Bud Rebel is not your typical filmmaker. With a career that spans nearly two decades, he has forged a distinctive path through the entertainment industry as an actor, director, writer, producer, podcast host, and entrepreneur. His multifaceted talents and bold approach to storytelling have earned him a reputation as one of independent cinema’s most intriguing voices.
Rebel’s cinematic journey includes two notable feature films: All Screwed Up (2009) and The Undead (2023). All Screwed Up, a gritty look at life’s unpredictable twists, found success in the indie film community and resonated with audiences on streaming platforms worldwide. His more recent film, The Undead, has drawn attention for its powerful and authentic portrayal of mental illness, woven seamlessly into the storyline. The film’s unflinching look at complex mental health themes has sparked important conversations and earned praise for its emotional depth and realism.
Always exploring new ways to tell stories, Rebel recently completed production on Seduction, an original podcast drama set to launch in 2025. Featuring a stellar cast, the project promises to push the boundaries of audio storytelling with its compelling narrative and cinematic scope. Though full details are still under wraps, early word suggests Seduction will be another bold and captivating addition to Rebel’s growing body of work.
In addition to his feature-length projects, Rebel has written and produced over a dozen short films, including Serial Killer (2023), Restaurant Return (2023), and Uncle Sid (2024). These shorts, many of which are listed on IMDbPro, showcase his range and ability to distil big ideas into compact, emotionally resonant stories that linger long after the credits roll.
Rebel also brings his sharp intellect and curious mind to The Bud Rebel Show, a bi-weekly podcast where he sits down with a diverse range of guests, including actors, musicians, entrepreneurs, and bestselling authors. The show is available on major platforms including iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Notable guests have included Jeremy Richardson (Yellowstone), Vincent M. Ward (The Walking Dead), Jeffrey Allen (Beast Games $10M winner), Bourke Floyd (Dawson’s Creek), Jack Cook (The Private Eye), Ashley Auguillard (Curb Your Enthusiasm), and bestselling author Dr Samantha Harte, among others. Each episode is a deep dive into the lives and minds of people making waves in their respective industries.
In 2024, Rebel’s unique contributions to film, media, and entrepreneurship were recognised when he was named one of the Top Twenty Entrepreneurs by Deluxe Version magazine. The honour reflects not only his creative achievements but also his relentless drive to innovate and inspire across multiple platforms.
Recently, Rebel sat down for an in-depth interview with FilmCentral magazine, where he shared insights into his creative process, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and what’s next for him as he continues to push boundaries and champion original storytelling. Here’s what went down:
1. Can you tell us about your latest project, Seduction?
Seduction is a powerful and original audio drama that brings the listener into a world full of the excitement of addiction, as well as the consequences that can occur during this dark and twisted journey. It’s a gripping tale of morality tested by passion, following the highs and lows of Tony meeting Maria.
2. What was it like working with your producers, crew, and incredible cast on this production?
We had an incredible team, such as Mikeala Phillips and Mert Ozcan (The Record House), who could see exactly how the story needed to be told and translate it perfectly into sound. They worked with me and the cast to bring the script to life, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for audiences to hear it soon!
3. What did you find difficult and/or enjoyable about creating for a podcast, an audio-only medium?
Sound was an interesting challenge, as we had to create and depict a visual representation of the story for the audience, but one that they could only hear… without the use of elaborate sets, lighting, makeup, or set design. It was a different experience creating for this platform, and we got down to business right away, moving quickly.
4. What’s challenging about bringing a script to life?
Bringing a script to life is challenging because it’s not just about filming what’s written, it’s about turning words and one’s writing into real emotions and cinematic moments. You must guide a team, make tough decisions, and solve problems every day, all while ensuring the heart of the story remains at the forefront.
5. Where do you draw your inspiration from for your stories?
My inspiration for writing my stories comes from my own life experiences and the interesting characters I meet along the way.
6. What rules or conventions in filmmaking do you personally choose to ignore – and why?
Great question, convention is the rule I try to ignore in my filmmaking! I want the viewer to be entertained through a whole different lens – one that features unique characters who embark on unconventional journeys and are more relatable.
7. Examining your body of work, a noticeable thread of deeper meanings, conversations, or morals is evident within your stories, often presented in an entertaining or thought-provoking manner. Is this an intentional approach, and what draws you to weaving these kinds of themes into your work?
Yes, I believe a story should draw a viewer into thinking about things they may not have looked at without becoming preachy. In some way, I hope my films make the world a better place for those who view them and their loved ones. If something I create can spark conversation, relatability, or even give a voice to diverse situations that others feel seen by, that’s rewarding.
8. Which of your past films was the most fun to make, and why?
It would probably be “All Screwed Up” because it was my first journey into this world which was only a dream before!
9. Do you have plans for another film? What’s next?
I believe “A Hell Can Wait” is an audio drama. It’s big, bold, and will take the listener to a whole new universe. God willing, they will never forget.
10. If someone were going to make your life into a movie, who would play you?
A younger version of Tom Cruise. Seriously, though, I’d leave that to the Director though.
11. Tell us about anything else interesting!
Creating art is so rewarding because one’s blueprint is left out there, and even if it’s covered up, a bit of your deeper self is still revealed for all the world to see forever.
