Behind the Scenes of FUSE with director David Mackenzie

Join hosts Thalia and Marie in a post-screening conversation with director and UNLV Film professor David Mackenzie on the making of FUSE. From filming in London’s intricate permitting landscape to refining scenes for maximum tension, this episode is packed with film industry secrets and creative wisdom — perfect for cinephiles and aspiring filmmakers alike!

We discuss:

The challenges and nuances of filming in London, including traffic, permits, and coordinating complex scenesThe influence of UK history and locations on the story's setting and moodThe importance of improvisation and scene timing in building tensionHow consulting experts like ex-military personnel enhances authenticityThe evolution of the script and editing choices that shape storytellingWorking with a talented cast including Theo James and Aaron Taylor-JohnsonThe financing lifecycle of a mid-budget film and navigating international salesThe significance of community and peer collaboration in filmmakingDecisions behind the film’s ambiguous ending and real-time storytellingResources & Links:

UNLV Film ProgramProfessor David McKenzie - IMDbCredits:

Email us: thefilmdeptpod@gmail.com

HOSTS - Jaidyn Thalia Sanders, Meredith Costello, Marie Palmieri

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker

EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand

For The Beverly:

Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer

Alexi Harber, General Manager

Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager