Podcast appearances and mentions of zach betonte

Originally published in April of 2016, Zach Betonte and Gary Sargenson discuss D.W. Griffith’s iconic melodrama, “Way Down East” originally released in 1920. The two debate the merits of Griffith’s cinematic legacy, how class relations are explored within melodrama and whether the film exists within a temporal or secular imaginary.

Originally published in March of 2016, Zach Betonte, Andrew Swope and Simone Barros discuss Stanley Donen’s Lerner and Loewe musical “The Little Prince'' adapted from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s novella of the same name and originally released in 1974. The discussion addresses how the film addresses the text’s existential themes, excavates its influence on future American musical forms, and its eclectic cast of characters.

Originally published November of 2015, Zach Betonte and Gary Sargenson discuss Pascal Laugier’s sociological horror thriller, “The Tall Man” originally released in 2012. The conversation inquires about the nature of the film’s unexpected social commentary, its anachronistic use of filmic space, and how it attempts to subvert conventional horror genre tropes.

Originally published September of 2015, Zach Betonte and Gary Sargenson discuss one of the definitive independent films of the 1990’s, “Buffalo ‘66” directed by Vincent Gallo and originally released in 1998. The conversation elaborates on the intense portrayal of a man-child, Gallo’s command of varying cinematic styles, and the film’s more impressionistic approach to storytelling.

Originally Published in May of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope are joined by former Film Jive co-host, Nick Wheatley to discuss the 1954 Japanese kaiju film, “Gojira” alongside the latest entry in the franchise, “Godzilla” released in 2014.

Originally published in March of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope are joined by Patrick Ripoll of Director’s Club and Tracks of the Damned to discuss the 1988 police training film, “Surviving Edged Weapons: How to Defeat Today's Fastest Growing Threat (Intended for Law Enforcement Only)”. Beware the blade...

Originally published in August of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Howard Hawks’ late-period comedy, “Man’s Favorite Sport?” originally released in 1964.

Originally published in October of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Werner Herzog’s foray into poetic horror with “Nosferatu, the Vampyre” originally released in 1979.

Originally published in October of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss William Castle’s horror classic, “Mr. Sardonicus” originally released in 1961. Cast your ballot in the punishment poll...

Originally published in September of 2014, Zach Betonte is joined by former Film Jive co-host, Nick Wheatley to discuss John Michael McDonagh’s black comedy, “Calvary” originally released in 2014.

Originally published in September of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Roger Corman’s psychedelic ethnography, “The Trip” originally released in 1967.

Originally published in September of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Georges Franju’s psychodrama, “Head Against the Wall” originally released in 1959.

Originally published in August of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Todd Haynes’ environmental thriller, “Safe” originally released in 1995.

Originally published in August of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Spike Lee’s modern masterpiece, “Do the Right Thing” originally released in 1989.

Originally published in June of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Roger Vadim’s black comedy, “Pretty Maids All in a Row” originally released in 1971 by MGM.

Originally published in July of 2014, Zach Betonte is joined by Thomas Wishloff, host of the Big Kahuna Burger and Genre Conversation podcasts, to discuss the Bong Joon-Ho science fiction film, “Snowpiercer”.

Originally published in July of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Charles Chaplin’s swan song, “A Countess from Hong Kong” originally released in 1967.

Originally published in November of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Andy Sedaris’ triple-B (bombs, bullets, babes) film, “Hard Ticket to Hawaii” originally released in 1987 by Malibu Bay films.

Originally published in June of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Peter Watkins’ political drama, “Punishment Park” originally released in 1971.

Originally published in May of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Louis Malle’s surreal drama, “Black Moon” originally released in 1974.

Originally published in April of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss the science-fiction survival thriller, “Robinson Crusoe on Mars” directed by Byron Haskins and originally released in 1964.

Originally published in April of 2014, Zach Betonte is joined by Gary Sargenson of Cinema Subculture to discuss the 2014 two-part release of Lars Von Trier’s “Nymphomaniac”.

Originally published in April of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss the Shochiku science-fiction horror film, “Goke, Body Snatcher from Hell” originally released in 1968 and directed by Hajime Sato.

Originally published in November of 2014, Zach Betonte is joined by Chris Vander Kaay, screenwriter and co-author of the horror film interview book, "The Anatomy Of Fear: Conversations With Cult Horror & Science-Fiction Filmmakers". In this brief conversation, Chris shares insight into the writing process, his collaboration with co-author, Kathleen Fernandez-Vander Kaay, and his upcoming film-related publications.

Originally published in December in 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss the 1980 holiday slasher film, “New Year’s Evil” to celebrate the upcoming occasion.

Originally published in November of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss the Australian post-punk drama, “Dogs in Space” originally released in 1986 and directed by Richard Lowenstein.

Originally published in June of 2016, Zach Betonte, Andrew Swope and Simone Barros discuss Jesus Franco’s erotic thriller, “Eugenie de Sade” originally released in 1973. The discussion contemplates Franco’s nostalgic re-appropriation of popular culture and how this implies meta-textual elements and question the film’s complicated depiction of feminine sexuality.

Originally published in November of 2016, Zach Betonte and Simone Barros are joined by Supporting Characters host, Bill Ackerman to discuss John Lee Hancock’s psychological horror film, “Let’s Scare Jessica to Death” originally released in 1971. The trio consider the film’s distinctive rhythms, ambiguous structure and its possible interpretations and the performative range of Zohra Lampert as the titular character.

Originally published in October of 2016, this Hallow’s Eve, the Film Jive tomb is re-opened with another creaking cacophony of murderous disharmony and echoes of the fantastique with the “Soundtrack of Terror Vol. II”. Film Jive contributors Simone Barros, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope welcome fellow trick or treaters; Bill Ackerman, Regina Barry, Philip Brubaker, Rooney Elmi, Veronica Fitzpatrick, Kurtiss Hare, Lee Howard, Dr. Russ Hunter, Jim Laczkowski, Michelle Clifford, Alison Lang, Jasper Lee, C.J. Lines, Michael Mackenzie, Patrick Ripoll, Fanta Sylla, Tenebrous Kate, and Patrick K. Walsh to assemble a revolving playlist of blood-stained sounds that will leave your ears in a severed state. So audiophiles, sit back (but remain upright) and allow the most horrific sounds of cinema to disquiet your nerves. Happy Halloween!

Originally published in August of 2016, Zach Betonte and Simone Barros are joined by Jim Laczkowski, host of the Director’s Club and Voices and Visions podcasts to discuss Charlie Kaufman’s “Synecdoche, New York” originally released in 2008. The discussion considers Kaufman’s use of filmic space and architecture, the emotional effect of viewing a character’s ongoing crisis of self and question whether the film is of the meta-realist or magical-realist tradition.

Originally published in June of 2016, Zach Betonte, Andrew Swope and Simone Barros discuss Jean Cocteau’s dreamscape, “La Belle et la Bête” originally released in 1946. The discussion elaborates on how Cocteau’s avant-garde theatre background informs his cinematic practice, how objectification may or may not augment the narrative’s reality and the similarities between the aesthetics of Cocteau and Maya Deren.

Originally published in November of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Peter Yates’ science-fiction fantasy epic, “Krull” originally released in 1993 by Columbia Pictures.

Originally published in June of 2016, Zach Betonte, Andrew Swope and Simone Barros discuss Joseph Losey’s psychodrama, “Accident” originally released in 1967. The trio inquire about the role of subjective memory in relation to the narrative trajectory, the presence of animals throughout and its implications, and question whether the camera objectifies or empowers its female protagonists.

Originally published in May of 2015, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope discuss Lucio Fulci’s spandex slasher film, “Murder Rock” originally released in 1984. The discussion elaborates on Fulci’s relationship to 1980’s American popular culture, the irrational character motivations, and how Fulci’s production restrictions enhance the formal atmosphere of his films.

Originally published in February of 2015, Zach Betonte and Gary Sargenson discuss François Truffaut’s coming of age drama, “Two English Girls”. The discussion details the film’s portrayal of unrequited love, it’s continuity with Truffaut’s earlier film, “Jules and Jim” and how Truffaut may be the most conservative conspirator of the French Nouvelle Vague.

Originally published in January of 2015, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope share their personal “Best of 2014” lists and comment on the year ahead in cinema.

Originally published in December of 2014, Zach Betonte and Andrew Swope exchange Christmas gifts while indulging in glass of hot Dr. Pepper followed by a discussion of what they each received.

Originally published in January of 2015, Zach Betonte is joined by former Film Jive co-host, Nick Wheatley to discuss the third and (hopefully) final film in the trilogy, “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies”.

This is the end!  (Don't worry, I didn't play The Doors in this episode). Well, no of course it isn't actually the end.  But this is the last episode where I officially host.  Fear not, there will be bonus episodes and I’ll be guesting from time to time throughout the year.  Give all your support to Al & Brad when they begin in three weeks on the Danny Boyle episode.  Of course, this is the year-end spectacular for 2016 and it should come as no surprise that it’s 4 hours long.  I enlisted the help of two great friends of mine to contribute their thoughts on the year that was, as well as sharing their favorite films of 2016.  Supporting Characters’ very own Bill Ackerman as well as Film Jive co-host Zach Betonte expand with me in great detail about memorable moments in film from the year that was!  We also continue the tradition of sub-categories, listener & past guest contributions, 2016 favorites from the fans, and so much more!  Obviously, it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t begin with an introduction and a farewell.  I’ll miss hosting, but I will continue to be behind-the-scenes every step of the way.  It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege hosting this show, and you can always find me on either the Now Playing Network or at Voices & Visions - Jim 00:00 - 09:18 - Introduction / Farewell 09:19 - 36:42 -  Overall Thoughts On 2016 36:43 - 01:45:50 - Sub-Categories (Best Actress, etc.) 01:45:51 - 01:52:10 - Regina & Andrew’s Lists! 01:52:11 - 02:26:16 - Numbers #25 - #11 02:26:17 - 02:29:14 - More Listener Lists! 02:29:15 - 03:57:37 - Our Top Ten Favorite Films Of 2016 03:57:38 - 04:03:45 - Final Round Of Listener Lists 04:03:46 - 04:09:30 - Outro / Final Parody Song For our complete lists, photos and show notes go to: http://www.directorsclubpodcast.com/blog/favorites2016

Merry New Year and Happy Christmas to all.  What I have prepared for you is a gift that I will call the "Royal Sampler Volume One."  It contains short clips from all the podcasts featured at The Now Playing Network, as well as extended highlights from Supporting Characters & Director's Club from over the years.  You also get a brief glimpse into some of my interviewing skills with various guests over the years.  There's also some kind of unusual collage towards the end.  This is a special episode, highlighting the talented folks of NPN for the first half, and then highlighting some of the better moments from the recent wave of Director's Club episodes.  The next episode will likely be released on January 9th, which will be The Best of 2016 featuring Bill Ackerman and Zach Betonte.  This means you have until January 7th to get your top ten lists in so I can read some during our recording!  directorsclubpodcast@gmail.com Thank you again for listening to this pinata of audio treats that will hopefully get you through your commute home for Christmas.  See you next year and stay tuned for some exciting changes to come 00:00 – 07:24 – Introduction 07:25 – 12:48 – Vinyl Emergency Excerpt 12:49 – 19:50 – Fresh Perspective Excerpt 19:51 – 26:27 - Movie Madness Excerpt 26:28 – 33:23 - Tracks of The Damned Excerpt 33:24 – 01:44:00 - Supporting Characters Highlight Reel 01:44:01 – 01:54:50 - Director’s Club Highlight Reel Part One 01:54:51 – 02:16:53 - Interview Excerpts with Stephen Tobolowsky, Keith Gordon, Allan Moyle, John McNaughton, Rachel Grimes, Karrie Hopper 02:16:54 – 02:32:21 - Director’s Club Recent Guest Highlights 02:32:22 – 02:50:32 - ??? Check out the podcasts: http://nowplayingnetwork.net Check out my new podcast: http://voicesvisions.net

We are back with an official episode at last, this time with two guests.  Nat Almirall and returning champion Zach Betonte are joining us for the long awaited episode on surrealist director David Lynch.  Included are discussions around most of his films, but the two main reviews include the neo-noir BLUE VELVET and his more recent critical darling MULHOLLAND DRIVE.  Patrick gives it his all during the what we watched segment with another lightning round edition, Nat brings up LOL, AMERICAN SPLENDOR, THE GREAT GATSBY, Zach went to the museum of contemporary art for a unique movie-watching experience with THE PARADISE INSTITUTE, and Jim reveals his favorite movie of 2013 thus far with STORIES WE TELL.0:00 – 5:25– Introduction / In-house business5:26 – 6:24– What We Watched This Week Song6:25 – 17:19 – What Nat Watched This Week17:20 – 27:37 – What Zach Watched This Week27:38 - 37:50 - What Jim Watched This Week37:51 - 49:59 - What Patrick Watched This Week50:00 - 51:28 - David Lynch Song51:29 – 52:56– Director Introduction52:57 – 1:34:34 – Blue Velvet Review1:34:35– 2:29:11 – Mulholland Drive Review / Other Lynch Movies2:29:12 – 2:34:47 –  Top 3 Haneke Films / OutroIn two weeks, Jim will be on vacation while Patrick records an episode on director Alfonso Cuaron with returning guest Brian Tallerico.  Please be sure to leave us a voicemail to play on the show at 224-366-9528. If you’re a movie blogger/podcaster and would like a guest spot on the show to talk about a filmmaker whose work you admire. Thanks again for listening and be sure to check out our updated upcoming schedule in the sidebar to see which directors we’ll be talking about soon! Questions are always welcome via email: directorsclubpodcast@gmail.com

Film Jive co-host Zach Betonte joins us to talk about the remarkably influential independent filmmaker John Cassavetes.  We discuss his most critically lauded film, A WOMAN UNDER THE INFLUENCE, as well as his foray into the Mafia crime genre, THE KILLING OF A CHINESE BOOKIE.  In addition, Zach revisits THE ROAD WARRIOR, Jim discusses STOKER, and PATRICK talks about his love of horror fan fiction and Troma films. 0:00 – 8:32 – Introduction / In-house business 8:33 – 9:02 – What We Watched This Week Song 9:03 – 19:50 – What Zach Watched This Week 19:51 – 29:29 – What Jim Watched This Week 29:30 – 47:13 – What Patrick Watched This Week 47:14 – 48:44 – John Cassavetes Song 48:45 – 50:49 – Director Introduction 50:50 – 1:25:30 – A Woman Under The Influence Review 1:25:31 – 1:49:30 – The Killing Of A Chinese Bookie Review 1:49:31 – 2:08:43 – Other Cassavetes Movies We Love 2:08:44 – 2:15:33 –  Top 3 Cassavetes Films / Outro In two weeks, we might have a guest (?) who will join us to talk about Claire Denis.  Please be sure to leave us a voicemail with your list to play on the show as well at 224-366-9528. If you’re a movie blogger/podcaster and would like a guest spot on the show to talk about a filmmaker whose work you admire. Thanks again for listening and be sure to check out our updated upcoming schedule in the sidebar to see which directors we’ll be talking about soon!  Questions, comments and top ten lists are always welcome via email: directorsclubpodcast@gmail.com

The show you've all been waiting for!  Our epic three and a half hour episode covering our favorite movies of 2012 and more.  There will also be a follow up anniversary episode for Episode 50, featuring clips and highlights from the past two years of podcasting so keep your eyes open for Part 2 - The Clip Show.   Details for this episode are highlighted below.  Thanks to everyone who participated in this episode and submitted a list either via voicemail or email.  00:00 – 3:30 – Jim’s Favorite Song of 2012 / Introduction 3:30 – 44:15 – Ancillary Awards / Sub-Categories / Honorable Mentions 44:16 – 1:14:33 – Andrew James’ list, Our choices #10-9 1:14:34 – 1:38:05 – Gabe Powers’ list, Our choices #8-7 1:38:06 – 2:08:10 –  Jason Cartagena’s list, Our choices #6-5 2:08:11 – 2:44:48 – Rene Rangal’s list, Our choices #4-3 2:44:49 – 3:01:15 – Zach Betonte’s list, Emails from listeners / past guests 3:01:16 – 3:38:30 – Our choices #2-1 3:38:31 – 3:42:47 – Outro / Patrick’s Favorite Song of 2012

Jay Cheel of Film Junk, Kurt Halfyard of Row Three's Cinecast, and Zach Betonte of Film Jive join me in a quick 90-minute conversation about the two recently released films COMPLIANCE and THE IMPOSTER, both of which I think are two of the year's best.  I have a couple of reservations about the latter which are brought up, but most of the debates surround the former.  Overall you can expect a roundtable-style discussion as we examine two very interesting films that tackle true life stories about liars and manipulation.  COMPLIANCE fictionalizes a real-life event that is shocking and stranger than fiction, and for some, this fictionalized approach doesn’t entirely work.  THE IMPOSTER has been highly praised for its style and taut thriller-like execution (and rightfully so), and I mention a couple of things that lead to some questions surrounding documentary ethics and the way we perceive the events overall. For the most part, the conversation surrounds the idea of director intention and the way both stories are presented in distinctively challenging ways that spark some thought-provoking ideas about the way we watch movies based on true events.  Since I realize both of these films are in limited release at the moment, I will promote this episode again once these two titles are out on DVD & Blu-Ray so you can listen to the discussion and maybe send us your thoughts/comments once you've had a chance to catch up with these movies, and I really hope that you do .  Both of these movies are conversation-stimulators in the best way, and I couldn't have been happier that these three guests complied and came on the show for a lively bit of rambling.  We will return to the regular format next week with Patrick as well, when guest Damon Houx joins us to talk about the great Wong Kar-Wai.  - JimEmail us:  directorsclubpodcast@gmail.comWebsite:  http://directorsclubpodcast.com