Episode 429: How to Mix Hip-Hop, Faith, and Filmmaking | Yelena Popovic & Moses The Black

Serbian-born filmmaker Yelena Popovic transformed her harrowing journey from war refugee to Hollywood director into a masterclass on perseverance, culminating in her latest film "Moses the Black" starring Omar Epps and executive produced by 50 Cent. While pursuing her filmmaking dreams, Popovic learned to rely on faith and authentic storytelling, which led to her breakthrough success with "Man of God," a movie that dominated box offices in Greece and Serbia. Her latest project translates the story of a 4th-century Egyptian saint into a contemporary Chicago gang narrative, demonstrating how ancient transformation stories can resonate with modern urban audiences. Yelena's unique approach involves deep community research and collaboration, spending extensive time in West Side Chicago to ensure authentic representation rather than Hollywood stereotypes. Her work challenges traditional faith-based movie conventions by focusing on raw human truth and redemption rather than preaching, creating films that speak to both spiritual and secular audiences. Subscribe. Like. Share. [0:00:00] Sponsor Introduction - Factor Meal Service [0:00:31] Host Introductions and Notorious B.I.G. Discussion [0:02:44] Guest Introduction - Yelena Popovic [0:03:21] Yelena's Background - Born in Belgrade, Serbia/Yugoslavia [0:03:48] Yugo Car Stories and Cultural Connections [0:07:25] Childhood Household Description [0:08:58] Leaving Home at 16 and War Context [0:11:16] Immigration Journey and Career Evolution [0:14:03] Dark Periods and Faith as Survival Tool [0:17:08] Miraculous Experiences During "Man of God" Production [0:25:00] Hurricane Miracle Story During Film Shooting [0:28:01] Life Philosophy - Humility and Love [0:30:25] Audience Polls on Faith-Based Films [0:42:00] Sponsor Segments - Film Crew Technology and Factor [0:47:24] Filmmaker Q&A Introduction [0:47:40] "Moses the Black" Film Overview [0:51:17] Modern vs. Historical Storytelling Decision [0:53:32] Community Research and Collaboration Process [0:57:04] Avoiding Preachiness in Faith-Based Films [1:03:19] Hip-Hop Artist Involvement and Authentic Casting [1:12:11] Clear the Set Rapid-Fire Questions [1:23:40] Closing and Social Media Information [1:26:23] Final Credo and Goodbye All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Mastering Film Marketing https://shop.beacons.ai/themakeitpodc... The MAKE IT Podcast Bookstore: https://bookshop.org/lists/chris-nick... *The MAKE IT Podcast Swag*: https://cottonbureau.com/people/the-m... Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4hJDqI6 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3lloxKH... Key topics covered in MAKE IT podcast episodes: How to make it in film today Filmmaking for beginners The art of filmmaking The business of film Do's and Dont's in the film industry Film industry trends How to distribute your film How to finance your film How to network in the film industry How to market and promote your film Film education and professional development #movie #movies #film #interview #podcast