Blank Check with Griffin & David Ella McCay with Richard Lawson
Dec 14, 2025
Richard Lawson, a film critic and writer, joins to discuss the quirky and complex film 'Ella McKay' by James L. Brooks. They dive into themes of political scandals and media narratives, reflecting on the film's rarity in today’s cinemas. The conversation explores the chaotic plot dynamics, including a governor's unexpected rise and family tensions, while noting the film's nostalgic charm despite its flaws. Lawson also teases his new podcast, 'Critical Darlings,' promising more insights into film culture.
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Brooks' Throwback Cinema
- James L. Brooks' late-career films feel like a rare throwback to studio dramedies that center character over spectacle.
- That nostalgia makes Ella McKay feel both unusual and oddly anachronistic in today's theatrical landscape.
From Recaps To Premiere Party
- Richard Lawson described launching a newsletter called Premiere Party after leaving Vanity Fair and recap work gave him his career start.
- He invites listeners to subscribe for recaps and film essays, connecting his past recap success to his new project.
Streamline The Script Before Shooting
- If a screenplay contains many big ideas, streamline early: cut or fully develop threads before shooting.
- Test audiences and reshoots can't reliably fix foundational focus issues established in the script.
