The Big Picture

Chris Ryan, a film writer and podcaster at The Ringer, joins independent filmmaker Jeremy Saulnier, known for his suspenseful films like Blue Ruin. They dive into the thrilling realm of 'Rebel Ridge,' discussing its gripping narrative and impressive performances. The duo coins the term 'Garbage Revenge' to describe a quirky subgenre of vengeance films. Saulnier also shares insights into his creative process, the challenges of filmmaking, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Expect humor and keen observations on revenge narratives!

Join Van Lathan, co-host of 'Higher Learning' and 'Midnight Boys,' as he dives into the quirky world of 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.' They discuss Michael Keaton’s nostalgic return, the challenges of sequels, and the intriguing addition of Jenna Ortega. The trio reflects on Tim Burton's early successes and later drops, sharing their top five favorite films that showcase his unique blend of whimsy and horror. Lathan's insights and personal anecdotes make for a delightful exploration of legacy, creativity, and the enduring impact of beloved stories.

Witness the buzz from the Telluride Film Festival as standout films like 'Anora' and the Trump biopic 'The Apprentice' spark excitement. Delve into the evolving narrative landscapes with discussions on diverse storytelling and emotional performances. The hosts share insights on festival experiences, anticipated fall films, and the competitive awards race. Humorous anecdotes about celebrity culture and grooming add a light touch, while speculations on potential Oscar nominations keep the conversation lively.

Griffin Newman, a Michael Keaton superfan and co-host of the Blank Check Podcast, joins to discuss the iconic actor's filmography as they curate Keaton's movie Mount Rushmore ahead of 'Beetlejuice's' release. Jason Schwartzman, known for his diverse roles, and Nathan Silver, the director of 'Between the Temples,' dive into the film's unique comedic style and production process. They explore Keaton's career evolution, his influence on Hollywood, and the challenges of capturing a specific tone in independent cinema.

JT Mollner, the director of 'Strange Darling,' discusses his journey from Sundance to his latest film. He shares insights about merging genres with audience expectations and the creative challenges behind filmmaking. They explore the unsettling family dynamics in his new film and the inspiration drawn from personal experiences, including growing up in a haunted attraction. Mollner also reflects on the emotional depth of storytelling through traditional film mediums, shedding light on the darker themes prevalent in contemporary cinema.

Explore the gripping fallout from the largest cyberattack in Hollywood history. Discover how Sony faced chaos and personal safety concerns after the hack. Dive into the tensions behind the controversial film 'The Interview' and the ethical challenges filmmakers encountered. Experience the emotional struggle of those affected as they navigated censorship debates and public scrutiny. Finally, reflect on the lasting changes in the industry and the impact of this incident on creative risk-taking and gender equity.

In a gripping narrative, listeners are taken through the aftermath of the Sony Pictures hack and the chaos that ensued. A public relations executive faces escalating tensions while promoting 'Annie,' amidst threats and media scrutiny. Discussions emerge on Hollywood's inequality, revealing employee dissatisfaction and the consequences of leaked emails. Ethical dilemmas haunt journalists as they navigate sensitive revelations. The podcast dives into the societal implications of a controversial film, linking it to national trauma and personal guilt.

In a gripping narrative, cyberterrorists unleash chaos on Sony Pictures in 2014, targeting the studio over the controversial film 'The Interview.' Employees arrive to find a menacing message that sets off an international incident. The discussion dives deep into how this hacking incident reshaped Hollywood, exposing issues of racism, gender pay disparity, and the fragile intersection of politics and entertainment. As internal chaos unfolds, the podcast reveals the larger implications of cybersecurity in today’s world.

Chris Ryan, an entertainment trend expert, and Fede Álvarez, the director of 'Alien: Romulus' and a franchise superfan, dive into the latest installment of the 'Alien' series. They discuss the film's homage to the original while embracing fresh horror elements and fan service. Álvarez shares his creative choices regarding practical effects and the emotional connection to the franchise. They also rank all nine films, revealing insights into the legacy and future of 'Alien,' including a potential new series that explores corporate dynamics and android technology.

Brian Raftery, a contributor at Ringer, discusses his upcoming miniseries on the Sony hack and its impact on Hollywood's digital narrative. Filmmaker Sean Wang shares insights into his coming-of-age film 'Dìdi' and achieving his first feature at just 29. They delve into Matt Damon's diverse filmography, exploring his evolution from early roles to iconic performances, and debate the significance of his work. The conversation highlights the balance between personal storytelling and industry expectations in today's filmmaking landscape.