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by The Making Of
"The Making Of" explores the creative pros behind the most innovative films & TV shows in recent history. themakingof.substack.com
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- 4 days ago25 min
“Mayday” Directors John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein on Making the Apple TV Film
In this episode of The Making Of, we’re joined by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, the writer-director team behind Vacation, Game Night, and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, to go behind the scenes of their latest film, Apple TV’s MAYDAY, starring Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh. John and Jonathan take us inside the making of MAYDAY, reflect on the creative partnership they’ve built across more than a decade, and share advice for the next generation of filmmakers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Tackle production problems head-on with AJA’s latest productsFrom FS8 to OG-FiDO-4, AJA’s newest products address modern production demands. A 12G-SDI/SMPTE ST 2110 Media Processor, FS8 delivers powerful tools for navigating mismatched frame rates, rasters, and color spaces, streamlining audio routing, and more. OG-FiDO-4 openGear four-channel SDI/Fiber conversion cards let teams extend SDI infrastructure over fiber.Explore hereWhat’s Better Than Royalty Free Music?Music That Enhances Your Creative Experience.Unlimited music. Unlimited productions. One straightforward license.CSS Music gives filmmakers and content creators access to music from human composers, backed by a broad standard license with unlimited uses, unlimited productions, and no time limits.Find the right track faster with 8 powerful search options, then customize it for your production with custom-length and stem extraction tools. Plus, easily create playlists and generate cue sheets—all designed to make music licensing and production simpler.No hassles. No surprises. Just great music and tools built for creators.Explore here Post|Production World New YorkOct. 20-21 | New York, NYPost|Production World New York returns to NAB Show New York, October 20-21 at the Javits Center. Two days of high-impact training in editing, motion graphics, AI workflows, and visual storytelling, taught by the industry’s leading trainers in Premiere, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, and Cinema 4D.Discount Code: PPWTMORegister hereA Solution Built Around Your WorkflowThe OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Visit hereMeet G-RAID PROJECT 2G-RAID PROJECT 2 delivers high-performance storage for demanding video workflows. With dual 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class drives, Thunderbolt 3, and capacities up to 52TB, it’s built for 4K, 8K, VR, and content-intensive projects. Shop at Videoguys or call 800-323-2325 for expert advice. Visit herePodcast Rewind:Sept. 2026 - Ep. 150.Partner with The Making Of:Reach 275K film industry, broadcast pros, and
- 1 weeks ago16 min
Carlson Young on Directing “The Last Sunrise” for Amazon MGM Studios
In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Carlson Young to discuss her latest feature, The Last Sunrise, and her evolution from actor to director. Carlson reflects on her early years in front of the camera, including Scream: The TV Series and Emily in Paris, and how those experiences shaped her instincts as a filmmaker. She also takes us inside the making of The Last Sunrise, her collaboration with cinematographer Rob Givens, and shares advice for emerging filmmakers building their own careers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Tackle production problems head-on with AJA’s latest productsFrom FS8 to OG-FiDO-4, AJA’s newest products address modern production demands. A 12G-SDI/SMPTE ST 2110 Media Processor, FS8 delivers powerful tools for navigating mismatched frame rates, rasters, and color spaces, streamlining audio routing, and more. OG-FiDO-4 openGear four-channel SDI/Fiber conversion cards let teams extend SDI infrastructure over fiber. Explore here OWC @ IBC 2026OWC is bringing new storage and connectivity built for demanding video workflows to IBC 2026, including the Thunderbolt 5 Dock with Dual HDMI and the USB4 Hub. Stop by the booth to go hands-on with the gear and talk shop with the team.Learn more hereSportStreamSept. 15 | VirtualSportStream is a three-day event featuring vendors and experts focused on the impact of live streaming and production in today’s dynamic world of sports. Discover tips, tricks, and tools for remote production, live video streaming, professional graphics, and instant replay — all designed to help you capture the action and excitement of every game. From schools to pro leagues, we’re here to provide you with everything you need to elevate your sports productions and live streams. Join us September 15 – 17th, 2026! Your FREE one-time registration gains you access to three days of informative webinars, interviews with industry guests, live demos, chances to win great prizes, and more!Register hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Visit hereMeet G-RAID PROJECT 2G-RAID PROJECT 2 delivers high-performance storage for demanding video workflows. With dual 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class drives, Thunderbolt 3, and capacities up to 52TB, it’s built for 4K, 8K, VR, and content-intensive projects. Shop at Videoguys or call 800-323-2325 for expert advice.Visit herePodcast Rewind:Aug. 2026 - Ep. 149.Partner with The Making Of:Reach 275,000 film industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To explore advertising opportunities, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
- 2 weeks ago20 min
PBS KIDS’ Sara DeWitt on Back-to-School Programming, Navigating Funding Challenges & More
In this episode, we welcome Sara DeWitt, SVP & GM of PBS KIDS and Education, for a wide-ranging conversation about her background and career, her leadership role at PBS KIDS, and the organization’s mission to educate and inspire children nationwide. We discuss current and back-to-school programming, supporting early literacy, and how PBS KIDS is navigating funding challenges while continuing its educational mission. Sara also shares her perspective on the future of children’s media, education, and much more.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Futureproofing with IP videoAs production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today.SportStreamSept. 15 | VirtualSportStream is a three-day event featuring vendors and experts focused on the impact of live streaming and production in today’s dynamic world of sports. Discover tips, tricks, and tools for remote production, live video streaming, professional graphics, and instant replay — all designed to help you capture the action and excitement of every game. From schools to pro leagues, we’re here to provide you with everything you need to elevate your sports productions and live streams. Join us Sept 15–17th! Your FREE registration gains you access to three days of informative webinars, interviews with industry guests, live demos, chances to win great prizes, and more! Register hereA Solution Built Around Your WorkflowThe OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore hereElgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more.Learn more hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Explore herePodcast Rewind:Aug. 2026 - Ep. 148.Partner with The Making Of:Reach 275,000+ film production industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
- 3 weeks ago25 min
“LION” Cinematographer Sophie Darlington ASC on Crafting the Disney+ and National Geographic Documentary
In this episode, we welcome Sophie Darlington ASC, an award-winning cinematographer whose remarkable career has taken her around the world capturing wildlife and the natural world. In our conversation, she takes us behind the scenes of LION, sharing how she filmed the documentary over the course of four years in the wild, and what went into bringing the Jon Favreau–executive-produced project to life. She discusses the technologies used to craft the film’s stunning imagery, along with the challenges of this type of production. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Futureproofing with IP videoAs production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today.Post|Production World New YorkOct. 20-21 | New YorkSharpen your edit, your motion graphics, and your AI workflow in two days. Post|Production World New York brings certified trainers and working pros to NAB Show New York, October 20-21, with hands-on sessions in Premiere, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, and Cinema 4D. Registration includes show floor access.Discount Code: PPWTMORegister hereA Solution Built Around Your WorkflowThe OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore hereElgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more.Explore hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Read more herePodcast Rewind:July 2026 - Ep. 147.Partner with The Making Of:Reach 275,000+ film industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
- Aug 20, 202639 min
How 3 Indie Filmmakers Made an $8,000 Horror Feature—and Got Distribution
In this episode, we welcome co-directors Christian Hurley and Ben Oliphint, and producer Matt Wassong—the filmmakers behind the horror feature A Most Atrocious Thing, made for just $8,000 and ultimately landing distribution on Tubi and other platforms. In our conversation, the team shares the inspiration behind the film, writing it during the pandemic, shooting the feature on a shoestring budget, and navigating its evolving post-production process. They also demystify indie film distribution—sharing their experiences on the festival circuit, making a key connection at Tubi, and other secrets behind the film’s success.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Futureproofing with IP videoAs production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today.Screamfest 2026October 6-15 | Los Angeles, CAReady for a thrill? Screamfest returns October 6–15 with ten nights of spine-chilling world premieres, terrifying shorts, and exclusive filmmaker Q&As and panels. Catch the newest discoveries in horror on the big screen before anyone else. Don’t wait—secure your festival passes and tickets today before they sell out! Learn more hereA Solution Built Around Your WorkflowThe OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Read more hereElgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more.Explore herePodcast Rewind:July 2026 - Ep. 146.Partner with The Making Of:Reach 275K film production industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
- Aug 12, 202635 min
“Widow’s Bay” Cinematographer, Editor & Sound Mixer on Crafting the Hit Apple TV Series
In this episode, we welcome the creative team behind the 19-time Emmy-nominated Apple TV series Widow’s Bay—cinematographer Christian Sprenger ASC, editor Isaac Hagy ACE, and production sound mixer Kevin S. Parker. In our conversation, Christian, Isaac, and Kevin take us behind the scenes of the series, sharing how they helped create its distinctive blend of horror, comedy, mystery, and character. They break down the elements that shape the world of Widow’s Bay, while exploring their collaboration, and the tools and techniques behind some of the series’ most memorable moments. They also offer advice for students and filmmakers looking to improve their craft and grow their careers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Futureproofing with IP videoAs production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today.A Solution Built Around Your WorkflowThe OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more hereElgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Read more herePodcast Rewind:July 2026 - Ep. 145.Advertise with The Making Of:Reach 270K film production industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
- Aug 5, 202640 min
"Other Mommy" Cinematographer Lowell A. Meyer on Making the Horror Film, Crafting "Tuner," & More
In this episode, we welcome Lowell A. Meyer, cinematographer of Other Mommy, Tuner, Knock at the Cabin, Thunder Road, and the Apple TV+ series Servant. In our conversation, Lowell shares his early inspirations, his journey to becoming a feature film cinematographer, and about the making of Tuner and Other Mommy. He also breaks down the tools and techniques used on Tuner, offering behind-the-scenes insights into his creative process, as well as invaluable advice for the next generation of filmmakers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Futureproofing with IP videoAs production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today.A Solution Built Around Your WorkflowThe OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more hereCost Effective Sports Video Production GuideHosted by Key Code MediaThursday, August 6 | 1-2PM EDTMid-tier sports programs, college athletics departments, and K-12 media teams are being asked to produce more live content for traditional and emerging sports with less time, fewer staff, and tighter budgets. The challenge is not just finding the right gear. It is building a production workflow that looks professional, is easy to operate, and can be used consistently by staff, students, and volunteers without requiring a large technical team.In this Broadcast2Post Live Podcast, host Michael Kammes will be joined by Dennis Trapani, Associate Athletics Director for Broadcast and Video Production at the University of Wyoming. Together, they will explore how schools and organizations are creating broadcast-quality sports productions using cost-effective tools, practical system design, and streamlined workflows. Register hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Read more hereElgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore herePodcast Rewind:July 2026 - Ep. 144.Explore a Partnership with The Making Of:Reach 270,000 film production industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
- Jul 30, 202643 min
Natasha Braier ASC, ADF on Crafting "I Love Boosters," DeepLight Community, & More
In this episode, we welcome Natasha Braier ASC, ADF, the cinematographer behind acclaimed films such as She Said, Honey Boy, The Neon Demon, Gloria Bell, and I Love Boosters. In our conversation, Natasha shares her journey from her roots in Argentina to building a career in Los Angeles, along with a behind-the-scenes look at the making of I Love Boosters, directed by Boots Riley. She also discusses DeepLight, the cinematography community she founded, and offers thoughtful advice for the next generation of filmmakers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Futureproofing with IP videoAs production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today.A Solution Built Around Your WorkflowThe OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more hereIntelligent Production HubNew this summer from the Intelligent Production Hub: hands-on training in the AI and real-time tools working productions run on.Intro to NVIDIA NvRTX (Jul 29), AI Video Creators Workshop (Aug 7), AI Creativity with Comfy (Aug 12), plus role-based AI sessions for editing, VFX, sound, and design.See the full schedule hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows.Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors. Read more hereElgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more.Explore herePodcast Rewind:July 2026 - Ep. 143.Explore a Partnership with The Making Of:Reach over 270,000 film production industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this newsletter. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
About The Making Of
"The Making Of" explores the creative pros behind the most innovative films & TV shows in recent history. themakingof.substack.com
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