On Thursday, March 5th, filmmakers, creatives, and storytellers gathered at Seven24 Collective for No Permission Needed: Bringing Play Back Into Filmmaking, an evening dedicated to something the industry often forgets to prioritize: curiosity.

Hosted by Eternal Play Productions and ThespyHouse, the event brought together filmmakers Jonah Feingold, Eleanore Pienta, Danilo Parra, and Leaf Lieber for an evening of conversation about experimentation, creative risk, and why some of the most exciting filmmaking happens when artists stop waiting for approval.

Moderated by on-air personality Liam Crowley, the discussion felt both insightful and refreshingly candid. Crowley guided the conversation with intention, making sure each filmmaker had space to share their perspective while keeping the dialogue engaging and accessible for the audience. His thoughtful questions created a rhythm that allowed the conversation to move naturally between craft, career journeys, and the creative mindset that drives filmmakers forward.

As an audience member in the room, it was the kind of panel that reminds you why conversations like this matter. Each panelist brought a different perspective on creativity and process, and hearing how they approach their work offered a genuine look into the realities of filmmaking today. From discussions about trusting instinct to embracing experimentation, the night felt less like a lecture and more like an open exchange of ideas.

Part of what made the event so memorable was its intimate atmosphere. Seven24 Collective created a setting that encouraged conversation rather than distance. Guests had the chance to meet the filmmakers before the panel began, and that sense of openness carried throughout the evening.

Instead of the typical stage-to-audience separation that happens at many industry events, this gathering felt personal. Conversations began before the panel even started and continued long after it ended. Attendees were able to approach the filmmakers directly, ask questions, and share their own creative experiences. Small groups formed throughout the room as people connected over a shared love of storytelling.

For emerging filmmakers and creatives in attendance, that access made a real difference. It turned the evening into something more than a panel. It became a space for genuine connection.

The hosts of the panel set the tone for that welcoming environment. From the moment guests arrived, the event felt thoughtfully organized and creatively driven. Their ability to bring together filmmakers and audiences in a setting that felt both professional and relaxed made the night particularly special.

The evening was made possible with support from Cinapse, which sponsored the event. Cinapse builds modern production scheduling software designed specifically for the film and television industry. Created by assistant directors, producers, and technologists, the platform helps production teams collaborate more efficiently and keep projects running smoothly from pre-production through post.

Seven24 Collective also played an important role by opening its doors to the creative community. Spaces like this continue to show how valuable physical gathering places are for artists, offering room for conversation, collaboration, and inspiration.

The conversation reinforced the spirit behind the panel’s title. Some of the most exciting filmmaking happens when artists stop asking for permission.

In a room full of filmmakers and storytellers, that spirit of play was very much alive.

Photo Credit: Andrew Gonzalez