Podcasts about front row classics

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 100th birthday of Marilyn Monroe with several special guests over the next couple days. Brandon, firstly, welcomes Caroline Barris. Caroline is the daughter of legendary photographer, George Barris. Brandon and Caroline discuss her father's deep friendship with Marilyn and how his photographs were some of the most personal ever taken of the icon. They also discuss Marilyn's legacy a century after her birth. You can visit www.inhollywoodland.com to see the current work of the George Barris Estate. You can also find them on Instagram.

Front Row Classics is celebrating one of the most popular mother/daughter stories in film history. Brandon is joined by author, Mayukh Sen to discuss 1937's Stella Dallas. The two celebrate of the hallmark performances of Barbara Stanwyck's career. With sensitive direction from King Victor, this movie still packs an emotional punch nearly 90 years later. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating the start of summer! We welcome back author John Malahy to count down the top 5 swimming pools in movie history. from the Golden Age to the 80s, Brandon and John discuss how pools have played important roles both aesthetically and dramatically.

Front Row Classics welcomes author Matt Browning to discuss his newest book, "Gilmore Girls Pop Culture Reference Guide". He has chronicled the countless pop culture references made episode-by-episode in this exhaustive book. The two chat about many of the references made throughout the run, especially classic film refences. Brandon and Matt also discuss the meteoric rise of Gilmore Girls and its devoted fan following.  "Gilmore Girls Pop Culture Reference Guide" is available from Lyons Press wherever books are sold. Matt Browning is a lifelong television devotee and pop culture enthusiast who has watched Gilmore Girls more times than he can count. His previous book, The Definitive Golden Girls Cultural Reference Guide (Lyons Press), is a similarly veined pop culture encyclopedia of that enduringly popular series, and Gilmore Girls Pop Culture Reference Guide is a worthy sequel that gives the same treatment to a show that had even more cultural references than The Golden Girls. The Golden Girls book was an instant favorite, rising to the top of its category rank on Amazon sales and earning out its advance in its initial print run. Browning lives in Charleston, West Virginia.  

Front Row Classics welcomes historian Jim Pauley to take a look at the history of Columbia Pictures. Jim recently penned "Columbia Pictures: A Century of Hollywood Motion Picture Magic". The book takes readers of the legendary studio during Hollywood's Golden Age. The book has hundreds of photos, including studio documents, vintage publicity stills, and candids, along with aerial views and maps. The majority of the photos have never been published before. "Columbia Pictures: A Century of Hollywood Motion Picture Magic" is available from Lyons Press wherever books are sold. Jim Pauley is a Hollywood historian with a special interest in the studio of Columbia Pictures and the famous comedy team The Three Stooges. In December 2012, his book titled The Three Stooges: Hollywood Filming Locations was published by Santa Monica Press. Pauley has given numerous presentations on The Three Stooges filming locations, which included Columbia Pictures. These presentations were given in Hollywood and other locations in California, as well in the Philadelphia area where he is from.    

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the greatest entries in Paul Newman's filmography. Brandon and Emmett Stanton take a look at 1963's Hud. The movie provided Paul Newman with one of his most complex character portrayals. Brandon and Emmett also tackle how the movie was one of the eulogies of the classic Westerns moviegoers has come to know. The performances of Patricia Neal, Melvyn Douglas and Brandon DeWilde are also praised. 

Front Row Classics welcomes entertainment journalist & podcaster, Jason Fraley. Brandon and Jason are both admirers of the work of George Stevens and are counting down their top 5 favorites. You can check out Jason's podcast "Beyond the Fame" at https://www.beyondthefamepodcast.com/ or wherever you listen to podcasts.   

Front Row Classics is celebrating several of our favorite melodramatic and soapy movies in film history. Friend of the podcast, Jessica Pickens, joins Brandon to chat about their favorite guilty pleasure movies from the 50 and 60s. 

Front Row Classics welcomes actor, writer & singer, John Dellaporta. Brandon and John are chatting about the notion of perfect movies. We all have different criteria for what constitutes a perferct movie and we're giving you our thought, From the Golden Age to the 80s/90s, Brandon and John cover the gamut of movies that check all of the boxes. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most popular screwball comedies of the Golden Age. Brandon welcomes back author Emily Edwards to cha about 1941' The Lady Eve. The two discuss the witty and hilarious moments provided by writer/director, Preston Sturges. 

Front Row Classics welcomes back historian & author Joseph McBride as he turns the tables on himself. The new book, "I Loved Movies, But..." features a candid conversation with his friend and film/baseball historian, Danny Peary. Joe and Danny join Brandon to discuss the origins of the book and the biggest milestones in his career in film. "I Loved Movies, But" is available from Sticking Place Books wherever books are sold. 

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome Leonard and Jessie Maltin to chat about their new book, "Family Movie Night Menus: Receipes & Films for Unforgettable Times Together". The book features 25 unforgettable family films and pairs them with specific receipe for your family to enjoy together with the film. The father/daughter duo discuss the origins of the book and how introducing young people to classic film can inspire them to be life-long aficianados.  Family Movie Night Menus: Receipes & Films for Unforgettable Times Together" is available from Turner Classic Movies and Running Press wherever books are sold. Leonard Maltin is one of the world's most recognized and respected film critics and historians. He is also a husband, father, and grandfather who has a long association with family-friendly films, from hosting Our Gang/The Little Rascals on home video to introducing The Walt Disney Treasures collectible DVDs—and reprising that role for four years on Turner Classic Movies. He and his daughter Jessie work together on a variety of projects, including a weekly interview podcast, Maltin on Movies, which has run since 2016. Jessie Maltin was born into the entertainment industry and has been lucky enough to gain experience in many different functions, from wardrobe to publicity. She is proudest of the work she does with her dad, running leonardmaltin.com and sharing the microphone for interviews with everyone from Angela Lansbury to Al Pacino, Norman Lear to Amy Adams and Jordan Peele.  

Welcome Maltins! Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome Leonard and Jessie Maltin to chat about their new book, “Family Movie Night Menus: Receipes & Films for Unforgettable Times Together”. The book features 25 unforgettable family films and pairs them with specific receipe for your family to enjoy together with the film. The father/daughter duo … Continue reading Ep. 438- Family Movie Night Menus with Leonard and Jessie Maltin →

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 70th anniversary of the film version of Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I. Brandon and Peter Martin chat about the legendary performances of Yul Brynner and Deborah Kerr. They also discuss what works and doesn't work about the translation from stage to screen. 

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome author/journalist Nat Segaloff. Brandon and Nat discuss the love of film and his passion for writing about film. Topics of discussion include: William Freidkin, Humphre Bogart, John Huston, The Towring Inferno and even Shari Lewis  & Lamp Chop. You can find links for all of Nat's books at: http://www.natsegaloff.com/

Front Row Classics will be celebrating the centennial of Marilyn Monroe throughout 2026. Our first episode welcomes podcaster and Monroe fan, Paul Walsh. Brandon and Paul are chatting about Marilyn's unfinished final film, Something's Got to Give in 1962. They discuss the legendary production history surrounding the film which evenutally became 1963's Move Over Darling with Doris Day. 

Front Row Classics welcomes independent wrestler Kairo Cortez. Brandon and Kairo discuss his background and origins in wrestling. They also discuss the art of being a heel and working a crowd. Kairo also discusses his ultimate goals in wrestling. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at Alfred Hitchock's personal favorite of all his films. Brandon is joined by Scott Gardner to chat about 1943's Shadow of A Doubt. Brandon and Scott discuss the realisim and small-town quality that makes the film different among the rest of Hitchock's canon. They also pay tribute to the performances of Joseph Cotten and Teresa Wright which keep the suspense grounded. 

Front Row Classics welcomes back our friend, Tony Maietta, to take a look at Lucille Ball's third show. Here's Lucy. Brandon and Tony each pick two favorite episodes from the sixth season run. They also chat about the series' most famous episode guest starring Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at a movie that's a little off-the-beaten-path for the show. Brandon is joined by film historian Sloan De Forest to chat about 1980's Xanadu. The movie, one of the most popular "bad films" of all time, remains a cult classic with many classic film inpirations. Brandon and Sloan discuss the influence of the late 70s/early 80s, the allure of Olivia Newton-John and the legendary presence of Gene Kelly. 

It's Oscar Night and Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most nominated films from 1965. Brandon is joined by Emmett Stanton and Matt Duffy to discuss Doctor Zhivago. The hosts chat about the epic nature of David Lean's storytelling, the wonderful performances of the ensemble cast and the stunning locations. The conversation also focuses on place Zhivago now holds in the pop culture zeitgeist

Dr Zhivago It’s Oscar Night and Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most nominated films from 1965. Brandon is joined by Emmett Stanton and Matt Duffy to discuss Doctor Zhivago. The hosts chat about the epic nature of David Lean’s storytelling, the wonderful performances of the ensemble cast and the … Continue reading Ep. 431- Doctor Zhivago →

Front Row Classics is taking a look at a pre-code gem. Brandon is joined by Sophia D'Aurelio Adair to chat about this charming film directed by Ray Enright. The movie is led by the unflappbale team of Joan Blondell and Glenda Farrell. Brandon and Sophia discuss some memorable moments and pine for the age when travel was glamorous. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 90th anniversary of Mr. Deeds Goes to Town. Brandon and Peter Martin are discussing the highlughts and relevance of Frank Capra's fable of an ordinary man in extraordinary circumstances. The two discuss the casting of Gary Cooper and Jean Arthur and many of the remarkable character actors who populate Capra's world. 

Front Row Classics celebrates the 40th anniversary of Stand by Me. Brandon is joined by, friend of the podcast, April Clemmer to celebrate this classic coming-of-age film.  The two also celebrate the career of the late Rob Reiner and reflect on their own coming-of-age stories. 

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Anthony Peck. Anthony is an actor, writer and son of Hollywood legend Gregrory Peck. Brandon and Anthony discuss his early years growing up and the impact of his father. The two also discuss many of his father's acting highlights and commitment to social justice. 

Front Row Classics welcomes back, friend of the podcast, Holley Snaith to celebrate 1937's Shall We Dance. Brandon and Holley chat about the ongoing legacy of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The two also discuss how the music of George and Ira Gershwin contribute to the charm of one of Astaire & Rogers' most unusual films in terms of plot. Standards such as "They All Laughed", "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off" and "They Can't Take That Away From Me" remain one of the lasting makrs this film has made on popular culture. 

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back Kate Luckinbill. Brandon and Kate are discussing the newly expanded edition of her grandfather, Desi Arnaz's, memoir. "A Book: The Outspoken Memoirs of the Man Who "Loved Lucy"―and Revolutionized Television" gives invlauable insight into the humor and heart of one of the true pioneers in the entertainment industry. Brandon and Kate discuss the trauma Desi experienced as child and his immigration to the U.S. They also chat about his zest for life and love of storytelling. "A Book: The Outspoken Memoirs of the Man Who "Loved Lucy"―and Revolutionized Television" with exclusive new material and commentary from Lucie Arnaz is available from Running Press wherever books are sold.  Kate Luckinbill has spent her life surrounded by show business and that guided her initial foray into acting. She graduated from the University of Miami Theatre Conservatory with a BFA and went on to write and perform her own one-woman show, Love, or Lack Thereof. After retiring from the stage at 25, Kate took another path, into the corporate world as a creative recruiter for the Fortune 50 and working with Snapchat, Amazon, Minecraft, and more. She has since found the balance of both worlds, working with her mother, Lucie, to maintain the Arnaz/Ball/Luckinbill legacies and estates, while also creating media such as a live audio production of an episode of The Twilight Zone. She has one beautiful son, Jeffrey Dodge.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most clever whodunnits of the 1970's. Author ,Morgan Matson, joins Brandon to take a look at 1973's The Last of Sheila. With a screenplay by Anthony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim, this offbeat film boasts a cast including James Coburn, Raquel Welch, Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon and James Mason. Brandon and Morgan discuss the plot twists and clever machinations that have definitely come to inspire films like Knives Out.

Front Row Classics welcomes back actor & filmmaker Raji Ahsan for this Valentine's Day. Brandon and Raji are celebrating the 75th anniversay of their favorite show, I Love Lucy. Instead of celebrating the greatest epsiodes, the two are deciding to highlight some of the shows they feel are most underrated. The discussion sparks a lot of fun and a couple disagreements. We hope you enjoy and let us know your thoughts!

Front Row Classics is happy to welcome back author, Chris Yogerst, to chat about one of the seminal westerns in Hollywood history. Chris recenlty penned a book for UNM Press' "Reel West" series on 1962's The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance. Brandon and Chris discuss the impact of John Ford's eulogy to the Old West. The two break down the performances of Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne, Vera Miles and Lee Marvin as well as the themes of fact & fiction.  "The Man Who Shot Libert Valance (Reel West)" is available from UNM Press wherever books are sold. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most singular films of the 1940s. Brandon and Peter Martin are discussing Dance, Girl, Dance from 1940. The film, directed by Dorothy Arzner, features oustanding performances from Maureen O'Hara and a scene-stealing Lucille Ball. Brandon and Peter discuss the production and themes which remain relevant in 2026

Front Row Classics is celebrating the 70th anniversary of High Society. Brandon is joined by Emmett Stanton and Ben Burke to chat about this classic musical remake of The Philadelphia Story. The three discuss the differences between the two films as well as the memorable score by Cole Porter. They also discuss the memorable performances of Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Celeste Holm and Grace Kelly (in her final film role)

Well Did You Evah? Front Row Classics is celebrating the 70th anniversary of High Society. Brandon is joined by Emmett Stanton and Ben Burke to chat about this classic musical remake of The Philadelphia Story. The three discuss the differences between the two films as well as the memorable score by Cole Porter. They also … Continue reading Ep. 420-High Society →

Front Row Classics is celebrating the legacy of Johnny Carson's Tonight Show. Brandon is joined by writer and comedian Mark Malkoff to discuss his book: "Love Johnny Carson: One Obsessive Fan's Journey to Find the Genius Behind the Legend". Mark has amassed Carson stories from more than four hundred individuals in one of the most comprehensive looks at this American icon. The book sets the record straight on many myths and provides one of most complete looks at Carson, the man.. "Love Johnny Carson: One Obsessive Fan's Journey to Find the Genius Behind the Legend" is available from Dutton wherever books are sold. Mark Malkoff is a comedian, writer, and podcast host. He has been featured on Today, Good Morning America, CNN, NPR's Weekend Edition, and for eight years hosted the popular podcast The Carson Podcast. His website can be found at www.markmalkoff.com.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at several of the greatest scenes on trains throughout movie history. Brandon is joined, once again, by author John Malahy to rank their top 5 favorite scenes on trains in films. The two approached their lists in different ways. Brandon's focuses on Hollywood's Golden Age. John decided to take a look at scenes from films of the 1980s to coincide with his recent book, "Rewinding the 80s" from TCM and Running Press. Let us know what your picks would be. 

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back Fred Grandy, Ted Lange and Jill Whelan. Brandon and his three guests discuss their new podcast all about their time on The Love Boat. They share memories of the memorable guest stars, locations and episodes that became part of pop culture history. You can find all of the information on The Love Boat Podcast at https://www.loveboatpodcast.com/

Front Row Classics is taking a look at 1978's The Wiz on this Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Based off the 1975 Broadway musical, the movie features incredible performances from the likes of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Lena Horne and Richard Pryor. Brandon is joined by the producer of the film, Rob Cohen to reminisce about the origins and productions of the film. Dr. Alfred Martin also returns to discuss his thoughts on the musical's themes of community, empowerment and liberation. 

Front Row Classics welcomes authors Kim Luperi and Danny Reid to chat about the films essential to an understanding of the Pre-Code era of film. Kim and Danny recently penned "Pre-Code Essentials: Must-See Cinema from Hollywood's Untamed Era, 1930-1934" The book chronicles the history and context of the Hollywood production along with a selection of films that best represent the era.  "Pre-Code Essentials: Must-See Cinema from Hollywood's Untamed Era, 1930-1934" is available now from TCM and Running Press wherever books are sold.    Kim Luperi wrote her undergraduate thesis on the censorship battle of Baby Face (1933) and never looked back. Currently, she curates the @precodedotcom Instagram account and is a freelance writer for TCM. She's written for AFI Fest, the American Cinematheque, and MovieMaker Magazine and covers classic film screenings at ISeeADarkTheater.com. Kim lives with her partner in sunny Los Angeles.   Danny Reid is a librarian who has been writing about pre-Code Hollywood for over a decade at pre-Code.com. His published writing includes Murder on Celluloid: A Companion to the Hildegarde Withers Film Series and acting as editor for the essay collection Thoughts on the Thin Man. Danny has introduced pre-Code film screenings around the world and appeared on podcasts to discuss the era. He currently lives in Germany with his wife, two kids, and three very silly dogs.  

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Eric Braeden to the podcast. Braeden is most known for his portrayal of Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless since 1980. Brandon and Eric discuss his storied career in film, television and theater. We discuss his experiences with actors such as Marlon Brando, Burt Reynolds, Fernando Lamas and Raquel Welch. Eric also takes Brandon through the experience of working in daytime for 45 years. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at an underrated gothic suspense classic from 20th Century Fox. Brandon is joined by film historian Daniel Marino to chat about 1945's Hangover Square. The two celebrate the artful direction of John Brahm and the towering performance of Laird Cregar. We discuss the production history as well as the careers of co-stars Linda Darnell and George Sanders.

Happy New Year! Front Row Classics is ringing in 2026 with our friend Emmett Stanton. Brandon and Emmett are chatting about 1981's The Four Seasons. The film, written and directed by Alan Alda, is an honest and humorous look at the lives of a group of friends as they vacation together over the course of one year. We discuss the stand out performances from Alda, Carol Burnett, Sandy Dennis and Rita Moreno among the other cast members. We also discuss the recent Netflix remake series from Tina Fey.

Happy New Year's Eve from Front Row Classics. Brandon welcomes back Scott Gardner to ring in 2026 with Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. The two are taking a look at 1957's Desk Set. The film is unique to the series of Tracy/Hepburn films. It's a lighthearted romantic comedy that provides from zany holiday fun.

Front Row Classics is finishing up our holiday week with one of the most heartwarming films for this time of year. Brandon and Morgan Matson are discussing 1940's Remember the Night. The two discuss the chemistry between Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray. They also praise the script by Preston Sturges and direction by Mitchell Leisen. 

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most heart warming films of the 1940s. Brandon and Peter Martin are chatting about 1945's The Bells of St Mary's. Bing Crosby reprises his role as Father O'Malley from Going My Way. This time, he's joined by the incandescent Ingrid Bergman. The movie is a story of faIth and hope that rings true 80 years later. It's a perfect film to add to your holiday week viewing. 

Merry Christmas from Front Row Classics. Brandon is joined once again by Tony Maietta to talk about some favorite offbeat viewing during the holiday season. Topics range from Golden Age feature films to classic sitcoms to 80s/90s romantic comedies.  Be sure to check out Tony's podcast, Going Hollywood, at https://www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com/

Front Row Classics is celebrating the holidays with the incomporable Barbara Stanwyck. Brandon is joined once again by Jackson Cooper to celebrate one of the greatest leading ladies in Hollywood History. They discuss two of her greatest contributions to the Holiday season: Christmas in Connecticut (1945) and Remember the Night (1940). 

Merry Christmas Eve from Front Row Classics! Brandon welcomes Front Row regulars, Emmett Stanton, Matt Duffy and Peter Martin to celebrate the holidays with plenty of film discussion and opinions. You'll hear tributes to Gene Hackman, Robert Redford & Diane Keaton as well as plenty of holiday film discussion. The hosts also reveal some personal top 5 lists. We, unfortunately, were unable to record all at the same time this year.. So, this is a jumbo holiday episode split in two sections.

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back Vanessa O'Neil. Brandon and Vanessa catch up since their last conversation in the summer. Vanessa discusses the Judy Garland Estate's launch on social media and the impact she is already seeing from it. The two also discuss Vanessa's reaction to Oz at the Sphere in Las Vegas as well as favorite holiday memories. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating the legacy of the legendary Peggy Lee. Brandon is thrilled to welcome Lee's granddaughter, Holly Foster Wells. As President of Peggy Lee Associates, Holly manages every aspect of grandmother's estate. Brandon and Holly discuss Lee's origins and rise to fame. They also touch on many of the ways she took control of her own career and legacy. In the spirt of the season, Peggy's unsung contributions to the White Christmas soundtrack is also discussed.    About Holly Foster Wells As the granddaughter of legendary singer-songwriter Peggy Lee, Holly Foster Wells has dedicated her career to preserving and championing one of the most distinctive voices in American music. Her education in the entertainment industry began early, touring with her grandmother and gaining firsthand insight into the artistry and the business behind the spotlight. Holly earned a degree in Communications from California Lutheran University before launching a successful career in television production, working as a coordinator for The Carsey-Werner Company and Castle Rock Entertainment, contributing to some of the most iconic shows of their time, including Roseanne, Seinfeld, and Will & Grace. In 1998, she transitioned from television to legacy work, stepping into the role she had long been preparing for as President of Peggy Lee Associates. Today, Holly oversees every aspect of her grandmother's legacy - including licensing, catalog management, publishing, and strategic partnerships - while safeguarding her grandmother's artistic vision and ensuring that Peggy Lee's voice continues to resonate with new generations.   You can find offical conent for Peggy Lee at the following handles: Instagram: @peggyleeofficial Facebook: @misspeggylee TikTok: @peggylee Threads: @peggyleeofficial YouTube: @peggyleeofficial