In this episode of Below the Line, host Ryan Burke sits down with director Justin Monroe, the creative force behind the award-winning documentary Holy Frit. What begins as a chat about the biggest stained glass window in the world evolves into a deep-dive on documentary filmmaking — the chaos, the choices, and the unshakable belief that the story is worth telling.Monroe shares how a neighborly encounter turned into a 7-year filmmaking journey full of false starts, complex characters, creative instincts, and ingenious indie financing. From balancing real-time story development with long-haul editing, to managing goodwill, equity, and human capital, this conversation is a masterclass in how a filmmaker survives and thrives in the independent documentary world.Whether you're a filmmaker, film lover, or just curious how one man turned a "nobody-will-watch-this" subject into a critically acclaimed documentary — this episode is for you.✨ Holy Frit premiered at Slamdance 2021, won 10 festival awards during it's festival run, had a limited theatrical release and qualified for Oscar consideration — and now you’ll hear the story behind the camera.👇 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your favorite documentary or moment from this episode.

On this episode of Below the Line, host Taylor Mackenzie sits down with multi-hyphenate filmmaker Tom Malloy! With over two decades in the industry, Malloy has worn many hats—actor, writer, producer, director—and has raised millions for independent films while producing over 20 movies. Tom’s journey is a masterclass in indie filmmaking, film finance, and creative persistence.

In this episode, we dive into:🔥 How Tom built his career in acting, writing, and producing💰 His expertise in independent film financing🎥 The challenges and triumphs of bringing films to life📖 His book Bankroll, which became the gold standard in film finance.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a cinephile, or just love behind-the-scenes stories, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and industry secrets. Don’t miss it! 🎬✨

In this episode of "Below the Line" we’re joined film director John Lechago, the current Vice President of Creative Development at Platinum Studios Inc., as he delves into the world of filmmaking. Lechago, known for directing several films for Full Moon Features, including Killjoy 3 and Killjoy Goes to Hell. He brings a unique perspective shaped by his extensive experience as a filmmaker and visual effects artist. In this Episode, we explore Lechago's career in the film industry, from his early beginnings to his notable successes and learning moments. He shares invaluable advice for aspiring filmmakers and offers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of his journey.

Whether you're a horror enthusiast, a cinema lover, or someone dreaming of directing your own films, this episode of "Below the Line” is a must-listen. Gain insights, inspiration, and practical tips from a seasoned filmmaker who has navigated the highs and lows of the industry.

Documentarian Justin Monroe joins us again, his film, Holy Frit, follows the creation of the largest stainless window in the world. Currently it’s rated 100% on rotten tomatoes and opens today for streaming on VOD platforms. Joining him is the subject of his movie fused glass artist Tim Carey. They sit down with host Tess Sullivan and have a conversation about inspiration, creativity, and the making Holy Frit.

There are so many amazingly talented filmmakers that have worked on some of your favorite movies, and you don't know who they are. Cinematographer and Director David R Hardberger has had an amazing career working on major films. Join today’s host Ryan Burke as the two of them talk about his work in the industry on Star Trek the Motion Picture, Star Trek Wrath of Khan, Return of the Jedi, Willow, Close Encounters of the 3rd Kind, Lord of the Rings and so many others. Ryan Burke - Host https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3827685/?... David R. Hardberger - Subject https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0362046/?... Instagram @davidhardberger Sean Williams - Director/ Editor Produced by Annie Valenti Wait For Me Media www.waitformemedia.com Instagram @waitformemedia TikTok @wait.for.me.media

Self-taught special effects makeup artist and director, Todd Tucker has been on a lot of incredible and iconic sets. Join today’s host Tess Rianne Sullivan learns how he got his start and the rest of his career as they talk about practical effects, horror, directing, and how movies have changed since the eighties.

Below the Line took LA Comic Con by storm on December 4th, 2022. Join director John Lechago, SFX makeup artist Lee Joyner, makeup artist and director Todd Tucker, Emmy award-winning animation director, comic book and storyboard artist Chuck Patton, and moderator Ryan Burke as they chat about their experiences being a concept to life.

*Note: The audio of this panel was recorded LIVE at the Los Angeles Convention Center during LA Comic Con. Please excuse our background noise.

When documentarian Justin Monroe moved to LA from Oklahoma, he had no idea the direction his life would take. An incredibly impassioned filmmaker and movie lover, this interview with Justin is a part inspirational call to art and part the joy of experiencing cinema. Join today’s host Tess Rianne Sullivan as the two of them talk about why he feels what he does is so important and highlight some of the films he found most influential.