The Business

J.T. Mollner, a writer-director celebrated for his film 'Strange Darling', teams up with producer Roy Lee to discuss their gripping cat-and-mouse thriller. They reveal the tumultuous production journey, including a shutdown just two days in and fierce pushback from Miramax executives. Mollner's fight for creative control led to him receiving final cut, culminating in a film that earned rave reviews, with Stephen King dubbing it a 'clever masterpiece'. They also touch on the chaotic Disney leadership dynamics during this time.

Maciek Hamela, a Warsaw-based filmmaker, shares powerful insights as he documents the harrowing journeys of Ukrainian refugees in his film, 'In The Rearview.' He reveals the challenges of navigating fuel shortages while providing aid, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian support. The discussion also touches on SAG-AFTRA members advocating for Pro-Palestine protection and the broader implications of Hollywood's response to global conflicts. Hamela emphasizes the importance of human stories over sensationalism in film, showcasing the resilience of those impacted by war.

Kim Masters and Matt Belloni examine the secret battle for succession among the family of billionaire Rupert Murdoch. They also take a look at a curious Wall Street Journal profile on Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro.  Plus, we revisit Masters’ conversation with writer Justin Kuritzkes about the rollout of his first screenplay, Challengers, now a full-fledged film directed by Luca Guadagnino. He talks about how the Zendaya-led project was inspired by a US Open match that eventually led to him becoming a tennis obsessive. And he shares how he and his wife Celine Song — who experienced a similar career whirlwind last year with her Oscar-nominated feature Past Lives — manage to keep their work separate from their relationship.

Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein, writers behind Pixar's smash hit Inside Out 2, delve into the film's journey and its importance in theatrical releases over streaming. They discuss the creative evolution of characters as Riley enters her teenage years and how Pixar’s culture has shifted post-John Lasseter. The duo reflects on the challenges of animating emotional resonance in modern storytelling and the growing focus on diversity and AI's role in creative processes. Their insights illuminate the ever-changing landscape of animated films.

In this lively discussion, Gary Oldman, a celebrated actor known for his diverse roles, shares insights into his performance in 'Slow Horses,' which earned nine Emmy nods. He discusses the challenges of character development and the evolving landscape of fame. Meanwhile, Edgar Bronfman Jr., a key player in the media world, talks about his bold bid for Paramount Studios, shaking up industry norms. The conversation blends Oldman's reflections on his illustrious career with Bronfman's perspective on the competitive media landscape.

Justin Simien, the creator of 'Dear White People', dives into the rich history of African American cinema with his new docuseries, 'Hollywood Black'. He highlights key figures like Oscar Micheaux and discusses the impact of Black narratives in film. NPR's Eric Deggans joins to unpack the challenges Black filmmakers face, including appropriation in Hollywood. Together, they explore the triumphs and struggles in representing Black culture authentically. Also, the chaos in Hollywood with Joaquin Phoenix's abrupt film exit and layoffs at Paramount adds to the tension of an evolving industry.

Kim Masters and Matt Beloni discuss Hollywood’s second quarter earnings reports. Disney turned an early profit for streaming service ESPN+, but amusement park attendance still worried Wall Street. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. Discovery cites struggling TV business for $9 Billion loss.  Plus, Kim Masters speaks with filmmaker Greg Kwedar about his new film “Sing Sing.” Everyone involved in the production was paid the same daily rate, a model that Kwedar hopes could bring more parity to film sets. The movie stars Colman Domingo as an wrongly-convicted man staging a play inside the real Sing Sing. Much of the cast includes formerly incarcerated actors who play versions of themselves.

Jordan Klepper, a comedic force from The Daily Show, dives into the surreal landscape of political satire. He shares experiences from MAGA rallies, where he now travels with heightened security, reflecting on the dangers of modern journalism. Klepper discusses the evolution of late-night television and the need for accountability in political commentary. He also analyzes the shift in Apple TV+'s strategy amid stiff competition while revealing the challenges of producing impactful content in this chaotic climate.

The podcast discusses the delay of 'Euphoria' season three, the challenges facing the television industry, the impact of Emmy nominations, the success of 'Shogun' adaptation, and the evolving landscape of streaming services in Hollywood.

The 2024 Emmy nominations are here, with lots of record-breaking nods and surprises to unpack — along with the strategy behind Disney’s acquisition of FX. What does the success of Shōgun and The Bear say about streaming? And does a new Bank of America report on Warner Bros. Discovery suggest… “unbundling”? Kim Masters and Matt Belloni break it down.  Plus, in honor of Shōgun’s 25(!) Emmy nominations, Masters revisits her conversation with creators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo. The series made history this week with its Emmy nomination for Outstanding Drama, becoming only the second non-English show ever considered. The husband-and-wife creative team talk about how they’ve been granted more control writing for television over feature films, and explain why FX took the risk on their very expensive, and heavily subtitled, period epic.