EP362 | Why Filmmakers Should Study Classic Comedies

·1 hr 4 min·5 clips

Mike Pecci's new film 'Metanoia' has no script and was discovered like a jazz piece during production.

Mike Pecci opens the episode with sponsor shoutouts to Fujifilm, Puget Systems, and Blackmagic, noting he used their gear for his latest project. He announces the completion of his new short film 'Metanoia', starring David Dastmalchian, which has been submitted to film festivals. Pecci describes the film as experimental with no script or dialogue, comparing its creation to a jazz improvisation where actors and crew discovered the story. He details the production, including custom-built sets designed by his partner Gina and cinematography by David Cruda using a Blackmagic 6K full-frame camera. Pecci explains the film was shot with a mix of lenses from Freestyle Cinema Rentals, including Iron Glass vintage Soviet primes and Canon tilt-shift lenses. He transitions to discussing how he books guests, revealing that publicists often send pre-written questions, leading to repetitive interviews across podcasts. Pecci reads an example pitch email for a documentary filmmaker and critiques the practice. He then returns to sponsors, highlighting how Blackmagic and Puget Systems supported his film technically and financially. Pecci shares frustrations with Spotify and YouTube's automated copyright systems that flag his podcast's licensed music. He predicts AI will replace human musicians and filmmakers, citing Lionsgate selling properties as an example. Pecci mentions working on a new feature film script with minimal dialogue to avoid exposition. He and his partner Gina have been watching classic comedies alphabetically to avoid algorithmic recommendations. They watched 'Groundhog Day', which Pecci analyzes as a timeless structure copied by shows like 'Russian Doll'. He praises Harold Ramis's direction and Bill Murray's performance as a charming asshole. Pecci then discusses 'Tommy Boy', noting Chris Farley's dramatic acting chops and the film's emotional depth despite being a Saturday Night Live comedy. He recommends David Spade's audiobooks for behind-the-scenes stories. The episode ends with Pecci encouraging listeners to watch these classic films.

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