Written by Kayla Lybbert, Photos by Riley Reed, Graphic by Kayla Lybbert.
Variety’s panel covering nine artisans across film and TV returned on Oct. 27, 2026. Nine craftspeople were able to share their thoughts on their respective films and artistic processes.
Anne Jimkes: The supervising sound editor for “The Mosquito Bowl”
- Don’t be afraid of silence.
Aulo Licinio: Animation supervisor for “Project Hail Mary”
- Work on yourself as much as you’re working on projects.
Landon Lott: Art director for “Pluribus”
- There’s always going to be someone better than you, but don’t let that stop you from doing what you want to do.
Blair McClendon: Editor for “Clarissa”
- Try to be veracious with what you take in, and look everywhere for solutions.
Raül Refree: Composer for “La Bola Negra”
- Trust your intuition and your teammates’ intuition.
Jessica Ronane: Casting director for “Elsinore”
- Absorb art in all forms. Keep in touch with your empathetic nature as an artist.
Allie Shehorn: Makeup and hair department head for “Obsession”
- Always put 150% into your craft, and don’t be afraid to fail. It’s the only way you learn how to not do something.
Grace Snell: Costume designer for “Sense and Sensibility”
- When you don’t know what your design is going to be, start narrowing it down by what it isn’t going to be.
Danny Vermette: Production designer for “Backrooms”
- Don’t be afraid to ask dumb questions.
It is always a pleasure to hear from all different departments, as nothing could be done without collaboration. This panel offered an inspiring space for artists to share their tips and experiences to young filmmakers. This enlightening discussion hopefully sparked something in you too.
