In this episode of the 1st on Film Podcast, we sit down with Canadian writer, director, and actor Bryce Hodgson to discuss his feature directorial debut, Thanks to the Hard Work of the Elephants.

Bryce takes us behind the scenes of bringing this ambitious independent drama to life, from developing the screenplay and making the transition from acting to directing, to balancing the film’s emotional intimacy with its kinetic, road-movie energy. We also explore the challenges of creating an independent feature, the collaborative spirit that helped make the film possible, and the personal experiences that shaped its story.

Known to many audiences for his acting work in iZombie, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and X2: X-Men United, Bryce reflects on his creative journey and why stepping behind the camera was the natural next chapter in his career.

If you’re passionate about independent filmmaking, storytelling, or the creative process behind a debut feature, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

On this episode of the 1st on Film Podcast, we sit down with acclaimed writer and director Jérémy Comte to discuss his latest short film, BRUTE, screening at the Future of Film Showcase in Toronto. We explore the film’s haunting story of a young sculptor consumed by crippling anxiety, the creative inspiration behind its striking visual style, and the challenges of bringing such an intensely personal and psychological story to the screen.

Jérémy also reflects on his filmmaking journey, the evolution of his work since his Academy Award-nominated short Fauve, and what continues to drive him as a storyteller. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or simply love discovering bold new voices in cinema, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Jérémy Comte is a Canadian writer, director, and editor based in Montreal. A graduate of Concordia University, Comte gained international recognition with his acclaimed 2018 short film Fauve, which won the Special Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, earned the Canadian Screen Award for Best Live Action Short Drama, and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short. His work is celebrated for its emotionally rich storytelling, poetic imagery, and exploration of the human condition. His latest short film, BRUTE, continues that tradition with a powerful psychological portrait of artistic anxiety and is screening as part of the 2026 Future of Film Showcase in Toronto.

The Future of Film Showcase (FOFS) is a Toronto-based, not-for-profit film festival dedicated to championing the next generation of Canadian filmmakers. Each year, the festival brings together emerging artists, industry professionals, and film lovers for a weekend of screenings, panels, workshops, and networking opportunities. With a strong focus on amplifying diverse voices and fostering creative talent, FOFS has become one of Canada’s leading platforms for discovering exciting new filmmakers and celebrating the future of Canadian cinema.

Boldly going where no podcast has gone before! We sit down with Anson Mount, the actor behind Captain Christopher Pike, to discuss the highly anticipated new season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

During our conversation, Anson shares which member of the Enterprise crew he connects with the most, teases the show’s unique puppet-themed episode, and discusses the challenges and fun of bringing that story to life through voice performance. We also reflect on his journey portraying Captain Pike over the years and how becoming a father has influenced the way he views the character, including the Pike trait he carries with him in everyday life.

Anson Mount is an American actor best known for portraying Captain Christopher Pike in Star Trek: Discovery and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. His portrayal of the legendary Starfleet captain has earned widespread praise for bringing warmth, compassion, and confidence to one of the franchise’s most iconic leaders.

Beyond Star Trek, Mount is well known for starring as Cullen Bohannon in the acclaimed western drama Hell on Wheels. His film and television credits also include Crossroads, Safe, Conviction, Marvel’s Inhumans, and numerous other projects spanning more than two decades.

With a career defined by memorable performances across film and television, Mount has become one of the most respected actors in modern science fiction while continuing to take on a diverse range of dramatic roles.