The podcast delves into Disney's rethinking of diversity initiatives amidst political changes, setting the stage for a larger conversation on corporate responsibility. Co-directors Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham share the behind-the-scenes magic of claymation in their latest film, revealing the unique challenges of animating even still characters like Feathers McGraw. They discuss blending traditional techniques with modern technology, emphasizing the nostalgia and creativity behind Wallace and Gromit.

Join a talented songwriting duo as they share their unique partnership with filmmaker Jacques Audiard on the musical 'Emilia Pérez.' Discover the emotional power of music in storytelling and how they seamlessly integrated songs into the narrative. They delve into the complexities of songwriting, exploring the importance of language choices and the balance between live performances and pre-recorded tracks. Get insights into their creative process and a glimpse of the pivotal song that anchored their project.

The discussion begins with the FCC's release of a controversial interview transcript involving Kamala Harris, shedding light on media battles during election seasons. Jesse Eisenberg shares insights on his Oscar-nominated film, A Real Pain, where he creatively blends humor and Holocaust themes through the journey of two cousins. They delve into the emotional complexities of intergenerational trauma and the significance of historical sites, emphasizing the delicate balance between honoring the past and navigating contemporary narratives.

Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star in an ad asking Texas legislators to create incentives for productions to shoot in their home state. What’s behind the decision to drop the video, which pulls no punches against Hollywood, as Los Angeles seeks to rebuild after the devastating fires? Kim Masters and Matt Belloni investigate.   Plus, Masters speaks to producer Marc Platt about his Oscar nominated film, Wicked. Platt shares how his career as an entertainment lawyer led to running studios like Orion Pictures, Tristar, and Universal Pictures. He also talks about producing the original broadway production of Wicked, and the long journey that led to him hiring Jon M. Chu to direct the show’s film adaptation.  

Scott Feinberg, Executive Editor of Awards at The Hollywood Reporter, dissects the latest Oscar nominations with keen insight. He discusses the surprises in this year's nominees and how the Academy is shifting towards more inclusivity. The conversation also touches on Netflix's remarkable 19 million new subscribers and its market strategy, including potential mergers in the streaming landscape. Feinberg explores the implications of AI on Hollywood and how it could change the future of performances at prestigious award shows.

Greg Kwedar, director of the film 'Sing Sing,' shares insights on his innovative pay equity model, ensuring all cast and crew earn the same daily rate. He emphasizes the importance of equity in the film industry and the impact of hiring formerly incarcerated actors. The conversation also touches on Hollywood's frustrations with LA Mayor Karen Bass and the need for revitalization in film production. Tune in for a critical look at how politics, social equity, and the entertainment industry are interlinked in today's landscape.

Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold, husband-and-wife duo and talented filmmakers, dive into their ambitious project 'The Brutalist.' They discuss the seven-year journey to bring the film to life, including making a bold choice with its three-and-a-half-hour runtime and intermission. The couple shares personal reflections on society and current political climates, including thoughts on Trump's approach to brutalist architecture. They also touch on the challenges of weaving meaningful narratives in today's fast-paced, streaming-centric film industry.

The feud between Blake Lively and It Ends with Us director Justin Baldoni continues to unfold. What's going on here? Kim Masters and Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw investigate.Plus, Masters speaks to Nosferatu writer-director Robert Eggers and Focus Features chairman Peter Kujawski. The pair talk about their long partnership, which spans the director's entire career. Eggers also talks about winning over seasoned crews who have years more experience than he does, and why a little humor goes a long way in a movie like Nosferatu.

As 2024 comes to an end, we want to thank you, our listeners! We asked you to send us your burning questions about the industry, and you delivered – from around the world. Kim Masters and Matt Belloni dish it out over everything from the mind numbing amount of trailers before movies, to the surprising reason behind FYC billboards – we’re looking at you, studio execs. Did we answer your question in our first ever listener mailbag? Tune in to find out!

As 2024 comes to an end, we want to thank you, our listeners! We asked you to send us your burning questions about the industry, and you delivered – from around the world. Kim Masters and Matt Belloni dish it out over everything from the mind numbing amount of trailers before movies, to the surprising reason behind FYC billboards – we’re looking at you, studio execs. Did we answer your question in our first ever listener mailbag? Tune in to find out!