Horror fans and aspiring filmmakers, take note! Acclaimed Saw veterans Darren Lynn Bousman (Saw II-IV, Spiral) and Josh Stolberg (Jigsaw, Saw X) have unveiled their latest collaborative effort. No, it’s not another blood-curdling trap-laden horror flick (although we wouldn’t rule that out for the future). Instead, they’re stepping into the world of podcasting with “Darren & Josh Make a Movie”, a raw, unfiltered weekly series about the messy, thrilling, and unpredictable world of filmmaking.
Whether you’re a horror aficionado, an aspiring director, or just someone curious about how Hollywood operates behind the curtains, this podcast promises to provide a brutally honest and highly educational experience. Here’s everything you need to know about their new venture and why it’s worth tuning in.
What Is “Darren & Josh Make a Movie” All About?
Rather than being just another filmmaking podcast, “Darren & Josh Make a Movie” offers a groundbreaking twist. The series follows Bousman and Stolberg as they document, in real time, the development, production, and eventual release of a feature horror film. It’s a masterclass in modern filmmaking, where listeners get behind-the-scenes access to every triumph, failure, and chaotic moment along the way.
What Listeners Can Expect
Each episode dives into a specific phase of filmmaking, painstakingly detailed through the lens of two veterans who have been there and done that. The show is structured across four seasons, covering the entire production cycle:
- Development – From brainstorming sessions to script revisions.
- Pre-Production – Casting, location scouting, budgeting, and endless logistics.
- Production – Long hours, on-set chaos, and the magic of capturing a story on camera.
- Post-Production – Editing, special effects, marketing, and preparing for the red carpet premiere.
While the podcast centers on horror, the lessons extend far beyond the genre. The duo explores universal filmmaking challenges, making it valuable whether you’re an indie drama writer, an animator, or simply a cinephile.
Why This Podcast Stands Out
Bousman and Stolberg aim to demystify filmmaking by pulling back the (sometimes bloody) curtain on an often-glamorized industry. It’s for anyone tired of the polished “PR fluff” that paints Hollywood as an endless string of successes.
“We’ve both had hits, misses, and everything in between,” Bousman shares. “This is the show we wish had existed when we started. No PR spin, just the real shit.”
Stolberg echoes that sentiment. “We’re not just talking about making a movie—we’re actually doing it, and bringing listeners along every step of the way.”
Instead of theory or vague advice, you’re getting real-time decisions, unfiltered stories, and insights directly from the trenches of filmmaking. Plus, fans get the unique opportunity to participate, including voicing opinions on ideas, engaging in test screenings, and even potentially securing their names in the credits.
Highlights of “Darren & Josh Make a Movie”
- Exclusive Hollywood Guest Appearances
Expect candid conversations with some of the biggest names in horror and filmmaking. Previous episodes have featured influencers like James A. Janisse (Dead Meat James of Kill Count fame) and actress Hana Mae Lee (Pitch Perfect, The Babysitter).
- Iconic Horror Locations
Episodes are sometimes recorded at legendary horror landmarks, including The Mystic Museum and the infamous Cecil Hotel, adding an atmospheric flair for horror fans.
- Educational Yet Entertaining
Learn about filmmaking jargon, creative problem-solving, and production tools while enjoying the humorous banter of two seasoned creatives.
- Free with Bonus Perks
While the podcast itself is free, fans can access additional perks through planned subscription tiers. These include virtual set visits, Zoom town halls with Bousman and Stolberg, horror trivia nights, and much more.
Meet the Hosts
Darren Lynn Bousman
With directorial credits for some of the Saw franchise’s highest-grossing films, Bousman’s knack for tension-filled storytelling is unmatched. Outside of Saw, he has brought musicals like Repo! The Genetic Opera to life and directed immersive experiences like The Tension Experience.
Josh Stolberg
An expert in crafting gruesomely creative narratives, Stolberg has penned spine-chilling favorites such as Sorority Row and Piranha 3D. His recent work on Saw X further solidifies his role as a master of the macabre. Together, the duo brings 60 years of combined filmmaking experience to the table, ensuring there’s no shortage of expertise.
Why You Should Tune In
If you’re a horror movie fan itching for insider knowledge, consider this your golden ticket. But it’s not just for genre enthusiasts. “Darren & Josh Make a Movie” serves as a skill-building platform for aspiring filmmakers. With practical resources like templates and checklists shared online, the podcast reaches beyond entertainment to inspire and educate.
The interactivity also sets the series apart. From voting on ideas to potentially attending test screenings, listeners aren’t passive observers – they’re collaborators. This level of engagement not only nurtures creativity but also builds a dedicated filmmaking community.
How to Follow Along
Getting started is easy. Episodes are available on major podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with video versions streaming on YouTube. To stay updated, follow Darren and Josh’s social media pages under @DJMakeAMovie or sign up for their newsletter at djmakeamovie.com.
Whether you’re into screams, behind-the-scenes reveals, or simply fascinated by the art of filmmaking, “Darren & Josh Make a Movie” delivers something for everyone.