Podcasts about front row classics

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.

The Four Seasons 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 … Continue reading Ep. 410- The Four Seasons →

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.

Desk Set 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 … Continue reading Ep. 409- Desk Set →

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. 

Bells of St Mary’s 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 … Continue reading Ep. 407- The Bells of St. Mary’s →

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/

Merry Christmas! 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/ Don't forget to … Continue reading Ep. 406- Offbeat Christmas Viewing with Tony Maietta →

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). 

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. 

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.

Christmas Eve Special 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 … Continue reading Ep. 405- Christmas Eve Special with Emmett, Matt and Peter →

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

Front Row Classics continues our holiday celebration with our friend Jessica Pickens. Brandon and Jessica are discussing their favorite versions of A Christmas Carol. The versions range from the 30s-00s and aren't confined to just feature films. Television movies & specials are also covered.

Front Row Classics is beginning a week long holiday celebration with several Christmas specials. We welcome back Scott Nevins to chat about classic Christmas TV specials. Brandon and Scott diiscuss everything from A Charlie Brown Christmas to the numerous Rankin/Bass specials.  It's a fun and nostalgic walk down memory lane. 

Front Row Classics welcomes back our friend James Duke Mason. Brandon and Duke discuss favorite Christmas movies and holiday traditions while also paying tribute to the late Robert Redford. We also spend time discussing Duke's new podcast called Duke's Download.

Brandon welcomes film critic and Oz historian Ryan Jay to Front Row Classics. Ryan is one of America's most popular nationally syndicated entertainment critics. The two discuss his passion for movies, especially those involving the Oz universe. We also discuss the release and reaction of Wicked: For Good. 

Welcome Ryan Jay Brandon welcomes film critic and Oz historian Ryan Jay to Front Row Classics. Ryan is one of America's most popular nationally syndicated entertainment critics. The two discuss his passion for movies, especially those involving the Oz universe. We also discuss the release and reaction of Wicked: For Good.  Don't forget to follow/reach … Continue reading Ep. 398- A Conversation with Film Critic/Oz Historian, Ryan Jay →

Front Row Classics is paying tribute to the incomporable Robert Redford. Brandon is joined by, friend of the podcast, Jackson Cooper to pay tribute to the career of one of Hollywood's most indelible icon's and filmmaking's greatest champions. Brandon and Jackson discuss their favorite films of Redford's as well as his greatest directroial acheivements. They also discuss his commitment to the art of movies through his work with Sundance. 

Front Row Classics welcomes actor, singer and fellow podcaster, Robert Bannon. Brandon and Robert are discussing 1942's Talk of the Town. The two have a lively conversation on how the movie remains relevant in 2025. They also celebrate the director of George Stevens and the miraculous performances of Cary Grant, Jean Arthur and Ronald Colman.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at some of our favorite villains in film history. Brandon is joined by Ben Burke to count down out favorite villains from Hollywood's Golden Age.

Front Row Classics is continuing the celebration The 40th anniversary of The Golden Girls. Brandon is thrilled to welcome, director, Lex Passaris. Lex was part of the Golden Girls family from the inception eventually working his way up to full-time director. Lex tells Brandon stories of how he became involved, favorite episodes & guest stars and memories of directing the final episode. 

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome Taylor Cole Miller and Alfred Martin to the podcast. The two recently edited "The Golden Girls: Tales From the Lanai" an anthology that brings an academic and historical look at the impact of one of the most popular sitcoms in history. Brandon, Taylor and Alfred discuss the show's impact on audiences of all backgrounds, identities and ages.  "The Golden Girls: Tales From the Lanai" is available from Rutgers University Press wherever books are sold.  Taylor Cole Miller is an assistant professor of media studies at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Alfred L. Martin Jr. is an associate professor and chair of the Department of Cinematic Arts at the University of Miami. He is the author of Fandom for Us, by Us: The Pleasures and Practices of Black Audiences and The Generic Closet: Black Gayness and the Black-Cast Sitcom, and editor of Rolling: Blackness and Mediated Comedy.    

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome back Jennifer Grant. Brandon and Jennifer discuss the legacy and impact of her Father, Cary Grant. The two discuss his memorable roles and several of her personal memories of him. They also discuss Jennifer's own career including the recent release of "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey" 

Front Row Classics welcomes back film historian & Carole Lombard biographer, Olympia Kiriakou. Brandon and Olympia are discussing 1942's To Be or Not to Be. The film, still as relevant as ever, remains a hilarious and biting satire featuring landmark performances from Lombard and Jack Benny. Brandon and Olympia also celebrate the work of director Ernst Lubitsch. 

Front Row Classics welcomes Carey Peck. Carey is the son of the legendary Gregory Peck and discusses his Father's legacy with Brandon.  Topics include Peck's memorable roles, philosophies and commitment to social justice. The two also discuss Carey's careers in politics and education.

Front Row Classics celebrates Noirvember with a suspenseful 1954 noir from Fritz Lang. Brandon and Emmett Stanton are chatting about Human Desire. The film features strong performances from Glenn Ford, Broderick Crawford and the incomparable Gloria Grahame. Brandon and Emmett also chat about the railroad imagery and strange subtext seen throughout the movie.

Front Row Classics welcomes three special guests to discuss all aspects of show business. Brandon is chatting with Adam Huss (Actor/Writer), Adam Bucci (Actor/Producer/Business Owner) and Lesley Aletter (Stuntwoman/Actor). We discuss their respective careers & inspirations from the Golden Age of Hollywood and beyond. Huss discuss his latest project called "Truth Man", a comic book superhero that speaks to today's generation. Brandon and Lesley also go into detail about her stunt career and her legendary mother, Lee Meriwether.

Happy Thanksgiving from Front Row Classics. Brandon is joined author/journalist, Maureen Lee Lenker to celebrate the classic stars we're most thankful for in 2025. Brandon and Maureen rank their top 5 Golden Age actors who have given them the most joy this year. Let us know who you're most thankful for!

Happy Thanksgiving! Happy Thanksgiving from Front Row Classics. Brandon is joined author/journalist, Maureen Lee Lenker to celebrate the classic stars we’re most thankful for in 2025. Brandon and Maureen rank their top 5 Golden Age actors who have given them the most joy this year. Let us know who you’re most thankful for! FEATURING: Brandon … Continue reading Ep. 386- Top 5 Stars We’re Most Thankful For →

Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back the Czar of Noir himself, Eddie Muller. Brandon and Eddie celebrate all things film noir, including the 75th anniversaries of Sunset Blvd and The Asphalt Jungle. Topics also include coming attractions on Noir Alley and recapping the TCM Cruise. 

Noirvember 2025 Front Row Classics is thrilled to welcome back the Czar of Noir himself, Eddie Muller. Brandon and Eddie celebrate all things film noir, including the 75th anniversaries of Sunset Blvd and The Asphalt Jungle. Topics also include coming attractions on Noir Alley and recapping the TCM Cruise.  FEATURING: Brandon Davis Don't forget to … Continue reading Ep. 385- Noirvember 2025 with Eddie Muller →

Front Row Classics welcomes AEW writer & host RJ City. RJ is a former professional wrestler who has maneuvered his way to the creative side in recent years. We discuss his early career and how classic film and television has influenced his creative life. Brandon and RJ also discuss the art of interviewing and his role as one of the architects in the "Timeless" Toni Storm storyline. Storm has made several appearances with Turner Classic Movies in one of the most fun crossovers in recent memory.

Front Row Classics welcomes back, friend of the podcast, Matt Duffy from Reel Gold Rundown. Brandon and Matt are counting down their personal top 5 star entrances in movies. These moments represent some of Hollywood's greatest stars at their zenith. The choices ranges from the 30s through 80s and include some of the most iconic stars in film history. 

Front Row Classics welcomes award winning host, comedian and interviewer Scott Nevins. Brandon and Scott discuss his life in entertainment and many influences. The two chat about the hundreds of interviews and events he has hosted with the likes of Mitzi Gaynor, Liza Minnelli and Carol Channing. The conversation then turns to their mutual love of movie musicals and Scott's life in Palm Springs.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at the Best Picture winner of 1984. Brandon is joined by Dominic Cellini to discuss Milos Forman's Amadeus. We chat about the legendary performances of Tom Hulce and F. Murray Abraham (in an Oscar-winning performance) as Mozart and Salieri. Brandon and Dominic also discuss the film's incredible fusion of genres which allows it be a cut above the typical biopic, 

Front Row Classics is celebrating the release of "Wicked: For Good" this week. Brandon is joined by Oz historian, Victoria Calamito. Brandon and Tori discuss her origins as an Oz historian and the last impact of The Wizard of Oz on multiple generations. We also discuss her reactions to Oz at the Sphere in Las Vegas as well as her expectations to Wicked: Part 2. You can visit The Oz Vlog and see what Tori's up to here: https://linktr.ee/theozvlog

Front Row Classics is bringing you another top 5 list. Brandon and Tristan Tapscott and ranking their top 5 favorite plays that eventually made their way to the silver screen. Our picks range from the Golden Age all the way through the present day.

Front Row Classics is chatting with another set of film podcasters today. Brandon is sitting down with Trevor George and Jonathan Jagdeo and of the 'Reel Queer' Podcast. The three are discussing their origins as film lovers. Trevor and Jonathan also discuss their shared of love creating within the film business as well as film scene in their community of Austin, TX.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at the first in James Dean's trilogy of starring roles. Brandon and Peter Martin are discussing 1955's East of Eden. We discuss Dean's relationship with director Elia Kazan and how it affected his unique performance. The wonderful supporting cast includes Julie Harris, Raymond Massey and Jo Van Fleet (in an Oscar winning performance). The conversation also turns to the differences between the movie and John Steinbeck's novel. 

EPISODE 113 -  “BIG STAR, SMALL SCREEN - A CONVERSATION WITH FRONT ROW CLASSICS' BRANDON DAVIS” - 11/10/25 In the early days of television, many classic film actors were hesitant—or even outright refused—to appear on TV for a multitude of reasons. Many thought that TV was low-brow. Others thought they would get overexposed and it would somehow diminish their box-office power. Slowly stars like LORETTA YOUNG, BARBARA STANWYCK, ROBERT MONTGOMERY, and LUCILLE BALL figured out that TV could enhance and elongate their popularity and appeal. Slowly, classic stars began to pop up on the boob-tube. Joining us this week is BRANDON DAVIS, host extraordinaire of the fantastic podcast Front Row Classics, who will discuss the migration of classic film stars to the small screen and how it affected their popularity and careers. You haven't lived until you've seen IDA LUPINO doing her best “Norma Desmond” on an episode of “Charlie's Angels” in 1977.   SHOW NOTES:  Sources: Columbo: The Series (2017), by Scott V. Palmer; Wagon Train: The Television Series (2011), by James Rosin; I Love Lucy: The Complete Picture History of the Most Popular TV Show Ever (1998), by Michael McClay; Perry Mason TV Show Book (1987), by Brian Kelleher and Diana Merrill; Wikipedia.com; TCM.com; IBDB.com; IMDBPro.com; TV Series Mentioned: I Love Lucy  The Lucy Show The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour Here's Lucy The Barbara Stanwyck Show Dr. Kildare Gunsmoke Perry Mason Route 66 Wagon Train The Big Valley Batman Petticoat Junction The Brady Bunch The Carol Burnett Show Columbo Murder She Wrote The Love Boat Fantasy Island  Hotel Falcon Crest Charlie's Angels The Colbys --------------------------------- http://www.airwavemedia.com Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Front Row Classics welcomes back author, historian and journalist Jim Colucci. Brandon and Jim are discussing Jim's journey through writing about and celebrating classic and current television. They discuss Jim's experiences interviewing television legends. The conversation, then, moves to his books dedicated to The Golden Girls, All in the Family & Will & Grace. Jim also previews his upcoming book that chronicles the history of The Love Boat.

Front Row Classics will celebrating the upcoming release of Wicked Part 2 throughout the month with a series of Oz experts and enthusiasts. Brandon recently chatted with Nugent Cantileno. Nugent has worn many hats in the film industry including writing, directing, producing and production managing. The two discuss his career as well as his enthusiasm for The Wizard of Oz and other Oz properties. We also discuss his thoughts on Oz at the Sphere in Las Vegas. 

Front Row Classics is celebrating Halloween a couple days late with 1968's Rosemary's Baby. Brandon welcomes back Larry Aubrey to discuss Roman Polanski's horror classic. The two discuss the political climate which informs several of the movies themes. They also chat about the perfect casting of Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes and Ruth Gordon in her Oscar winning performance.

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

Happy Halloween! Front Row Classics is celebrating a century of Universal Monster Movies. Brandon and Peter Martin are commemorating the 100th anniversary of 1925's The Phantom of the Opera. The two discuss the chills and scares that still works all of these decades later. We also pay tribute to the artistry of Lon Chaney.

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