Alex Gibney, the director of the documentary Wise Guy, explores the behind-the-scenes journey of creating The Sopranos. He discusses the challenges artists face in an undervalued industry and reflects on the shifting landscape of documentary filmmaking. Gibney emphasizes the tension between artistic integrity and commercial pressures, sharing insights on the significance of genuine storytelling. The conversation also touches on the evolution of narrative in television, driven by the desire for meaningful artistic expression against a backdrop of industry constraints.

Our Here’s the Thing Summer Staff Picks series continues, featuring our favorite episodes from the archives. This week, we revisit Alec’s interviews with two great American storytellers, Ira Glass and Alex Gibney.  Ira Glass has been the host and creative force of WBEZ’s This American Life since 1995. The public radio personality revolutionized nonfiction storytelling by using a voice that's personable, modest, and emotionally engaged. Alec sat down with Ira Glass in 2014 to compare notes on interviewing, the afterlife, and finding one’s vocal style.  Alex Gibney is one of the most respected and prolific documentary filmmakers in history. His stories feature strong characters and propulsive narratives that often expose malfeasance or incompetency. In this 2021 conversation, Alex Gibney speaks with Alec about going up against powerful organizations, shifting from Japanese literature to film and the collaborators that have helped him grow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stuart Stevens, a legendary campaign manager and author, offers sharp insights on the current state of American democracy. Award-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney dives into his documentary 'The Bibi Files,' revealing stunning parallels between Trump and Netanyahu. They discuss the implications of corruption in politics and the psychological traits of influential leaders. Together, they reflect on the need for political accountability and the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement in a shifting landscape.

In a gripping discussion, Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney dives into his latest work, The Bibi Files, which unveils stunning police footage of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial. He explores the psychological drivers behind political misconduct, drawing parallels to other notorious leaders. The conversation delves deep into the fallout of Netanyahu’s actions on regional stability and the growing societal divisions in Israel. Gibney also reflects on the broader implications of corruption and the fight for power amidst international scrutiny.

Jo Koy is a famous stand-up comedian known for his energetic performances, while Alex Gibney is a celebrated documentary filmmaker acclaimed for his insightful works. They delve into the emotional rollercoaster of sports fandom, discussing the scapegoating fans face during losses. They also tackle the ethics of lobbying and the influence of money in politics, advocating for reforms to protect democracy. The conversation is interspersed with playful banter, touching on quirky fast food marketing and the overlaps between music and comedy.