Feeling Seen

With the recent premier of Shadow Force (starring Kerry Washington and Omar Sy), writer Leon Chills has seen one of the most daunting choices of his life payoff.  That choice echoed the inciting incident of one of Leon's favorite films, The Matrix. As he delves into this modern classic with Jordan, Leon shares his experience of finally realizing his creative dreams and looking toward the challenges ahead (which hopefully won't involve too much fighting with machines...but who can say?).Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the upcoming Danielle Deadwyler post-apocalyptic thriller 40 Acres.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Leon Chills Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

If you were alive when Fried Green Tomatoes came out -- first Fannie Flagg's book, then the movie -- you may recall it was a phenomenon. To a (very) young Ali Clayton, it was a bit of a personal phenomenon, its only-kinda-coded queerness calling out to her before she even knew why. But beyond that, it was a movie about Southern women in a South that Ali recognized -- one where bad things can happen, but good people are holding each other up through it all.Then Jordan has one quick thing about last weekend's big win for cinemas & cinemagoing.Listen to Y'all Gay?Check out Country Queer***With Jordan Crucchiola and Ali Clayton Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Long before becoming an award-winning educator, public speaker, and podcaster (of BFF: Black, Fat, Femme), Dr. Jonathan P. Higgins (aka Doctor Jon Paul) was just a kid sneaking movies while mom was at work. One of those films, 1993's This Boy's Life, became one of their favorites. That was in large part thanks to the aspirational friendship of main character Tobias "Jack" Wolff (Leonardo DiCaprio) and the closeted but undeniable Arthur Gayle. Doctor Jon Paul and Jordan discuss the film, the new book Black. Fat. Femme: Revealing the Power of Visibly Queer Voices in Media and Learning to Love Yourself, and transformational power of intersectional friendship and storytelling.Speaking of intersectional storytelling, Jordan has one quick thing about the new Ryan Coogler heater, SINNERS.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Dr Jon Paul Higgins Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Lex Scott Davis is currently starring as Erica alongside Stephen Amell on NBC's Sunday night drama, Suits LA - which, as the name suggests brings the concept of the hugely popular show Suits to Los Angeles. Lex herself made the journey to Los Angeles as a risky, dream-chasing step in her performing arts career. And that career arguably started at a dance studio in Baltimore when Lex was just a kid. Which brings us to the Millennial classic CENTER STAGE, and Zoe Saldana's feisty and scary-talented character, Eva Rodriguez.Lex and Jordan get into CENTER STAGE, Lex's Suits LA story, and the ups and downs of chasing after difficult dreams. Then Jordan has one quick thing about the newly announced Best Stunts category at the Academy Awards. [Cue huge, celebratory explosion]Vulture's 2025 Stunt Awards***With Jordan Crucchiola and Lex Scott Davis Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

From booking her first audition (as a kid, for beloved cult classic DONNIE DARKO) to being Kevin Bacon's literal boss-from-hell in the new Amazon series THE BONDSMAN, Jolene Purdy has had a full career on screens of all sizes. She talks with Jordan about the challenges of being an "outside the box" casting choice, the importance of staying true to yourself, and the unlikely allure of the most charming John Waters adaptation Broadway could dream up.Then, one quick thing about the latest entry in France's answer to the Fast/Furious franchise, The Lost Bullet 3.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Jolene Purdy Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

This episode originally aired in September of 2024.Comedian and actor Chris Grace has starred in NBC's Superstore, PEN15, and Broad City. Now he takes to the stage as one of the world's most famous actresses in his new comedy special on Dropout, Chris Grace as Scarlett Johansson. Chris graces our mics to talk about the special AND how he felt seen in the 1993 ensemble-driven drama, THE JOY LUCK CLUB. We get into a heartfelt conversation on Asian-American representation in cinema, the incomparable talent of Rosalind Chao,  and Chris answers the question: Am I a good person?Then Jordan has one quick thing about Ryan Coogler's forthcoming vampiric horror film Sinners. Michael B. Jordan, Michael B. Jordan again, and the gritty Hailee Steinfeld. ***With Jordan Crucchiola and Chris Grace. Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Peppermint is a multifaceted artist, all-around entertainer, and a self-proclaimed horror movie buff. She is no stranger to the stage or screen, having appeared in the Go-Go's-inspired Broadway musical Head Over Heels and as a frontrunner on RuPaul's Drag Race.Peppermint is back on your TV screen starring alongside Michelle Buteau, Tasha Smith, and Garcelle Beauvais in Survival of the Thickest, a Netflix comedy series that you will surely love. Its second season just premiered and you can stream it right now.Peppermint joins us to talk about Survival of the Thickest, her very personal audition process for the show, and some questionable camp/incredibly campy horror films: Sleepaway Camp and Return of the Living Dead. Plus, praise for the women of Clue, A Soldier's Girl, and Hollywood! That's Meshach Taylor as Hollywood in the 80s classic Mannequin. Don't move a muscle! This episode is certified fresh.  MaxFunDrive ends on March 28, 2025! Support our show now and get access to bonus content by becoming a member at maximumfun.org/join.Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Margaret Cho is an undeniable legend: a comedian with over three decades in the game, a trailblazing Emmy-nominated actor, a badass Grammy-nominated musician, and an LGBTQ+ icon. Margaret is out on her Live & Livid standup comedy tour and just released a new studio album Lucky Gift. It's an awesome album influenced by sounds from the 60s and 90s that you can stream right now. Margaret joins Feeling Seen to talk her new album, performing standup comedy in the current state of the world, and takes a walk down memory lane. You'll hear about the time Margaret saved Cyndi Lauper from a wardrobe malfunction at Red Rock, how Janeane Garofalo forced Margaret to move to Los Angeles, and Margaret's expertise as the world's leading figurehead on Sandra Bernhard. Plus, Margaret boards the tour bus to discuss Kate Hudson's portrayal of Penny Lane in the 2000 comedy drama film Almost Famous. Muses, music, and more!For LA locals: Margaret Cho at the Grammy Museum on Tuesday, April 1st for a special performance and conversation about her new album.  MaxFunDrive ends on March 28, 2025! Support our show now and get access to bonus content by becoming a member at maximumfun.org/join.Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

It's MaxFunDrive and we are giving you a peak behind the curtain. We're serving you up a bonus episode with one of the producers of this show: Daniel Huecias. Jordan and Daniel discuss two of the gayest films in cinematic history: X-Men and X-2. Our first entries into the Canonically Queer Foyer! Mutants, the Master of Magnetism, and a teleporting blue devil in the form of an insanely handsome Alan Cumming. Plus, a game inspired by America's FIRST top model Tyra Banks.You wanna be on top? Become a member of Maximum Fun and get into the full episode right now!  MaxFunDrive ends on March 28, 2025! Support our show now and get access to bonus content by becoming a member at maximumfun.org/join.Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun.Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

For the past ten years, Dan Berk and Bobby Olsen have teamed up to bring you some amazing films. You may have seen their directorial debut Body, their black comedy horror Villains, or the science fiction thriller Significant Other. Their most recent collaboration is Novocaine, starring Jack Quaid as Nathan Caine, a mild-mannered introvert with a rare disorder, congenital insensitivity to pain (CIP), who must rescue the girl of his dreams who has been taken hostage in a bank robbery. The film is action-packed with an incredible cast: Quaid, Amber Midthunder, and Ray Nicholson. It's in theaters right now.Dan & Bobby join us to talk about Novocaine, the movie posters that graced their college dorm, and the alien Station from Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey. Plus, praise for practical effects and the enduring charm of Jack Quaid. Then, Jordan turns the page to talk about journalist Emily St. James' new book Woodworking. It's a beautiful coming-of-age story that you must read.  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Paul W.S. Anderson has directed some of the most iconic films in genre cinema: Mortal Kombat, the infinitely terrifying Event Horizon, and the British crime drama Shopping, a "reckless orgy of destruction" on screen. Paul has also directed and produced the Resident Evil series with six films spanning nearly 15 years alongside his wife and frequent collaborator Milla Jovovich.  Paul's most recent film brings to life the work of author George R. R. Martin. It's called In the Lost Lands and it's in theaters right now! The film stars Jovovich alongside Dave Bautista as a witch and a hunter who journey into a dangerous landscape.Paul joins Feeling Seen to talk about the film, his early years as a British director in Hollywood, and the persistent fanfare surrounding Resident Evil. Plus, we get into the 1985 coming-of-age film St. Elmo's Fire and MARKER! A potential film showcasing Sharpies.Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the science fiction thriller series Paradise on Hulu. Sterling K. Brown, our personal savior in this post-apocalyptic political hellscape.  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Shea Whigham is an all-star actor with more credits to his name than we can mention. You may have seen him in Take Shelter, Silver Linings Playbook, American Hustle, Boardwalk Empire, Lake George, The Righteous Gemstones, or Mission: Impossible–Dead Reckoning. Shea recently starred in the western miniseries American Primeval, alongside the incredible Betty Gilpin and Taylor Kitsch. The miniseries was created and written by Mark L. Smith and directed by Peter Berg. You can stream it right now on NETFLIX. Shea joins Feeling Seen to talk about American Primeval, his character Jim Bridger, and Robert DuVall's performance as Mac Sledge in the 1983 drama Tender Mercies. Plus, words of wisdom by Meryl Streep and praise for the eternal talent of Ellen Barkin. Then Jordan honors the legacy of actress Michelle Tratchtenberg, who recently passed at the age of 39.  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

RaMell Ross is a multi time Academy-Award nominee in documentary and narrative, a filmmaker, photographer, academic, and writer. You may have seen his directorial debut Hale County This Morning, This Evening, an experimental documentary about black life in Hale County, Alabama. RaMell's most recent directorial work is the historical drama Nickel Boys, based on the novel of the same name by Colson Whitehead. It's nominated for Best Picture at this year's Academy Awards and RaMell Ross and co-writer Joslyn Barnes are both nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay. You can stream the film at home or watch in theaters right now.RaMell joins Feeling Seen to talk about the film, cultural criticism, and the 1992 biographical drama Malcolm X, directed by Spike Lee. Plus, notes on basketball, Bart Simpson, and Black feminist author Bell Hooks. Then Jordan has one quick thing about season 3 of the action series Reacher. God bless Alan Ritchson! We can't help but stan the man.  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Sophie Thatcher is a multifaceted star on the rise. You may have seen her last year in Heretic, opposite Hugh Grant and Chloe East, or in the Disney+ miniseries The Book of Boba Fett. Sophie also plays “Natalie” in the delicious TV series Yellowjackets on SHOWTIME. Its third season premieres on Valentine's Day.Most recently, Sophie stars in Companion alongside Jack Quaid. It's a science fiction, robot thriller that you can see in theaters right now. Sophie joins Feeling Seen to discuss Companion, her love for karaoke, and the 1972 musical Cabaret! Sophie talks about the time she auditioned for the role of Sally Bowles and the time she performed Cabaret for a school talent show. Plus, we get into Sophie's 2024 EP, Pivot & Scrape and the 90s gem that is My So-Called Life.Then Jordan has one quick thing about Prime Video's upcoming political action film G20, starring EGOT title holder Viola Davis as an ass-kicking President of the United States. We can dream! Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

This week, we're throwing it back to one of our favorite interviews! When writer/director Justin Simien (Dear White People, Haunted Mansion) first saw William Greaves' groundbreaking 1968 film, Symbiopsychotaxiplasm: Take One. He was mad. Not about the film's avant-garde style (part fiction, part documentary, part  performance art) but about the fact that he hadn't seen it sooner -- it might've saved him a lot of trouble as he found his way in a challenging, second-guessing industry. Now Justin is introducing more people to the contributions to cinema made by Black creatives like Greaves, through his series Hollywood Black, now streaming from MGM+.Then Jordan has one quick thing about the politics of horror! It's a terrifyingly good take.  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Traci Thomas is the creator and host of the critically acclaimed literary podcast The Stacks, where Traci chats with an array of guests about the books we love and loathe, the impact reading has on our lives, and the way the written word shapes culture. This week, creative mediums collide and find common ground. Traci joins Feeling Seen to talk historical fictions, unlikeable female characters, and Vivien Leigh's portrayal of the tenacious Scarlett O'Hara in the 1939 historical romance drama Gone with the Wind. Plus, Traci and Jordan take to the stars to boast about their respective astrological signs. Can Leo season come any sooner?Then, Jordan has one quick thing about  Companion. A new trailer for the film brings a new twist!You can keep up with Traci's words and writings on her Substack, Unstacked.Sarah Churchwell's The Wrath to Come: Gone with the Wind and the Lies America Tells. Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Chris Sullivan is veteran actor of the stage and screen. You may know him as Toby Damon from the Emmy-nominated NBC drama This Is Us, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, or the Cinemax medical drama The Knick, directed by Steven Soderbergh. Chris reunites with Soderbergh in his newest project Presence. It's a supernatural horror film centered on a family who moves into a new home BUT they aren't alone. Chris stars alongside the incomparable Lucy Liu and newcomers Eddy Maday and Callina Liang in this grippingly innovative film. It's in theaters right now.Chris joins Feeling Seen to talk about Presence, his very own This Is Us podcast (That Was Us), and the 1985 adventure film The Goonies. Goonies never say die! Neither do we!Then, Jordan hedges her bets on Demi Moore to take home the Oscar for Best Actress for The Substance. We're manifesting hard over here! If you or anyone you know has been impacted by the fires in Los Angeles, Mutual Aid LA Network (MALAN) has created a non-exhaustive list of resources available for those in need. As mentioned in the episode, World Central Kitchen is offering free meals to first responders of the fires here in Southern California. You can find a list of meal distribution sites here.  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Shea Serrano's writing credits run deep. He's written for publications like The Ringer and Grantland. He's also penned several books: The Rap Year Book, Basketball (and Other Things) and Movies (and Other Things). He's also written, created, and directed projects like the film Miguel Wants to Fight, the Freevee sitcom Primo, and the Netflix series Neon. His most recent project is a book titled Werewolf Lawyer – A Thomas Atwell Legal Thriller. It's a story about a lawyer who has to defend a werewolf accused of murdering his human wife. All of the evidence points toward the werewolf's guilt. But he swears he didn't do it!  It's a production of HALFWAY BOOKS, a digital publishing company created by Serrano. You can unravel the mystery here.Shea joins Feeling Seen to talk about Werewolf Lawyer, Vanilla Ice on the silver screen, and his extensive VHS collection. You name it, he's got it! Plus, we get into the 1998 poker drama Rounders with Matt Damon, at his most chiseled, as Mike McDermott. Then Jordan has one quick thing about Sebastian Stan's incredible performance in The Apprentice. A performance we can't help but stan!  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

Kate Gersten has written for numerous award-winning series including Prime Video's Mozart in the Jungle, NBC's The Good Place, and Apple TV+'s Schmigadoon!. She just made her feature debut with The Last Showgirl, a film whose screenplay she adapted from her original play Body of Work. The film stars Pamela Anderson as Shelly, a glamorous showgirl who must plan for her future when her show abruptly closes after a 30-year run. It's a beautifully poignant film that's received an incredible amount of acclaim. The Last Showgirl is in theaters now. Kate Gersten glides into Feeling Seen to talk about the film and has the time of her life moving her way through the iconic 80s film Dirty Dancing, sharing her love for Jennifer Grey as Frances "Baby" Houseman. Plus, Jordan has one quick thing about the fires impacting Los Angeles. You can look to Cal Fire for updates or download the Watch Duty app to your devices. If you or anyone you know is in search of aid, Mutual Aid LA Network (MALAN) has created a non-exhaustive list of resources available for those in need.  Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production Maximum Fun. Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

As we all emerge from our holiday slumber, we are turning back the clock to one of our favorite interviews from 2024. Whether he's starring in major movies like ELEMENTAL or JURASSIC WORLD DOMINION, or sinking his teeth into roles like Yorgos Lanthimos' KINDS OF KINDNESS, actor Mamoudou Athie follows his gut and ignores the algorithms. When Dev Patel's directorial debut, MONKEY MAN hit theaters, Mamoudou found new depths of admiration for Patel as an actor and director — and he also found a character he could deeply relate to in the determined Bobby/The Kid. It's an amazing conversation. So good, we had to play it twice!Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the January slate of films just around the corner.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Mamoudou Athie

You may have seen Boyd Holbrook in Logan, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, or The Bikeriders. Most recently, Boyd stars in the new film A Complete Unknown, a biographical drama centering the legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan portrayed by Timothee Chalamet.  Boyd plays the “Man in Black” himself, the iconic country singer Johnny Cash. It's in theaters just in time for the holiday! Boyd joins Feeling Seen to talk about the path that led him to becoming an actor, a failed basketball scholarship and the UPS Earn and Learn program, finding his community in film, and so much more. Plus, Jordan and Boyd touch base on the 1989 sports comedy Major League. It's a real homerun!Then Jordan notes Spy Kids' induction into the National Film Registry for Preservation, along with 24 other cinematic stories. Revisit our episode with director Jordan Santacana talking about the film here. Feeling Seen is on Bluesky! Give us a follow there.With Jordan Crucchiola and Boyd Holbrook. 

Dan Rubinstein is a decorated journalist and editor with over 20 years in the world of design, having contributed to The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Air Mail, Architectural Digest, and L'Officiel. Dan currently hosts ‘The Grand Tourist' podcast, a journey through the worlds of fashion, interior design, art, food, and travel with interviews from some of its leading tastemakers like Daphne Guinness and  THE PATTI LUPONE!  This time around, Dan is in the interview chair. He joins Feeling Seen to talk about the 1986 coming-of-age drama Stand by Me, discussing manhood and HBO in the 80s. Plus, Dan and Jordan workshop a queer sequel to the film. Then Jordan dons a Santa suit to give you some holiday reading recommendations from former Feeling Seen guests:Manuel Betancourt's Hello Stranger: Musings on Modern IntimaciesAnna Bogutskaya's Feeding the Monster: Why horror has a hold on usKyle Turner's The Queer Film Guide: 100 Great Movies That Tell Lgbtqia+ Storiesand Amy Nicholson's work at the LA Times. Feeling Seen is on Bluesky! Give us a follow there.With Jordan Crucchiola and Dan Rubinstein. 

Dana Ledoux Miller has written on television shows like Netflix's Narcos and Thai Cave Rescue, ABC's Designated Survivor, and Kevin Can F*** Himself. Dana is also the co-founder of Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti (PEAK), an initiative aiming to redefine and expand Pasifika entertainment. More recently, Dana has co-written/directed one of the biggest films of the year: Moana 2. She joins Feeling Seen to discuss the monumental success of the movie, building up her community, and how she first felt seen by the wayfinding voyager, MOANA. Then Jordan has one quick thing about the Sundance Film Festival. The fest's 2025 Program Guide just dropped. Check it out here!Feeling Seen is now on Bluesky! Give us a follow there.With Jordan Crucchiola and Dana Ledoux Miller. 

Steven C. Miller is a filmmaker of some of the most action-packed films in recent times. He's directed films like Silent Night, Extraction, Line of Duty, and so many others, starring genre titans like Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, and Nicolas Cage. His latest film stars Frank Grillo in a horror thriller alongside Lou Diamond Phillips and Katrina Law. It's called Werewolves and it's in theaters now! Steven joins Feeling Seen to talk about the film, the unicorn-like quality of werewolf movies, and the 1985 science fiction film BACK TO THE FUTURE. Plus, a chance encounter with director Quentin Tarantino. Then, Jordan has one quick thing about Betty Gilpin. From the screen, the wrestling ring, and now to the STAGE! ***With Jordan Crucchiola and Steven C. Miller. 

This interview (with a different "One Quick Thing" segment) originally aired in September of 2022.We're off to the see the Wizard with this REPLAY! At 62, Doug Jones is as busy as ever, playing The Baron on FX's What We Do in the Shadows, Saru on Star Trek: Discovery, and returning to the role of Billy Butcherson in Hocus Pocus 2. But you might be most familiar with Doug for his singular roles in heavy prosthetics -- as Abe Sapien in Hellboy and Hellboy II, as The Amphibian Man in The Shape of Water; as Pan and the Pale Man in Pan's Labyrinth. Doug's physical presence -- once something he'd have wished away -- is a huge part of what has made his performances so rich and memorable.  And one early source of inspiration and identification was Ray Bolger's Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the terrifying Art the Clown.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Doug Jones.

Jordan Santacana is  a writer and director of action films and westerns. He has directed multiple shorts this year: 4 Graves for Ximena, entirely shot on film, and Trapo Sucio: A Mofongo Western, which took home Best Action Short at this year's LUSCA film fest. This week, Jordan joins Feeling Seen to talk about music scores, westerns, and Robert Rodriguez's 2001 action film SPY KIDS.Then, cross your heart because Jordan has one quick thing about the crime thriller television series Cross. It's streaming now on Prime Video, action-packed!***With Jordan Crucchiola and Jordan Santacana.

As an actor and musician, Alex Wolff is anything but ordinary. You may have seen Alex in films like, Hereditary, Oppenheimer, or A Quiet Place: Day One. You might have also heard his music with his sibling, Nat & Alex Wolff; the brothers are currently on tour with Billie Eilish. Alex stars alongside a stacked ensemble cast (Halle Bailey, Angus Cloud, John Malkovich) in the new film The Line.  It's campus thriller that plunges into the dangerous world of college fraternities and blind adherence to tradition. This week, Alex joins Feeling Seen to talk about The Line AND the 1980 drama film ORDINARY PEOPLE, starring Timothy Hutton and Mary Tyler Moore. It's an amazing interview with love for film at its core. TW: Our conversation  surrounding Ordinary People includes discussion around suicide and self harm.Then, for the love of all things holy, Jordan has one quick thing about the mystery thriller Conclave. Ralph Fiennes. Stanley Tucci. John Lithgow. Isabella Rossellini! It's Gossip Girl meets the Vatican.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Alex Wolff. 

Cory McCullough is a rising star in horror. They run a killer blog (gorycory.net) and just produced a feature film. It's called Welcome Week: A College Horror Anthology. College alone can be frightening but add a relentless masked killer to the mix and it's a REAL nightmare. This week, Cory joins Feeling Seen to talk about their work AND an array of characters from films that span genre. Cory talks SCREAM on MTV, THE ADVENTURES OF SHARKBOY AND LAVAGIRL, and ELVIRA: THE MISTRESS OF THE DARK. Plus, we define the modern classics of horror and carve out this generation's final girls. Then Jordan honors the late comedy legend Teri Garr. Terri starred alongside other comedic greats in films like Tootsie, Mr. Mom, and Young Frankenstein. She passed on October 29, 2024.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Cory McCullough. 

Heather Graham is an absolute icon in film and television with countless credits to her name. You may know Heather from License to Drive, Boogie Nights, or her 2018 directorial debut Half Magic. Recently, Heather wrote, directed, and starred in the comedy film Chosen Family. She plays Ann, a yoga teacher struggling to achieve inner peace despite the fact her family is driving her crazy and her dating life is less than zen. This week, Heather joins Feeling Seen to talk about the film, friendship, AND how she feels seen by Ruth Gordon's spunky septuagenarian in the 1971 black comedy HAROLD AND MAUDE.Then Jordan has one quick thing about Smile 2! Pop stars and evil entities, oh my!***With Jordan Crucchiola and Heather Graham. 

You may know Brian Jordan Alvarez from the killer horror film M3GAN or from his web series The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo. Most recently, Brian created and stars in the FX comedy series English Teacher, a refreshingly hilarious original that follows a high school teacher navigating personal and professional life in Texas. It's critically acclaimed and canonically GAY! This week, Brian schools us on the series AND talks about the work of filmmakers that inspire him, including Pedro Almodóvar's  ALL ABOUT MY MOTHER.  Plus, one deep cut of Brian's viral internet spiritualist, the one and only Marnie T. Then Jordan has one quick thing about Timo Tjahjanto's  newest action film The Shadow Strays. It's out today on Netflix!***With Jordan Crucchiola and Brian Jordan Alvarez.

Tim Leong's creative direction and design is some of the best of our time, featuring icons across industries on the covers of magazines. He is also an author, penning a series of Super Graphics that guide you through various comic book universes and Star Wars. His most recent book is the Marvel Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Marvel Comics Universe. The book explores 85 years of Marvel comics history through pie charts, scatter plots, timelines, and story arc guides. It's out now! Tim talks about how he first fell in love with comics AND how he feels seen by a farmer turned NASA pilot in Christopher Nolan's sci-fi epic INTERSTELLAR. Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the prehistoric titan Godzilla! 70 years in film and still timeless.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Tim Leong.

Rhona Mitra is known for her countless roles in film and television. Underworld: Rise of the Lycans, Boston Legal, The Last Ship. Rhona stars in the new film Hounds of War, an action-packed revenge story that's streaming right now. This week, Rhona tunes in #TrulyOffGrid to talk about the film AND how she feels seen by the headstrong lead of the British epic period drama FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD. From Rhona's former life in Los Angeles to the divine intervention of one such horse, this conversation is certified fresh! Then, buddy up with us because Jordan has one quick thing about the upcoming horror thriller Companion. The heat is on with this one!***With Jordan Crucchiola and Rhona Mitra.

Comedian and actor Chris Grace has starred in NBC's Superstore, PEN15, and Broad City. Now he takes to the stage as one of the world's most famous actresses in his new comedy special on Dropout, Chris Grace as Scarlett Johansson. Chris graces our mics to talk about the special AND how he felt seen in the 1993 ensemble-driven drama, THE JOY LUCK CLUB. We get into a heartfelt conversation on Asian-American representation in cinema, the incomparable talent of Rosalind Chao,  and Chris answers the question: Am I a good person?Then Jordan has one quick thing about Ryan Coogler's forthcoming vampiric horror film Sinners. Michael B. Jordan, Michael B. Jordan again, and the gritty Hailee Steinfeld. ***With Jordan Crucchiola and Chris Grace.

Kristen "KII" Correll isn't ashamed of her inner weirdness, and she isn't letting her big "but" stand in the way of her goals. If that's not Pee-wee Herman in a nutshell, then you don't know Pee-wee. Kristen and Jordan celebrate the many joys of Tim Burton's 1985 classic film, as well as Pee-wee's Playhouse  (which is where KII was first introduced to Pee-wee).Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the 15th anniversary of the little horror comedy that could, Jennifer's Body.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Kristen "KII" Correll

Olive Penderghast might not have stood out at her high school until the big rumors started...but she certainly stands out in the world of teen comedy heroines.  Writer (and Tik Tok star!) Remy Solomon watched EASY A on repeat as a teen, and shares Olive's gifts, as well as some of her life lessons. Then, Jordan has one quick thing about Jeremy Saulnier's latest film, REBEL RIDGE.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Remy Solomon

This interview (with a different "One Quick Thing" segment) originally aired in November of 2022. It was our 1 year anniversary!Starting off with his deep identification with the singularly obsessed Roy Neary (Richard Dreyfuss) in CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND, Paul shares stories of his childhood as a sci-fi loving movie nerd, his adulthood as a newly minted horror fan, and a bunch of stuff in between. When this interview came out, Paul's latest was The School for Good and Evil, streaming on Netflix.  Paul and Jordan also discuss his series Welcome to Flatch. As of this re-release, his movie Jackpot!, starring Awkwafina and John Cena, has just come out on Amazon Prime.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Paul Feig

Stand-up comedy. YouTube stardom. Male modeling. Will Hunting. A precocious wannabe pirate with super-stretch powers. What do these things have in common? Listen and find out how they all come together in the form of German-born comedian Mario Adrion, as he and Jordan discuss his affinity with Monkey D. Luffy and Will Hunting.Then Jordan has one quick thing about the great Kyle Gallner and his new film, STRANGE DARLING.Find Mario's tour dates on his website.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Mario Adrion

Comedian Jen Kober always knew why she felt an affinity with Mindy Cohn's Natalie on The Facts of Life. Natalie was the rare bigger girl on TV in the 1980s, and yet that wasn't a huge part of her character -- she was smart, goofy, and beloved by her friends. As for Jodie Foster's tomboy teen in the original Freaky Friday movie? Sure, it was good to see a rough-housing girl at odds with her mom for not being girly enough. But there was just something else about young Jodie Foster that made sense... Presented with our apologies to any emotionally intelligent men out there ;) The Jordan has one quick thing about the new trailer for Y2KJen's special is called 'No Flies on Me,' From 800 Pound Gorilla Media. You can find out where she's performing next at her website.  ***With Jordan Crucchiola and Jen Kober

When writer/director Justin Simien (Dear White People, Haunted Mansion) first saw William Greaves' groundbreaking 1968 film, Symbiopsychotaxiplasm: Take One. He was mad. Not about the film's avant-garde style (part fiction, part documentary, part  performance art) but about the fact that he hadn't seen it sooner -- it might've saved him a lot of trouble as he found his way in a challenging, second-guessing industry. Now Justin is introducing more people to the contributions to cinema made by Black creatives like Greaves, through his series Hollywood Black, now streaming from MGM+.Then Jordan has one quick thing about Brandy and other stars lighting up the late-summer/early-fall horror slate.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Justin Simien

Director Jennifer Phang has helmed episodes of some major shows -- THE BOYS, RIVERDALE, THE EXPANSE, RESIDENT ALIEN, THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT, and more. Her latest film is Disney's DESCENDANTS: THE RISE OF RED. In this conversation, themes of humanity, mother/daughter relationships, and robots of all stripes abound in this episode, and no wonder, when Jennifer's brought us the rich dual Grace Park roles of Boomer and Athena from beloved '00s sci-fi series BATTLESTAR GALACTICA. Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the upcoming Big Bad Film Fest, which celebrates independent stunt and action films.ADVANTAGEOUS (Phang, 2015)DESCENDANTS: THE RISE OF RED (Phang, 2024)A.I. (Spielberg, 2001)BATTLESTAR GALACTICA (2003-2009)***With Jordan Crucchiola and Jennifer Phang

Before Bill Burke founded The Optimism Institute and started hosting the podcast Blue Sky, he had a major career in entertainment business -- the first GM of Turner Classic Movies, former CEO of the Weather Channel, ghostwriter of Ted Turner's memoir, just to name a few. Now, as someone devoted to the cause of seeing the positivity in the world with clear eyes, he's brought a character who seems to do the same: Henry Fonda's "Juror #8"  in the 1957 Sidney Lumet classic (like, it hardly gets more classic) 12 Angry Men.Then, Jordan has one quick thing about a new book from past guest Anna Bogutskaya, Feeding the Monster.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Bill Burke

First time feature director Sean Wang wanted a story that only he could tell, specific yet relatable. And so, with his new film 'Dìdi,' (a Sundance hit this year) he chose the coming-of-age genre and a semi autobiographical narrative. He was inspired in his filmmaking by a movie he'd seen in the theaters when he was around the same age as its protagonist, Mason, is at the end of the film: 'Boyhood,' Richard Linklater's grand moviemaking project shot over 12 years of the actors' (and filmmaker's) lives. Following that discussion, Jordan has one quick thing about the forthcoming ALIEN ROMULUS.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Sean Wang

Sequoia Holmes, host of the Webby Award-winning BLACK PEOPLE LOVE PARAMORE grew up idolizing Raven-Symoné...or was the real inspiration Raven's character, the self-assured and big-dreaming Galleria Garibaldi in 2003's THE CHEETAH GIRLS? Jordan and Sequoia celebrate the surprising depth of this DCOM classic.Then, Jordan has one quick thing about TRIGGER WARNING (the movie).***With Jordan Crucchiola and Sequoia Holmes  

Actor (and director, writer, producer) Devery Jacobs might be most familiar to folks from her role on RESERVATION DOGS, but she's carving out her own space in Hollywood with projects like the new movie BACKSPOT (executive produced by Elliot Page and directed by D.W. Waterson). And even as she's playing her part in making sure Native actors feel seen on screens, she's still battling to be herself on screen in projects that aren't centered around the Rez. Hear about all that, plus (of course) the many varied (and variably queer-coded) faces she's seen herself in on screen.Then, Jordan has one quick thing about LONGLEGS.Harriet the SpyKiki's Delivery ServiceThe Watermelon WomanLady BirdRhymes for Young GhoulsJordan's interview with Jeff Barnaby***With Jordan Crucchiola and Devery Jacobs 

This episode originally aired in April of 2023, but has been edited to include a new and updated "One Quick Thing" at the end! Season 2 of  Manzoor's We Are Lady Parts is now streaming on Peacock in the US.Balancing the dark and the light sides of coming of age, womanhood, and navigating the social order is something filmmaker Nida Manzoor always strives for in her projects (like WE ARE LADY PARTS and POLITE SOCIETY). And she wants to shout one of her biggest inspirations from the rooftops: SLUMS OF BEVERLY HILLS (1998, Tamara Jenkins), which centers on high-schooler Vivian Abromowitz, as played by a young Natasha Lyonne.Then, Jordan has one quick thing about her momentous latest appearance on Screen Drafts.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Nida Manzoor

Whether he's starring in major movies like ELEMENTAL or JURASSIC WORLD DOMINION, or sinking his teeth into roles like his his latest (in Yorgos Lanthimos' new KINDS OF KINDNESS), actor Mamoudou Athie follows his gut and ignores the algorithms. When Dev Patel's directorial debut, MONKEY MAN hit theaters earlier this year, Mamoudou found new depths of admiration for Patel as an actor and director -- and he also found a character he could deeply relate to in the determined Bobby/The Kid.Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the latest film from past guest Ariel Vida, TRIM SEASON.***With Jordan Crucchiola and Mamoudou Athie

June Squibb was born an actor, and had a rich career on stage for years before becoming an on-screen performer in her sixties. It's not your typical trajectory, sure, but then neither is being 94 and carrying your first feature film – which, by the way, is an action comedy. With her new movie THELMA new in theaters this weekend, the singular June Squibb joins us to talk about how the role of Kate in Andrew Payne's NEBRASKA – for which she won an Oscar – reflected her life and shaped her career.Then, Jordan has one quick thing about the 2020s updates to her Vulture ‘Best Queer Horror Movies' List.***With Jordan Crucchiola and June Squibb

The movie CLUE may not have been an instant hit, but it has an enduring legacy. And maybe everyone has a favorite character.  But for Adam Goldman, creator and writer of The Outs and Hot White Heist, Mr. Green (Michael McKean) is more than just a fave. He's a first example of what it means to be a "gay dipshit" (his words, we promise).  Then Jordan has quick thing about a couple of queer movies you may have missed!Listen to Hot White Heist***With Jordan Crucchiola and Adam Goldman

Actor, director, and writer Megan Rosati was not a child vampire. But from first watch, she so identified with Eli, the 12-year-old vampire in LET THE RIGHT ONE IN, the modern horror classic from Sweden, that she would show the film to people to help them understand her. In this episode, she and Jordan dig into the ways we can feel like we're different -- especially in adolescence -- and the power of genre films to make a statement.Then Jordan has a quick thing about the late, great Scott Wampler and the impact of his work.To support or learn more about THE VANITY, go to Seed&SparkTikTok @thevanityiswatchingInstagram @thevanityfilmTwitter @thevanityfilm***With Jordan Crucchiola and Megan Rosati

New Yorker cartoonist and writer for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Asher Perlman, related to Charlie Kaufman's self-deprecating self-portrait in Spike Jonze's 2002 film Adaptation - a movie we discussed here in one of our earliest episodes, with author Susan Orlean. As he's grown up -- both as a person and a creative -- has he gotten more in touch with his inner Donald, Charlie's (fully fictional) identical twin brother?This, and Jordan's take on Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga!Well, This is Me is available for preorder and will be released on June 18, 2024***with Jordan Crucchiola and Asher Perlman

You definitely know DeWanda Wise from somewhere. She's made a splash on the big and the small screen, in titles like SHE'S GOTTA HAVE IT (the Netflix series) and JURASSIC WORLD DOMINION. Now she's starring in the horror film IMAGINARY, which just landed on VOD after being in theaters earlier this year. But if you didn't realize that was the same DeWanda in all of those projects, you're not alone -- and she doesn't really mind. After all, an actor's job is to drop into the emotionality of a character, whatever the world. Today she's feeling seen by the emotionally sensitive May Boatwright in Gina Prince-Bythewood's 2008 film THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES. She'll talk about that, as well as how she uses that emotionality to navigate not just her performances, but also her career in Hollywood.  Then, Jordan has one quick thing about "June Squibb's BEEKEEPER"...that's right, it's THELMA (no spoilers).***With Jordan Crucchiola and DeWanda Wise