Podcasts about front row classics

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome Vanessa O'Neil to the podcast. Vanessa is the granddaughter of Judy Garland and daughter of, recent podcast guest, Lorna Luft. Brandon and Vanessa discuss what it means to carry the Garland Legacy and how she recently decided to pick up the mantle. The two also chat about what it means to be the descendant of a legendary family member.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most celebrated biopics in history. Brandon is, once again, joined by Peter Martin to discuss 1980's Coal Miner's Daughter. We discuss the Oscar winning performance of Sissy Spacek at the legendary Loretta Lynn. Brandon and Peter also pay tribute to the performances by Tommy Lee Jones and Beverly D'Angelo. The discussion also turns to the amazing direction by Michael Apted who keeps the film unpretentious and appealing to even non-country music fans.

Front Row Classics is celebrating its 10th anniversary this week and we're celebrating with a series of special episodes. Today, Brandon is chatting with two very special guests. We welcome the wonderful Lorna Luft and, friend of the podcast, James Duke Mason.  Lorna and Duke chat with Brandon about 1954's A Star is Born. We discuss the legendary performances of Judy Garland (Lorna's mother) and James Mason (Duke's grandfather). The three chat about the inception, production and aftermath of the film as well as the impact it still has on our popular culture.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most popular films in the catalog of Douglas Sirk. Brandon and Emmett Stanton discuss 1956's Written on the Wind. The hosts celebrate Sirk's signature style and melodramatic tone that permeate through all his films. The two also discuss the star studded cast including Rock Hudson, Lauren Bacall, Robert Stack and an Oscar-winning performance by Dorothy Malone. We also make the connections between films like this and the modern American soap opera. 

Front Row Classics welcomes back our friends from Sweet Tea and TV to take a look at another movie with a southern flavor. Brandon welcomes back Nikki and Salina to take a look at 1938's Jezebel. The three discuss the Oscar-winning performance from Bette Davis and why it remains one of the standouts of her career. We also discuss the direction of William Wyler as well as the portrayal of the South throughout the movie.

Front Row Classics is taking a splash this summer with Esther Williams. Brandon and Ben Burke are chatting about 1953's Dangerous When Wet. The two discuss Williams' underrated talents as well as the prolific career of director, Charles Walters. The talents of Fernando Lamas, William Demarest, Jack Carson and Charlotte Greenwood are honored. Brandon and Ben also spend time discussing the legendary underwater sequence featuring Tom and Jerry.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at a not-so-great movie that has earned a cult status over the decades. Brandon welcomes Nigel Speed and Kevin McLain to discuss 1967's Valley of the Dolls. We talk about the camp legacy the movie has left behind along with the devoted following from the gay community. The three talk about the stand out moments and performances as well as behind the scenes trivia. 

NEELY O’ HARA!!! Front Row Classics is taking a look at a not-so-great movie that has earned a cult status over the decades. Brandon welcomes Nigel Speed and Kevin McLain to discuss 1967’s Valley of the Dolls. We talk about the camp legacy the movie has left behind along with the devoted following from the … Continue reading Ep. 317- Valley of the Dolls →

Front Row Classics welcomes back historian and freelance writer, Holley Snaith. Holley recently contributed two articles for PBS' American Masters documentary, "Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story. Brandon and Holley discuss the highlights of the documentary as well as their own thoughts of Liza career, especially her career in film.    

Front Row Classics welcomes Pat Gallagher to celebrate Judy Garland on her 103rd birthday today! Pat is the "man behind the curtain" of The Judy Garland Archive on Instagram. He has earned a loyal following through his thought curation of Garland's life and career. Brandon and Pat discuss their mutual admiration for Garland's talent and Pat's origins as a Garland/Oz fan. We also discuss the events/opportunities that Pat's efforts have allowed him to be part of.  You can find Pat on Instagram at @judygarlandarchives.

Happy Birthday Judy! Front Row Classics welcomes Pat Gallagher to celebrate Judy Garland on her 103rd birthday today! Pat is the “man behind the curtain” of The Judy Garland Archive on Instagram. He has earned a loyal following through his thought curation of Garland’s life and career. Brandon and Pat discuss their mutual admiration for … Continue reading Ep. 315- Celebrating Judy Garland with Pat Gallagher →

Front Row Classics welcomes back Turner Classic Movies host, Alicia Malone. Alicia recently penned "TCM Imports: Timeless Favorites and Hidden Gems of World Cinema". Brandon and Alicia discuss the origins of the book along with her passion for international cinema. The two also discuss the wide variety of genres covered in the book. "TCM Imports: Timeless Favorites and Hidden Gems of World Cinema" is available from Running Press and Turner Classic Movies wherever books are sold. Alicia Malone is a host on Turner Classic Movies and the host of TCM Imports, showcasing cinematic treasures from around the world. Malone is an authority on classic, independent, and foreign films, and is passionate about supporting women in film. She has given two TEDx talks on the accomplishments and obstacles women have faced throughout cinema's history. Malone began her television career in her native Australia, working behind the scenes. Her expertise in film led to her transition as a host, interviewer, and film critic for television, radio, print, and online. She has appeared as a film expert on a variety of TV channels and programs, including CNN's The Movies documentary series, MSNBC, Access Hollywood, E!, Entertainment Tonight, MTV, and ABC.    

Front Row Classics welcomes author, Christopher McKittrick, to celebrate Vera Miles. Chris recently penned a book called "Vera Miles: The Hitchcock Blonde Who Got Away". Brandon and Chris discuss how Miles' shaped her life & career on her own terms. We also discuss her relationship with Alfred Hitchcock while making films like "Psycho" and "The Wrong Man".  "Vera Miles: The Hitchcock Blonde Who Got Away" is available from University Press of Kentucky wherever books are sold.  Christopher McKittrick is the author of Gimme All Your Lovin': The Blues, Boogie, and Beard of ZZ Top's Billy F. Gibbons, Somewhere You Feel Free: Tom Petty and Los Angeles, and Can't Give It Away on Seventh Avenue: The Rolling Stonesand New York City. His work has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, USA TODAY, and more. McKittrick is also a regular contributor on podcasts and radio programs concerning film, music, and pop culture.  

Front Row Classics is celebrating the centennial of the great Robert Altman with one of this true masterpieces. Brandon and Emmett Stanton are taking a look at 1975's Nashville. We discuss the legendary ensemble cast featuring the likes of Lily Tomlin, Henry Gibson, Ned Beatty, Keith Carradine, Shelley Duvall, Ronee Blakley and Geraldine Chaplin. The hosts discuss the multiple meanings behind the film and how it resonated in a post-Watergate America. 

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back George Stevens Jr to the podcast. George was this year's recipient of the Robert Osborne Award at the Turner Classic Movies Film Festival. Brandon and George discuss the award as well as the restoration of "Talk of the Town" and his documentary, "George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey". 

George Stevens Jr. Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back George Stevens Jr to the podcast. George was this year’s recipient of the Robert Osborne Award at the Turner Classic Movies Film Festival. Brandon and George discuss the award as well as the restoration of “Talk of the Town” and his documentary, “George Stevens: … Continue reading Ep. 311-TCM Film Festival-Conversation with George Stevens Jr. →

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most popular courtroom mysteries ever made. Brandon is joined by friend of the podcast, Matt Duffy, to celebrate Billy Wilder's Witness for the Prosecution. Brandon and Matt celebrate the wit, drama and humor of this movies based on a play by Agatha Christie. The standout performances of Charles Laughton and Marlene Dietrich are especially praised.

Front Row Classics is proud to welcome Russ Tamblyn to the podcast! Brandon and Russ sit down to discuss several of the stories found in Russ' memoir "Dancing on the Edge: A Journey of Living, Loving, and Tumbling Through Hollywood." The two discuss his memories of films like Father of the Bride, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, West Side Story and The Haunting.  RUSS TAMBLYN, is an Academy Award-nominated actor, dancer, choreographer, director, and artist best known as Riff in the iconic 1961 film West Side Story and Dr. Jacoby in David Lynch's cult-classic television show, Twin Peaks, as well as for his contribution to the art, music, and counterculture movements of the 1960s. His eight-millimeter films and collage-and-assemblage art have appeared in numerous exhibitions, including at the Los Angeles Institute of Contemporary Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Getty. He lives in Los Angeles.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at the only Best Picture winning film from Alfred Hitchcock's canon. Brandon is joined by Peter Martin to discuss 1940's Rebecca. The film remains a favorite due to its gothic atmosphere and stellar performances. Brandon and Peter discuss the similarities and differences from Daphne du Maurier's novel along with the battle of wills between Hitchcock and producer David O. Selznick. The two also praise the performances of Laurence Olivier, Joan Fontaine and Judith Anderson.

Front Row Classics welcomes Alicia Mayer to the podcast this week! Alicia's family history is rooted in the Golden Age of Hollywood. She is the grand niece of Louis B Mayer and granddaughter of Ida Mayer Cummings. Brandon and Alicia discuss the history of the Mayer family and their immigration to America. The conversation also turns to Ida's involvement in causes devoted to Los Angeles' Jewish community. They also discuss how she began researching her family tree and developed her website, HollywoodEssays.com.

Front Row Classics is celebrating the ever-eduring star power of Cary Grant! We're trying out something different in this episode and hope you'll like it. Brandon is joined by actor, writer and social media curator, Cassidy Krygger. Cassidy and Brandon will be counting down their personal top 5 favorite Cary Grant performances. Let us know your thoughts after listening to the episode! You can find Cassiday @hollywoodlandphots on Instagram and at https://linktr.ee/hollywoodlandphotos1  

Front Row Classics welcomes back, friend of the podcast, Jessica Pickens to celebrate one of our favorite genres. Brandon and Jessica are celebrating movies musicals. In this episode, we are sampling four favorites from the thirties through the fifties. We're taking a look at Footlight Parade (1933), Moon Over Miami (1941), Bathing Beauty (1944) and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954). Brandon and Jessica discuss the evolution of musicals and how different sub-genres occurred during the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most celebrated adventure films of all time. Brandon is joined by author & historian John DiLeo to discuss 1937's Captain Courageous. Victor Fleming's adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's novel still tugs are the heartstrings. Brandon and John celebrate the amazing performance of Freddie Bartholomew as Harvey along with a top supporting cast including Lionel Barrymore, Mickey Rooney and Melvyn Douglas. The two also discuss the much-debated Oscar-winning performance of Spencer Tracy as Manuel. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating one of the most popular romances in film history. Brandon welcomes Daveyanna Garcia to take a look at 1957's An Affair to Remember. The two discuss many of the memorable moments between stars Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr. We also discuss the connections between the original 1939 film Love Affair also directed Leo McCarey.

Bernice Clifton has given us so much over the years. Her final parting gift? A reference to the iconic 1991 film: Thelma & Louise. It's a shoot ‘em up, outlaw adventure featuring two outrageously talented women amidst a banger cast. It's a bittersweet feminist text that shook up Hollywood stereotypes – and forever upholds the unshakable bond of female friendship.  Brandon Davis from Front Row Classics returned to help us unpack this one: what it changed, what it didn't, allll the trivia, and why this one holds a special place in our hearts - whether this was our first or 100th time seeing it.

Front Row Classics is celebrating its 300th episode with one of the most celebrated film authors working today. Brandon is thrilled to welcome historian, author & publisher, Sam Wasson. We discuss Sam's origins as a film fan and what inspired him to write about film. We also discuss his two latest books, "The Big Goodbye" and "The Path to Paradise". This discussion also leads Brandon and Sam to chat about the current and future state of movies.  

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back Czar of Noir himself Eddie Muller. Brandon and Eddie chat about the newly revised and expanded edition of "Dark City Dames: The Women Who Defined Film Noir". The book chronicles Eddie's interviews with 6 of noir's greatest 'dames': Audrey Totter, Marie Windsor, Evelyn Keyes, Jane Greer, Ann Savage and Coleen Gray. The revelations they shared with Eddie are often humorous and poignant. Eddie shares his memories of each actress with Brandon and highlights several other women spotlighted in the expanded section. "Dark City Dames: The Women Who Defined Film Noir" is available from Turner Classic Movies and Running Press wherever books are sold. Eddie Muller, aka the “Czar of Noir,” is the host of Turner Classic Movies' Noir Alley. He is also the prolific author of novels, biographies, plays, films, and movie histories, including Dark City: Revised and Expanded Edition, the essential cocktail manual Eddie Muller's Noir Bar, and the children's book Kid Noir. He also programs and hosts the Noir City film festival series, curates museums, and provides commentary for television, radio, and DVDs. As founder of the Film Noir Foundation, Muller has been instrumental in restoring and preserving dozens of lost noir classics. He resides in the San Francisco Bay Area in California.  

Front Row Classics welcomes Spring with one of the most charming romantic comedies of the 1950s. Brandon and Emmett Stanton are discussing George Cukor's It Should Happen to You from 1954. The film features one of the best film performances from the effervescent Judy Holliday. We also celebrate the 100th birthday of Jack Lemmon by commemorating his movie debut in this film. Brandon and Emmett discuss the many funny & charming scenes as well as reflect on how the film still seems relevant in our current culture of social media influencers. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 100th birthday of Robert Altman by taking a look at one of his greatest works. Brandon is joined by Spencer Davis to discuss 1971's McCabe and Mrs, Miller. Brandon and Spencer discuss this classic anti-Western which features stellar performances from Warren Beatty and Julie Christie. The hosts also discuss the spectacular screenplay by Altman and Brian McKay as well as the tone-setting songs by Leonard Cohen.

MAIN STREET MEN REWIND:Brandon Davis from Front Row Classics joins me to talk about our favorite Live Action Disney Films!Episode 154:Live Action Disney Films with Brandon Davis(ORIGINAL AIRDATE: January 9)Listen here:https://linktr.ee/ofmiceandmainstreetmenCheck out links to the shop and travel agency:OfMiceAndMainStreetMen.comShare this episode with your friends and help us spread the gospel of Of Mice & Main Street Men! Happy listening!Sean and I will reunite next week! Cheers!Tristan #disneypodcast #waltdisneyworld #disneypodcasters #waltdisney #marcelinemissouri #disneyfans #tagtheqc

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome actress & filmmaker Illeana Douglas to the show. Brandon and Illeana discuss her love of the movies which led to her becoming a professional in the business. Her love of the movies has led her to many exciting projects including her recent book, "Connecticut in the Movies". We talk about her love of the state of Connecticut and its complicated history. We also spend time discussing her grandfather, the legendary Melvyn Douglas. Illeana Douglas has starred in films like Cape Fear, To Die For, Grace of My Heart, and Ghost World, as well as in TV shows like Goliath, Shrill, Entourage, and Six Feet Under. Douglas is the granddaughter of two-time Academy Award–winning actor Melvyn Douglas. A classic film lover, she hosted Trailblazing Woman for Turner Classic Movies and participated in many film documentaries, including CNN: The Movies and Kino Lorber's Pioneers: First Women Filmmakers, which she also executive produced and hosted. Her first book, I Blame Dennis Hopper: And Other Stories from a Life Lived In and Out of the Movies was named Best Pop Culture book of the year in 2015 by Entertainment Weekly.  

Front Row Classics welcomes author Mayukh Sen to celebrate the life of Merle Oberon. Mayukh recently penned "Love, Queenie: Merle Oberon, Hollywood's First South Asian Star". The book captures the complicated life of Oberon while also providing a picture of the political atmosphere of the first half of the 20th century. Brandon and Mayukhk discuss the origins and research process of the book as well as some of the high points of Oberon's life. "Love, Queenie: Merle Oberon, Hollywood's First South Asian Star" is available from W. W. Norton & Company wherever books are sold. Mayukh Sen is the James Beard Award-winning author of Taste Makers. He is a 2025 Fellow at New America, and has written on film for the New Yorker, the Atlantic, and the Criterion Collection. He teaches journalism at New York University and lives in Brooklyn, New York.    

Front Row Classics is taking a look at an unsung western classic from 1946. Brandon is joined by film historian & producer Daniel Marino to discuss Canyon Passage. The film, directed by Jacques Tourneur, embodies the post-war feelings of American in the forties. It features stunning Technicolor cinematography and an unlikely Oscar nominated song by Hoagy Carmichael. The film also benefits from a strong cast featuring Dana Andrews, Susan Hayward, Brian Donlevy, Ward Bond and Lloyd Bridges.

Front Row Classics is excited to welcome back James Duke Mason this week. Brandon and Duke catch up on everything happening in the last year. They also touch on some of Duke's grandfather's (James Mason) best performances. The discussion turns to films like A Star is Born, The Last of Sheila, Lolita and Heaven Can Wait. We also preview Duke's participation in MTV's Family Legacy where he pays tribute to the legacy of his mother, Belinda Carlisle. The episode drops on Paramount Plus this Tuesday, March 25th.

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome author & entertainment journalist Maureen Lee Lenker. Brandon and Maureen discuss her origins as a classic film fan favorite film genres and most memorable writing assignments. The conversation, then, turns to her latest book, "His Girl Hollywood", an historical fiction romance set in Classic Hollywood. Maureen Lee Lenker is an award-winning journalist who has written for Turner Classic Movies, The Hollywood Reporter, Ms. Magazine, and more. She is a Senior Writer for Entertainment Weekly, where she maintains a quarterly romance review column, Hot Stuff, in addition to covering film, TV, and theater. She is a proud graduate of both the University of Southern California and the University of Oxford. Maureen calls Los Angeles home, where you'll either find her at the beach or in a repertory movie-house, if she's not writing.

"Garbo Talks!". Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of most promoted events in film history. Brandon is joined by Peter Martin to break down 1930's Anna Christie. The two discuss Clarence Brown's adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's Pulitzer Prize winning play. This early talkie helped to cement Greta Garbo as a screen icon. Brandon and Peter also discuss the scene-stealing performance from Marie Dressler.

Garbo Talks! “Garbo Talks!”. Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of most promoted events in film history. Brandon is joined by Peter Martin to break down 1930’s Anna Christie. The two discuss Clarence Brown’s adaptation of Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize winning play. This early talkie helped to cement Greta Garbo as a … Continue reading Ep. 291- Anna Christie →

Front Row Classics is taking a look at an underrated comedy gem in the career of Lucille Ball. Brandon welcomes back Sarah Royal, author of "AKA Lucy", to take a look at Miss Grant Takes Richmond from 1949. This film came two years before Lucy reached superstardom on "I Love Lucy". Yet, the film shows seeds of the birth of Lucy Ricardo. The movie also features a wonderful performance from William Holden right before his career took off with Sunset Blvd.

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome author, professor & historian Noah Isenberg. Noah penned one of Brandon's favorite film books, "We'll Always Have Casablanca: The Life, Legend, and Afterlife of Hollywood's Most Beloved Movie". Brandon and Noah discuss their initial discovery of the film as well as their favorite moments. The legacy, afterlife and themes are also explored.   Film historian Noah Isenberg holds the Charles Sapp Centennial Professorship at the University of Texas at Austin, where for close to half a decade he served as Chair of the Department of Radio-Television-Film. Currently, he serves as Executive Director of the University of Texas's two study-away programs in Los Angeles (UTLA) and in New York City (UTNY), where he is based

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of Alfred Hitchcock's most underrated classics. Brandon is joined by Emily Nesbitt to talk 1954's Dial M for Murder. The hosts discuss Hitchcock's unique storytelling and camera work. The performances of Ray Milland, Grace Kelly, Bob Cummings & John Williams are also celebrated. 

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome Turner Classic Movies host Jacqueline Stewart. Brandon and Jacqueline discuss her career in film scholarship and origins as a film fan. The two also discuss her passion for African American film history and silent film. The conversation, then, turns to TCM's 31 Days of Oscar. Brandon receives Jacqueline's thoughts on 4 of the films featured this month: In the Heat of the Night, Cabin in the Sky, Sounder and All About Eve.  

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of Hollywood's most famous gangster films. 1931's The Public Enemy set the stage for so many films that followed. Brandon is joined by writer, Sophia D'Aurelio to break down the movie. Sophia is versed in many areas of classic film, especially topics involving pre-code films and Jean Harlow. Brandon and Sophia discuss Harlow's early performance alongside a career defining performance from James Cagney. The hosts also pay tribute to director, William Wellman.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most cynically biting films ever made. Brandon is happy to welcome back  author/historian Chris Yogerst to take a look at Billy Wilder's Ace in the Hole.  This 1951 film is one of the most audacious films in Wilder's canon. Brandon and Chris pay tribute to the amazing performance by Kirk Douglas in one of his signature roles. We also discuss the real life events that inspired this satirical look at journalism and media.

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 90th birthday of Elvis Presley with one of his most popular movies. Brandon welcomes back Tristan Tapscott to chat about 1961's Blue Hawaii. Elvis was at the peak of popularity and magnetism when he made this escapist musical romp. Brandon and Tristan discuss the many colorful locations and musical numbers that populate the film. We also highlight the wonderful supporting cast including Joan Blackman, Roland Winters, Howard McNear and a scene-stealing Angela Lansbury as Elvis' mother.

Front Row Classics is celebrating an audacious and vastly underrated thriller from Warner Bros. Brandon is pleased to welcome back Holley Snaith to discuss Storm Warning from 1950. This noir thriller was an allegory for the politically charged era of the Red Scare in Hollywood. Brandon and Holley discuss Richard Brooks' and Daniel Fuchs' screenplay that was ahead of its time in its indictment of the KKK. The film also features an unlikely cast that includes Ginger Rogers, Doris Day and Ronald Reagan. 

Front Row Classics welcomes content creator John Joseph to the show. John Joseph has a series of classic Hollywood related videos and posts through his various social media platforms. He and Brandon discuss the origins of their classic film fandom, favorite films and the studio system. The conversation, then, moves to the career of Debbie Reynolds and. specifically, The Tender Trap. You can find John Joseph's various content at https://linktr.ee/itsjohnjoseph

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 100th anniversary of another landmark silent film. We're joined by our friend Emmett Stanton to look at 1925's The Big Parade. The movie marked one of Hollywood's initial statements about war. Brandon and Emmett celebrate the performances of John Gilbert and Renee Adoree as well as the timeless direction of King Vidor. Vidor's direction creates many moments just as harrowing today as they were a century ago.

Front Row Classics is celebrating the centennial of one of Charlie Chaplin's most beloved films. Brandon is joined by Peter Martin to take a look at 1925's The Gold Rush. The hosts discuss their favorite moments from this landmark achievement that still entertains 100 years later. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the greatest achievements from one of cinema's true geniuses. Brandon welcomes Robert Bellissimo to celebrate Orson Welles' The Magnificent Ambersons. Robert is the host of his own video podcast called "Robert Bellissimo At the Movies". Brandon and Robert discuss how the film how this truncated masterpiece remains one of Welles' greatest films. This follow-up to Citizen Kane features stellar performances from Joseph Cotten, Tim Holt, Anne Baxter and especially Agnes Moorehead. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look one of the most popular love stories from the late 1950s. Brandon is joined by film historian & author Sloan De Forest to take a look at 1959's A Summer Place. The two discuss the origins of the film and how it pushed the envelope with it's coming-of-age themes. Brandon and Sloan also discuss how the film walks the line between serious drama and campy time capsule. We also take some time to highlight the iconic "Theme from a Summer Place" by Max Steiner.