We had the good fortune of connecting with Joe Howell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joe, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One thing many people don’t realize about the film industry is that bringing a film or television show to life can take years from development to final cut. The production pipeline involves multiple phases—development, pre-production, principal photography, post-production, and finally, distribution—and each stage is crucial. It’s a meticulous process, and like any form of storytelling, it’s deeply subjective. Skipping key steps in the workflow or rushing through them can compromise the integrity of the piece, from script to screen. As I navigate this journey, I always try to share insights and educate others about the behind-the-scenes realities of filmmaking.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a creative, my medium is film. Filmmaking allows me to express my artistry across multiple formats, from visual storytelling and sound design to scoring and soundtrack curation. These three elements- picture, sound, and music are my creative trifecta. Transitioning from a music background into the world of film was not always a smooth cut, but it taught me how to blend rhythm with narrative.

As a producer, especially in the role of a creative producer, I’m constantly toggling between development and logistics, managing the production pipeline while also shaping the creative vision. I’m involved in everything from concept development and script notes to budgeting and scheduling. It’s a balance between the business side of the film slate and the heartbeat of each story.

The films that we are working on and releasing now are “Joe Howell Films,” which is my specific brand. These are films that I have written and/or directed. I am developing several scripts, narrative features, documentaries, and short films under my brand. They are different genres, from drama and comedy to thrillers. I have produced an independent feature film every year for the past few years

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Metro Atlanta is full of hidden gems and standout locations, too many to hit in just a day or two. If someone were visiting for a week, I’d take them on a carefully curated location scout through the city and beyond. We would start at Piedmont Park, the city’s central green space and a true classic. From there, we would cut to Grant Park, Freedom Park, and the lush Atlanta Botanical Garden, each with its own vibe.

For a change in scenery, we would transition to the North Georgia Mountains with cinematic towns like Helen, Blue Ridge, and Hiawassee. These locations are like natural cinematic stages, perfect for both adventure and aesthetics.
In between outings, we would explore Atlanta’s food scene, from local favorites to iconic spots. Stops in Buckhead, Ponce City Market, and Little Five Points would add that perfect texture to our journey.

And for the grand finale, we would cruise along the Chattahoochee River. I have always loved water sports and being immersed in nature, which is not just a personal passion but a perfect backdrop for filming. Every setting tells a story here.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There have been countless key players who have supported me on this journey—mentors, former managers, and even studio executives- but I have to give top billing to my family. This shout-out is dedicated to them. From a young age, they’ve been my “executive producers” behind the scenes, offering unwavering support and instilling in me a strong foundation in business. Even now, those core family values are embedded in my creative process, the way I run my set, and how my production team operates.

Website: https://www.joehowell.com

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https://www.jubifilm.com

Image Credits
Stage Ten Media

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