel who decides to turn state's evidence and testify against the mob, it seems that a whole lot of people would like to make sure he's no longer breathing.

In 2010, Carnahan directed the action thriller The A-Team, a film adaptation of the hit television series from the 8os. It was a worldwide box office hit, becoming Joe's highest-grossing film.

THE A-TEAM follows the exciting and daring exploits of Hannibal Smith and his colorful team of former Special Forces soldiers who were set up for a crime they did not commit. Going rogue, they utilize their unique talents and eccentricities to try and clear their names and find the true culprit.

Liam Neeson (Taken), Bradley Cooper (The Hangover), mixed martial arts champ Quinton Rampage Jackson, and District 9 sensation Sharlto Copley, are The A—Team. (read less) THE A-TEAM follows the exciting and daring exploits of Hannibal Smith and his colorful team of former Special Forces soldiers who were set up for a crime they did not commit.

Going rogue, they utilize their unique talents and eccentricities to try and clear their names and find the true culprit. Liam Neeson (Taken), Bradley Cooper (The Hangover), mixed martial arts champ Quinton Rampage Jackson, and District 9 sensation Sharlto Copley, are The A—Team.

Joe follow that up with the adrenaline-fueled, action-packed film, The Grey. Arguably one of my favorites in Joe's filmography. It has some of the most intense and brutally realistic attack scenes ever filmed.

Liam Neeson (Schindler's List, Taken) stars as the unlikely hero Ottway in this undeniably suspenseful and powerful survival adventure. After their plane crashes into the remote Alaskan wilderness, a roughneck group of oil drillers are forced to find a way back to civilization. As Ottway leads the injured survivors through the brutal snow and ice, they are relentlessly tracked by a vicious pack of rogue wolves that will do anything to defend their territory.

Joe latest adrenaline-fueled film is called Boss Level. starring Frank Grillo, Naomi Watts, Michell Yeoh, and Mel Gibson. Think Groundhog's Day or Edge of Tomorrow meets Smokin' Aces. It's time loop chaos!

Trapped in a time loop that constantly repeats the day of his murder, former special forces agent Roy Pulver (Frank Grillo) uncovers clues about a secret government project that could unlock the mystery behind his untimely death. In a race against the clock, Pulver must hunt down Colonel Ventor (Mel Gibson), the powerful head of the government program, while outrunning skilled ruthless assassins determined to keep him from the truth in order to break out of the loop, save his ex-wife (Naomi Watts) and live once again for tomorrow.

Joe and I had a ball discussing his early career, working in and outside the studio machine, superhero films, meeting Hollyweird dirt bags, writing for other directors, the Colombian government and much, much more.

Getting ready to take an adrenaline-fueled ride with Joe Carnahan.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

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IFH 816: From Extras to Director’s Chair: The Filmmaking Journey of Rocky Costanzo

IFH 816: From Extras to Director’s Chair: The Filmmaking Journey of Rocky Costanzo

The journey of Rocky Costanzo is a testament to the raw, unpolished path of independent filmmaking. Beginning as an actor and extra on shows like The Wonder Years, he quickly discovered his true passion behind the camera. Without formal film school, Rocky turned to public access television as his training ground, learning through experimentation, trial, and error. From lighting with hardware store lamps to filming with rollerblades for dolly shots, his early projects embodied the scrappy resilience of indie cinema. Each film became a classroom, teaching him the essentials of lighting, sound, storytelling, and directing actors with trust rather than control.As Rocky’s career evolved, so did his perspective on the changing landscape of filmmaking. He acknowledged how technology has lowered production barriers while making distribution more challenging, emphasizing that “story, story, story—that’s what lasts.” His recent project, Ditch Party, highlights this philosophy by focusing less on spectacle and more on the intimate, human drama of students trapped during a tragedy. For Rocky, filmmaking is not just about mastering craft—it is about persistence, passion, and the willingness to embrace limitations as opportunities for creativity.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

19 Elo 52min

IFH 815: Lessons in Filmmaking, Failure, and Persistence with Greg Travis

IFH 815: Lessons in Filmmaking, Failure, and Persistence with Greg Travis

In this episode, veteran actor and director Greg Travis dives into his decades-long filmmaking journey, culminating in the release of his once-abandoned 1984 feature Dark Seduction. Shot on 16mm black-and-white film, the noir-vampire hybrid languished in post-production limbo for over 30 years before digital technology made its completion possible. Greg shares candid stories about the ups and downs of making the film—from lost investors to dusty negatives—and explains how delays actually gave him the chance to polish the project into something stronger than it would have been decades ago. Greg also reflects on lessons learned from working with top-tier directors like David Lynch and Paul Verhoeven, emphasizing the importance of tone, improvisation, and a solid story structure. As both an actor and filmmaker, he offers practical advice for new directors, including taking acting classes, planning with a three-act outline, and remaining open to spontaneous creative choices on set. His story is not just about finishing a movie—it’s about staying committed to your vision through every challenge the industry throws your way.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

12 Elo 54min

IFH 814: Why Your Script Still Isn’t Getting Read; And What to Do About It with Whitney Davis

IFH 814: Why Your Script Still Isn’t Getting Read; And What to Do About It with Whitney Davis

In this episode, Whitney Davis, a seasoned literary manager and script consultant, breaks down the real-deal process of getting noticed in Hollywood—from landing a manager to crafting query letters that don’t suck. Sharing her own unconventional path into the industry, Whitney offers raw, practical advice for screenwriters and indie filmmakers on how to pitch like a pro, avoid rookie mistakes, and build lasting relationships that actually move careers forward. This is a no-fluff, insider’s guide to breaking in and leveling up in the film industry.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

5 Elo 49min

IFH 813: Building Films from Scratch: Mastering Microbudget Movie-Making with Evan Kidd

IFH 813: Building Films from Scratch: Mastering Microbudget Movie-Making with Evan Kidd

Evan Kidd is a passionate indie filmmaker who believes great stories don’t need big budgets—just big heart. In this episode, he shares how he created his feature film Son of Clowns using the resources he already had: friends, favors, and faith in the process. With a deep respect for collaboration, Evan emphasizes the importance of building a reliable team, staying grounded, and keeping ego out of the equation. His filmmaking philosophy leans heavily on authenticity, transparency, and making the most of real-world environments, often embracing the beautiful chaos that unfolds on set. Throughout the conversation, Evan offers wisdom for creatives struggling with fear and perfectionism. He encourages filmmakers to stop waiting for ideal circumstances and start where they are, even if that means running sound themselves or rewriting scenes to fit accessible locations. “Filmmaking is just a big game of improvisation,” he says, reminding us that adaptability and passion are more powerful than money. His journey is a heartfelt lesson in making art that matters—without asking permission.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

29 Heinä 1h 2min

IFH 812: How Tremors turned into a Masterclass in Storytelling with S.S Wilson

IFH 812: How Tremors turned into a Masterclass in Storytelling with S.S Wilson

In this episode, screenwriter and filmmaker S.S. Wilson shares the behind-the-scenes journey of creating the cult classic Tremors, revealing how creative limitations, meticulous story structure, and a deep respect for character and sound design brought the film to life. From his writing process with partner Brent Maddock to the evolution of the Tremors franchise and his advice for aspiring filmmakers, Wilson offers a masterclass in crafting compelling, low-budget cinema with heart and precision.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

22 Heinä 38min

IFH 811: How Pixar’s Story Secrets Can Transform Your Filmmaking Process with Brit Cruise

IFH 811: How Pixar’s Story Secrets Can Transform Your Filmmaking Process with Brit Cruise

Brit Cruise—educator, filmmaker, and producer of Pixar in a Box—takes us on a journey through the fusion of storytelling, science, and education. From his early days editing videos with dual VCRs to his innovative work at Khan Academy, Brit reveals how deep focus, analog creativity, and a love for explanation helped shape his approach to teaching complex subjects through immersive visuals. With storytelling as the core, he shares how each lesson in Pixar in a Box connects school-taught concepts like math and physics to the movie magic of Pixar, showing students that what they learn can have real, creative application. Throughout the conversation, Brit explores his philosophy that creativity is “the ability to deal with unknowns,” emphasizing iteration, structure, and the power of simplicity. He also gives us a glimpse into the upcoming storytelling curriculum at Pixar in a Box, where students will storyboard their own shorts from scratch. For filmmakers, educators, and curious minds alike, this episode is a masterclass in how to bring clarity, authenticity, and joy into the learning and creative process.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

15 Heinä 52min

IFH 810: The No-Excuses Filmmaking Philosophy of Len Kabasinski

IFH 810: The No-Excuses Filmmaking Philosophy of Len Kabasinski

Len Kabasinski shares his journey from childhood dreams of monsters and martial arts to becoming a prolific force in the world of independent B-movie filmmaking. He recounts the origins of his first feature Swamp Zombies, revealing how a passion for horror and action films, coupled with sheer determination and minimal resources, propelled him into the director’s chair. With stories of on-set challenges, like actors no-showing and rewrites done on the fly, Len highlights the resourcefulness required to survive and thrive in the micro-budget world. His deep respect for martial arts and love for genre films shine through as he explains how even his earliest projects were fueled by vision, grit, and a DIY spirit. As the conversation unfolds, Len Kabasinski reflects on the evolution of his filmmaking, from improving technical aspects like sound and lighting to writing scripts that align with available resources. He discusses working with cult personalities like Dan Severn and Jasmine St. Claire, and how casting is not just about fame but about attitude and collaboration. Looking forward, he shares excitement about upcoming projects like Hellcats Revenge and Challenge of the Five Gauntlets, emphasizing his desire to showcase his martial arts roots in full force. Throughout, Len remains grounded, humble, and fiercely committed to telling the stories he believes in—proving that true creativity doesn’t wait for permission.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

8 Heinä 53min

IFH 809: No Budget, All Hustle: The Filmmaking Grind of Staci Layne Wilson

IFH 809: No Budget, All Hustle: The Filmmaking Grind of Staci Layne Wilson

In this colorful and deeply personal episode, Staci Layne Wilson shares her remarkable journey from a childhood surrounded by Hollywood legends and horseback riding to becoming an award-winning filmmaker and bestselling author. Born and raised in Los Angeles to a famed musician father (Don Wilson of The Ventures) and a glamorous pin-up model mother, Staci’s life has always been steeped in creativity. Yet, her entrance into filmmaking wasn’t planned—it evolved naturally through her work as a horror novelist and entertainment journalist. With a passion for storytelling and a love for visual style, she eventually directed short films and features that showcase her unique blend of artistry, grit, and genre flair. Throughout the conversation, Staci Layne Wilson reflects on the confidence she gained through small, creative victories, her experiences navigating the film world as a woman, and her desire to tell authentic stories—whether through film or memoir. Her book So L.A. offers a humorous yet heartfelt look into her unconventional upbringing, filled with wild stories like meeting Malcolm McDowell weekly or being invited to the Playboy Mansion as a teenager. With future projects on the horizon, including a documentary on her father’s legendary band, she continues to blend past and present into meaningful art that captures the spirit of Hollywood’s golden oddities.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

1 Heinä 43min

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