Podcasts about Screenwriting

Hands Chef! Matt Johnson is serving us Anthony Bourdain's early years with a side of Antonio Banderas. Does this Kitchen Confidential inspired vignette inspire us to compliment the chef or should we send it back to the kitchen? If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SUBURBAKNIGHT: Act Two Walter Knope has finally discovered the one thing worse than suspecting your new neighbor is a sex demon. Being right. Inside Richard's immaculate house, Walter gets the confirmation he was looking for. The Maitlands are dead. Richard isn't human. And he isn't just interested in Samantha. He wants everything Walter has. Walter tries to warn Sam. It goes badly. What starts as an argument about Richard quickly becomes an argument about money, sex, failure, jealousy and every other thing a married couple has been politely not saying out loud. Sam packs a bag. Walter, terrified Richard will get to her, practically helps her leave. Written by Nick Bannister, SUBURBAKNIGHT is a wicked suburban horror-comedy about marriage, masculinity and what happens when your midlife crisis actually grows horns. Walter needs someone who understands monsters. Enter Bobby Joe Williams. Local horror host. Full-time drunk. Part-time monster expert. Possibly the least reassuring person you could want standing between your family and eternal damnation. Bobby Joe confirms the bad news. Richard is an incubus. He feeds on souls, controls his victims through desire and, unfortunately, appears to be immortal. Meanwhile, Richard has already started remaking the neighborhood. Walter goes looking for Andy and instead finds him dead in the bathtub, his wife Alli transformed into something considerably less neighborly. Walter barely escapes with his life. Then Samantha comes home. Richard is waiting. This time, Sam sees him too. When Richard finally drops the charm and shows them what he really is, he offers Walter everything he ever wanted. Money. Freedom. A fresh start. All he wants in return is Samantha. Walter says no. Then Mia introduces Richard's face to a medieval mace. For a moment, it feels like the Knopes may actually have this thing under control. Then Richard takes their daughter. Now Walter and Sam are done running. They need Mia back. They need help. Unfortunately, the closest thing they have to a professional is Bobby Joe Williams in boxer shorts drinking margarita straight from a blender pitcher. So they do what any responsible parents would do. They raid the failed antique business. Crossbow. Mace. Axe. Sword. Armor. Walter's junk has finally found a purpose. And across the street, Richard is waiting. Starring Darin Toonder, Jim O'Heir, Jade Tailor, Jack Daniel, Rob Fitzgerald, Logan Laurel, Emily Brolin, Ashley Platz, and Zeke Alton. Produced by Table Read Podcast and Manifest Media Productions, LLC. Executive Produced by Jack Levy, Shaan Sharma, and Mark Knell. Find The Show: Table Read PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  CinemAddicts Episode 361 features reviews of Buddy, Coyote vs. Acme, and Filipinana. Plus Eric and Bruce review the Patreon assigned pick Ocean's Eleven. Timestamps 00:00: Intro 02:24: Coyote vs. Acme | Theaters 8/28 |

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to Emmy® nominated actor Nick Offerman and showrunner Mike Makowsky about their limited series - Death by Lightning. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2026. All rights reserved. For more great content, read Backstory Magazine!

SUBURBAKNIGHT: Act Two Walter Knope has finally discovered the one thing worse than suspecting your new neighbor is a sex demon. Being right. Inside Richard's immaculate house, Walter gets the confirmation he was looking for. The Maitlands are dead. Richard isn't human. And he isn't just interested in Samantha. He wants everything Walter has. Walter tries to warn Sam. It goes badly. What starts as an argument about Richard quickly becomes an argument about money, sex, failure, jealousy and every other thing a married couple has been politely not saying out loud. Sam packs a bag. Walter, terrified Richard will get to her, practically helps her leave. Written by Nick Bannister, SUBURBAKNIGHT is a wicked suburban horror-comedy about marriage, masculinity and what happens when your midlife crisis actually grows horns. Walter needs someone who understands monsters. Enter Bobby Joe Williams. Local horror host. Full-time drunk. Part-time monster expert. Possibly the least reassuring person you could want standing between your family and eternal damnation. Bobby Joe confirms the bad news. Richard is an incubus. He feeds on souls, controls his victims through desire and, unfortunately, appears to be immortal. Meanwhile, Richard has already started remaking the neighborhood. Walter goes looking for Andy and instead finds him dead in the bathtub, his wife Alli transformed into something considerably less neighborly. Walter barely escapes with his life. Then Samantha comes home. Richard is waiting. This time, Sam sees him too. When Richard finally drops the charm and shows them what he really is, he offers Walter everything he ever wanted. Money. Freedom. A fresh start. All he wants in return is Samantha. Walter says no. Then Mia introduces Richard's face to a medieval mace. For a moment, it feels like the Knopes may actually have this thing under control. Then Richard takes their daughter. Now Walter and Sam are done running. They need Mia back. They need help. Unfortunately, the closest thing they have to a professional is Bobby Joe Williams in boxer shorts drinking margarita straight from a blender pitcher. So they do what any responsible parents would do. They raid the failed antique business. Crossbow. Mace. Axe. Sword. Armor. Walter's junk has finally found a purpose. And across the street, Richard is waiting. Starring Darin Toonder, Jim O'Heir, Jade Tailor, Jack Daniel, Rob Fitzgerald, Logan Laurel, Emily Brolin, Ashley Platz, and Zeke Alton. Produced by Table Read Podcast and Manifest Media Productions, LLC. Executive Produced by Jack Levy, Shaan Sharma, and Mark Knell. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“We're all salespeople at the end of the day.”Whether you're pitching a movie, an idea, or yourself, persuasion is about more than the story you're telling—it's also about the story your audience sees for themselves. For Deadpool and Zombieland screenwriter Rhett Reese, that means keeping communication concise, compelling, and centered on what your audience needs. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Reese joins Matt Abrahams to share lessons from screenwriting that apply far beyond Hollywood. From cutting unnecessary words to crafting pitches that make your audience the protagonist, he explores how storytelling, collaboration, and clarity can make any message more persuasive.Takeaways:Every pitch tells two stories. You're selling the idea itself, but you're also showing your audience how saying yes can solve their problem, reduce their risk, and lead to their success.Brevity makes your message stronger. Cutting unnecessary words and choosing them carefully helps your ideas land with greater clarity, impact, and memorability.Activity:Tell the second story. Take a pitch you're currently working on and write one sentence describing the idea you're selling. Then write a second sentence from your audience's perspective: “If I say yes, what becomes possible for me?” Use that second story to reshape your pitch around their success, not just your idea.Printable Expanded Takeaways & ActivitiesEpisode Reference Links:Rhett ReeseEp.167 Hollywood Lessons For Successful Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:18) - Make Every Word Count (03:09) - How to Pitch an Idea (07:38) - Creatively Collaborating (10:35) - Creating Space for Feedback (12:49) - AI & the Future of Hollywood (16:44) - The Final Three Questions (23:15) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/smartJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

We're hanging out at The End of Oak Street, discussing dinosaurs, summoning Spielberg and pontificating about Poltergeists! If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to co-writers Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers about their hit film - Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2026. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

CinemAddicts Ep. 360 features movies that come out the week of Friday August 21, 2026. Films reviewed include The Magic Faraway Tree, Rosbush Pruning, and Learning to Fly. ***We release a couple of movie spoilers each week on our CinemAddicts YouTube Channel. This week, we did spoilers on The Magic Faraway Tree and Rosebush Pruning. Timestamps 01:54 - The Magic Faraway Tree | Theaters 8/21 |

Writing a screenplay is easy. Writing one that Hollywood actually wants to read is something entirely different. In this episode, veteran screenplay consultant David Hohl shares decades of experience helping writers transform rough ideas into professional screenplays. From outlining and story structure to networking, screenplay contests, and script consultants, David explains why most first-time writers fail—not because they lack talent, but because they skip the preparation that professional writers never ignore.The conversation also explores why horror remains one of the smartest genres for filmmakers looking to break into the industry, the importance of building relationships instead of chasing shortcuts, crowdfunding versus private investors, low-budget filmmaking strategies, and how online education has completely changed the way aspiring filmmakers learn their craft. Whether you're writing your first screenplay or polishing your tenth, this episode is filled with practical advice that can save years of frustration and dramatically improve your storytelling.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bulletproof-screenwriting-podcast--2881148/support.

CinemAddicts #359 features reviews of movies coming out the week starting Friday, August 21, 2026. They are To Use A Mountain, Rosebush Pruning, Blood Shine. Eric reviews The End of Oak Street.  Timestamps 00:17 - Episode begins 01:30 - Eric traveled to Boulder for a To Use A Mountain screening | Hits DCTV 8/21 | Website . On the podcast cover, the lower right photo has Eric with his gf Emmy and To Use a Mountain director Casey Carter. 03:20 - To Use A Mountain review and screening details |

We return to Camp Miasma for some good ol fashioned teenage sex and death! (Be careful with your google searches!) This Persona inspired self actualization tale features a little death and a little love! If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CinemAddicts Episode 358 features movies coming out the week of Friday, August 14, 2026. They include The Brink of War, The Wrong Girls, Hellcat, and American Doctor. Bruce Purkey also reviews the Hulu serious Furious and gives his take on the new documentary An Eye For An Eye.   Timestamps 01:30 - The Brink of War |

Breaking into Hollywood has never followed a single formula, and Jeanne Veillette Bowerman proves that some of the most successful careers begin far outside Los Angeles. After owning a motel and restaurant for fifteen years, Jeanne reinvented herself as a screenwriter, eventually becoming the editor of Script Magazine, co-founder of the influential #ScriptChat community, and a respected voice in the screenwriting world. She shares how social media transformed her career, why networking online opened doors traditional methods never could, and how writers today can build meaningful relationships that lead to real opportunities instead of simply chasing representation.The conversation dives deep into practical screenwriting advice, including outlining versus discovery writing, choosing marketable concepts, rewriting, screenplay contests, pitching, script coverage, building an online presence, and the mindset required to survive the entertainment industry. Jeanne also offers candid insights into balancing a full-time career with writing, why every screenwriter should have a website, how to use social media professionally, and why generosity often becomes the greatest networking strategy a filmmaker can develop.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bulletproof-screenwriting-podcast--2881148/support.

For authors curious about screenwriting, knowing how to write for the screen is only part of the equation. Writing for the screen is entirely different from putting a novel together, and there is an entire industry surrounding the process that brings its own opportunities, challenges, and often unpredictable paths to success. This week, Craig and Roland explore that world with writer and Emmy-winning producer Elliot Blake, whose decades-long career has taken him down a winding path through animation, television, audio drama, and prose. Elliot shares how he found his way into the entertainment industry, what it really takes to get a project from idea to screen, and why persistence and patience can be just as important as writing talent. The conversation not only covers the differences between writing for the page and writing for the screen, or what happens when stories move between mediums, but also the realities of the industry itself. Developing a project can involve far more than just the writer, with producers, studios, artists, and other collaborators all playing a role in bringing a story to life. Elliot generously shares lessons he's learned throughout his career, such as how to work within the rules without getting trapped by them, the importance of studying successful scripts, and why you should never assume you've learned everything you need to know. Any author curious about screenwriting will find this discussion a fascinating and candid look at both the creative process and the industry surrounding it.    Elliot Blake https://elliotblake.com/     Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to co-writers Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers about their new film - Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2026. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

CinemAddicts Episode 357 features Eric Holmes and I reviewing the new movies Do Us Part, An Eye For An Eye, Feed and Elijah Peel. The first 20 minutes has us bantering back and forth as Eric talks about Ice Cream Man and his new girlfriend. I discuss my love for the Anza Burrito (only $11) which is served up at The Anza Hotel. Thx to fellow cinephile Julia for the awesome food.  Eric also really dug this upcoming documentary To Use A Mountin, and it has its Colardo premiere at The Mimesis Festival 8/11 in Boulder. If you are in the area, say hi to Eric and catch the Documentary! After all that chatter, we get into movies: Timestamps 20:00 - Feed / 

It's a Brand New Day for the podcast as we've swung back to New York City and wrapped up our Cusack Attack Summer (or whatever we called it). Our favorite friendly neighborhood web slinger is back and we're thrilled to invite friend of the show Thandiwe Woodard (aka JonathanBlade) to help rank our favorite Spidermen!If you'd like to score a slightly used but well cared for copy of Back to the Future, answer these two questions and email us in at onlymoviepodcast@gmail.com!What was the original title of Back to the Future?Who was originally cast as Marty McFly but eventually replaced by Michael J Fox?If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rewind. Did you know there was another SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE besides the animated blockbuster starring Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key, Seth Rogen, and Fred Armisen? The first SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE hit theaters in 1993 and was the first feature-length live-action film based on a video game. Directed by the husband-and-wife team Rocky Morton and Annabel Jankel, it follows brothers Mario Mario (Bob Hoskins) and Luigi Mario (John Leguizamo) as they quest to rescue Princess Daisy (Samantha Mathis) from a dystopian parallel universe ruled by the ruthless King Koopa (Dennis Hopper). Unfortunately, it was a box office failure and was widely panned by critics. The credits list three writers, Parker Bennett, Terry Runté, and Ed Solomon.Why did one MARIO movie succeed when the other MARIO movie didn't? That's the big question Sandy and Terry tackle in this episode.  

Want to listen before everyone else? Mamamia subscribers get exclusive early access to No Filter from 6am every Saturday, a full two days before regular listeners. Click here to subscribe now. Harriet Dyer spent years chasing an acting career, navigating rejection, self-doubt and the uncertainty that comes with trying to make it in one of the toughest industries there is. Then she co-created Colin From Accounts with her husband, Patrick Brammall—and everything changed. In this episode of No Filter, Harriet joins Kate Langbroek for a candid conversation about building one of Australia's most successful television shows, why she and Patrick have chosen to end it while it's still at its peak, and the unexpected cost of creating something that consumed almost every part of their lives. Harriet also opens up about growing up shy, being rejected from NIDA twice, becoming a mother while writing and filming three seasons of television, the guilt of balancing work and family, and why she believes the best creative partnerships are built on trust, honesty and knowing when to let go. This is a conversation about creativity, ambition, marriage, motherhood and the courage to keep choosing the life you want—even when it's the harder one. The third and final season of Colin From Accounts is streaming now on Binge. Want to listen before everyone else? Mamamia subscribers get exclusive early access to No Filter from 6am every Saturday, a full two days before regular listeners. Click here to subscribe now. What To Listen To Next: Listen: Amy Shark: “There’s No Way I Should’ve Made It” Listen: Everyone's Talking About Rosie O'Donnell. This Conversation Explains Why Listen: Dave 'Hughesy' Hughes: "I Have Been a Narcissist Most of My Life" Listen: Bek Condello Was Born Into A Cult. Escaping Was The Easy Part Listen: Harrison James: What Every Parent Should Know About Grooming Listen: Jessica Rowe On The Brutal Public Humiliation That Changed Her Forever Listen: Esther Perel: When You Choose Your Partner and Lose Your Family Listen: Georgie Tunny & Rob Mills: The Marriage And Baby Conversation Everyone Keeps Asking About You can now watch our show in full length video on the Apple Podcast app - make sure your phone is up to date and we can't wait for you to see. CLICK HERE. Get access to Very Peri, Mamamia's exclusive perimenopause series, for just $59. 25 world-leading experts, over 20 on-demand sessions, available now. We’ve sorted through the noise so you don't have to. Go to veryperi.com.au and join me today. You hot? Same. Buy today and save 40% Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here. Watch No Filter on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram here. Follow us on TikTok here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Harriet Dyer Host: Kate Langbroek Executive Producer: Bree Player Audio and Video Producer: Julian Rosario Content and Social Producer: Jess Chan Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CinemAddicts Episode 356 features movies that are coming out this week reviewed by Bruce Purkey. They are Cookie Queens, Late Fame, and Big Baby. He also reviews Nirvanna The Band The Show. Eric Holmes closes out the episode with an interview with Yihong Exa Huang, director of the short Fortune House. Fortune House makes its world premiere at the LA Shorts International Film Festival at Regal NoHo West in Los Angeles.  Timestamps 00:00 - Intro 07:10 - Big Baby / VOD August 7 17:34 - Late Fame / Theaters August 7 26:34 - Cookie Queens / Theaters August 7 /

[REBROADCAST FROM June 16, 2026] The new movie "The Invite" shows a dinner party gone sideways when a couple struggling in their marriage invites their upstairs neighbors over for a meal. Co-writers Rashida Jones and Will McCormack discuss the film.   Still courtesy of Annapurna Pictures Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Samy Burch's new film, LATE FAME, stars Willem Dafoe and Greta Lee and opens this coming weekend; her big debut, MAY DECEMBER, earned her an Oscar nomination. This singular screenwriter has maybe always been a sicko at heart: she's relating to the one and only Thora Birch in GHOST WORLD, an artsy outsider teen who's trying to make sense of a the world she's constantly scrutinizing -- and being scrutinized by.  Then, Jordan has one quick thing about Statham Month at The Action Desk. Celebrating Statham: 3 Essential FightsCelebrating Statham: 5 Essential Weapons   Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joinfeelingseen Feeling Seen is hosted by Jordan Crucchiola and is a production of Maximum Fun. You can watch video editions of our new episodes on our YouTube Channel!Need more Feeling Seen? Keep up with the show on Instagram and Bluesky.

CinemAddicts Episode 355 features movies coming out the week of Friday, August 7, 2026. The movies are Ice Cream Man, Big Baby, Olmo, and Late Fame.  Timestamps 08:59 - Late Fame / In New York (8/7) and Los Angeles (8/14) /  Nationwide rollout to follow /

Please put your seat back in its upright position and buckle up because Con Air is preparing for a crash landing! The summer of Cusack comes to its natural conclusion with Cage, Cusack, Malkovich and Buscemi teaming up for the wildest flight this side of Passenger 57. If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hang out with us for a fun conversation with Lisa Orkin and Harris Orkin — daughter and son of legendary radio writer, actor, and producer Dick Orkin. Dick Orkin, the mind behind the iconic radio serial “Chickenman” and the creative powerhouse The Famous Radio Ranch, was hailed by Newsweek as the pioneer of “The Advertising Theater of the Absurd.” He revolutionized audio advertising with his use of deadpan comedy, memorable characters, and situational humor, setting a new standard for creative storytelling in audio.Meet Our Guests:Lisa Orkin is a comedian, actor, writer, and audio director renowned for her unique blend of comedy, storytelling, and marketing across radio, film, and digital audio platforms. She's also known for her podcast production work, distinctive voice acting, and creative leadership at The Radio Ranch.Harris Orkin is a multi-medium storyteller — author, playwright, screenwriter, video game narrative designer, and voice director. He's best known for his BAFTA and WGA-nominated scripts for the Resident Evil video games and for his James Flynn Escapades spy comedy novels. The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernExecutive Producer/CreatorSandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller 

CinemAddicts #354 reviews movies coming out the week of Friday, July 31, 2026. They are Above & Below, The Samurai and the Prisoner. Son of Sara, and The Devil's Mouth. Bruce Purkey also reviews the Patreon Assigned pick Yours, Mine & Ours.   Timestamps 00:00 - Intro 05:40 - Some Karaoke Insights 11:16 - The Samurai and the Prisoner / NY & LA July 31 / Janus Films 19:47 - Son of Sara / VOD/Digital July 31.

Listen to learn how to move an audience with a character who never changes. Do characters need to change for you to have a satisfying story? That's a question we've been asking since, like, episode five of this podcast. And we're finally talking about it! In this continuation of our deep dive into character arcs -- Stu, Chas and Mel break down MOANA, APOLLO 13 and THE DRESSMAKER to work out what carries a story when a character arc doesn't. If your protagonist isn't going to change, the drama has to come from what they do to everyone else. We do manage to figure out some tools that carry a steadfast story: doubt and wobble (a character with no doubt isn't steadfast, they're a psychopath), emotional events between characters, and a distinction borrowed from operant conditioning — additive rewards (you gain something) versus subtractive ones (something is taken away). The subtractive reward is why a happy ending can still feel like loss... and it's the thing we reckon that'll matter most when we get to negative arcs. We also wibble-wobble over WILLOW, TAKEN, FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF, THE MARTIAN, PROJECT HAIL MARY, THE GREY, ALL IS LOST, STAR WARS (as always), GREY GARDENS, PRISCILLA, and how many tampons NASA sent to space. As always: SPOILERS ABOUND and all copyright material used under fair use for educational purposes. LIKE THIS EPISODE? Discuss with our Patrons on Patreon. Watch and comment on YouTube. Send us feedback. Thanks to our Patrons, especially Khrob, Theis, Sandra, Jesse, Randy, Paulo, Thomas, Jennifer, Malay, Alexandre & Natalie and Lily. → Read the transcript for this episode. ——— "If your characters are not going to arc, if they are going to remain steadfast, then creating multiple smaller emotional events is really important to keep the story dynamic." — Mel Killingsworth @ 02:32:01 ——— CHAPTERS 00:00:00 – Cold Open 00:00:18 – What Is a Steadfast Character Arc? 00:04:24 – › Character as habitual action and setting up payoff 00:05:56 – › Operant conditioning and additive versus subtractive rewards 00:09:14 – › Zero-context takeaways on steadfast emotional stakes 00:10:33 – The Questionnaire for Analysing Character Arcs 00:12:18 – MOANA 00:13:31 – › Credits and the hero's journey plot summary 00:16:12 – › The I Want song and being pulled versus pushed 00:20:14 – › Moana's steadfastness causes her own low point 00:22:47 – › Steadfast belief that changes others, not the self 00:25:57 – › Multiple challenge types needed to dramatize resilience 00:27:25 – › Maui's arc contrasted as genuine positive change 00:29:38 – › Skills and rewards versus true character transformation 00:36:22 – › Grandmother and father relationships deepen audience intimacy 00:41:15 – › Disney princess genre expectations for character arcs 00:45:27 – › Tracking when and whether Maui and Moana change 00:48:36 – › The reluctant ally pattern across MOANA, STAR WARS, WILLOW 00:52:10 – › Contrast, theme, and the audience's emotional event 00:53:08 – APOLLO 13 00:55:50 – › Plot summary and the docudrama's technical problem-solving 00:57:38 – › Riveting problem-solving without any character value change 01:00:56 – › Emotional events replace arcs in the Jack and Jim relationship 01:09:12 – › Emotional tension versus arc as a structural framework 01:14:42 – › Disaster movies compared across steadfast and positive arcs 01:16:23 – › Do any characters change their relationship to themselves? 01:20:02 – › Working the steadfast questionnaire against APOLLO 13 01:33:53 – THE DRESSMAKER 01:39:16 – › Debating Tilly's true objective in returning to Dungatar 01:44:51 – › Steadfastness as being the agent of change for others 01:48:37 – › Teddy's death punishes the belief that she isn't cursed 01:52:16 – › Subtractive reward and removal of burdens versus true change 01:57:00 – › GREY GARDENS as a parallel study in steadfast protection 02:02:18 – › Tilly's revenge tactic transforms the town around her 02:11:55 – › Fairy tale logic and heightened melodrama in the film 02:16:29 – › Debating whether Tilly is steadfast or an agent of change 02:20:11 – › Subtractive rewards and how the ending should feel 02:24:23 – › How the story world punishes and rewards transformation 02:27:01 – › Was this steadfast, a positive arc, or both? 02:31:45 – Key Learnings & Wrap Up FILMS MOANA (2016) — (w) Jared Bush, Ron Clements, John Musker, Chris Williams, Don Hall, Pamela Ribon, Aaron Kandell, Jordan Kandell (d) John Musker, Ron Clements THE DRESSMAKER (2015) — (w) Jocelyn Moorhouse, Pj Hogan, Rosalie Ham (d) Jocelyn Moorhouse APOLLO 13 (1995) — (w) William Broyles Jr, Al Reinert, Jeffrey Kluger, Jim Lovell (d) Ron Howard RELATED EPISODES DZ-108: The Emotional Event with Judith Weston DZ-126: Secrets and Clues DZ-128: What even is a Character Arc? ——— More Draft Zero is brought to you by our awesome Patreons. If you enjoy the show, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a rating on Spotify, or a review on Podchaser. We are @stuwillis, @mehlsbells and @chasffisher on Twitter. You can find @draft_zero and @_shotzero on Instagram and Twitter. Full show notes at: https://draft-zero.com/2026/dz-129/

Joe Kazmer and Jarrod Burris join The USDN Podcast to discuss Collision Force #2, an action-packed creator-owned comic that's been described as an "R-Rated G.I. Joe."From building an original comic universe to crowdfunding and cinematic storytelling, Joe and Jarrod share the story behind the series, how their creative partnership began, the transition from screenwriting to comics, lessons learned through Kickstarter, and why action comics still have an important place in today's independent comic industry.In This Episode The origins of Collision Force  Building an "R-Rated G.I. Joe" for indie comics  Creator-owned worldbuilding  Screenwriting vs. comic writing  Writing action for comics  Crowdfunding lessons  Why action comics still matter  The future of Collision Force Learn More

Mia Thompson is a Swedish-American author best known for her internationally bestselling series, featuring heiress and vigilante, Sapphire Dubois. Prior to her life as a novelist, Mia studied Filmmaking in Europe, and Screenwriting in Los Angeles. website: authormiathompson.com IG: @miathompsonbooks --- Alie Dumas-Heidt is the author of The Myth Maker, a detective thriller introducing Det. Cassidy Cantwell, set in Tacoma Washington. She lives in the PNW with her husband, adult kids, and two spoiled dogs.

In this week's episode of the Filmmaker's Podcast, host Dom Lenoir takes the reins while Giles Alderson is away in Bulgaria. We are thrilled to welcome back director Josh Greenbaum for an esteemed "hat trick" third appearance on the show, along with actor and screenwriter Sean Clements. We dive into their new film, The Dink, a pickleball sports comedy that captures the nostalgic magic of late 90s and 2000s filmmaking. While the film brings the laughs, it also tackles universal and relatable themes like parental pressure, coaching aspirations, identity, ego, and pursuing second chances in your 40s. Josh and Sean share their filmmaking process, discussing how to successfully direct non-actors and improvisers, the art of trimming "precious" scenes for the greater good of the movie, and what it was like collaborating with producer Ben Stiller. What We Discuss in This Episode: The Return of Josh Greenbaum: Celebrating Josh's third appearance on the podcast and why he was drawn to The Dink as his next project. The World of Pickleball: Exploring the absurdity, accessibility, and real-life tennis community controversy surrounding the fastest-growing racket sport. Nostalgic Comedy & Themes: Harking back to classic 90s/2000s comedies like Happy Gilmore, Best in Show, Dodgeball, and The Wedding Singer, while exploring universal themes of identity, ego, and parental pressure. Screenwriting Origins: Sean Clements shares his personal journey as a former junior tennis player, his initial resistance to pickleball, and how finding an unlikely community of older players inspired the script. Collaborating with Ben Stiller: How Ben Stiller came on board to produce, his script notes, and how he helped bring former pro tennis player Andy Roddick into the cast. Directing Improvisers & Non-Actors: Josh's philosophy on creating a safe set where actors aren't afraid to fail, letting comedic talents like Aaron Chen ad-lib, and guiding dramatic actors like Ed Harris and non-actors like Andy Roddick to play their roles straight for maximum comedic effect. Kill Your Darlings (What's Good for the Movie): Sean talks about the transition from sitcom writing to feature films and a pivotal note from Josh on shortening a dramatic scene to serve the overall pacing of the film. The Power of Music: Using needle drops (from country music to Britney Spears' "Work Bitch") and score by Dara Taylor to drive character and emotional tone. Summer Filmmaking Advice: Dom's closing thoughts on how filmmakers can balance taking a summer break while prepping development and location scouting for the September autumn rush. Host: Dom Lenoir Guests: Josh Greenbaum & Sean Clements The DINK is our now on APPLE TV #TheDink #JoshGreenbaum #SeanClements #Pickleball #SportsComedy #Filmmaking #Screenwriting #Directing #BenStiller #AppleTV #TheFilmmakersPodcast #IndieFilm #Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writing a screenplay is easy. Writing one that Hollywood actually wants to read is something entirely different. In this episode, veteran screenplay consultant David Hohl shares decades of experience helping writers transform rough ideas into professional screenplays. From outlining and story structure to networking, screenplay contests, and script consultants, David explains why most first-time writers fail—not because they lack talent, but because they skip the preparation that professional writers never ignore.The conversation also explores why horror remains one of the smartest genres for filmmakers looking to break into the industry, the importance of building relationships instead of chasing shortcuts, crowdfunding versus private investors, low-budget filmmaking strategies, and how online education has completely changed the way aspiring filmmakers learn their craft. Whether you're writing your first screenplay or polishing your tenth, this episode is filled with practical advice that can save years of frustration and dramatically improve your storytelling.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

Send us Fan MailMany actors dream of landing a leading role, but increasingly, they're creating those opportunities for themselves.In this episode of Acting with Asha, we explore how actors can develop their own projects and ultimately cast themselves as the lead. From finding the right story and building a creative team to financing, producing and balancing performance with the demands of filmmaking, this episode looks at the practical steps involved in bringing a self-created project to life.Whether you're an actor considering writing your first screenplay, producing an independent film or simply looking for more control over your career, this episode offers insights into one of the most rewarding paths available to creatives today.Subscribe to Acting with Asha for weekly conversations with actors, writers, producers and industry professionals, sharing practical advice and honest experiences from across the film and television industry.Instagram: @jadeashapinkerton Production Company: @londonindependentpicturesSupport the showActing with Asha – Episode FooterEnjoyed this episode?Discover more insights on acting, entrepreneurship, and building a sustainable creative career with Jade Asha's book, Actorpreneur.

Story analyst Billy Mernit joins Michael Phillips to test one of Hollywood’s most enduring (and slippery) unofficial rules: Howard Hawks’ idea that a good movie is three good scenes and no bad ones.Mernit, an instructor and writer known as the “guru of rom-com,” brings nearly three decades of reading studio scripts and a working knowledge of how films get evaluated before they ever reach the screen. Together, they dig into what makes a “good scene” in the first place.Is Hawks’ dictum still useful? Or, like so many Hollywood rules, is it less a law of motion pictures than a reflection of how we choose to remember them?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We interrupt the summer of Cusack to bring you this special broadcast! Odysseus has returned and he's ready to take out the trash! Christopher Nolan thinks he can improve on Homer's epic tale, and Shahir's returned from his own Greek odyssey just in time to look a gift horse right in its wooden mouth!If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thanks for hanging out with us!In this REWIND episode, Sandy and Terry dive into a fascinating Twitter thread that shares some really valuable insights into how signed writers found their representation. A big thank you to Tyler Clair Smith, the talented writer on X who inspired this episode. Be sure to follow Tyler Clair Smith at @tclairsmith—we certainly did!In this episode, we discuss helpful internet programs for screenwriters. The Writers' Hangout Podcast did not receive payment for our opinion.The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Dan and Don have RETURNED for episode 272 of Reel Therapy to break down the HIT Apple TV show, "Widow's Bay".  With 19 Emmy nominations under its belt, the Reel Therapy crew talk about each episode in its freshman season, what works -- and what REALLY worked. Click that button NOW to watch/listen to our thoughts and don't forget to share YOUR comments and opinions below.TABLE OF CONTENTS --00:00:00 - About the Episode00:00:35 - Greetings00:02:15 - Widow's Bay - Season 1 Overview00:48:25 - Before We GoABOUT THE SHOW -- Widow's BayWidow's Bay is a horror-comedy set in a secluded New England island town where superstition is as much a part of daily life as the crashing waves. When the town's skeptical mayor sets out to transform the struggling community into a thriving tourist destination, long-dormant legends begin to awaken, forcing him to confront the possibility that the island's infamous curse is all too real. Blending eerie supernatural mystery with sharp humor and quirky characters, the series explores what happens when ambition collides with the unknown.FIND US --For everything Reel Therapy and 241 Studios, check out our website:LINK: https://www.241studios.com/Follow us on:Instagram: @reeltherapy_podcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/reeltherapypod

CinemAddicts #353 covers movies coming out week of Friday, July 24, 2026. They include Sheep in the Box, What Tomorrow Brings, American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez, Remake, A Life Illuminated, Jinsei, Sheep in the Box, and A Toxic Love Story.  Timelines 00:00 - Intro 10:00 - Jinsei / Now Available on VOD / Greenwich Entertainment 15:42 - American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez / Insignia Films 22:30 - What Tomorrow Brings / On Digital July 24 / Buffalo 8 41:13 - Bruce Purkey's in the CinemAttic! 43:29 - A Life Illuminated / Select Cities July 24 / Sandbox Films 49:25 - A Toxic Love Story / Streaming on Netflix / Netflix 54:08 - Remake / Playing in select cities / Music Box Films 63:33 - Sheep in the Box / NY & Los Angeles 7/24 / NEON Support CinemAddicts by using our Amazon Site Stripe and/or Affiliate links for your purchases. We receive a slight commission - thank you! CinemAddicts are Bruce Purkey, Eric Holmes, and Greg Srisavasdi Facebook CinemAddicts Movie Club Patreon YouTube Channel Deepest Dream Thanks to our Patreon Community Ryan Smith Stephen Schrock Susan Charles Peterson Nelson B. McClintock Diana Van De Kamp Pete Abeyta Tyler Andula Stephen Mand Edmund Mendez Abbie Schmidt Jeff Tait Robert Prakash Kristen Chris M Jeremy Chappell Lewis Longshadow Iver Alex Clayton Daniel Hulbert Andrew Martin Angela Clark Myron Freeman Kayn Kalmbach Aaron Fordham Tracy Peters Grant Boston Ken Cunningham   #SheepinTheBox #AToxicLoveStory #WhatTomorrowBrings

This week Director Nicolas Winding Refn joins us this week for a wide ranging conversation covering his career from Pusher through Bronson, Drive, and Neon Demon, up to his latest film, Her Private Hell, starring Sophie Thatcher.  Refn returns after a ten year break from feature filmmaking, following a near death health scare he's been open about. He breaks down his creative process in detail, including his use of a triangle structure to connect disparate ideas into a single story, and how images, rather than plot, are always his true starting point. Its a great conversation about the creative process, sooo... COME HANG OUT!!! Follow Us on Social Media:Instagram & Threads: @mostlyhorrorpodTikTok & Twitter/X: @mostlyhorrorSteve: @stevenisaverage (all socials)Sean: @hypocrite.ink (IG/TikTok), @hypocriteink (Twitter/X)Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more horror fans like you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Born in Swansea, Wales, James entered foster care at just two and a half months old before being adopted into a family in Cardiff. Adoption has shaped James's life in many ways, and he speaks openly about the lasting impact of his early experiences on identity, attachment, and the absence of post-adoption support. Now 23, James has turned his lived experience into advocacy. As a member of the Connected Youth Council in Wales, he works to ensure the voices of young adoptees are heard, helping shape services alongside the National Adoption Service of Wales and Adoption UK. Having recently graduated with an MA in Screenwriting, James is also passionate about bringing authentic adoptee representation to television and film. This is his story.

Send us a message.We start with a chance encounter. A stop to photograph an old Dodge pickup and a chain-net basketball hoop turns into an afternoon inside a stranger's garage, looking at restored Mavericks and pulling vintage car t-shirts out of a rag drawer. From there we get into what a camera actually does when you carry one everywhere: it gives you a reason to stop, talk to people, and end up somewhere you never planned to be. We talk about portraiture, about the woman who cried handing over a Nirvana shirt she'd kept for twenty years, and why one photograph from a whole day spent with someone beats a hundred quick frames.The second half turns on a prompt about quitting, and we land in different places on it. One of us reads walking away as evolution; the other keeps circling a line from Mad Men about only liking the beginning of things. That pulls us into screenwriting: the years of writing five pages a day in an LA apartment, imposter syndrome in studio meetings, a script that went out wide and didn't sell, and the decision to leave. We get into the difference between working and waiting, killing the small "bad problems" so there's room for the good ones, and whether you make art out of ego or out of a plainer need to communicate. -AiSupport the show If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We appreciate and try to read all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode. Links To Everything: Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT Matt's YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT Matt's 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT Alex's YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT Matt's Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG Alex's Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG 

The Summer of Cusack continues with a trip home back to 1997's Grosse Pointe Blank, a soft Pulp Fiction send up in the era when hitman roamed free and fell in love easily!If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What makes Terminator 2: Judgment Day one of the greatest films ever made?We're excited to have Becky D'Anna join us! Becky is a podcaster, a movie historian, and a lifelong cinephile with a 26-year career in movie marketing. We'll dive into an engaging chat about The Terminator, Comic-Con, the works of Ingmar Bergman, and much more!Becky shares how watching Terminator 2 on opening day in 1991 inspired her Hollywood career and ultimately led to a 26-year career in movie marketing, working on blockbuster franchises including X-Men, Spider-Man, and Terminator Salvation.The conversation also explores Quentin Tarantino's revival of historic movie theaters.In This EpisodeWhy Terminator 2 remains one of the greatest action and science fiction films ever made.How James Cameron blended spectacular action with an emotional story about hope and humanity.The evolution of the Terminator franchise and Becky's ranking of every film.The magic of seeing classic movies with an audience on the big screen.Quentin Tarantino's preservation of the New Beverly Cinema and the Vista Theatre.Becky's lifelong love of Comic-Con and what first-time attendees should expect.What it's like to work in movie marketing and how studios promote blockbuster films.How movie tie-ins with brands and restaurants help launch major releases.Why Ingmar Bergman's films continue to inspire generations of filmmakers.Connect with Becky D'AnnaHanging with Beckyhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hanging-with-becky/id1896866617Director's Take: A Sony Pictures Podcasthttps://directorstakepodcast.comT2 episode just dropped from Film 89 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-154-terminator-2-judgment-day-1991/id1332493155?i=1000777367810

CinemAddicts Episode 352 covers movies that are coming out the week of Friday, July 17th 2026. Movies covered include Reading Lolita In Tehran, The Kidnapping of Arabella, The Floaters, and Horsegirls.  This week, we covered the movies of Lars von Trier on the CinemAddicts Movie Club. Bruce Purkey also reviews Dancer in the Dark.  Timelines 00:23 - Intro 07:29 - The Kidnapping of Arabella -(

Breaking into Hollywood has never followed a single formula, and Jeanne Veillette Bowerman proves that some of the most successful careers begin far outside Los Angeles. After owning a motel and restaurant for fifteen years, Jeanne reinvented herself as a screenwriter, eventually becoming the editor of Script Magazine, co-founder of the influential #ScriptChat community, and a respected voice in the screenwriting world. She shares how social media transformed her career, why networking online opened doors traditional methods never could, and how writers today can build meaningful relationships that lead to real opportunities instead of simply chasing representation.The conversation dives deep into practical screenwriting advice, including outlining versus discovery writing, choosing marketable concepts, rewriting, screenplay contests, pitching, script coverage, building an online presence, and the mindset required to survive the entertainment industry. Jeanne also offers candid insights into balancing a full-time career with writing, why every screenwriter should have a website, how to use social media professionally, and why generosity often becomes the greatest networking strategy a filmmaker can develop.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

We're making a top 5 list of our favorite John Cusack movies, and coming in hot is Stephen Frears adaptation of Nick Hornby's High Fidelity. Written by Cusack and his Con Air collaborator Scott Rosenberg, this Ferris Buellers style Chicago confessional is the hangout movie for movie snobs who make lists (like us!)If you're enjoying the show, consider buying us a coffee, sending us an email or hitting us up on Letterboxd, Twitter(X), BlueSky or Instagram!You can catch our episodes early and ad free over on Nebula! Sign up with the link below. It really helps out the pod so we thank you in advance!https://go.nebula.tv/theonlypodcastaboutmoviesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CinemAddicts Episode 251 features review of the movies Reeling, The Isolate Thief, and Night Nurse. Recommendations from Bruce Purkey are Chainsaw Man and Ready or Not 2.    Night Nurse

RECALL: Act Three By the time RECALL reaches Act Three, Miami Military Academy is no longer pretending it can survive. The school is still marching, still saluting, still shining brass and barking orders into the Florida heat, but the center is gone. Colonel Barnes is dying. Commander Patterson knows it. Sally knows it. And the boys, even when they are laughing too hard to say it out loud, can feel the whole place slipping into history. Written by Academy Award nominee Bruce Davison, and once optioned and held by the great Carroll O’Connor with eyes on a Pacino lead,, RECALL is a funny, savage, deeply human coming-of-age drama about abandoned boys, broken fathers, old soldiers, Cuban exiles, secret weapons, and the terrible bargain countries make when they ask the young to carry the sins of the old. Act Three begins with the last quiet hours before everything breaks. Lishinsky and Sally steal a small piece of freedom on the water, drifting toward Captain Kidd’s Island, talking about California, escape, fathers, graves, and the strange fantasy that two damaged kids might simply sail away from all of it. But nobody really gets away from Miami Military Academy. Not yet. Inside Barnes’ house, Patterson sits beside a dying friend and is handed the thing no soldier wants: responsibility without rescue. Barnes tells him the Army is calling in its chips. The school, the land, the boys, the munitions, the whole dream is coming apart. Patterson rages because he knows what the place is, and what it has been. A broken institution, yes. A madhouse, absolutely. But also the only home some of these boys have ever had. Then the machinery starts moving. The Army arrives. The Cuban officials arrive. The inspection becomes theater. A live round falls where it should not. The old bunkers by the bay are suddenly more important than the boys standing in formation. The parade takes them through Miami and into the Dade County Fair, where the whole strange, glorious organism of “A” Company explodes into one last carnival of cigars, sheep, majorettes, busted noses, bad decisions, and Patterson turning, for one mad instant, into the hero the boys still need him to be. But the comedy cannot hold the line forever. Colonel Barnes is gone. The flag drops to half-mast. The Razor Fiend is finally revealed. Lindquist, the feral boy from the mango trees, becomes a cadet, a savior, and maybe the strangest proof that the academy was never only a school. It was a place that took in the lost and gave them a uniform because it had no better language for love. Slouch and Bebop reach the end of pretending. Bebop is called home by a country that no longer exists the way he remembers it. Slouch follows because friendship, for him, is the only oath that ever meant anything. The Cuban exiles come in the night. Patterson tries to stop them. History steps over him. Sally leaves for California. Lishinsky stays behind with the ache of first love and the knowledge that some people are not meant to be held. Patterson sits with his ghosts. The boys graduate into a world already waiting to use them. And somewhere beyond the academy walls, the Bay of Pigs turns courage, loyalty, and bad American promises into blood in the surf. RECALL is about boyhood at the edge of the American century, when duty still sounded clean from a podium and war still knew how to dress itself up as honor. It is about boys who wanted fathers, fathers who failed them, soldiers who could not save themselves, and a country that keeps asking the young to pay for the old men’s maps. Starring Alan Rosenberg, Carson Bolde, Stone Garcia, Wesley Kimmel, Dan Lauria, Kensington Tallman, Roxton Garcia, Bruce Davison, Luca Diaz, Amari O’Neil, Amir O’Neil, David Errigo Jr., Zeke Alton, Gian Franco Rodriguez, Miki Yamashita, Nemil Mudvari, Sofia D’Marco, and Ashley Ciarra. A portion of proceeds from RECALL will benefit the National Veterans Foundation and the Lifeline for Vets. To support NVF or speak with a Veteran who understands, visit https://nvf.org or call 888-777-4443. Produced by Table Read Podcast and Manifest Media Productions, LLC. Executive Produced by Jack Levy, Shaan Sharma, and Mark Knell.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RECALL: Act Two In February 1961, the boys of Miami Military Academy are still marching, joking, fighting, shaving, bleeding, stealing, and pretending the world outside the gates is someone else’s problem. But the world is already inside the school. It is in the news from Cuba. It is in the old munitions bunkers by the bay. It is in the secrets the adults keep, the wounds they drink through, and the wars they keep handing down to children. Written by Academy Award nominee Bruce Davison, and once optioned and held by the great Al Pacino, RECALL is a funny, savage, deeply human coming-of-age drama about abandoned boys, broken fathers, old soldiers, Cuban exiles, secret weapons, and the machinery that turns fear into patriotism. Act Two begins as Stephen Lishinsky tries to survive the strange education of “A” Company. His head has been butchered. His pride has been beaten. His idea of honor has already taken a few direct hits. When he tries to run, Commander Patterson finds him at the bus stop and gives him the kind of broken advice only a broken soldier can give: if you are in a storm, sometimes the only move is to sit tight and let the morning come. But morning at Miami Military Academy is never clean. Coombs is missing. The Razor Fiend is back. Bear is bleeding into the sink. Lindquist, the feral boy from the mango trees, is pulled into uniform and passed off as a cadet because, at this school, identity is just another piece of equipment someone misplaced. Sally Barnes drifts through the place like a lit match, furious at her father, suspicious of Patterson, and impossible for Lishinsky to ignore. Patterson tries to protect her, but the past between him, Colonel Barnes, and Sally’s mother is its own battlefield. Meanwhile, Slouch and Bebop stop pretending their war is imaginary. The key to Bunker 3 becomes guns, ammunition, and contraband dragged through the machinery of a school that is already falling apart. Patterson lectures boys on amphibious landings while the real invasion waits in the shadows. Bebop is pulled closer to the Cuban exile cause. Slouch, half romantic and half criminal, follows him into the Everglades, into blindfolds, pistols, secret rooms, and men who do not look like teachers. There is comedy everywhere because boys make comedy out of terror. There is coconut rum, marching songs, bad haircuts, chocolate cokes, contraband, dirty jokes, and the Dade County Fair waiting like a reward for good behavior nobody intends to have. But underneath the noise, the rifles are getting heavier. The lies are getting harder to carry. And the adults are running out of time. RECALL is about boyhood at the exact moment history stops being a lesson and starts becoming a weapon. It is about fathers who failed, sons who improvise, countries that ask for sacrifice before they explain the cost, and boys who are still laughing because they do not yet understand what the world is loading. Starring Alan Rosenberg, Carson Bolde, Stone Garcia, Wesley Kimmel, Dan Lauria, Kensington Tallman, Roxton Garcia, Bruce Davison, Luca Diaz, Amari O’Neil, Amir O’Neil, David Errigo Jr., Zeke Alton, Gian Franco Rodriguez, Miki Yamashita, Nemil Mudvari, Sofia D’Marco, and Ashley Ciarra. A portion of proceeds from RECALL will benefit the National Veterans Foundation and the Lifeline for Vets. To support NVF or speak with a Veteran who understands, visit https://nvf.org or call 888-777-4443. Produced by Table Read Podcast and Manifest Media Productions, LLC. Executive Produced by Jack Levy, Shaan Sharma, and Mark Knell.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have aliens already secretly visited us? Neil deGrasse Tyson sits down with Steven Spielberg and screenwriter David Koepp to discuss their new film Disclosure Day, alien contact, and why Spielberg believes there's more out there than meets the eye. NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can listen to this entire episode commercial-free here:  https://startalkmedia.com/show/disclosure-day-with-steven-spielberg-david-koepp/ Thanks to our Patrons GrassCobra, Donnie Foos, Ms Fattahipour, Nick, Sean Van Dommelen, Wendy, Jennifer Cramer, Marce Marie, Wooderpy the Wise, Ryan Taggart, McKenna, Leroy McReA, joseph, Lauren Katz, Chance Brandt, Cierra Baker, John Haney, Gogov, Silent, Cory Ford, Gary Flugge, Dylan Jennings, Sarah Perfetto, Kenneth, Alia Over The Years, Paul Gale, Sean McCallum, Alana Heyser, William Rinear, Prashanth Vissapragada, Łukasz Nyczkowski, Thorsten Rock, Pete Checchia, Marike Kreeftmeijer, Marilyn Geer Rivera, Ryan Pickhardt, Chad Chadwell, jlparques, Jack Yantz, Peter Magnusson, victoria, Abel, Daniel C Schlack, LabratMatt, Vishal Shankaran, Chris M, Brian Trudeau, Amrita A, Alexandra Swanson, Halvy, Ethan Murray, Emily Zelaya, ArdyMcHardy, Daniel Almada, kartik goswami, Kurt Blumeyer, hunter nash, Ryan Greer, johntravolta88, Cody, wackerow, Akash Gaur, Anthony Dannucci, Chelbie Hinton, Ron Hooper, Neil Smallwood, Elderbobo, BigBodyBimmer, ghost with a thought, and Pablo Giles Sanz for supporting us this week. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.