Mike Leigh, the acclaimed British film director known for his honest portrayals of working-class life, shares his insights on filmmaking. He discusses the misconceptions around his work and the evolution of his collaborative methods with actors. Leigh reflects on the importance of realism versus naturalism, revealing behind-the-scenes stories from celebrated films like 'Secrets and Lies' and his latest, 'Hard Truths.' The conversation emphasizes the emotional nuances in storytelling and the tragicomic essence that defines his unique cinematic voice.

Adrien Brody, the Oscar-winning actor famed for his roles in The Pianist and Midnight in Paris, shares insights on his newest film, The Brutalist, which draws deeply from his family's immigrant history. He reflects on the whirlwind of winning the Best Actor Oscar at a young age and the emotional toll it took. Additionally, Adrien discusses his joy in collaborating with Wes Anderson, exploring how the camaraderie on set contrasts with the solitary challenges of acting.

Dive into a treasure trove of candid insights as Marc responds to listener questions. He shares thoughts on icons like Adam Sandler and Taylor Swift, while reflecting on his own journey with sobriety and past relapses. Discover humorous anecdotes about household organization, the thrill of unearthing unique finds at Goodwill, and the complexities of change. Marc tackles the nuanced relationship between comedy and authenticity, blending serious topics with lighthearted moments. It's an engaging blend of self-reflection, humor, and intimate storytelling.

Ron Livingston, celebrated for roles in Office Space and Swingers, shares candid stories about his upbringing in Iowa and how the trajectory of his character in Swingers mirrors his own experiences. He discusses the gradual rise of Office Space to classic status and how Sex and the City refined his wardrobe. The two explore the journey through the entertainment scene, touching on the authenticity in portraying sober characters and the importance of community within creativity. It's a relaxed and insightful conversation between two guys with no promotional agenda.

Brendan McDonald, Marc Maron's producer and business partner, joins the conversation to reflect on WTF's journey. They dive deep into the nostalgia of the Luna Lounge and the evolution of comedy venues. Personal struggles with relationships and sobriety reveal poignant life lessons. The duo also discusses navigating the tumultuous world of radio and the changing media landscape. They share how early sponsorship challenges sparked creativity, leading to the podcast's success and their deeper connection with audiences.

Bruce Vilanch, an Emmy-winning writer famed for his work on the Oscars, shares tales from his rich career. He reminisces about writing jokes for comedy legends like Bette Midler and Joan Rivers. The conversation dives into the art of tailoring humor to various voices and the behind-the-scenes drama of iconic TV specials. Vilanch also reflects on his experiences with gay activism and the changing landscape of awards shows, blending humor and insight into the evolution of comedy and entertainment.

In this engaging conversation, Australian filmmaker Justin Kurzel dives into his fascination with outlaws and societal upheaval. He shares insights on his latest film, 'The Order', and the significance of casting Marc in a pivotal role. Justin discusses the challenges of storytelling in film, particularly around complex characters and their real-life inspirations. The dialogue also touches on the dark landscapes of Australian cinema, exploring themes of ambition and the legacy of figures like Ned Kelly. Justin's passion for nuanced narratives shines through.

Bobbi Althoff, a comedian and podcaster known for her quirky TikTok interviews, discusses her unique rise to fame, including a key moment with Drake. She shares her experiences growing up in a chaotic environment and the challenges of motherhood that fueled her determination. The conversation touches on the mental health toll of social media and the evolving landscape of digital fame. Bobbi also reflects on the highs and lows of the content creation grind, revealing the delicate balance between authenticity and the pressures of public scrutiny.

Andy Blitz, a writer and comedian known for his work on Conan and Master of None, shares his colorful journey through the New York City comedy scene. He reflects on his early days at Luna Lounge and the magic of show business that first drew him in. Blitz opens up about mental health challenges, including his struggles with depression and ADHD while navigating an unpredictable industry. He also humorously discusses the evolution of late-night television and the ups and downs of pitching new projects, blending nostalgia with industry insights.

Jesse Eisenberg, acclaimed actor and director known for his roles in The Social Network and Zombieland, shares how Marc changed his life. He reflects on childhood fears and the bleakness that shaped him as an adult. Their conversation delves into Jesse's new film, A Real Pain, revealing how personal experiences fuel his creativity. Eisenberg also discusses trauma tourism, the complexities of character depth, and the significance of authenticity in storytelling, mixing humor and nostalgia throughout.