This week, we’re chatting with Millan, the writer and director of Nothing But Blue, a powerful short film.

Millan takes us behind the scenes of his emotionally gripping story about two Jewish people hiding during the Holocaust, told in a beautifully subtle way that focuses on humanity and hope amidst despair.

We dive into everything - from the unique filming location above a pub, to the deep research Milan did to honour the story authentically, including drawing inspiration from Anne Frank’s diary.

Millan also opens up about the challenges and emotions on set, the process of pitching and funding this film, and how he learned to trust himself as a filmmaker along the way.

If you love thoughtful, heartfelt cinema and stories that remind us why humanity matters, this episode is for you.

Here are the highlights:

Overview of "Nothing But Blue" (2:03)

Research and Preparation Process (3:58)

Challenges and Lessons Learned (7:21)

Festival Experience and Pitching to Producers (16:17)

Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers (22:32)

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

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www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

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Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, we’re joined by composer and filmmaker John Parr for a heartfelt conversation about storytelling, music, and representation in film.

John shares the inspiration behind his latest project Pack of Five, which brings the story of Welsh poet Hedd Wyn to life through powerful visuals and a moving choral soundtrack.

We talk about the emotional depth of Welsh music, the magic of sincerity on screen, and how creative choices leave lasting impressions.

John also opens up about his experience as a disabled filmmaker, the importance of authentic representation, and his take on emerging tools like AI in storytelling.

From childhood plays to award-winning shorts, this is a rich, reflective chat on what it really means to tell the truth through art.

Here are the highlights:

Inspiration and Challenges in Film and Music (2:37)

A Pack of Five (6:19)

Premiere and Cultural Significance of "A Pack of Five" (11:53)

John's Experience as a Disabled Filmmaker (13:42)

Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers and Musicians (21:45)

Judging at the Kamata Festival (26:18)

More about John:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

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www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

LinkedIn:

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Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn

In this episode, we're diving into the magical - and often chaotic - world of book-to-screen adaptations.

From the faithful beauty of The Lord of the Rings to the… loosely inspired World War Z, we’re breaking down what makes an adaptation shine or flop.

We also touch on video game adaptations like The Last of Us, Super Mario Bros, and Arcane, and discuss how some shows and films have outshined their original source material entirely.

Here are the highlights:

Faithful vs. Interpretative Adaptations (2:11)

Video Game Adaptations (10:17)

Super Mario Bros. Film: A Mixed Reception (13:59)

Films More Popular Than the Books (24:23)

Disney's Live-Action Adaptations (34:23)

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

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www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

LinkedIn:

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Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn

Let’s talk about diversity in casting - beyond the tick boxes and token roles. In this episode, we get into what real representation actually looks like in film and TV, why it matters for storytelling, and how authenticity changes everything.

From Bridgerton to Hamilton to the backlash around Percy Jackson, we’re sharing our honest takes, casting wins, and the industry gaps that still need addressing.

If you care about inclusive stories that reflect the full human experience, this chat’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Defining Diversity in Casting (1:33)

Importance of Diversity in Storytelling (5:29)

Challenges and Misconceptions in Diversity Casting (5:45)

Accessibility and Inclusivity in Casting (7:09)

Examples of Successful Diversity Casting (8:34)

Challenges in Diverse Casting for Children (14:34)

Public Perception and Acceptance of Diverse Casting (23:00)

Barriers and Opportunities in Diversity Hiring (24:49)

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

www.instagram.com/gunpowderhouse

www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

LinkedIn:

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Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn

In this week’s episode, Amber and I continue our no-fluff chat about casting - what’s working, what still needs work, and the invisible stuff no one tells you about until you're in it.

We’re talking about the emotional toll of rejection, the rise of intimacy coordinators post-Me Too, and why casting is more like matchmaking than box-ticking.

We also get real about boundaries, the power of unions, and how small moments of clarity (or miscommunication) can make or break the experience for everyone involved.

Whether you're a director, actor, or just someone who’s curious about what really happens before a film starts rolling, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the casting room - messy bits and all.

Here are the highlights:

Safety and Communication in Casting (10:52)

Supporting Artists and Their Role (13:27)

Personal Experiences with Casting (18:50)

Diversity in Casting and Final Thoughts (23:31)

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

www.instagram.com/gunpowderhouse

www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

LinkedIn:

Gunpowder House LinkedIn

Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn

In this episode, we are pulling back the curtain on the casting process - warts, wonders, awkward self-tapes, and all.

From open casting calls that start at 4am to the power of a well-timed chemistry read, we’re sharing what we’ve learned from sitting on both sides of the table: actor and director.

We talk about why the energy you bring to a self-tape really matters, what makes a performance stand out, and why casting isn’t just about the “right look” - it’s about collaboration, interpretation, and connection.

If you’ve ever felt the sting of rejection or wondered what casting directors actually think, this one’s packed with insight, honesty, and a few horror stories you’ll definitely remember.

Here are the highlights:

Amber's YouTube Show (1:10)

Experience with Casting (2:32)

The Importance of Casting (4:03)

Casting Process and Techniques (9:41)

Self-Tapes and Audition Tips (14:19)

In-Room Auditions and Chemistry Reads (20:06)

Merely Roll players

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

www.instagram.com/gunpowderhouse

www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

LinkedIn:

Gunpowder House LinkedIn

Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn

In this nostalgic-meets-nerdy episode, we go all in on one of our favourite filmmaking obsessions: practical effects.

From the animatronic shark in Jaws to painted backdrops, set illusions, and that iconic roller-skating moment from Chaplin - we explore how filmmakers have been bending reality long before VFX took over.

We also share stories from our own sets, from space ships made of staples to sets running on three timelines at once (organised chaos, anyone?).

Whether you're a film student, an indie creator, or just love a good behind-the-scenes peek, this episode is packed with tips, memories, and a lot of appreciation for the original movie magic.

Here are the highlights:

Defining Practical Effects (1:08)

George Méliès and His Contributions (14:21)

Practical Effects in Modern Cinema (14:43)

Challenges and Safety in Practical Effects (17:56)

Examples of Practical Effects in Horror and Action Films (19:00)

The Role of Pre-Visualisation and Preparation (42:06)

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

www.instagram.com/gunpowderhouse

www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

LinkedIn:

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Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn

Ever wondered how actors make stage fights look so real without actually getting hurt? In this episode, we chat with fight and intimacy director Robin Hellier, who pulls back the curtain on what really goes into choreographing physical storytelling.

Robin breaks down how character, story, safety, and collaboration all come together in fight scenes - and why planning ahead is key.

We talk about the joy (and chaos) of spinning stages, how camera angles can lie beautifully, and why every fight tells a story beyond the action.

If you love film, theatre, or just geeking out about craft, this one’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Robin Hellier's Background and Current Projects (4:29)

Unique Challenges in Stage and Screen Combat (6:17)

Character and Fight Choreography (11:29)

Procedures and Preparation for Fight Choreography (16:46)

Weapon Systems and Performer Training (18:37)

Communication and Choreography Challenges (26:20)

Advice for Performers (34:24)

Connect with Robin:

Robin Hellier Website: https://robinhellier.com/

BADC: https://www.badc.org.uk/

BASSC: https://www.bassc.org/

Connect with us here:

Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/cinematicalchemypodcast

www.instagram.com/gunpowderhouse

www.instagram.com/srishq

www.instagram.com/amberlillianpayne

LinkedIn:

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Srishti LinkedIn

Amber LinkedIn