E32 • Inspiring Action Through Activist Filmmaking • BEN RUSSELL, co-dir. of ‘Direct Action’ at the New York Film Festival + Berlinale

Past Present Feature with Marcus Mizelle

Chapters
0:34
Past Present Feature, Hosted by Marcus Mizelle
1:10
Introducing Filmmaker Ben Russell, co-dir. of "Direct Action" at NYFF + Berlinale
1:35
Transitioning from American to European Cinema
3:22
The Impact of Public Funding on Filmmaking
6:45
Observational Cinema: A New Approach + Kirsten Johnson's "Cameraperson"
10:26
Creating a Portrait of a Community
15:21
The Art of Long Takes and Minimalism
21:09
Audience Engagement and Film Distribution
26:05
The Role of Filmmakers in Activism
31:28
Reflections on Filmmaking and Personal Growth
36:23
The Power of Cinema to Inspire Action
37:25
Past Inspirations: Frederick Wiseman & Maysles Brothers + Duration of Runtime
41:39
Final Words of Filmmaking Wisdom
Past Present Feature with Marcus Mizelle
E32 • Inspiring Action Through Activist Filmmaking • BEN RUSSELL, co-dir. of ‘Direct Action’ at the New York Film Festival + Berlinale
Nov 26, 2024 Season 1 Episode 32 Marcus Mizelle

Ben Russell delves into the concept of observational cinema, sharing insights on his latest co-directing effort “Direct Action” (with Guillaume Cailleau), which portrays a radical activist community in France. It debuted at Berinale and just screened at the New York Film Festival. Past films discussed include Kirsten Johnson’s “Cameraperson” and the observational films of Frederick Wiseman and The Maysles Brothers.

Ben shares his experience transitioning as a filmmaker from America to France, exploring the differences between American and European cinema, and the impact of public funding on film production. The discussion also touches on filmmaking techniques, audience engagement, and the importance of creating context for films. 

Ben emphasizes the power of cinema to inspire action and reflection, advocating for a more immersive and community-oriented approach to filmmaking.

What Movies Are You Watching?

The Past Present Feature Film Festival returns Saturday, November 21, 2026, at Eastwood Revival in Hollywood, California.

Join us for features, shorts, and convos with filmmakers, including an in-person Q&A with Shih-Ching Tsou following a screening of her acclaimed film Left-Handed Girl.

Festival lineup, schedule, and reservations coming soon.

 https://pastpresentfeature.com/film-festival/

Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.

Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. 

This episode is brought to you by BeastGrip. When you're filming on your phone and need something solid, modular, and built for real productions - including 28 Years Later and Left Handed Girl - BeastGrip's rigs, lenses, and accessories are designed to hold up without slowing you down. 

If you're ready to level up your mobile workflow, visit BeastGrip.com and use coupon code PASTPRESENTFEATURE for 10 % off. 

Support the show

The Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature

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