The Business

With Netflix’s bombshell move to acquire Warner Bros. still reverberating through the town, Paramount has gone fully hostile–bypassing Warner leadership and taking its case straight to shareholders. Matt Belloni and Lucas Shaw break down the latest maneuvering in a saga that seems to sprout new twists by the day. Also, with Kim Masters sidelined by a bug this week, Belloni presents a few bonus stories from Masters's recent conversations: Wake Up Dead Man writer-director Rian Johnson and producer Ram Bergman talk about the green room they devised for the first Knives Out–a space that became so essential to the ensemble’s chemistry that trailers sat mostly empty. And Stranger Things executive producer Shawn Levy explains why, despite the runaway success of Deadpool & Wolverine, he’s not sprinting toward a sequel just yet.

Celine Song, a talented writer-director known for her acclaimed films like Past Lives, shares insights on her latest rom-com Materialists. She discusses how her experience as a New York matchmaker informed the film's exploration of love and commodification. Song reflects on the privilege of partnering with A24 for theatrical releases and the influence of streaming on storytelling. She also connects modern dating dynamics to 19th-century marriage markets, emphasizing that love remains a complex, economic transaction.

Rian Johnson, the creative mind behind hits like Knives Out, teams up with producer Ram Bergman for an insightful discussion. Rian shares his unique writing process for Wake Up Dead Man, revealing why it felt personally resonant and how he navigates panic during creativity. Ram explains their self-financing strategy for films to retain creative control and the advantages of Netflix's supportive approach. They also explore the contrasting impacts of streaming versus theatrical releases, and Rian's experiences balancing multiple projects.

Shawn Levy, a filmmaker known for his work on Stranger Things and Deadpool, shares insights from the set of his upcoming Star Wars film. He discusses the bittersweet nature of the industry's current contraction, while detailing Netflix's decision for a limited theatrical release of the Stranger Things finale. Levy highlights the familial atmosphere on set and the cinematic quality of the show. He also reflects on his creative freedom with Starfighter, the evolution of Deadpool and Wolverine, and the success of standalone films like Free Guy.

Judd Apatow, renowned writer-director-producer, dives into his memoir, *Comedy Nerd*, sharing his evolution from a stand-up-obsessed youth to a major comedy influencer. He reminisces about interviewing comedy legends in high school and reading a scathing letter he penned to Steve Martin at age twelve. Apatow reflects on the changing landscape of comedy films, the challenges of breaking new talent like *Superbad*, and his exciting upcoming projects, including a Mel Brooks documentary. His insights reveal the heart and humor behind a legendary career.

Join Andrew Jarecki and Charlotte Kaufman, documentary filmmakers behind The Alabama Solution, as they uncover the shocking realities of Alabama's prisons. Their journey began with a warden's invitation to film a religious revival, leading to harrowing testimonies from inmates about abuse and murder. They discuss the dangers faced by prisoners, the surprising role of smuggled cell phones in documenting abuses, and the film's profound impact, sparking protests and legislative attention. A compelling look into a crisis that demands awareness!

In this engaging talk, Brad Falchuk, acclaimed producer behind hits like Glee, shares insights on his Netflix series, Famous Last Words. He dives into the unique Danish format that inspires deeply personal conversations and explains how he builds trust with his guests. Living with dyslexia, Falchuk reveals how it has shaped his storytelling abilities. He also reflects on the transition from cable to streaming, discussing the balance between creative integrity and data-driven decisions. Media critic Eric Deggans facilitates this thought-provoking dialogue.

In this discussion, Lucas Shaw, Chair of the Media and Entertainment Group at Bloomberg News, shares insights on Netflix's Q3 performance and explores the speculative market regarding its interest in Warner Bros. Meanwhile, Kelly Reichardt, a veteran independent filmmaker noted for her unique approach, reveals her journey from financing her first film with credit cards to advocating for theatrical releases. The conversation touches on the industry's changing dynamics and why meaningful projects, rather than blockbusters, drive her creative passion.

Aziz Ansari, comedian and filmmaker, shares insights from his directorial debut, Good Fortune, following the tumultuous shutdown of Being Mortal. He discusses the challenges he faced, including production delays from guild strikes and an on-set injury to Keanu Reeves. Aziz also reflects on the ethics of accepting Saudi money in Hollywood while addressing his controversial act at the Riyadh Comedy Festival. With a focus on resilience, he emphasizes his journey and the importance of reviving theatrical comedies.

Barry Avrich, a documentary filmmaker known for his compelling storytelling, teams up with Noam Tibon, a retired Israeli general who risked his life to rescue his family during the October 7 attack. They discuss the creation of the film The Road Between Us, facing political controversy at the Toronto Film Festival, and how Gali, Noam's wife, joined the harrowing mission. Noam shares moral dilemmas faced while helping others en route, while Barry reflects on the film's perspective on family amidst turmoil and the respectful use of sensitive footage.