Episode 27 - 500 Short Films in 20 Years, with Brian Cates

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast, host Jaclyn Whitt interviews Emmy award-winning filmmaker Brian Cates. Brian shares his journey from being passionate about movies and competitive drama during his youth to becoming the director and co-writer of the Dove Award-nominated film Family Camp. Alongside the Skit Guys, Brian has produced over 500 short films and helped build one of the largest faith based short film distribution networks in the world. The discussion delves into Brian's initial interests in acting and filmmaking, his spiritual calling to ministry, and his work with the Skit Guys and eventual transition to feature filmmaking. Brian provides insights into the creative and spiritual aspirations behind his work with the Skit Guys, emphasizing “Humor, Heart, and Him” as core elements. He also discusses the genesis and development of Family Camp, highlighting the collaborative effort and divine providence involved in making the project a reality. Listen for:

• Welcome and Introduction
• Getting to Know Brian Cates
• The World of Competitive Drama and Audiobook Narration
• Brian's Journey into Filmmaking
• A Weekly Time Slot: Youth Group Videos
• A Call to Ministry, and the Birth of The Skit Guys
• The Evolution of Skit Guys and Church Content Distribution
• Transitioning from Skits to Feature Films
• The Impact of The Skit Guys
• Conclusion and Where to Watch Family Camp

Brian Cates is an Emmy® Award-winning filmmaker, and is best known as the director and co-writer of the Dove Award nominated feature film, FAMILY CAMP. Over the past 15 years he has directed over 500 short films with The Skit Guys, and with them has built one of the largest faith-based short-film distribution networks in the world. Brian lives in Oklahoma City with his wife and best friend, Jina, and their three daughters.

The Skit Guys online: skitguys.com

Brian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notbriancates/

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every Monday, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

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