S2 Ep. 11 - From Latvia to the Oscars: Matīss Kaža and his journey in Cinema

S2 Ep. 11 - From Latvia to the Oscars: Matīss Kaža and his journey in Cinema

In this special episode of Filming in Portugal: See the Big Picture, we welcome Latvian filmmaker Matīss Kaža, producer and co-writer of Flow, the feature film that won this year’s Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The director, producer and screenwriter spoke with Martin Dale about the creative process behind this co-production between Latvia, France and Belgium, as well as his career path, animation cinema, and future projects - including the next film by director Gints Zilbalodis. The episode was recorded live at the 2025 Tribeca Festival Lisboa on October 31, made possible through a partnership between the Portugal Film Commission and WPP Portugal.

S2 Ep. 10 - “People feel much more comfortable when they know they're not being filmed”

In the final episode of the second season, Martin Dale talks to Alexandra Ramires and Laura Gonçalves, directors and co-founders of BAP — Animation Studio. Both trained in Fine Arts, they share a career that bridges animation and documentary, with award-winning films in Portugal and beyond, such as Drop by Drop and their latest work, Percebes. In this conversation, they reflect on creative collaboration, the importance of listening to people, and the freedom they find in animation to give voice to real stories.More information on filming in Portugal and episode transcripts available here [https://portugalfilmcommission.com/en/podcast/].

S2 Ep. 9 – "Casting is a creative act of trust"

In this episode of Filming in Portugal: See the Big Picture, journalist Martin Dale sits down with two leading names in international casting: Patrícia Vasconcelos, casting director and founder of the Passaporte programme, and Julie Schubert, New York-based casting director known for productions like House of Cards and The Devil Wears Prada. A conversation about the challenges and evolution of the profession, the impact of streaming platforms on the industry and the importance of building trust between producers, directors and casting directors. The episode also highlights how initiatives like Passaporte have helped promote Portuguese talent internationally. A reflection on creativity, talent and new opportunities in an increasingly global market. More information on filming in Portugal and episode transcripts available here [https://portugalfilmcommission.com/en/podcast/].

S2 Ep. 8 – “Technology should be a tool, not the creativity itself”

In the latest episode of Filming in Portugal: See the Big Picture, we reflect on the impact of technology and artificial intelligence on the future of the audiovisual industry, with Joana Vicente, producer, cofounder of Open City Films and former CEO of the Sundance Institute. In conversation with Martin Dale, Joana discusses the potential of new digital tools to enhance creativity, optimize resources and create new opportunities for independent productions – while highlighting the importance of using these technologies ethically and responsibly. The episode also explores the evolution of the sector, the crucial role of film festivals as curators of emerging talent, and Portugal’s growing appeal as a destination for international productions. More information on filming in Portugal and episode transcripts available here [https://portugalfilmcommission.com/en/podcast/].

S2 Ep. 7 – “Portuguese cinema is very much alive — and it’s evolving”

In this episode of “Filming in Portugal: See the Big Picture”, we turn our attention to contemporary Portuguese cinema, its challenges, and the new generation of filmmakers and audiences shaping its future. Film journalist and critic Rui Tendinha and Teresa Vieira, film critic, cultural journalist and Artistic Director of BEAST International Film Festival, join Martin Dale for an open conversation about the current landscape of Portuguese film, the crucial role of festivals in promoting emerging voices, and the importance of breaking long-standing industry patterns. A reflection on the past, present and future of a cinema scene that remains intimate and independent, yet increasingly ambitious and outward-looking. More information on filming in Portugal and episode transcripts available here [https://portugalfilmcommission.com/en/podcast/].