Kermode & Mayo’s Take

Multi-hyphenate filmmaker Mario Van Peebles joins to discuss his latest project, 'Outlaw Posse', a bold reimagining of Black Westerns that defies typical narratives. He shares insights on celebrating Black cowboys and family legacies in indie filmmaking, being part of a creative dynasty with his father and son. The conversation also touches on the unsettling themes in 'The Monkey', a dark comedy horror about a murderous toy, blending slapstick and gore in a refreshing way. Listeners get a broad look at modern cinema’s rich storytelling landscape from a diverse perspective.

Stephen Graham, known for his dynamic roles in films like 'This Is England' and 'Boiling Point,' joins the show alongside Malachi Kirby. They discuss their intense training for the Victorian boxing drama 'A Thousand Blows.' Listeners hear about Graham’s character, a fierce East End boxer, and Kirby’s dreamer arriving from Jamaica. The conversation also touches on the emotional weight of Bridget Jones's new chapter as a widow, blending humor with poignant reflections. Plus, insights into the resilience of filmmakers create an engaging tapestry of storytelling.

Dive into the whirlwind of awards season highlights! Discover unique films like 'Emilia Pérez' that blend genres and explore Bob Dylan's cinematic legacy. Get insider insights on the art of casting, including innovative talent discovery techniques, and learn about the significance of awards nominations. Hear anecdotes from renowned filmmakers and actors as they discuss the challenges and triumphs behind their creative processes. Plus, prepare to impress at your Oscars watch-party with all the latest buzz!

This week’s guest is Peter Sarsgaard, acclaimed actor known for both indie gems and blockbusters. He dives into his role in 'September 5', a gripping drama about the Munich Olympics massacre and the ethical dilemmas faced by reporters covering such tragedy. The conversation reveals the complexities of portraying real events in film, along with his experiences working with wife Maggie Gyllenhaal. Alongside this, the hosts review the quirky animated feature 'Dog Man', exploring its humor and appeal to younger audiences.

In this captivating discussion, Chris Sanders, director of the Oscar-nominated ‘The Wild Robot’ and voice of Stitch from Disney, shares his unique insights into animation. He delves into the stunning blend of hand-drawn and CG animation in his films, emphasizing the emotional power of character development. Chris explores the deep human connections represented by robot characters like Roz, revealing how they mirror our complexities. He also reflects on the nostalgia tied to beloved animated figures, celebrating the joy they bring to fans.

Brady Corbet, Oscar-nominated director of 'The Brutalist', shares insights into his acclaimed film that captures the life of architect László Tóth post-Holocaust. He discusses the artistic process behind the movie, which earned 10 Oscar nominations, and how architecture influences cinematic storytelling. Brady also tackles the ethics of AI in film, emphasizing the need for genuine representation in an evolving industry. Expect a fascinating blend of inspiration, personal narrative, and the complexities of modern filmmaking!

Dive into the intricate world of film embargoes and their effect on critics, illustrated by a recent Mel Gibson thriller. Explore how these policies shape film reception, alongside a gripping critique of Mark Wahlberg's misleading role and the film's execution. The discussion doesn't shy away from cinematic violence, tackling disappointing performances and convoluted plots. This podcast reveals the highs and lows of Hollywood, offering a fascinating take on the art of filmmaking and audience expectations.

This week's guests are acclaimed British filmmaker Mike Leigh, known for his naturalistic storytelling, and Marianne Jean-Baptiste, a revered dramatic actress. They delve into their new film 'Hard Truths,' exploring the complexities of Pansy, an angry woman grappling with grief and isolation. Mike shares his unique improvisational methods for developing characters, while Marianne discusses the humor intertwined with Pansy's struggles. They also touch on the poignant themes of immigration highlighted in 'The Brutalist,' revealing insights into modern cinematic storytelling.

James Mangold, the acclaimed director behind hits like 'Walk the Line' and 'Logan,' joins to discuss his latest film, 'A Complete Unknown.' The conversation dives into the challenges of portraying Bob Dylan's complex early life, including his tumultuous relationships with music legends. Mangold shares insights on Timothée Chalamet's performance and the film's depiction of Dylan's rise amid iconic moments, like the infamous ‘Judas!’ performance at Newport. The episode also features reviews of the latest releases, adding to the engaging film discourse.

Stephen Knight, a legendary film and TV writer known for works like Peaky Blinders and Locke, joins Ben Bailey Smith for a deep dive into his illustrious career. They discuss Knight's latest biopic, Maria, exploring the creative process and its themes of self-reflection. The conversation also touches on how his humble beginnings in comedy shaped his writing style. Plus, he spills some exciting gossip about the anticipated Peaky Blinders movie, making this a must-listen for fans of his storytelling!