This time around, we talk with Cooper Raiff, the creator, director and star of the limited series ‘Hal & Harper,’ about navigating the indie scene on the TV side.

Cooper breaks down one of the show’s central conceits: he and Lili Reinhart playing their characters as kids in certain scenes. We explore what it took to get into that childhood headspace and how those scenes shape the series.

We also dig into what it’s like juggling multiple roles on a project, from directing and acting to editing, and how that creative control shapes his storytelling approach.

(Photo credit: MUBI)

Filmmaker M.G. Evangelista joins us to discuss their horror short 'Anino,’ premiering at this year's NewFest. Our conversation explores the integral role of language in shaping their film's narrative and the ongoing search for identity that drives their work. M.G. opens up about their venture into genre filmmaking with this monster story, revealing how horror became a vehicle for exploring deeper personal themes.

We also delve into the extensive development journey of their debut feature 'Burning Well,' which has been in progress for over five years. M.G. shares insights into the challenges and evolution of bringing this project to life, demonstrating the patience and persistence required in independent filmmaking.

Cinematographer Mattias Nyberg joins us to discuss his work on episodes 1-3 of 'The Girlfriend,' directed by Robin Wright. Mattias reveals what drew him to the project - the opportunity to collaborate with Wright, whose directorial vision he'd long admired - and how they developed a visual language that serves the story's emotional core.

Our conversation explores Mattias's tailored approach to capturing the dual perspectives of Laura and Cherry, deliberately avoiding neutral shots to position viewers within each character's distinct emotional landscape. He discusses the technical challenges of shooting in constrictive yet stunning locations, from London's Sanderson house to a Spanish villa, where spatial limitations sparked creative innovation in camera movement and staging.

Mattias delves into specific visual choices, particularly the hospital sequences where he introduced warm colors into typically sterile environments to enhance emotional complexity. His reflections on using extended shot lengths to build tension and deepen feeling demonstrate the delicate balance between technical precision and emotional storytelling.