Shows
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers | Films of Peter JacksonThe Intrepid Filmographers continue their journey through Middle-earth with a deep dive into The Two Towers, the bold and emotionally charged middle chapter of Peter Jackson’s trilogy. Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia explore the film’s daring departures from Tolkien’s text, the groundbreaking creation of Gollum, and the dramatic expansion of the world through Rohan, Fangorn Forest, and the looming threat of war.They discuss the film’s tonal complexity, the evolution of its characters, and the thematic threads—environmentalism, sacrifice, hope, and the human cost of conflict—that make The Two Towers one of the most...
2025-11-162h 33
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring | Films of Peter JacksonIn this epic installment of The Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia embark on their journey into Middle-earth with The Fellowship of the Ring, the film that redefined modern fantasy cinema. The hosts explore Peter Jackson’s monumental achievement — from its awe-inspiring world-building and groundbreaking visuals to its emotional storytelling and timeless themes of courage, friendship, and sacrifice.They dive into the film’s cultural legacy, its influence on the fantasy genre, and the artistry behind its production — from Howard Shore’s unforgettable score to Andrew Lesnie’s luminous cinematography. Along the way, they examine standout per...
2025-11-023h 00
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Frighteners | Films of Peter JacksonBobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia continue their exploration of Peter Jackson’s filmography with a deep dive into The Frighteners — the supernatural horror-comedy that bridged his cult horror roots and his Hollywood blockbuster future.The hosts discuss Michael J. Fox’s magnetic performance, the film’s groundbreaking visual effects, and how Jackson’s signature energy shines through every ghostly gag and chilling twist. They reflect on The Frighteners’ unique tone, which balances death, grief, and slapstick comedy, while also examining the director’s cut, studio challenges, and the film’s lasting cult status.From its dark humor t...
2025-10-262h 10
The Intrepid FilmographersHeavenly Creatures | Films of Peter JacksonIn this episode, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia turn their focus to Heavenly Creatures — the haunting, beautiful, and deeply human drama that marked a turning point in Peter Jackson’s career. Moving away from splatter and satire, Jackson crafts a film of emotional precision, exploring the intense friendship between two teenage girls (played by Melanie Lynskey and Kate Winslet) whose bond spirals into fantasy, obsession, and tragedy.Bobby and Nick discuss how Heavenly Creatures blends realism with imaginative fantasy sequences, how it captures adolescence’s volatility, and why it remains one of Jackson’s most emotionally sophisti...
2025-10-052h 04
The Intrepid FilmographersBraindead | Films of Peter JacksonBobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia continue their journey through Peter Jackson’s early career with his outrageous cult classic Braindead (released as Dead Alive in the U.S.). Known as one of the goriest movies ever made, the film blends over-the-top splatter effects with slapstick comedy, romance, and family drama in a way only Jackson could pull off.In this episode, Bobby and Nick explore the film’s wild mix of horror and humor, its cultural context in New Zealand cinema, and the technical ingenuity that made its practical effects legendary. From zombie kung-fu priests to the...
2025-09-071h 42
The Intrepid FilmographersMeet the Feebles | Films of Peter JacksonJoin Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia as they navigate the bizarre and grotesque world of Peter Jackson's Meet the Feebles. This episode dives into the film’s strange blend of puppetry, satire, and shock value, unpacking how it reflects Jackson’s wild early creativity. From the movie’s grotesque humor to its biting commentary on fame, sex, and show business, Bobby and Nick explore why this cult oddity remains one of the most polarizing films of Jackson’s career.Whether you love it, hate it, or just can’t look away, Meet the Feebles offers a fascinatin...
2025-08-311h 11
The Intrepid FilmographersBad Taste | Films of Peter JacksonIn this episode, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia launch a brand-new mini-series exploring the films of Peter Jackson, beginning with his outrageous cult classic Bad Taste. They dive into Jackson’s journey from no-budget DIY filmmaker in New Zealand to one of the most celebrated directors of his generation. Along the way, they discuss the film’s absurd humor, inventive practical effects, and the alien fast food concept that cemented its place in horror-comedy history. From Monty Python-inspired gags to Sam Raimi–style energy, Bad Taste is both disgusting and hilarious — and an early showcase of Jackson’s boundless...
2025-08-241h 15
The Intrepid FilmographersCyrano | Films of Joe WrightIn the final entry of their Joe Wright miniseries, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia tackle one of the director’s boldest and most overlooked works: Cyrano (2021). A stylized musical romance starring Peter Dinklage, with music by The National, Cyrano reimagines the classic tale with modern emotion, theatrical visuals, and a deeply tragic heart.The conversation covers the film’s COVID-delayed release, box office struggles, and Wright’s distinct blend of humor, heartbreak, and visual flourish. From its heartfelt songs to the devastating climax, Bobby and Nick unpack the film’s exploration of self-worth, love, and sacrifice—while also...
2025-07-061h 56
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Woman in the Window | Films of Joe WrightIn this episode of The Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia explore one of the most polarizing films in Joe Wright’s career: The Woman in the Window (2021). A domestic thriller steeped in paranoia, visual style, and production controversy, the film features Amy Adams as an agoraphobic woman who may—or may not—have witnessed a murder across the street.The hosts dive deep into the movie’s Hitchcockian influences, its unreliable narrator, the behind-the-scenes chaos, and whether Joe Wright’s ambitious stylization enhances or overshadows the story. With sharp takes on Gary Oldman’s unhinged cha...
2025-06-292h 06
The Intrepid FilmographersDarkest Hour | Films of Joe WrightIn this episode of The Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia dig into Joe Wright’s Oscar-winning World War II drama Darkest Hour. Anchored by Gary Oldman’s transformative performance as Winston Churchill, the film explores the burden of leadership in the face of global crisis.The hosts unpack the narrative structure, the theatricality of Wright’s direction, and whether the film transcends the biopic formula. They also debate the effectiveness of the screenplay, the role of supporting characters like Lily James and Kristin Scott Thomas, and the controversial underground scene. This episode blends...
2025-06-221h 46
The Intrepid FilmographersPan | Films of Joe WrightIn this episode of The Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia tackle Joe Wright’s 2015 film Pan — a fantastical, big-budget reimagining of the Peter Pan mythos that crashed and burned at the box office.They break down the film’s chaotic tone, baffling creative choices, and stunning visuals that can’t quite hide a hollow core. From Hugh Jackman’s over-the-top Blackbeard to the ill-fated Nirvana sing-along, this conversation explores the fine line between artistic risk and creative misfire. With themes of betrayal, chosen one tropes, and lost franchise dreams, the episode highlights where Pan soars, stu...
2025-06-011h 46
The Intrepid FilmographersAnna Karenina | Films of Joe WrightIn this conversation, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia delve into Joe Wright's adaptation of Anna Karenina, exploring its themes of love, societal expectations, and the unique theatrical style that defines the film. They discuss the complexities of character dynamics, the visual storytelling techniques employed, and the critical reception of the film, ultimately reflecting on its impact and significance in the realm of literary adaptations. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the themes of love, societal expectations, and the tragic downfall of Anna Karenina. They explore the artifice of society, the tension of forbidden love, and the consequences...
2025-05-251h 43
The Intrepid FilmographersHanna | Films of Joe WrightJoe Wright goes full fairy tale assassin in Hanna (2011), a genre-defying mix of espionage thriller, coming-of-age story, and arthouse action. In this episode, Bobby and Nick dig into the wild tonal swings, Chemical Brothers score, and stylized direction that marks Wright’s biggest departure yet. They also examine Hanna’s lasting influence, why some scenes still hit hard, and what happens when a filmmaker maybe tries a little too hard to prove they can do something different. It’s a divisive one—so get ready to argue about Tom Hollander’s tiny white shorts and whether this is a future cul...
2025-05-111h 46
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Soloist | Films of Joe WrightOur journey through the films of Joe Wright continues as we dive into one of his most unexpected career turns: The Soloist (2009), starring Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr. Based on the true story of journalist Steve Lopez and musician Nathaniel Ayers, this film tackles themes of mental illness, race, music, and the ethics of storytelling. We dig into Wright’s experimental sound design, the tension between empathy and exploitation, and the role of art as both a bridge and a burden. This one sparks some of our most personal conversation yet — join us for an honest and emotional expl...
2025-05-041h 39
The Intrepid FilmographersAtonement | Films of Joe WrightOur Joe Wright miniseries continues with Atonement (2007), his sweeping and emotionally devastating follow-up to Pride & Prejudice. Reuniting with Keira Knightley and bringing in James McAvoy, Saoirse Ronan, and Vanessa Redgrave, Wright adapts Ian McEwan’s acclaimed novel into a visually lush and stylistically bold portrait of love, guilt, war, and the stories we tell ourselves.In this episode, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia break down the film’s shifting timelines, theatrical flourishes, and that now-iconic Dunkirk tracking shot. They also unpack the film’s controversial twist, the role of perspective in both narrative and filmmaking, and how At...
2025-04-132h 03
The Intrepid FilmographersPride & Prejudice | Films of Joe WrightA brand new miniseries begins! Join Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia as they embark on an exploration of the films of director Joe Wright — and they’re starting with the film that put him on the map: Pride & Prejudice (2005).This landmark adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel blends traditional period drama aesthetics with bold directorial flair — including sweeping tracking shots, striking natural light, and one incredibly memorable hand flex. Bobby and Nick discuss how Wright’s debut immediately distinguished him as a singular filmmaker, and how his interpretation of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy differs from those...
2025-04-061h 29
The Intrepid FilmographersAir | Films of Ben AffleckOur Ben Affleck miniseries comes to an end with Air (2023), the story of how Nike landed Michael Jordan and changed the sneaker industry forever. Directed by Affleck and starring Matt Damon, Jason Bateman, Viola Davis, Chris Tucker, and Affleck himself as Nike co-founder Phil Knight, Air blends corporate drama, sports mythology, and sharp-witted humor into one of the most entertaining business movies in years.Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia discuss Affleck’s return to form, Matt Damon’s performance as the determined Sonny Vaccaro, and whether the film manages to make the signing of a sh...
2025-03-161h 36
The Intrepid FilmographersLive by Night | Films of Ben AffleckOur Ben Affleck miniseries continues with Live by Night (2016), his ambitious but ultimately troubled attempt at a Prohibition-era gangster epic. Based on the novel by Dennis Lehane, the film follows Joe Coughlin (Affleck), an outlaw-turned-bootlegger navigating crime, corruption, and moral dilemmas from Boston to Florida. With a stacked cast—including Zoe Saldana, Chris Cooper, Sienna Miller, Elle Fanning, and Chris Messina—Live by Night had all the makings of a crime classic. So, what went wrong?Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia break down the film’s sweeping scope, its lackluster execution, and how Affleck’s performance might be...
2025-03-091h 26
The Intrepid FilmographersThe 2025 Intrepid Filmographers AwardsThe moment has arrived! Welcome to the Inaugural Intrepid Filmographers Awards, where we honor the best films, performances, and cinematic achievements of 2024. From Dune: Part Two to Challengers, Nosferatu, Furiosa, and more, we break down our picks across major categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and beyond!Who takes home our top honors? Tune in to find out—and become an Intrepid Filmographer yourself by subscribing and joining us on this cinematic journey!🎬 Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome to the Intrepid Filmographers Awards!05:00 - Best Cinematography10:30 - Best Score15:45 - Best Adapted Screenplay20:20 - Best Origi...
2025-03-022h 40
The Intrepid FilmographersArgo | Films of Ben AffleckOur Ben Affleck miniseries continues with his Academy Award-winning political thriller, Argo (2012). This gripping historical drama tells the incredible true story of how the CIA, under the guise of a fake Hollywood sci-fi movie, staged a daring rescue of six American diplomats trapped in Iran during the 1979 hostage crisis.Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia break down Affleck’s impressive direction, how the film balances tension with humor, and whether Argo truly deserved its Best Picture win. They also discuss Affleck’s restrained lead performance, the film’s historical liberties, and how it compares to other Hollywood politi...
2025-02-242h 00
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Town | Films of Ben AffleckThe Intrepid Filmographers continue their deep dive into Ben Affleck’s directorial career with The Town (2010), a tense and thrilling crime drama set in the heart of Boston. Following the success of Gone Baby Gone, Affleck takes on a larger-scale story of bank robbers, loyalty, and impossible love, starring himself alongside Jeremy Renner, Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm, and Blake Lively.Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia break down how The Town refines Affleck’s skills as a director, from its gripping action sequences to its deeply rooted Boston authenticity. They discuss Jeremy Renner’s intense, Oscar-nominated performance, Afflec...
2025-02-161h 56
The Intrepid FilmographersGone Baby Gone | Films of Ben AffleckWelcome to a brand-new miniseries from Intrepid Filmographers! In this episode, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia dive into Ben Affleck’s directorial debut, Gone Baby Gone (2007). This gripping neo-noir mystery, adapted from Dennis Lehane’s novel, stars Casey Affleck, Michelle Monaghan, Ed Harris, and Morgan Freeman in a tale of moral ambiguity, loss, and difficult choices set against the gritty backdrop of South Boston.Bobby and Nick discuss Affleck’s impressive transition from actor to director, the film’s complex narrative, and its moral dilemmas. They also explore Casey Affleck’s performance, the film’s use of real Bost...
2025-02-022h 23
The Intrepid FilmographersYellowjackets Pilot Review | Films of Karyn KusamaIn this special bonus episode of Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia aren’t ready to part ways with Karyn Kusama just yet! After completing their deep dive into Kusama’s filmography, they take a detour to explore two lesser-discussed projects: her short film Her Only Living Son from the horror anthology XX and her direction of the pilot episode of Showtime’s hit series Yellowjackets.First, they discuss Her Only Living Son, a short horror film that riffs on Rosemary’s Baby with a modern twist. Bobby and Nick examine Kusama’s minimalist approach, the film’s...
2025-01-261h 35
The Intrepid FilmographersDestroyer | Films of Karyn KusamaIn this episode of Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia dig into Karyn Kusama’s gritty crime drama Destroyer (2018), starring Nicole Kidman in one of her most transformative roles. Known for its unflinching portrayal of a damaged detective haunted by her past, Destroyer presents a raw, intense journey through Los Angeles’ underbelly.Bobby and Nick explore Kidman’s powerhouse performance, the film’s themes of guilt, redemption, and self-destruction, and Kusama’s unique approach to neo-noir. They also discuss the film’s use of flashbacks, its stylistic choices, and its place in Kusama’s eclectic fil...
2025-01-192h 35
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Invitation | Films of Karyn KusamaIn this suspenseful episode of Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia dissect Karyn Kusama’s 2015 psychological thriller The Invitation. Set entirely in a single house in the Hollywood Hills, the film follows a dinner party that spirals into paranoia and dread, blurring the line between grief, social anxiety, and something far more sinister.Bobby and Nick dive into Kusama’s masterful direction, exploring how the film builds tension through atmosphere, subtle performances, and the clever use of social dynamics. They discuss Logan Marshall-Green’s standout performance, the film’s themes of grief and trauma, and its chil...
2025-01-121h 40
The Intrepid FilmographersJennifer's Body | Films of Karyn KusamaIn this episode of Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia tackle Karyn Kusama’s cult classic, Jennifer’s Body (2009). Written by Diablo Cody, this sharp, satirical horror-comedy stars Megan Fox as a high school cheerleader turned demonic killer, and Amanda Seyfried as her best friend caught in the chaos. The film, misunderstood at its release, has since gained a devoted following, and Bobby and Nick dive deep into its themes, performances, and legacy.They explore how Jennifer’s Body flips horror tropes on their head, its feminist undertones, and how it critiques societal treatment of women...
2025-01-052h 11
The Intrepid FilmographersAeon Flux | Films of Karyn KusamaIn this conversation, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia delve into the film Aeon Flux, directed by Karen Kusama. They explore the film's origins, its connection to the animated series, and the challenges Kusama faced as a female director in a male-dominated industry. The discussion highlights the studio's interference during production, leading to a final product that diverged significantly from Kusama's vision. The hosts reflect on the film's reception, its visual style, and the performances of the cast, particularly Charlize Theron. Ultimately, they assess the film's legacy and its place within the broader context of sci-fi cinema. In this...
2024-12-151h 40
The Intrepid FilmographersGirlfight | Films of Karyn KusamaIn this episode of Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia step into the ring with Karyn Kusama’s debut feature, Girlfight (2000). Starring Michelle Rodriguez in her breakout role, this gritty, heartfelt drama blends the classic tropes of boxing movies with a unique, feminist twist. Bobby and Nick dive into the film’s impact, its low-budget indie roots, and Kusama’s ability to craft a deeply personal, character-driven story.The hosts explore the film’s unique production journey, the themes of self-discovery and empowerment, and Kusama’s distinctive style, which shines through even in her first outing. Fr...
2024-11-241h 47
The Intrepid FilmographersSpiderhead | Films of Joseph KosinskiIn this episode of Intrepid Filmographers, hosts Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia take a deep dive into Joseph Kosinski’s sci-fi thriller Spiderhead. Starring Chris Hemsworth, Miles Teller, and Jurnee Smollett, Spiderhead brings viewers into a psychological experiment gone wrong, based on George Saunders' short story Escape from Spiderhead. Bobby and Nick discuss Kosinski’s unique direction, Hemsworth’s charming-yet-sinister performance, and the movie’s themes of free will, morality, and the impact of technology.The hosts explore Kosinski’s transition from big-budget blockbusters to a contained, psychological thriller. They dissect Hemsworth’s “tech bro” portrayal, the use of mind...
2024-11-011h 35
The Intrepid FilmographersTop Gun Maverick | Films of Joseph KosinskiIn this thrilling episode of Intrepid Filmographers, hosts Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia take on Joseph Kosinski's acclaimed action blockbuster, Top Gun: Maverick. Thirty years after Top Gun became a defining classic, Maverick brings Tom Cruise back to the skies in a legacy sequel that pushes cinematic boundaries with stunning aerial stunts and heartfelt storytelling.Bobby and Nick discuss Kosinski’s direction, Tom Cruise’s intense commitment to authenticity, and how Top Gun: Maverick blends nostalgia with a fresh, gripping storyline. They explore the film’s development journey, the incredible aerial sequences, and its use of practi...
2024-10-252h 57
The Intrepid FilmographersOnly the Brave | Films of Joseph KosinskiIn this episode of Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia continue their deep dive into the filmography of director Joseph Kosinski with a detailed analysis of his 2017 drama, Only the Brave. Based on the true story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, this film portrays the heroism, brotherhood, and tragedy of a group of firefighters in Arizona.Bobby and Nick explore Kosinski’s shift from sci-fi blockbusters to a more grounded, character-driven drama. They discuss the film's portrayal of real-life events, its ensemble cast led by Josh Brolin, Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly, and Jeff Bridges, and ho...
2024-10-182h 08
The Intrepid FilmographersOblivion | Films of Joseph KosinskiIn this episode of Intrepid Filmographers, Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia continue their exploration of director Joseph Kosinski's body of work with a deep dive into his 2013 sci-fi epic, Oblivion. With a minimalist cast led by Tom Cruise, stunning visuals, and some questionable plot choices, Oblivion is a fascinating film that sparked a lot of conversation.Bobby and Nick discuss Kosinski's visual mastery and how it shines through in the film’s design, from the futuristic bubble ship to the striking, real-world locations. They debate the movie's story structure, Cruise's performance, and the surprising amount of in...
2024-10-111h 54
The Intrepid FilmographersTron Legacy | Films of Joseph KosinskiIn the first episode of The Intrepid Filmogrpahers, hosts Bobby Shortle and Nick Rocco Scalia delve into the filmography of Joseph Kosinski, focusing on his debut film, Tron Legacy. They explore the concept of journeyman filmmakers, the impact of Kosinski's background in architecture on his visual storytelling, and the significance of the film's score by Daft Punk. The conversation also touches on character development, corporate themes, and the evolution of visual effects from the original Tron to its sequel. Through their analysis, they highlight the importance of underappreciated filmmakers and the complexities of modern filmmaking. In this conversation, Bobby...
2024-10-042h 07
The Intrepid FilmographersThe Intrepid Filmographers Podcast TrailerJoin Bobby Shortle and Nick Scalia on "Intrepid Filmographers," where we dive deep into the fascinating world of under-discussed filmmakers. Each episode, we explore the complete filmographies of unique directors, uncovering hidden gems and sharing fresh insights. Whether you're a seasoned cinephile or a casual movie lover, our passionate discussions and in-depth analysis will guide you through the art of filmmaking, offering new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the medium we love. Tune in for an exciting journey through cinema's uncharted territories! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with...
2024-09-3001 min