Revisionist History

In this conversation with M. Night Shyamalan, the acclaimed filmmaker behind thrillers like "The Sixth Sense," he reveals the haunting backstory behind his long-lost screenplay, "Labor of Love." Shyamalan reflects on the challenges of balancing personal relationships with artistic expression, and shares insights on the emotional depth woven into his storytelling. He discusses his early career struggles, the impact of grief on creativity, and the nostalgic journey of navigating missed opportunities in filmmaking. It's a fascinating glimpse into the heart of a creative mind.

Patty Jenkins, acclaimed director of "Wonder Woman" and "Monster," shares intriguing insights from her creative journey. She reveals her ambition to make an R-rated fairy tale about a dog named Bandit, intended to push boundaries in filmmaking and animal performances. Jenkins discusses the challenges of engaging themes of redemption and the struggles that female filmmakers face within Hollywood. She also candidly reflects on how personal loss and societal perceptions inform her storytelling, crafting narratives that resonate deeply.

In this engaging discussion, Academy Award-winning screenwriter Charles Randolph, known for hits like "The Big Short" and "Bombshell," tackles the challenges of adapting true stories for the screen. He shares insights on balancing authenticity with dramatic storytelling, especially regarding the complex racial themes in his latest project, "The Birthday Party." Randolph provides a masterclass on navigating the minefields of screenwriting, including the emotional conflicts his characters face and the importance of representation in film.

Isaac Adamson, a talented screenwriter known for his biopic 'Bubbles,' dives deep into the wild ride of creating a film about Michael Jackson's pet chimpanzee. He shares the rollercoaster of development hell, from Netflix's initial interest to the project’s unraveling. The conversation touches on Bubbles' tragicomic existence, creative challenges, and Michael’s complex legacy. Adamson also offers a glimpse into adapting Bubbles' perspective amidst public scrutiny, reflecting the struggles faced by artists telling poignant stories.

Gary Goldman, the mastermind behind "Total Recall," teams up with Angus Fletcher, a story science guru, to unpack the struggles of adapting Philip K. Dick’s "Variable Man." They share wild tales of development hell, where even big names balked at the plot twists. The duo discusses how early AI attempts hindered their script's potential and explore the tension between human creativity and technological conformity. Their insights highlight the evolving landscape of storytelling in Hollywood, blending nostalgia with a modern twist.

Stephen Gaghan, an Academy Award-winning screenwriter celebrated for Traffic and Syriana, dives into the whirlwind of Hollywood's development scene. He recalls pitching a vampire love story, highlights the complexities of adapting Blink, and shares the emotional toll of industry pressures. Gaghan offers poignant memories from bidding wars and the heartbreak of lost collaborations, particularly reflecting on Heath Ledger's impact. Through tales of ambition and personal struggles, he captures the bittersweet journey of bringing stories to life in film.

Dive into the murky waters of Hollywood as untold tales of unproduced scripts unfold. Discover a mind-bending Philip K. Dick adaptation too daring for studios, and a quirky biopic about an exotic pet. Explore the comedic pitfalls of adapting a bestselling book, alongside personal anecdotes that shine a light on the creative chaos of Development Hell. This journey blends humor with heartfelt storytelling, revealing the trials faced by those chasing cinematic dreams.

Nate Berkus, an iconic interior designer known for his unique style and appearances on Oprah, chats with Malcolm Gladwell. They dive into how travel shapes their design philosophy, sharing nostalgic tales from Paris to family influences. The duo uncovers the artistry behind sourcing for authenticity and how hotel experiences can elevate narratives. They also reflect on the storytelling in shows like 'Ozark' and discuss how home offers solace during melancholy, all while embracing the lively atmosphere of New York City.

Heather Nelson, Chief Information Officer at Boston Children's Hospital, and Callie Field, President at T-Mobile Business Group, dive into the transformative power of 5G technology. They discuss how digital advancements are reshaping healthcare and retail, empowering patients with smart devices and enhancing customer experiences. The conversation highlights the evolving role of IT departments and the importance of accessibility in driving business success. They also touch on the challenges of ensuring secure digital connections in healthcare settings.

George and Anne Rohrbacher, farmers and co-creators of 'The Farming Game,' share their inspiring journey from the brink of losing everything during the 1970s farm crisis to channeling their experiences into a board game. They delve into how their love story intertwines with farming, reflecting themes of resilience and sustainability. The podcast highlights the challenges faced by farmers, the creation process of their game, and the profound life lessons embedded in gameplay, showcasing how games can bridge personal struggles with broader societal issues.