More podcasts from Tony Tellado

Search for episodes from Sci-Fi Talk with a specific topic:

Latest episodes from Sci-Fi Talk

Widow's Bay By Design

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2026 14:24


Widow's Bay: Crafting Worlds with Emmy Nominees Steve Arnold & Jennifer Engel In this behind‑the‑scenes deep dive, Tony sits down over Zoom with Steve Arnold, Emmy‑nominated Production Designer, and Jennifer Engel, Emmy‑nominated Set Decorator for Widow's Bay. Together, they unpack the creative engineering behind one of television's most atmospheric series — from designing entire environments across multiple soundstages to sourcing the unusual, character‑defining props that give the show its eerie, lived‑in texture. They also share candid reflections on receiving Emmy nominations, what recognition means at this stage in their careers, and how the collaborative spirit of Widow's Bay shaped every frame. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Emily Hampshire: Becoming Jennifer Goines: Chaos, Comedy & Control

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2026 31:12


Emily Hampshire interview is always electric — she's one of those performers whose mind moves as fast as her characters. As Jennifer Goines on 12 Monkeys, she delivered one of the most unpredictable, heartbreaking, and darkly hilarious performances in modern sci‑fi. And now, with a slate of recent projects ranging from horror‑thrillers to sharp indie dramas, she's in one of the most creatively exciting phases of her career. This conversation explores how she built Jennifer's fractured psyche, why she loves characters who “don't care about being liked,” and how her career has expanded into bold new territory. SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY

"Being Human: The Monster Within Us”

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2026 20:09


From the red‑carpet special, Tony spoke with the U.S. cast of Syfy's Being Human at the Paley Center in New York. during the run of the series — starring Sam Witwer, Meaghan Rath, Sam Huntington, and Sarah Allen — reimagined the supernatural roommate concept with surprising emotional depth. Running from 2011 to 2014, the show became a breakout hit, marking Syfy's strongest winter scripted launch in nearly a decade. Alongside the cast, Tony also interviews Mark Stern, then President of Original Programming at Syfy, who reflects on why Being Human resonated so powerfully with audiences. SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY  

Lisa Ryder on Becoming Beka Valentine

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2026 21:22


Three centuries after the fall of the Systems Commonwealth, the Andromeda Ascendant awakens into chaos — and standing at the captain's right hand is Beka Valentine, the fiercely loyal, sharp‑witted first officer who helped chart a path toward rebuilding civilization. In this rare vintage interview with Lisa Ryder talking about the role that when the series was young.  The role earned her a Gemini Award nomination for Best Performance in a Featured Supporting Role. SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY

“Resistance Is Futile: Celebrating 30 Years of Star Trek: First Contact”

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2026 13:15


For the 30th anniversary of Star Trek: First Contact, Trek Tuesday presents a rare and lovingly reconstructed special drawn from Tony's original Beverly Hills roundtable, long‑lost New York radio segments, and a recent conversation with Jonathan Frakes. This anniversary episode brings together the voices who defined one of the most celebrated films in the franchise: Patrick Stewart, Rick Berman, Alice Krige, Brent Spiner, James Cromwell, Alfre Woodard, LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn, and Jonathan Frakes. SAVE 17% ON PLUS, TODAY  

Cosmos Episode Four: Crafting a Modern Legacy

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2026 14:05


In the final installment of your Cosmos series, Tony sits down with Mitchell Cannold and Brannon Braga, the executive producers who helped shape Cosmos: A SpaceTime Odyssey and Cosmos: Possible Worlds. This episode explores how they preserved the spirit of Carl Sagan while reinventing Cosmos for a new generation — visually, narratively, and philosophically. SAVE 17% ON PLUS WITH A CLICK

Byte — Moana: Red Carpet World Premiere

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2026 10:09


Legacy, Ocean, and the Voices Who Carry the Story Forward On the red carpet for the World Premiere of Moana, with the filmmakers, performers, cultural leaders, and craftspeople who brought this new chapter of Moana's journey to life. From the screenplay to the choreography, from costume design to visual effects, this episode reveals how a global phenomenon stays rooted in Pacific identity and storytelling. Thanks to Disney Pictures for the audio.  Featuring Dana Ledoux Miller, Auli'i Cravalho, Catherine Laga'aia, Emma Puahi‑Shapazian, Amaya Masoli, Frankie Adams, John Tui, Lin‑Manuel Miranda, Maia Kayser, Rena Owen, Thomas Kail, Tiana Nonosina Liufau, and Liz McGregor.

Byte: The Odyssey: A Modern Epic Reborn

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2026 11:23


A dive into the ambitious new adaptation of The Odyssey, featuring an ensemble cast that reimagines Homer's timeless tale through character, consequence, and cosmic law. From the burden of heroism to the fragile threads of family, this conversation explores how ancient myth becomes urgent, human storytelling. Sit down with Matt Damon (Odysseus), Anne Hathaway (Penelope), Tom Holland (Telemachus), John Leguizamo (Eumaeus), Himesh Patel (Eurylochus), and writer‑director Christopher Nolan, along with Lupita Nyong'o (Helen of Troy) and Jon Bernthal (Menelaus). Additional reflections come from Benny Safdie (Agamemnon), Zendaya (Athena), Samantha Morton (Circe), and Damon again on the power of this cast. Themes That Hit Hard The Law of Zeus — not just divine rule, but the moral architecture of the universe. Homecoming vs. Identity — what remains of a person after years of war and wandering. Faith, Fate, and Defiance — the eternal tension between mortal will and cosmic design. Family as Myth — the stories we inherit, the ones we rewrite, and the ones we fight to return to. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Raised by Wolves: Faith, Fear & the Future of Humanity

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2026 39:43


In this episode of Rewind, Tony revisits the ambitious sci‑fi series Raised by Wolves, a haunting tale of two androids — Mother and Father — tasked with raising human children on the distant world of Kepler‑22b after Earth collapses under religious war. Though short‑lived, the series carved out a unique space in modern science fiction, blending existential dread with intimate questions about parenting, belief, and what it means to be human. Tony chats with two of the voices who shaped the show's soul: Aaron Guzikowski — series creator Abubakar Salim — Father, the steadfast caretaker android Kepler‑22b is more than a setting — it's a crucible. A barren, mysterious landscape where survival is fragile and belief systems collide.  SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY  

We Are What We Are: The Planet Hollywood Sit‑Down

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2026 18:34


Tony revisits the haunting 2013 Sundance breakout We Are What We Are, a slow‑burn horror drama that redefined the cannibal‑family subgenre with emotional depth and atmospheric dread. The film — now streaming on Netflix, Prime Video, Roku Channel (as of July), Tubi, Fawesome, and Pluto TV — remains a landmark in modern American horror. Tony speaks with the filmmakers and cast who shaped its unsettling world: Nick Damici — co‑writer and cast member Jim Mickle — director Bill Sage — Frank Parker, the patriarch Julia Garner — a rising talent whose performance signaled a major career ahead Set against relentless rain and rural isolation, We Are What We Are follows the Parker family as they cling to a ritualistic, generational secret. Mickle and Damici's adaptation of the Mexican original transforms the story into a meditation on grief, faith, and the terror of inherited duty. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Journey to Arrakis — Episode 3: Brian Herbert

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2026 46:19


Brian Herbert reflects on the extraordinary process of interpreting and expanding the notes his father left behind. He discusses: The discovery of Frank Herbert's outline for the final Dune novel The emotional weight of continuing a story his father began Collaborating with Kevin J. Anderson to honor the original intent while expanding the universe Featured Audio: A Moment from the Dune Audio Series Courtesy of Macmillan Audio, listeners hear a vivid excerpt from the Dune Audio series — a moment that captures the tension, mysticism, and grandeur of the later Dune novels. This immersive clip anchors the conversation in the sound and spirit of Arrakis, offering a sensory bridge between the Herbert legacy and the world they created. SAVE 17% ON PLUS   

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns - Redemption in a Dystopian Gotham

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2026 19:52


Tony revisits the red carpet for Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, the two‑part animated epic directed by Jay Oliva and adapted from Frank Miller's seminal 1986 comic. Released in 2012 and 2013, the films depict a dystopian Gotham where an aging, battle‑scarred Bruce Wayne, now 55, is forced out of retirement as the city collapses under violence, corruption, and moral decay. Conversations with David Selby (Commissioner Gordon), Jay Oliva, and legendary voice director Andrea Romano capture the creative energy behind a story that reshaped how audiences understand Batman — not as a symbol of youth and invincibility, but as a man confronting time, trauma, and the consequences of a lifetime of war. Setting the Stage: Gotham in Decline Ten years after Batman's disappearance, Gotham is overrun by the Mutants, a violent gang whose rise symbolizes societal collapse. Bruce Wayne, haunted by the death of Jason Todd, struggles with aging, guilt, and the fading relevance of his mission. The film's dystopian tone reflects Miller's original intent: a world where institutions fail, heroes fracture, and morality becomes a battlefield. The Dark Knight Returns is a cornerstone of modern superhero storytelling — a meditation on identity, legacy, and the human cost of heroism.  SAVE 17% ON PLUS

Clappers and Takes — Episode One

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2026 23:19


Indie Sci‑Fi, Horror & Fantasy Spotlight Two indie films that approach fear, identity, and the unknown from completely different angles. One is cosmic terror in the woods; the other is a psychological fantasy that turns romance into revelation. Together, they showcase why indie genre filmmaking remains one of the most daring corners of cinema. Extraterrestrial — Colin Minihan's Alien Terror in the Trees A cabin getaway becomes a nightmare when a group of friends witness a mysterious crash in the woods. What they find isn't debris — it's an alien spacecraft, complete with footprints leading away from the impact site. A conversation with Colin Minihan explores how he built tension from isolation, paranoia, and the fear of breaking a cosmic pact. Minihan's approach blends classic alien‑abduction dread with indie grit, making Extraterrestrial a standout for fans of grounded sci‑fi horror. Where to watch: Prime Video and Netflix. Reflections — Anthony Khaseria's Dark Fantasy of Self‑Confrontation A beautiful couple enters a charming café expecting a romantic evening. Instead, they discover a hidden mirror that doesn't show their ideal selves — it shows the truth they've been avoiding. In Reflections, the mirror becomes a portal into a malefic cycle, trapping the couple in a loop where they must confront their inner demons. The film blends fantasy with psychological horror, offering moments that feel almost like a Harry Potter‑style magical reveal, except the magic here exposes unsettling realities rather than wish fulfillment. Khaseria's award‑winning short uses minimalism, atmosphere, and emotional precision to create a story that lingers long after the final frame. It's a reminder that fantasy can be intimate — and terrifying — when it turns inward. Where to watch: YouTube   SAVE 17% On PLUS    

Byte - My Most Popular Shorts on YouTube

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2026 8:57


Enjoy these popular shorts. Maybe they work because they hit the sweet spot — iconic genre performers reflecting on character evolution, emotional truth, and the moments that shaped fan‑favorite stories. This set feels like a curated anthology of sci‑fi, fantasy, and horror insight, each clip delivering a sharp, memorable beat.  Included Are:  Alexander Skarsgård — The Evolution of Murderbot David Dastmalchian — Keeping Humanity Lynn Collins — Revisiting John Carter Andrew Robinson — Garak & Bashir's First Meeting Andrew Lincoln — What Drew Him to The Walking Dead SAVE 17% ON PLUS   

Byte — Evil Dead Burn

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2026 8:51


This episode digs into the newest, blood‑splattered chapter of the Evil Dead legacy — a story that twists grief, family, and demonic possession into a brutal, character‑driven nightmare. With exclusive audio from Warner Bros. and interviews that illuminate the film's creative choices, Evil Dead Burn becomes a showcase of how the franchise keeps evolving while staying ferociously true to its roots. The film centers on a woman reeling from the loss of her husband. Seeking refuge, she retreats to stay with her in‑laws — hoping for comfort, stability, and a chance to breathe again. Instead, she finds herself trapped in a home where the familiar becomes monstrous. One by one, her in‑laws transform into deadites, twisting the bonds of family into weapons of terror. As she fights to survive, she discovers a chilling truth embedded in the film's core theme. The vows she took in life — survive even in death. Interviews & Creative Insights Luciane Buchanan — Becoming a Deadite Tandi Wright & Madeleine Davey — Building the Family Dynamic George Pullar & Erroll Shand — The Art of Prosthetics Hunter Doohan — Playing Joseph Souheila Yacoub — The Mystery of Alice Sébastien Vanicek — Connecting Burn to Evil Dead Lore & Making Something New Connecting Burn to the established lore without repeating what's been done Crafting something unique, with new rules, new emotional stakes, and a fresh visual identity Vanicek explains how he honored the franchise's DNA — the Book, the deadites, the brutality — while pushing the mythology into new territory. SAVE 17% ON PLUS     

A Look at Planet Of The Apes

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2026 10:06


This episode dives deep into the creation of Planet of the Apes (1968), tracing how a bold, philosophical sci‑fi concept became one of cinema's most iconic films. You walk listeners through the production journey, the evolution of the script, the artistry behind the apes, and spotlight three characters whose performances shaped the franchise's legacy. Topics include: Budget realities forced a dramatic pivot: the ape society became pre‑industrial, leaning into horses, huts, and tribal hierarchy. Filming Locations - The production leaned heavily on rugged, natural environments: The Score - Jerry Goldsmith's avant‑garde composition  Shooting The Finale Design Forced perspective shots Matte painting enhancements SAVE MONTHLY ON SCI-Fi TALK PLUS

Explore Monthly July 2026

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2026 9:15


July's episode is stacked — major franchise updates, bold creative swings, industry losses, and one of the biggest “power rankings” lists in fandom history. This edition gives your listeners a clean, high‑impact overview of what's shaping genre storytelling right now. The Stories This Month Silo Season Three Supergirl — Screenwriter Speaks My Take On Supergirl House of the Dragon   Robert Eggers' Werwulf Five Nights at Freddy's 3 Writer  The Death of Robin Hood — Make‑Up & Costumes An Absolute Batman Series CBR's “40 Strongest Fictional Characters of All Time” SAVE MONTHLY ON PLUS WITH A LOW PRICE  

Rewind — Falling Skies Season Three

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2026 52:19


Season Three of Falling Skies opens with a bold time jump, dropping the 2nd Mass into a radically changed world. Charleston has become a fledgling capital, Tom Mason is now President, and humanity is attempting to rebuild while still under the shadow of alien occupation. But the biggest shift is the uneasy alliance with the Volm, a mysterious extraterrestrial race promising salvation from the Espheni. Their arrival brings hope, suspicion, and a new layer of political tension — especially as the 2nd Mass discovers that peace is far from guaranteed. This Comic‑Con roundtable captures the cast and creators reflecting on the season's expanded mythology, evolving characters, and the moral complexity of fighting alongside one alien race to defeat another. SAVE 17% ON PLUS

Bear McCreary: The Sound of Epic Worlds

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2026 19:18


A roundtable with Bear McCreary at San Diego Comic‑Con is a gift — he's one of the few composers whose work doesn't just accompany genre storytelling, it defines it.  Bear McCreary, the Emmy‑nominated composer whose music has shaped some of the most influential genre stories of the last two decades. With six Emmy nominations and a résumé that spans space opera, pirate adventure, apocalyptic horror, dystopian sci‑fi, and high fantasy, McCreary's work has become synonymous with emotional depth and world‑building through sound. SAVE 17% ON PLUS

The Walking Dead — Medina Senghore on Annie Smith

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2026 14:51


In this episode, Tony chattged with Medina Senghore, who brought quiet strength and emotional clarity to Annie Smith in The Walking Dead's final season. Introduced in Season 11, Episode 13 (“Warlords”), Annie emerges as a respected figure within the Riverbend/Riverside community, offering counsel, stability, and moral grounding during one of the show's most politically volatile arcs. Though her time on the series is brief, Annie's presence reshapes the emotional landscape around Negan, revealing a side of him defined not by brutality, but by responsibility, partnership, and the terrifying hope of a future. Her performance balances warmth with resilience — a survivor who has already made peace with the world's darkness and refuses to let it define her family's future. SAVE 17% ON PLUS WITH COMMERICIAL FREE EXCLUSIVES  

Byte Sugar — LA Premiere Red Carpet

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2026 4:32


With Colin Farrell, Laura Donnelly, Jin Ha, Raymond Lee, Sasha Calle, Tony Dalton, Shea Whigham, Gary Tieche & Sam Catlin In this Sugar red‑carpet edition of Byte, Thanks to Apple TV Plus, Tony takes listeners inside the Los Angeles premiere of Apple TV+'s genre‑bending detective series. With interviews from the cast and creative team, this episode explores how Sugar reinvents the private‑investigator story — blending noir, emotional vulnerability, and a quietly radical take on what it means to search for the truth. Colin Farrell breaks down why John Sugar stands apart from every other screen detective. Executive Producer Gary Tieche discusses the creative spark behind the series. Laura Donnelly talks about playing Charlotte, a woman whose past and present collide in ways that pull Sugar deeper into the case. Jin Ha discusses Danny, a character whose choices and secrets drive the season's emotional core. Raymond Lee brings nuance and quiet intensity to Ji, a character whose presence complicates Sugar's investigation. Showrunner Sam Catlin breaks down the architecture of the season. Former Supergirl star Sasha Calle plays Val, a character whose presence adds tension, danger, and unexpected warmth. Tony Dalton brings charisma and edge to Ray Vega, a figure whose charm masks deeper complications. Shea Whigham discusses Tom Flyberg, a character whose presence adds grit and unpredictability to the story. Across the carpet, the cast and creators highlight the themes that define Sugar: The weight of empathy The danger of truth The loneliness of those who help others but rarely help themselves The idea that every mystery is also a mirror Get The Podcast And Video Combo Only On Plus And Save

Byte: Supergirl

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2026 7:57


With Milly Alcock, Jason Momoa, Eve Ridley, Ana Nogueira, James Gunn & Craig Gillespie** In this special sit‑down edition of Byte, Tony dives deep into Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, the bold new chapter of the DC Universe. Courtesy of Warner Bros., this episode features conversations with the film's stars and creative team — exploring the emotional core, cosmic scale, and character‑driven storytelling behind one of DC's most anticipated films. Milly Alcock steps into the cape as Kara Zor‑El, bringing a fierce, wounded, and fiercely hopeful interpretation Jason Momoa brings his trademark intensity and chaotic charm to Lobo, the intergalactic bounty hunter Eve Ridley portrays Ruthye, the young girl whose quest for justice propels Kara across the stars. Ana Nogueira talks about adapting one of DC's most acclaimed modern comics — preserving its emotional brutality while expanding its cinematic scope. James Gunn shares why Woman of Tomorrow is the perfect story to redefine Supergirl for a new era. Director Craig Gillespie brings his kinetic, character‑driven style to the film. Get The Podcast And Video Combo Only On Plus

Rewind: Invincible — Part Two

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2026 24:46


Zazie Beetz, Gillian Jacobs & Simon Racioppa  In the conclusion of this two‑part Rewind on Invincible, Tony turns the spotlight toward the women who help define the show's emotional and moral landscape — Zazie Beetz (Amber Bennett) and Gillian Jacobs (Atom Eve) — along with a bonus conversation with Executive Producer Simon Racioppa on shaping Season Two. Where Part One explored fathers, sons, and the burden of legacy, this episode dives into identity, agency, and the cost of choosing your own path in a world where power can both save and destroy. Zazie Beetz breaks down her approach to Amber, a character who refuses to be overshadowed by the chaos of superhero life. Gillian Jacobs reflects on Atom Eve, one of the show's most complex heroes. Executive Producer Simon Racioppa joins Tony To discuss: The creative philosophy guiding Season Two SAVE 17% ON PLUS AND GET A BONUS VIDEO WITH EVERY EPISODE

Rewind: Invincible — Part One

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2026 17:55


In this first half of a two‑part deep dive, Tony revisits the explosive beginnings of Invincible, the groundbreaking adult animated superhero series created by Robert Kirkman for Amazon Prime Video. Based on the Image Comics series he co‑created with Cory Walker and Ryan Ottley, Invincible redefined what superhero storytelling could be—violent, vulnerable, and unafraid to interrogate legacy, identity, and the cost of power. This episode brings together three of the creative forces who shaped the show's emotional core: Steven Yeun (Mark Grayson / Invincible), J.K. Simmons (Nolan Grayson / Omni‑Man), and Robert Kirkman (Creator / Executive Producer). Steven Yeun reflects on what drew him to Mark: a teenager caught between expectation and self‑discovery.  J.K. Simmons dives into the layered psychology of Nolan Grayson, On What initially attracted him to the role Robert Kirkman breaks down the creative decisions on crafting heroes who feel distinct from their comic‑book counterparts SAVE 17% ON PLUS TO GET THIS EPISODE COMMERICIAL FREE

Rewind Creepshow –More Than the Panels

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2026 36:29


In this , we head to San Diego Comic‑Con for conversations with the artists breathing new life into the iconic horror anthology. From resurrecting the tone of the original film to crafting new stories that drip with pulp, humor, and dread, this is Creepshow as only these creators could tell it. Tricia Helfer Giancarlo Esposito Showrunner Greg Nicotero—a lifelong fan of the original film And More SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY

Brian Yuzna's Tiki Terror

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2026 37:53


In this episode, Tony zoomed with legendary filmmaker Brian Yuzna—the mind behind Re‑Animator, Society, and some of the wildest practical‑effects nightmares ever put on screen. Now he's turning his attention to a new project: Tales of Blood Island, a tropical fever dream blending zombies, voodoo, and the vibrant, uncanny world of Tiki Horror. From pulp comics to Polynesian mythology to mid‑century Tiki culture, Yuzna breaks down how this new anthology taps into a corner of horror that's rarely explored but instantly evocative. Brian Yuzna's Vision — Building a New Island of Horror Yuzna shares how Tales of Blood Island draws from: Classic zombie cinema and Caribbean voodoo folklore Tiki‑bar aesthetics, from carved idols to neon‑lit escapism 1960s tropical horror films, including The Brides of Blood Island The pulpy, transgressive tone of EC Comics and drive‑in creature features He talks about why the Tiki aesthetic—bright, playful, and nostalgic—becomes even more unsettling when corrupted by ritual, rot, and the supernatural. Tiki Horror — A Genre Mashup with Teeth We explore how “Tiki Horror” functions as a hybrid genre, mixing: Tropical island settings with lurking supernatural forces Tiki monster culture, from Kaiju‑adjacent beasts to cursed island guardians Haunted Tiki bars, echoing real‑world attractions like Black Lagoon or Midsummer Scream's island‑themed haunts Beach‑party innocence twisted into ritualistic dread Yuzna explains why this blend works: the clash between paradise and terror creates instant tension. Zombies & Voodoo — Returning to the Roots Yuzna digs into the cultural and cinematic history behind the project's undead elements: The difference between voodoo‑driven zombies and modern infection‑based ones How ritual, belief, and folklore shape the tone of the anthology Why the island setting allows for both intimate horror and large‑scale spectacle Crafting the Anthology — Tales Told in Blood and Bamboo He breaks down the structure of Tales of Blood Island: Standalone stories unified by the island's mythology A rotating cast of characters encountering curses, creatures, and colonial ghosts Practical effects, stylized visuals, and a comic‑book sensibility The tonal balance between camp, terror, and tropical surrealism SAVE 17% ON PLUS

Batman: Death in the Family, Part 1

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 24:59


In this NYCC virtual roundtable edition , Tony zoomed  with the cast and creative mind behind Batman: Death in the Family Part 1, the bold interactive film that revisits — and radically reshapes — the infamous 1988 storyline A Death in the Family. Writer‑director Brandon Vietti, alongside actors Bruce Greenwood, Vincent Martella, and Zehra Fazal, explore how this project reopens one of the darkest chapters in Batman history and invites fans to consider the alternate paths Jason Todd's life could have taken. A Death in the Family was a watershed moment in comic history — a storyline that asked fans to decide a Robin's fate. Batman: Death in the Family Part 1 reopens that wound, reframes the question, and challenges viewers to confront the consequences of choice. SAVE 17% On Plus  

Byte — Toy Story 5: Hollywood Red Carpet

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2026 12:06


Courtesy of Disney Pictures In this star‑packed Hollywood red carpet edition of Byte, Tony brings listeners into the heart of the Toy Story 5 world premiere — a celebration of legacy, reinvention, and the enduring emotional power of Pixar's most beloved franchise. From legendary voices returning to the booth to new cast members stepping into the Toy Story universe for the first time, this episode captures the full spectrum of excitement, nostalgia, and creative insight. Featuring conversations with actors, filmmakers, Pixar leadership, and surprise guests, this is the definitive audio time capsule of the night. Featured Are:  Anna Vocino Bonnie Hunt  Conan O'Brien  Craig Robinson  Greta Lee  Jay Hernandez  Jeff Bergman  Jim Morris — President of Pixar on the studio's evolving creative mission. Pete Docter — Pixar's Chief Creative Officer on crafting stories that endure. Joan Cusack  John Ratzenberger  Kenna Harris  Lindsey Collins  Andrew Stanton  Kristen Schaal  Krys Marshall  Lori Alan  Melissa Villaseñor  Mykal‑Michelle Harris Shelby Rabara Taylor Swift  Tim Allen  Tom Hanks  Tony Hale  SAVE 17% ON PLUS

Byte Toy Story 5

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2026 7:52


Conversations with Kenna Harris, Lindsey Collins, Joan Cusack, Greta Lee & Tony Hale In this special Pixar‑focused episode of Byte, sits down interviews with the creative minds and beloved cast behind Toy Story 5 — a film that arrives at a moment when audiences need its message more than ever courtesy of Disney Pictures. Co‑Director Kenna Harris, Producer Lindsey Collins, and actors Joan Cusack, Greta Lee, and Tony Hale open up about crafting a story that honors the franchise's legacy while pushing its characters into bold new emotional territory. The conversations explore the film's timely themes, Jessie's powerful new arc, and the enduring magic that makes Toy Story one of the most cherished series in animation history. SAVE 17% ON PLUS

Ji: Love and Duty Across Ruins

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2026 25:00 Transcription Available


Tony revisits Ji, a visually striking sci‑fi romance short that imagines a future where humanity has fractured across worlds. After centuries of pollution, war, and collapse, Earth is left in ruins. The East escapes to build a pristine off‑world colony called Nilo, while the West seals itself behind fortified walls. From this divide emerges Ji, a disciplined Nilo general played by Lewis Tan. Rumors swirl on Nilo that life still exists on Earth — a claim their government denies. Ji risks everything to descend to the planet of his ancestors, only to discover Tiffany, a resilient Earth survivor portrayed by Eva De Dominici. Their connection forces Ji into a choice that could reshape both worlds. Tony chatted with Ben Griffin to explore the film's emotional core, its world‑building, and the timeless tension between duty and love. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

The Shipment — A Father's Last Cargo

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 33:59 Transcription Available


A Conversation with Aleks Paunovic, Bobby Bala, and the Creative Team In this Tribeca Memories installment, we revisit a standout sci‑fi short that left a lasting impression on festival audiences: The Shipment. Set in a gritty future where survival often comes at the cost of morality, the film follows a former slave trader who has abandoned that life to become a cargo hauler, ferrying goods between distant planets. But when one job becomes his only chance to secure a future for himself and his daughter, he's forced to confront a devastating price — one that threatens to pull him back into the darkness he thought he'd escaped. Recorded live at the iconic Roxy Hotel in New York City, Tony sat down with fan‑favorite actor Aleks Paunovic, director Bobby Bala, and members of the creative team to explore the film's emotional core, its world‑building, and the personal stories behind its creation. The Shipment is a reminder that sci‑fi isn't just about ships and planets — it's about the choices that define us. This episode captures the creative heartbeat behind a film that blends genre spectacle with intimate storytelling, all through the lens of a team committed to pushing boundaries.  See it on Dusk SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Tribeca Memories

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 7:13


Recorded Live at the Tribeca Film Festival In this special retrospective episode, we revisit two standout conversations recorded live at the Tribeca Film Festival — moments that capture the raw creative pulse of independent filmmaking. First, actor and producer Elijah Wood joins us to discuss his darkly comedic thriller Come To Daddy, reflecting on the film's twisted emotional core, its genre‑bending tone, and the joy of championing bold, off‑kilter storytelling. Then, acclaimed director Mary Harron sits down to explore Charley Says, her haunting and humanistic portrait of the women once under Charles Manson's influence.  Together, these conversations form a living archive of Tribeca's spirit — fearless, curious, and deeply committed to the power of character‑driven stories. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Rewind — Silo Season Two

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 23:07


Shirley, Knox, Martha, Carla, and the evolving machinery of rebellion In this episode of Rewind, Tony returns to the claustrophobic, pressure‑cooker world of Silo as Season Two pushes deeper into the political fractures, emotional loyalties, and mechanical realities of life 244 levels underground. With Juliette's actions reverberating through every floor, the people who keep the Silo running — literally and spiritually — step into the spotlight. Tony speaks with Remmie Milner, Shane McRae, Harriet Walter, Claire Perkins, and Overall VFX Supervisor Daniel Rauchberger to explore how Season Two expands the world, sharpens the stakes, and reveals the human cost of truth in a society built on lies. Production Designer Nicole Northridge's work also takes center stage as the Silo's environments evolve in scale, texture, and tension.

Rewind: Silo: Truth, Power, and the Descent Into 244 Levels of Secrets

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 15:34


Rebecca Ferguson, Common & Graham Yost on identity, control, and Juliet's rise In this episode of Rewind, Tony revisits the world of Silo, the Apple TV+ adaptation of Hugh Howey's bestselling trilogy about a future where humanity survives in a massive underground structure — 244 levels deep — built on rules, fear, and a carefully curated version of the truth. After years of development attempts and false starts, Silo finally found its home on Apple TV+, becoming one of the platform's most acclaimed sci‑fi dramas. Tony sits down with Rebecca Ferguson, Common, and creator Graham Yost to explore the show's central themes and the emotional and moral weight carried by its characters. What Is Truth? The question that haunts every level of the Silo. Rebecca Ferguson reflects on Juliet's relentless pursuit of truth — not as an abstract ideal, but as a survival instinct. Common on Robert Sims: A Rough First Season Graham Yost on Juliet's Arc SAVE 17% ON PLUS   

Byte Disclosure Day: New York City Premiere

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2026 7:50


Colman Domingo, Steven Spielberg, Wyatt Russell, Emily Blunt & David Koepp on character, craft, and the film's core themes For the New York City premiere of Disclosure Day, a buzzing red carpet to talk with the cast and creative team behind one of the year's most anticipated films. From character dynamics to thematic undercurrents to the collaborative spark between actors and filmmakers, this episode captures the premiere's energy and the artistry behind the movie. Featuring interviews with: Steven Spielberg — Director Colman Domingo — “Hugo Wakefield” Colin Firth (discussed in context) — “Noah Scanlan” Wyatt Russell — “Jackson” Emily Blunt — “Margaret Fairchild” David Koepp — Writer Colman Domingo — on the emotional and psychological layers of playing Hugo, and how his dynamic with Colin Firth's Noah becomes one of the film's most charged relationships. Steven Spielberg — reflecting on shaping the film's tone, balancing suspense with humanity, and why New York premieres always feel like a homecoming. Wyatt Russell — offering heartfelt praise for Emily Blunt, calling her presence “a masterclass in precision and instinct.” Emily Blunt — on grounding the film's emotional stakes and building a character who carries both resilience and vulnerability. David Koepp — breaking down one of the film's central themes: the cost of truth when everyone believes they already know it. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Byte — Disclosure Day: UK Premiere Red Carpet

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2026 13:06


Steven Spielberg, Eve Hewson, Colin Firth, Colman Domingo & Josh O'Connor on music, dual roles, confrontations, and the train sequence In this special UK‑premiere edition of Byte, Tony takes listeners straight onto the red carpet for Disclosure Day, gathering exclusive conversations with the film's powerhouse creative team and cast. From the emotional architecture of John Williams' score to the film's most explosive character moments, this episode captures the artistry and ambition behind one of the year's most talked‑about releases. Featuring interviews with: Steven Spielberg — Director Eve Hewson — in a striking dual role as Jane Blankenship Colin Firth — “Noah Scanlon” Colman Domingo — “Hugo Wakefield” Josh O'Connor — “Dr. Daniel Kellner Steven Spielberg — on shaping the film's emotional spine, collaborating once again with John Williams, and why the score had to feel both intimate and operatic. Eve Hewson — breaking down the challenge and thrill of playing two characters whose identities collide at the heart of the story. Colman Domingo & Colin Firth — reflecting on the film's pivotal confrontation between Hugo and Noah, a scene that became a defining moment for both actors. Josh O'Connor — on grounding the film's moral tension through Elias' perspective. The Train Sequence — Spielberg and the cast unpack the technical choreography, emotional stakes, and practical effects behind the film's most ambitious set piece. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Crafting For All Mankind

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 16:28


Inside the writing, world‑building, and production design of Apple TV+'s alternate‑history epic In this behind‑the‑scenes deep dive, Tony sits down with the creative minds who shape the emotional, political, and scientific backbone of For All Mankind. From the writer's room to the surface of Mars, this episode explores how the series continues to reinvent itself each decade — narratively, visually, and thematically. Executive Producers Ben Nedivi and Matt Wolpert break down the evolving creative process behind the show's long‑arc storytelling, while Ronald D. Moore returns to discuss the sociopolitical architecture of the Mars colony. Production Designer Seth Reed, Esther Marquis Costume Designer for Season Four's Margo arc, and NASA Tech Advisor Garrett Wiesman round out a conversation that reveals how every detail — from a jumpsuit seam to a habitat layout — supports the show's realism and emotional truth. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Rewind — V: The Visitors Returned

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 17:23


A modern reinvention of fear, faith, and the price of peace In this episode of Rewind, Tony revisits ABC's reboot of V — the ambitious, effects‑driven reimagining of Kenneth Johnson's iconic 1983 miniseries. The modern series once again chronicles the arrival of an alien species who promise peace, healing, and technological miracles… while secretly plotting humanity's downfall. Through conversations with stars Elizabeth Mitchell and Morena Baccarin, along with executive producers Scott Rosenbaum and Steve Pearlman, this episode explores how the creative team rebuilt V for a new era of political anxiety, media manipulation, and global distrust. The cast — including Morris Chestnut and Charles Mesure — brought emotional depth to a story where every alliance is fragile and every promise from the Visitors hides a darker truth. SAVE 17% ON PLUS    

Rewind Mythic Quest Ravens Banquet

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 20:36


In this episode, Tony sits down with the cast and creative team behind the first season of Apple TV+'s Mythic Quest — the acclaimed workplace comedy set inside a fictional video‑game studio building one of the world's biggest MMORPGs. Through conversations with F. Murray Abraham, Ashly Burch, David Hornsby, Charlotte Nicdao, Rob McElhenney, and Megan Ganz, the episode explores how the series blends absurdity, ego, artistry, and the real‑world pressures of game development. The team reflects on crafting the world of Mythic Quest, the dynamics inside the studio, and the creative tensions that fuel both the comedy and the characters' growth. SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY  

Rembering The Boys — Special Retrospective Episode

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 16:43


The scale, the controversy, the characters, and the heart behind the chaos In this special retrospective, Tony revisits the groundbreaking, controversial, and culturally seismic series The Boys. Through archival conversations with creator Eric Kripke, cast members Giancarlo Esposito, Antony Starr, Aya Cash, Karl Urban, Laz Alonso, Jack Quaid, and Erin Moriarty, this episode explores how the show pushed boundaries, redefined the superhero genre, and carved out a legacy that still sparks debate. Eric Kripke on Scale, Chaos & Creative Courage Giancarlo Esposito on Joining The Boys Antony Starr, Aya Cash & Karl Urban — The Faces of Chaos Laz Alonso on Mother's Milk — The Backstory & The Burden Romantic Relationships in The Boys Watch all seasons on Amazon Prime SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY

Lois McMaster Bujold - A Master of Character‑Driven Space Opera

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 20:13


In this vintage conversation from the 1990s, Lois McMaster Bujold joins Tony Tellado and Ernest Lilley at a moment when her acclaimed Vorkosigan Saga is evolving in bold, emotionally resonant ways. Speaking from the era of her then‑latest novel, Memory (1996), Bujold offers a candid, thoughtful look at the craft behind one of science fiction's most beloved universes. Now 76 and living in Minneapolis, Bujold remains a towering figure in speculative fiction — but here, listeners get to hear her voice from the period when Miles Vorkosigan's journey was taking its most introspective and transformative turn. BONUS: Vintage Radio Texture: Patrick Stewart & Ernest Lilley In this archival clip, Patrick Stewart reflects on what made Star Trek: First Contact such a defining moment for both Jean‑Luc Picard. Ernest Lilley Reviews Barbara Hambly Ernest offers a sharp, insightful review of Barbara Hambly   SAVE 17% ON PLUS    

BYTE — Disclosure Day: Steven Spielberg & Colman Domingo

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2026 6:07


Building a Story About Secrets, Consequences, and the Human Cost of Truth In this companion episode, Steven Spielberg and Colman Domingo take us deeper into the creative and philosophical spine of Disclosure Day. Where the first conversation explored character, this one unpacks the why — why this story, why now, and why these characters carry the emotional weight of a world on the brink of revelation.Special Thanks To Universal Pictures for the Audio.  The Evolution of the Story Colman Domingo on Working With Steven Spielberg Could a “Disclosure Day” Really Happen On Margaret Fairchild & Daniel Kellner SAVE 17% ON PLUS

BYTE — Disclosure Day: Emily Blunt & Josh O'Connor

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 4:46


In this episode of Byte, we sit down with Emily Blunt (Margaret Fairchild) and Josh O'Connor (Daniel Kellner) to explore the emotional and creative engine behind Disclosure Day, Steven Spielberg's latest character‑driven thriller. The conversation moves from the craft of performance to the moral questions at the heart of the film — and why this story feels so urgent right now. Special Thanks To Universal Pictures for the Audio.  Working on a Spielberg Film Emily Blunt And Josh O'Connor on the characters The Driving Force Of The Story Are there lessons to be learned SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

Explore Monthly — June Edition has Supergirl, Disclosure Day, Stargate News

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 11:51


Sci‑Fi • Fantasy • Horror • Comics June arrives with a surge of cross‑genre developments — from DC's cosmic ambitions to reboots of cult classics, evolving timelines in prestige sci‑fi, and fresh movement across film and television. This month's roundup captures the stories shaping the speculative landscape. Supergirl Takes Flight Toward the Big Screen Spider‑Noir Spotlight: Li Jun Li's Dream Role Stargate Revival Rejected by Amazon Silo Splits Its Timeline Zack Snyder to Write & Direct Escape From New York Reboot Sydney Sweeney Saddles Up for Sleepy Hollow Jeffrey Combs Reflects on Weyoun Greg Mottola to Direct Bane & Deathstroke Film Shawn Levy's Next Project: Somewhere Out There Harry Potter TV Series Renewed for Season Two The List: Ranking the Superman Actors SAVE 17% ON PLUS

Claim Sci-Fi Talk

In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

Claim Cancel