Behind the Slate

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Bruce Robinson's 1987 film 'Withnail and I'. This podcast features a history intro about the film and a special Q&A with legendary stills photographer, Murray Close, who shot many of the iconic images from the film.Come see us for our next live show, July 24th where we will be screening Masaki Kobayashi's 'Harakiri'Tickets hereEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Walter Hills's 1979 film 'The Warriors'. This podcast features a history intro about the film and a post-film audience discussion!Come see us for our next live show, July 24th where we will be screening Masaki Kobayashi's 'Harakiri'Tickets hereEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Agnes Varda's 1962 film 'Cleo from 5 to 7'. Before the screening we hosted the OFFICIAL Agnes Varda lookalike competition (you can check out the video on our Instagram and Tiktok). So this podcast is featuring the-post film audience discussion!Come see us for our next live show, March 27th where we will be screening Walter Hill's 1979 film 'The Warriors'Tickets hereEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Tara Theatre in Atlanta, GA introducing Akira Kurosawa's 1963 film 'High and Low' as part of Videodrome's KUROSAWA NOIR screening series. Come see us for our next Behind the Slate live show, March 27th where we will be screening Walter Hill's 1979 film 'The Warriors'Tickets hereEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by one of the most influential independent filmmakers in the world, Andrew Callaghan - creator of 'All Gas No Breaks', 'Channel 5', and director of the new documentary 'Dear Kelly'. Andrew shares what it was like creating his new film, and how his innovative self-distribution strategy led to a $100k opening weekend and over 30,000 week 1 downloads, making it one of the most successful Direct-To-Consumer Documentaries ever made.WATCH 'Dear Kelly': https://www.dearkellyfilm.com/Channel 5 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-AQKm7HUNMmxjdS371MSwgAndrew on IG: @andreww.meChannel 5 on IG: @channel5Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

IN 1 WEEK CRASH ZOOM WILL BE MOVING EXCLUSIVELY TO OUR OWN PODCAST FEED.SUBSCRIBE NOW TO NEVER MISS AN EPISODE.Apple PodcastsSpotifySammie is on vacation so we are inviting a special guest to the show, Evelyn Lorena. Evelyn is an actress and filmmaker who's most recent short film 'Gabriela' qualified for the 2025 Academy Awards.She takes through her film development, the health issues she suffered during production, and why post-production budgets are often overlooked by indie filmmakers.You can watch 'Gabriela' here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=no-20lBmOIAYou can check out Aaron's work:@strandedonstage@withdrawalfilmEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@crashzoompodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! IN 2 WEEKS CRASH ZOOM WILL BE MOVING EXCLUSIVELY TO OUR OWN PODCAST FEED.SUBSCRIBE NOW TO NEVER MISS AN EPISODE.Apple PodcastsSpotifyOn today's very special episode we look back on the crazy year in film in television that was 2024.You can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie on SubstackYou can check out Aaron's work:@strandedonstage@withdrawalfilmEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@crashzoompodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

IN 2 WEEKS CRASH ZOOM WILL BE MOVING EXCLUSIVELY TO OUR OWN PODCAST FEED.SUBSCRIBE NOW TO NEVER MISS AN EPISODE.Apple PodcastsSpotifyWelcome to Crash Zoom, a new podcast from Behind the Slate. Join entertainment journalist Sammie Purcell and filmmaker Aaron Strand as they explore the world of film and entertainment and how big picture changes affect the life and work of independent artists. On this episode we discuss:Disney Cuts Transgender Storyline from 'Win or Lose' (The Hollywood Reporter)ABC's Trump Settlement (CNN)Ethical AI (Variety)Network TV is back! (Vulture)Barry Jenkins' Mufasa and the plight of the American Auteur (Vulture)You can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie on SubstackYou can check out Aaron's work:@strandedonstage@withdrawalfilmEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@crashzoompodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

IN 3 WEEKS CRASH ZOOM WILL BE MOVING EXCLUSIVELY TO OUR OWN PODCAST FEED.SUBSCRIBE NOW TO NEVER MISS AN EPISODE.Apple PodcastsSpotifyWelcome to Crash Zoom, a new podcast from Behind the Slate. Join entertainment journalist Sammie Purcell and filmmaker Aaron Strand as they explore the world of film and entertainment and how big picture changes affect the life and work of independent artists. On this episode we discuss:Early Season Cancellations (The Wrap)Sundance 2025 (Deadline)Luca Guadagnino's 'American Psycho' (Variety)WGA Writes a Letter...so scary! (Variety)You can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie on SubstackYou can check out Aaron's work:@strandedonstage@withdrawalfilmEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@crashzoompodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Sergio Leone's 1967 film 'The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly'. Aaron gives an opening monologue giving a brief historical background of the filmmaker. After the screening, we open up the conversation for a lively audience discussion!Come see us for our next live show, January 23rd where we will be screening Agnes Varda's 1962 film 'Cleo from 5 to 7'Tickets hereEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Crash Zoom, a new podcast from Behind the Slate. Join entertainment journalist Sammie Purcell and filmmaker Aaron Strand as they explore the world of film and entertainment and how big picture changes affect the life and work of independent artists. On this debut episode we discuss:Brand Focused Content with Sugar23 and Fifth Season (Deadline)Legal Battle over AI Voice Over (Puck)Ben Mezrich Hacks Hollywood (Vulture)Diego Mariscal Holding on to Hollywood (The Wrap)Picturestart Shakeup (Puck)You can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie on SubstackYou can check out Aaron's work:@strandedonstage@withdrawalfilmEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@crashzoompodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Crash Zoom, a new podcast from Behind the Slate. Join entertainment journalist Sammie Purcell and filmmaker Aaron Strand as they explore the world of film and entertainment and how big picture changes affect the life and work of independent artists. On this debut episode we discuss:AI training on Hollywood (The Atlantic)Wicked Cellphone Vids (Variety)David Ehrlich review of 'Wicked' (Indiewire)Thanksgiving Box Office (Indiewire)Jeff Sagansky has Takes (Wrap)Lost John Ford Film Found! (Indiewire)You can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie on SubstackEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@behindtheslatepod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Crash Zoom, a new podcast from Behind the Slate. Join entertainment journalist Sammie Purcell and filmmaker Aaron Strand as they explore the world of film and entertainment and how big picture changes affect the life and work of independent artists. On this debut episode we discuss:A newly discovered Spec Script (The Hollywood Reporter)WBD's outsourced 'Capability Center' (Puck)Sebastian Stan needs a friend (Buzzfeed)Ben Affleck on AI (Youtube)Fallout from the CamerImage Sexism Scandal (The Hollywood Reporter)You can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie on SubstackEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@behindtheslatepod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Crash Zoom, a new podcast from Behind the Slate. Join entertainment journalist Sammie Purcell and filmmaker Aaron Strand as they explore the world of film and entertainment and how big picture changes affect the life and work of independent artists. On this debut episode we discuss:CW Layoffs (Deadline)Recent layoffs at the Academy film Archive (Indiewire)Trump Era M & A (The Hollywood Reporter)The Chrichton Estate vs The Pitt (Puck)Phoebe Waller-Bridge's latest project (Deadline)Come to Behind the Slate Live on November 20th at The Plaza Theatre in Atlanta GA for our special screening of John Flynn's 'Rolling Thunder'Get Tickets HereYou can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie on SubstackEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@behindtheslatepod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Crash Zoom, a new podcast from Behind the Slate. Join entertainment journalist Sammie Purcell and filmmaker Aaron Strand as they explore the world of film and entertainment and how big picture changes affect the life and work of independent artists. On this debut episode we discuss:An AI disclaimer at the end of 'Heretic' (From an article in Variety)A recent study about an untapped Indie Film Market (Check out the study here)A listing of Hollywood Salaries (From The Hollywood Reporter)The death of LA Film (From The Hollywood Reporter)And A24's ever increasing budgets (From Deadline)Come to Behind the Slate Live on November 20th at The Plaza Theatre in Atlanta GA for our special screening of John Flynn's 'Rolling Thunder'Get Tickets HereYou can check out Sammie's work:Rough Draft AtlantaSammie's recent interview with director Sean BakerSammie on SubstackEmail us: crashzoompod@gmail.comFollow us on IG and Tiktok@behindtheslatepod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Sergio Leone's 1967 film 'The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly'. Aaron gives an opening monologue giving a brief historical background of the filmmaker. After the screening, we open up the conversation for a lively audience discussion!Come see us for our next live show, November 20th where we will be screening John Flynn's 1977 film 'Rolling Thunder'Tickets: https://www.plazaatlanta.com/movie/behind-the-slate-rolling-thunderEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Aaron Strand discusses the problems facing indie film makers and the American film industry as a whole.Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Bob Rafelson's 1970 film 'Five Easy Pieces'. Aaron gives an opening monologue giving a brief historical background of the filmmaker. After the screening, we open up the conversation for a lively audience discussion!If you would like to join us for future live events, please visit plazaatlanta.com for tickets!Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Hiroshi Teshigahara's 1964 film 'Woman in the Dunes'. Aaron gives an opening monologue giving a brief historical background of the filmmaker. After the screening, we open up the conversation for a lively audience discussion!If you would like to join us for future live events, please visit plazaatlanta.com for tickets!Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys are back for another thrilling tournament pitting the greatest filmmakers of all time in a head-to-head pitch competition. Hop in the time machine and get ready to laugh, cry, and everything in between.Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastScene and Heard Podcast on Instagram: @sceneandheardpodProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Krzysztof Kieślowski's 1994 film 'Three Colours: White'. Aaron gives an opening monologue giving a brief historical background of the filmmaker. After the screening, we open up the conversation for a lively and delightful audience discussion!If you would like to join us for future live events, please visit plazaatlanta.com for tickets!Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Aaron Strand live at the historic Plaza Theatre in Atlanta, GA as he presents Akira Kurosawa's 1963 masterpiece 'High and Low' Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After 10 long months, countless rehearsals, meetings and podcasts...we have finally wrapped principal photography on 'Withdrawal'. Special guest host Shub Agrawal sits down with director, Aaron Strand, producer, Jonathan Walls, and assistant director Scout Smith to talk through the experience.Jonathan on IG: @jonathanwalls23Scout on IG: @scoutsmith__Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron sits down with Actor, Writer, Director, and pioneering Intimacy Coordinator, Kristina Arjona. Kristina gives a crash course on this relatively new role set job, and discusses the facts and misconceptions about the profession.Kristina's webpage: https://www.atlintimacycoordinator.com/aboutKristina on IG: @kristina.arjonaKristina's email: kristinaarjona.ic@gmail.comEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by world-renowned vocalist, Cécile McLorin Salvant. Cécile shares her incredible journey from casual singer to multi-time Grammy Award winner, how she coped with stage fright before singing 'America the Beautiful' at the US Open's Women's Tennis Final, and the importance of putting googly eyes on things. Cécile's webpage: https://www.cecilemclorinsalvant.com/Cécile on IG: @cecilemclorinsalvantCécile on TikTok: @cecilemclorinsalvantCécile on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6PkSULcbxFKkxdgrmPGAvn?autoplay=trueCécile on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4VmaBTjWjCkGvsliyIdGTAEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by actor, writer, musician and yoga teacher, Jeanne Heaton. Jeanne shares her incredible journey from a Pennsylvania steel town to the rough-and-tumble Lower East Side of the early 1980's. As her artistic career blossomed, so did her addiction, leading to a 19 year battle with heroin. Now, with nearly two decades sober, Jeanne has dedicated her life to recovery, art, and giving back to her community.One Posture at a Time on Instagram: @onepostureatatimeEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by special guest, Ben Golliver. In addition to working as the National NBA Writer for The Washington Post, Ben hosts a bi-weekly basketball podcast, 'Greatest of All Talk', where he and co-host Andrew Sharp talk hoops, life, and everything in between. Ben shares an incredible story of passion and perseverance that saw him transform from an uncertain college kid looking for a path to becoming a bestselling author and one of the most respected sports journalists working today.Read his work: www.washingtonpost.com/sportsGreatest of All Talk Podcast: https://greatestofalltalk.comBen on IG: @ben.golliverBen on X: @bengolliverBen on Threads: @ben.golliverEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron sits down with renowned film critic Sucharita Tyagi for a wide ranging discussion of Hindi Cinema, Film Criticism, and finding your path as an independent creator ARTIST.Sucharita on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sucharitatyagiSucharita on IG: @su4itaEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by filmmaker and co-host of the 'Scene and Heard' Podcast, Jacqueline Postajian to have a post-set debrief!Jackie on IG: @jacpostajScene and Heard on IG: @sceneandheardpodWithdrawal on IG: @withdrawalfilmEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are four days away from beginning production on 'Withdrawal'. A very tired Aaron Strand gives a brief update on the final weeks of pre-pro.Film Instagram: @withdrawalfilmEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by cinematographer Emily Marquet. Emily is serving as the Director of Photography on 'Withdrawal' and takes us through her long journey to finding her passion for camerawork, that included stops in NYU, Haiti, and London School of Film.Emily's Website: https://emilymarquet.myportfolio.com/workEmily's Instagram: @emilymarquetEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by Dr. Tracy Vettese, a internist at Grady Hospital in Atlanta who works with the Georgia Harm Reduction Coalition on the front lines of the opioid epidemic. Dr. Vettese takes us through her first hand account of the opioid epidemic and how she has responded to the growing crisis. She shares her message of hope and progress and gives a few suggestions of things to keep in mind as we work on 'Withdrawal'Harm Reduction resources:https://georgiaharmreduction.org/https://harmreduction.org/Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron shares several updates on the Withdrawal pre-production process and gives his thoughts on the film industry shut down.Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by filmmaker, and actor Brent Michal who plays the lead role of 'Jay' in Withdrawal. Brent talks about his journey from child actor to filmmaker back to acting again and shares the love of the process that keeps him going.Brent's Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/brentmichalEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by filmmaker, Evan McNary. In 2021, Evan released his debut feature film 'Ragged Heart' which was shot in Athens, GA. After scrapping and saving enough money to shoot the film himself, Evan used many unconventional filmmaking techniques to craft a unique and heartfelt story about father grieving for his daughter. He talks all about his process in making the film, sharing helpful tips and powerful insights about filmmaking and the current state of independent cinema. Film Website: https://www.raggedheartfilm.com/Evan on Instagram: @evanmckrispyEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Outside of the script, casting is the most part of the filmmaking process. Today, Aaron talks through the casting process for 'Withdrawal' and then speaks with lead actor, Millie Rose Evans. Millie is an actor and musician based in Atlanta, GA. She gives a step-by-step insight into her experience during the 'Withdrawal' casting process, providing valuable tips, and honest testimony.Follow Millie Rose Evans:Instagram: @millieroseevansSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ycgcLaB1PDQOxwG96U6No?si=_i7lsEPxRCWdoiutpkPssAFollow the film on IG: @withdrawalfilmEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by filmmaker, podcaster, blogger and all around Indie Film expert, Noam Kroll. Since 2012, Noam has created one of the greatest free resources available to filmmakers, www.noamkroll.com. Through reviews, tutorials, and first hand narratives, Noam provides everything you need to become a self taught filmmaker. Additionally he runs a podcast, 'Show Don't Tell' dedicated to micro-budget filmmaking, where he speaks to filmmakers from all over the world about their work and process. Finally, he is an acclaimed and daring filmmaker, shooting his recent film, 'Disappearing Boy' as a one-man crew.Noam's Blog: https://noamkroll.com/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/show-dont-tell-micro-budget-filmmaking/id1228448011Instagram: @noamkrollEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we get into the plot of our upcoming feature film 'Withdrawal'. Aaron discusses where the idea came from and how it evolved from an inspired thought to an actionable project, culminating in a 8-Point 'Upfront Aims Program' inspired by Melvin Van Peebles.Follow the film on IG: @withdrawalfilmEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, I introduce our new summer series, 'Withdrawal'. Unlike our previous historical deep dives, this series is going to go inside the production of a current film project... my own feature-film. I am currently in pre-production and won't have time to do my usual history research so instead I am going to be taking you step-by-step through my filmmaking process and whatever might happen along the way. We are going to be giving weekly production updates as well as in-depth interviews with the cast and crew. We will ALSO be bringing on a variety of independent artists, filmmakers, scholars and authors to talk about their creative processes, to gain insight and inspiration.To kick things off, I'm going to open up and share a little bit of my own story and how I got here. Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today Aaron is joined by actor, writer, producer and comedian. Jonathan has acted in shows like Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Broad City as well as commercials and feature films. He is an acclaimed writer working on shows like Grownish, and is currently developing a project with Ramy Youssef and Judd Apatow. He is the co-creator of the first all-black improv team at Upright Citizens Brigade theatre which went on to create the sketch comedy series Astronomy Club on Netflix (for which he was a co-star and co-writer). He is also the co-host of the podcast ‘Black Men Can't Jump (In Hollywood)' along with Jerah Milligan and James III…a podcast dedicated to promoting the cause of leading black actors in Hollywood.We discuss race and representation in Hollywood, the creation and development of the BMCJIH podcast, and how the show has evolved over the past seven years, and how it has affected Jonathan's work as a writer.Jonathan Braylock on Twitter: @jonbraylockJonathan Braylock on Instagram: @jonbraylockBlack Me Can't Jump (in Hollywood): @BlackmenpodcastEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by award winning director, Alfred Preisser. In 2006, Mr. Preisser directed the acclaimed 2006 revival of 'Ain't Supposed to Die a Natural Death', during which time he became close friends with Melvin Van Peebles. Preisser went on to act in Van Peebles' final film 'Confessions of an Ex-Dufus Itchyfooted Mutha' and work on the staged Opera of 'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song'. We are honored that Alfred took the time to speak to us about the time he spent with Melvin.Mr. Preisser's work has been recognized with The American Theatre Wing Award for Outstanding Artistic Achievement, The Drama Desk Award, The Edwin Booth Award, The Lucille Lortel Award, and two Obie Awards.Aflred Preisser: https://www.alfredpreisser.com/Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Melvin takes over Broadway only to see his midas touch leave him. Later in life he experiences a Renaissance as the first black trader on Wall Street and ages gracefully into one of the greatest elder statesmen in cinema history. Rest In Peace Melvin Van Peebles (8/21/32-9/21/21), one of the greatest artists of the 20th Century.Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastJoin our weekly film club: https://www.instagram.com/arroyofilmclubProducer: Greg KleinschmidtSources:'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song' by Melvin Van Peebles (1971)'How to Dismantle a [Theatric] Bomb: Broadway Flops, Broadway Money, and Musical Theater Historiography' by Dr. Elizabeth Wollman (May, 2020'2008 Interview with Red Bull Music Academy': https://www.redbullmusicacademy.com/lectures/melvin-van-peebles-dont-write-a-check-your-ass-cant-cash'Unstoppable: Melvin Van Peebles, Gordon Parks, and Ossie Davis in Conversation': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHuW5bxVamgVisionary Project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeRJLgAbW-4&list=PLCwE4GdJdVRLS1R8f9-G8hihJQKmePpCW&t=116'How To Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (And Enjoy It)' (2005) Dir. Joe AngioBlack Arts/West History by Douglas Q Barnett: https://www.historylink.org/File/3523Paul Carter Harrison Archives: Emory University Rose Reading Room'Le Fete a Harlem' Program Archive: https://data.bnf.fr/fr/39467577/fete_a_harlem_spectacle_1964/1972 Tony Awards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weVm6vn7SOgMario Van Peebles/Melvin Van Peebles interview with Charlie Rose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9N3D7ZzjkY&t=996sJune 6th 1972 Episode of Black Journal: https://www.criterionchannel.com/don-t-play-us-cheap/videos/melvin-van-peebles-on-black-journal-2NYT 'The Boadasssss Success' (1972): https://www.nytimes.com/1972/08/20/archives/the-baadasssss-success-of-melvin-van-peebles-van-peebles-counting.html?searchResultPosition=76NYT 'Melvin Van Prolific' (1972): https://www.nytimes.com/1972/05/28/archives/melvin-van-prolific-melvin-van-prolific.html?searchResultPosition=15NYT Review of 'Waltz of the Stork' (1982): https://www.nytimes.com/1982/01/06/theater/stage-waltz-of-van-peebles-opens.html?searchResultPosition=13'Making Do the Right Thing' Dir St. Clair Bourne: https://archive.org/details/making-do-the-right-thing'Classified X' Dir. Melvin Van Peebles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOfwnPJtHJMJoshie Jo Armstead Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMcWYsDOm8M'Melvin Van Peebles The Real Deal': https://www.criterionchannel.com/videos/melvin-van-peebles-on-sweet-sweetback-s-baadasssss-song-2002 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aaron is joined by Millie De Chirico, co-host of the podcast 'I Saw What You Did' and co-author of the book 'TCM Underground: 50 Must-See Films from the World of Classic Cult and Late-Night Cinema'. We talk about five films featured in the book that challenge the preconceived notions of Blaxploitation. We then dive in to our mutual loves: cinema and basketball...to find the common ground between all time great directors and all-time great hoopers. TCM Underground: 50 Must-See Films from the World of Classic Cult and Late-Night Cinema:https://bookshop.org/p/books/tcm-underground-50-must-see-films-from-the-world-of-classic-cult-and-late-night-cinema-millie-de-chirico/18255384?ean=9780762480005Millie De Chirico on Twitter: @milliedechiricoMillie De Chirico on Instagram: @debbie_countryI Saw What You Did on Instagram/Twitter: @IsawPodEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you watched 'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song' and need to talk about it? We feel you.That's why Aaron is once again joined by Dr. Amy Abugo Ongiri, film historian, Director of Ethnic Studies at the University of Portland, and author of the book: “Spectacular Blackness: The Cultural Politics of the Black Power Movement and the Search for a Black Aesthetic". Join us as we talk about Sweetback, how it related to the Black Power and Black Art Movements, and it's legacy on both Blaxploitation and black representation to this day!Amy Ongiri on Instagram: @daughterofthedustEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Melvin flips Hollywood the middle-finger setting out to make his own independent movie, at a time when it was considered borderline impossible. What followed was one of the wildest stories in film history as Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song survives on-set madness and impossible odds to become one of the most successful films of the decade.Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastJoin our weekly film club: https://www.instagram.com/arroyofilmclubProducer: Greg KleinschmidtSources:'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song' by Melvin Van Peebles (1971)'2008 Interview with Red Bull Music Academy': https://www.redbullmusicacademy.com/lectures/melvin-van-peebles-dont-write-a-check-your-ass-cant-cash'Unstoppable: Melvin Van Peebles, Gordon Parks, and Ossie Davis in Conversation': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHuW5bxVamg'Interview with Olumide Productions': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRn9nr5qXOgMarlon Brando Eulogy for Bobby Hutton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g05Sb9CcnEInterview with Reelin In the Years: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B48FJ03-tkUVisionary Project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeRJLgAbW-4&list=PLCwE4GdJdVRLS1R8f9-G8hihJQKmePpCW&t=116s'How To Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (And Enjoy It)' (2005) Dir. Joe Angio'SUBVERTING HOLLYWOOD FROM THE INSIDE OUT' by Racquel Gates: https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1525/fq.2014.68.1.9 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh off his triumphant homecoming at the 1967 San Francisco International Film Festival, Melvin Van Peebles finds himself in a very different America than the one he left in 1959. There are protests against the Vietnam war, a growing counter culture culminating in the ‘Summer of Love', and The Civil Rights Movement evolving into cries of Black Power. Soaking up this chaos like a sponge, Melvin combines global politics, street conversations, and his favorite 1880's French Singer to create the worlds first hip-hop album, ‘Brer Soul'. From there, he goes to Hollywood for his first and only studio film, ‘Watermelon Man'. Facing oppressive studio oversight, Melvin uses every trick at his disposal to subvert Hollywood's racist pass from the inside out.Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastJoin our weekly film club: https://www.instagram.com/arroyofilmclubProducer: Greg KleinschmidtSources:'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song' by Melvin Van Peebles (1971)'2008 Interview with Red Bull Music Academy': https://www.redbullmusicacademy.com/lectures/melvin-van-peebles-dont-write-a-check-your-ass-cant-cash'Unstoppable: Melvin Van Peebles, Gordon Parks, and Ossie Davis in Conversation': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHuW5bxVamg'Interview with Olumide Productions': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRn9nr5qXOgMarlon Brando Eulogy for Bobby Hutton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g05Sb9CcnEInterview with Reelin In the Years: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B48FJ03-tkUVisionary Project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeRJLgAbW-4&list=PLCwE4GdJdVRLS1R8f9-G8hihJQKmePpCW&t=116s'How To Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (And Enjoy It)' (2005) Dir. Joe Angio'SUBVERTING HOLLYWOOD FROM THE INSIDE OUT' by Racquel Gates: https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1525/fq.2014.68.1.9 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Aaron is joined by Dr. Amy Abugo Ongiri, film historian, Director of Ethnic Studies at the University of Portland, and author of the book: “Spectacular Blackness: The Cultural Politics of the Black Power Movement and the Search for a Black Aesthetic".Dr. Ongiri talks to us about this shift from Civil Rights to Black Power, how The Black Panther Party effectively used the media to spread their message, and how the Black Arts Movement sought to define a distinctly black aesthetic. All of these forces would greatly affect Melvin Van Peebles during his most creative years from 1968-1971.Amy Ongiri on Instagram: @daughterofthedustEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastProducer: Greg Kleinschmidt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am hard at work prepping the next installment of the Melvin Van Peebles history series. In the meantime, I wanted to take a moment to talk about the release schedule moving forward as well as reflecting on how this show has evolved beyond just a history podcast and how that will continue to shape the show going forward!If you have any thoughts or questions, please email me at behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Aaron is joined by Christopher Sieving a professor of film at the University of Georgia, Athens. His latest book is titled ‘Pleading the Blood: Bill Gunn's Ganja and Hess' which I cannot wait to read, so please, if you're a ‘Ganja and Hess' fan, or just want to learn more about this amazing film, go buy that out. But his first book, and the subject for today's podcast, is titled ‘Soul Searching: Black Themed Cinema From the march on Washington to the Rise of Blaxploitation'.Chris takes us through the turbulent years of 1961-1968 when the Civil Rights Movement filled TV screens but is strangely absent from American Cinema. We talk about the underwhelming adaptation of Lorraine Hansberry's 'A Raisin in the Sun', Ossie Davis' failed independent production 'Gone are the Days', Shirley Clarke's 'The Cool World', and the cancelled prestige project 'The Confessions of Nat Turner'.Christopher Sieving Twitter: @soulburger26Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Aaron is joined by visionary entrepreneur, cinephile and theatre owner, Christopher Escobar. Chris serves as the Executive Director of the Atlanta Film Society, the non-profit group that runs the Atlanta Film Festival. He is also the owner of the famed Plaza Theatre, Atlanta's oldest continuously operating theatre, and the new owner of The Tara theatre, another of Atlanta's great historic movie palaces.Chris shares how he came to be the proud owner of not one but two historic theatres, and explains why he's buying in when so many in the industry are proclaiming 'the death of cinema'. He shares the true value of the in-person cinematic experience and why it may attract ghosts. Finally, he gives a preview of the upcoming 47th Atlanta Film Festival (April 20-30th ,2023) and how Atlanta manages to balance grass-roots community with Academy Award Qualifying glamour. The Tara Theatre is currently raising funds to help in their reopening effort please donate or buy ticket vouchers at www.taraatlanta.comTara Theatre IG: @thetaraatlantaPlaza Theatre IG: @plazaatlantaAtlanta Film Festival IG: @atlantafilmfestivalAtlanta Film Society IG: @atlfilmsocietyEmail us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we meet Melvin Van Peebles, a small but brilliant boy who grows up split between the rough South Side of Chicago and the nearby suburb of Phoenix, Illinois. A brilliant student, he graduates from high school at the age of fifteen, becomes the first person in his family to go to college. By the time he's 26, he's a veteran officer of the Air Force, a father, a husband in an interracial marriage, and a Gripman on a San Francisco Cable Car. After writing a moderately successful book titled 'The Big Heart', Melvin gets bit by the cinema bug and decides to become a filmmaker...little did he know that it would take him ten years and moving to another continent in order to get one made!Email us: behindtheslatepod@gmail.comInstagram: @behindtheslatepodTikTok: @behindtheslatepodYouTube: @behindtheslatepodcastJoin our weekly film club: https://www.instagram.com/arroyofilmclubProducer: Greg KleinschmidtSources: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.