The Shot Callers Podcast

In this episode of The Shot Callers Podcast, Kalvo and Yabui break down the creative and strategic differences between short films and feature films. From narrative structure and production scope to career impact and festival strategy, we explore when to make a short, when to expand into a feature, and how successful short films were adapted into features.  Whether you’re just starting out or plan...

In this episode of The Shot Callers Podcast, Kalvo and Yabui speak with special guest Maverick Durant and dive deep into the money side of moviemaking, including how to plan a film budget. Whether you’re prepping for your first short or producing your next indie feature, we break down where the money goes, the importance of donating, and how to treat your crew right. We also explain each SAG tier...

🔍 How do filmmakers take an idea from script to screen? Kalvo and Yabui break down their shot-planning process, from storyboarding to on-set adjustments. They’ll also discuss the balance between planning and improvisation. Plus, get a sneak peek of their interview with Amir Renzzo, a professional dancer and choreographer, as he talks about the intersection of movement and camera work! 

🎞️ Theaters or streaming—where should filmmakers aim? Kalvo and Yabui dive into the battle between cinema and streaming services, discussing how the film industry is shifting, what it means for filmmakers, and whether theatrical releases are still the ultimate goal. Are we witnessing the end of the traditional moviegoing experience, or is it evolving into something new? 

💡🎬 Making it in the film industry takes more than just talent—it’s about strategy. In this episode, Kalvo and Yabui sit down with Jeff Benjamin (writer, producer, creative director) t o talk about the real journey to **getting a film to the big screen. From crafting compelling stories to navigating the business side of filmmaking, Jeff shares insider advice for aspiring filmmakers. 

In this episode, Kalvo and Yabui dive into how artificial intelligence is changing the game for filmmakers — creatively and behind the scenes. From screenwriting and storyboarding to marketing and distribution, we explore both the creative and business uses of AI in today’s industry. We break down real-world examples, talk through the pros and cons, and share what these shifts could mean for the f...

🎥 What makes a great shot? In this debut episode, Kalvo and Yabui break down the fundamentals of cinematography, from composition to lighting, and how framing impacts storytelling.. Whether you're a filmmaker, cinematography nerd, or just love movies, this episode sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of visual storytelling.  

Award season is here, and we’re breaking it all down! In this episode of The Shot Callers Podcast , we dive into the Oscars—what worked, what flopped, and what surprised us. But that’s not all—we’re also tackling the age-old debate: script vs. screenplay (yes, there’s a difference!), sharing on-set nightmares like booms in the shot , and geeking out over Nanlites and how lighting can make or break...