In this episode, host Tom Fox welcomes Susan Wilder, a seasoned storyteller, actor, filmmaker, and artist. Susan shares her journey from starting as an actor later in life to transitioning to the other side of the camera as a director and filmmaker. She discusses the importance of storytelling both personally and professionally, the creative process behind directing and filmmaking, and her directorial debut with the film ‘What Remains. Additionally, Susan offers insight into character development, the collaborative nature of filmmaking, and the importance of authenticity. For anyone passionate about storytelling, whether in compliance or the arts, Susan’s message is clear—pursue your passion with dedication and creativity.

Key highlights:

• The Importance of Storytelling
• Transitioning from Acting to Filmmaking
• Directorial Debut and Current Projects
• Creative Process and Character Development
• Artistic Pursuits and Inspirations
• Advice for Aspiring Storytellers

Resources:

Susan Wilder on Instagram

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this episode, I interview Tyler Mann, a movie director known for his debut feature film, ‘I Voted.’ Tyler shares his journey into filmmaking, from childhood stop-motion videos to studying at the University of Texas at Arlington. They delve into the inspiration behind ‘I Voted,’ a politically charged film set during a tense presidential election, and discuss the challenges and rewards of making the movie. Tyler emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, collaboration, and creative integrity in filmmaking, sharing insights from his on-set experiences. He also offers advice for aspiring filmmakers and talks about the film’s reception on the festival circuit.

Key highlights:

• Tyler Mann’s Filmmaking Journey
• The Intersection of Film, Politics, and Leadership
• Inspiration Behind ‘I Voted’
• Challenges and Rewards of Filmmaking
• Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

Resources:

Ruined Man Productions Website

Ruined Man Productions on Facebook

I Voted The Movie

Tyler Mann on LinkedIn

Tyler Mann on Facebook

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

Listeners will find Michael’s insights into the creative process and the importance of not ‘acting’ but ‘being’ quite enlightening. He also discusses marketing as an actor, leveraging his sales background to network and promote his work effectively. Additionally, Michael emphasizes the value of helping others in the industry and paying it forward. The episode wraps up with Michael sharing his favorite roles, including an emotionally powerful film about the Holocaust, and his upcoming projects, further highlighting his dynamic range as an actor.

Key highlights:

• Michael’s Journey into Acting
• Austin’s Vibrant Film Scene
• Career Highlights and Notable Roles
• The Creative Process
• Networking and Marketing Strategies

Resources:

Michael Edenbaum on IMDb

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

Marcus Davila, a Navy veteran turned filmmaker, channels his vision and inspiration into cinema through LionsAct Productions, a company he co-founded with his wife, Sabrina Trevino. With a belief that true vision in filmmaking stems from unity, Marcus emphasizes the importance of collaboration, bringing together diverse talents to achieve a common artistic goal. His approach to film is deeply rooted in his experiences, both in the military and through the guidance of his wife, inspiring him to provide opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and actors. Through mentorship and community outreach, Marcus is dedicated to nurturing new talent and creating meaningful cinematic experiences that resonate with audiences globally.

Key highlights:

• Transitioning from Navy to Impactful Film Production
• Empowering Local Talent in San Antonio Entertainment
• Evolving LionsAct Productions through Global Partnerships
• LionsAct Productions Networking for Creative Collaborations

Resources:

Marcus Davila on IMDb

Marcus Davila on Facebook

LionsAct Productions on Facebook

LionsAct Productions on Instagram

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes—Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with Goodwyn, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In episode 10, the concluding episode of ‘Into the Darkness,’ host Tom Fox welcomes back filmmaker CJ Goodwyn and discusses the post-production process, including work with the composer on the score and challenges to completing the project under tight deadlines. CJ discusses the marketing strategies, including successful ticket sales and navigating the complexities of getting the film distributed in theaters. He shares his insights on the Digital Cinema Package (DCP) and offers advice for aspiring filmmakers. He emphasizes the importance of patience, discipline, and solid pre-production planning. The episode concludes with details on the film’s premiere and CJ’s plans.

Highlights include:

• Post-Production Journey
• Understanding Digital Cinema Package (DCP)
• Publicizing the Film
• Mentorship and Team Building
• Premiere Night Excitement
• Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

Resources

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes - Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with Goodwyn, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In episode 8, Tom Fox visited with Michelle Masker, who plays the villain in the movie Sherlock Holmes - Mare of the Night.

Michelle Masker's acting journey is a testament to her dedication and passion for the craft, which she rekindled in 2014 after a hiatus to focus on sports. Based primarily in Texas cities like Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, Michelle has built a diverse portfolio that includes commercials, independent films, and notable roles in feature films. Her standout role as the lead antagonist in "Sherlock Holmes, Mare of the Night" gave her a unique opportunity to explore complex character dynamics, a challenge she embraced with enthusiasm and gratitude. Michelle regards this project, under the direction of CJ Goodwyn, as a pivotal moment in her career, allowing her to showcase her talent on a broader stage and inspiring her to engage more actively with her growing audience on social media.

Key highlights:

• Masker's Dedication to Authentic Acting Roles
• Powerful Female Villain Challenges Sherlock Holmes
• Emphasizing Preparation and Collaboration in Filmmaking
• Film's Role in Michelle's Career Growth

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes - Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with Goodwyn, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In episode 9, Tom Fox visits with Taylor King, an actress in the movie Sherlock Holmes - Mare of the Night.

Taylor King is an emerging filmmaker and actor who has found a nurturing environment for artistic growth in the Texas Hill Country. Through her work on the "Sherlock Holmes - Mare of the Night" project, she embraced the unique challenges of a smaller-scale production, where collaboration with a tight-knit crew was key to achieving ambitious cinematic effects. Taylor's experience on set expanded her acting capabilities and confidence and highlighted the importance of adaptability and teamwork in filmmaking. By cherishing the supportive and creative atmosphere of the Hill Country, Taylor looks forward to future projects and continues to inspire others with her passion for storytelling and performance.

Key Highlights

• Creative Exploration: Filmmaking in the Texas Hill Country
• Enhancing Acting Skills Through Musical Theater
• Unified Effort: Taylor King's Film Experience
• Growth Through Collaborative Film Experiences

Resources

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes – Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with Goodwyn, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In episode 7, I visit with Les Best, the lead actor and portrayer of Sherlock Holmes in the movie Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night.

Initially drawn to the allure of stage acting in New York City, Les Best discovered his true passion for filmmaking while working on Hollywood sets in Austin over a decade ago. Embracing the vibrant filmmaking scene of the Texas Hill Country, he now takes center stage as Sherlock Holmes. Best champions that authentic storytelling, driven by passion and talent rather than hefty budgets, resonates profoundly with audiences, urging cinephiles to support and appreciate independent projects like his own. Through his collaboration with director CJ Goodwyn, Best highlights the meticulous attention to detail in costuming and set design and the enriching experience of a collaborative, dedicated team, ensuring that their film will capture and surprise viewers with its quality and depth.

Key highlights:

• Creative Filmmaking Stories from Texas Hill Country
• Collaborative Bond Between Actor and Director
• Collaborative Actor-Led Rehearsal Process in Film
• Authentic Period Environment Enhances Actor Performances

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes – Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with CJ Goodwyn, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In episode 2, I visit with River Wellborn, a makeup artist on the Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night crew.

River Wellborn has a unique perspective on the artistry required for makeup in film versus stage settings. With a comprehensive background in both mediums, River underscores the significance of visibility as the primary differentiator—stage makeup demands more intensity and exaggeration to be perceptible from afar, while film makeup requires intricate, realistic details for up-close scrutiny. Her collaborative approach involves working closely with directors and actors to ensure the makeup aligns seamlessly with the character and narrative vision, as exemplified by his work on productions like “Sherlock Holmes Mayor of the Night” and “Little Shop of Horrors.” River’s passion for the dynamic interplay between film and theater continues to drive his exploration and innovative contributions to the art of storytelling through makeup.

Key highlights:

• Collaborative Filmmaking Stories in Texas Hill Country
• Theatrical vs. Cinematic Makeup Realism
• Collaborative Design for Film Character Makeup
• Multifaceted Artistic Journey in Theater and Film

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

We discuss the post-production process, including work with the composer on the score and challenges faced with completing the project under tight deadlines. CJ discusses the marketing strategies, including successful ticket sales and navigating the complexities of getting the film distributed in theaters. He shares his insights on the Digital Cinema Package (DCP) and offers advice for aspiring filmmakers. He emphasizes the importance of patience, discipline, and solid pre-production planning. The episode concludes with details on the film’s premiere and CJ’s plans.

Highlights include:

• Post-Production Journey
• Understanding Digital Cinema Package (DCP)
• Publicizing the Film
• Mentorship and Team Building
• Premiere Night Excitement
• Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes: Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with CJ Goodwyn, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In episode 2, I visited with Emily Edwards, who had the role of Mary Watson in Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night.

Emily Edwards, originally from Lubbock, Texas, has seamlessly transitioned from a rich stage performance background to the film industry, bringing her passion for character development to the forefront. Known for her recent role in “Sherlock Holmes—Mare of the Night,” Emily draws parallels between her interpretation of Mary Watson and the dynamics of the original Sherlock series, seeing her character as pivotal in exploring the intricate relationships with John Watson and Sherlock Holmes. The transition from theater to film has challenged Emily to adapt to the absence of real-time audience feedback, prompting her to rely on the collaborative nature of film sets and her instincts. Through thoughtful script analysis and engaging discussions with directors and co-actors, Emily has enhanced her craft, finding new depths in portraying complex character relationships on screen.

Key highlights:

• Mary Watson’s Influence on John’s Life
• Mary Watson and Sherlock Holmes
• Navigating the Transition from Theater to Film
• Script Analysis Enhances Character Dynamics on Screen

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes – Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with Goodwyn, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In this Episode 4, I visit with Kayla Rich, the First Assistant Director on Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night,

Kayla adeptly navigated the challenges as the First Assistant Director and now applies her skills to enhance the event’s visibility through strategic use of the film’s website and social media outreach. Rich is passionate about supporting independent creators and believes in the importance of community-centered entertainment, especially post-pandemic, reflected in her strategic focus on theatrical distribution and community engagement. The recent Halloween party in Kerrville, Texas, offered attendees the chance to meet the cast, preview the movie, and participate in a silent auction that supports local businesses, highlighting her commitment to fostering local community involvement and reviving the moviegoing experience.

Key highlights:

• Kayla’s Role on set-Camp Mom
• Top Takeaways for Kayla from the set and filming
• Revitalizing Theatrical Distribution for “Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night”
• Reviving Independent Cinema Through Theatrical Collaborations

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes – Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production, headed by film-maker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with Goodwyn, members of his crew, cast and production team. In this Episode 3, I visit with Derek Meier the Production designer who has made a significant impact on the film industry, Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night.

Meier discusses the varied roles he played on the set including Head of Wardrobe, Sound Operator, and Set Constructor. With a background in mechanics and extensive experience in home building and remodeling, Meier brought a practical and hands-on approach to his production design work. His dedication to authenticity and uniqueness is evident in his meticulous research and exploration of historical references, such as paintings and catalogs, to accurately capture the late Victorian style, avoiding more fantastical interpretations like steampunk. Meier’s comprehensive understanding of visual storytelling was shown through his strategic planning for set continuity and future scenes, ensuring a cohesive and immersive experience for audiences.

Key highlights:

• Authentic Late Victorian Set Design in Film
• Unveiling the Psychological Depths of Sherlock Holmes
• Set Production Designer: Crafting Visual Continuity Onset
• Balancing Fan Expectations in Sherlock Holmes Adaptation

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes – Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production headed by filmmaker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with CJ, members of his crew, the cast, and the production team. In episode 2, I visit with CJ Goodwyn about his latest film, Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night.

CJ Goodwyn is a filmmaker who brings a fresh perspective to the iconic character of Sherlock Holmes in his film “Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night.” CJ set out to investigate Holmes' darker, more human sides, concentrating on the psychological toll that decades of dealing with heinous crimes would have on him. By incorporating characters like Inspector Lestrade and Conan Doyle and tying in the hidden meaning of “The Nightmare” painting, CJ cleverly intertwines fiction with historical elements to enrich the narrative. Despite working with a limited budget, he emphasizes psychological horror and authentic storytelling, creating relatable characters that resonate with audiences through genuine human experiences and internal struggles.

Key highlights:

• Dark and Gritty Portrayal of Sherlock Holmes
• Nightmare Painting Inspires Mayor of the Night
• Narrative Depth through Psychological Horror Elements
• Utilizing Natural Lighting and Fog Effects
• Sherlock Holmes Film Expansion Strategy in the US

Resources:

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

In this Season One, we will feature the production of the film Sherlock Holmes -  Mare of the Night, a TriGoodwyn production, headed by film-maker CJ Goodwyn. We will visit with Goodwyn, members of his crew, cast and production team. In this Episode 1, I visit with Goodwyn on his work as an independent film producer. 

Goodwyn, who transitioned to filmmaking at the age of 29 after a sports-focused upbringing, has quickly emerged as a formidable voice in the indie film scene. His first feature film, "GH5," served as a robust learning platform, teaching him the intricacies of film production and highlighting the importance of technical proficiency, particularly in lighting and audio quality. Despite his films achieving global reach and positive audience feedback, Goodwyn candidly discusses the financial hurdles indie filmmakers face, emphasizing the necessity of innovative distribution strategies. Driven by a passion for storytelling and inspired by legendary directors, Goodwyn continues to tackle these challenges with unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of growth.

Key Highlights

·      Horror Film Inspires Career Change to Director

·      Mastering Filmmaking: Lessons in Patience and Quality

·      Crafting Cinematic Masterpieces: A Filmmaking Odyssey

·      Financial Struggles in Indie Film Distribution

·      Mastering Lighting Techniques in Filmmaking

Resources

Sherlock Holmes-Mare of the Night

On Facebook

TriGoodwyn Productions

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network