The Oscar Project Podcast

Send us a textToday's episode is the first of several year end episodes where I recap 2025 and look ahead into 2026. First up are my top 10s of 2025 where my lists include:Top movie books I read in 2025Top short film of 2025Biggest surprises and disappointments of 2025Top first time watches in 2025Top films of 2025Be sure to check out my Substack newsletter for full articles on each of these as we count down to the new year and my next episode where I will be recapping everything that happened on the podcast in 2025.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Divorcee. I'm joined by Beth Lisogorsky from the You Need to Watch This! newsletter and we talk about Norma Shearer's Oscar-nominated performance, how different the film might have been had it been released a few years later under the Hayes Production Code guidelines, and the complex set of relationships the film uses to delve into all sorts of love and loyalty. You can watch The Divorcee online for yourself or pick up a DVD copy, and be sure to check out Beth's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:King of Jazz directed by John Murray AndersonWhen Harry Met Sally directed by Rob ReinerThe Philadelphia Story directed by George CukorWar of the Roses directed by Danny DeVitoThe Roses directed by Jay RoachTheir Own Desire directed by E. Mason HopperThe Gold Rush directed by Charlie ChaplinThe Jazz Singer directed by Alan CroslandAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneThe Big House directed by George HillOther referenced topics:Ex-Wife (novel) by Ursula ParrottVariety review of the filmDanny Reid writing on pre-code.comJessica Stewart writing on attaboyclarence.comCinerama.com reviewSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Giovanna Ferrari, director of the animated short film "Éiru," her directorial debut which is currently on the shortlist for Best Animated Short Film for the 98th Academy Awards.Listen to hear about the inspiration for the story that stemmed from Giovanna's own travels around the world, the importance of being willing to see the world through the eyes of people not like ourselves, and whether an entire generation can feel like they lack a voice in the world.Books mentioned in this episode include:Victory City by Salman RushdieParable of the Sower by Octavia E. ButlerThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodQ by Luther BissetFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Éiru" directed by Giovanna FerrariSong of the Sea directed by Tomm MooreThe Breadwinner directed by Nora TwomeyWolfwalkers directed by Ross Stewart and Tomm Moore"Screecher's Reach" (Star Wars Visions episode)My Father's Dragon directed by Nora TwomeyPrincess Mononoke directed by Hayao MiyazakiThe Power of the Dog directed by Jane CampionAmarcord directed by Federico FelliniAlien directed by Ridley ScottSilence of the Lambs directed by Jonathan DemmeHamnet directed by Chloé Zhao"Late Afternoon" directed by Louise BagnallJulián directed by Louise BagnallFollow the film on Instagram @eiruofficial and Giovanna @ferrarianimation.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film King of Jazz. I'm joined by Matthew Brady from the Warren Peace newsletter and we talk about the use of color in this film that sets it apart for many other films of the time, the relative success of various comedy bits throughout the film, and how many of the sequences throughout are reminiscent of the vaudeville days. You can watch King of Jazz online for yourself or pick up the Criterion release of the film, and be sure to check out Matthew's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:"Sinkin' in the Bathtub" directed by Hugh Harman and Rudolf IsingAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis Milestone"Africa" directed by Walter LantzHollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerSingin' in the Rain directed by Stanley Donen and Eugene KellyThe Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingDuck Soup directed by Leo McCareyBulldog Drummond directed by F. Richard JonesThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschSally directed by John Francis DillonThe Vagabond King directed by Ludwig BergerOther referenced topics:Bewitched (series)All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque"Rhapsody in Blue" (song) by George GershwinReviews from A New Movie and The New York Times on WikipediaDanny Reid writing on pre-code.comNow You Has King of Jazz essay on The Criterion CollectionSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Alex Thompson, director of the short film "Em & Selma Go Griffin Hunting," the story of a mother and daughter faced with difficult choices as they take part in a coming-of-age hunt set in a fictional 1930s America.Listen to hear about how Alex's world building for the film began with the characters, the process of casting the main characters of the film to ensure they had the right level of humanity for the story, and the challenge of creating a set of digital creatures to inhabit the world that would look like high quality blockbuster effects on a small short film budget.Books mentioned in this episode include:Aesop's FablesGrimm's Fairy TalesThe Great Mother: An Analysis of the Archetype by Erich NeumannBaudolino by Umberto EcoThe Name of the Rose by Umberto EcoSapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah HarariFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Em & Selma Go Griffin Hunting" directed by Alex ThompsonJurassic Park directed by Steven SpielbergHereditary directed by Ari AsterThe Walking Dead (series)The Grapes of Wrath directed by John Ford"La jetée" directed by Chris Marker12 Monkeys directed by Terry Gilliam"Un Chien Andalou" directed by Luis Buñuel"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" directed by Robert EnricoAvatar directed by James CameronBlade Runner directed by Ridley Scott2001: A Space Odyssey directed by Stanley KubrickEverything Everywhere All at Once directed by Dan Kwan and Daniel ScheinertNight of the Hunter directed by Charles LaughtonCome and See directed by Elem KlimovThe Passion of Joan of Arc directed by Carl Th. DreyerThe Seventh Seal directed by Ingmar BergmanApocalypse Now directed by Francis Ford CoppolaThe Cabinet of Dr. Caligari directed by Robert Wiene12 Angry Men directed by Sidney LumetPoor Things directed by Yorgos LanthimosThe Thin Red Line directed by Terrence MalickFollow the film on Instagram @emandselmagogriffinhunting and Alex @alexanderthompsonfilms.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Sarah and Son. I'm joined by Matthew Carlson from the What Am I Making newsletter and we talk about whether the film would even survive today if not for Chatterton's Academy Award nomination for her performance as Sarah, compare lost films to what it would be like if our music catalog was missing dozens of Elvis or Beatles recordings, and learn about interesting familial connections and an actress who was a bit of a daredevil in her spare time. You can watch Sarah and Son online for yourself and be sure to check out Matt's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Anna Christie directed by Clarence Leon Brown"The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat Station" directed by the Lumière BrothersThe Devil's Holiday directed by Edmund GouldingAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneGone With the Wind directed by Victor FlemingMetropolis directed by Fritz LangDr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931) directed by Rouben MamoulianThe Best Years of Our Lives directed by William WylerInherit the Wind directed by Stanley KramerDeath of a Salesman directed by László BenedekThe Fighting Lady directed by Edward SteichenRaising Arizona directed by Joel CoenThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardOther referenced topics:Roseanne (series)The Big Bang Theory (series)Young Sheldon (series)New York Times review of the filmCatherine writing on obscurecinemamagicHomeward Bound (book) by Ruth ChattertonSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Christoffer Stenbakken, director of the short film "The Thief," which follows a boy in a remote town in East Greenland as he looks for his dog that has gone missing.Listen to hear about the challenges of filming with a small crew in a remote location, trying to find the film's lead actors around town when they didn't have phones, and the story's foundation in the personal life of the lead actor.Books mentioned in this episode include:Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeerBorne by Jeff VanderMeerThe Strange Bird: A Borne Story by Jeff VanderMeerFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The Thief" directed by Christoffer Rizvanovic StenbakkenLa Promesse (The Promise) directed by Luc and Jean-Pierre DardenneLe Fils (The Son) directed by Luc and Jean-Pierre DardenneA Prophet directed by Jacques AudiardKilling of a Chinese Bookie directed by John CassavetesWinter's Bone directed by Debra GranikThe Big Lebowski directed by Joel CoenUnforgiven directed by Clint EastwoodScooby-Doo directed by Raja GosnellAnnihilation directed by Alex GarlandFollow Christoffer on Instagram @christofferstenbakken.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Anna Christie. I'm joined by Swabreen Bakr from the Anti-Brain Rot newsletter and we talk about Greta Garbo's first words heard on screen, how the film addresses women's issues at a time when that was not a topic of conversation in film, and how the film looks at characters of lower social status in a time when many movies focused on the rich and well off.You can watch Anna Christie online for yourself and be sure to check out Swabreen's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Manchurian Candidate (1962) directed by John FrankenheimerGrand Prix directed by John FrankenheimerThe Island of Dr. Moreau directed by John FrankenheimerA Woman of Affairs directed by Clarence BrownThe Big House directed by George HillReds directed by Warren BeattyDynamite directed by Cecil B. DeMilleAnna Christie (1923) directed by John Griffith WrayEleanor the Great directed by Scarlett JohanssonThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschHell's Angels directed by Howard Hughes and James WhaleAll Quite on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneWith Byrd at the South Pole directed by Julian JohnsonThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardAnora directed by Sean BakerOther referenced topics:Audiobook recording of the playAnna Christie (print version of play) by Eugene O'NeilNew York Times review by Morduant HallVariety reviewDanny Reid on pre-code.comTCM write-up on the filmSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Liz Rao, director of the short film "The Truck," which explores the story of a teenage girl and her boyfriend seeking out the morning-after pill in a small town.Listen to hear about Liz's need to tell this story following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, how she made a film with a strict script that still allowed for improvisation from her actors, and some perfect behavior from the weather when it came to shooting the pivotal scene in the film.Books mentioned in this episode include:Stay True: A Memoir by Hua HsuWeather Girl by Brian WatkinsRacecar Racecar Racecar by Kallan DanaFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The Truck" directed by Liz RaoBeast Beast directed by Danny MaddenDìdi directed by Sean WangFunny Pages directed by Owen KlineRatcatcher directed by Lynne RamsayThe Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaDo the Right Thing directed by Spike LeeThe Sopranos (series)Paper Moon directed by Peter BogdanovichThere Will Be Blood directed by Paul Thomas AndersonFollow Liz on Instagram @lizrao and check out the film's website at www.thetruckfilm.com.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Vagabond King. I'm joined by Rebecca Deniston from the Taking Up Room blog and Taking Up More Room newsletter and we talk about how movie musicals continue to be very stagey, try to come up with other films where a character changes identity and is unrecognized by his friends, and look at some great performances from several actors early on in their careers. You can watch The Vagabond King online for yourself and be sure to check out Rebecca's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:If I Were King directed by J. Gordon EdwardsThe Vagabond King (1956) directed by Michael CurtizPrincess Diaries directed by Garry MarshallLes Misérables directed by Tom HooperMank directed by David FincherCitizen Kane directed by Orson WellesThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschThe Letter directed by Jean De LimurThe Bride of Frankenstein directed by James WhaleCharlie Chan filmsRocky and Bullwinkle (series)Wicked directed by Jon M. ChuKing of Jazz directed by John Murray AndersonOther referenced topics:The Poems of François Villon by François VillonVariety review and full page advertisementDanny Reid's review on pre-code.comMark Conlan writing on MovieMaggSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Salvatore Scarpa, Max Burgoyne-Moore, and Rachid Sabitri, the directors and producer of the short film "Largo," a look at the refugee experience through the eyes of a young child.Listen to hear about knowing that they had the right actor to play their young lead, a very ambitious script which turned out to be easier to write than to film, and one sure fire way to test and see if a boat actually floats.Books mentioned in this episode include:Big Swiss by Jen BeaginThe Complete Cosmicomics by Italo CalvinoShit, Actually: The Definitive, 100% Objective Guide to Modern Cinema by Lindy WestThe Prophet by Kahlil GibranFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Largo" directed by Salvatore Scarpa and Max Burgoyne-MooreBicycle Thieves directed by Vittorio De SicaThe Battle of Algiers directed by Gillo PotecorvoPan's Labyrinth directed by Guillermo del ToroLooney TunesThe Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaBack to the Future directed by Robert ZemeckisLove Actually directed by Richard CurtisBarbie directed by Greta Gerwig"Yellow" directed by Elham EhsasFollow the film on Instagram @largo.film.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Green Goddess. I'm joined by Murray Mintz from the CineVibeZ Fanzine newsletter and we talk about how much fun George Arliss clearly has playing this role, the differences between the silent version and talkie version of the film, and we try to unravel a twisted knot of a love quadrangle. You can watch The Green Goddess online for yourself and be sure to check out Murray's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Pink Panther directed by Blake EdwardsThe Towering Inferno directed by John Guillermin and Irwin AllenAustin Powers: International Man of Mystery directed by Jay RoachSpace Jam: A New Legacy directed by Malcolm D. LeeThe Green Goddess (1923) directed by Sidney OlcottAladdin directed by John Musker and Ron ClementsDisraeli directed by Alfred E. GreenAdventure in Iraq directed by D. Ross LedermanBlood Island (film series)The King of Kings directed by Cecil B. DeMilleSunset Boulevard directed by Billy WilderLost Horizon directed by Frank CapraThe Jackie Robinson Story directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Jolson Story directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Jazz Singer directed by Alan CroslandThe Eddie Cantor Story directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Lion King directed by Roger Allers and Rob MinkoffOther referenced topics:The Fugitive (series)Variety reviewFilm Daily reviewDanny Reid's review on pre-code.comIf you are interested in seeing AI generated videos of George Arliss, check out www.arlissarchives.com.Support the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Phil Mazo, director of the short film "Replay," a short docucomedy that explores a memory from his own past.Listen to hear about the challenges of making a documentary film about yourself, how Phil went about reaching out to the original interviewer to involve him in the project, and how certain memories can become lasting images in your mind even decades later.Books mentioned in this episode include:The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace: A Brilliant Young Man Who Left Newark for the Ivy League by Jeff HobbsHustle Harder, Hustle Smarter by Curtis "50 Cent" JacksonBe Useful: Seven Tools for Life by Arnold SchwarzeneggerAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James ClearFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Replay" directed by Phil MazoGoodfellas directed by Martin ScorseseSchindler's List directed by Steven SpielbergFargo directed by Joel and Ethan CoenBack to the Future directed by Robert ZemeckisRob Peace directed by Chiwetel Ejiofor"Medusa" directed by Courtney Podraza"What the Heck Is Going On." directed by Greg RubnerMouse directed by Kenny RichesFollow the Phil on Instagram @philmazo.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film Street of Chance. I'm joined by Amanda Kusek from The 90-Minute Movie newsletter and we talk about how the gambling murder in the film ands up being front page news, how it is sometimes easier to follow a silent film than a sound film with poor sound quality, and how many of the stars of this film had just started acting in films after having successful Broadway careers. You can watch Street of Chance online for yourself and be sure to check out Amanda's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Babylon directed by Damian ChazelleOcean's Eleven directed by Steven SoderberghRounders directed by John DahlCasino Royale directed by Martin CampbellCimarron directed by Wesley RugglesThe Big House directed by George HillOther referenced topics:The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Alexandra Bahíyyih Wain, director of the short film "In the Clouds," a story of a family of Iranian refugees and the struggles they face in contemporary London.Listen to hear about the inspiration for the story based on anti-immigration sentiment, how the shooting location became a bit of a character unto itself, and the challenges of finding actors to play her lead roles that fit a very specific set of skills.Books mentioned in this episode include:The works of Stephen KingI Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World by Malala YousafzaiHabibi by Craig ThompsonThe Life of Pi by Yann Martel On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen KingFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"In the Clouds" directed by Alexandra Bahíyyih WainThe films of Mike FlanniganThe Haunting of Hill House (series)The Humans directed by Stephen KaramThe Innocents directed by Eskil VogtA Girl Walks Home Alone at Night directed by Ana Lily AmirpourBurn After Reading directed by Joel and Ethan CoenErin Brockovich directed by Steven SoderberghLegally Blonde directed by Robert LuketicSister Act directed by Emile ArdolinoFollow the film on Instagram @intheclouds.film and Alexandra @alexbahiyyihwain.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1930 film The Rogue Song. I'm joined by Helen Cox from the Movies of Note newsletter and we talk about how MGM could let a momentous film like this end up lost over the years, the incredible work put in by YouTuber Unreeled8 to recreate the film from what we do have remaining, and how MGM marketed the film as a Laurel and Hardy production rather than relying on the relatively new stars that featured more prominently in the film. You can watch the reconstruction of The Rogue Song by Unreeled8 on YouTube and be sure to check out Helen's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Big directed by Penny MarshallThe Birds directed by Alfred HitchcockSuch Men Are Dangerous directed by Kenneth HawksSingin' in the Rain directed by Stanley Donen and Eugene KellyRaider of the Lost Ark directed by Steven SpielbergMadame X directed by Lionel BarrymoreHollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerScream directed by Wes CravenBulldog Drummond directed by F. Richard JonesCondemned directed by Wesley RugglesDisraeli directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Green Goddess directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschRomancing the Stone directed by Robert ZemeckisOther referenced topics:Martin Dickstein's 1930 review in the Brooklyn EaglePhil Hall writing on cinema-crazed.comMacbeth by William ShakespeareHamlet by William ShakespeareSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Tobias Eckerlin, director of the short film "A Sparrow's Song," a story of a widowed air raid warden in the midst of World War II struggles to overcome grief and rediscover joy in her life.Listen to hear about the challenges of creating a consistent look and feel in an animated virtual world, the importance of using sound and music to support and enhance the visual world, and what the experience of the Student Academy Awards was like.Books mentioned in this episode include:Mouthful of Birds: Stories by Samanta SchweblinBurial Rites by Hannah KentFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"A Sparrow's Song" directed by Tobias EckerlinZodiac directed by David FincherThe Lord of the Rings directed by Peter JacksonStalker directed by Andrei TarkovskyRatatouille directed by Brad BirdSoul directed by Pete DocterAladdin directed by John Musker and Ron ClementsFollow Tobias on Instagram @tobiaseckerlin.visuals.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Their Own Desire. I'm joined by Maria Banson from the Brunello Bombshell newsletter and we talk about Norma Shearer's place as an inspiration for women in Hollywood of the time, the portrayal of a young athletic woman on screen, and a special bond between father and daughter that is a throughline in the film. You can watch Their Own Desire on YouTube or rent it from Amazon and be sure to check out Maria's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Sunset Boulevard directed by Billy WilderThe Last of Mrs. Cheyney directed by Sidney FranklinThe Hollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerThe Private Life of Helen of Troy directed by Alexander Korda (partially lost film)The Patriot directed by Ernst Lubitsch (lost film)Wonder of Women directed by Clarence Brown (lost film)A Woman of Affairs directed by Clarence BrownMadame X directed by Lionel BarrymoreThe Big House directed by George HillRomance directed by Clarence BrownCoquette directed by Sam TaylorThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardAnora directed by Sean BakerOther referenced topics:Their Own Desire (novel) by Sarita FullerThe Crown (series)Letterboxd reviews from Chris Hughes and GentryTerry Sherwood writing on Stardust and ShadowsSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview David and Sam Cutler-Kreutz, the duo over brother directors behind the film "A Lien" which was nominated for Best Live Action Short at the 97th Academy Awards last March. Their latest short film "Trapped" is also qualified for the 98th Academy Awards.Listen to hear about the inspiration for the story based on their own childhood as sons of a teacher, a creative effects solution that solved the central problem of their film, and the story of shooting alongside a much bigger production at the same location. Books mentioned in this episode include:The works of Agatha ChristieAnd Then There Were None by Agatha ChristieRed Rising series by Pierce BrownThe Will of the Many by James IslingtonRules of Civility by Amor TowlesFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Trapped" directed by David and Sam Cutler-Kreutz"A Lien" directed by David and Sam Cutler-KreutzUncut Gems directed by Benny Safdie and Josh SafdieParasite directed by Bong Joon-hoThe Social Network directed by David FincherA Serious Man directed by Ethan Coen and Joel CoenThe Marx Brothers moviesThe Lord of the Rings directed by Peter JacksonAndor (series)Michael Clayton directed by Tony GilroyFollow the film on Instagram @_trappedfilm, David @davidcutlerkreutz, and Sam @samcutlerkreutz.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Sally. I'm joined by Dan Pal from the PalCinema, Television, & Music newsletter and we talk about the use and re-use of popular songs in movies even in the 1930s and 40s, the innovative use of early Technicolor in the film, and how the film might have been much different if made a few years later once the production code was in place. You can watch Sally on Tubi and be sure to check out Dan's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Sound of Music directed by Robert WiseKnives Out directed by Rian JohnsonWith Byrd at the South Pole directed by Julian JohnsonComing to America directed by John LandisSome Like it Hot directed by Billy WilderThe Noose directed by John Francis Dillon (only print located at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City)Song of the Flame directed by Alan Crosland (only partial audio survives)King of Jazz directed by John Murray AndersonThe Broadway Melody directed by Harry BeaumontWeary River directed by Frank LloydOther referenced topics:2016 recording of Sally the musical on SpotifyShowboat (musical)The Honeymooners (series)Comet Over Hollywood review by J. N. PickensSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Elham Ehsas, director of the short film "There Will Come Soft Rains," a story of a young woman confronting the personal implications of rising sea levels resulting from global warming.Listen to hear about the importance of understanding the personal stories of people impacted by climate change, the importance of layered identities in creating a complex character, and the poem that inspired the film's title.Books mentioned in this episode include:"There Will Come Soft Rains" (poem) by Sara TeasdaleCaste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel WilkersonA Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill BrysonSapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah HarariFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"There Will Come Soft Rains" directed by Elham EhsasThe Crown (series)"Yellow" directed by Elham EhsasThe Band's Visit directed by Eran KolirinDil Se.. directed by Mani RatnamHook directed by Steven SpielbergGangs of Wasseypur directed by Anurag KashyapCold War directed by Paweł PawlikowskiIt Was Just an Accident directed by Jafar PanahiFollow Elham on Instagram @zoradzo and the film @softrainsfilm. You can also find Elham on his website at https://elhame.co/.Find out more about Climate Spring and the work they do on their website.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film The Love Parade. I'm joined by Enrico Banson from the Director's Notes newsletter and we talk about some uses of editing we haven't seen much in early sound films, how gender roles and class differences are portrayed in the film, and what people mean when they talk about "Lubitsch Land" in the director's films. You can watch The Love Parade on YouTube and be sure to check out Enrico's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Madam Satan directed by Cecil B. DeMilleThe Aristocats directed by Wolfgang ReithermanAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneThe Big House directed by George W. HillDisraeli directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardStar Wars directed by George LucasWonder Boys directed by Curtis HansonThe Crown (series)The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! directed by David ZuckerThe Naked Gun directed by https://amzn.to/3L2po8pOther referenced topics:Ernst Lubitsch: Laughter in Paradise by Scott EymanPhotoplay ReviewThe Love Parade on TCM.comSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Daniel Persitz, director of the short film "Key of Genius," a story of a young blind autistic savant and the teacher determined to unlock his genius through music.Listen to hear about the process of casting such a specific character, a brief communication with royalty, and the task of picking which music to feature in a film that focuses so much on playing music.Books mentioned in this episode include:In the Key of Genius: The Extraordinary Life of Derek Paravicini by Adam OckelfordThrone of Glass (series) by Sarah J. MaasGame of Thrones (series) by George R. R. MartinFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Key of Genius" directed by Daniel PersitzUp directed by Pete DocterBack to the Future directed by Robert ZemeckisThe King's Speech directed by Tom HooperJurassic Park directed by Steven SpielbergCoco directed by Lee Unkrich and Adrian MolinaThe Shawshank Redemption directed by Frank DarabontGame of Thrones (series)Other media mentioned in this episode:Enigma Variations by Edward ElgarFollow Daniel on Instagram @dpersitz and the film @keyofgenius_film. Check out the 60 Minutes video Daniel mentions at the beginning of the interview on YouTube.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Condemned. I'm joined by Luis Mendez from The Mendez Movie Report and we talk about whether or not it is smart for a prison warden to bring in a prisoner to work in his home, the ongoing development of story pacing in films at this time, and some choices that were made with the intent of taking advantage of the use of sound even in the early stages of sound cinema. You can watch Condemned on YouTube and be sure to check out Luis's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Bulldog Drummond directed by F. Richard JonesCimmaron (1931) directed by Wesley RugglesCimmaron (1960) directed by Anthony MannRaffles directed by George FitzmauriceGone With the Wind directed by Victor FlemingDisraeli directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Big House directed by George HillThe Big Pond directed by Hobart HenleyThe Love Parade directed by Ernst LubitschThe Rogue Song directed by Lionel BarrymoreLost Horizon directed by Frank CapraTempest directed by Sam TaylorTwo Arabian Knights directed by Lewis MilestoneAll Quiet on the Western Front directed by Lewis MilestoneSunrise directed by F.W. MurnauWings directed by William A. WellmanHoliday directed by Edward H. GriffithThe Maltese Falcon directed by Roy Del RuthThe Maltese Falcon directed by John HustonThe Letter directed by Jean De LimurThe Letter directed by William WylerAcquitted directed by Frank R. StrayerOther referenced topics:The Neverending Story (novel) by Michael EndeThe Mary Tyler Moore Show (series)Condemned to Devil's Island: The Biography of an Unknown Convict by Blair NilesDerek Winnert reviewFernando Silva on CineMaven's ESSAYS from the COUCHSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Sam Davis, director of the new short film "The Singers," a beautiful exploration of untapped talent and raw emotion.Listen to hear about the Russian short story that served as the inspiration for the film, some practical steps the production took to make the film feel more timeless, and the process of finding the incredible singers that populate the film.Books mentioned in this episode include:A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life by George Saunders"The Singers" by Ivan TurgenevA Sportsman's Sketches by Ivan TurgenevFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The Singers" directed by Sam Davis"Period. End of Sentence" directed by Rayka Zehtabchi"Nai Nai & Wài Pó" directed by Sean WangDìdi directed by Sean WangStreetwise directed by Martin BellSound of Metal directed by Darius MarderY tu mamá también directed by Alfonso CuaronBoyhood directed by Richard LinklaterHoop Dreams directed by Steve James"Fender Bender" directed by Kurt Andrew SchneiderFollow Sam on Instagram @samdavis and the film @thesingersfilm. You can also follow the singers featured in the film online by checking out @mikeyung, @chrissmithermusic, @sailing_vessel_harlott, @judah_kelly, @tooloudtenor, and @venicedhutch.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film The Trespasser. I'm joined by Kevin Pettit from the See You at the Movies newsletter and we talk about comparisons between relationships of the 1920s and today, the impact of the stock market crash of 1929 on the film industry (and greater economy), and an unexpected hometown connection with the film. You can watch The Trespasser on YouTube or on Vimeo and be sure to check out Kevin's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Letter directed by Jean de Limur (listen to the episode about that film with Lewis Beer)Thelma directed by Josh MargolinThe Wolf of Wall Street directed by Martin ScorseseThe Big Short directed by Adam McKayMargin Call directed by J.C. ChandorToo Big to Fail directed by Curtis HansonThe Broadway Melody directed by Harry BeaumontThe Devil's Holiday directed by Edmund GouldingHell's Angels directed by Howard Hughes and James WhaleGrand Hotel directed by Edmund GouldingNightmare Alley directed by Edmund GouldingThe Dawn Patrol directed by Edmund GouldingThe Irishman directed by Martin ScorseseSadie Thompson directed by Raoul WalshSunset Boulevard directed by Billy WilderDouble Indemnity directed by Billy WilderHoliday directed by Edward H. GriffithBabylon directed by Damien ChazelleThe Grapes of Wrath directed by John FordWeary River directed by Frank LloydDynamite directed by Cecil B. DeMilleIt Happened One Night directed by Frank CapraCitizen Kane directed by Orson WellesDredd directed by Pete TravisThe Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King directed by Peter JacksonBorn Yesterday directed by George CukorAll About Eve directed by Joseph L. MankiewiczCaged directed by John CromwellLurker directed by Alex RussellOther referenced topics:Photo of Gloria Swanson on Wikipedia in her later years"The Trespasser" by Shawn Anthony on Glorious SwansonPhotoplay Magazine reviewVariety reviewOscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears by Michael SchulmanSonny Boy: A Memoir by Al PacinoSupport the show

Send us a textToday's episode is the final episode of my series of double episodes featuring conversations with 2025 Student Academy Award nominees.My first interview today is with 2025 Student Academy Award finalists Loïck du Plessis D'Argentré, Maud Le Bras, and Jiaxin Huang, collaborators on the animated short film "The Shyness of Trees." We discuss thoughts on being away from family, thoughts of losing a parent, and the ability to bring influences from multiple cultures into the film.Following that I chat with 2025 Student Academy Award semi-finalist Atharva Raut, director of the film "Beyond the Conflict." We talk about one of the workers who has developed a strong connection with the animals in his care and what Atharva hopes people learn about the leopard population in Mumbai from his film.Films and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The Skyness of Trees" directed by Sofiia Chuikovska, Loïck du Plessis D'Argentré, Lina Han, Simin He, Jiaxin Huang, Maud Le Bras, and Bingqing Shu"Beyond the Conflict" directed by Atharva RautEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind directed by Michel GondryThe Taste of Tea directed by Katsuhito IshiiThe Sacrifice directed by Andrei TarkovskyInto the Wild directed by Sean PennMy Neighbor Totoro directed by Hayao MiyazakiThe Great Gatsby directed by Baz LuhrmannAutumn Sonata directed by Ingmar BergmanThe Disciple directed by Chaitanya TamhaneVirunga directed by Orlando von EinsiedelThe Dark Knight directed by Christopher NolanDead Poets Society directed by Peter WeirAll That Breathes directed by Shaunak SenFollow "The Shyness of Trees" film account on Instagram @shynessoftrees.gobelins and Maud is @grumpymaud, Loïck is @_ciklo_, and Jiaxin is @huanggechi. For "Beyond the Conflict," follow Atharva @atharva.raut and check out his website at www.atharvaraut.com.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Disraeli. I'm joined by Jeff Kramer from The Death Star Human Resources Department Newsletter and we talk about British politics in the late 1800s, how well George Arliss carries the entire film as the title character, and how it seems like the Russians always make good spies and adversaries in movies regardless of the time period. You can watch Disraeli on YouTube and be sure to check out Jeff's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Disraeli (1921) directed by Henry KolkerAlexander Hamilton directed by John G. AdolfiSuez directed by Otto Brower and Allan DwanAlice in Wonderland directed by Clyde Geronimi , Wilfred Jackson and Hamilton LuskeThe Sound of Music directed by Robert WiseFrankenstein Meets the Wolf Man directed by Roy William NeillBulldog Drummond directed by F. Richard JonesRaffles directed by George FitzmauriceMutiny on the Bounty directed by Frank LloydJealousy directed by Jean de Limur (lost film)The Letter directed by Jean de LimurThe Arsenal Stadium Mystery directed by Thorold DickinsonThe Green Goddess (1930) directed by Alfred E. GreenThe Green Goddess (1923) directed by Sidney OlcottLincoln directed by Steven SpielbergJohn Adams (miniseries) directed by Tom HooperPrivate Parts directed by Betty ThomasOther referenced topics:A Farewell to Arms by Ernest HemingwayDisraeli (play) by Louis ParkerGeorge Smiley books by John le CarréMovie Musings reviewMore information on the Suez CanalNew Zealand Herald reviewThe Pittsburgh Press review"The Old Hollywood Best Picture Challenge: Disraeli (1929)" by Zoe K on Hollywood GenesDisraeli on Turner Classic MoviesSupport the show

Send us a textToday's episode is part of my series of episodes featuring conversations with 2025 Student Academy Award nominees. I spoke with 2025 Student Academy Award semi-finalist Megan Mullen, director of the documentary short film "Secrets of Satellite Beach" and we discuss the light that she wanted to shine on the issue of contaminated water in her home town, working with two incredible activists for for the film, and the challenges of making a film about a topic so close to her heart.Films and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Secrets of Satellite Beach " directed by Megan MullenAll the Beauty and the Bloodshed directed by Laura PoitrasCasino directed by Martin ScorseseYou've Got Mail directed by Nora EphronErin Brockovich directed by Steven SoderberghLegally Blonde directed by Robert LuketicDark Waters directed by Todd Haynes"You Can't Wear That" directed by Eefaa Hassan (forthcoming)"Finding Espee" directed by Megan Mullen (forthcoming)Follow the film on Instagram @secretsofsatellitebeach and Megan on @meganmullenproductions. Also, be sure to check out her website www.meganmullenproductions.com.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Hallelujah. I'm joined by Jonathan Hammond, film director who has multiple shorts on the festival circuit this fall. We talk about many of the problems of the film even though it does include an all African American cast, some interesting images of what life was like at the time in the South, whether or not the film qualifies as a "musical" as we would define it today, and what representation looks like in film both in the past and today.You can watch Hallelujah on YouTube and be sure to give Jonathan a follow on Instagram @jonohamm.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Crowd directed by King VidorWeary River directed by Frank LloydBrokeback Mountain directed by Ang LeeThe Birth of a Nation directed by D. W. GriffithSinners directed by Ryan CooglerHighest 2 Lowest directed by Spike LeeHigh and Low directed by Akira KurosawaHim directed by Justin TippingOther referenced topics:Daniel Haynes's quote in support of the filmThe Migration of Musical Film: From Ethnic Margins to American Mainstream by Desirée J. Garcia referencing William Fountain's objection to his lines in the film"Rediscovering Hallelujah (1929), director King Vidor's sensitive film with all-black cast" by Bernd ReinhardtSupport the show

Send us a textToday's episode is part of my series of double episodes featuring conversations with 2025 Student Academy Award nominees.My first interview today is with 2025 Student Academy Award winner Tatiana McCabe, director of the documentary short film "Tides of Life." We discuss how she came to wildlife filmmaking to help realize a lifelong dream and the challenges that come with being a one woman show filming a documentary.Following that I chat with 2025 Student Academy Award Winner Xindi Zhang, director of the film "The Song of Drifters." We talk about the inspiration for the film in her own experience and the viability of AI as a tool to use in filmmaking.Films and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Tides of Life " directed by Tatiana McCabe"The Song of Drifters" directed by Xindi ZhangThe Rescue directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai VasarhelyiFire of Love directed by Sara DosaAll That Breathes directed by Shaunak SenNews From Home directed by Chantal AkermanPerfect Blue directed by Satoshi KonBlack Swan directed by Darren AronofskyYi Yi directed by Edward YangThe Addams Family directed by Barry SonnenfeldA Clockwork Orange directed by Stanley KubrickAlice in Wonderland directed by Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, and Hamilton LuskeFollow Tatiana on Instagram @tatianamccabe and Xindi at @xindizhangfilm. You can also check out the website for Tatiana's film studio SecondHeart at secondheart.tv and Xindi's website at www.xindizhangart.com.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is the first film discussion episode of the 3rd Academy Awards and my conversation about the 1929 film Bulldog Drummond. I'm joined by Gareth Bradwick from the "Popped" newsletter and we talk about the film's influence on subsequent films in the genre, how the absence of music affects the overall mood of the film, and how this early example of a franchise film is different from what see today. You can watch Bulldog Drummond on YouTube and be sure to check out Gareth's  newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Blackmail directed by Alfred HitchcockJames Bond (films)Dracula directed by Tod Browning and Karl FreundThe Broadway Melody directed by Harry BeaumontThe Hollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerMission: Impossible directed by Brian De PalmaFrankenstein directed by James WhaleThe Valiant directed by William K. HowardBulldog Drummond Strikes Back directed by Roy Del RuthThe Return of Bulldog Drummond directed by Walter SummersBulldog Drummond at Bay directed by Norman LeeThe Divine Lady directed by Frank LloydDisraeli directed by Alfred E. GreenDark Shadows (series)Susperia directed by Dario ArgentoGone with the Wind directed by Victor FlemingArrowsmith directed by John FordDodsworth directed by William WylerBabylon directed by Damian ChazelleThe Great Dictator directed by Charlie ChaplinKing of Jazz directed by John Murray AndersonLord of the Rings directed by Peter JacksonOther referenced topics:James Bond (books)Agatha Christie novelsBulldog Drummond (novel) by Sapper (aka H. C. McNeile)William Cameron Menzies: The Shape of Films to Come by James CurtisNew York Times reviewVariety reviewKingston Gleaner reviewSupport the show

Send us a textToday's episode is part of my series of double episodes featuring conversations with 2025 Student Academy Award nominees.My first interview today is with 2025 Student Academy Award semifinalist Tushar Bhojwani, director of the animated film "Roar of the Tiger." We discuss his experience growing up in what's known as "the land of urban tigers" in Bhopal, India and the delicate balance between humans and nature.Following that I chat with 2025 Student Academy Award Winner Mati Granica, director of the film "flower_gan." We talk about what actually happens when you ask an AI like ChatGPT to generate an image and the implications of using copyrighted content to train AI models.Films and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Roar of the Tiger " directed by Tushar Bhojwani"flower_gan" directed by Mati GranicaInterstellar directed by Christopher NolanThe Social Network directed by David FincherArrival directed by Denis VilleneuveDeadpool directed by Tim MillerPirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl directed by Gore VerbinskiThe Hangover directed by Todd PhillipsTed Lasso (series)Fantastic Mr. Fox directed by Wes AndersonMidsommar directed by Ari AsterAbout Time directed by Richard CurtisDon't Look Up directed by Adam McKayThe Secret Life of Walter Mitty directed by Ben StillerPaddington directed by Paul King"The Fawn and the Blue Heron" directed by Thomas KeevilFollow Tushar on Instagram @tusharbhojwani_wildlife and Mati at @matigranica. You can also check out Mati's website at https://matigranica.co.uk/.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is the beginning of my conversations about the films nominated at the 3rd Academy Awards. I'm joined by Beth Lisogorsky who writes the Beth's TV & Film Recommendations newsletter and we break down some of the history of the 3rd Academy Awards, all of the nominees, and take some a few moments to discuss the one missing film that won't get an individual episode this season.You can check out a short clip of some of the awards being handed out on YouTube along with the video Beth mentioned in the episode from Awards Contender on YouTube.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to get all the news episodes delivered to your device every Friday from now through February 2026 and if you want to be a guest for a film from the 4th Academy Awards, send me a message replying to this episode and let me know you're interested.Nominees of the 3rd Academy Awards (linked films will take you to where you can watch the film online as of the recording of this episode):Bulldog DrummondHallelujahDisraeliThe TrespasserCondemnedThe Love ParadeSallyTheir Own DesireThe Rogue Song (reconstruction only)Street of ChanceThe Green GoddessThe Vagabond KingAnna ChristieSarah and SonThe Case of Sergeant Grischa (unavailable), book is available online for freeKing of JazzThe Divorcee All Quiet on the Western FrontThe Big PondThe Devil's HolidaySong of the FlameHell's AngelsWith Byrd at the South PoleThe Big HouseRafflesRomanceWikipedia article about Oscar nominatedSupport the show

Send us a textToday's episode is the first of a series of double episodes you'll be getting throughout the month of September all featuring conversations with 2025 Student Academy Award nominees.My first interview is with 2025 Student Academy Award Winner Lucas Ansel, director of the animated film "The 12 Inch Pianist." We discuss where he found the story the film was based on and some of what went into making the setting seen on screen.Following that I chat with 2025 Student Academy Award finalist Zolomon Zelko, director of the film "PhotoPlay XX." We talk about how the film is an emotional character arc instead of a narrative arc and getting the perfect abandoned house ready to film in.Films and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"The 12-Inch Pianist" directed by Lucas Ansel"PhotoPlay XX" directed by Zolomon ZelkoShrek directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky JensonParis, Texas directed by Wim WendersCool Hand Luke directed by Stuart RosenbergRatarouille directed by Brad BirdPirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl directed by Gore VerbinskiThe Big Lebowski directed by Joel CoenThe Lord of the Rings trilogy directed by Peter JacksonThe Silence of the Lambs directed by Jonathan DemmeThe Girl with the Needle directed by Magnus von HornShe is Conann directed by Bertrand MandicoMegalopolis directed by Francis Ford CoppolaSpy Kids directed by Robert RodriguezTitus directed by Julie TaymorPonyo directed by Hayao MiyazakiStar Wars directed by George LucasOther topics referenced in this episode include:"Guy Walks Into a Bar" by Simon RichCharming Disaster (musical duo who comprise the cast of "PhotoPlay XX")Kotorino (musical project of Jeff Morris from "PhotoPlay XX")Follow Lucas on Instagram @lucas_ansel and Zolomon at @swampzik.Support the show

Send us a textToday's special episode is a conversation I had with my son Joshua about the 1926 film The General, written by, directed by, and starring Buster Keaton. Joshua recommended this film to me after he saw it in a Film Studies class in school and when I realized I'd never seen the entire thing, we decided to make a podcast episode about it.Take a listen to hear us discuss .You can watch The General on YouTube and a huge thank you to Joshua for helping me edit many podcast episodes over the last few years.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Circus directed by Charlie Chaplin"A Horse in Motion" directed by Eadweard J. Muybridge"A Trip to the Moon" directed by Georges Méliès"The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat Station" by the Lumière BrothersStar Wars directed by George LucasFive Nights at Freddy's directed by Emma TammiJaws directed by Steven SpielbergThe Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingGone With the Wind directed by Victor FlemingCasablanca directed by Michael CurtizSnow White and the Severn Dwarfs directed by David HandOther referenced topics:The Great Locomotive Chase: A History of the Andrews Railroad Raid Into Georgia by William PittengerVariety reviewNew York Times reviewNew York Herald Tribune reviewOrson Wells quote on the Independent Cinema OfficeSupport the show

Send us a textToday's episode is a replay of the very first interview episode from back in June 2023. My guest was Mia Mask, a professor at Vassar College where she teaches African American cinema, Documentary History, and seminars on topics including horror film and auteurs like Spike Lee, Charles Burnett and Ava DuVernay. She also teaches feminist film theory, African national cinemas, and other genre courses. Her commentary can be heard on NPR and her first book Divas on Screen: Black Women in American Film was published in 2009. She joined me back in 2023 to talk about her latest book Black Rodeo: A History of the African American Western.Listen to hear about Mia's work with Criterion, including getting to speak with actor Sidney Poitier, what three of her favorite westerns are, and much more.Books mentioned in this episode include:The Western in the Global South by MaryEllen Higgins, Rita Keresztesi, and Dayna OscherwitzUndead in the West: Vampires, Zombies, Mummies, and Ghosts in the Cinematic Frontier by Cynthia J. Miller and A. Bowdoin Van RiperHorror Noire: Blacks in American Horror Films from the 1890s to Present by Robin R. Means ColemanHorse by Geraldine BrooksFilms mentioned in this episode include:The Learning Tree directed by Gordon ParksBuck and the Preacher directed by Sidney PoitierThomasine and Bushrod directed by Gordon Parks Jr.Queen & Slim directed by Melina MatsoukasBonnie & Clyde directed by Arthur PennDjango Unchained directed by Quentin TarantinoThe Harder They Come directed by Perry HenzellFive Fingers for Marseilles directed by Michael MatthewsThe Homesteader directed by Oscar Micheaux and Jerry MillsSwingtime directed by George StevensA Raisin in the Sun directed by Daniel PetrieHorror Noire: A History of Black Horror directed by Robin Givens, Kimani Ray Smith, Rob J. Greenlea, Director X., Zandashé Brown, and Joe WestCheck out Wikipedia for more information about the Lobo Comics mentioned in the interview.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my recap of everything from the second Academy Awards back in 1930. I run through all the nominees and winners of every category and give a final ranking of all 19 films I was able to watch from this year of the Oscars. If you missed any of the episodes discussing specific films, you can go back in this feed or just tap on the links below.3.28-The Return of the Oscars and Lost Nominees of 1928-1929 with Lewis Beer3.30-Street Angel & Skyscraper with Beth Lisogorsky3.32-Glorious Betsy with Enrico Banson3.34-Our Dancing Daughters with Vicki Lesley3.36-White Shadows in the South Seas with Matthew Brady3.38-A Woman of Affairs with Amanda Kusek3.40-In Old Arizona with Joanne Thornborough3.42-The Broadway Melody with Kevin Pettit3.44-Weary River with Jonathan Hammond3.46-The Leatherneck with Gareth Bradwick3.48-The Divine Lady with Janelle Miley3.50-Coquette with Maria Banson3.52-The Letter with Lewis Beer3.54-Alibi with Jeff Kramer3.56-The Valiant with Matthew Carlson3.58-The Hollywood Revue of 1929 with Chris Mann3.60-Thunderbolt with Jake Myshrall3.62-The Last of Mrs. Cheyney with Shawna Carroll3.64-Madame X with Dan Pal3.66-Dynamite with Murray MintzI have a special episode planned for next Friday and then the following week we jump right in with a preview of the 3rd Academy Awards.And if you want to be a guest for an upcoming episode of the podcast and help me discuss a future Oscar nominated film, send me a message replying to this episode and let me know you're interested. I would love to add your voice to my stellar list of guests for the show.Support the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Dylan Trupiano, director of the new short film "Recesses," a poignant reflection on hidden childhood trauma and education system.Listen to hear about the inspiration for the story in his own childhood experience with a teacher for a parent, the nature of childhood memories versus adult memories, and the difficulties of figuring out how to tackle such a serious topic with the right young actor for the film.Books mentioned in this episode include:2666 by Roberto BolañoGilead by Marilynne RobinsonJohn by Annie BakerFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Recesses" directed by Dylan TrupianoRatcatcher directed by Lynne RamsayCertain Women directed by Kelly ReichardtLa ciénaga directed by Lucrecia MartelNo Country for Old Men directed by Joel and Ethan CoenFallen Angels directed by Wong Kar-WaiEddington directed by Ari AsterFollow Dylan on Instagram @dylantrupiano and the film @recessesfilm.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Dyamite. I'm joined by Murray Mintz from the "CineVibez Fanzine" newsletter and we talk about what the going rate for "buying a husband" was in 1929, some wonderful twists and turns throughout the plot, and innovative uses of sound in director Cecil B. DeMille's first fully sound feature. You can watch Dynamite on YouTube and be sure to check out Murray's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Babylon directed by Damien ChazelleThe Shawshank Redemption directed by Frank DarabontBeauty and the Beast directed by Kirk Wise and Gary TrousdaleThe Ten Commandments directed by Cecil B. DeMilleSunset Boulevard directed by Billy WilderHold Back the Dawn directed by Mitchell LeisenJohn Wick directed by Chad StahelskiGlorious Betsy directed by Alan Crosland and Gordon HollingsheadThe Hollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerThe Ten Commandments (1923 silent version) directed by Cecil B. DeMilleThe Bridge of San Luis Rey (lost film) directed by Charles BrabinThe Substance directed by Coralie FargeatOther referenced topics:The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldMovieDiva article about the sound innovations produced for this filmLA Times reviewSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Meron Alon, director of the new short film "Too Good," a humorous take on what happens when we die and meet God at the gates to heaven.Listen to hear about the process of casting the two stars of the film, some unconventional questions that God asks at the gates of heaven, and one of the best character names I think I've heard in a long time.Books mentioned in this episode include:All Fours by Miranda JulyFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Too Good" directed by Meron AlonThe Matrix directed by Lana and Lilly WachowskiThe Talented Mr. Ripley directed by Anthony MinghellaCloser directed by Mike NicholsAlmost Famous directed by Cameron CroweCall Me by Your Name directed by Luca Guadagnino10 Things I Hate About You directed by Gil JungerFollow Meron on Instagram @meronalon.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Madame X. I'm joined by Dan Pal from the "PalCinema, Television, & Music" newsletter and we talk about the theme of forgiveness which appears in the film, director Lionel Barrymore's conscious decision to limit the amount of music in the film, and whether the story  might have worked better as the original stage production. You can watch Madame X on YouTube and be sure to check out Dan's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Madame X (1937) directed by Sam WoodThe Broadway Melody directed by Harry BeaumontThe Hollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerMadame X (1966) directed by David Lowell RichMadame X (2021) directed by Ricardo Gomes, Nuno Xico, and Sasha KasiuhaThe Wizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingThe Jazz Singer directed by Alan CroslandThe Patriot directed by Ernst Lubitsch (lost film)It's a Wonderful Life directed by Frank CapraDr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde directed by Rouben MamoulianThe Divine Lady directed by Frank LloydCoquette directed by Sam TaylorApocalypse Now directed by Francis Ford CoppolaOther referenced topics:Madame X (play) by Alexandre BissonMadame X (album) by MadonnaThe Dark Side of the Moon (album) buy Pink FloydVariety reviewHartford Courant review"Too Much Padding Spoils the Fun" by Mordaunt Hall in the New York TimesHeart of Darkness (novel) by Joseph ConradSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Hannah Rose Ammon, director of the new short film "We Do Our Best," a tender, true-to-life portrait of motherhood, girlhood and growing up in New York.Listen to hear about the real life event that inspired the film, what it was like filming in a small bar environment in New York City, and the importance of music in telling a story like this.Books mentioned in this episode include:Just Kids by Patti SmithFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"We Do Our Best" directed by Hannah Rose AmmonMoonstruck directed by Norman JewisonEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind directed by Michel GondryThe Virgin Suicides directed by Sofia CoppolaBreakfast at Tiffany's directed by Blake EdwardsSchool of Rock directed by Richard LinklaterNotting Hill directed by Roger MichellFollow Hannah on Instagram @hannah.rose.a and the film @wdobfilm.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film The Last of Mrs. Cheyney. I'm joined by Shawna Carroll from the "Notes From Post" newsletter and we talk about some interesting visual choices from the director and cinematographer throughout the film, incredible costumes (especially on Norma Shearer's Fay Cheyney), and how the plot of the film doesn't quite land in the third act. You can watch The Last of Mrs. Cheyney on YouTube and be sure to check out Shawna's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:Who's the Boss? (series)Charlie and the Chocolate Factory directed by Tim BurtonA League of Their Own directed by Penny MarshallThe Patriot (lost) directed by Ernst LubitschThe Last of Mrs. Cheyney (1937) directed by Richard Boleslawski, George Fitzmaurice and Dorothy ArznerThe Law and the Lady directed by Edwin H. KnopfCamille directed by George CukorMrs. Miniver directed by William WylerThe Divorcee directed by Robert Z. LeonardDracula directed by Tod BrowningSkyscraper directed by Howard HigginThe Leatherneck directed by Howard HigginOther referenced topics:The Last of Mrs. Cheyney (play) by Frederick Lonsdale (read for free online at fadedpage.com)"The first Oscars lasted 15 minutes — plus other surprises from 95 years of awards" by Mandalit del Barco from NPRThe Maid of the Mountains (play) by Frederick LonsdaleDracula (play) by Hamilton Deane and John L. BalderstonNew York Times reviewLos Angeles Times reviewJackson Upperco on That's Entertainment!Support the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Aizzah Fatima, writer, producer, and star of the feature film Americanish, a look at several young Pakistani-American women living in Queens as they chase their American dreams.Listen to hear about the roots of the story in Aizzah's one woman show she was performing in New York, the importance of portraying young Muslim women with agency and abilities on screen, and what went into building an ensemble cast for the film.Books mentioned in this episode include:Dirty Paki Lingerie by Aizzah FatimaYou Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen SinceroThe Dancing Girls of Lahore: Selling Love and Saving Dreams in Pakistan's Pleasure District by Louise BrownHigh Fidelity by Nick HornbyFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:Americanish directed by Iman ZawahryMuslim Girls DTF Discuss Their Faith (series)Law & Order (series)Reasonable Doubt (series)New Amsterdam (series)Blue Bloods (series)High Maintenance (series)The Code (series)Mr. Robot (series)The Good Wife (series)Cheers (series)Ms. Marvel (series)Past Lives directed by Celine SongJoyland directed by Saim SadiqThe Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaMrs. Doubtfire directed by Chris ColumbusLove Actually directed by Richard CurtisHigh Fidelity directed by Stephen FrearsFollow Aizzah on Instagram @aizzahfatima and the film @americanishfilm.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film Thunderbolt. I'm joined by Jake Myshrall from the "Film Runner" newsletter and we talk about the innovative ways von Sternberg used sound even in this early sound film, the prevalence of gallows humor throughout the second half of the film, and how various actors are adjusting to the use of sound in film. You can watch Thunderbolt on YouTube and be sure to check out Jake's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Hollywood Revue of 1929 directed by Charles F. ReisnerUnderworld directed by Joseph von SternbergThe Last Command directed by Joseph von SternbergCitizen Kane directed by Orson WellesWizard of Oz directed by Victor FlemingMank directed by David FincherStagecoach directed by John FordKing Kong directed by Merian CooperTitanic directed by James CameronWings directed by William A. WellmanIntolerance directed by D. W. GriffithThe Jazz Singer directed by Alan Crosland"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" (1910 short) directed by Otis TurnerThe Valiant directed by William K. HowardGone with the Wind directed by Victor FlemingCoquette directed by Sam TaylorThe Godfather directed by Francis Ford CoppolaIn Old Arizona directed by Raoul WalshThe Patriot directed by Ernst Lubitsch (lost film)Alibi directed by Roland WestOther referenced topics:Mankiewicz family tree on WikipediaNew York Times reviewLos Angeles Times reviewCineaste Magazine review by Catherine RussellSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Frank Sun, whose latest film "We Are Kings" premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival earlier this year and will be playing at the 2025 HollyShorts Film Festival this August.Listen to hear about how Frank's immigrant background informed the way he looked at the world even from a young age, the benefit of discovering his characters through a feature length version of the script, and how Frank's own mother supported him in achieving his dreams.Books mentioned in this episode include:Exhalation by Ted ChiangIn Cold Blood by Truman CapoteThe Courage to Be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon That Shows You How to Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness by Ichiro KishimiFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"We Are Kings" directed by Frank SunSurvivor (series)To Live directed by Zhang YimouWhiplash directed by Damien ChazelleDumb and Dumber directed by Peter FarrellyThe Wrestler directed by Darren AronofskyArrival directed by Denis VilleneuveBack to the Future directed by Robert Zemeckis"Fabric" directed by Frank Sun (forthcoming)Follow Frank on Instagram @xfranksun and the film @wearekingsfilm.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film The Hollywood Revue of 1929. I'm joined by Chris Mann from the "Daily Movie Question" newsletter and we talk about how the film truly feels like watching a stage revue like those that were popular at the time, some interesting visual effects that the film employed at various points, and the propensity for women to be physically carried off stage by a group of several men throughout the film. You can watch The Hollywood Revue of 1929 on YouTube and be sure to check out Chris's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:"The Karnival Kid" directed by Ub Iwerks and Walt DisneyFerris Bueller's Day Off directed by John HughesStar Wars TrilogyThe Broadway Melody directed by Harry BeaumontPinocchio directed by Ben Sharpsteen and Hamilton LuskeStan and Ollie directed by Jon BairdIt's a Wonderful Life directed by Frank CapraOther referenced topics:Smoot–Hawley Tariff ActRalph McQuarrie artwork from The Empire Strikes Back"Smooth Criminal" by Michael Jackson"We Are the World" by U.S.A. For AfricaNew York Times reviewVariety reviewFilm Daily reviewThe New Yorker reviewSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Nicola Rose, whose latest film Magnetosphere is playing at ComicCon and the San Diego Children's Film Festival this summer.Listen to hear about the challenges of bringing a character with synesthesia to the screen in a realistic way, realizing that life is a combination of funny moments and emotionally challenging moments, and the experience of working with a young cast that felt like they all naturally belonged together.Books mentioned in this episode include:I'm the One That I Want by Margaret ChoSure, I'll Join Your Cult: A Memoir of Mental Illness and the Quest to Belong Anywhere by Maria BamfordBorgel by Daniel PinkwaterFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:Magnetosphere directed by Nicola RoseGoodbye, Petrushka directed by Nicola RoseCODA directed by Siân HederMatilda directed by Danny DeVitoMonty Python's Flying Circus (series)The Pirates of Penzance directed by Wilford LeachMoonrise Kingdom directed by Wes AndersonAmélie directed by Jean-Pierre JeunetThe Double Life of Veronique directed by Krzysztof KieslowskiAuntie Mame directed by Morton DaCostaThe Addams Family directed by Barry SonnenfeldOther works mentioned:The Mikado by Arthur Sullivan and W. S. Gilbert (musical)The Pirates of Penzance by Arthur Sullivan and W. S. Gilbert (musical)Oklahoma! by Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein (musical)Follow the film on Instagram @magnetospheremovie and Nicola @nicolarosedirects and check out Nicola's Substack. If you've seen the film, Nicola would love for you to leave a review on IMDb and Letterboxd.Support the show

Send us a textToday's episode is my conversation about the 1929 film The Valiant. I'm joined by Matthew Carlson from the "What Am I Making" newsletter and we talk about an unexpected prison jazz band, how the limitations of the film technology of the time impacted how stories were told on film, and how a very short play was adapted into a substantially longer film for this story.You can watch The Valiant on YouTube and be sure to check out Matthew's newsletter.Other films mentioned in this episode include:The Cocoanuts directed by Joseph Santley and Robert FloreyUnaccustomed As We Are directed by Lewis R. Foster and Hal RoachThe Blue Angel directed by Josef von SternbergThe Way of All Flesh directed by Victor Fleming (lost film)Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood directed by Quentin TarantinoThere Will Be Blood directed by Paul Thomas AndersonThe Last Command directed by Josef von SternbergInherit the Wind directed by Stanley KramerJudgment at Nuremberg directed by Stanley KramerScarface directed by Howard Hawks"The Only Girl in the Orchestra" directed by Molly O'BrienThe Man Who Wouldn't Talk directed by David Burton"The Arrival of a Train" directed by Auguste and Louis Lumière"Workers Leaving The Lumiere Factory" directed by Auguste and Louis LumièreThe Birth of a Nation directed by D. W. GriffithIn Old Arizona directed by Irving Cummings and Raoul WalshThe Passion of Joan of Arc directed by Carl Th. DreyerPickpocket directed by Robert BressonOther referenced topics:The Valiant (play) by Holworthy Hall and Robert MiddlemassSupport the show

Send us a textIn today's episode, I interview Amalie Atkins, whose film Agatha's Almanac is playing at the Galway Film Fleadh this July.Listen to hear about the force that Amalie's aunt Agatha was in her life, the importance of being present in one's life, and the inherent challenges of shooting on film, especially when some of your film goes missing.Books mentioned in this episode include:Fight Night by Miriam ToewsBeauty: The Invisible Embrace by John O'DonohueThe Garden Against Time: In Search of a Common Paradise by Olivia LaingFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:Agatha's Almanac directed by Amalie AtkinsGlide of Transparency directed by Betzy BrombergDaisies directed by Věra ChytilováWomen Without Men directed by Shirin Neshat and Shoja AzariL'Iceberg directed by Dominique Abel , Bruno Romy and Fiona GordonWool 100% directed by Mai TominagaThe Red Balloon directed by Albert LamorisseFollow the film on Instagram @agathasalmanac and check out Amalie's website amalieatkins.ca.Check out music from the artists whose work appears in the film including Castle If, Green-House, and Katarina Gryvul.Support the show