Filmmaker Ed Zwick discusses the politics of studios and movie stars, including the era of high-end dramas, managing studios, the exploitation of test screenings, and handling difficult movie stars. They also explore the challenges of making unconventional movies, anecdotes about Julia Roberts and Matthew Broderick, the intense nature of the film industry, writing memoirs, and speculating on the poor reception of a movie.

Hollywood director, Ed Zwick, discusses his successful productions like Glory and The Last Samurai, as well as the challenges and lumps he took along the way. He also shares insights on mentorship in the industry and the importance of finding support outside of family. The podcast pays tribute to musician Mojo Nixon and touches on topics like the Occupy movement and film distribution.

Writer-director Ed Zwick shares lessons from his decades in Hollywood, including stories from the making of 'Glory' and his near direction of 'Shakespeare in Love'. The podcast also discusses surprises from Disney's Q1 earnings call and the potential impact of a new sports streaming app. They explore challenges faced in Hollywood, lack of originality, and means of production and storytelling in filmmaking.