#111 Filming Under Fire (ft. Highlight Films)

In this episode, we sit down with Noam Shalev, founder of Highlight Films, to discuss a side of the production industry few get to see. Based in Israel, Noam’s team handles everything from high-end corporate shoots to gritty news coverage in active conflict zones.

We dive into what it really means to be a “fixer” , how remote production technology has allowed directors in LA to direct crews in Tel Aviv , and the massive logistical pivot Noam’s company made on October 7th—shifting from seven corporate productions to managing 15 news crews overnight. Noam also opens up about the emotional toll of documenting history , the safety protocols required when filming under fire , and why, despite the chaos, he refuses to leave.

In this episode, we cover:

The “Fixer” Role: Why the term is derogatory but necessary, and what the job actually entails.
Production Logistics: How COVID revolutionized remote directing for international clients.
Crisis Management: Pivoting a business instantly during the outbreak of war.
Safety First: Using “back office” coordination apps to dodge missile attacks and keeping crews safe.
Business Insights: How to protect yourself from international clients who might not pay.

Watch the episode here:

Listen to the Episode:

🎧 Spotify: Listen on Spotify

🎧 Apple Podcasts:Listen on Apple Podcasts

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro
00:21 – From Doc Filmmaker to “The Fixer”
02:08 – Defining the Role: What does a Fixer actually do?
02:45 – How COVID changed remote production forever
07:17 – Why Noam started doing corporate work
11:09 – October 7th: Pivoting from corporate shoots to war coverage overnight
15:56 – Safety Logistics: Walkie-talkie apps and missile alerts
17:22 – Storytime: Hiding tapes in underwear in Iraq
20:55 – The emotional toll of interviewing survivors
34:55 – The impact of political instability on the tech sector
37:40 – Managing a business when staff are called to reserve duty
43:12 – Why stay? The pull of “Home” vs. moving to LA
47:51 – “Real Chaos”: Why cameras are treated like weapons
50:47 – Building a reputation without advertising
56:01 – Protecting the business: Deposits and spotting bad clients
1:05:40 – Closing thoughts

About Our Guest

Noam Shalev

Founder & Creative Director — Highlight Films

Hosts:

Dario Nouri & Kyrill Lazarov — Lapse Productions, Toronto

About Creatives Grab Coffee:

Creatives Grab Coffee explores the business of video production, featuring candid conversations with studio owners and filmmakers around the world on scaling, creativity, and industry evolution.