Women @UNLVFilm: Breaking Barriers
Today's class will follow our hosts, Thalia, Meredith, and Marie in conversation with Professors Andi Isaacs [https://www.unlv.edu/people/andi-isaacs] and Roudi Boroumand [https://www.unlv.edu/people/roudi-boroumand]
Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgbLVA87WVDTKLP095pINKBeHXSe6brRn]
Breaking Barriers in Film: Women’s Voices and Leadership
Get ready for a lively, inspiring conversation about the power of women in the film industry! Dive into stories of resilience, breaking stereotypes, and how education and community are shaping the future of cinematic storytelling. This episode celebrates the progress made and discusses the road ahead for women filmmakers, leaders, and students.
In this episode:
* The journey of women breaking into Hollywood and behind the scenes
* Key statistics on gender parity in film education vs. industry roles
* How streaming platforms are creating new opportunities for women directors
* The importance of diverse storytelling driven by women’s perspectives
* Challenges and victories in navigating a historically male-dominated industry
* The role of education at UNLV in empowering the next generation of women filmmakers
* How cultural backgrounds influence women’s paths in film
* Practical advice for students about overcoming fear, networking, and finding their niche
* The impact of festival circuits, distribution, and industry shifts on women-led projects
* The importance of intersectionality and community support for sustainable change
Timestamps:
* (00:00) - Introduction to the episode and the guests
* (04:14) - Women’s experiences in the film industry: from Hollywood to Iran
* (09:14) - The role of education in fostering female filmmakers
* (12:24) - Gender disparities in film roles and leadership
* (19:07) - Streaming platforms opening doors for women directors
* (21:09) - Celebrating women-driven films like Barbie and their industry impact
* (25:42) - Industry shifts and the hope for future female leadership
* (27:52) - How UNLV nurtures diverse female talent in film
* (33:00) - Final thoughts on supporting women and community-driven growth
Resources & Links:
* UNLV School of Cinematic Arts [http://www.unlv.edu/cinematic-arts]
* Nevada Women's Film Festival [https://nevadawomensfilmfestival.org/]
* Gender and Hiring in Film Report 2025 [https://www.reframeproject.org/stamp/film/2025]
* Streaming Data on Women Directors [https://www.indiewire.com/2022/10/women-filmmakers-streaming-statistics]
Connect with the Guests:
* Professor Andi Isaacs [https://www.unlv.edu/people/andi-isaacs]
* Roudi Boroumand [https://www.unlv.edu/people/roudi-boroumand]
Additional Notes:
* The episode highlights the importance of supportive educational environments and community initiatives like UNLV's diverse faculty and festivals.
* Emphasizes that success in film isn’t just about gender but talent and perseverance amid industry challenges.
* Encourages future filmmakers to embrace all roles and narratives, demonstrating that the industry is evolving toward equity and inclusion.
Credits:
Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com [https://gmail.com/]
HOSTS - Jaidyn Thalia Sanders, Meredith Costello, Marie Palmieri
PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand
For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager
To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/ [https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/]
Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.
For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com [https://thebeverlytheater.com/] The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.
At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond.
Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM [http://unlv.edu/FILM] UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.
Tune in and be inspired to amplify women’s voices in the magic of cinema!
