The Story Breakdown

Ethan Weitz

This is a podcast exploring the art and science of documentary storytelling. In conversations with documentary filmmakers, directors, and editors, we dig into their work to answer questions like: What makes a compelling story? What does it take to bring a documentary project to life? And how can we use documentary stories to connect audiences with brands and organizations? If you’re a filmmaker, editor, or content creator looking to grow your documentary skills–this show is for you. read less

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Ethics, Journalism, & Documentary Filmmaking (feat. Dave Wurtzel)

Ethics, Journalism, & Documentary Filmmaking (feat. Dave Wurtzel)

In this episode, I’m really excited to share a conversation I had with Dave Wurtzel, an Emmy-award winning filmmaker from Connecticut. He works for the Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network as a visual journalist, crafting short and full-length documentaries. He also works in the film industry as a freelance DP. I found Dave’s perspective on storytelling really refreshing, since he comes at it not just as a creative but also as a journalist. If you’re involved with doc filmmaking at any level, I think you’re going to glean some valuable insights from what he has to say.

Episodes

Ethics, Journalism, & Documentary Filmmaking (feat. Dave Wurtzel)

Ethics, Journalism, & Documentary Filmmaking (feat. Dave Wurtzel)

In this episode, I’m really excited to share a conversation I had with Dave Wurtzel, an Emmy-award winning filmmaker from Connecticut. He works for the Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network as a visual journalist, crafting short and full-length documentaries. He also works in the film industry as a freelance DP. I found Dave’s perspective on storytelling really refreshing, since he comes at it not just as a creative but also as a journalist. If you’re involved with doc filmmaking at any level, I think you’re going to glean some valuable insights from what he has to say.

Building Relationships with Documentary Subjects (feat. Brandon Deepwell)

Building Relationships with Documentary Subjects (feat. Brandon Deepwell)

This episode of The Story Breakdown features nonprofit filmmaker Brandon Deepwell. Our conversation touches on concrete strategies like getting proper coverage for a documentary scene as well as reflections on working with subjects and the rewards of filmmaking.

The Power of Small Storytelling (feat. Brian Artka)

The Power of Small Storytelling (feat. Brian Artka)

In this episode, director Brian Artka of Size43 Films explains his process for working with organizations and businesses to craft compelling video stories that produce real-world results.

Curiosity: The Doc Filmmaker’s Greatest Asset (feat. Evan Bourcier)

Curiosity: The Doc Filmmaker’s Greatest Asset (feat. Evan Bourcier)

In this episode, director and DP Evan Bourcier gives a behind-the-scenes look at his films ‘In the Arena’ and ‘On Choosing Violence.’ He also shares broadly about his filmmaking journey, his perspective on storytelling, and why you shouldn’t tell the story that’s in your head.