17 - Nilo Rodis-Jamero - Industrial Designer of Star Wars and Star Trek The Filmumentaries Podcast 2026-09-17 | 17 - Nilo Rodis-Jamero - Industrial Designer of Star Wars and Star Trek
You Made A Time Machine Out Of... A DeLorean! The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-10-17 | Special effects supervisor Kevin Pike reveals how he and his team created the DeLorean time machine for Back to the Future (1985).In this detailed account, Pike explains how he was brought on by Amblin Entertainment, how he worked with Robert Zemeckis, Bob Gale and production designer Larry Paul, and how concept artists Ron Cobb and Andrew Probert influenced the design of the car.He describes the process of building three DeLoreans for the production, making each one functional for different types of shots, and ensuring every switch and detail worked on camera.This video offers a rare inside look at the craftsmanship and ingenuity that turned a stainless steel sports car into one of the most iconic vehicles in film history.Watch Part 1 here: youtube.com/watch?v=08D-_SkPBFk&t=7sSubscribe for more behind-the-scenes stories at Filmumentaries.com--------------------------------------------------------The Filmumentaries Podcast - Exploring the Unsung Heroes of Cinema. Go beyond the credits and uncover the untold stories of the filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople who bring your favorite movies to life.Hosted by filmmaker, author, and film historian Jamie Benning, The Filmumentaries Podcast offers in-depth conversations with the behind-the-scenes legends of Hollywood and beyond. Each episode features exclusive interviews with art directors, production designers, VFX artists and supervisors, editors, sound designers, animators, and other key creatives who shaped iconic films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Ghostbusters, and more.Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the hidden artistry of moviemaking, this podcast is your all-access pass to film history.What You'll Discover:Rare insights into filmmaking from the people who were thereDeep dives into classic and modern movie-making techniques Stories of innovation from Industrial Light & Magic, Lucasfilm, and beyondExclusive discussions on practical effects, CGI, set design, and film scoringA celebration of cinema's hidden heroes New episodes twice a month. Subscribe now and follow Jamie Benning on social media: @filmumentaries on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and @jamieswb on X.Visit Filmumentaries.com for more exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights!
Blast it Biggs Where Are You? The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-10-16 | Explore the untold story of Garrick Hagon, the actor behind Luke Skywalker's deleted friend, Biggs Darklighter, in this revealing short documentary. Using archival interview audio, the film delves into Hagon's original audition for George Lucas, his on-set experiences filming in Tunisia with Mark Hamill, and the camaraderie among the cast. Discover why the crucial Anchorhead scene, which established Luke's motivation and Biggs' influence, was cut from the final film and the lasting impact of its absence. This documentary provides a unique look into a lost piece of Star Wars history and an actor's perspective on a role that was almost lost entirely.-----------------------------------The Filmumentaries Podcast - Exploring the Unsung Heroes of Cinema. Go beyond the credits and uncover the untold stories of the filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople who bring your favorite movies to life.Hosted by filmmaker, author, and film historian Jamie Benning, The Filmumentaries Podcast offers in-depth conversations with the behind-the-scenes legends of Hollywood and beyond. Each episode features exclusive interviews with art directors, production designers, VFX artists and supervisors, editors, sound designers, animators, and other key creatives who shaped iconic films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Ghostbusters, and more.Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the hidden artistry of moviemaking, this podcast is your all-access pass to film history.What You'll Discover:Rare insights into filmmaking from the people who were thereDeep dives into classic and modern movie-making techniques Stories of innovation from Industrial Light & Magic, Lucasfilm, and beyondExclusive discussions on practical effects, CGI, set design, and film scoringA celebration of cinema's hidden heroes New episodes twice a month. Subscribe now and follow Jamie Benning on social media: @filmumentaries on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and @jamieswb on X.Visit Filmumentaries.com for more exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights!
How Did They Shoot The Opening Scene for Back to the Future? The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-10-15 | In this exclusive conversation, special effects supervisor Kevin Pike shares how the unforgettable opening shot of Back to the Future (1985) was created. From ticking clocks and exploding toasters to Doc Brown’s dog food machine and Marty McFly’s skateboard reveal, Pike takes us inside the intricate work that brought Robert Zemeckis’ vision to life.Recorded by me, Jamie Benning of Filmumentaries.com, this detailed breakdown shows how a single continuous shot tells the story of the whole movie — and why the Back to the Future trilogy remains one of the greatest examples of practical effects artistry in Hollywood history.Learn how the Back to the Future special effects team:Synchronized 30 working clocks for the opening sequenceBuilt a custom dog food machine for Doc Brown’s labTimed smoke effects, coffee makers, and toast pops perfectly for the camera moveCreated seamless comedy through engineering and timingWorked hand-in-hand with Robert Zemeckis, Michael J. Fox, and Christopher Lloyd to sell the illusionAbout the film:Back to the Future (1985), directed by Robert Zemeckis and produced by Steven Spielberg, starred Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd as Doc Brown. It’s widely considered one of the best science-fiction adventure films ever made, blending humor, heart, and groundbreaking practical effects.------------------------------------------------The Filmumentaries Podcast - Exploring the Unsung Heroes of Cinema. Go beyond the credits and uncover the untold stories of the filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople who bring your favorite movies to life.Hosted by filmmaker, author, and film historian Jamie Benning, The Filmumentaries Podcast offers in-depth conversations with the behind-the-scenes legends of Hollywood and beyond. Each episode features exclusive interviews with art directors, production designers, VFX artists and supervisors, editors, sound designers, animators, and other key creatives who shaped iconic films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Ghostbusters, and more.Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the hidden artistry of moviemaking, this podcast is your all-access pass to film history.What You'll Discover:Rare insights into filmmaking from the people who were thereDeep dives into classic and modern movie-making techniques Stories of innovation from Industrial Light & Magic, Lucasfilm, and beyondExclusive discussions on practical effects, CGI, set design, and film scoringA celebration of cinema's hidden heroes New episodes twice a month. Subscribe now and follow Jamie Benning on social media: @filmumentaries on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and @jamieswb on X.Visit Filmumentaries.com for more exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights!
136 - Marthas Vineyard - Special Report The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-10-07 | Episode 136: A Martha’s Vineyard special report on the Joe Alves Documentary shoot. This week’s episode is a little different. It is a behind the scenes update on our ongoing feature documentary about production designer and director Joe Alves (Jaws, Close Encounters, Escape from New York, Jaws 2, Jaws 3D). I take you through our trip to Martha’s Vineyard in June 2024 to capture Joe’s return to the island for the 50th anniversary of Jaws. Thanks to your generosity, we raised over £7,000 to cover the travel, ferry, car hire, and accommodation. Every penny went into the shoot. In this episode, I share: • The challenges and triumphs of making the trip possible • Shooting new interviews with Joe Alves, Marty Milner, Charles de Lauzirika, and Richard Dreyfuss • Filming at iconic Jaws locations including Menemsha and the 4th July beach. • The overwhelming warmth of the Jaws community and the atmosphere of the anniversary celebrations • How the project has evolved from a short film idea into a full feature documentary • Your support is still needed!We still have more to do, including chasing interviews with Dean Cundey, John Carpenter, Lea Thompson, and Steven Spielberg. If you would like to support the film, visit the GoFundMe link in the show notes. Thanks again for helping us push this project forward. We could not do it without you. Support the documentary GoFundMe (gofund.me/d204d7c26) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Life Inside Jabba the Hutt #starwars #filmmaking #80smovies The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-10-01 | Here's a snippet from my documentary Slimy Piece of Worm Ridden Filth - Life Inside Jabba the Hutt in which Toby Philpott talks about his experiences working on return of the Jedi inside the most vile gangster in the galaxy!You can watch the whole video here - youtu.be/QK4coAJDkyg------------------------------------------The Filmumentaries Podcast - Exploring the Unsung Heroes of Cinema. Go beyond the credits and uncover the untold stories of the filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople who bring your favorite movies to life.Hosted by filmmaker, author, and film historian Jamie Benning, The Filmumentaries Podcast offers in-depth conversations with the behind-the-scenes legends of Hollywood and beyond. Each episode features exclusive interviews with art directors, production designers, VFX artists and supervisors, editors, sound designers, animators, and other key creatives who shaped iconic films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Ghostbusters, and more.Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the hidden artistry of moviemaking, this podcast is your all-access pass to film history.What You'll Discover:Rare insights into filmmaking from the people who were thereDeep dives into classic and modern movie-making techniques Stories of innovation from Industrial Light & Magic, Lucasfilm, and beyondExclusive discussions on practical effects, CGI, set design, and film scoringA celebration of cinema's hidden heroes New episodes twice a month. Subscribe now and follow Jamie Benning on social media: @filmumentaries on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and @jamieswb on X.Visit Filmumentaries.com for more exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights!
Slimy Piece of Worm-Ridden Filth - Life Inside Jabba the Hutt The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-10-01 | Slimy Piece of Worm-Ridden Filth – Life Inside Jabba the HuttStep inside the galaxy’s most infamous gangster. In this exclusive behind-the-scenes story, puppeteer Toby Philpottl reveals what it was really like to bring Star Wars’ Jabba the Hutt to life in Return of the Jedi. From operating his massive arms and grotesque tongue, to syncing his dialogue and slime, discover the unbelievable teamwork it took to control one of cinema’s largest, most complex puppets.Hear how Jabba was designed by Phil Tippett, built by Stuart Freeborn’s team, and performed by multiple hidden puppeteers including David Barclay and Mike Edmonds. Learn the secrets behind Jabba’s slimy drool, the infamous Leia scene, and even how a live frog became part of his revolting diet.If you’ve ever wondered:How many people were inside Jabba the Hutt?What tricks made him look so alive on screen?Why George Lucas was skeptical of the puppet?This video has the answers.This is Star Wars history told from inside Jabba’s belly.Subscribe for more exclusive behind-the-scenes stories: [your channel link]Like, comment, and share if you love Star Wars lore.Timestamps:00:00 Inside Jabba’s head and body02:00 From The Dark Crystal to Return of the Jedi04:20 How expensive was Jabba the Hutt?06:20 Puppeteering teamwork08:40 The drool, slime, and smoke10:30 Jabba hits C-3PO13:00 Jabba menaces Leia14:50 Eating the frog17:20 Jabba’s death scene19:30 Legacy of Jabba the Hutt----------------------------The Filmumentaries Podcast - Exploring the Unsung Heroes of Cinema. Go beyond the credits and uncover the untold stories of the filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople who bring your favorite movies to life.Hosted by filmmaker, author, and film historian Jamie Benning, The Filmumentaries Podcast offers in-depth conversations with the behind-the-scenes legends of Hollywood and beyond. Each episode features exclusive interviews with art directors, production designers, VFX artists and supervisors, editors, sound designers, animators, and other key creatives who shaped iconic films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Ghostbusters, and more.Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the hidden artistry of moviemaking, this podcast is your all-access pass to film history.What You'll Discover:Rare insights into filmmaking from the people who were thereDeep dives into classic and modern movie-making techniques Stories of innovation from Industrial Light & Magic, Lucasfilm, and beyondExclusive discussions on practical effects, CGI, set design, and film scoringA celebration of cinema's hidden heroes New episodes twice a month. Subscribe now and follow Jamie Benning on social media: @filmumentaries on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and @jamieswb on X.Visit Filmumentaries.com for more exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights!
Walking tours uncovering London’s lost cinemas with Nigel Smith. The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-30 | London is full of buildings we walk past every day without realising they were once grand picture houses. Coffee shops, churches and bingo halls were once cinemas seating thousands.In episode 135 of the Filmumentaries Podcast I speak with cinema historian Nigel Smith, who runs the website memorypalaces.co.uk and leads walking tours uncovering London’s lost cinemas.We talked about the Carlton Cinema in Islington with its striking Egyptian facade, the culture of “going to the pictures” in the 30s through the 50s, and why repertory and community cinemas might be the key to the future.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.#filmhistory #cinemahistory #londoncinemas #nigelsmith #filmumentariespodcast #memorypalaces #carltoncinema #moviepalaces #lostcinemas #architecture #cinemaculture #repertorycinema
135 - Inside the Carlton Cinema with historian Nigel Smith The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-23 | Cinema historian Nigel Smith joins Jamie to explore the hidden history of London’s picture houses. In particular the Egyptian-style Carlton in Islington. Nigel brings these spaces back to life through stories, archives, and first-hand recollections. In this episode, Nigel and Jamie discuss: • How London’s old cinemas became coffee shops, bingo halls, and churches • The difference between “going to the pictures” in the 1930s–50s and cinema-going today • How local archives, trade papers, and oral histories help piece together forgotten stories • Why repertory and community cinemas may hold the key to the future of film-going • Nigel’s Memory Palaces project, documenting almost 100 cinema buildings with photos and storiesFind more from Nigel:memorypalaces.co.uk (spreaker.com) and Instagram @nigelsmithwalks. (instagram.com/nigelsmithwalks) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Were Owen Lars and Obi Wan brothers?! The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-22 | That detail wasn’t in George Lucas’ script. It came from James Kahn, the author of the Return of the Jedi novelization in 1983.James told me on The Filmumentaries Podcast:“That was just made up out of whole cloth by me just because my I had a sense I think even when well I don't know when but I had a sense they were brothers, antagonistic brothers. And in my mind, I made up this whole backstory between them that Obi-Wan was the older brother and he was restless and he wanted to be a Jedi, but his father wanted him to take over the farm. But he left and there was a lot of rancor and family acrimony and he was told never to come back. He had a big fight with his brother who wanted him to stay.”For years, fans treated this as Star Wars canon until the prequels rewrote the family history.In the full episode, we also talk about James’ experiences working on Temple of Doom, The Goonies, Poltergeist and how movie novelizations shaped the way we understood these stories back in the 1980s.Listen to the full episode on The Filmumentaries PodcastSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/jamiebenning#StarWars #ReturnOfTheJedi #JamesKahn #MovieNovelizations #Filmumentaries #ObiWanKenobi #OwenLars #GeorgeLucas #TempleOfDoom #TheGoonies #Spielberg #Lucasfilm #80sMovies #StarWarsLore #FilmumentariesPodcast-------------------------The Filmumentaries Podcast - Exploring the Unsung Heroes of Cinema. Go beyond the credits and uncover the untold stories of the filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople who bring your favorite movies to life.Hosted by filmmaker, author, and film historian Jamie Benning, The Filmumentaries Podcast offers in-depth conversations with the behind-the-scenes legends of Hollywood and beyond. Each episode features exclusive interviews with art directors, production designers, VFX artists and supervisors, editors, sound designers, animators, and other key creatives who shaped iconic films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Ghostbusters, and more.Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the hidden artistry of moviemaking, this podcast is your all-access pass to film history.What You'll Discover:Rare insights into filmmaking from the people who were thereDeep dives into classic and modern movie-making techniques Stories of innovation from Industrial Light & Magic, Lucasfilm, and beyondExclusive discussions on practical effects, CGI, set design, and film scoringA celebration of cinema's hidden heroes New episodes twice a month. Subscribe now and follow Jamie Benning on social media: @filmumentaries on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and @jamieswb on X.Visit Filmumentaries.com for more exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights!
When Industrial Light & Magic sent me a package! The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-09 | Well this was unexpected! A package from the great folks at ILM! Inside was a ILM Magician Reaction action figure!--------------------------------------The Filmumentaries Podcast - Exploring the Unsung Heroes of Cinema. Go beyond the credits and uncover the untold stories of the filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople who bring your favorite movies to life.Hosted by filmmaker, author, and film historian Jamie Benning, The Filmumentaries Podcast offers in-depth conversations with the behind-the-scenes legends of Hollywood and beyond. Each episode features exclusive interviews with art directors, production designers, VFX artists and supervisors, editors, sound designers, animators, and other key creatives who shaped iconic films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, Ghostbusters, and more.Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the hidden artistry of moviemaking, this podcast is your all-access pass to film history.What You'll Discover:Rare insights into filmmaking from the people who were thereDeep dives into classic and modern movie-making techniques Stories of innovation from Industrial Light & Magic, Lucasfilm, and beyondExclusive discussions on practical effects, CGI, set design, and film scoringA celebration of cinema's hidden heroes New episodes twice a month. Subscribe now and follow Jamie Benning on social media: @filmumentaries on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and @jamieswb on X.Visit Filmumentaries.com for more exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights!
134 - Inside the Movie Novelizations of the ’80s with James Kahn — Jedi, Goonies & Poltergeist The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-09 | In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I talk with James Kahn, the novelist behind some of the most iconic movie novelizations of the 1980s, including Return of the Jedi, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, The Goonies, and Poltergeist. James shares how a chance encounter while working as an ER doctor in Santa Monica led him onto the set of ET: The Extra-Terrestrial, where he met Kathleen Kennedy and Steven Spielberg, an opportunity that set his writing career in motion. We discuss: • How James went from emergency medicine to Hollywood writer • His early break writing the Poltergeist novelization • The creative freedom Spielberg gave him on Temple of Doom, The Goonies, and others • Writing Return of the Jedi under intense secrecy — including how George Lucas gave him a decoy script where Luke kills the Emperor • Inventing backstory details that became “canon” for decades, like Ben and Owen being brothers and hints about Anakin’s fall into the lava pits • Giving Short Round his own chapter and exploring Mikey’s POV in The Goonies • How his books helped fans relive these films long before home video • Why a great novelization is about more than retelling a screenplay • His recent memoir, A Jedi Memoir: A Double Life, weaving together stories from Hollywood and emergency medicineIf you grew up with these books, this one’s packed with insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and moments of movie history you probably didn’t know. If you enjoy the show and want to help me keep making these conversations, please consider supporting the podcast on Patreon:All the links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
The Effect Dictates The Means - Tommy Williamson on how he choses analog or digital effects. The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-03 | In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with Tommy Williamson, a visual effects artist, prop maker, and lifelong creator whose career spans more than three decades. Tommy has worked on films including Spider-Man 2, Sin City, The Mist, Dune: Prophecy, and the modern masterpiece Pan’s Labyrinth. Tommy shares his journey from building paper-craft UFOs as a kid to working alongside Guillermo del Toro and becoming one of the artists helping to bridge the worlds of practical effects and cutting-edge digital VFX. We also dive into his passion for prop replicas and his work as the creator behind Nerds and Makers, where he builds incredible recreations of iconic movie props. If you love behind-the-scenes filmmaking stories, prop-making secrets, and hearing from the artists who bring movie magic to life, this episode is for you. In this episode, we discuss:Tommy’s early love of model making and practical effectsHis first big break on the 1988 remake of The BlobAdapting to the digital VFX revolution after Jurassic ParkWorking closely with Guillermo del Toro on Pan’s LabyrinthThe creative process behind his Nerds and Makers prop replicasWhy keeping one foot in both practical and digital worlds makes him a better artist.The importance of experimentation, curiosity, and lifelong creativity“I’ve always had to make things. It’s absolutely in my DNA. Even now, I’ll work on a show all day and then spend my evenings printing a lightsaber or a blaster. I can’t not do it.” — Tommy WilliamsonYou can follow Tommy and see his incredible prop builds on Instagram: @nerdsandmakersThis podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community
Did you know that Jabba was from Northern Ireland? The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-02 | Declan Mulholland was the first on-screen Jabba the Hutt. In April 1976 at Elstree, he played a human “Jabba” opposite Harrison Ford in a Mos Eisley docking bay scene that was cut from the 1977 release. For the 1997 Special Edition, ILM restored the scene with a CGI Jabba and even dropped Boba Fett into the background. Watch this clip for a rare glimpse of Star Wars in flux and how a throwaway deleted scene became canon twenty years later.
How Mark Hamill and a Marionette Got Dave Barclay the Yoda Job The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-02 | At just 19 years old, Dave Barclay landed one of the most iconic jobs in movie history, becoming a puppeteer on Yoda for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (1980). What most fans don't know is how he actually got the role.In this rare behind-the-scenes story, Dave explains how a custom marionette commission and a little help from Mark Hamill helped him secure the job of a lifetime. Working alongside Frank Oz, Dave helped bring Yoda to life in some of the film’s most memorable scenes, creating one of cinema’s most beloved characters.This clip is from my short documentary with Dave "Do or Do Not - There is No Try". If you are a Star Wars fan or fascinated by the artistry behind the original trilogy, this is a must-watch moment.
Harrison Ford, a Snowstorm, a Snowplough and some Whiskey! The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-02 | The late great Legendary producer Robert Watts tells the story of getting Harrison Ford to Finse, Norway to shoot in a real snowstorm - for The Empire Strikes Back. Oh and there's Whiskey involved!
Did you know that some of the asteroids in The Empire Strikes Back were actually potatoes? The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-09-01 | ...
133 - From The Blob to Pan’s Labyrinth: Tommy Williamson Talks VFX, Guillermo del Toro and Making... The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-27 | In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with Tommy Williamson, a visual effects artist, prop maker, and lifelong creator whose career spans more than three decades. Tommy has worked on films including Spider-Man 2, Sin City, The Mist, Dune: Prophecy, and the modern masterpiece Pan’s Labyrinth. Tommy shares his journey from building paper-craft UFOs as a kid to working alongside Guillermo del Toro and becoming one of the artists helping to bridge the worlds of practical effects and cutting-edge digital VFX. We also dive into his passion for prop replicas and his work as the creator behind Nerds and Makers, where he builds incredible recreations of iconic movie props. If you love behind-the-scenes filmmaking stories, prop-making secrets, and hearing from the artists who bring movie magic to life, this episode is for you. In this episode, we discuss: • Tommy’s early love of model making and practical effects • His first big break on the 1988 remake of The Blob • Adapting to the digital VFX revolution after Jurassic Park • Working closely with Guillermo del Toro on Pan’s Labyrinth • The creative process behind his Nerds and Makers prop replicas • Why keeping one foot in both practical and digital worlds makes him a better artist • The importance of experimentation, curiosity, and lifelong creativity“I’ve always had to make things. It’s absolutely in my DNA. Even now, I’ll work on a show all day and then spend my evenings printing a lightsaber or a blaster. I can’t not do it.” — Tommy WilliamsonYou can follow Tommy and see his incredible prop builds on Instagram: @nerdsandmakers (instagram.com/nerdsandmakers) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Robert Watts - A LIfe in Film - | Star Wars, Indiana Jones, James Bond & Beyond The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-14 | Robert Watts – A Life in Film | Star Wars, Indiana Jones, James Bond & BeyondRobert Watts was one of the most influential British film producers of the late 20th century, helping to bring to life some of the most iconic movies in cinema history. In this exclusive short documentary, Watts reflects on a career that took him from a runner on small film sets to working at the heart of Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and James Bond.His journey began with an early break thanks to family ties to Ealing Studios, followed by work on commercials and his first big feature jobs. He recounts his time on Thunderball and You Only Live Twice, before an introduction to Stanley Kubrick led to his work on 2001: A Space Odyssey. That recommendation would eventually put him on George Lucas’ radar — leading to his role as Production Supervisor on Star Wars (1977).Watts describes the challenges of making Star Wars on a tight budget and schedule, the scramble to finish, and the shock of discovering its unprecedented global success while working in remote Afghanistan. He then stepped up to Associate Producer for The Empire Strikes Back, tackling extreme conditions in Norway to film the legendary Hoth sequences, including the now-famous story of rushing Harrison Ford to set in a snowplough during a real blizzard.From there, Watts’ career expanded to include Raiders of the Lost Ark, where he worked closely with Steven Spielberg and navigated complex shoots in multiple countries. He shares candid behind-the-scenes moments — from managing thousands of snakes to running in front of the giant boulder — and explains why Raiders remains his personal favourite of all the films he made with George Lucas.This documentary is a rare opportunity to hear Robert Watts in his own words, offering an intimate portrait of a man whose problem-solving skills, creative vision, and sheer determination helped shape blockbuster filmmaking. For fans of Star Wars, Indiana Jones, James Bond, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and anyone fascinated by behind-the-scenes movie magic, this is a must-watch.
Do or Do Not. There Is No Try - The Dave Barclay Story The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-14 | Do or Do Not. There Is No Try | The Dave Barclay StoryIn this in-depth short documentary (from 2016), master puppeteer Dave Barclay recounts his incredible journey from a childhood surrounded by puppetry to co-performing one of cinema’s most beloved characters: Yoda. At just 19 years old, Barclay stepped in alongside Frank Oz to bring the Jedi Master to life in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, ultimately becoming Yoda’s lead puppeteer for key sequences — including moments filmed after Oz had left the set.Barclay shares how a chance meeting with Mark Hamill led to his introduction to legendary make-up artist Stuart Freeborn, and how his very first task on Empire was sculpting Yoda’s top lip so the puppet could speak convincingly. From there, he takes us inside the complex craftsmanship behind Yoda’s construction — from foam latex skin and cable-controlled facial expressions to the delicate choreography of four puppeteers working in perfect sync.You’ll hear first-hand stories of:The challenge of performing a fully animatronic puppet in long, physically demanding shoots.Behind-the-scenes camaraderie with Mark Hamill, Frank Oz, Kathy Mullen, and Wendy Midener.The secret on-set appearance of Jim Henson with Kermit and Miss Piggy.Taking over as chief puppeteer for Jabba the Hutt in Return of the Jedi.Collaborating on The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, Little Shop of Horrors, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and more.From Dagobah’s swamp to Jabba’s throne room, Barclay’s career is a testament to craftsmanship, collaboration, and creative problem-solving at the highest level. Whether you’re a Star Wars fan, a puppetry enthusiast, or simply fascinated by movie magic, this is a rare insight into the artistry that brought Yoda — and countless other creatures — to life.
Hiding Strings on Roger Rabbit The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-13 | In my latest episode I chat with Dave Barclay about his new book "My Life With Animatronics. Movies, Puppets and Beyond".Here we are chatting about Roger Rabbit. Listen to the whole interview in episode 132 of The Filmumentaries Podcast.
132 - Dave Barclay - My Life With Animatronics. Movies, Puppets and Beyond The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-12 | Episode 132 - Dave Barclay - My Life With Animatronics. Movies, Puppets and Beyond!At just 19 years old, Dave Barclay found himself stepping into the role of chief puppeteer for Yoda in The Empire Strikes Back. It was the start of an extraordinary career in animatronics and puppetry that would see him bringing to life some of cinema’s most beloved and memorable characters. In this episode, Dave takes us back to his creative beginnings, growing up in a family of puppeteers, and the serendipitous chain of events that led from working in Hamleys toy shop to meeting Mark Hamill — and ultimately joining Stuart Freeborn’s Yoda team. We cover: • His early inspirations from Planet of the Apes to making masks at home. • The technical and creative challenges of performing Yoda alongside Frank Oz. • Becoming chief puppeteer for Jabba the Hutt in Return of the Jedi. • Working on The Dark Crystal, Little Shop of Horrors and Who Framed Roger Rabbit. • The importance of collaboration between puppeteers, animators, special effects teams and actors. • The process of writing his new autobiography My Life with Animatronics, Movies, Puppets and Beyond, filled with stories and photos from across his career.Dave’s journey is a mix of artistry, technical problem-solving, and being in the right place at the right time — but also about saying “yes” when opportunity knocks. Listen now to hear stories from a man whose work has shaped how we see and believe in some of cinema’s most iconic creatures. Find Dave’s book:My Life with Animatronics, Movies, Puppets and Beyond – available now at Cool Waters Productions. (cwzytu-nc.myshopify.com/products/dave-barclay-my-life-with-animatronics-autobiography-signed-book?_pos=1&_sid=f28adddb1&_ss=r) All my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Original Darth Vader Lightsaber up for auction! The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-11 | Last week I was fortunate enough to visit a preview of Propstore's upcoming memorabilia auction. One of the most incredible items was an original Darth Vader Lightsaber!Details:Bidding for this lot will end on Thursday, September 4th. The auction will begin at 10:30AM PDT and lots are sold sequentially via live auctioneer; tune in to the live streaming broadcast on auction day to follow the pace. Note other lots in the auction may close on Friday, September 5th or Saturday, September 6th.This is Darth Vader's original screen-matched, hero dueling lightsaber prop, used extensively in Irvin Kershner's The Empire Strikes Back and Richard Marquand's Return of the Jedi. Among the most iconic artifacts in the Star Wars saga, Darth Vader's lightsaber was prominently featured throughout the original trilogy and appears in several subsequent films. Wielded by both David Prowse and stunt performer Bob Anderson, this is the primary dueling prop created for Vader's character in both Empire and Jedi. It saw extensive use during the filming of both movies and is one of the most memorable film props from the original trilogy.Constructed from a Micro Precision Products (M.P.P.) Microflash - an English camera flash bulb attachment manufactured in the 1950s - this piece was expertly modified by the production team into a lightsaber. The flash's front name plaque was removed, but the black shroud, center band, and clamp were retained and integrated into the final design. Additional custom elements were added, including plastic "T-track" grips, magnification bubbles (sourced from a period digital calculator and inserted into the clamp), a D-ring to allow the lightsaber to hang from Vader's belt, and decorative wiring.Lightsabers were central to George Lucas' earliest concepts for Star Wars and were originally referred to as laser (or in some drafts, "lazer") swords. Lucas envisioned a weapon that was elegant and defensive, symbolic of honor and the romantic ideals of combat. The first visualizations were by concept artist Ralph McQuarrie, whose 1975 production painting titled "Laser Duel" featured lightsabers resembling flashlight handles of the period.
Jaws Clapperboard up for auction! The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-11 | Last week I had the chance to preview some amazing items coming up for auction at Propstore' Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction. Sept 4- 6, 2025.One of those items is this iconic Jaws clapperboard. Tim Lawes, Director of Consignment filled me in on some of the details.Here's the description from Propstore's site:A shark tooth clapperboard with two framed unpublished polaroids of "Bruce", the shark from the production of Steven Spielberg's Jaws. During production, a small number of clapperboards - believed to be as few as four - were custom-made in the style of a shark's jaws in homage to the film's voracious antagonist. The lettering on each board was hand-painted in a unique manner. The toothy clapperboards were said to be difficult for the camera operators to use, however, and the crew was forced to use standard clapperboards during production as well.This clapperboard originated from Neil Gillis, who served as a teamster in the transportation department during production in Martha's Vineyard. Following filming, Gillis was tasked with transporting "Bruce" - the notoriously difficult mechanical shark nicknamed after Spielberg's lawyer, Bruce Ramer - back to California. For his efforts, production subsequently gifted this clapperboard to Gillis, in whose possession it has since remained.Made from wood and painted black-and-white, this clapperboard features tooth-shaped slates with "Zanuck/Brown Prod.," "Universal Studios 02074 "JAWS"," "DIR. S. SPIELBERG," and "CAM. W. BUTLER" labeled on front. It features a wooden dowel inserted on the reverse, as well as a metal screw embedded at the bottom for attaching an elastic band to keep the slate properly aligned. The reverse also features white chalk residue from production as well as a second empty screw hole.Also included are two unpublished personal color Polaroids of Gillis with "Bruce"; and an expanded edition of Jaws screenplay writer Carl Gottlieb's "The Jaws Logs" and introduction by fellow screenplay writer and novelist Peter Benchley. The photographs come mounted behind glass inside a custom frame. Dimensions: 12.5" x 10.5" x 1.25" (31.75 cm x 26.75 cm x 3.25 from
BONUS - Propstores Stephen Lane and Tim Lawes on some iconic props! The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-08-06 | In this special bonus episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I take you behind the scenes of Propstore’s upcoming Los Angeles auction, featuring some truly jaw-dropping pieces of movie history. I was invited to a press preview at London’s Dorchester Hotel, where I spoke with Propstore’s Tim Lawes (Director of Consignment) and Stephen Lane (CEO and Founder) about some of the headline items, including: • A screen- and photo-matched Darth Vader hero lightsaber from The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi • The iconic Jaws clapperboard with teeth, plus Bruce the shark’s eyes • Jane Fonda’s Barbarella costume and blasterWe discuss the thrill of uncovering long-lost props, the stories behind these legendary items, and what it means for collectors to own a piece of cinematic history. The auction runs September 4–6, 2025, streamed online from Los Angeles, with the full catalogue available at propstore.com (propstoreauction.com/auctions/info/id/456) . Next episode: My interview with puppeteer Dave Barclay, whose incredible career goes far beyond Jabba the Hutt.All my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
The Man in Ridley Scott’s Corner – Ivor Powell on Alien & Blade Runner The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-07-24 | Ivor Powell was a crucial collaborator for Ridley Scott on three groundbreaking films – The Duellists, Alien, and Blade Runner. As a producer, he navigated the challenges of making these ambitious projects a reality and witnessed firsthand the creative process that shaped two of the greatest sci-fi films ever made.In this documentary, Powell shares:His early career break working with Stanley Kubrick on 2001: A Space Odyssey.How he became Ridley Scott’s trusted producer and right-hand man.Candid behind-the-scenes stories from the sets of Alien and Blade Runner.Reflections on the challenges, risks, and ultimate legacy of these iconic films.If you’re fascinated by the untold stories of classic cinema, this interview with Ivor Powell offers a rare insider’s view.
Exclusive Interview with Jaws @50 Director, Laurent Bouzereaurent The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-07-24 | Episode 130 – Laurent Bouzereau on “Jaws at 50” In this special episode, I catch up with the legendary documentary filmmaker Laurent Bouzereau to discuss his latest project, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, premiering Friday 11th July at 8pm on National Geographic and streaming the same day on Disney+. Laurent, whose behind-the-scenes work on Jaws, Indiana Jones, and Spielberg has inspired me for years, reflects on the challenges of revisiting Jaws 30 years after his original 1995 documentary. We talk about the new angles he explored, from Spielberg’s emotional recollections and rare 8mm footage to fresh perspectives from filmmakers like Guillermo del Toro, Jim Cameron, and Jordan Peele. Recorded on the fly on Martha’s Vineyard during the Jaws 50th celebrations, this short but meaningful conversation touches on the legacy of Jaws, the humanity behind the production, and how Laurent’s approach has shifted over the years. Jaws @50 is now available to watch on Disney+.
131 - Phil Hawkins - From Fan Films to Features. The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-07-22 | In episode 131 of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with director Phil Hawkins to talk about his journey from a kid obsessed with Jurassic Park and Star Wars to a filmmaker directing commercials, indie features, and ambitious projects like Star Wars: Origins and the Sky Original Robin in the Hoods. Phil shares how he taught himself filmmaking as a teenager, cutting together VHS tapes and roping in friends to create homemade sci-fi adventures. We discuss how this DIY approach evolved into making shorts and, later, a career in commercials – where he honed his craft in visual storytelling, working with big crews, and balancing creative ambition with tight schedules. We also talk about his fan-favourite short film Star Wars: Origins, which went viral for its bold concept and cinematic scale, and how it helped open doors to bigger opportunities, including his recent family feature Robin in the Hoods. Along the way, Phil reflects on the importance of collaboration, and the lessons learned from juggling creativity with industry realities. If you’re interested in how a director moves from self-taught beginnings to studio-backed projects while staying true to his passion, this is a conversation worth hearing. Listen now to hear: • How VHS edits and fan films became Phil’s film school. • The leap from shorts to commercials – and what commercials teach about storytelling. • Making Star Wars: Origins and the risks and rewards of fan filmmaking. • Crafting Robin in the Hoods and wrangling a cast of young actors for an adventure film. • Phil’s thoughts on building a creative, respectful set environment.Star Wars Origins (youtube.com/watch?v=SVSox0qApO4&t=1s) All the links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
I had a great time on Nigel Smiths tour of the Carlton cinema on Essex road in London this week. The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-07-19 | ...
130 - Jaws @ 50 with Director Laurent Bouzereau The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-07-08 | Episode 130 – Laurent Bouzereau on “Jaws at 50” In this special episode, I catch up with the legendary documentary filmmaker Laurent Bouzereau to discuss his latest project, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, premiering Friday 11th July at 8pm on National Geographic and streaming the same day on Disney+. Laurent, whose behind-the-scenes work on Jaws, Indiana Jones, and Spielberg has inspired me for years, reflects on the challenges of revisiting Jaws 30 years after his original 1995 documentary. We talk about the new angles he explored, from Spielberg’s emotional recollections and rare 8mm footage to fresh perspectives from filmmakers like Guillermo del Toro, Jim Cameron, and Jordan Peele. Recorded on the fly on Martha’s Vineyard during the Jaws 50th celebrations, this short but meaningful conversation touches on the legacy of Jaws, the humanity behind the production, and how Laurent’s approach has shifted over the years. Also in this episode: • An update on my Joe Alves documentary and the incredible support from GoFundMe donors • A mention of my new two-part article on ILM's animation legacy: ILM Evolutions: Animation from Rotoscoping to Rango – now live on ILM.comLinktree (https://linktr.ee/filmumentarieshttps://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) Support the podcast (patreon.com/c/jamiebenning) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
129 – The Star Wars Influence: Live at the BFI’s Film on Film Festival The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-06-25 | Episode 129 – The Star Wars Influence: Live at the BFI’s Film on Film Festival In this special live episode, I join Doug Weir—Remastering Lead at the BFI—and post-production veteran Paul Collard on stage for a panel titled The Star Wars Influence, recorded at the BFI’s Film on Film Festival. Curated and hosted by Doug, the panel explores how George Lucas’s frustrations with the Hollywood studio system led to a wave of technological innovation that forever changed the filmmaking landscape. From the creation of ILM to the invention of motion control, EditDroid, SoundDroid, and digital cinema tools, we look at how Lucas empowered a generation of problem-solvers and helped pioneer the digital workflow we now take for granted. This conversation took place just before a rare screening of Star Wars from a 35mm Technicolor dye-transfer print—an experience I’ll be covering in more detail in a bonus episode coming soon. Topics include: • Lucas’s break from the traditional studio system • The founding of ILM and the Dykstraflex motion control rig • VistaVision, optical printers, and visual effects R&D • The origins of EditDroid and non-linear editing • The value of Technicolor dye-transfer prints • Lucasfilm’s wider influence on Pixar, Avid, and beyondThanks again to Doug and Paul—and to the BFI for hosting such a thoughtful and inspiring event.Joe Alves Doco GoFundMe (gofund.me/0c6924bf) All my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
128 - Anthony Forrest - Move Along Star Wars Actor The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-06-10 | In this special archival episode, I speak with actor and musician Anthony Forrest, best known to Star Wars fans for playing the sandtrooper who famously waved Obi-Wan and Luke past an Imperial checkpoint with the words: “These aren’t the droids we’re looking for.” Originally recorded over a decade ago, this conversation explores Forrest’s original casting as “Fixer” in the cut Tosche Station scenes, his time filming in Tunisia, and how George Lucas unexpectedly tapped him to suit up as a trooper. Anthony also reflects on working alongside Alec Guinness, the skepticism among the British crew, and the surreal experience of flying home with champagne and Star Wars stickers courtesy of Sir Alec himself. Beyond Star Wars, we also discuss Anthony’s career in music, his time busking in the London Underground, and his low-budget feature The Ballad of Bob’s Garage. Listen in for rarely heard stories from behind the mask. Mentioned in this episode: • Deleted scenes from A New Hope • Filming in Tunisia and London • Busking and recording in the London Underground • Alec Guinness and the 2007 Academy screening • The Ballad of Bob’s Garage projectGoFundMe for our Martha’s Vineyard shoot — any support is greatly appreciated!All my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
BONUS - Director Paul King on Beneath London - The Story of Alien War The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-06-04 | In this bonus episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I catch up with returning guest Paul King, who you might remember from our previous conversation about his Shining locations documentary, Shine On. This time, Paul’s back with another nostalgic deep-dive — his new short documentary Beneath London: The Story of Alien War. We talk about the origins of the Alien-themed walkthrough experience that terrified visitors to London’s Trocadero in the early 1990s, how Paul tracked down rare archive footage and the people who made it happen, and why he thinks this story still has the potential to grow into a feature-length film. Watch Paul’s documentary on YouTube:Beneath London: The Story of Alien War (youtube.com/watch?v=VhVjadAGT2c) In the episode, we cover: • What Alien War was and how it came together • The strange story of how the creators got official backing from 20th Century Fox • How the experience pushed boundaries long before immersive cinema became a thing • Paul’s process of turning archival material and interviews into a compelling short filmI also share an update on my own documentary, Not Your Average Joe, about legendary Jaws production designer Joe Alves. I’m heading to Martha’s Vineyard this June to film key interviews during the 50th anniversary celebrations — a rare and important opportunity to capture these stories on location. If you’d like to support that project, you can find the GoFundMe here:gofund.me/13795716 Thanks for listening. More behind-the-scenes conversations coming soon.This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
127 – Max Evry on A Masterpiece in Disarray: David Lynch’s Dune – An Oral History. The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-05-27 | --------------------------------------------------Our Joe Alves GoFundMe Campaign (gofund.me/c01f4b14) --------------------------------------------------Episode 129 – Max Evry on A Masterpiece in Disarray: David Lynch’s Dune – An Oral History.In this episode, I speak with film journalist and author Max Evry about his brilliant and in-depth book A Masterpiece in Disarray: David Lynch’s Dune – An Oral History. What began as a 150-page entry in a cult film series soon grew into a 560-page epic — much like the film it covers. Max and I talk about the origins of the project, how he managed to get David Lynch himself to take part, and why the oral history format was the right approach for telling this complex story. We also chat about the book’s structure, Max’s archive work, and how his own experiences as a filmmaker gave him a deeper empathy for the challenges Lynch faced. There’s even a fascinating discussion about Max’s restoration of a long-lost scene featuring Molly Wryn — which you can now watch here (youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=dbaYiWE3Ttk) :You can find Max’s book here. (amzn.to/4k41l5V) If you enjoy these behind-the-scenes deep dives, please consider supporting the podcast or sharing it with a film-loving friend - patreon.com/jamiebenning (patreon.com/jamiebenning) --------------------------------------------------Our Joe Alves GoFundMe Campaign (gofund.me/c01f4b14) --------------------------------------------------This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
126 - Inside the BFI National Archives - Film on Film Festival - Special Episode The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-05-08 | Episode 126 - Inside the BFI National Archives - Film on Film Festival - Special EpisodeFor this early release of the podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes at the BFI National Archive in Berkhamsted. The reason for the early drop? Tickets for the BFI’s excellent Film on Film Festival go on sale to the public tomorrow, 9th May 2025, and I wanted to give you a bit of insight into what makes this event so special. The Film on Film Festival runs from the 12th to the 15th of June and is dedicated entirely to screenings on physical film – from 35mm to 16mm, and even nitrate. It’s a rare opportunity to experience films as they were originally shown, in all their analogue glory. While at the archive, I spoke with several of the experts who help make the festival possible and who work daily to preserve the history of cinema. You’ll hear from: • James Bell – Senior Curator of Fiction and Programme Director, Film on Film Festival • Chris Stenner – Film Laboratory Lead • Sonia Genaitay – Curatorial Archivist • Martin Coffill – Projectionist and QC • David Jones – Film Scanning LeadA huge thanks to Kieron Webb and Sarah Bemand for organising the day. It was a real privilege to explore the archive, meet the people who keep the machines running and the prints in circulation, and to share it all with you here. If you're attending the festival on the 12th, please do let me know and be sure to say "hi".BFI Film on Film (whatson.bfi.org.uk/Online/default.asp?BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::permalink=foff25&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::context_id=) All my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Walter Murch on his new book The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-04-22 | t’s hard to believe, but The Filmumentaries Podcast has reached its 125th episode — and, with it, the fifth anniversary of the show. What started as a passion project to shine a light on behind-the-scenes artists has grown into something I’m incredibly proud of, thanks in large part to the generous support and enthusiasm of listeners like you. To mark this milestone, I’m thrilled to welcome back one of my most frequent and most requested guests: the legendary Walter Murch.Walter needs little introduction. He’s a film editor, sound designer, director, and author whose influence spans across six decades and some of cinema’s most groundbreaking works. From Apocalypse Now to The English Patient, his ability to move between the practical and the philosophical, the technical and the intuitive, has set him apart as one of the true deep thinkers in film.In this conversation, we focus on his new book Suddenly Something Clicked, which is being published by Faber & Faber on 8th May 2025. I’m very grateful to the team at Faber for kindly sending me a preview copy.The book is described by Walter as a “twisted rope” of theory, practice, and history — and it certainly lives up to that. One moment he’s describing the physicality of using a Moviola, the next he’s diving into neuroscience, the grammar of dreams, and the editing instincts wired into our biology.Our conversation mirrors that style — covering a huge range of topics: from how children today seem to absorb film grammar instinctively, to the metaphorical use of sound design, to the unique experience of physically handling film versus the digital environment we now work in. Walter shares his thoughts on AI in filmmaking, and how spontaneity — that ineffable spark of human creativity — is something machines still struggle to replicate.We also discuss the idea of cinematic language as something akin to a dream-state, and how editing — especially in the hands of someone like Walter — is not just about rhythm and continuity, but about shaping perception itself. As he puts it, good editing leads the audience into a sustained state of déjà vu: surprised by what happens, yet somehow knowing it had to happen that way.As a live editor myself, working in fast-turnaround TV, I found many parallels in his approach — particularly his thoughts on instinctive editing, the physicality of tools, and the importance of creating space for ideas to percolate.This episode, more than most, encapsulates what I love about making this podcast. It’s about discovery, about conversation, and about learning from the people who shape the films we love in ways we don’t always see.If you’ve been with me from the beginning or just discovered the podcast, thank you for listening. Here’s to the next 125.You can pre-order “Suddenly Something Clicked” now at Faber’s store.
Jeff Okun - The Fixer The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-04-22 | Episode 124 “Push the Button”: The Curious Career of Jeff OkunLike many visual effects artists of a certain vintage, Jeff Okun didn’t plan on a career in VFX. In fact, by his own account, he didn't even plan to work in film at all. "I’m a completely accidental human being," he told me with a chuckle. His ambitions began on a very different stage — as a stand-up comic — until a sharply atheistic routine delivered at home earned him a lifetime ban from performing in front of his parents.Instead, Okun’s creative outlet took the form of magic tricks, homemade stunts, and Super 8 visual gags. “I would blow up model ships and fake fights in rush hour traffic,” he said, “and I’d be in the bushes filming with ketchup for blood.” All of this childhood chicanery ultimately gave way to a fascination with the trickery of movies — the kind of illusions you could only pull off with careful camera work, sleight-of-hand editing, and an appetite for mischief.Learning the Craft the Hard WayOkun's first job in film was with the legendary graphic designer and filmmaker Saul Bass. The experience was, in Okun's words, “awful,” but also profoundly formative. As Bass’s gopher-turned-editor, Okun was thrown into the deep end. “I hated him,” he laughed. “But he taught me everything: editing, sound, post-production supervision, how to shoot, how to frame. It was a masterclass.”Working for Bass meant operating in a visually precise, effects-heavy style — layering camera moves, creating in-camera effects, and often relying on labor-intensive optical printing processes. When optical houses turned down Bass’s business — too exacting, too expensive — Okun stepped in with cost-saving workarounds and pricing schemes that actually worked. “We doubled the budget, added a contingency, and somehow still landed exactly on target.”“By the end of it, I ended up loving the man,” Okun said. “Not because he gave me a break, but because he was so specific and difficult to please that when you did please him, it meant something."Hear the entire conversation in episode 124 of the podcast.https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries
125 - Suddenly Something Clicked - With Walter Murch The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-04-22 | Episode 125 – Walter Murch: Suddenly Something Clicked (And 5 Years of Filmumentaries!) In this special 125th episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I’m joined once again by the legendary Walter Murch — editor, sound designer, director, author, and true philosopher of cinema. This also happens to mark five years since I launched the podcast, so it felt only fitting to celebrate with someone whose insights have shaped not only cinema itself but how we understand it. Walter and I discuss his new book, Suddenly Something Clicked, which is due for release on 8th May 2025 via Faber & Faber (thank you to them for kindly sending me a preview copy). The book is a rich mix of theory, practice, and history — true to Walter’s description of it as a “twisted rope” of ideas. We cover everything from the evolution of editing, cinema as a biological and neurological phenomenon, the mysteries of sound design, and even the mechanics of live television editing. Walter reflects on the analog vs digital shift, why sound should be metaphorical as well as realistic, and how editing mirrors the way our own bodies process time and perception. We also get into Return to Oz, AI in filmmaking, and his thoughts on films like Adolescence and 1917 that attempt to eliminate the cut entirely. As ever, it’s a joy to speak with Walter — and I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did recording it.All my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) Suddenly Something Clicked (faber.co.uk/product/9780571328857-suddenly-something-clicked/?srsltid=AfmBOopCb2LfCZ3G1qY8Aho-0fPTWPeAyqhecVEpuzPn6ZlJnWcHECSX) Original 1977 Star Wars Screening (bfi.org.uk/news/bfi-film-film-festival-line-up-star-wars-twin-peaks) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
BONUS - Star Wars Celebration Japan - Day 3 Report from Rachel Pearson The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-04-22 | Hi all,Here's Rachel's second and final report from Star Wars Celebration Japan.We hope you enjoy it!This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
BONUS - Star Wars Celebration Japan - Day 1 and 2 Report from Rachel Pearson The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-04-19 | As promised, here's report of the goings on in Tokyo at Star Wars Celebration, day one and two from Rachel Pearson. More tomorrow.This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
BONUS EPISODE - Vickie Sampson on those stolen Return of the Jedi Tapes The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-04-19 | In my previous episode I spoke with ADR specialist and dialoge editor Vickie Sampson. In that conversation she mentioned briefly about the time the Return of the Jedi audio recordings were stolen from her car. "That's a story for a whole other podcast", she remarked. So I contacted Vickie to ask her if she could record the story. She kindly obliged, and so here it is as a short Bonus episode for you folks!This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
124 - Push the Button - The Curious Career of Jeff Okun The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-04-08 | Episode 124 Like many visual effects artists of a certain vintage, Jeff Okun didn’t plan on a career in VFX. In fact, by his own account, he didn't even plan to work in film at all. "I’m a completely accidental human being," he told me with a chuckle. His ambitions began on a very different stage — as a stand-up comic — until a sharply atheistic routine delivered at home earned him a lifetime ban from performing in front of his parents. Instead, Okun’s creative outlet took the form of magic tricks, homemade stunts, and Super 8 visual gags. “I would blow up model ships and fake fights in rush hour traffic,” he said, “and I’d be in the bushes filming with ketchup for blood.” All of this childhood chicanery ultimately gave way to a fascination with the trickery of movies — the kind of illusions you could only pull off with careful camera work, sleight-of-hand editing, and an appetite for mischief. Learning the Craft the Hard Way Okun's first job in film was with the legendary graphic designer and filmmaker Saul Bass. The experience was, in Okun's words, “awful,” but also profoundly formative. As Bass’s gopher-turned-editor, Okun was thrown into the deep end. “I hated him,” he laughed. “But he taught me everything: editing, sound, post-production supervision, how to shoot, how to frame. It was a masterclass.” Working for Bass meant operating in a visually precise, effects-heavy style — layering camera moves, creating in-camera effects, and often relying on labor-intensive optical printing processes. When optical houses turned down Bass’s business — too exacting, too expensive — Okun stepped in with cost-saving workarounds and pricing schemes that actually worked. “We doubled the budget, added a contingency, and somehow still landed exactly on target.”“By the end of it, I ended up loving the man,” Okun said. “Not because he gave me a break, but because he was so specific and difficult to please that when you did please him, it meant something. He learned how to prep lineup sheets, how to composite with interpositives, and how to break down 140-layer optical shots into manageable components. “I was just the fix-it guy. I didn't know what I was doing half the time. I still don't.” VFX by Way of Accident It wasn’t long before optical houses and producers began calling on Okun when their films were in trouble. One fix led to another. His reputation grew as someone who could step into a crisis and calmly solve it — usually with a combination of ingenuity, humour, and brute-force trial and error. “I think Saul trained me to see puzzles. That’s what it comes down to — seeing what’s broken and putting it together in a way that works. Most of the time, it wasn’t about having the right answer. It was about trying 50 wrong ones.” This kind of lateral thinking came into its own on films like Stargate (1994), where Okun — working with Jeff Kleiser and Diana Walczak’s fledgling CG company — had to convince director Roland Emmerich that computer graphics were even worth attempting. “Roland didn’t believe in CG. So we built the shot, made the CG glider deliberately less detailed to match the miniature footage. Showed it to him. He said, ‘Exactly — that’s what I’m talking about. Miniatures are the way to go.’ And we said, ‘Nope. All CG.’ That’s when he finally came around.” (Fun fact, VFX supervisor Jeff Okun was paid homage by Brent Spiner in Independence Day in the role of Dr. Brackish Okun. There’s uh, a slight resemblance.) - Credit to Nofilmschool.comPenguins, Moose, and the Invisible Effect Okun is quick to point out he wasn’t a Star Wars kid. In fact, he avoided the original film for weeks on principle — he doesn’t do queues. But he did get a behind-the-scenes tour of ILM’s original Van Nuys facility courtesy of Bass and George Lucas. There, he saw motion control rigs, Richard Edlund on his knees filming the crawl, Phil Tippett animating the chess game, and pyro tests in the parking lot. It was, he admits, a little magical — though it didn’t change the fact that his creative allegiance remained with illusion, not spectacle. “My favourite effects are the invisible ones. I started out as a magician. The goal is to make people believe there’s no trick. That’s where the real artistry is.” Still, that didn’t stop him from sneaking penguins and moose into the background of multiple films. He once gave a horse antlers in a Cameron Crowe movie. In Blood Diamond, he added a huge penguin family to a wide evacuation shot — no one noticed. “It’s like the gorilla basketball video. You just don’t see what you’re not looking for.” The Shark That Ate Sam Perhaps his most famous — or infamous — contribution to pop culture came on Deep Blue Sea. Samuel L. Jackson had just delivered a particularly rough eight-page monologue, and Okun, unimpressed with the script, asked Jackson what he wanted to do. “He just said, ‘Kill me.’ So I said, ‘If you make it to the front of the moon pool, I’ll kill you.’” The surprise shark attack that in...
Sound Editor Vickie Sampson was born in a trim bin The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-03-27 | Episode 123 of The Filmumentaries Podcast is now live, and this time I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with veteran sound editor, ADR supervisor and director, Vickie Sampson.Vickie’s career in film sound goes all the way back to the early 70s, and she’s still going strong. She grew up surrounded by cinema – her mum was Kay Rose, the first woman to win an Oscar for sound editing, and her dad was a director and editor. Between swimming in Verna Fields' pool while Spielberg filmed Jaws inserts, to recording ADR with Keanu Reeves on Speed, Vickie has seen and heard it all.We talked about:What a dialogue editor really doesWhy good sound starts in pre-productionWhy so many indie films get sound wrongWorking on Return of the Jedi, Romancing the Stone, Ordinary People, On Golden Pond, Christmas Vacation, Tank Girl, The Fifth Element and moreHow to teach the next generation to respect soundAnd yes, that time the Jedi reels got stolen from her car…One hour wasn’t enough, but there’s so much in here for filmmakers and film lovers alike. Vickie’s stories are funny, insightful, and packed with practical wisdom.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
123 - The Art of Dialogue Editing - With Vickie Sampson The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-03-25 | Episode 123: Vickie Sampson – Dialogue, Detail, and the Art of Sound In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I speak with sound editor, dialogue and ADR supervisor, and filmmaker Vickie Sampson. Vickie’s career began in the early 1970s, and she’s since built up a mighty list of credits including Romancing the Stone, The River, Tank Girl, The Fifth Element, Ordinary People, and Return of the Jedi. She’s also the daughter of the trailblazing Kay Rose – the first woman to win an Oscar for sound editing. We discuss: • Growing up surrounded by film and sound • Her hands-on experiences on shows like The Big Valley and The Rifleman • The vital but often misunderstood role of dialogue and ADR editing • What makes a great production sound handover (and how so many indies get it wrong!) • ‘Temp love’ and the challenges of directors getting attached to scratch tracks • Working with actors like Keanu Reeves, Meryl Streep and Sigourney Weaver • Her time in London supervising ADR for Return of the Jedi – including a story about the reels being stolen from her car • Why clean dialogue is the bedrock of a good film • Her continued work as a director and teacherThis one’s packed with stories, insights, and practical advice for anyone working in – or just obsessed with – film sound. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: • Skywalking Through Neverland Podcast – Episode 72 (skywalkingthroughneverland.com) – More on Vickie’s Jedi reels story • Simon Hayes' article on the sound of Wicked (playbill.com/article/how-sound-mixer-simon-hayes-captured-the-wicked-movies-live-singing) • “A Letter from Your Sound Department” (available upon request or via Vickie’s site)Support the podcast:Grab some merch: filmumentaries.creator-spring.com (filmumentaries.creator-spring.com) Or support on Patreon for just $1 a month: patreon.com/jamiebenning (patreon.com/jamiebenning) Follow me on social media:@filmumentaries on Threads, Instagram and Facebook Filmumentaries Linktree (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Howard Berry on Mike Leigh The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-03-18 | Here's director of "Her Name Was Moviola", Howard Berry on approaching the legendary Mike Leigh!
Phil Tippett on moving up at ILM The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-03-16 | Here's VFX legend Phil Tippett talking about moving up the ladder at ILM for Return of the Jedi.
122 - Her Name Was Moviola - With Director Howard Berry The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-03-11 | In this conversation, I speak with Howard Berry about his film project 'Her Name Was Moviola', which explores the art of film editing through the lens of a a traditional editing setup. Howard shares the origins of the project, his connections with notable filmmakers like Walter Murch and Mike Leigh, who are both involved in the projet. And the challenges he faced in acquiring the necessary equipment for the film. The chat highlights the technical aspects of film editing and the collaborative nature of filmmaking. We look at the intricacies of documentary filmmaking, particularly focusing on the editing process and the relationship between directors and editors. Howard shares insights into his experience editing a film about editing, the challenges faced during production, and the importance of preserving cinematic stories. We also touch on the film's reception at various festivals and the future distribution plans. • The project began as an oral history of Elstree Studios. • Howard's connections in the film industry were crucial to the project's development. • Walter Murch's involvement was pivotal in shaping the film's direction. • The film aims to document the process of editing, not just the final product. • Acquiring vintage equipment like the movieola was a significant challenge. • Howard's persistence in networking led to valuable collaborations. • Mike Leigh's willingness to share footage was a turning point for the project. • The technical aspects of editing are often overlooked but are essential to the craft. • The film serves as a tribute to the art of film editing. • Howard's journey reflects the importance of community and support in filmmaking. Howard emphasizes the importance of preserving historical stories in film. • The documentary was always intended to focus on the technical and psychological aspects of editing. • Walter Murch's preference for a nuts-and-bolts approach shaped the film's direction. • The relationship between a director and editor can be tense yet collaborative. • Critiques from directors can enhance the editing process and lead to better outcomes. • Editing a film about editing presents unique challenges and pressures. • Trust between filmmakers is crucial for a successful project. • The film has received positive feedback from audiences and critics alike. • Festival screenings have provided valuable exposure and audience engagement. • Future distribution plans aim to reach a wider audience through streaming services.Filmumentaries Linktree (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) Her Name Was Moviola (moviolathemovie.com) The Elstree Project (theelstreeproject.org) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Jim Frederick on cutting Kubricks last trailer The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-03-07 | In my latest episode I had a great chat with Jim Fredrick, creative marketing exec about his years in the film industry cutting trailers (amongst other things) for the movies we love. Jim's wonderful book "Opening Weekend,An Insider's Look at Marketing Hollywood's Hits and Flops" is a great read. Whether you're a seasoned film nerd or just starting out on your filmmaking journey, Jim's book will resonate with you.Here's Jim talking with me about his first trip to England to cut trailers for the recently passed @stanleykubrick.Hear the whole conversation on episode 121 of The Filmumentaries Podcast and go buy Jim's book!
121 - Marketing Hollywoods Hits and Flops with Jim Fredrick The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-02-25 | In this conversation, Jim shares his journey into the film industry, detailing how a little film called Star Wars inspired him to pursue a career in filmmaking. He discusses his early experiences in the industry, the evolution of trailer editing, and the critical role of marketing in film success. Jim reflects on his time at Castle Rock Entertainment, the challenges of marketing films like The Shawshank Redemption, and the importance of intuition in making marketing decisions. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of film marketing, exploring the challenges faced in promoting films like 'Shawshank Redemption' and the impact of initial reception on a film's legacy. We discuss the evolution of film reception over time, about iconic directors like Stanley Kubrick and franchises like Harry Potter. Highlighting the importance of creativity in marketing and the unique experiences that come with working on significant film projects.Jim's book - Opening Weekend is available here! (amzn.to/3D92jgN) Shawshank Redemption Trailer (youtube.com/watch?v=NmzuHjWmXOc) All my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries) This podcast is completely independent and made possible by listener support. If you’d like to help me keep making these episodes, you can join my Patreon community here: patreon.com/jamiebenning Watch more on YouTube:Check out the Filmumentaries YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes clips and extra content: youtube.com/filmumentariesAll my links (https://linktr.ee/filmumentaries)
Maryan Infield talks about being the only VFX camera op in the 1980s. Listen to more in latest ep The Filmumentaries Podcast 2025-02-24 | Here's Maryan Infield talking to me in episode 120 about the challenges of being the only VFX camera op on the crew after she left ILM. Maryan worked on Return of the Jedi and Dune in the 80s. Listen to her story now on Spotify, Apple or wherever you listen to podcasts.
