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The DMF With Justin YountsAuthor: Justin Younts
Welcome to the DMF. Where I try to find out what motivates people behind the scenes in the world of acting and entertainment. I'm an actor who talks to people in filmmaking and theater as well as people on the business side of show business. Thank you for listening. My Facebook is Justin Younts, my Twitter is @JustinYounts and my Instagram is @JustinYounts. Language: en Genres: Film Interviews, TV & Film Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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DMF Episode 333 — Leif Bristow (Part 2): The Dark Side of Hollywood & Why I Refuse to Glorify Violence
Episode 53
Saturday, 28 February, 2026
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in Part 2 of my conversation with Emmy-winning filmmaker and producer Leif Bristow, we dive into the ethical challenges of working in Hollywood and the values that guide his filmmaking career.Leif shares why he made an early decision to avoid projects that glorify violence or rely on exploitative themes. Instead, he focuses on the power of suggestion over graphic content, creating films that uplift audiences and emphasize resilience, strength, and meaningful storytelling.In this episode, we explore:The dark side of Hollywood filmmakingEthical film production decisionsFamily-friendly content in a competitive marketCreating strong female leads and role modelsProducing films with purpose and integrityEmpowering women through storytellingAs a producer of over 40 films, Leif discusses how his personal life — including being a father to daughters — has influenced his commitment to portraying women as strong, capable, and multidimensional characters.We also examine the broader question facing filmmakers today: Can you build a successful career without compromising your values?Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, producer, or creative professional, this episode offers insight into maintaining integrity in an industry often driven by trends and commercial pressure.Join us as we explore how storytelling can inspire, empower, and create lasting impact.00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:05 - Transition to Directing00:00:18 - Personal Directing Philosophy00:01:51 - Preference for Family Friendly Content00:02:45 - Success of Family Friendly Movies00:04:15 - Making Movies for Hallmark00:05:06 - About the Aggies Book00:08:33 - Cultural Differences and Similarities00:10:35 - Relating to Other Cultures00:11:54 - Repeating Atrocities00:12:12 - Origin of Dancing Through the Shadow00:12:27 - Writing Process00:14:52 - Challenges of Making the Movie00:15:24 - Filming Challenges Due to COVID-1900:16:49 - Adapting the Book into a Movie00:21:48 - Choosing the Filming Locations00:23:39 - Directing Actors00:23:39 - Working with Family00:26:30 - Relationship with Jonathan Rhys-Davies00:28:00 - Working with Hallmark00:31:25 - Future Projects00:32:22 - Closing Remarks00:33:18 - Inside the Actor's Studio Questions00:35:21 - Contact Information and Closing
