Sci-Fi Talk

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.

In this episode of Rewind, we crack open the creaky doors of Shining Vale, the satirical horror-comedy that dares to ask: what if your midlife crisis was actually a possession? Featuring  interviews with cast members Mira Sorvino, Judith Light, Merrin Dungey, Dylan Gage, Gus Birney, and co-creator Jeff Astrof, we explore the haunted house at the center of the series—and the haunted minds of the characters who live there. From the ghostly glamour of Rosemary (Sorvino) to the lithium-laced sharpness of Joan (Light), each character offers a layered look at identity, trauma, and transformation. Astrof shares how the show balances horror tropes with biting humor, while the cast reflects on the emotional shifts their characters undergo across two seasons.

In this episode, I chatted with Prospect's breakout star Sophie Thatcher—known for her haunting turn in The Exorcist Season One—and co-director Zeek Earl to explore the making of one of indie sci-fi's most atmospheric gems.

"The Apocalypse: First Wave” In this special Rewind episode, we travel back to the electrifying atmosphere of New York Comic Con 2010, where The Walking Dead was just days away from its world premiere. Recorded live at the Jacob Javits Center, this roundtable features candid, early reflections from the cast and creators who would go on to redefine modern horror television. Join host Tony as he sits down with:

Guests: Enrico Colantoni – Mathesar, the earnest Thermian leader Missi Pyle – Laliari, the wide-eyed Thermian engineer In this delightfully weird and wonderful episode of Byte, Tony chatted with Enrico Colantoni and Missi Pyle for a mini-reunion that celebrates the cult classic Galaxy Quest. With warmth, wit, and a few tentacle jokes, the two actors reflect on their time as Thermians—those lovable, tentacled aliens who misunderstood Earth's sci-fi as historical fact. Thermian Talk & Tentacle Technique → Enrico and Missi share how they developed the alien speech patterns and body language that became iconic. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Tony chats with One of the creative minds behind Doctor Who: The Runaway, the animated VR short that lets fans step inside the TARDIS and join the Doctor on a high-stakes mission across space and time. With Jodie Whittaker reprising her role as the Thirteenth Doctor, this Oculus Rift experience blends storytelling, interactivity, and sci-fi spectacle in a way that feels like you're really there—sonic screwdriver in hand. Tony shares his own gameplay impressions, describing the thrill of scanning alien lifeforms, dodging galactic threats, and navigating the TARDIS interior with full 360° immersion.  Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today 

Guest: Brennan Lee Mulligan – Game Master, Writer, Performer, and Co-Creator of Dimension 20. Legendary Game Master Brennan Lee Mulligan joined me us to discuss the creation of his original online board game—a genre-bending experiment that blends classic tabletop mechanics with digital storytelling flair. Known for his work on Dimension 20, Brennan dives deep into the philosophy of game design, the emotional architecture of roleplay, and the collaborative magic that fuels his crew's RPG adventures. Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

This limited podcast series starts off with one of the driving forces of this classic series in Bruce W. Timm from the roundtables at NYCC. Some great insights into the creation of an animated classic. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Former Journalist and now producer of documentaries talks about two episodes of Shock Docs on UFO abductions on the Betty And Barney Hill and The Travis Walton cases Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Interview with the author of Star Trek Nerd Search Quibbles With Tribbles. We chat some Dr Who too. Start Your Free One Year Trial With Sci-Fi Talk Plus

A 59-Year Celebration Through Voices, Memories, and Missions My combined three-volume oral history and tribute, weaving together rare interviews, behind-the-scenes reflections, and heartfelt anecdotes from cast and crew across Star Trek: First Contact, Insurrection, and Nemesis. Supplemented by intimate conversations with actors from The Next Generation, Voyager, Deep Space Nine, Enterprise, and even a special Star Trek literary event.   Featuring 

A hundred years from now, humanity reaches for the stars—and pays the price for hope. In this episode of Rewind, showrunners Jonathan Glassner (Stargate SG-1) and Dean Devlin (The Ark, Independence Day) take us behind the scenes of their latest sci-fi survival saga. The story follows a ship of colonists en route to Proxima Centauri B, Earth's nearest habitable neighbor. But when a catastrophic systems failure kills the command crew and most of the technical staff, the mission becomes a desperate fight for survival.

Choreographer for the Subspace Rhapsody episode Roberto Campenella talks putting the dance sequences together and gives us a lesson in the simplest being the hardest.   Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

In this special edition of Trends, we dive deep into the evolving world of artificial intelligence—its promises, its pitfalls, and its place in our collective imagination. From speculative fiction to real-world innovation, this episode brings together a dynamic mix of voices shaping how we think about AI.

News on New Frankenstein movie at Venice Film Festival. DC Vs Marvel comparison from Frank Grillo, Dinos in Jurassic World video game, plus a demand from Stephen King in The Long Walk. Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today  

Rewind features my interview with Mickey Sumner, Iddo Goldberg, and Rowan Blanchard. It's a thoughtful conversation that dives into character psychology, the show's sociopolitical allegories, and the actors' collaborative dynamics on set.  Rowan Blanchard & Mickey Sumner Interview: explores how Alexandra Cavill and Bess Till navigate grief, loyalty, and moral ambiguity. Iddo Goldberg Interview: offers a look into Bennett Knox's role in Layton's pirate train mission. Bonus Comments: Timothy V Murphy Start Your Free trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today  

This week on Trek Tuesday, we beam into convention territory with the legendary Vaughn Armstrong, whose theatrical roots brought unforgettable depth to the Star Trek universe. With a staggering 12 distinct characters across 27 episodes—including five on Voyager alone—Armstrong's versatility is a masterclass in transformation. From Klingons to Cardassians, and most memorably as Admiral Forrest on Star Trek: Enterprise, his performances are etched into Trek lore.

In this roundtable conversation, actors Rory Alexander and Sadhbh Malin join us to explore their transformative roles as young Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser and Jocasta Cameron in Outlander: Blood of My Blood. As the prequel breathes new life into beloved characters, Rory and Sadhbh share how they navigated the emotional terrain of portraying younger versions of figures already etched into fans' hearts. From the subtle tension of unspoken affection to the weight of inherited grief, they unpack the complexity of Murtagh and Jocasta's evolving relationship—one shaped by longing, loyalty, and the shadow of Ellen MacKenzie. We dive into the challenges of playing “the right emotions” opposite each other, especially when the characters' futures are already known to the audience. Costume as Character: Both actors discuss how their period costumes helped shape posture, presence, and emotional authenticity Uncomfortable Scenes: Behind-the-scenes stories of filming emotionally raw or physically demanding moments, and how trust between castmates made all the difference Moments of Joy: Rory and Sadhbh share their favorite “pleasant scenes”—from quiet walks on set to spontaneous laughter during rehearsals Start Your Free Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

In this unnerving installment of Byte, we sit down with Ben Hardy and Mia Tomlinson—stars of The Conjuring: Last Rites—for a Zoom interview provided by Warner Bros. The actors portray Tony Smurl and Judy Warren, a real-life couple who moved into a duplex in West Pittston, Pennsylvania, only to face a series of escalating paranormal events: foul odors, slamming doors, dragged furniture, phantom voices, unexplained bruises—and something far more sinister lurking in the shadows. Hardy and Tomlinson share what it was like to speak directly with the real Tony and Judy, and how those conversations shaped their performances. They reflect on stepping into the emotionally charged world of the Conjuring franchise, working alongside horror legends Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, and collaborating with director Michael Chaves, whose joyful energy helped balance the darkness of the story. Commercial-Free + Companion Video Available on Sci-Fi Talk Plus

In this hauntingly heartfelt Zoom interview, Byte welcomes back franchise icons Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga to discuss their final outing as Ed and Lorraine Warren in The Conjuring: Last Rites. With interviews provided by Warner Bros., the duo reflects on over a decade of supernatural storytelling, and why audiences continue to connect with the franchise's blend of terror and tenderness. They also share behind-the-scenes insights into working with director Michael Chaves, whose joyful energy helped shape the tone of this cinematic swan song. Commercial-Free + Companion Video Available on Sci-Fi Talk Plus  

In this special retrospective episode, we revisit three years of live conversations with Kevin Bacon at New York Comic Con, tracing the emotional and psychological evolution of FBI agent Ryan Hardy from The Following. From the show's explosive debut to its final season, Bacon reflects on Hardy's unraveling psyche, his battle with addiction, and the twisted intimacy between hunter and hunted. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today. 

This week on Explore Weekly, we dive into a genre-rich roundup of the biggest stories in entertainment—from supernatural satire to superhero synergy. Michael Sheen teases the ineffable return of Good Omens, Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein prepares to electrify Venice, and Stephen King's The Institute gets a chilling season two renewal. Plus, we unpack the cultural phenomenon of KPop Demon Hunters, explore the viral screen test that crowned David Corenswet as Superman, and decode the latest DC Studios crossover buzz between Batman and the Man of Steel. We also spotlight the evolution of Peacemaker in season two, with fresh Easter eggs and canon shifts, and offer a heartfelt review of Upload season four—Prime Video's digital afterlife comedy that ends with a surprisingly emotional punch. Start Your Free One Year Trial on Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

This week, we fire up the retroscope and revisit one of sci-fi cinema's most iconic invasions: George Pal's War of the Worlds (1953). From its long and winding road to production to the unforgettable cobra-headed Martian war machines, we explore how this Cold War-era classic redefined alien terror for the big screen. You'll hear how producer George Pal—Hollywood's original sci-fi visionary—brought H.G. Wells' Victorian apocalypse into postwar Southern California, swapping tripods for manta rays and existential dread for atomic-age spectacle. We break down the casting of Gene Barry as Dr. Clayton Forrester, surrounded by a rich ensemble of veteran character actors, and how their grounded performances helped sell the surreal. We also dive into the film's bold departures from the novel: The shift in setting and tone The redesign of the Martians and their technology  And of course, we spotlight the unforgettable war machine design by art director Albert Nozaki—those sleek, levitating death-dealers with cobra-like necks and heat rays that helped the film win an Oscar for Best Visual Effects. Highlights Include:

This week on Trek Tuesday, we dive into one of the most provocative episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3—“What Is Starfleet?”—with special guest Mynor Luken, who plays Beto Ortegas, the civilian documentarian aboard the Enterprise.

Before Godzilla, before Rogue One, Gareth Edwards was a one-man army with a camera, a laptop, and a dream. In this throwback episode of Byte, we revisit our early conversation with Edwards just after the release of his breakout indie sci-fi film, Monsters (2010)—a haunting, low-budget marvel that redefined what guerrilla filmmaking could achieve.

The Make-Up Designer for Tron Ares teased me about the movie during a break from filming last year.  Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today.