Sci-Fi Talk

In this episode, Tony sits down with Pixar animator Gario Cuevas to explore his haunting independent film Hazard — a supernatural thriller that trades jump scares for psychological unease. Known for his work in animation, Cuevas steps into live-action with a story that's as emotionally charged as it is chilling. Hazard follows Jane (Joanna Kay), whose car breaks down on the edge of a quiet town. While waiting for help, she's dared to summon a local ghost — a challenge that spirals into a disturbing encounter with the lingering presence of a mass shooter. What begins as a dare becomes a reckoning with trauma, memory, and the unseen forces that haunt forgotten places.

In this episode, Tony chatted with director Eduardo Rodriguez to sink his teeth into Fright Night 2: New Blood, a stylish reimagining of the cult classic with a seductive twist. Filmed in the shadowy corners of Romania, this American indie horror follows high schooler Charley Brewster and his friends on a study abroad trip gone terrifyingly wrong. Their professor, the alluring Gerri Dandridge — played with icy charm by Defiance's Jaime Murray — isn't just grading papers… she's hunting prey.

In this haunting throwback episode, we revisit the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of Honeymoon, the chilling debut feature from director Leigh Janiak. Joining her is star Harry Treadaway (Penny Dreadful, Mr. Mercedes), whose performance as Paul anchors the film's descent into psychological horror. Set in a remote lakeside cabin, Honeymoon follows newlyweds Bea and Paul as their idyllic retreat spirals into dread. After a night of strange events, Paul finds Bea disoriented in the woods. What follows is a slow unraveling of identity, intimacy, and trust — a terrifying meditation on the fear that the person you love may no longer be who they seem. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today On Plus

In this special throwback episode, we sit down with the ever-compelling William Fichtner to explore the craft behind some of his most memorable roles. From covert ops to cosmic wonder, Fichtner brings a quiet intensity to every performance—and in this conversation, we unpack how he does it.

In this episode, Tony dives into the psychological horror series The Expecting with star AnnaSophia Robb and director Mary Harron. The story follows a young woman whose unexpected pregnancy spirals into a surreal and terrifying ordeal — blending body horror, paranoia, and questions of identity.

In this special sit-down, Byte welcomes powerhouse performers Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Maika Monroe to talk about their roles in the bold new reimagining of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. With sharp insight and infectious chemistry, the duo opens up about what drew them to this psychological thriller and how it reclaims the original's legacy for a new generation.

In this episode of Byte, we sit down with visionary director Michelle Garza Cervera to talk about her bold and haunting reimagining of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. Known for her genre-defying work in horror and psychological drama, Cervera brings a fresh, feminist lens to the 2025 revival of the 1992 cult classic.

In this special double-feature episode, we revisit two vintage conversations with the incomparable Christopher Judge — the voice and soul behind Teal'c, Stargate SG-1's stoic warrior with a heart of gold. Across these candid interviews, Judge opens up about his time on the iconic sci-fi series, sharing behind-the-scenes memories, favorite episodes, and the deep camaraderie that defined the cast. From the early days of SG-1 to the emotional weight of The Ark of Truth, Judge reflects on the evolution of Teal'c, the show's enduring fanbase, and the creative choices that made Stargate a genre-defining phenomenon. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the series anew, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the legacy of Stargate through the eyes of one of its most beloved stars. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today

In this special Rewind episode, we journey back to New York Comic Con for an electrifying conversation with 12 Monkeys co-executive producers Travis Fickett and Terry Matalas, joined by the unforgettable Emily Hampshire, who brings Jennifer Goines to life with chaotic brilliance. Season One of 12 Monkeys reimagines the cult classic film into a sprawling, time-twisting saga — and this episode dives deep into the creative process, character evolution, and the show's bold narrative risks. From unraveling paradoxes to crafting emotionally grounded sci-fi, Fickett and Matalas share how they built a world where time isn't just a backdrop — it's a weapon. Emily Hampshire reflects on embodying Jennifer's fractured genius and how the role challenged and transformed her as a performer. 

Recorded live at San Diego Comic-Con 2012, this episode of Rewind drops you into the heart of the action with an roundtable conversation featuring the cast and executive producers of Falling Skies. As Season Two unfolded with new revelations and shifting alliances, we sat down with the creative minds and faces behind the resistance to unpack the emotional and narrative stakes of the series.

In this episode, Tony sits down with Eric Bromberg, the visionary head of Dust Studios, to explore the birth of a cinematic universe dedicated to science fiction shorts and features. Recorded in 2018, this conversation captures the early momentum behind DUST—a platform that would go on to redefine how audiences discover and engage with speculative storytelling. Eric shares the origin story of DUST, from its mission to spotlight emerging sci-fi filmmakers to its ambition to become the go-to destination for short-form genre content. He discusses the studio's curatorial approach, the emotional and philosophical themes that drive their selections, and how DUST bridges the gap between indie creators and global audiences hungry for new worlds. Start Your Free One Year Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today  

In this installment of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, I dive into the uncanny valley of artificial intelligence and the human psyche with the host of Suspicious Minds, Sean King O'Grady . From chatbot roleplay to AI-induced delusions, this episode explores the psychological terrain where machine learning meets mental health—and where reality begins to blur.

In this red carpet edition of Byte, we step into the haunting elegance of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Hulu's latest psychological thriller that reimagines maternal fear, power, and control.

In this episode of Byte, sit down interviews with the creative minds and rising stars behind Black Phone 2 to explore how horror and science fiction continue to reveal the deepest corners of the human experience.

In this episode, we beam back to 1951 to explore the enduring legacy of The Day The Earth Stood Still, a sci-fi landmark that fused Cold War anxiety with cosmic diplomacy. From the casting of Michael Rennie as the enigmatic Klaatu to the cryptic command that launched a thousand theories—“Klaatu barada nikto”—we unpack the film's cultural resonance and behind-the-scenes revelations. Tony dives into the film's production secrets, including the surprising contributor behind Professor Barnhardt's blackboard equation, the actor who nearly broke character with laughter, and the unexpected architectural pedigree behind the spaceship's interior. Plus, we examine the Department of Defense's real-world reaction to the film's message and the haunting resurrection of Klaatu—what it meant then, and what it still stirs today.

This week's episode of Explore Weekly dives into the latest buzz from Hollywood and beyond, spotlighting blockbuster updates, heartfelt tributes, and deep creative insights from the stars and creators shaping pop culture. Tron: Ares Box Office Update The third installment in the Tron franchise, Tron: Ares, has pulled in $60.5 million at the box office so far, following its October 10 U.S. release. Directed by Joachim Rønning and starring Jared Leto, the film explores the collision of digital and real worlds with a $180 million budget. The Making of Tron Lightcycles A behind-the-scenes look at how the futuristic Lightcycles were conceptualized and brought to life for Tron: Ares, blending digital artistry with real-world engineering. Zoe Saldana on Motion Capture Mastery Saldana shares her journey mastering motion capture, from Avatar to Guardians of the Galaxy, and how the technology transforms performance. Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 1 Runtimes Get the scoop on how long each episode of Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 1 will run, with fans bracing for extended storytelling in the final chapter.

In this episode, we sit down with legendary make-up designer Donald Mowat, Department Head of Make-up for Tron: Ares, to explore the artistry behind one of the most anticipated sci-fi films of the decade. From crafting the digital-meets-human aesthetic to collaborating with iconic actors and creatives, Donald shares an insider's view of bringing the Grid to life.

Ernest Lilly and Tony Tellado talked with celebrated science fiction author and physicist David Brin, whose works have shaped the genre and challenged readers to think critically about technology, society, and the future. Brin, best known for novels like The Postman, Earth, and Startide Rising, shares insights into the intersection of science and storytelling, the ethical dilemmas posed by emerging technologies, and the role of science fiction in shaping public discourse. Start Your Free Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

In this episode, I Zoom with  Alexandra Masangkay, who brings the fierce and enigmatic Paz to life in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. Alexandra shares what instantly drew her to the character when she first read the script, and how Paz's complexity and emotional depth made her irresistible to play. We dive into Paz's powerful connection to True Love, exploring the layers of loyalty, vulnerability, and survival that define their bond. Alexandra also opens up about stepping into the iconic Walking Dead universe—what it's like to join such a legendary franchise, and how the gritty, post-apocalyptic world of Daryl Dixon challenged and inspired her as an actor. Plus, a look at the pivotal episode “Contrabando,” where Paz's choices take center stage and the stakes reach a whole new level. 

In this star-studded episode of Byte, we hit the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of Black Phone 2 —a bold new chapter from Blumhouse and Universal. With exclusive audio from the event, we dive into the minds behind the movie and explore the risks, artistry, and vision that shaped this thrilling sequel.

Step onto the grid with us in this electrifying episode of Byte, recorded live from the European premiere of Tron Ares. We're bringing you exclusive red carpet audio—courtesy of Disney—and candid insights from the stars and creatives behind the highly anticipated sci-fi epic.

In this concluding episode of Rewind On The Boys, we go full throttle into the heart of Season Two with an all-star Zoom roundtable featuring the powerhouse cast: Jack Quaid (Hughie), Erin Moriarty (Starlight), Karl Urban (Billy Butcher), Laz Alonso (Mother's Milk), Chace Crawford (The Deep), and Jesse T. Usher (A-Train). From behind-the-scenes chaos to character deep dives, this candid conversation pulls back the curtain on the season's biggest twists, emotional gut-punches, and fan-favorite moments. Hear firsthand how the cast navigated the show's wild tone, bonded off-screen, and brought their characters to life in one of the most talked-about seasons of television. Start Your Free One year Trial Today On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Welcome to Explore Weekly, your cosmic compass for the latest in sci-fi, horror, comics, and fantasy. This week's roundup is bursting with streaming hits, a spooky list, Broadway-bound musicals, and interplanetary intrigue:

In this revealing conversation, we sit down with Michael Emerson during the height of Lost's cultural dominance to unpack the layered, elusive, and often unsettling character of Ben Linus—or was it Henry Gale? From his chilling debut as a mysterious captive to his evolution into one of television's most complex antagonists, Emerson shares insights into the psychological depth, moral ambiguity, and quiet menace that made Ben unforgettable. We explore:

Boldly going where speculation meets celebration, Trek Tuesday has Jeremy Vilmur of Strange New Pod—to explore the final frontier of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Recorded during the lead-up to Season 2, each episode was a spirited mix of deep Trek lore, character analysis, and hopeful predictions for what lay ahead.

In this episode, I chat with the multitalented Chris Giarmo—vocalist, performer, and now solo artist behind the  new tracks of Boys Don't Fight, featuring the sci-fi-inspired Megaman. You may know Chris from his standout role in the Broadway production of American Utopia, where his voice helped bring David Byrne's vision to life. But today, we dive into Chris's own creative universe.

In this episode of Byte, A look at the pulse of Tron Ares with two of its stars—Evan Peters and Gillian Anderson—as they share insights into their roles and the film's bold direction.

In this electrifying episode of Byte, we dive deep into the digital frontier of Tron Ares with star and producer Jared Leto and visionary director Joachim Rønning.

Episode Title: Behind the Masks: Conflict & Connection in The Boys Season Two Description: In this electrifying first installment of our two-part roundtable series, Rewind On The Boys dives deep into the emotional and explosive dynamics of Season Two. Host [Your Name] welcomes an all-star Zoom panel featuring: Antony Starr (Homelander) Aya Cash (Stormfront) Giancarlo Esposito (Stan Edgar) Eric Kripke (Showrunner) Karen Fukuhara (Kimiko) Tomer Capon (Frenchie) Together, they unpack the season's most intense character conflicts, shifting alliances, and the fragile relationships that define the show's gritty heart. From Homelander's unraveling psyche to Kimiko and Frenchie's evolving bond, no emotional beat is left unexplored. Highlights include: How real-world tensions shaped the season's themes The cast's take on power, trauma, and redemption Behind-the-scenes stories from pivotal scenes Eric Kripke on balancing satire with soul Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the chaos, this episode offers rare insight into the minds behind the mayhem.

In this episode, we dive deep into the shadows of Gotham with Joe Sutliffe Sanders, author of Batman: The Animated Series, a scholarly yet accessible exploration of one of the most beloved animated shows of all time. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering the series, this conversation peels back the layers of what makes Batman: The Animated Series so enduring, influential, and artistically groundbreaking.

In this episode ,I chat with Jason Sperling, director of the sci-fi short film Crash Site, which has garnered over 600,000 views on YouTube and sparked conversations about first contact, and curiosity Jason shares the film's origin story, including his early connection with The Walking Dead's Steven Yeun, and how that relationship helped shape the creative journey behind Crash Site. With a sharp script and visual effects that enhance rather than overwhelm, Crash Site explores the moment we might meet something — or someone — beyond ourselves. But the real story is about us: our need to know, to reach out, and maybe, as Jason candidly reflects, our assumption that we'll be answered. Is it hubris to believe we're the center of the universe? Or is it simply human? We also dive into themes of curiosity and exploration — core elements of this podcast's mission to explore humanity. Why do some of us feel compelled to ask questions, to push boundaries, to make contact? And what does that say about who we are?

 It's Trek Tuesday again,  with  a special guest joining us, the incredibly talented Roberto Campanella! Roberto is an award-winning choreographer who recently worked on the mesmerizing Star Trek episode "Subspace Rhapsody." We'll be diving into the behind-the-scenes details of this musical extravaganza and exploring how Roberto's choreography brought the episode to life. From the challenges of coordinating dance numbers to the seamless integration of storytelling, singing, and dancing, Roberto reveals the secrets behind creating a truly captivating performance. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today.  

In this expansive episode of Rewind, host Tony brings together a constellation of voices from the groundbreaking Nat Geo series Mars. Compiled from one-on-one and roundtable interviews at NYCC, SDCC, and a special New York Mars event, this episode explores the intersection of science fiction and science fact through the lens of one of television's most ambitious hybrid series.

In this episode of Byte, we go beyond the screen to meet the creative minds who shaped the look, feel, and emotional texture of The Long Walk, Lionsgate's chilling adaptation of Stephen King's dystopian classic.

In this special episode of Byte, we step into the boots of the young actors who bring The Long Walk to life. Adapted from Stephen King's chilling dystopian novel, the film follows 100 teenage boys forced to walk without rest—until only one remains. Audio provided by Lionsgate.

Tony Tellado caught with this visionary artist and storyteller James Gurney, creator of the beloved Dinotopia series, at a convention. Gurney shares the origins of his fantastical world where humans and dinosaurs coexist in harmony, and reflects on the immersive storytelling, intricate world-building, and painterly techniques that brought it to life. From floating cities to dinosaur philosophers, Gurney's work invites readers into a utopia built on cooperation, curiosity, and wonder. This conversation explores the creative process behind Dinotopia, the balance between realism and imagination, and the enduring appeal of illustrated storytelling.

A journey back to Gotham's golden age of animation with exclusive roundtable interviews from New York Comic Con 2018. Join host Tony as he sat down with the creative titans and voice legends behind Batman: The Animated Series, including:

Host Tony Tellado chatted with the legendary science fiction author Ben Bova to discuss his novel Mars Life, part of his sweeping Grand Tour series. The conversation explores the ethical and scientific dilemmas of Martian exploration, the tension between religious fundamentalism and scientific inquiry, and Bova's vision for humanity's future among the stars. Bova shares his thoughts on terraforming, the search for extraterrestrial life, and why Mars should remain pristine while we study its secrets. His insights are sharp, provocative, and deeply rooted in decades of science-informed storytelling.

I go behind the icy curtain of The Wandering Earth, China's landmark sci-fi blockbuster, with special visual effects supervisor Samir Ansari of Pixomondo. From making digitalsnow look real  to planetary propulsion systems, Samir walks us through the creative and technical feats that brought this frozen apocalypse to life. We explore the cross-cultural collaboration between Pixomondo and the Chinese production team, diving into the challenges and rewards of working across languages, workflows, and cinematic traditions. Samir shares how trust and visual storytelling became the universal language on set.

My dive into the sonic world of Spark Hunter, the high-concept audio drama starring Rebecca Ferguson and Mark Rylance. Set against a backdrop of surveillance, suspicion, and existential stakes, the story follows Spark Hunter—an AI so advanced she's deemed rogue by the U.S. government. Over one final dinner with her creator, the question looms: is she a threat to humanity, or its last hope? A conversation with writer KB Miller and Teresa Tunney  Start You Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today  

In this episode of Byte, we sit down with Jeremiah Fraites—co-founder of The Lumineers—as he reflects on his cinematic debut composing the score for The Long Walk, the chilling adaptation of Stephen King's novel. Thanks to Lionsgate for the audio provided.

In this episode of Byte, director Francis Lawrence takes us behind the sonic curtain of The Long Walk, the haunting adaptation of Stephen King's dystopian classic. Known for his cinematic collaborations with artists like the Lumineers, Lawrence shares how his long-standing creative rapport with Jeremiah Fraites—co-founder of the band—led to Fraites' selection as composer for the film. Special thanks to Lionsgate for the audio.

In one of the most emotionally resonant roundtable sessions I've ever attended, the cast of Fringe gathered at San Diego Comic-Con to reflect on their groundbreaking series and share insights into the journey ahead for their final season. This intimate conversation is a heartfelt tribute to the show's legacy and a gift to fans who've followed its twists, timelines, and transformations.