Category: Film

The Joy Of The Unknown While Filmmaking With Commercial Director Scotty Bergstein.

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Commercial Director Scotty Bergstein started out as Ridley Scott’s assistant on the movie “Thelma and Louise”. Talk about a film school like no other. Now he’s a seasoned, sought-after spot helmer. We chat about his process from first getting a storyboard through delivering that edit.

We share the joy of allowing the process to reveal things on set that would not have happened if you didn’t plan properly. Like finding the magic moments between the dialogue. Filmmakers, I know you’ll find this episode inspiring. So check out spots of Scotty’s by clicking his name, or visting Cultivate.media.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Jordan

Jordan

SOLD OUT! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is 100% sold out for Los Angeles, December 3, 2016.

This episode is an hour and 15 minutes, give or take.

Filmmakers Kristyna Archer & Monty Marsh Take Superlounge Diversity Award.

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Filmmakers Kristyna Archer and Monty Marsh are dual recipients of the inaugural Superlounge Diversity Award. Each will attend Commercial Directing Bootcamp for free December 3rd, 2016 in Los Angeles. Both Monty and Kristyna display a keen proficiency in short form visual storytelling that I know can be channeled to make great ads. Bravo!!

Huge thanks to all the filmmakers that submitted great work.

Thank you,

Jordan

Kicking Through The Ashes with Comedian/Writer/Producer Ritch Shydner.

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Legendary comedian Ritch Shydner is known to my fans as the true heart and soul of “I Am Comic” (Available on iTunes). To three generations of stand-up comics, he remains a powerhouse of pure monology. Ritch and I met in the 1980’s during the comedy boom when I opened for him. Neither of us remember the details or the city.

We talk stand-up comedy, the road, doing a documentary together, today’s podcast circuit, working with comedians, and his book. “Kicking Through The Ashes” is a great read, especially for the comedy aficionado with ADHD. I love it and you need to buy it here.

Please share. Thanks,

Jordan

Commercial Directing Bootcamp is only for those that want to be great. December 3rd, 2016 in Los Angeles. Limit 20 filmmakers. Sign up now!

Jordan

True! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is almost full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up people or suffer the rest of your career.

This episode is an hour.

What Filmmakers Should Not Attend Commercial Directing Bootcamp.

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My wildly successful Commercial Directing Bootcamp returns to Los Angeles next month, and not every filmmaker may be qualified. This is just me babbling for three minutes telling you why you should or should not enroll. If you think you have what it takes, do not wait and do sign up today, because we are almost full. Limit 20 filmmakers.

My spots starring Fiat’s Hipster Santa, flanked by his adorable elves, Jeep’s spot with the guy camping out, and those perky PacifiKids all aired during the World Series game 7, so I was delighted. I’ll post when they hit the web. Do I dissesct those shoot in Bootcamp? Did the Cubs win? Until then, here’s one of my many Jim Gaffigan spots from this summer that still gets played.

Thanks, and go ahead and please share with a mate that might benefit.

Jordan

True! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up people or suffer the rest of your career.

This episode is an hour.

Respect The Hustle With Producer Director Abraham Roofeh.

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Abraham Roofeh is a director and producer with his own shop, Crowned Kings. Abe is constantly pumping out great content: spots, branded content and music videos, you name it. We chat about how he gets his work, what it means to find one’s voice as a storyteller and how filmmakers need to have a bit of entrepreneurial zeal these days.

Actors – check out the Dan Velez Fund, a scholarship for actors established by our friends at www.spacestationla.com to honor of this wonderful casting director that passed too soon. Go to www.DanVelexFund.org for more info.

Enjoy.

Jordan

Email me at jordan@commercialdirectingbootcamp.com if you think you qualify for the Superlounge Diversity Award to attend December 3rd Bootcamp on Superlounge. Or just sign up.

Enjoy,

Jordan

True! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up people or suffer the rest of your career.

This episode is an hour.

TV Ads And Tapas With VML Group Creative Director Pat Piper.

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VML Group Creative Director Pat Piper is funny, prolific and one heck of a guy. He’s an award-winning creative that likes to stay busy. In addition to cranking out great ads, he has his own podcast called The Shakes on iTunes. Pat and I have fun talking about what it is like having comedic actors who try to one up each other during a comedy commercial shoot. We also mention how he made some of his classic Sonic commercials, which he originated with his former partner, Matt McKay. Of course, he explains what respecting the process means to him. Please give it a listen and I hope you enjoy it.

Email me at jordan@commercialdirectingbootcamp.com if you think you qualify for the Superlounge Diversity Award to attend December 3rd Bootcamp on Superlounge. Or just sign up.

Enjoy,

Jordan

True! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is an hour and some minutes.

What A Commercial Director’s Sales Rep Does With Doug Sherin.

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Doug Sherin reps commercial directors as well as production companies. He sells talent based on their reel. He’s like our agent, but oh he is so much more than an agent, he’s a partner in the process of developing a director’s career. Check out his stellar roster at his company, Options.

We chat about how communication is key, his joy in finding work for his clients, and donuts. It’s a real treat to finally have my friend on the show.

Enjoy,

Jordan

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is an hour and some minutes.

From MTV “Road Rules” To “The Hills” And Beyond, My Chat With Exec Producer Andrew Perry.

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Executive Producer Andrew Perry began his career at MTV Networks, where I’d see him every other day in the hallway. He explains what an Executive Producer does and how he rose to the occasion when presented with a new responsibility, turning each into a career opportunity. Andrew also talks about his new book, a companion to the hit show, “The Hills.” Oh, and the alternate title to this chat might have been called, “Don’t be a dick.” You’ll learn why.

I enjoyed reuniting with Andrew and having him on the podcast and I think you will like what you hear.

Thank you,

Jordan.

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is 12 minutes.

My Chat With Presidential Candidate Jimmy Tingle.

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Political satirist and comedian Jimmy Tingle is running for President of the United States of America on the Humor For Humanity ticket. Jimmy has been a staple on the stand up circuit for decades, prolific as he is hilarious. He’s produced his own film, and once owned his own theater. A treat to have Jimmy on the show.

Here’s Jimmy’s take on building a wall to protect our great nation.

Enjoy.

Jordan

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is 12 minutes.

My Apology To Stuntman Eddie Braun, Evel Knievel and All Big Dreamers.

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Daredevil Evel Knievel was a huge childhood hero of mine, so it was amazing and super cool that stuntman Eddie Braun successfully replicated and completed Evel’s jump attempt over the Snake River Canyon in September 2016. Bravo Eddie!

But in an uncharacteristic tweet, I disrespected Eddie’s passion and success, and publicly want to set the record straight. It’s cool as fuck and I was wrong to comment anything but respect, positivity and kudos. Looking inward, when I take a shot at someone else’s accomplishments or pursuits, it really must be an expression of frustration with something I have yet to achieve. Lesson learned. Respect the big dreams of others. I am truly sorry Eddie. Please join me on the show.

Here is Eddie’s jump and get this, I just discovered my Ford Super Duty Truck spot is one of the pre-roll spots that before it plays. Kismet?

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is 12 minutes.

How To Be A Successful Sound Mixer/Editor In Commercials With Maurice Sydnor.

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Sound Mixer Maurice Sydnor has been my friend and collaborator for over a decade. We’ve made tons of spots, and he helped me get great sound on my documentary “I Am Comic” when I had no budget at all.

Starting out as a rock musician, you’ll love hearing how Maurice continues his self-taught education, always learning and adapting as the industry changes. Listen as two old chums chat about the process. Check out the sound design in his GMC spot. Click here.

Enjoy!

Jordan

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp returns to Los Angeles, December 3, 2016 so sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20. Don’t miss it cuz then you’ll kick yourself.

This episode is over an hour and 21 minutes.

First Time Director Brendan Mertens Ain’t Afraid Of No “Ghostsheads”.

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“Ghostheads” Director Brendan Mertens reveals all about his new film, “Ghostheads”, yes still killing it on Netflix. This is part two of “Ghostheads”, Part I being with Tommy Avalon.

Ghostheads are not just uber-fans of the film. They form chapters and raise money for charity, while giving each Ghosthead a sense of community. I recommend the film highly, which has interviews with key cast and crew, including Dan Aykroyd, Ivan Reitman, Ernie Hudson, Paul Feig and many more, as well as with Ghostbusters fans all over the world. Enjoy the trailer:

Thank you,

Jordan

PS Way too early to announce, but I’ll tell you that Commercial Directing Bootcamp is December 3rd, 2016 in Los Angeles.

This episode is one hour minutes.

Who You Gonna Call? Ghostheads! Filmmaker Tommy Avallone Returns.

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Filmmaker Tommy Avallone returns to talk about his new film, “Ghostheads”, currently killing it on Netflix. We chat about how he reached out to the director of this fun documentary, Brendan Mertens (my future podcast guest) and his overall involvement. A real inspiring tale for us filmmakers.

Ghostheads are not just uber-fans of the film. They form chapters and raise money for charity, while giving each Ghosthead a sense of community. I recommend the film highly, which has interviews with key cast and crew, including Dan Aykroyd, Ivan Reitman, Ernie Hudson, Paul Feig and many more, as well as with Ghostbusters fans all over the world. Enjoy the trailer:

Thank you,

Jordan

PS Way too early to announce, but I’ll tell you that Commercial Directing Bootcamp is December 3rd, 2016 in Los Angeles.

This episode is one hour and four minutes.

Docu “Outcast Forever” Rides Along w First All-Black Motorcycle Club & Filmmaker DeVaughn Hughson.

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Filmmaker and friend DeVaughn Hughson spend six years documenting Outcast, the first all-Black Motorcycle Club, literally living among these true rebels day and night. The result is an artistic peek into their raucous den and time-honored rituals. It’s a must-watch doc and the closest you’ll ever get to this unique world.

I find DeVaughn’s film a riveting study of alpha male culture, where individuality flourishes, yet everyone still supports the tribe at large. “Outcast Forever” is more than just the name of the film, it’s a lifelong bond for these proud men.

We chat filmmaking, the artistic choices, and how DeVaughn earned the Members’ trust. Support indie film and spread the word. Click DeVaughn’s name. Enjoy the trailer.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour and 11 minutes.

How To Have A Successful Career As A Commercial Editor With Shira Ankori.

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My friend Editor Shira Ankori has edited some of the best comedy spots on my reel for over ten years now. We discuss working with the advertising agency creatives and why directors need to actually cut.

Timing and collaboration are themes we agree on, so have a listen and share with a filmmaker you love.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is one hour.

Bowling Rom Com “Split” By Writer/Director Jamie Buckner.

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Writer/Director Jamie Buckner has made an adorable, funny romantic comedy called “Split”. Jamie tells us about making the short film first to raise the dough and the complications of shooting in a working bowling alley. He smartly went to his hometown to make the film.

Please support the film by clicking here, and watch and enjoy “Split”. My favorite aspect is Jamie spoofs all the tropes of the romantic comedy while using them effectively to tell the sweet story.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour and 03 minutes.

Gary Rose Of Go Film Dissects The Commercial Filmmaking Industry With Me.

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Gary Rose is the Managing Director of Go Film, one of the top shops for making commercials. We look at the current state of our business and how the game has evolved. I rarely call it “the game” but hey. Gary has worked alongside one of my favorite filmmakers, Christopher Guest, so I get to learn how Mr. Guest likes to work on the spots he chooses to do. Overall, Gary navigates the business with finesse and surely knows how to pick and develop directorial talent.

We touch on his love of underwater photography. I wish you could see his work on the walls of Go Film. Click here for a taste. Oh, that’s a Billy Idol screenshot from a Go FIlm spot, not Gary.

Commercial Directing Bootcamp Chicago was a blast! Huge thank you to the filmmakers. Now send me podcast feedback people. How are we doing? Questions?

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour and 20 minutes.

My Successful Director/Producer Relationship With Rick Cowan, RIP.

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Filmmaker Rick Cowan was my dear friend and frequent collaborator. He grew to be a mentor and pillar to all who knew him. He passed away this week, and I miss him. RIP Rick.

This conversation is from July 2015 and was posted back then.

Love,

Jordan

This episode is an hour, give or take.

Acclaimed Film Producer Miranda Bailey On Producing “Don’t Think Twice”.

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Miranda Bailey is a prolific film producer, actress and director. Currently, she’s got two wonderful films in theaters, “Swiss Army Man” and “Don’t Think Twice”, the latter opening wide this weekend. Go see it. It stars Keegan Michael Key, Gillian Jacobs, Tami Sagher, Chris Gethard, Kate Micucci and the film’s writer/director Mike Birbiglia. It’s funny, sad, heartfelt and the best look at the world of improvisational comedy ever.

Miranda has her own production company, Cold Iron Pictures, and started a distribution company, The Film Arcade. Click the words. She’s the real deal.

The last half of our chat reveals that I am indeed an old fashioned sexist. Eye opening, as we delve into the topic of gender inequality. Truthfully, I wanted to leave that alone and just talk to Miranda as a producer, but felt it was needed so we explore and shed a little light. Enjoy the trailer, then buy tickets:

Enjoy. Share. See the film. Thank you!!

Chicago’s Commercial Directing Bootcamp will sell out. Sign up now and I’ll see you in Chicago August 13th, 2016.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour, give or take.

My Chat With “Jimmy Vestvood: Amerikan Hero” Comedy Director Jonathan Kesselman.

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Sitting down with Director Jonathan Kesselman was like reuniting with a cousin I’d never met. I’d seen his first film, The Hebrew Hammer, now we talk about his new film “Jimmy Vestvood: Amerikan Hero” starring comedian Maz Jobrani. Maz is hysterical in the clubs, on his specials, so I knew the film would be laugh out loud too.

We chat about developing the film, working with actors who wrote the script they star in, and oh, so much more. Enjoy the trailer, then see the movie.

Chicago’s Commercial Directing Bootcamp will sell out. Sign up now and I’ll see you in Chicago August 13th, 2016.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is over an hour and 15 minutes, give or take.