Top Filmmaking Articles of the Week - April 13, 2025
To be a filmmaker, you have to lead. You have to be psychotic in your desire to do something. People always like the easy route. You have to push very hard to get something unusual, something different.
-Danny Boyle
Top Filmmaking Articles of the Week - April 13, 2025
Here are some filmmaking articles that we found interesting the past week. We hope you enjoy!
IndieWire – Bill Desowitz
Warfare is a 2025 war film co-directed by Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza and Alex Garland, based on a real 2006 SEAL mission in Iraq. Made to help injured SEAL Elliott Miller recall the mission, the film uses realistic sets, practical effects, and chronological shooting to recreate events authentically. It premiered in March and was released by A24 in April 2025 to positive reviews.
IndieWire – Amber Dowling
North of North is a Canadian comedy series that premiered on CBC and APTN in January 2025 and globally on Netflix on April 10, 2025. Created by Inuit filmmakers Stacey Aglok MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, the show centers on Siaja, a young Inuk mother in the fictional Arctic town of Ice Cove, Nunavut. After leaving her husband, Siaja embarks on a journey of self-discovery, navigating the challenges of single motherhood, community dynamics, and personal growth.
Filmed on location in Nunavut, the series features a predominantly Indigenous cast and crew, emphasizing cultural authenticity. Traditional Inuit clothing and customs are prominently showcased, with costumes designed by Debra Hanson in collaboration with Inuk artist Keenan ‘Nooks’ Lindell. The show’s narrative blends humor with heartfelt storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on life in Arctic communities. Critics have praised North of North for its genuine portrayal of Inuit life and its engaging, character-driven plot.
No Film School – Jason Hellerman
In a recent No Film School article, Morgan Freeman shares his perspective on what distinguishes a good director from a bad one. He emphasizes that effective directing begins with casting the right actors who inherently understand their roles.Freeman believes that once the appropriate cast is in place, directors should trust their actors’ instincts rather than micromanaging their performances. He highlights Clint Eastwood as an example of a director who provides actors with the space to deliver authentic performances, often requiring fewer takes. Freeman also references advice from Mike Nichols, who stated, “A good director is a good casting agent,” underscoring the importance of casting in the filmmaking process. Ultimately, Freeman advocates for directors to guide the overall movement and flow of scenes while allowing actors the freedom to bring their characters to life.
More Filmmaking Articles
No Film School – Jason Hellerman
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the introduction of a new Oscar category: Achievement in Stunt Design. This marks a significant milestone in recognizing the vital contributions of stunt performers and coordinators to filmmaking. The inaugural award will be presented at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028, honoring films released in 2027.
If you’ve found anything interesting this week let us know and we can spread the word next time!