The Film Situation

In this episode, we sit down in-person with producer and film finance expert Scott DuPont out in Los Angeles. I first discovered Scott through the documentary MOVIE MONEY CONFIDENTIAL (directed by Rick Pamplin) , and he also runs a great podcast called Finance Your Movie. He’s raised millions of dollars for indie films and has been in the game for a long time...but what really stands out is how practical and down-to-earth his approach is. We talk about how he raised a million bucks for his first feature back in the '90s, what it was like meeting a major investor while doing background work on THE WATERBOY, and why trying to attach actors before you have money in the bank is almost always a waste of time. Scott breaks down the psychology of raising money, how to build trust with investors, what really goes into a legit business plan, and how to tap into your network without being awkward about it. He also shares insights about his work with Quentin Tarantino and Burt Reynolds, talks about why most filmmakers fail to pick up the phone, and explains what he calls “asymmetrical risk/reward” basically, how to offer big upside while protecting your downside. It’s all super real and super helpful. If you’re serious about getting your movie made, this episode’s gonna give you a ton to think about — and a real strategy to actually move forward. Hosted by Zef Cota

Louise Levison is the undisputed queen of indie film business plans—and in this episode, she breaks down how to actually raise money for your movie. Best known for crafting the business plan that launched The Blair Witch Project, Louise has helped independent filmmakers secure financing for decades. We talk about what investors really care about, how to position your project for success, and the biggest mistakes first-time filmmakers make when chasing funds. Whether you're planning your first feature or looking to level up your producing game, this episode is packed with gold.   Hosted by Zef Cota

Throwback episode -- originally recorded for GlobeScreen in 2023: Legendary cinematographer Dante Spinotti (HEAT, L.A. CONFIDENTIAL, THE INSIDER) joins us for a rare and intimate conversation. We dive into his collaborations with directors like Michael Mann and Curtis Hanson, explore the making of iconic films, and hear behind-the-scenes stories—from lighting the climactic airport scene in HEAT to shooting ALTO KNIGHTS with Robert De Niro in dual roles. Spinotti also shares insights on digital vs. film, working with actors, and advice for young DPs trying to break in. A must-listen for anyone who loves the art and craft of cinematic storytelling. Hosted by Zef Cota

On this episode of The Film Situation, host Zef Cota sits down with Julian Biba—a filmmaker, producer, novelist, and director of the NY True Venture Film Festival—to discuss his unconventional journey into filmmaking. From his early days as a bodyguard to finding himself at the Cannes Film Festival with his first short film, Julian shares how his real-life experiences have shaped his storytelling across film, literature, and festival programming. Plus, Julian and Zef break down two of his favorite movie scenes: THE BOURNE IDENTITY (2002) & Tony Scott's MAN ON FIRE (2004). @julianbiba Hosted by Zef Cota

In this episode of The Film Situation, we sit down with acclaimed Stanley Kubrick biographers Nathan Abrams and Robert P. Kolker, co-authors of KUBRICK: AN ODYSSEY, to explore the genius of one of cinema’s most enigmatic directors. From the Bronx to London, Stanley Kubrick’s legacy continues to fascinate and influence filmmakers and cinephiles alike. We dive deep into his obsessive attention to detail, behind-the-scenes stories from his most iconic films, and what made him such a singular force in cinema history. Hosted by Zef Cota