The Front Row Network

Front Row Classics is providing recommendations for movie viewers who prefer a less horrific Halloween. Brandon and Jessica Pickens (Comet Over Hollywood) each recommend five films that will give you just the right amount of chills this spooky season.

Front Row Classics is providing recommendations for movie viewers who prefer a less horrific Halloween. Brandon and Jessica Pickens (Comet Over Hollywood) each recommend five films that will give you just the right amount of chills this spooky season.

Front Row Classics is providing recommendations for movie viewers who prefer a less horrific Halloween. Brandon and Jessica Pickens (Comet Over Hollywood) each recommend five films that will give you just the right amount of chills this spooky season.

Front Row Classics continues its Halloween celebration with one of the best gothic suspense films of the 1940s. Brandon and Emmett Stanton are chatting 1944's Gaslight. The film is a tense, atmospheric thriller directed by the incomparable George Cukor. Brandon and Emmett discuss the Oscar winning performance of Ingrid Bergman in one of the most complex performances from an actress during the forties. The two also discuss the performances of Charles Boyer, Joseph Cotten and Angela Lansbury in her film debut.

Front Row Classics is kicking off Halloween week with several spooky offering. Brandon welcome Brandon Brown to discuss 1974's It's Alive. This science fiction/horror film came from the mind of Larry Cohen. Brandon and Brandon discuss the film's highlights including makeup by Rick Baker and one of the final scores by Bernard Herrmann. We also discuss Brandon's involvement with the Bernard Herrmann Archive.

The Front Row Network welcomes professional wrestler, LDJ, to the podcast. Known as The Sigma Male, LDJ has been making a name for himself in the independent circuit over the last few years. Brandon and LDJ discuss his origins in wrestling and how his persona was created. We also discuss the highlights of his career as well as his future in the business.

We're thrilled to welcome author and film professor Marsha Gordon to Front Row Classics for a deep dive into one of the most daring and progressive films of the pre-Code era: 1930's The Divorcee. Join Brandon and Marsha as they explore this groundbreaking MGM production, directed by Robert Z. Leonard, which challenged societal norms and redefined female agency on screen. At the heart of the film is the luminous Norma Shearer, whose Oscar-winning performance remains a landmark in cinematic history. We'll also shine a light on the film's stellar supporting cast and the bold themes that made The Divorcee a trailblazer in Hollywood storytelling.

Front Row Classics welcome author John Malahy to take a trip back to the 1980s. John recently authored "Rewinding the 80s: Cinema Under the Influence of Music Videos, Action Stars and a Cold War". Brandon and John discuss the decade in which cinema was first heavily influenced by pop culture. Yet, the decade remains unsung in terms of its many cinematic achievements.  "Rewinding the 80s: Cinema Under the Influence of Music Videos, Action Stars and a Cold War" is available from Turner Classic Movies and Running Press wherever books are sold. John Malahy is a film lover, a veteran of Turner Classic Movies, and a product of the 1980s. He is the author of Summer Movies: 30 Sun-Drenched Classics and the editor of Sidney Poitier: The Great Speeches of an Icon Who Moved Us Forward.

Front Row Classics welcomes Tony Maietta for the first time. Tony is an author, actor, film historian and fellow podcaster. His podcast Going Hollywood is a fun deep dive into films and television series from the Golden Age and beyond. Brandon and Tony discuss their mutual love for Lucy, What's Up Doc and Bringing Up Baby among other topics. The conversation then turns to the 50th anniversary of the legendary documentary Grey Gardens. We discuss Tony's fascination with the film which led to him authoring the book, "The Marble Faun of Grey Gardens".  You can find information about all of Tony's projects at https://tony-maietta.com/.

Front Row Classics welcomes author Laurence Mason to celebrate the art of both Alfred Hitchcock and a great drink. Maslon recently wrote "Hitchcocktails: Lethal Libations inspired by the Master of Suspense". The books pairs Hitchcock's legendary films with a cocktail appropriate for the occasion. Larry mixes both film history and mixology in an attractive package for both films fans and drink enthusiasts alike. "Hitchcocktails: Lethal Libations inspired by the Master of Suspense" is available now from Weldon Owen wherever books are sold. 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. Mr. Maslon, otherwise a nice guy, mixes a mean drink.  

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome Pretty City Express (CLAS and Devin Reno) to the show. Based in the southwest, CLAS and Reno are just as charismatic & entertaining out of the ring. Brandon dives into their journey into professional wrestling as well life outside the ring. The conversation also turns to the importance of finding your passion and maintaining your mental health.      

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most popular friends in Elvis Presley's catalog. Brandon is joined by Daveyanna Garcia to discuss 1964's Viva Las Vegas. The two discuss the incredible chemistry between Presley and Ann-Margret. We also pay tribute to director George Sidney whose experience in directing MGM musicals, keeps the film moving at a fun pace. 

The Front Row Network welcome Dante Pharaoh to the podcast this week. Dante is a talented performer who has been making his name known throughout our area. This weekend, he'll be challenging Mario Pardua for the Midwest Wrestling Coalition Heavyweight Championship in Brighton, IL. Brandon and Dante discuss his origins in wrestling as well and what his ultimate goals are. You can find more information for this weekend's free show at Midwest Wrestling Coalition's Facebook and Instagram pages.

Front Row Classics welcomes author and journalist, Jennifer O'Callaghan to discuss one of Alfred Hitchcock's seminal masterpieces. Jennifer recently penned a book called "Rear Window: The Making of a Hitchcock Masterpiece in the Hollywood Golden Age". The book chronicles the origins, production and legacy of a film that remains one of the most beloved in the Hitchcock canon.  "Rear Window: The Making of a Hitchcock Masterpiece in the Hollywood Golden Age" is available from Citadel wherever books are sold.  Jennifer O'Callaghan is a freelance writer and journalist. She has worked as a reporter for Metro News, The Sundance Channel, Shaw TV, and CKUA radio in news, entertainment, and lifestyle beats. She has also appeared as a red-carpet reporter for the web entertainment site MyBroadway.com, and as host on Paradetown USA on NYC-TV. She has interviewed celebrities including Will Ferrell, Meryl Streep, and Cameron Diaz, and appeared as a featured model on The Today Show and The View. She currently lives in Toronto and can be found online at JenniferOCallaghan.com.

Front Row Classics welcomes author Samuel Garza Bernstein to the show. Brandon and Samuel are discussing his newest book, "Cesar Romero: The Joker is Wild". This is the first biography ever written on the legendary performer.  "Cesar Romero: The Joker is Wild" is available from University Press of Kentucky wherever books are sold. Samuel Garza Bernstein is a bestselling author, a Stonewall Book Award winner, and an award-winning screenwriter and playwright whose work often reflects the wild intersections of modern life. He, his husband Ronald Shore, and their pack of incorrigible dachshunds split their time between Porto, Portugal, and Los Angeles, California.

After the success of Brandon and Peter's discussion of cigarettes on film, Front Row Classics is bring you movies that are defined by alcohol. Brandon is joined by Emmett Stanton to discuss their top five drinking films. The movies discussed span multiple eras and genres. Brandon and Emmett discuss how drinking can define a film's DNA through bubbly comedy or thought provoking drama. Let us know your thoughts. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most underrated films of Humphrey Bogart's career. Brandon is joined by author and film historian Christ Yogerst to chat about 1937's Black Legion. The film, directed by Archie Mayo, is a hardboiled socially relevant film that still shocks in 2025. Brandon and Chris also discuss the risk Warner Brothers took in brining it bringing it to the screen.

The Front Row Network is pleased to welcome independent professional wrestler, Matthew Ennis. Brandon sits down with Matt to discuss his journey through the world of wrestling. The two talk about Matt's military background, early days in the business and his journey to joining House of Champions in Orlando, FL. We also discus his process in preparing for matches and what the future may hold.

Front Row Classics welcomes Steve Cubine and Nan McNamara to the show. Steve and Nan have their own classic Hollywood podcast called, "From Beneath the Hollywood Sign" which covers wide-ranging topics from the Golden Age of Hollywood. The two join Brandon for a deep-dive discussion on the best of Warner Brothers.

Front Row Classics is celebrating one of Alfred Hitchcock's most underrated masterpieces. Brandon welcomes author Stephen Rebello to discuss his new book, "Criss-Cross: The Making of Hitchcock's Dazzling Subversive Masterpiece, Strangers on a Train". The book is a witty and insightful look at a film filled with quirky and eccentric performances. Brandon and Stephen also discuss the political climate surrounding the film's production in the early 1950s. "Criss-Cross: The Making of Hitchcock's Dazzling Subversive Masterpiece, Strangers on a Train" is available from Running Press wherever books are sold. Stephen Rebello is a screenwriter and bestselling author of Alfred Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho and Dolls! Dolls! Dolls!: Deep Inside Valley of the Dolls, the Most Beloved Bad Book and Movie of All Time. He has written screenplays for Disney, Paramount, Focus Features, and others. He has written for GQ, Playboy, Movieline, Hollywood Life, Statement, More, and Cosmopolitan. Born in southern New England, he is a longtime resident of southern California.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at the use of cigarettes as props in film. Brandon and Peter Martin are counting down their top 5 moments involving smoking in classic film. Directors and performers during the Golden Age knew how to use a cigarette for storytelling and dramatic purposes. Both Brandon and Peter ended up having very different takes on the topic. Let us know what you think of our lists.

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Scott Brogan to the show. Scott is an author and webmaster of The Judy Room online. He recently penned "Judy Garland: The Voice of MGM", which chronicles Garland's 15-year career at the studio that made her a star. Brandon and Scott discuss the highlights of her MGM life as well as some of the rich details included in the book. "Judy Garland: The Voice of MGM" is available from Lyons Press wherever books are sold. Scott Brogan is the webmaster and author of the world-famous The Judy Room website which includes the biggest and most detailed Garland discography ever compiled. He is also the author and webmaster of the Judy Garland News & Events blog which features the resource “On This Day” series that presents thousands of images and details about Garland's life and career for each day of the year. For four years, Brogan worked as a researcher and author for the San Francisco Silent Film Festival. His program essays are cataloged by the Library of Congress and translated into several languages. He recently co-produced and wrote the liner notes for the successful “Judy at 100 - 26 Classics In Stereo” CD release. He lives in Kansas City, Missouri.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at an unsung musical from the 1940s. Brandon is joined by film historian & content creator Harry Marks to discuss 1944's Step Lively. The movie marked the first starring role for Frank Sinatra on film. The lighthearted musical also features a score by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn. Harry also has a personal connection to the movie which we discuss in the episode. You can find Harry's content here: https://linktr.ee/hcmarks?ref=lobbyintros.com

Front Row Classics is paying tribute to the late Gene Hackman who passed away earlier this year. Brandon is joined by, friend of the podcast, Lou Hare to chat about Hackman and highlight 1974's The Conversation. Brandon and Lou discuss Hackman's body of work and his ability to remain honest in every performance. 

Front Row Classics welcomes some friends of the podcast for another top 5 list. Brandon welcomes Mary-Catherine Pazzano and Dana Harrison to rank our personal top 5 MGM Musicals. Brandon, MC and Dana bonded at the TCM Film Festival in 2024 over the genre and are bringing their opinions to the forefront. Let us know if you agree with our picks.

Front Row Classics is celebrating the legacy of Gary Cooper. Brandon recently sat down with Cooper's daughter, Maria Cooper Janis for an insightful and warm conversation. Brandon and Maria discuss growing up in Hollywood, her Father's films and finding your own voice. We also touch upon Maria's passion for the visual arts. You can find out more about Maria here: https://www.mariacooperjanis.com/

Front Row Classics welcomes three beloved cast members of The Love Boat this week. Brandon chats with Ted Lange, Fred Grandy and Jill Whelan about a play the three are currently involved with. "Lady Patriot", written and directed by Lange, is currently running off-Broadway. Fred and Jill are among the talented cast of actors. The story is based on true Civil War events which is explained within the episode. We also spend time discuss an exciting new Love Boat podcast which all three are involved. "Lady Patriot" runs through September 20th. Ticket information can be found at https://bfany.org/theatre-row/shows/lady-patriot/.  

The Front Row Network welcomes two of WOW Women of Wrestling's most charismatic superheroes. Brandon is chatting with Animal Instinct (Goldie Collins and Katarina Jinx) about the premiere of Season 4 this weekend. The three discuss Goldie and Katarina's rise in WOW as well as their performance backgrounds. They also settle the age-old question if cats and dogs really can get along. You can find Goldie and Katarina on IG at : @goldiecollins_wow  @katarinajinx_wow   WOW - Women Of Wrestling is the premier all-female sports entertainment property, co-founded and co-owned by Jeanie Buss and David McLane. Led by the inspiring larger-than-life WOW Superheroes and their in-ring rivalries, WOW is an action-packed saga showcasing supreme athleticism and empowering stories centered around uplifting women and fans of all ages around the world.    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 Distribution launched an all-wrestling FAST channel called Wrestling Central available now on The Roku Channel in the U.S. and Canada featuring new weekly matches from WOW.    Fans can check their local listings and learn more about WOW on wowe.com.

Front Row Classics takes a deep dive into one of Bette Davis's most iconic performances. Brandon is joined by Scott Gardner to explore the 1941 film The Little Foxes, a masterful adaptation of Lillian Hellman's celebrated play. Together, they highlight the impeccable direction of William Wyler and shine a spotlight on the stellar supporting cast, including Teresa Wright, Herbert Marshall, Dan Duryea, and Patricia Collinge.

Brandon Davis welcomes Klarissa Becksted, host of the new film podcast I've Seen That One, to discuss one of the most iconic spy thrillers of the 1970s on Front Row Classics. The episode explores Sydney Pollack's stylish and suspenseful direction, the effortless charisma of Robert Redford, and standout performances by Faye Dunaway, Max von Sydow, and John Houseman. Brandon and Klarissa also reflect on the era's political paranoia and how it shaped the film's enduring relevance and tension-filled narrative.

Front Row Classics is celebrating one of the finest films in the legendary careers of Bob Hope and Lucille Ball: The Facts of Life (1960). Brandon and Emmett Stanton take a closer look at this witty and sophisticated comedy, directed and co-written by Melvin Frank alongside his longtime collaborator, Norman Panama. The film offers a refreshing departure from typical romantic comedies of the era, providing both Bob and Lucy with rich, layered roles that highlight their dramatic and comedic range. Brandon and Emmett also spotlight standout supporting performances from Don DeFore, Ruth Hussey, and Louis Nye, while exploring the film's surprisingly poignant themes beneath the laughs.

Front Row Classics is shining a spotlight on one of the most underrated gems of Hollywood's golden year, 1939. Brandon is joined by writer and podcaster Emily Edwards to discuss Midnight, the sparkling romantic comedy directed by Mitchell Leisen. Featuring a razor-sharp script by Billy Wilder and Charles Brackett, the film delivers wit, charm, and a dose of zany fun from start to finish. Brandon and Emily dive into the film's irresistible performances, celebrating the impeccable work of Claudette Colbert, Don Ameche, Mary Astor, and John Barrymore. Join them as they explore why Midnight deserves a brighter place in the spotlight of classic film history.

Front Row Classics sits down with actor and filmmaker Raji Ahsan. Raji recently wrote an upcoming short film entitled Dr. Sam. He and Brandon chat about the origins of the film and how he came about casting both Lucie Arnaz and Alec Baldwin in the film. The two also discuss Raji's background in the arts and the journey he's taken to get to this point. Raji's personal stories about his connections to Arnaz and Baldwin are both touching and inspiring. The two also celebrate their love of I Love Lucy since childhood. 

Front Row Classics celebrates Judy Holliday's Oscar winning performance in 1950's Born Yesterday. Brandon and Peter Martin take a look at one of greatest stage to screen translations of a play in film history. The two discuss Holliday's legendary characterization of Billie Dawn. The performances of William Holden and Broderick Crawford are also celebrated. We also discuss the amazing body of work of George Cukor and the legendary 1950 Best Actress Oscar race.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of most audacious films of the 1930s. Brandon is joined by Christian Blauvelt from IndieWire to take a look at 1939's Confessions of a Nazi Spy. The two discuss the bravery of Warner Brothers to take a stand against Nazi Germany when it was not popular to do so. They also discuss the film's documentary feel thanks to director, Anatole Litvak. The lead performance of Edward G Robinson is also celebrated.

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome Melody Thomas Scott to the show. Melody has delighted audiences at Nikki Newman on The Young and the Restless since 1979.  She and Brandon sit down to discuss he lengthy acting career which began when she was three. They discuss her work in films like Marnie, The Shootist and The Beguiled. Melody also reminisces about her memories of luminaries such as John Wayne, Alfred Hitchcock, Kirk Douglas and Clint Eastwood. We also discuss Melody and Brandon's shared love of I Love Lucy. 

Front Row Classics is happy to welcome Anita Swift to the show. Anita is the oldest granddaughter of John Wayne. She sits down with Brandon to chat about her grandfather's legacy, share personal stories and give insight into the icon we all know as "The Duke". Brandon and Anita also spend time discussing one of the Duke's greatest films, Rio Bravo and conclude by discussing the work and impact of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. You can find out more about the work of the Foundation at https://johnwayne.org/.

Front Row Classics welcomes author & historian, Lara Gabrielle to celebrate the life of Marion Davies. Lara's book, "Captain of Her Soul: The Life of Marion Davies", is a meticulously researched biography detailing Davies' trailblazing life. Brandon and Lara mention the many misconceptions of Davies' life & career. They also chat about Davies paving the way for comediennes from Carole Lombard & Lucille Ball to Carol Burnett & Madeline Kahn.

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome author Martin Turnbull to the show for the first time. Martin is an accomplished scribe who has written several series of historical fiction novels set during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Brandon and Martin discuss his origins as a classic film lover and segue into a chat about Hollywood during World War II. They also mention Martin's latest "Hollywood Home Front Trilogy" which features many dramatic aspects of Hollywood's war years. You can find more information about his work at martinturnbull.com.  

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Dog Day Afternoon. Brandon welcomes back Matt Duffy to take a look at this landmark crime drama from the legendary Sidney Lumet. The two take a look at the Oscar nominated performance from Al Pacino in one of his signature roles. The performances of John Cazale, Charles Durning, Chris Sarandon and James Broderick are also celebrated. Brandon and Matt also talk about the authenticity of movies filmed in New York City in the 70s.

Front Row Classics welcomes back author & historian Olympia Kiriakou to discuss another gem from Carole Lombard's filmography. Brandon and Olympia are taking a look at Hands Across the Table from 1935. The two discuss the romantic chemistry between Lombard and Fred MacMurray. The sleek direction from the underrated Mitchell Leisen is also praised.

Turner Classics Movies is celebrating its' yearly Summer Under the Stars festival this August. Brandon is thrilled to welcome back actor/comedian, Mario Cantone to the show. Mario is co-hosting every Wednesday night with Ben Mankiewicz this August. His stint premieres tonight at 8pm est/7pm cst with Judy Garland. Mario and Ben will also celebrate James Cagney, Shirley MacLaine and Joan Crawford on the following Wednesdays. 

Front Row Classics welcomes back author Mayukh Sen to celebrate Merle Oberon. Brandon and Mayukh are taking a look at one of Merle's greatest screen performances. 1941's Lydia provided Merle with a perfect vehicle to showcasing her talent & beauty. The two celebrate the incredible camera work and pace from director Julien Duvivier. We also honor the supporting cast including Joseph Cotten, George Reeves the final screen appearance from Edna May Oliver. Mayukh's book "Love, Queenie" is still available wherever books are sold. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the earliest triumphs of Katherine Hepburn's career. Brandon and Peter Martin are taking a look at 1935's Alice Adams. The hosts chat about the screenplay adapted from the Booth Tarkington novel. We also discuss the direction by George Stevens in one of his earlier efforts.

Brandon welcomes back, friend of the podcast, Jeremy Arnold to celebrate Christmas in July. Jeremy is the author of "Christmas in the Movies: 35 Classics to Celebrate the Season" and is highlighting two lesser known gems. We start of with We're No Angels from 1955 which is celebrating its 70th anniversary. Brandon and Jeremy, then, discuss the 20th anniversary of Joyeux Noel from 2005.  "Christmas in the Movies" is still available from TCM and Running Press wherever books are sold.

The summer heat is raging and Front Row Classics is taking a look at some of our favorite summer movies. Brandon is joined by Jessica Pickens, an unabashed fan of summer, to count down their top 5 favorite classic films to watch in summer. Our picks run the gamut of stars from Frankie & Annette to James Cagney to Sandra Dee and Elvis.   

Front Row Classics welcomes back, friend of the podcast, Morgan Matson to take a look at 1943's A Guy Named Joe. This romantic, WW2 melodrama still packs an emotional punch due to the performances of Spencer Tracy, Irene Dunne and Van Johnson. Brandon and Morgan discuss the MGM gloss along with Victor Fleming's well-paced direction.

The Front Row Network welcomes the Midwest Wrestling Coalition to the show. Brandon sits down with booker/promoter Shane Walters to preview their upcoming show this Saturday, July 26th. The show is entitled "Wrestling Like It's 1989". Brandon and Shane discuss the details of the show and how it will be a throwback to old school wrestling. We, then welcome MWC World Coalition Champion, Mario Pardua followed by Jayson Breed and Clean Cut Cole Stevens to preview all of the action-packed fun.  The show will be at Alton Wood River Sportsman Club in Godfrey, IL. Doors open at 6pm with bell time at 7pm. 

Front Row Classics is stepping into the 1990s to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Pretty Woman. Brandon and April Clemmer are discussing the classic film connections that permeate throughout the classic Garry Marshall comedy. They also pay tribute to the performances of Julia Roberts, Richard Gere, Hector Elizondo and the final screen appearance of Ralph Bellamy. The two also pine about the lost art of romantic comedies.

Front Row Classics welcomes Kevin John Goff to the podcast. Kevin is the great-grand-nephew of Hattie McDaniel and Executive Director of the Hattie McDaniel Estate. Brandon and Kevin discusses Hattie's journey through show business and road to Hollywood. The two discuss the many barriers she broke and her astonishing perseverance. Kevin also discusses the many projects he's involved with keeping the McDaniel legacy alive. You can find all of the updates at www.hattiemcdaniel.com

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back Turner Classics Movies' host, Ben Mankiewicz. Brandon and Ben are chatting about the new season of the TCM podcast, The Plot Thickens. This season focuses on the storied production of 1963's Cleopatra. Ben's great-uncle, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, helmed the mammoth production and had to navigate through one of the most stressful shoots in Hollywood history. This season, you'll hear many of the participants through their own words. Some long-standing myths will even be busted,  The new season of The Plot Thickens drops tomorrow, July 17th and all podcast apps.