How to Succeed at Marriage and Movies with Actress Katherine Ro

This episode offered a packed lineup of updates, insights, and inspiration from the film industry. Hosts Chris Barkley and Nicholas Buggs were joined by Terminal List actress Katherine Ro.  They reflected on recent film festivals, the challenges and joys of filmmaking, and the craft of acting. From local community festivals to Katherine’s work in high-profile projects, the conversation served as a celebration of storytelling and the people who bring films to life.

Highlights from the Nashville Film Festival

Chris Barkley kicked off the episode with updates from the Nashville Film Festival, an event that continues to grow in prestige and impact. He shared highlights of the festival, including notable attendees and standout films. Among them was Bob Trevino Likes It, which featured stellar performances by John Leguizamo and Barbie Ferreira. Chris’s enthusiasm for the festival underscored the importance of such events in showcasing diverse talent and fostering a sense of community among filmmakers and audiences alike. Chris also encouraged listeners to support the podcast by subscribing and liking it on YouTube, reinforcing the podcast’s mission to uplift the independent film community.

The Prince George County Film Festival: A Local Gem

Nicholas Buggs shared his experience attending the Prince George County Film Festival in Maryland. Accompanied by his son, Nick reflected on the value of supporting local filmmakers and the unique sense of community these festivals cultivate. He recounted meeting former podcast guest Vanzil Burke, further emphasizing the importance of networking and fostering connections in the industry. Nick's reflections highlighted the essential role smaller festivals play in nurturing emerging talent and creating spaces for storytelling that resonate on a local level.

Katherine Ro: A Global Talent

Katherine Ro’s introduction added a new dimension to the conversation. With roots in Venezuela, Miami, and Utah, and now residing in Budapest, Katherine’s diverse background has informed her unique perspective as an actress. Currently starring in the prequel to The Terminal List, Katherine shared her journey from modeling to acting, recounting the pivotal moments that shaped her career. Chris and Nick praised Katherine’s work on The Terminal List, acknowledging her dedication to the craft. Katherine’s early interest in acting, coupled with her willingness to embrace challenges, serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists navigating their own paths in the industry.

Balancing Family and Career: The Art of Sacrifice

A significant portion of the conversation centered on the sacrifices required to balance a career in the film industry with family life. Katherine shared her experience of prioritizing her husband’s career growth while temporarily stepping back from her own. Her candid reflections emphasized the importance of communication, teamwork, and mutual support in managing personal and professional responsibilities. Katherine’s story highlighted the reality of navigating dual careers in demanding industries and the strength it takes to make decisions that benefit the greater good of the family unit.

Voice Acting vs. Traditional Acting: A Unique Craft

Intern Sam sparked a lively discussion with a poll on whether voice acting or traditional acting is more challenging. Katherine explained the intricacies of voice acting, from mastering projection and inflection to conveying emotion without physical movement. Nick attempted his own voice acting, humorously channeling Bane at a grocery store, which drew a great deal of surprise and laughter from the team. The conversation shed light on the specific skills required for voice acting and the importance of training, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for this specialized craft.  The poll revealed that 70% of respondents found voice acting more challenging than traditional acting

The Film Crew Technology Program: A Pathway for Aspiring Filmmakers

Chris and Nick took a moment to spotlight the Film Crew Technology Program at Columbia State Community College. Designed to provide hands-on training in safety, production, and post-production, the program equips students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the film industry. With access to state-of-the-art equipment and financial aid options, the program offers an accessible pathway for aspiring filmmakers to break into the field. The hosts' endorsement of the program emphasized the importance of education and practical experience in building a successful filmmaking career.

Poll Results: Fashion in Film and Voice Acting Challenges

Intern Sam returned with poll results that added a fun twist to the episode. In a poll on iconic fashion movies, Zoolander emerged as the winner (at the time of the recording), sparking a discussion on memorable performances in House of Gucci and Phantom Thread. These moments of audience engagement highlighted the team's commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive dialogue with their listeners.

The Role of Stunt Work in Film

Producer Papa Bear introduced a trivia question about a prominent Venezuelan stunt actress, prompting Katherine to reflect on her limited experience with stunts. While she acknowledged the expertise of professional stunt performers, the conversation touched on the broader importance of stunt work in film. Nick expressed interest in featuring stunt performers on future episodes to delve deeper into their craft, highlighting the often-unsung contributions of these professionals.

Final Thoughts: A Celebration of Collaboration and Craft

The episode concluded with a heartfelt thanks to Katherine Ro for sharing her experiences and insights. Chris and Nick reflected on the themes of the conversation, from the sacrifices and challenges of the film industry to the joy of collaboration and storytelling. A lighthearted discussion about Tom Cruise’s iconic running scenes in movies brought the episode to a cheerful close. Chris reminded listeners to support independent filmmakers and stay connected with the podcast, reinforcing the importance of community and shared passion in the world of filmmaking.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

1. Support Local Film Festivals: Events like the Nashville Film Festival and Prince George County Film Festival provide invaluable platforms for filmmakers and foster a sense of community.

2. Balancing Family and Career: Open communication and mutual support are crucial for managing personal and professional responsibilities in the film industry.

3. The Art of Voice Acting: Voice acting requires a unique set of skills that demand training, precision, and emotional depth.

4. Practical Education: Programs like the Film Crew Technology Program offer accessible opportunities for aspiring filmmakers to gain hands-on experience and build their careers.

5. Recognizing Stunt Work: Stunt performers play a vital role in filmmaking, and their contributions deserve greater recognition and exploration.

6. Celebrating Diversity: Katherine Ro’s global perspective and career journey highlight the richness of diverse voices in the industry.

Looking Ahead: The Power of Storytelling

The MAKE IT podcast continues to shine a spotlight on the people, stories, and events that define the film industry. This episode served as a celebration of the craft, from the energy of film festivals to the personal sacrifices and triumphs of filmmakers and actors like Katherine Ro. As Chris, Nick, and Katherine remind us, storytelling is a collaborative art form that thrives on passion, perseverance, and community. By supporting independent filmmakers, engaging with creative discussions, and exploring diverse perspectives, we contribute to the ongoing evolution of this vibrant industry.

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