How the Pandemic Changed the Film Industry
Media In the Mix is back! This biweekly podcast is produced by American University School of Communication (AU SOC) and drops every other Wednesday on Anchor, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Rebooted with a new host and producer, Grace Ibrahim, Media in the Mix is out to explore topics in communications, pop culture, social justice and more this semester. As an SOC alumna, Ibrahim brings her experience and wit to the mic as she chats with students, alumni, and faculty.
This season’s first episode dropped October 5 with guest professor Claudia Myers, head of SOC Film Division’s Art in Entertainment concentration. Myers joined Ibrahim to discuss the changes in the film industry, as we move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Myers, a working filmmaker, most recently wrote, directed and produced "Above the Shadows" starring Olivia Thirlby, Alan Ritchson, Jim Gaffigan, and Megan Fox. Myers was named one of "10 Filmmakers to Watch" by Independent Magazine. During the episode, Myers takes listeners step-by-step through pre-production to filming to premiere all while considering the impact of industry changes brought about by COVID-19 that may now be permanent, even going into the complexities of distribution for independent films.
Myers and Ibrahim also explore the current rate of content creation, its sustainability, quality, and streaming services. "The distribution landscape was already changing, and it really accelerated during the pandemic," says Myers. "The streamers are emerging as the new studios right now; they are filling that role. They’re generating new content, they’re commissioning work."
As the episode closes, Myers discusses some of the courses she has created at SOC, and what outcomes they deliver. She shares how she challenges students to perform at a professional level in her courses so they can build the skills and confidence they need to succeed as professionals.
Check out previous Media in the Mix episodes: