Interviews and conversations
on filmmaking, community, family, and storytelling.
On B96 Chicago’s Mough & Karla morning show!
An amazing time this morning chatting with @johnmoug and @itsvodkarla on @b96chicago about our film “CAKE.” It was such a great feeling to share details about the film with everyone in my hometown. Huge thanks to B96 for the opportunity!
CAKE was produced by Mass Epiphany Studios and Deep Focus Entertainment.
ILSE WILL SAY some episodes start calm. NOT THIS ONE!
This one started with arguing about the Do Not Disturb moon 🌙
My guest Erick Juarez @erickjuarez7 is a Guatemalan-born, Chicago-raised filmmaker who went from NIU to the Moscow Art Theatre, spent years in LA, and came back with a clear realization: stop asking for permission and start making the work.
We talk about acting as a full-body experience, warming down after heavy roles, reggaeton as a nervous system reset, why everyday life does not need to be high stakes, and what it actually feels like to build your own production company from the ground up.
Also covered:
• the little moon on your phone
• Home Alone as a personality trait
• quietly building something big
• always having something in pre, something filming, and something in post
This one is funny, thoughtful, and grounding in the sneaky way.
Out now.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts.
Follow Erick and his work through Deep Focus Entertainment @deep_focus_entertainment_ 🎥
Had a great time on The Thursday Script on Que4 Radio talking with Tyler Balentine!
Talked about my journey as a Chicago-based Latino filmmaker and the process behind my work. We discussed starting my production company, Deep Focus Entertainment, and making films that feel personal yet elevated. We also talked about my two recent projects, CAKE and RIPPLE. Two very different films in tone and style. Tyler made it a super fun experience! Loved having conversations that centered on community, representation, and opportunity.
Be sure to follow The Thursday Script and support Tyler! Such an important platform for what’s happening in Chicago.
