The Big Picture

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.

Colman Domingo, a talented actor known for his roles in acclaimed dramas, joins the discussion about his stirring performance in 'Sing Sing,' a film that highlights the transformative power of theater for incarcerated men. They explore the film's unique distribution strategy and the authentic storytelling it presents. The conversation also contrasts 'Sing Sing' with the less favorable adaptation of 'It Ends With Us,' revealing the complexities of adapting romance literature for the screen.

The hosts dive into the latest MCU news and the excitement around the fall festival landscape. They discuss Shyamalan's latest thriller, 'Trap,' exploring its unique blend of psychological tension and comedy. There's also a lighthearted take on the cultural impact of nostalgic revivals and a deep dive into the realm of musical biopics. Celebrity anecdotes and personal stories add flair, while reflections on fame and iconic performances spark thoughtful conversation on modern Hollywood.

Chris Ryan, a film analyst and pop culture enthusiast, joins the discussion to celebrate the centennial of Sidney Lumet, a legendary American director. They delve into Lumet's unique storytelling approach, exploring how his East Coast roots influenced his cinematic vision. The conversation highlights essential films like 'Serpico' and 'Network,' emphasizing themes of morality and integrity. Chris and the hosts share personal favorites while reflecting on Lumet's enduring impact on film and his ability to tackle complex social issues with emotional depth.