Raising Cinephiles

It's the holiday season on Raising Cinephiles! Jessica sits down with returning guest and holiday enthusiast Lily Vonnegut for a relaxed, festive chat about family movie traditions, favorite holiday flicks, and finding the right balance between cultural identity and seasonal fun.This episode is all about cozy vibes, laughter, and the magic of movies—whether it's Christmas lights or Hanukkah donuts, there's something for everyone to enjoy.What's Inside the Episode?

Episode Description: In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Raising Cinephiles, Jessica Kantor sits down with producer, podcaster, and new mom Carolina Groppa. They discuss their shared love of cinema, the challenges of raising children while maintaining creative careers, and the transformative journey of motherhood. Carolina reflects on her upbringing in Brazil, her evolution from actor to producer, and how her experiences shape her approach to storytelling, community, and family. Together, they explore the balance of being both present mothers and passionate creators, offering listeners a raw and honest glimpse into the realities of working parents in the entertainment industry.Key Highlights:1. First Media Memory & The Power of Storytelling* Carolina's first impactful TV experience was watching The Wonder Years, dubbed in Portuguese, as a child in Brazil.* Despite cultural and geographic differences, Carolina felt seen by the show's themes of growing up and self-reflection, highlighting the universal nature of storytelling.* Discussion on how certain shows and films shape us at a young age, even when we don't understand the technical aspects of filmmaking.2. Growing Up with Cinema* Carolina's father's love of classic comedies and cinema influenced her taste, with movies like Amadeus and National Lampoon's Vacation becoming family staples.* Moving to the U.S., TV shows like Full House and Family Matters became tools for learning English, reflecting the power of entertainment as an educational tool.3. Discovering Personal Taste* Carolina's taste in film and TV evolved in high school and college when she began studying classic films.* She reflects on how taste is fluid, growing alongside life experience.* Jessica and Carolina discuss how aesthetic preferences (like color palettes and visual storytelling) impact their appreciation of certain directors like Aronofsky and Almodóvar.4. From Acting to Producing* Carolina's path into the entertainment industry began with acting, but she later found her passion for producing.* Early frustrations with the acting industry's limitations and the 2008 writer's strike led Carolina to seek new opportunities.* Producing became a natural fit for her skills, and her experience as an actor helps her support other creatives and connect with story-driven content.5. Navigating Motherhood & Career* Carolina reflects on becoming a mother and the mental load of balancing her career and family.* She opens up about her community's support and how her mother's help has been instrumental in navigating early motherhood.* Jessica and Carolina discuss the importance of "mom networks" and how having a strong community of working mothers in the industry provides essential support and inspiration.6. Screen Time & Early Cinema Exposure* Carolina and Jessica discuss their philosophies on screen time for kids. Carolina notes that her six-month-old is already aware of smartphones and FaceTime.* Jessica shares her strategy of prioritizing slow-paced, thoughtful shows over fast, overly-stimulating content.* Carolina's "must-show" list for her son includes classics like Amelie, Big Fish, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and The Lion King, as well as more contemporary favorites like Little Miss Sunshine and Forrest Gump.7. Reflections on Mentorship* Carolina's concept of mentorship isn't a singular fairy godmother figure but a "village" of mentors made up of her peers, colleagues, and friends.* The importance of community and how her podcast, Angle on Producers, became a platform to share wisdom, elevate underrepresented voices, and archive the often invisible work of producers.8. Final Thoughts on Raising a Cinephile* Carolina hopes to instill in her son an appreciation for storytelling and human connection through film.* Her "essential movie" recommendation for Jessica's son is Amelie, a film that celebrates kindness, imagination, and being true to oneself.Memorable Quotes:* “Every film for me was a cathartic experience… If I was with someone who didn't understand that, I'd be like, how could you possibly just leave this theater?” — Carolina Groppa.* “I've always had this internal feeling that as an immigrant, I can't come here and not succeed at something.” — Carolina Groppa* “If you want to get something done, give it to a woman. If you want it done well, give it to a mom.” — Carolina Groppa* “I'm here to be abundant and give it away… What am I going to do with all this knowledge once I die?” — Carolina GroppaAbout Carolina Groppa: Carolina Groppa is an award-winning producer, podcaster, and creative powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Best known as the host of Angle on Producers, Carolina shines a spotlight on producers' often unseen but essential role in film and television. As a producer, her credits include The Honorable: Shayne and Autism in Love, and she's an advocate for transparent conversations about the industry's challenges and opportunities. She's also a new mom, navigating the balance of career and family with humor, heart, and an abundance mindset.Follow Carolina:* Instagram: @carolinagroppa* Podcast: Angle on ProducersDon't Miss This Episode If:* You're a working parent looking for inspiration and solidarity.* You're curious about the journey from acting to producing.* You're a cinephile interested in hearing how love for story and film is passed from generation to generation.Join the Conversation: Do you love this episode? Please share it with a friend and leave a review. Stay tuned for deeper insights into the magic of cinema and how it connects us across generations.Next Episode: Don't miss our final episode of the season before our break. Jessica will be back in mid-2025 with fresh stories, insightful guests, and all-new ways to inspire a love of cinema in the next generation. Stay subscribed and check out the Raising Cinephiles archive of over 70 episodes! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

In this special episode of Raising Cinephiles, Jessica Kantor sits down with filmmaker Michael Felker, director of Things Will Be Different, and his father, Douglas Felker, for an unforgettable multi-generational conversation about the power of movies to shape our lives and relationships. From first movie memories to the films that inspired them as creators and cinephiles, the Felkers explore how cinematic experiences create lasting bonds.The trio dives deep into childhood movie milestones, navigating age-appropriate films, and how to approach "radical" films like Fight Club as teaching moments. Michael reflects on how family film nights informed his storytelling in Things Will Be Different, while Douglas offers insight into the enduring magic of 2001: A Space Odyssey and how it terrified him as a child and a parent. The episode closes with heartfelt advice on how to raise a cinephile in an age of screens and short attention spans.Raising Cinephiles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.What You'll Hear in This Episode:* [00:01:00] Douglas' First Movie Memory: Watching 2001: A Space Odyssey at age 6 and the childhood nightmares it inspired.* [00:03:00] Michael's First Movie Memory: Walking into the middle of Aladdin at age 4 and being awestruck by the giant screen and bold animation.* [00:09:00] Family Film Night Traditions: How VHS tapes, DVDs, and "Friday night movies" with pizza became essential to family bonding.* [00:11:00] The "Age Gates" Philosophy: Douglas' strategy for introducing films like Fight Club and Pulp Fiction at "just the right time" — and Michael's perspective on how it shaped him as a cinephile.* [00:15:00] Father-Son Film Debates: The Felkers' ongoing conversations about movies like Back to the Future, The Matrix, and 12 Monkeys — and how different "time travel rules" apply.* [00:24:00] Movie Conversations that Last a Lifetime: Why analyzing films like Pulp Fiction together builds connection, not just cinephilia.* [00:30:00] Raising a Cinephile in the Age of Screens: Jessica's story of renting a theater for her son's first movie (The Red Balloon) and how she introduces Miyazaki classics like Ponyo and My Neighbor Totoro to her toddler.* [00:32:00] The Magic of Miyazaki: Why Spirited Away at age 8 is a "perfect bridge" from childhood to a more expansive, imaginative world.* [00:38:00] Essential Film Recommendations from Michael & Douglas: From Spirited Away at age 8 to Fight Club at age 15 — plus Douglas' thoughtful approach to introducing movies that help kids through the toughest life transitions.Must-Watch Movies Mentioned in This Episode:* 2001: A Space Odyssey (Douglas' first cinematic memory and a cross-generational staple)* Aladdin (Michael's first movie memory and a vivid introduction to the magic of animation)* Back to the Future (A timeless lesson on adolescence and self-worth)* The Matrix (Introduced to Michael at age 11, with big conversations on sci-fi and AI)* Fight Club (The delicate balance of introducing complex ideas to a rebellious teen)* Spirited Away (Both Michael and Douglas' top pick for Jessica's son at age 8)* The Red Balloon (Jessica's first cinematic introduction for her toddler)* Pulp Fiction (The movie Jessica saw at 14 with her mom — and what it means to "come of age" too soon)* Princess Mononoke (A “next-level” Miyazaki film introduced to Michael as a pre-teen)* Time Traveler's Wife and Sliding Doors (Two films that spark great conversations about choice and destiny)* Superbad (The comedy that defined Michael's freshman year of college)* Clockwork Orange (The "forbidden fruit" movie that Douglas delayed as long as possible)Listener ChallengeWhich movie would you recommend Jessica show her son as he grows older? Leave a comment with your pick; it might be featured in a future episode!Follow and SupportIf you loved this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. New episodes of Raising Cinephiles release every Wednesday. For more updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow Jessica Kantor and Raising Cinephiles on Instagram @jesskantor - @raisingcinephiles. Watch Things Will Be DifferentFollow Michael Felker

In this thrilling episode of Raising Cinephiles, Jessica sits down with Steven C. Miller, the visionary director behind the upcoming action-horror film Werewolves, premiering December 6th (Jessica's son's birthday!). Together, they dive deep into:

Welcome to Episode 70 of Raising Cinephiles! This week, Jessica Kantor sits down with a truly unique guest: 10-year-old Jack Michalski, the son of frequent guest Lily Vonnegut. Jack shares his deep passion for cinema, his early memories of watching iconic films, and his exciting journey into screenwriting.In this episode, you'll hear about:

Episode Description:In this episode, Jessica Kantor speaks with the dynamic producer-director / wife-husband duo Joni Levin and Keith Clarke, renowned for their work on the documentary Call Me Ted. Together, they delve into their personal journeys with cinema, the universal power of movies to connect, inspire and share early memories that shaped their love for storytelling. They discuss their latest project on the life of Ted Turner and the invaluable life lessons that movies can teach both children and adults.Listen as Joni and Keith share stories of family movie memories, discuss the impact of films on parenting, and explore how Ted Turner's life reflects a unique drive to make the world a better place.Key Topics Covered:* Film's Role in Childhood: Joni recounts her first movie experiences as an escape, and Keith shares how cinema transported him from his working-class upbringing in England.* Influence of Cinema on Parenting: They discuss how watching movies as a family nurtures curiosity, empathy, and shared understanding with children, from early Disney films to impactful stories like Dead Poets Society and Bend It Like Beckham.* Ted Turner Documentary Insights: Joni and Keith reveal the inspiration behind their latest project, Call Me Ted, detailing Turner's fearless journey, from his trailblazing media ventures to his early advocacy for environmental preservation.* Connecting through Movies: How stories on the big screen can bridge generations and serve as catalysts for family conversations about emotions, dreams, and resilience.Quotable Moments:* “The best movies transport us both emotionally and open our worlds up.” - Keith Clarke* “Ted believed that with passion and determination, we could truly change the world.” - Joni LevinEpisode Highlights:* 00:00-05:00: Jessica introduces the guests, Joni and Keith, and the conversation begins with their earliest movie memories, sharing touching stories of family and finding comfort in cinema.* 10:00-15:00: Joni and Keith talk about their shared love of storytelling and the role of humor in films. Jessica reflects on how cinema provides a communal escape.* 30:00-40:00: The two filmmakers discuss the journey of making Call Me Ted, offering insights into Ted Turner's life, from his media empire to his lasting environmental legacy.* 45:00-50:00: Advice for parents on curating movie experiences for children, including recommendations on films that inspire confidence, empathy, and personal growth.Join the ConversationDo you have a cherished movie memory from your childhood? Let us know in the comments, or tell us which film you think young cinephiles should experience!Subscribe for MoreDon't miss an episode! Follow Raising Cinephiles for new releases every Wednesday, where Jessica Kantor explores the world of cinema and family connections.Raising Cinephiles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.raisingcinephiles.comIn this insightful episode of Raising Cinephiles, host Jessica Kantor sits down with award-winning actor John Lawson, who earned Best Actor at Slamdance for his role in the independent film Daruma. Together, they discuss John's journey into acting, his influential family movie experiences, and the path that led him to star in Daruma, a film about a man …

Episode Description: In this episode of Raising Cinephiles, host Jessica Kantor dives into the return of smoking on-screen. From the nostalgia-fueled imagery in shows like Stranger Things and The Queen's Gambit to the resurgence of smoking in real life, we explore the cyclical relationship between Hollywood and cultural trends. Is smoking on-screen driving a real-world comeback, or is it reflecting a rebellion against wellness culture already underway? Join us as we question the allure of cigarettes in modern media and consider how we can talk to our kids about these powerful images.Topics Covered:* The history of smoking in cinema: from golden age glamour to modern resurgence.* Truth Initiative's recent reports on tobacco imagery in popular streaming shows and award-winning films.* How cultural nostalgia, aesthetic choices, and character development contribute to the rise of smoking in movies and TV.* The real-world impact: Are we seeing a return to smoking in our social circles as a reflection of what's on-screen, or is it vice versa?* Conversations we should have with our kids to help them navigate tobacco imagery in the media they consume.Films & Shows Mentioned:* The Queen's Gambit* Stranger Things* A Star is Born* Babylon* West Side StoryLinks Cited in the Episode:* Truth Initiative - While You Were Streaming: Tobacco Imagery in Streaming Shows https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources/smoking-pop-culture/while-you-were-streaming#:~=TOBACCO%20USED%20TO%20BE%20ALL,Schmidt%E2%80%9D%20and%20%E2%80%9CDaredevil.%E2%80%9D* Truth Initiative - Tobacco Imagery Rising in Top Entertainment https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources/tobacco-pop-culture/tobacco-imagery-rising-top-entertainment-including-among#:~=Subtopic&text=Lights%2C%20Camera%2C%20Tobacco?&text=To%20find%20a%20smoke%2Dfree,rated%20and%20Oscar%2Dnominated%20movies.&text=While%20You%20Were%20Streaming%202023:%20Lights%2C%20Camera%2C%20Tobacco?&text=If%20playback%20doesn't%20begin%20shortly%2C%20try%20restarting%20your%20device* Vanity Fair - Smoking Is Back in Movies: Here's Why https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/smoking-in-movies-awards-insider#:~=Back%20in%20Movies.-,Here's%20Why,%2C%20character%2C%20and%20sometimes%20tragedy.&text=Bradley%20Cooper%20and%20Carey%20Mulligan,say%2C%20%E2%80%9CWhere's%20yours?%E2%80%9D* Truth Initiative - Tobacco: A Starring Role https://truthinitiative.org/tobacco-starring-role#:~=Tobacco%20imagery%20infiltrated%20films%20rated,West%20Side%20Story%2C%20PG%2D13* The Guardian - Smoking Is Back, and It's Still Cool and Deadly https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/jul/02/smoking-is-back-and-its-still-cool-and-deadlyConnect with Us:* Follow Jessica on Instagram: @jesskantor @RaisingCinephiles* Share your thoughts on today's episode and join the conversation. Let's keep raising cinephiles who can think critically about what they see on-screen. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.raisingcinephiles.comEpisode Description:In this episode of Raising Cinephiles, host Jessica Kantor delves into the world of children's movies and how they shape parenting experiences. Jessica shares her personal journey watching beloved films like Curious George, Finding Nemo, and Luca with her son. These iconic movies not only entertain but also teach valuable life lesson…

Hi. Curious what I look like? Well, I am trying to do a video podcast for the first time. This might never happen again. I need positive encouragement. Also, I need to fix that eye-line when I read the teleprompter. (Oh - and if you're listening on a podcast platform, you can watch on raisingcinephiles.com) So, this episode is inspired by the screening of Modern Times I hosted for American Cinematheque's Friend of the Fest. It was such a fun matinee, and there were A LOT of kids in the audience, including my son. He could not sit still. I thought I made a grave mistake choosing this film. My podcast guests had led me astray. Then, a week later, something AMAZING happened. We were playing, and he said I was being brought to jail. But it was a really nice jail. And I realized it was the jail Little Tramp enjoyed. It was better than living in the Great Depression. So he took in the story, even though he also wanted to watch his seat slam back into an upright position and make a loud, distracting noise. A good lesson is that just because he isn't watching the way society deems respectable, it doesn't mean he isn't paying attention. Watching the movie also brought back a flood of memories—it was like Proust's Madeline. The memories consisted of scenes from films that have permeated culture through time, which is what I outline in this short episode. I hope you enjoy the watch! (Oh - and if you're listening on a podcast platform, you can watch on raisingcinephiles.com) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

In this special re-edit of the Thomas Ian Nicholas episode, we dive into his deep-rooted passion for cinema, which blossomed while he was making movies himself. Thomas reflects on his early movie memories, including the lasting impact of classics like Star Wars and The Shawshank Redemption. He opens up about how he shares his love for film with his kids, navigating the challenges of selecting age-appropriate content and the joy of introducing his son to the magic of cinema. We also explore the importance of physicality in acting and the ongoing journey to bridge the gap between creative vision and execution. The conversation ends with a look at Mary Poppins and the timeless desire to create films that inspire adventure and a sense of wonder.Here's the video I mentioned, which reminds me to keep writing, and eventually, I'll create something that matches my taste. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

In this episode, Julie Cavaliere takes us on a journey through her first movie memory and her deep affection for classic cinema. As the conversation unfolds, Julie and Jessica tackle the complexities of managing screen time for children, emphasizing the need to curate quality content for young minds.Julie opens up about her career path in the film industry, from studying film and TV production to her roles in development, acting, and writing. She also bravely shares her battle with postpartum anxiety, highlighting the crucial importance of mental health for parents. The discussion delves into the pressures of overstimulation and the importance of finding support as a mother.Jessica and Julie bond over their children's quirky interests—whether it's trains or a particular love for the color yellow—and reflect on the significance of nurturing these unique traits. They explore how motherhood reshapes one's taste and perspective, sharing personal experiences from the postpartum period and the hurdles they overcame.Before wrapping up, Julie recommends the timeless film 'Harvey,' while Jessica teases her upcoming presentation of 'Modern Times.' Despite a few technical hiccups at the end, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of cinema, motherhood, and mental health.Raising Cinephiles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

Tosca Musk, CEO of Passion Flix, discusses her love for romance novels and her passion for creating positive stories about love and relationships. In this conversation, Tosca Musk and Jessica Kantor discuss their favorite movies and the influence of cinema on their lives. They talk about the films that have inspired them, such as To Kill a Mockingbird and Strictly Ballroom. They also share their love for filmmakers like Baz Luhrmann, Nora Ephron, and Nancy Meyers. The conversation touches on the importance of storytelling and the emotional impact of movies. They discuss the joy of introducing their children to cinema and their different tastes and preferences. Raising Cinephiles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Tosca also talks about the process of adapting books into movies and the importance of choosing diverse stories to appeal to a wide audience. She explains that Passion Flix focuses on romance book adaptations as feature films and episodic series. The platform aims to remove shame from sexuality and explore intimate scenes in a way that drives the story and promotes open communication. Tosca also talks about the growth of Passion Flix's library and the importance of niche streaming platforms.Passionflix's next big film release will be “The Air He Breathes” on August 22. Based on the book by Amazon #1 bestselling author Brittainy Cherry. It's about a woman who - still mourning her husband's death - moves home with her daughter and meets a neighbor rumored to have a dark past who is also drowning in grief. Thanks for reading Raising Cinephiles! This post is public, so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

In this episode, actress Esther Moon joins Jessica Kantor to talk about Esther's journey as an actress and the importance of pursuing a passion. They share their experiences of introducing their children to movies and the impact of cinema on their lives.In this conversation, Esther Moon and Jessica Kantor discuss their experiences with introducing movies and traditions to their children. They talk about the challenges of finding kid-friendly movies in different cultures and the importance of exposing children to different languages and traditions. They also discuss the film JESA, in which Esther Moon stars, and the themes of holding onto traditions while also evolving. Raising Cinephiles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.They explore the balance between preserving cultural rituals and challenging oppressive gender roles. The conversation concludes with a discussion on fostering a love of cinema and storytelling in children. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.raisingcinephiles.comIt was such an honor to talk to Denise Di Novi. She's a prolific producer, director, and fine artist who has made films such as HEATHERS, EDWARD SCISSOR HANDS, and CRAZY, STUPID, LOVE - all three movies had a profound effect on me both in life and as a filmmaker. Denise shares her first movie memory and the joy of watching films with her mother. She dis…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.raisingcinephiles.comIn this episode, Jessica Kantor interviews Camille Guaty about their first movie memories and the impact of movies on their lives. They discuss the power of music in movies and the importance of introducing children to the story world before watching a movie. They also talk about the role of movies in teaching children about real-life topics like mortal…

Despite doing this interview with Larengytus, it remains one of my favorite conversations. We discuss some incredible filmmaking and parenting topics, from films that play with their genre to guns on-screen and our mutual adoration of watching movies on 35 mm. I hope you enjoy this new 22-minute edit of this inspiring conversation! The entire hour-long conversation is available to paid subscribers if you want to hear more.Raising Cinephiles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

I'm excited to share this recent re-edit and rerelease of one of our MOST popular episodes. We discuss how cinema influences our lives and kids and discuss one of my top movies, CLUELESS. Please enjoy the episode, available here and on your favorite podcasting platform. (And if you want the full-hour-long discussion, paid subscribers can access it in the archive!) Gif credit.This episode is edited by the incredible Mia Stewart, whom I met through my industry mom subgroup that encourages us to hire one another, especially in today's environment with the industry tightening its belt. That said, if you enjoy this podcast and the substack, please consider becoming a paid subscriber. It helps me attract partners and parents and allows me to create fun activities to inspire a future generation of Cinephiles. Raising Cinephiles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

This week, I had such an exciting and, dare I say, profound conversation with Joshua Triplett. We found common ground in the movies we love, how we approach our respective craft, and how we both take great pride in parenting.It's always interesting to speak with the parents of child actors, and hearing how the Triplett Family bonds through sharing their work with one another is a refreshing take on something that can often feel misguided. I especially loved how Joshua discussed not letting his daughters take work that isn't artful or beyond their developmental stage simply cause they aren't in it for the paycheck but rather for the love of it.I hope you enjoy listening to the conversation!To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.PODCAST SUMMARY:Joshua Triplett shares his first movie memories and how they influenced his passion for acting and the film industry. He recalls his first theater experience, watching a horror film at a young age and being terrified and fascinated by it. He also discusses the impact of watching a movie about Michael Jackson's life and how it inspired him to pursue acting and performing. Joshua talks about growing up in a large family and the influence of his religious upbringing on his exposure to different types of media.Joshua Triplett discusses the films he enjoys watching with his children and their impact on them. He mentions movies like Problem Child, Homeward Bound, Air Buds, and Three Ninjas, which he loved as a child and now shares with his kids. He also talks about introducing his family to the Indiana Jones series and how it made him appreciate the filmmaking process.Joshua shares his passion for storytelling and mentions a project he wants to produce about HIV awareness. He also expresses his desire to portray good black fathers in the industry and the importance of family. In this conversation, Joshua Triplett and Jessica Kantor discuss their experiences in the film industry and the importance of loving what you do. JJoshua recommends the film 'Origin' by Ava DuVernay as a movie that can help someone fall in love with cinema. They also mention their upcoming projects, including Joshua's debut album.Joshua's Music ProjectReleasing on July 11th, you can pre-save Pursuit of Happiness - here, preview it, or watch the visual album.Thank you for reading Raising Cinephiles. This post is public, so feel free to share it.. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.raisingcinephiles.com/subscribe

Summary:In this part of the conversation, the guests discuss their first movie memories and their favorite films growing up. They also touch on the topic of unreliable Wi-Fi and the importance of having a landline. John shares his experience of going to boarding school and the freedom he had as a child. He emphasizes the importance of being open to different types of movies and discovering hidden gems. John Farley and Grant Garry discuss their taste in movies and the role of comedy in their lives. They share stories about their experiences with movies and TV shows, including their favorite comedies and the influence of their family on their comedic preferences. They also talk about the importance of communication and using humor to navigate difficult situations. The conversation highlights John's unique perspective as the brother of the late comedian Chris Farley. The conversation covers various topics, including humor, grief, physicality, and movie recommendations. Movie recommendations for children are shared, including classics like The Sandlot, The Princess Bride, and Star Wars.TakeawaysChildhood movie memories can shape our preferences and influence our interests as adults.Unreliable Wi-Fi can be frustrating, and having a landline can provide a backup communication option.Going to boarding school can offer unique experiences and independence for younger siblings.Being open-minded and exploring different types of movies can lead to discovering hidden gems.Sometimes, movie titles can be misleading, and it's exciting when a film surprises you. Taste in movies can vary, but the most important thing is to find enjoyment and entertainment in what you watch.Comedy has evolved over the years, and different styles of humor resonate with different audiences.Movies and TV shows can be a solitary or shared experience, depending on the circumstances.The use of physical humor and the camera in comedy can enhance the storytelling.Gender can influence one's perception and appreciation of comedy.Movies and TV shows can be a valuable tool for teaching and discussing important topics with children.Family dynamics and personal experiences shape one's taste in movies and TV shows.Humor can be a coping mechanism and a way to navigate grief and difficult situations.The Farley family has a unique approach to grief, using comedy as a way to process and cope with loss.The documentary film explores the life and legacy of Chris Farley, providing a different perspective on his comedy and the impact he had on those around him. Finding humor in inappropriate situations can provide relief and allow for emotional release.It's important to give oneself permission to feel and express all emotions, even in times of grief.Movie recommendations for children include classics like The Sandlot, The Princess Bride, and Star Wars.Chapters00:00Introduction and Movie Memories18:02Dealing with Unreliable Wi-Fi and the Importance of a Landline19:10Boarding School Experiences and Independence21:33Being Open-Minded and Discovering Hidden Gems24:04Surprises and Misleading Movie Titles25:24Taste in Movies and TV Shows26:11Comedy as a Solitary Experience28:40The Evolution of Comedy35:43Movies and TV Shows as Tools for Communication45:06Meeting John Farley57:49Using Comedy to Navigate Grief01:00:07The Legacy of Chris Farley00:00Introduction and Humor09:54Grief and Taboo Topics New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

SummaryJennifer Warren, a former actress turned director, shares her journey in the film industry and the challenges she faced as a working parent. She discusses her early movie memories, growing up in a family of actors, and the influence of her famous Yiddish actor uncle. Jennifer also talks about her transition from acting to directing and the importance of having a support system while balancing work and family life. She emphasizes the changing landscape of the industry and the need for more opportunities for women directors. The conversation covers topics such as the challenges of breaking into the film industry, the role of technology in filmmaking, the importance of building a creative community, and introducing children to the cinema. The guests discuss the difficulty of getting a foot in the door of the industry and the recent resurgence of independent financing. They also explore the potential of AI in film production and the need for a balance between technology and human creativity. The guests share their experiences in teaching and mentoring aspiring filmmakers and emphasize the importance of finding a supportive, creative community. They also discuss the influence of personal taste and interests on children's movie preferences.TakeawaysThe importance of finding a support system while balancing work and family lifeThe challenges faced by women in the film industry, particularly as they ageThe changing landscape of the industry, with more opportunities in television and independent filmThe need for more opportunities for women directors Breaking into the film industry can be challenging, but opportunities for independent financing are resurging.AI has the potential to enhance efficiency and reduce costs in film production, but it should be used to empower creativity rather than replace human filmmakers.Building a creative community is crucial for aspiring filmmakers, as it provides support, feedback, and collaboration opportunities.Introducing children to cinema can be done through a variety of films, including silent films and physical comedies, which can engage their imagination and appreciation for storytelling.Finding a balance between technology and human creativity is essential for the future of filmmaking.Chapters00:00Introduction and Background09:24Early Movie Memories and Family Influence26:19Balancing Work and Family Life32:11The Changing Landscape of the Film Industry34:47Empowering Women Directors37:27The Resurgence of Independent Financing39:24Building a Supportive Creative Community52:11Introducing Children to Cinema58:41Balancing Technology and Human Creativity in Filmmaking  New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

SummaryLaura Morton, the co-director, producer, writer, and creator of the documentary 'Anxious Nation,' discusses her journey in making the film and her love for cinema. She shares her first movie memory of watching 'Fiddler on the Roof' and how it sparked her passion for going to the movies. Laura and host Jessica Kantor discuss the emotional impact of films and how they provide an escape and a safe space to feel different emotions. They also talk about the importance of storytelling and the role of movies in understanding our ancestry and where we come from. Laura shares her experience as a single mom and how she watches movies with her daughter, passing on her love for cinema and using films as a way to connect and have conversations. The conversation explores the state of youth mental health and the challenges parents face in identifying and addressing their children's mental health issues. It emphasizes the need for pediatricians to be trained in mental health and for parents to be aware of and validate their children's emotions. The conversation also discusses the lack of support and resources for parents and the importance of fostering children's individuality. The film 'Anxious Nation' is recommended as a resource for parents, and the films 'Inside Out' and 'Out of Africa' are suggested as recommendations for children.TakeawaysMovies provide an escape and a safe space to feel different emotions.Films have the power to make us feel seen, heard, and understood.Movies can be a source of connection and conversation, especially between parents and children.Anxiety is a common issue that many families face, and it is important to have open conversations and seek support.The film 'Anxious Nation' aims to provide resources and support for families dealing with anxiety. Youth mental health is a pressing issue, and parents need to be aware of and validate their children's emotions.Pediatricians should be trained in mental health to support children's mental well-being better.Parents should foster their children's individuality and not pressure them to conform to societal expectations.The film 'Anxious Nation' provides valuable insights and resources for parents.The films 'Inside Out' and 'Out of Africa' are recommended for children to develop an appreciation for cinema.Sound Bites"I love a good story. And for me, I think people always ask me if I read a lot. And I don't actually I do, you know, when I'm researching things that I'm writing, but when I'm not writing, I go to the movies, because it is that's my escapism.""Movies were the place where I was allowed to feel anything but happy because I feel like being a generation of survivors where we weren't allowed to be anything but thriving in our world, in our homes, so that going to the movies was the place where we were allowed to be anything but perfect.""I prefer to cry alone at home and laugh in a theater. And I, as a single mom by choice, I find the sad hard moments really easy alone and the happy moments really lonely.""We have to treat their emotional health exactly the way we treat their physical health.""We can't change the tide, but we can learn to surf.""The film 'Inside Out' does a great job of normalizing and identifying emotions."Chapters00:00Introduction and Background02:46The Emotional Impact of Films06:03Movies as a Source of Connection09:14Parenting and Watching Movies as a Single Mom23:58Anxious Nation: A Documentary on Anxiety and Mental Health29:45Youth Mental Health Crisis36:44Lack of Support for Parents38:28Treating Emotional Health45:45The Need for Change52:38Film Recommendations New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

SummaryIn this episode, host Jessica Kantor interviews Lucy Lawless about her career in acting and her directorial debut. They discuss Lawless' first movie memory, her love for horror films, and her journey in the entertainment industry. Lawless shares her experiences as an actress and the inspiration she finds in other actors and films. She also talks about her desire to entertain and create a somatic experience for the audience as a director. Lucy Lawless discusses her children's taste in movies and her own favorite films. She mentions that her daughter and one of her sons are cinephiles, while her other son is interested in trucks and plants. They all enjoyed movies like Alien, Tremors, and The SpongeBob Movie. Lucy also talks about her love for The Godfather and how it showcases both the male and female gaze. She recommends showing her son the Godfather movies to help him fall in love with cinema.Upcoming Projects:My Life is MurderPopular crime drama My Life Is Murder returns to Acorn TV with a two-episode premiere on Monday, June 17, co-premiering on BBC AMERICA, with two episodes premiering weekly on Mondays on both platforms.Never Look AwayXYZ has sold the documentary Never Look Away, the directorial debut of actress Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess), to Greenwich Entertainment for all rights in North America and to Kaleidoscope for all rights in the UK. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2024 and is coming to Sundance London in June 2024. TakeawaysLucy Lawless' first movie memory was watching 'Hi Lilly, Hi Lilly, Hi Lo' with her friend, which sparked her love for movies.Lawless was introduced to cinema by her mother and school, and she grew up watching New Zealand cinema, which she found surprisingly gratifying.Lawless discovered her desire to become an actress after seeing an ad and realizing that acting was a job.Lawless initially had no intention of directing, but she was inspired to direct a documentary about Margaret Moth, a camerawoman who was shot in the face during the Siege of Sarajevo.Lawless believes that every frame of a film should be designed with the audience's experience in mind. As a director, she aims to entertain and create a somatic experience.Lawless finds inspiration in older actresses and action movies, and she admires the work of actresses like Jessica Lange and Sigourney Weaver.Lawless advises young actors to believe in themselves and persistently pursue opportunities, even in the face of rejection.Lawless is currently working on two scripted projects and one documentary, but she acknowledges the challenges of getting projects funded and appealing to investors. Lucy Lawless' children have different tastes in movies, with one son interested in trucks and plants and her daughter and other son being cinephiles.They enjoyed movies like Alien, Tremors, and The SpongeBob Movie.Lucy recommends showing her son The Godfather movies to help him fall in love with cinema.She appreciates films exploring characters' motivations and subterranean aspects, such as The Godfather.Sound Bites"We grew up watching; my father really was a leader in vampire movies ." Lucy"My son was watching The Abyss when he was four or five years old. He was already operating the thing." Lucy"He loves being scared. He loves it. I put on Monsters, Inc. And the beginning is a little scary, but the rest is funny, right? It's gentle. And he runs in my lap and then looks over. I'm like, is it too scary? He goes, no." Jessica"He's going to have to wait a little time after Gorilla's in the Mist, or before actually, The Godfather." LucyChapters00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Projects07:03 Desire to Act and Becoming an Actress13:46 Inspiration from Older Actresses and Action Movies38:47 Introducing Children to Movies46:43 The Godfather: A Film to Fall in Love with Cinema New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

SummaryAlex Lebovici shares his first movie memory and discusses his love for cinema. He talks about going to the theater with his parents and how they would watch movies at home almost every night. Alex also talks about his experience with different movie theater formats, such as drive-ins and 4D theaters. He discusses how his taste in movies evolved over time and how he started choosing his own movies as a teenager. He shares how the movie 'Bowfinger' inspired him to pursue a career in filmmaking and talks about his experience in film school. Alex Lebovici and Jessica Kantor discuss their experiences with movies and their children in this conversation. They talk about introducing their kids to different films, dealing with scary scenes, and creating a safe, enjoyable movie-watching experience. They also discuss the film 'Boy Kills World' and how personal taste and the marketplace influence the projects they choose. The conversation touches on the power of movies to transport and inspire and the importance of creating unique and honest films.See Boy Kills World in theaters as of Friday, 4/26/2024. TakeawaysMovie memories can be formed at a young age and can have a lasting impact.Different movie theater formats offer unique experiences.Taste in movies can evolve over time and be influenced by various factors.The movie 'Bowfinger' inspired Alex Lebovici to pursue a career in filmmaking.Film schools can provide opportunities to explore and appreciate a wide range of films. Introducing children to movies can be a fun and exciting experience, but it's important to consider their age and sensitivity to scary scenes.Creating a safe and comfortable movie-watching environment, whether at home or in a theater, can enhance the enjoyment of the film.Personal taste and the marketplace play a role in the projects that filmmakers choose to produce.The film 'Boy Kills World' combines comedy, innocence, horror, and thriller elements, creating a unique and unexpected viewing experience.Movies have the power to transport and inspire and can create lasting memories and connections with loved ones.International travel can provide opportunities to explore different theaters and experience movies with diverse audiences.The film 'Road to Perdition' is recommended as a movie to show children in their early teens, as it showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of filmmaking.TitlesThe Impact of Film SchoolEvolution of Movie Preferences Boy Kills World: A Unique Blend of GenresRoad to Perdition: A Cinematic MasterpieceChapters00:00 First Movie Memories and Early Cinema Experiences06:03 Evolution of Movie Preferences15:03 The Movie That Inspired a Filmmaking Career31:20 Boy Kills World: A Unique Blend of Genres38:56 Exploring Movies in Different Theaters and Cultures New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

In this episode, Jessica Kantor talks through highlights of the previous 48 Raising Cinephiles Interviews. She discusses how movies can create conversation starters and shared memories between parents and children. She also explores the topic of when to show kids certain films and the impact of cinema on a child's perspective. Additionally, she highlights the spark of curiosity that movies can ignite in children and how cinema can open up their point of view to the world. Finally, she emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to screen time.Keywords movies, kids, shared experiences, conversation starters, memories, when to show, impact, curiosity, diversity, careers, imagination, play, screen timeTakeawaysMovies create shared experiences and memories between parents and children.Watching movies can be a bridge for discussing social issues with kids.Choosing the right time to show kids certain films is important.Movies can spark curiosity and inspire children's interests.Cinema introduces diversity and different perspectives to children.Movies can inspire careers and creative play.Quality content is more important than quantity when it comes to screen time.EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on  Instagram New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

In this episode, Stephen Moyer, an actor, director, and producer, shares his early movie memories and influences. As a child, he recalls attending Saturday morning pictures and being captivated by Laurel, Hardy, and The Lone Ranger. Stephen also discusses the sentimental value of his childhood toys and the importance of preserving memories. He then delves into his journey into filmmaking, from discovering his passion for acting to realizing the possibility of a career in film. Stephen reflects on the transition from theatre to film and the challenges and adaptations that come with it. In this conversation, Steve Moyer discusses his experience introducing movies to his children and balancing family life with filmmaking. He shares how he and his wife worked together as creative partners and managed to create parallel experiences for their children to enjoy being kids while their parents worked.  Stephen also talks about the development process of his film A Bit of Light and how he found hope in difficult subject matter. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and healing in storytelling.  The film will be available in theaters and on streaming Friday, April 5th, 2024. A BIT OF LIGHTDIRECTED & PRODUCED BY STEPHEN MOYER STARRING & PRODUCED BY ACADEMY-AWARD WINNER ANNA PAQUIN & BAFTA-AWARD NOMINEE RAY WINSTONE A Bit of Light | Official TrailerA Bit of Light, directed by Stephen Moyer from a screenplay by Rebecca Callard—based on her Bruntwood Prize-nominated play of the same name. The film stars Academy® Award winner Anna Paquin [True Blood, X-Men, Flack)], Bafta-Award Nominee Ray Winstone [currently in Netflix's Damsel & The Gentlemen,The Departed, Black Widow], Pippa Bennett-Warner [Gangs Of London, See How They Run], BAFTA nominee Youssef Kerkour [Home], and in his big screen debut Luca Hogan. Moyer, who can currently be seen in Paramount +'s Sexy Beast, the final two episodes he directed, also helmed several episodes of True Blood and Amazon Prime Video's Flack, starring Paquin and executive produced by the pair.  He made his feature directing debut with The Parting Glass, also produced by Moyer/Paquin. A Bit of Light unfolds as an intimate story about a recovering alcoholic named Ella (Paquin). A series of tough breaks forces Ella to move back in with her father, Alan (Winstone), while her daughters are under the care of her ex-husband, Joseph (Kerkour), and his new partner, Bethan (Bennett-Warner). Mired in guilt, the protagonist finds herself in fights with Joseph and Bethan about the kids and Alan over AA meetings. However, an unlikely friendship with Neil (Hogan) opens her eyes to taking responsibility and making the changes she needs to make.Produced by ANNA PAQUIN, STEPHEN MOYER, PHIL GLYNN AND AXEL KUSCHEVATZKY (Infinity Hill), ISABELLE GEORGEAUX (Pont Neuf Productions).TakeawaysChildhood movie experiences can have a lasting impact on a person's love for film.Nostalgia and sentimental value can be attached to childhood toys and movies.Discovering a passion for filmmaking can lead to a career in the industry.Transitioning from theatre to film requires learning new techniques and adapting to different challenges.Chapters00:00Introduction and First Movie Memories02:24Early Film Influences06:02Childhood Toys and Nostalgia08:13Family Movie Watching09:38Discovering a Passion for Making Movies14:08Realizing the Possibility of a Career in Film22:27Exploring Filmmaking Techniques25:32Challenges and Adaptations in Filmmaking35:55Introducing Movies to Kids37:30Working as Creative Partners39:19Family Dynamic on Set44:36Coming to the Material of A Bit of Light46:30Finding Hope in Difficult Subject Matter48:48Healing and Authenticity in A Bit of Light51:22Introducing Film to Children in Different Generations55:07Creating a Love for Cinema in Children New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

In this episode, Jessica Kantor interviews Christina Ybarra, the Director of education and Public Engagement at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. They discuss their first movie memories and their movie experiences growing up. They also explore the challenges and strategies of getting younger generations to sit through longer films and engage with cinema. Christina shares insights from her work with the museum's teen council and the interest young people have in the craft of filmmaking. They also discuss the importance of representation in films and the desire for more coming-of-age stories. Finally, they talk about the experience of bringing young children to the movie theater and the need for more family-friendly screenings. In this conversation, Christina Ybarra discusses how she introduces her daughter to cinema and the transition between TV and film. She also shares the goals of the museum's programming, including creating an intergenerational and accessible experience. Christina talks about upcoming programs and workshops, including a teen-led film festival. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a creative community and the impact of the Academy Museum. Finally, she recommends the movie Willy Wonka as a great introduction to cinema for children.TakeawaysMovies can be a powerful storytelling tool and create lasting memories and experiences.Younger generations are interested in the craft of filmmaking and want to learn about every aspect of the process.Representation and authentic storytelling are important to young audiences.Engaging young children in cinema can be a challenge, but early morning screenings and relaxed atmospheres can help create positive experiences.Family workshops and programs can provide opportunities for families to explore and enjoy cinema together. Introducing children to cinema can be done through a variety of platforms, including TV shows, films, and YouTube videos.The Academy Museum aims to create intergenerational and accessible programming that allows families to have a shared experience.Upcoming programs at the museum include a careers and film summit for high school students and a teen-led film festival.Fostering a creative community is important for young filmmakers, and the museum provides opportunities for collaboration and learning.The Academy Museum is a new institution that aims to preserve cinema history and celebrate the films of the past and present.Chapters00:00Introduction and First Movie Memory01:13Movie Experience Growing Up06:10Exposure to Advanced Movies as a Younger Sibling08:30Using Movies to Have Conversations11:03Getting Younger Generations to Sit Through Longer Films13:01Emotional vs. Intellectual Processing of Movies15:20Teen Council and Interest in Film Craft21:03Engaging Young Children in Cinema22:17Family Workshops and Early Morning Screenings23:01Movie Theater Experiences with Young Children24:06Introducing Children to Cinema28:37Goals for Museum Programming33:02Upcoming Programs and Workshops36:40Teen-Led Film Festival39:36Creating a Creative Community43:24The Academy Museum and its Impact49:33Recommendation: Willy Wonka New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

In this episode, actress and producer Shanti Lowry discusses her passion for cinema and the impact of movies on her life. She shares her first movie memory and its profound effect on her. Shanti also talks about her moviegoing experiences with her family and the conversations that followed. She reflects on the role of movies in shaping her desire to become an actor and the importance of representation on screen. Finally, she discusses her film 'Persona' and the challenges of finding the right distribution for independent films. In this conversation, Shanti Lowry and Jessica Kantor discuss the challenges and joys of balancing work and motherhood in the film industry. They explore the importance of supporting female filmmakers and creating opportunities for women in the industry. They also share their experiences of involving their children in the filmmaking process and the impact it has on their lives. The conversation highlights the significance of age-appropriate films and the role of movies as teaching tools. They conclude by discussing the movies they recommend to make children fall in love with cinema.TakeawaysMovies have the power to create a shift in the audience and evoke deep emotions.Conversations about movies can enhance the viewing experience and foster understanding and empathy.The film industry should strive for better representation and diverse storytelling.The future of cinema and theaters is uncertain, but there is still a need for the communal experience of watching movies on the big screen.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Film Background00:54 First Movie Memory03:01 Influence of Siblings on Movie Choices04:20 Impact of Conversations about Movies06:03 Decision to Become an Actor08:32 Movies as a Tool for Learning10:02 Using Movies to Teach History11:51 Appreciating Films with Depth12:19 The Importance of Craft in Movies13:03 Subjectivity of Art and Taste14:14 The Future of Cinema and Theaters25:31 Distribution Plans for 'Persona'27:33 Supporting Female Filmmakers28:23 Balancing Work and Motherhood29:35 Involving Children in Filmmaking31:34 The Impact of Children on Set33:42 The Role of Grandparents35:04 Introducing Children to Movies36:08 Choosing Age-Appropriate Films37:03 Movies as Teaching Tools38:29 Creating a Cinematic Experience40:08 Movies That Inspire43:05 Movies That Make You Fall in Love with Cinema New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

In a new regular monthly episode format, What We're Watching, Jessica Kantor and Lily Vonnegut discuss the movies they are watching with their children of varying ages (2, 8, and 10) and how their children are reacting. They also share what they are watching and what's inspiring them. Lily's Picks for Wyatt (10) and Jack (8):Father of the Bride: Both boys loved it, especially Martin Short's character.Parent Trap: A favorite inspired Jack to want to go to sleepaway camp.My Girl: They liked the soundtrack and the innocence of the 70s setting.The Breakfast Club: Lily plans to show this next, exploring themes of adolescence and relationships.Jack's Movie Preferences:Interested in filmmaking and movie history.Enjoys classic movies like Ferris Bueller's Day Off.Wants to watch Jaws, but Lily is hesitant due to the intensity.Jessica's Picks for Miles (2):Monsters, Inc.: Helped him overcome his fear of monsters.Elemental: A new Pixar movie they enjoyed watching together.Winnie the Pooh: Jessica sees a deeper meaning in the Heffalumps storyline.What Lily's Watching Herself:Anne of Green Gables: A nostalgic revisit from her childhood.What Jessica's Watching Herself:Killing of a Sacred Deer & Poor Things: Elevated horror movies for research.War Games: Considers showing this to Wyatt and Jack due to its relatable teenage protagonist.General Discussion:Kids' movies today are longer and lack the tight storytelling of older movies.Trailers reveal too much, diminishing the mystery and excitement of movies.Importance of exposing children to a variety of films, including older ones.Lily recommends Now and Then for her kidsLily suggests Curious George  for Miles.Key Takeaways:Movie choices should consider the child's age, interests, and maturity level.Classic movies can offer valuable lessons and entertainment for children.Sharing movie experiences with children can be a bonding activity.  New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

In this episode of the Raising Cinephiles podcast, Jessica Kantor interviews the Nelms Brothers, Esham, and Ian, who are independent film directors. They discuss their first movie memories, growing up watching movies, discovering their different tastes in films, and their inspiration to make movies. They also talk about their preparation process and collaboration as co-directors. The conversation covers topics such as the power of reading movie scripts, the growth and confidence of filmmakers, introducing movies to children, the impact of movies on children, creating movie theater experiences for children, the nostalgia of physical media and movie discovery, the loss of tangible media and movie discovery, and memories of Miramax and working in the film industry. The conversation also touches on the importance of separating the art from the artist. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the impact of wildness and deviance in films. They explore how wild characters can bring brilliance to a story and how it's important to keep that wildness on the screen. Their film,  RED RIGHT HAND, is in theaters on 2/23/24. View the trailer. TakeawaysChildhood movie experiences can have a profound impact on one's love for cinema.Watching movies together as siblings can create a shared language and taste in films.Making movies requires collaboration, preparation, and a willingness to learn and improve.Having a distinct vision and understanding each other's strengths can enhance the co-director dynamic.Chapters00:00Introduction and First Movie Memories05:27Growing Up and Watching Movies10:27Discovering Different Tastes in Movies22:14Inspiration to Make Movies28:12Preparation and Collaboration33:28The Power of Reading Movie Scripts36:10The Growth and Confidence of Filmmakers37:42Introducing Movies to Children39:12The Impact of Movies on Children44:44The Influence of Movie Content on Children46:33Creating Movie Theater Experiences for Children51:36The Nostalgia of Physical Media and Movie Discovery59:45The Loss of Tangible Media and Movie Discovery01:00:42Memories of Miramax and Working in the Film Industry01:01:49Separating the Art from the Artist01:02:18The Brilliance of Wildness New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

In this episode, Roma Roth, a writer, showrunner, and entrepreneur in the film industry, shares her first movie memories and how they influenced her love for cinema. She discusses her transition from anthropology to the film industry and why she chose romance as her genre of choice. Roma also talks about balancing motherhood and her career and how she introduces her children to cinema. She shares her role models and inspirations in the industry. The conversation covers future projects, IP-driven development, passion projects, pitching, and movies to inspire a love for cinema.ROMA ROTHRoma Roth is the Creator, Showrunner and Executive Producer of the CW/CTV/Fremantle Canadian series SULLIVAN'S CROSSING starring Morgan Kohan, Chad Michael Murray and Scott Patterson.  Based on the Robyn Carr novel, the show became the #1 Canadian drama when it premiered, drawing higher numbers than any Canadian drama in the last three years. Following its premiere on The CW in the U.S., the show quickly became the #1 drama series on the network. Roth's previously executive produced the successful series VIRGIN RIVER for Netflix. Also based on Carr's book of the same name, Roth was instrumental in bringing the show to life.  Now heading into its sixth season, Virgin River has become a global phenomenon, and is one of only a handful of shows to spend 100 days on Netflix's top ten list.  In addition to being a writer and director, Roma is also President of Reel World Management (RWM), a production and distribution company that develops, finances and produces features and TV series. Roma has also written and/or produced over 70 TV movies as well as multiple episodes for Sullivan's Crossing's first season. She has been nominated for a Canadian Screen Award and is a member of the WGA, WGC, DGC, PGA, and the Television Academy. TakeawaysEarly movie experiences can have a lasting impact on a person's love for cinema.Choosing a specific genre, such as romance, can help connect with a dedicated audience.Balancing motherhood and a career in the film industry can be challenging, but having a supportive partner and open communication can help.Movies can be used as a tool for conversations and teaching important lessons to children.Having role models and inspirations in the industry can help shape one's career path. Established filmmakers have more creative freedom in the industry.IP-driven development is a common approach to reach a wide audience.Passion projects allow filmmakers to explore their personal interests.Persistence is key in the pitching process.Blade Runner and the new Planet of the Apes are recommended movies to inspire a love for cinema.Chapters00:00 Introduction and First Movie Memories03:24 Early Movie Experiences and Love for Cinema08:10Transition from Anthropology to Film Industry12:16 Choosing Romance as a Genre16:27 Creating Drama with Romance19:17 Balancing Motherhood and Career26:33 Introducing Children to Cinema31:10 Using Movies for Conversations37:20 Role Models and Inspirations40:06 Future Projects and Creative Freedom41:01 IP-Driven Development Slate42:17 Passion Projects43:20 Pitching and Persistence44:06 Movies to Inspire Love for Cinema New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Dr. Yalda Uhls joins host Jessica Kantor and discusses the effect of storytelling on our kids. They discuss how media shapes children's worldview and how it's not how much a child watches but what they are watching that truly matters. Yalda T. Uhls, a former senior exec at MGM and Sony, left the movie world to study child development, earning a Ph.D. in Psychology at UCLA. Uhls recently founded The Center for Scholars & Storytellers, an organization dedicated to bridging the work of child development researchers and youth content creators. Uhls is also an assistant adjunct professor at UCLA where she does research on how media affect the social behavior of tweens and teens and teaches a class on Digital Media and Human Development. She is an advisor for YouTube Kids and Family, The Bill and Melinda Gates Equitable Future project, Common Sense Media and the Jacobs Foundations Learning and Science Exchange and the author of the parenting book Media Moms & Digital Dads: A Fact not Fear Approach to Parenting in the Digital Age. Research conducted by Dr. Uhls has been featured in Time Magazine, the NY Times, USA Today, NPR and many others, and published in academic journals such as Developmental Psychology and Computers in Human Behavior. New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Erik Davis joins Jessica Kantor on Raising Cinephiles. They discuss film discovery, how that's evolved for today's audience, and the first movies his kids fell in love with!Erik Davis is a proven leader and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the digital media space; Erik is a deeply dedicated, passionate, and motivated collaborator who has worked on hundreds of theatrical and home entertainment titles and helped grow the Fandango network to over 100 million subscribers across platforms.Additionally, as one of the nation's leading movie commentators, Erik brings over a decade of experience writing about movies for Fandango, Movies.com, AOL Moviefone, Cinematical and others, as well as talking extensively about movies on television, YouTube, podcasts and radio.Erik has appeared regularly on The TODAY Show, CBS This Morning, CNN, MSNBC, New York Live, Good Day NY, Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, Cheddar, CNBC, PBS and more, and he has sat on the "Masters of the Web" panel at San Diego Comic-Con three times, as well as hosted panels at SXSW and inside Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con. Erik is also a proud voting member of the Critics Choice Association, and he has hosted dozens of interviews with many of the biggest names in entertainment.Erik has worked with and edited over 100 different writers, many of whom are now at places like the New York Times, The Daily Beast, MTV News, LA Weekly, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, Indiewire, the LA Times, Business Insider, and a bunch of other sites you read daily. Erik is on Twitter @erikdavis, and is verified with over 90,000 followers. New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Barnaby Clay joins host Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles. Barnaby shares his introduction to horror films and how that's shaped his filmmaking. Barnaby discusses his new film, The Seeding, and how a TV show from his early childhood unconsciously inspired ideas in the film. The Seeding will be in select theaters and on digital January 26th. And finally, they discuss the challenge of introducing our children to cinema with all the competing content.  About Barnaby Clay: Prior to The Seeding, Barnaby directed the documentary SHOT! The Psycho-Spiritual Mantra of Rock which chronicles the story of legendary rock photographer Mick Rock. His award-winning short films include Carousel, starring Chloe Sevigny, and Sickdog, starring Tunde Adebimpe and Natasha Lyonne.While his new movie has its feet firmly planted in the horror/thriller genre, Barnaby's background is rooted in the music and art space, having directed numerous music videos for bands like Yeah Yeah Yeahs and TV On The Radio and creating unique art installations like Live On MarsRevisited, a reimagining of the Mick Rock directed video for David Bowie's "Life On Mars". He also regularly collaborates with Yeah Yeah Yeahs singer Karen O (who he's also married to), including the immersive installation An Encounter With Lux Prima, which was done in collaboration with Danger Mouse.  New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Producer Monica Levinson joins Jessica Kantor on Raising Cinephiles. We discuss the grit and tenacity it takes to work in the industry, seeing her Jewish culture in movies and how that shaped her taste, and how she shares her world with her nieces and nephews.  Monica Levinson is a prolific film and television producer with an expansive career of diverse projects. Working alongside top innovators in entertainment, she is frequently lauded for her passion to protect and further the creative aspects of filmmaking, with a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility.Her recent credits include: Borat Subsequent Moviefilm (for which she won the 2021 Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy, and has been nominated by the Producers Guild for the PGA Awards' Darryl F. Zanuck Award for Outstanding Producer of Theatrical Motion Pictures), Tara Miele's Wander Darkly, David Oyelowo's The Water Man, Aaron Sorkin's The Trial Of The Chicago 7, and "Women In Film: Make it Work!" (CW's virtual benefit highlighting WIG's #HireHerBack initiative).Levinson served as President of Production of ShivHans Pictures from its inception in 2014 through 2019 and oversaw all aspects of film and television development, production, post-production, financing, and distribution turnover. There she produced a distinctive slate of projects including Trumbo, Captain Fantastic, Beirut, The Polka King, and Brian Banks.Before joining ShivHans, Levinson's credits include Borat, Bruno, Zoolander, Dodgeball, and Larry David's Clear History. Starting her career in broadcast news in her hometown of Washington, D.C., she made her transition into narrative storytelling working with visionary directors including Alan J. Pakula and Sidney Lumet.Levinson is an executive board member of AMPAS (Producers Branch), PGA, DGA, and on the leadership team for Women's Production Society. On films she produces, she started a training program for underrepresented groups, is a founding member of INDIE (representing independent films in various endeavors), mentors young filmmakers, and often guest lectures at universities.   New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

To kick off 2024, Oscar-nominated producer Axel Kuschevatzky joins host Jessica  Kantor on Raising Cinephiles. We discuss his unconventional career path, his sharing his passion for cinema with his family, and the state of international film finance!  Axel Kuschevatzky is a veteran movie producer with more than 80 feature credits. His film Argentina, 1985, was nominated for an Oscar in 2023 in the best foreign film category. In November 2019, he teamed with producers Phin Glynn and Cindy Teperman to launch L.A, London, and Buenos Aires-based company Infinity Hill to develop and produce both feature films and TV series. Among their first projects are "The Doorman," starring Ruby Rose and Jean Reno, directed by Ryûhei Kitamura; the Berlin Film Festival contender "The Intruder" and the hit TV series "Staged," for BBC One starring David Tennant and Michael Sheen. New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Vanessa Simmons joins host Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles. They discuss how the film Clueless inspired Vanessa's pursuit of fashion and how her artistry as an actress continues to evolve as we embark on our fourth decade. Vanessa also discussed her online community, U4IA (Euphoria), and how important it is to create a foundation of healthy beauty and wellness as an example for our children. Vanessa Simmons is a model, actress, entrepreneur, and eldest daughter of hip-hop legend Rev Run of RUN DMC – she is best known for appearing on the iconic reality series RUN'S HOUSE on MTV, which chronicled the lives of the Simmons family and followed she and her sister Angela as they built their sneaker line, Pastry. Vanessa is also a dedicated beauty & wellness enthusiast and is the founder of U4IA (pronounced euphoria), an online community built around fact-based beauty & wellness tips and mental health awareness. LINKSVanessa Simmons IG: https://www.instagram.com/vanessajsimmons/U4IA IG: https://www.instagram.com/u4ianow/U4IA Website: https://www.u4ianow.com/ New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Neil Turitz joins host Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinphiles. Neil is an extra special guest for Jessica since they partnered together on a newsletter called Film News Briefs, which had a profound impact on both of their careers. Neil Turitz is a journalist, essayist, author, and filmmaker who has worked in and written about Hollywood for more than 25 years, though he has never lived there. These days, he splits his time between New York City and the Berkshires. He's not on Twitter, but you can find him on Instagram @6wordreviews.Read Neil's article, The Accidental Turitz: Earth Has a New Resident and There Is Much to Teach Him (About Movies)z New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Simon Cellan Jones joins host Jessica Kantor on Raising Cinephiles. They discuss how his own family life inspired his new film, The Family Plan, which is streaming on Apple TV+ starting December 15, 2023. Simon also discusses his love of genre-bending stories that stem from growing up loving the film Bugsy Malone.  From directing BAFTA-winning programs in the UK to working in the U.S. with big names like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Jason Momoa, Alexander Skarsgård, Keri Russell, and more, filmmaker Simon Cellan (pronounced Keth-Lan) Jones now delivers his biggest film to date with an action comedy for the whole family.  Simon has spent his career honing his craft and demonstrating a command behind the camera across a wide array of genres and turning in award-winning work in the process.Having grown up in/around the industry, one of his earliest memories is as an extra alongside Glenda Jackson in a film directed by his dad, the late James Cellan Jones.  From there, life would take him through many experiences before finding his way as a director, starting with a job in the mailroom at 20th Century Fox London, where he'd find himself holed up in the screening room much of the time watching films from the projection booth. From there, he would detour into photography, embedding himself as a civilian in the war-torn areas of Beirut, Russia, and Afghanistan, capturing impactful, hard-hitting visuals that would influence his work upon returning to film/TV. New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Carrie Coon joins host Jessica Kantor on Raising Cinephiles to discuss her introduction to cinema at her grandparent's house and a discovery of how her introduction to cinema may have an influence on bringing Bertha Russell to life in The Gilded Age. Season two is now streaming on Max. Originally from Copley, OH, Carrie Coon is a Chicago-based theatre, television and film actress. She received a BA in English and Spanish from the University of Mount Union and her MFA in Acting at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Coon was nominated for a Tony Award in the Best Featured Actress category for her Broadway debut as Honey in the transfer of Steppenwolf Theatre's production of "Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?", directed by Pam MacKinnon. Although Coon did not win in 2013, the production was awarded Best Revival, Best Director (MacKinnon) and Best Actor (Tracy Letts).  New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Luca De Laurentiis joins Jessica on this week's podcast.  Luca is a film producer who has expanded into the role of executive producer in commercial and branded innovation. He comes from a generation of filmmakers, including his grandfather, the legendary Dino Di Laurentiis, who made the 1976 King Kong, amongst other incredible films. Dino gave Luca his start, and now he's looking forward to sharing his love of cinema with his one-year-old daughter.Luca started his production journey working on feature films, television, and branded content.  As a producer, Luca evolved with the times, curiosity pushing his limits to work outside the traditional boundaries. In 2015, as a confounding member of UNIT9 North America, Luca began exploring integrated production. He became a pioneer in working with emerging technology and building teams that allowed them to create the unthinkable. They experimented with machine learning, generative art, custom prototyping, and Ai. Most recently, Luca has been working with the team at VTPRO Design, where they play with bespoke hardware and have fun with robotics. Luca helped attract a new data set of clients while encouraging  partners to keep pushing the limits. Luca is now consulting and advising with new and emerging companies such as 3D anamorphic content houses out of Barcelona, BCN, and Toronto-based tech partner ZeMind.Movies Discussed Include:PinocchioHome AloneTeenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesCity SlickersDumb and dumberHannibalMan of LamonchaSwimming with SharksI'm a born liarThe ClockPinocchio (new)LucaHarry PotterThe Wizard of OzGood Will Hunting New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Gelila Bekele joins Jessica Kantor on Raising Cinephiles, and they talk about her most recent film, MAXINE'S BABY: THE TYLER PERRY STORY, which is available to stream globally on Prime Video. Gelila discusses her journey into discovering cinema and how it led to this most recent film, a generational story about healing and resilience. Gelila Bekele is a model and a documentary filmmaker. Her modeling career began in 2006, appearing in leading magazines, beauty campaigns, and numerous publications. She is a devoted global advocate for young girls' right to equal opportunities, with a focus on fundamental necessities and education.Her mission of bringing a voice to under-recognized global issues has birthed a creative platform that increases awareness and allows for exhibition through storytelling. In 2013, Gelila began her narrative and documentary film career. Her most recent releases at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival and Berlinale Mai: Life is not Honey (Director) and Anbessa (Executive Producer) The Model Activists 2017 ( Director). Gelila is the author of the book Guzo! (2018), which documents the daily lives of native Ethiopians centering on customs, cultural traditions, religious practices and dwellings. New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

 Alex Winter joins Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles. Alex is an actor and filmmaker; you might recognize his voice from Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure or not because he won't be in character. He came on this week to discuss a film he directed, The YouTube Effect, which explores how YouTube is affecting culture from many different angles.Alex Winter is a director, writer and actor who has worked across film, television and theater.Winter entered show business as a child actor with co-starring roles on Broadway in The King & I and Peter Pan, and came to prominence in movies such as Warner Bros' hit The Lost Boys and the wildly popular Bill & Ted franchise. As a filmmaker, Winter's narrative features include the cult classic Freaked, for 20th Century Fox and the critically acclaimed Fever, for Lionsgate, which screened in the Directors' Fortnight at Cannes.Winter is the founder of Trouper Productions, which services his documentary work. In 2020, Winter released two new documentary feature films; Showbiz Kids, premiered on HBO to widespread critical acclaim, garnering a Critics Choice nomination for Best Score. Followed by  Zappa, the first all-access documentary on the life and times of Frank Zappa. The Kickstarter campaign for this project was the highest funded documentary in crowdfunding history. Zappa was released by Magnolia Pictures to widespread critical acclaim. A Critics Pick in the New York Times, Zappa was nominated for Best Music Documentary by the Critics Choice Awards.The highly anticipated third installment in the Bill & Ted franchise,  Bill & Ted Face The Music, opened in August, 2020, as the number one movie both in the U.S. and the UK, and is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes.Previous documentary work includes The Panama Papers, about the biggest global corruption scandal in history and the journalists who worked in secret and at great risk to break the story. A multiple award-winner, The Panama Papers is executive produced by Laura Poitras, opened to a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and is out now on Hulu, AmazonPrime and Epix in the US. Also in release worldwide is Trust Machine, about the rise of bitcoin and the blockchain, available on VOD.Deep Web is about the online black market Silk Road, and the trial of its creator Ross Ulbricht. The film premiered on the Epix network, opening as the #1 documentary on iTunes and earning a Cinema Eye nomination among several award wins. Deep Web is now available for streaming and VOD. Downloaded is a VH1 RockDoc about Napster and the digital revolution. The film premiered at SXSW, garnering worldwide critical acclaim at theatrical and festival screenings.Just completed is Winter's next feature documentary, The YouTube Effect. Produced by Winter/Trouper Productions in partnership with Gale Anne Hurd/Valhalla Entertainment and Glen Zipper. The film had its world premiere at Tribeca in June, 2022, completed a sold-out theatrical run in July of 2023 and is now being released worldwide on digital beginning August 8, 2023, from Drafthouse Films.Films Discussed:The Yellow Submarine Match GameLittle RascalsThe GeneralSherlock JrHoly Grail (Monty Python)Willy WonkaWest Side StoryNapster Doc New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Director Deborah Kampmeier join Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles. She most recently directed multiple episodes of Gilded Age season 2 on Max. They discuss what it meant for herself, the crew, and her daughter to have her on set a baby. How directing encapsulates all of her passions and how proud she is of her daughter's burgeoning acting career. DEBORAH KAMPMEIER is an award-winning filmmaker who has written, directed, produced, and edited multiple independent feature and short films.This fall, Kampmeier returns to HBO's critically acclaimed period drama “The Gilded Age,” directing two episodes in their highly anticipated second season. Additionally, she directed two episodes of the young adult crime series “Harlan Coben's Shelter” and the Western thriller “Outer Range” both for Amazon.Her first feature, “Virgin,” starring Elisabeth Moss and Robin Wright, was nominated for two 2004 Independent Spirit Awards, including Best Actress for Elisabeth Moss and the John Cassavetes Award. Her second feature, “Hounddog,” starring Dakota Fanning and Robin Wright, was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival. Kampmeier's third feature, “Split,” won Best of Show at the 2016 Female Eye Film Festival. Her fourth feature, “Tape,” starring Isabelle Fuhrman It is now available on VOD.Films Discussed :Jungle Book400 Blows VirginSpirited AwayPrinces ManchiKiki's Delivery ServiceSplitTateShelterWhale RiderThe Commitments (Alan Parker)BirdcageAmerican Horror StoryDouble Life of VeroniqueLes EstradaThelma and LouiseThe PianoHunger Game   New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Andrew Morgan joins Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles. They discuss his new film Texas, USA, focusing on those standing on the front line of justice. It's available on all major streaming platforms. We discuss how he chooses stories and raising a family while building his career. Andrew Morgan is an internationally recognized award-winning filmmaker focused on telling stories for a better tomorrow. His experience includes a broad range of work that spans narrative and documentary storytelling for multiple films and new media projects that have been filmed and released all over the world. View Trailer for Texas, USAMovies Discussed:Ben HurThe lion kingJurassic parkCinderellaETMeg 2JawsMatrix The OCWinnie the Pooh New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

This week, Jaime P. Sullivan joins host Jessica Kantor on Raising Cinephile. Jamie is a producer with two films available to stream: Beast (Amazon Prime) and Oracle (Max). Jamie loves to tell stories and uses them in her parenting, especially the cautionary tales from horror films.Films Discussed Include:OracleBeastPsychoGilmore GirlsMy so-called LifeSeventh HeavenStand By MeJurassic ParkHarry PotterThe GooniesE.T.It Follows New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Creator and Showrunner Annie Weisman of Apple TV's Physical joins Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles. They discuss how Alice in Wonderland inspired themes in the first season of Physical and how her films like Grease don't hold up for her kids. Watch all three seasons of Physical on Apple TV. Films Discussed:Wizard of OzAlice in WonderlandBack to the FutureStar WarsRaiders of the Lost ArkBreakfast ClubPretty in PinkHeathersBarbieGreaseRushmoreA League of their OwnGroundhogs DayFrozenBeauty in the BeastLittle MermaidDungeons and DragonsDark CrystalMary PoppinsSingin' in the Rain New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Nadine Crocker joins Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles. She discusses her journey to directing Desperation Road, her approach to getting intimate performances and inspiring her son to direct. See Desperation Road in theaters and support a visionary director.  View the trailer here. Nadine Crocker is an award-winning director, writer, actress, and producer whose journey has been anything but conventional. An advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention, she brings a sense of herself to anything she undertakes. Her second film, filmDesperation Road (Lionsgate), is a tale of struggle, revenge, and redemption and will be released in theaters and on demand on October 6th. The Southern noir thriller based on the novel of the same name by Michael Farris Smith is a labor of love for Crocker and stars Garrett Hedlund, Willa Fitzgerald, Mel Gibson, and Ryan Hurst.   Her first film, the award-winning independent feature Continue, is based on her true-life experience of surviving a suicide attempt when she was 23. Her intent was to make a film where she could not only tell her story but help others from taking their own lives. The film premiered at the Cinequest Film Festival and continues to play the festival circuit with an eye toward a theatrical release in the coming year. In addition to her work as a filmmaker, you may recognize Crocker from her acting work in Eli Roth's remake of Cabin Fever (with flesh falling off), playing Scorcher on CW's Supergirl, or as Juliet in Hallmark Channel-esque Rodeo & Juliet on Netflix.Movies Discussed include:The Sixth SenseBad SantaPulp FictionBarbieRequiem for a DreamGirl InterruptedWinter's BoneCléo from 5 to 7Point BreakDesperation RoadToy StoryCarsE.T.Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

Thomas Ian Nicholas joins host Jessica Kantor this week on Raising Cinephiles.  Thomas is a writer, director, actor, and musician.  We discussed his most recent project, Underdeveloped, which is currently available on Tubi & Amazon  Freevee. We discuss signing the SAG interim agreement to allow the release, but most importantly though, we discuss his love of the craft of cinema and how he is sharing that with his kids.Thomas began acting on "Who's the Boss?" playing a young Tony Danza. At age 12, Nicholas embarked on a series of feature films shaping his young adult career, including "Rookie of the Year," "A Kid in King Arthur's Court." By 18, he had recurring roles on hit TV shows like "Party of Five" and the role of "Kevin Myers" in the extremely successful "American Pie" franchise. From starring in the cult classic "American Pie" films to producing movies and fronting his touring band, Thomas Nicholas has truly had his hand in every facet of Hollywood. He's excited to share his latest project, "Underdeveloped,” a limited series premiering on Amazon + Freevee Thomas joins the show both as a starring role and executive producer with other castmates, including show creator Brian A. Metcalf (Adverse & Living Among Us), David Henrie (Wizards of Waverly Place), David Koechner (The Office) and Tom Arnold (True Lies). The new mockumentary-style show follows a group of failed and inexperienced producers,forced to work together at a production company. The cast will also be coming together at this year's" San Diego Comic-Con for an exclusive panel to discuss Developing Indie TV/Film for Streamers.Films DiscussedA New Hope - Star WarsRadio FlyerShawshank RedemptionThe Good SonThe Bad SeedRookie of the YearAmerican PieMary PoppinsOldFlight of the NavigatorGooniesThe NeverEnding StoryBack To the FutureWillowAlmost FamousA Kid in King Arthur's CourtBaywatch New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

This week, Director Stephanie Laing joins host Jessica Kantor. She's a prolific filmmaker that tackles subject matter. That's true or deals with fundamental topics. We discuss her most recent project, Apple TV's Physical, and how raising a cinephile entails watching challenging stories.  Stephanie also shares how her children love cinema, and it can be some of the harshest critics.Stephanie Laing is an American filmmaker known primarily for her work on TV. She has worked on shows such as Tracey Takes On..., Tracey Ullman's Visible Panty Lines, Vice Principals, Divorce, Veep, and Eastbound & Down. She has also directed episodes of TV shows like I'm Sorry, Veep, Detroiters, Mixed-ish and Physical.Her feature-length directorial debut, Irreplaceable You, was released worldwide by Netflix on February 16, 2018.Films Discussed: GreasePhantasmHalloweenWhen Harry Met SallyParenthoodPhysicalUPGoodnight MommyKung Fu Panda 2FrozenThe WarriorsJurassic ParkStranger ThingsLast night in Soho (Edgar Wright)Mission ImpossibleKnives OutPoltergeistChuckyCoralineBeetlejuiceEdward ScissorhandsDug DaysWilly Wonka and the Chocolate Factory New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram

This week, Richard Shephard joins Jessica Kantor on Raising Cinephiles. His career has spanned 30 years of creating film, and TV of all shapes and sizes. His newest documentary, FILM GEEK, is screening in Los Angeles on September 22nd at the American Cinematheque. It's a personal film about his love of cinema and his relationship with his father. We discuss everything from story structure to sharing his passion for film with his two stepchildren.Buy Tickets HereFILM GEEK is a joyous and emotional look back at a movie-obsessed kid growing up in New York City and his relationship with his mysterious father. Crafted entirely out of film clips from over 200 movies, as well as his personal archives, Emmy and DGA award-winning director Richard Shepard (THE MATADOR with Pierce Brosnan) mines the material for clues to understand his own cinematic DNAFilms Discussed:Wizard of OzKing KongFriday the 13The GodfatherRaiders of the Lost ArkClose EncountersChoose MeHeartbreakers Ugly BettyLost in TranslationGirlsApocalypse NowHandmaid's TaleLolita New Episodes Every Wednesday!EPISODE CREDITS:Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica KantorBooker: Noelia MurphyBe sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on Instagram