The Front Row Network

Front Row Classics is taking a look at a true guilty pleasure this week. Brandon is joined by two friends of the podcast, Tony Maietta and Ben Burke to break down 1956's The Opposite Sex. This misguided remake of The Women has an impressive cast, yet unfortunately failed to capture the same magic of the 1939 film. Yet, there is still is fun to be had within the movie. Get ready for an irreverent and hilarious conversation about an MGM musical that doesn't quite measure up.

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome WOW Superhero, Xena Phoenix. Brandon and Xena discuss both her artistic and athletic background which led her to WOW-Women of Wrestling. We also discuss her love of performing and the important of manifesting. WOW airs weekly in syndication across the U.S. and on VICE TV. All episodes from seasons one, two and three can be streamed on Pluto TV's dedicated WOW channel. Seasons two and three are currently available to stream on Tubi and season two is available on Paramount+. Paramount Global Content Fans can check their local listings and learn more about WOW on wowe.com.

Front Row Classics welcomes back actress and content creator Cassidy Krygger. Cassidy is joined by director Jonathan Zsofi to discuss the their collaboration on the romantic short film, Love in the Moonlight. This film takes inspiration from classic Hollywood films such as The Ghost and Mrs. Muir. They take Brandon through the production process and their hopes for the future of the project. They also talk about their mutual love of classic film.   You can view the proof of concept of the film along with ways to invest/contribute here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2dIUg5N-LA

Front Row Classics is celebrating the work of legendary producer Ross Hunter. Brandon is thrilled to welcome back Paul Walsh to discuss 1960's Portrait in Black. This melodramatic suspense thriller stars Lana Turner, Anthony Quinn, Sandra Dee John Gavin and Anna May Wong in her final film performance. Brandon and Paul discuss the memorable moments of this early neo-noir as well as the glossy/campy elements that make it a fun ride.

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome back independent wrestler Dante Pharoah. Brandon and Dante chat about this evening's Riverbend Rumble for Midwest Wrestling Coalition and his future plans to shake things up throughout the wrestling scene.

The Front Row Network welcomes independent wrestler, Romeo Vice. Brandon and Romeo have a lively conversation about his wrestling origins as well as being a genuine ladies man in the ring.

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome two great friends of the podcast. Brandon welcomes James Duke Mason and Vanessa O'Neil to discuss a recent experience they shared on the Warner Brothers lot. They retraced the steps of their grandparents, James Mason and Judy Garland, during the production of A Star is Brown. The three also have a candid conversation about being a part of Hollywood families and keeping the legacies alive. 

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome Mr. Elegance. One of TNA's fastest rising stars, Mr. Elegance chats with Brandon all about his journey in professional wrestling and the excitement of being part of TNA.  The two also chat about TNA Lockdown on Sunday, August 23, at the Credit Union 1 Arena in downtown Chicago with tickets on sale. You can also catch Thursday night iMPACT! on AMC and AMC+ (USA), Sportsnet 360 (Canada) and TNA+ (worldwide).  

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome film historian Randy Haberkamp. Randy recently retired as the Executive Vice President of the Library, Archive and Sci-Tech for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences where he held various positions for 23 years.  Brandon and Randy discuss some of his best memories from the Academy as well as his work as founder of The Silent Society which preserves the legacy of silent film. The two also discuss Randy's love of dog movies. 

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome rising independent wrestler, Klay Cutler. Brandon and Klay chat about his background in both the arts and athletics which led him to currently being on the roster for Millennium Pro Wrestling. He and Brandon also chat about his current injury that has him sidelined and what he most looks forward to when returning. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at another great summer movie with 1963's Jason and the Argonauts. Brandon is joined by author Christopher McKittrick to discuss this pioneering triumph in fantasy storytelling and special effects. Much of the discussion is dedicated to the legendary Ray Harryhausen whose stop-motion animation and visual effects inspired filmmakers for generations. 

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome independent wrestler Ronin Lavoe. Brandon and Ronin had an in-depth conversation back in May about his origins in wrestling and his in-ring journey. They also chatted about his philosophies about the wrestling business.

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome wrestler Steve "El Lycan" Vazquez. Brandon and Steve discuss his origins in wrestling, thoughts on being a good heel and thoughts on the best and worst in wrestling. 

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome back Dr. Taylor Cole Miller. Taylor is an assistant professor of media studies at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Brandon and Taylor are celebrating the 1960s sitcom, Bewitched. A favorite of both, each gives a couple favorite episodes while celebrating the impact and laughter this magical show continues to bring. 

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome back Steven Fuerte. Brandon and Steven discuss the recent happenings in his wrestling career including his appearances with AEW.

The Front Row Network welcomes back Mathias. Brandon and Mathias catch up on his 2026 so far. They also preview his upcoming title shot against Maximillien for the UWN Heritage Championship.

Front Row Classics welcomes stage, screen and Broadway performer, Nicolas King. Brandon and Nicolas chat about growing up loving classic film &  music. They, then discuss Nicolas' life in show business including his run as Chip in Beauty & the Beast on Broadway. Nicolas also celebrates many of the show business legends who have personally impacted his life including Liza Minnelli, Carol Burnett and Linda Lavin. 

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome legendary actress Linda Gray. Brandon and Linda discuss her upbringing in Los Angeles which led to modeling jobs and a career in acting. We chat about her most famous role as Sue Ellen Ewing on Dallas as well as her connection to the iconic poster of The Graduate. Linda also explains why her passion for acting continues all these years later. 

Front Row Classics welcomes back our friend Scott Nevins. Scott is an award winning host comedian and interviewer. Brandon and Scott chat about their mutual love of Broadway musicals, Judy Garland and Hollywood history.

Front Row Classics welcomes back our friend Jeremy Arnold for another Christmas in July. Brandon and Jeremy are highlighting the unsung noir heist thriller, Cash on Demand from 1961. Set during the Christmas season, this well-written British thriller stars Peter Cushing and André Morrell in to unforgettable performances. Produced by Hammer Films, this movie is small jewel that is a fun offbeat addition to holiday viewing.

Front Row Classics welcomes back our friend Jeremy Arnold for another Christmas in July. Brandon and Jeremy are highlighting the unsung noir heist thriller, Cash on Demand from 1961. Set during the Christmas season, this well-written British thriller stars Peter Cushing and André Morrell in to unforgettable performances. Produced by Hammer Films, this movie is small jewel that is a fun offbeat addition to holiday viewing.

Front Row Classics welcomes host, actor, and content creator Justin Root. As host of "The Justin Root Show", he provides viewers a glimpse into the history of Hollywood and Los Angeles history. Brandon and Justin discuss his love of pop culture and L.A. They also chat about his memorable encounters with legends such as Carol Burnett, Betty White and Faye Dunaway. You can find "The Justin Root Show" at https://www.youtube.com/@TheJustinRootShow and https://www.instagram.com/thejustinrootshow/

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Derek Lajeunesse of The Dream Factory podcast. Brandon and Derek are celebrating the storied Arthur Freed Unit from MGM. The two discuss how MGM musicals made an impact on their lives and highlight some of the most pivotal films of that era. You can find The Dream Factory wherever you listen to podcasts. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at a genuine comedy classic. Brandon is joined by Scott Gardner to discuss 1948's Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House. The film features flawless performances from Cary Grant, Myrna Loy and Melvyn Douglas. Brandon and Scott chat about the comedic highlights and how the movie represent post-war life in the U.S. They also chat about how surprisingly relevant it is today.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of most underrated romantic epics in film history. Brandon and Emmett Stanton are commemorating the 45th anniversary of Warren Beatty's Reds. The two discuss the epic scope and big ideas on Beatty's film which also includes performances from Diane Keaton, Jack Nicholson, Edward Herrmann and Oscar winning role from Maureen Stapleton.  The mix of art and lift permeate the film's account of the 1919 October Revolution. Brandon and Emmett celebrate both the strengths and weaknesses of a film that is due for a reassessment. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look the women of Film Noir. Brandon welcomes authors/film historians Alain Silver and James Ursini to discuss their book, "Film Noir Fatal Women" which provides a visual narrative of many of the most pivotal women of the genre. The book utilizes over 400 photographs to tell the story of the contributions of women in the storytelling of noir. "Film Noir Fatal Women" is available from Silman-James Press wherever books are sold. 

Front Row Classics is continuing its summer viewing by taking a look at one of the most loved films of the 1980s. Brandon and Peter Martin are discussing 1981's On Golden Pond. Based on the celebrated play by Ernest Thompson, the movie still has the power to tickle your funny bone and touch your heart. The two hosts take a look at the two Oscar winning performances of Henry Fonda (in his last film role) and Katherine Hepburn, They also chat about how art imitated life with the on and off screen father/daughter relationship with Henry and Jane Fonda.

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome professional wrestler, Rich Port Ayala. He and Brandon chat about his origins in the ring and his journey which led him wrestling abroad recently. The two also chat about Ayala's philosophies on the wrestling business.

Front Row Classics is celebrating summer with 1948's Romance on the High Seas. The movie marked an auspicious film debut for the legendary Doris Day. Directed by Michael Curtiz, the movie showcases all of the best Warner Bros had to offer. Brandon is joined once again by Mary-Catherine Pazzano and Dana Harrison to discuss all of the fun and music from this fun, escapist musical. 

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome independent wrestler, Ripper Zbyszko. Brandon and Ripper chat about his growing up with a wrestling lineage and finding his way into the ring. We also chat about his different philosophies of wrestling and in-ring highlights so far. 

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome The Hollywood Dream, The D.R.E. Brandon and The D.R.E chat about his origins is acting and wrestling. We also chat about his in-ring highlights and ultimate goals. 

Front Row Classics is happy to welcome back our friend, Tony Maietta. Tony joins Brandon for his birthday week and the two chat all things classic film. The conversation covers everything from 1940s melodramas to 1970s sitcoms. Be sure to catch Tony's podcast , Going Hollywood, at https://www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com/.

The Front Row Network welcomes "Sweet Cheeks" Joey Silver. Brandon and Joey chat about his origins in wrestling and career highlights. They also chat about the fun side of wrestling and injecting humor into the action. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating the legendary Ava Gardner. Brandon welcomes graphic designer, writer and Board Member of the Ava Gardner Museum Lora Stocker. Brandon and Lora discuss Ava's life & career and what the Ava Gardner Museum (located in North Carolina) has to offer. They also discuss Lora's background and fandom of classic film. 

Front Row Classics welcomes author Tony Lee Moral. Tony recently penned "A Century of Hitchcock: The Man, The Myths, The Legacy". He addressed a series of narratives regarding the Master of Suspense through new archival research and unpublished interviews.  Now available from The University Press of Kentucky wherever books are sold Tony Lee Moral is a mystery author and screenwriter with a deep passion for suspense, mystery, and the cinematic legacy of Alfred Hitchcock. Over the course of his career, he has become a leading voice in both the world of Hitchcock scholarship and contemporary crime fiction. With four critically acclaimed books dedicated to Alfred Hitchcock, including Alfred Hitchcock Storyboards (2024), The Young Alfred Hitchcock's Moviemaking Master Class (2022), The Making of Hitchcock's The Birds (2013), and Hitchcock and the Making of Marnie (2013), Tony's writing offers a unique insight into the art of filmmaking, the creative process, and the mind of one of cinema's most iconic directors. But Tony's talents don't end with nonfiction. He is also an accomplished novelist, weaving intricate plots filled with suspense, intrigue, and unforgettable characters. His novels include The Two Masks of Vendetta and its thrilling sequel The Passion of the Cross (both released in 2024) and Ghost Maven: The Haunting of Alice May (2019). These novels blend elements of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural, taking readers on unforgettable journeys that explore complex characters, twisted secrets, and the darkest corners of the human psyche. As a writer, Tony is dedicated to crafting stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats. His work in suspenseful thrillers, like The Two Masks of Vendetta, shows his knack for creating tension and atmosphere, while his paranormal novels, such as Ghost Maven, blend supernatural elements with heartfelt emotions, bringing a fresh approach to the genre. Drawing on his expertise in both film and fiction, Tony writes with an eye for cinematic detail, ensuring that each page feels like a scene from a gripping film. His deep understanding of Hitchcock's techniques — suspense, misdirection, and character-driven storytelling — shines through in every novel, making his books essential reading for fans of mystery, crime, and psychological thrillers.

The Front Row Network welcomes independent wrestler, Braydon Goss. Brandon and Braydon chat about his origins in wrestling along with his in-ring highlights. They also chat about his ultimate goals in the business. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating the legendary Bette Davis by taking a look at some of her most underrated performances. Brandon is joined by Staff Editor of Entertainment Weekly, Rance Collins. Brandon and Rance are both unabashed Davis fans and have compiled their personal top 5 underrated performances of the legendary star. Let us know what your top 5 choices would be.

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome back our friend John Malahy. John, author of TCM and Running Press' wonderful "Summer Movies" book joins Brandon to chat about the popular series of "Beach Party" movies of the 1960s. The two cover Frankie, Annette and all of the fun/bizarre cameos. The films also provide snapshots of some of the 60s biggest musical acts including The Beach Boys and Stevie Wonder.

Front Row Classics is celebrating one of television's greatest shows. Brandon welcomes writer/producer Marc Scott Zicree to discuss his third edition of "The Twilight Zone Companion". Brandon and Marc chat about the show's origins and Rod Serling's impact on popular culture. They also discuss some of the most memorable episodes along with Marc's journey through researching the show. "The Twilight Zone Companion Third Edition" is available from Silman-James Press wherever books are sold. Marc Scott Zicree has written and produced hundreds of hours of TV for most of the major studios and networks. His credits include Star Trek: The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Babylon 5, Sliders, Friday the 13th: The Series, He-Man, The Real Ghostbusters, The Smurfs, and numerous other shows. Regarded as one of the country's top media experts, Zicree is a regular guest on late-night radio's Coast to Coast and has lectured at many colleges (including USC, UCLA, Stanford, and Ithaca College), professional conferences, and museums throughout the world. The Twilight Zone Companion has been credited with creating the modern genre of books on TV series and inspiring a generation of series creators and filmmakers. Zicree has also co-written (with Guillermo del Toro, Barbara Hambly, and others) four additional books. Along with his wife, Elaine, Marc is currently writing, directing, and producing Space Command, an epic science-fiction TV series.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at two films that were forerunners in dealing with LGBT themes in film. Brandon is joined by Peter Martin to discuss Tea and Sympathy from 1956 and The Children's Hour from 1962. The two compare and contrast the effect of the Hays Code on both films and how the constrictions of the times watered down both films. Yet, both hosts praise the films for their stellar direction and performances.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of Greta Garbo's greatest screen performances. Brandon and Emmett Stanton are chatting about 1933's Queen Christina. Brandon and Emmett discuss the unusual nature of the film and the chemistry between Garbo and John Gilbert. They also discuss Rouben Mamoulian's expert direction which exposes all of MGM's resources at its best. The conversation also turns to the subversive performances and pre-code attributes that make the film feel fresh in 2026. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most gripping dramas from Warner Brothers in the 1950s. Brandon and Ben Burke are chatting about 1951's Young Man with a Horn. The movie features one of the earliest landmark performances from Kirk Douglas. Director Michael Curtiz also lands great performances from Doris Day, Hoagy Carmichael and Lauren Bacall (in one of her most subversive performances). Brandon and Ben also discuss the use of jazz and jazz culture in the film.

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Oz enthusiast Sean Barrett. Brandon and Sean discuss the effect of The Wizard of Oz on his life and the time he spent at Artistic Director of The Land of Oz theme park. They also chat about its evolution and inspiration to multiple generations. Sean also has credits in film, television and live theater. 

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Isabel "Izzy" Custodio to the podcast. Izzy is the creator of the popular classic film YouTube channel, Be Kind Rewind. Brandon and Izzy discuss her origins as a classic film fan and the beginnings of her channel. They also chat about her favorite films and future goals.  You can find Be Kind Rewind at: https://www.youtube.com/@bkrewind

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Emmy-winning actor, Christian Le Blanc. Christian and Brandon chat about his background and acting influences which eventually led him to a multiple decade run on The Young and the Restless as Michael Baldwin. The two also discuss his experiences working with the likes of Julie Harris, Charles Nelson Reilly and Eileen Brennan.  A twelve-time Emmy nominee and three-time Outstanding Lead Actor Emmy winner, Christian Jules Le Blanc, stars as Michael Baldwin on CBS's number one rated daytime drama, The Young and the Restless. Christian joined the cast of The Young and the Restless in October 1991, departing in 1993. He returned to the series in April, 1997. A slick attorney, Michael has found happiness in his marriage to Lauren Fenmore (Tracey E. Bregman), despite the antics of his troubled brother, Kevin (Greg Rikaart) and his unpredictable mother, Gloria (Judith Chapman). In 2022, Christian made his New York theater debut in Ruth Stage Company's production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Christian's television appearances also include the role of Kirk McColl on As the World Turns, a starring role as a regular on In the Heat of the Night with Carol O'Connor and Howard Rollins, and many guest appearances including Perry Mason, Cheers and Gabriel's Fire. He produced and starred in his first short film, Puppy Love, with actress, Grace Zabriskie, which was honored as the Outstanding Short Film at the Los Angeles and New York International Short Film Festivals. Le Blanc's stage credits include Ladies In Retirement, in which he starred with the legendary actresses Julie Harris and Eileen Brennan. More recently, Le Blanc appeared in the Los Angeles Times Pick-of-the-Week, No Orchids for Miss Blandish. In 2008, he appeared in The Catonsville Nine, in 2009, Appearances to the Contrary and in 2011, The Tennessee Williams Literary Festival in New Orleans. He is currently a member of the Rogue Theater Company of Los Angeles. Christian also has taken on the role of host at many high-profile venues including: The 2012 Creative Arts Daytime Emmy Awards, The Annual Young and the Restless Charity Tea, Soap Cruise, and numerous charitable and daytime functions. Christian is also an award winning artist. His work has been shown in Los Angeles and Washington D.C., and New Orleans where they are currently on display at the Jean Bragg Gallery of Southern Art. He is currently working on a children's novel which he is illustrating. Christian, an army brat, was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, but calls New Orleans, Louisiana, home. He is one of the eight children of Andre and Alice Le Blanc. His father is a decorated veteran of the U.S. Special Forces. Le Blanc lives in Los Angeles. His hobbies include genealogy and languages and sports including: water skiing, swimming, and racquetball. He has also worked as a substitute teacher in the Los Angeles school district. A world traveler, Le Blanc's journeys have taken him to Australia and the Middle East.

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcomes back author and professor Laurence Maslon. Brandon and Larry are commemorating the 70th anniversary of the film version of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel. The two discuss the production's history and legacy.  Laurence Maslon is an arts professor at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, as well as associate chair of the Graduate Acting Program. His most recent book is an updated companion volume to the PBS series Broadway: The American Musical. He is also the host and producer of the weekly radio series, Broadway to Main Street (winner of the 2019 ASCAP Foundation/Deems Taylor Award for Radio Broadcast) on the NPR station WLIW-FM. He edited the two-volume set American Musicals (1927-1969) for Library of America, as well as their Kaufman & Co., Broadway comedies by George S. Kaufman. Other books include the companion book to Come From Away, Broadway to Main Street: How Show Music Enchanted America (Oxford), The Sound of Music Companion, and the South Pacific Companion. He is the writer and coproducer of the PBS American Masters documentary, Sammy Davis, Jr.: I've Gotta Be Me, and wrote American Masters documentary Richard Rodgers: The Sweetest Sounds. He served on the nominating committee for the Tony Awards from 2007 to 2010. He has written for the New York Times, the Washington Post, the New Yorker, Opera News, Stagebill, and American Theatre. 

Front Row Classics is pleased welcome Emmy-winning actor, Brian Rohan. Brandon and Brian chat about his appreciation for movies growing up which led him to a life in performing. The to two chat about their mutual classic film fandom. They, then, discuss his acclaimed interpretation of the legendary Jimmy Stewart in various artistic projects. Brian also portrays another icon, Norman Bates, on the Universal Studios Tour. You can find out more about Brian on his social media pages and https://brianrohan.com/

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome comedy writer & actor Bruce Vilanch. Brandon and Bruce discuss his life in show business from his early days a child actor to becoming one of the most sought after comedy writers in the business. Bruce has worked with some of the most beloved entertainers of the last 50 years, from Bette Midler to Robin Williams & Billy Crystal to Dolly Parton. We also chat about his time on Hollywood Squares and being the head writer for the Oscars. His book, "It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time: The Worst TV Shows in History and Other Things I Wrote" is currently available from Chicago Review Press wherever books are sold. 

Front Row Classics welcomes independent wrestler Marty Clay. Brandon and Marty chat about his origins as wrestler and his career highlights. Marty also chats about his philosophies on the business as well as a major match this evening against Nic Nemeth.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the greatest romances in film history. Brandon is joined by entertainment journalist & author to discuss Camille (1936). Tara recently introduced the film, alongside Diane Baker, at the Turner Classic Movies Film Festival. Brandon and Tara discuss the luminous performance of Greta Garbo and the impact of George Cukor on the film. 

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome wrestling legend Al Snow. Brandon and Al chat about his origins in wrestling and career highlights. Al also discusses what separates wrestling from other art forms. He also highlights his work with OVW and how is it shaping talent for the next generation.