Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth Episode #70 - "How To Make A Movie"
Release Date: November 11, 2024
Host/Author: Smosh (Shayne Topp, Amanda Lehan-Canto)
Guest: Olivia
Introduction to Olivia and Her Short Film Project
In Episode #70 of Smosh Mouth, hosts Shayne Topp and Amanda Lehan-Canto welcome their special guest, Olivia, to discuss her ambitious journey in filmmaking. Olivia opens up about her passion project—a short film titled "Way Baba"—detailing the intricate process of bringing her vision to life.
Concept and Inspiration Behind "Way Baba"
"Way Baba," translating to "Hi Dad" in Mandarin, explores the strained yet affectionate relationship between Olivia and her father. The film is a semi-autobiographical portrayal of the first meeting between Olivia's father and her boyfriend, Sam, set against the backdrop of a traditional Chinese restaurant.
Notable Quote:
Olivia (08:34): “The short is called Way Baba, which translates to hi dad. Way is how you say hi to someone on the phone in Mandarin... It’s about the first time my dad met Sam, my boyfriend Sam.”
Challenges in Casting and Production
One of the most significant hurdles Olivia faced was casting someone who could authentically portray her father. The search required finding an elderly Chinese actor fluent in Mandarin, mirroring her father's demeanor. After numerous setbacks, including visa issues and unsuitable looks, Olivia found the perfect fit in Jim Lau, an experienced actor who effortlessly transformed into her father.
Notable Quote:
Olivia (20:03): “I did, and it was the most difficult thing. ... I needed someone in their late 60s, early 70s Chinese who can speak Mandarin fluently, who sort of look like my dad.”
Additionally, securing a filming location proved challenging. Olivia sought permission to shoot at Bistro Nas, a highly acclaimed Chinese restaurant known for its Michelin rating. Through persistent negotiation and showcasing her genuine connection to the establishment, she secured a feasible shooting schedule that accommodated both her budget and the restaurant's operational constraints.
Notable Quote:
Olivia (33:03): “I wrote them this email, and I basically felt like I poured everything out there. ... there's a more genuine aspect to it.”
Budgeting and Funding Strategies
Budgeting emerged as a critical learning curve for Olivia. Without prior experience, she navigated the complexities of allocating funds effectively. Olivia utilized personal savings and secured donations from supportive friends to fund her project, emphasizing the importance of community support in independent filmmaking.
Notable Quote:
Olivia (25:08): “I was like, that's so nice. There's no money for short films. Luckily, my friend Dorothy Wang, she’s amazing. We met, she donated.”
Technical Glitches and Crisis Management
During production, Olivia encountered several technical setbacks, including the crashing of both her primary and secondary hard drives. These incidents threatened to derail the project, but with quick thinking and the assistance of recovery experts, she managed to salvage the footage.
Notable Quote:
Olivia (28:03): “Then the other, the secondary one crashed. And I was like, okay, let's just order another hard drive. ... But then it crashes again.”
Post-Production and Overcoming Mental Struggles
In the post-production phase, Olivia dealt with additional stressors, including script adjustments and the pressure to perfect every detail. She candidly shares her struggles with self-doubt and the mental toll of managing such a personal project.
Notable Quote:
Olivia (39:45): “I would wake up in the middle of the night, like just sweating. ... This is me being so vulnerable.”
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
Drawing from her experiences, Olivia offers valuable advice for those looking to embark on their filmmaking journeys:
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Clear Vision and Collaboration:
Olivia (57:31): “Having a clear idea of what you want to make, but also being collaborative.” -
Budgeting and Networking:
Olivia (58:05): “You have to budget things out. ... You know, like how much things cost, how much it'll...” -
Kindness and Persistence:
Olivia (58:24): “Being nice to people goes a long way. ... Believe in yourself, have a clear vision, and be nice to people.”
Future Endeavors and Closing Thoughts
Olivia expresses her eagerness to continue creating, hinting at future projects like music videos. She emphasizes the transformative impact of her filmmaking experience, highlighting personal growth and a newfound appreciation for collaborative creativity.
Notable Quote:
Olivia (55:32): “This was the best experience ever. And I now just want to do more things like that.”
Conclusion
Episode #70 of Smosh Mouth provides an insightful look into the challenges and triumphs of independent filmmaking through Olivia's story. Her candid discussions on budgeting, casting, technical issues, and personal growth offer a relatable and inspiring narrative for aspiring filmmakers. Olivia's journey underscores the importance of perseverance, community support, and the courage to share personal stories through the art of cinema.
Follow Olivia’s Journey:
To stay updated on Olivia’s short film "Way Baba," follow her on Instagram at @WayBabaFilm.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and emotions shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in.