Hollywood Rebooted Podcast with Billy Barnes

How does one go from shooting iconic music videos for Eminem and the Backstreet Boys to lenseing major Hollywood feature films? In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted, we sit down with powerhouse Director of Photography Brandon Cox (DP for RZA’s highly anticipated film, One Spoon of Chocolate). Brandon takes us on a deep dive into his incredible career trajectory, sharing the raw, unfiltered truth...

Can AI truly capture the soul of a Hollywood film score? In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted, we sit down with Emmy Award-winning composer Brandon Roberts to dismantle the current state of film music and look closely at the future of the industry. From the massive orchestral depths of a galaxy far, far away to blood-curdling horror soundtracks, Brandon’s versatile musical footprint is everywhere...

Is artificial intelligence about to replace the traditional Hollywood movie set entirely? In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted, we are joined by visionary Production Designer Vincent Reynaud—the creative force behind the world-building of the highly anticipated disaster sequel Greenland 2: Migration and iconic films like SEVEN. As the film industry shifts dramatically toward LED volume stages, "g...

In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted, we sit down with the visionary editor behind some of the most visually stunning projects in modern television: Aaron I. Butler, ACE. We dive deep into the science of storytelling, exploring how pacing and rhythm are used as tools to emotionally hook an audience and keep them on the edge of their seat. Aaron pulls back the curtain on his creative shorthand wit...

In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we sit down with one of 2026’s most exciting breakout talents, Zander Torres. From the grind of the LA indie scene to sharing the screen with industry titans, Zander opens up about the reality of being a working actor in today's rapidly shifting cinematic landscape. Zander dives deep into his experience working alongside Timothée Chalamet, sharing the...

Can a YouTube show really win an Emmy? 🏆 In this episode of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we sit down with Emmy-award winning writer and showrunner Sean Presant. Sean takes us behind the curtain of his incredible career, from the moment he realized he won his first Emmy for a digital-first show to the deeply personal experiences that shaped his journey. Sean opens up about working with the lege...

Welcome to a masterclass in post-production. In this full episode of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we are joined by Emmy Award-winning editor Charles Little II, ACE . Charles is the visionary behind the edit for some of the most impactful stories on television today. We go behind the scenes of his work on the global phenomenon "Welcome to Wrexham" (FX), the high-octane drama of "9-1-1: Lone Star...

From tinkering in his garage to working in a galaxy far, far away—this is the ultimate "dream job" success story. The man behind the gold mask (and 19 other characters!) joins us on Hollywood Rebooted Podcast. Ever wondered how someone actually becomes a Star Wars droid? Today, we’re sitting down with Chris Bartlett, the incredible performer and artist who has brought C-3PO and nearly 20 other ico...

In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we are joined by industry veteran Megan E. Chao . Megan is an award-winning producer, director, and editor, currently serving as the Secretary of the Television Academy and a member of their AI Task Force. With nearly two decades of experience, she has successfully navigated the path from initial concept to major network delivery. We dive deep into th...

What does it take to survive and thrive in Hollywood for over two decades? 🎭 In this episode of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we are joined by the incredibly versatile Jason Konopisos-Alvarez. From his early days in cult classics to voicing iconic villains in major franchises, Jason has navigated the highs, the lows, and the complete transformations of the film industry. Jason shares his unique...

Is the "Old Hollywood" officially gone? 🎬 In this episode of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Yvette Nipar. With a career spanning decades—from her iconic roles in RoboCop: The Series and 21 Jump Street to her extensive work in film and television—Yvette has seen the industry transform from the inside out. Today, she’s pulling back the curtain on what it’s actually...

In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we sit down with the powerhouse that is Brian Michael Smith (9-1-1: Lone Star). Brian’s path to becoming a series regular wasn't an overnight success, it was a masterclass in persistence, craft, and authenticity. We trace his steps from his roots in Michigan to the high-stakes acting scene in New York City, and finally, his move to Los Angeles. 📌 In...

Is the "Director’s Dream" still alive in 2026? 🎬 In Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, award-winning filmmaker Billy Barnes sits down with Michael Delano, producer, director, and the visionary founder of Cotu Media. Transitioning from shorts to a feature film is the hardest leap a filmmaker can make. Michael breaks down the practical roadmap for directing your first feature, how to maintain creative mom...

Welcome to the series premiere of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast! In our first-ever episode, award winning Director / Host Billy Barnes is joined by industry legend Eddie Perez . With over 30 years of experience, Eddie is a 3-time Emmy Award winner, a SAG Award winner , and currently serves as the Governor for the Stunts Peer Group at the Television Academy. From his iconic 9-season run as the Stu...