George Jaques on The Filmmakers Podcast Talking Sunny Dancer

Writing, Producing & Directing Bella Ramsey & Neil Patrick Harris: George Jaques on ‘Sunny Dancer’ & The Second Feature Hustle

August 13, 2026 Leave a comment

Leveling Up the Second Feature: George Jaques on Directing Sunny Dancer, Bella Ramsey & Neil Patrick Harris

How do you transition from a £500k indie debut to a massive ensemble feature starring some of the biggest names in television and film? This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, Giles Alderson sits down with returning guest, writer-director George Jaques (Black Dog), to discuss his stunning second feature, Sunny Dancer.

Set against the backdrop of a summer camp for young cancer survivors, Sunny Dancer is a funny, warm, and deeply moving coming-of-age story that actively rejects hospital drama clichés. George breaks down his entire process, from pitching the script to Bella Ramsey and casting Neil Patrick Harris over Zoom, to creating an authentic, bond-filled atmosphere for his young cast on set in Scotland.

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Noah Baumbach on The Filmmakers Podcast

NOAH BAUMBACH: Directing George Clooney & Adam Sandler in “Jay Kelly” | Directing Process & Working with actors

November 26, 2025 Leave a comment

On this weeks episode with have Director and Writer Noah Baumbach.
Dom Lenoir (Dombach meets Baumbach!!) sits down with the Oscar-nominated filmmaker Noah Baumbach (Barbie, The Squid and The Whale, Marriage Story) to dive into his stunning new film, Jay Kelly. The director explains his intimate writing process for building emotionally complex characters, the challenge of directing superstars like George Clooney and Adam Sandler, and how he uses Hollywood fame as a device for poignant dramedy. Baumbach shares exclusive insight on his unique collaborative relationships, the film’s visual style, and the lessons learned from Marriage Story to Jay Kelly. A masterclass in screenwriting and auteur filmmaking.
“Jay Kelly” is a dramedy that follows famous movie actor Jay Kelly (George Clooney) as he embarks on an unexpected, profound journey through Europe with his devoted manager Ron (Adam Sandler). The film is a self-reflective look at celebrity, legacy, regret, and the toll a public life takes on family.
Jay Kelly is out now.

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