Shows
The Popcorn AuteurKelly ReichardtReichardt has had a busy and interesting career as a filmmaker. Beloved by the critics, her movies may be too understated for the award season. Her latest, The Mastermind, will be hitting theaters this fall, so we educate ourselves by watching the films written and directed by Reichardt. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/persons-of-interest/the-states-of-kelly-reichardt https://letterboxd.com/film/the-mastermind-2025/ https://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/ep...2025-07-301h 23The Popcorn AuteurHarry Elfont & Deborah KaplanYou may not know this writing team's credits, but if you are our age, you know Can't Hardly Wait. You may also consider Josie and the Pussycats a cult classic. Hop into a time machine with us to examine the films of Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.theringer.com/2018/06/11/movies/cant-hardly-wait-20th-anniversary https://www.buzzfeed.com/jennaguillaume/i-rewatched-cant-hardly-wait-as-an-adult-and-it-was-quite-a https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/jarettwieselman/7-t...2025-05-221h 02The Popcorn AuteurMegan ParkMegan Park is an up and coming filmmaker. After a lengthy career as an actress, she has now directed two films: The Fallout and My Old Ass. We saw My Old Ass on some top ten lists last year and the level of praise from Chris Columbus had us intrigued: "“My Old Ass” is an instant classic, this generation’s “It’s A Wonderful Life.” Over the past decade, I’ve witnessed a handful of young filmmakers with this kind of extraordinary promise. Megan, along with directors like Ryan Coogler and Robert Eggers, is a crucial component of our cinemati...2025-04-031h 03The Popcorn AuteurRichard CurtisRichard Curtis is one of the mosty successful screenwriters to come out of Great Britain, but he's also directed three films of his own. From the modern Christmas classic of Love Actually to the underseen About Time, we will discuss the films written and directed by Curtis. Our Holiday episode made it out while there is still snow on the ground, so that's something. As always let us know what we got wrong at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gugpWvACiiw http...2025-02-191h 10The Popcorn AuteurAlejandro G. IñárrituWhy did it take us this long to cover the last of the three amigos? Perhaps it was the memories of Babel or a fear of bear attacks. Or perhaps the fact that Alejandro G. Iñárritu wasn't always a screenwriter. No matter the reason, in this episdoe we have a spolier-filled discussion of the four films written and directed by Iñárritu. As an added bonus, you get to hear Chris mispronounce a number of Spanish words (in addition to the usual French words). As always let us know what we got wrong on Face...2024-12-161h 14The Popcorn AuteurAri AsterHappy Halloween! This year, Paul Kowalski is back to help us examine the films of Ari Aster. Come for the dread and decapitations, stay for the unified Ari Aster theory. Plenty of spoilers in this discussion. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://letterboxd.com/samvanhallgren/film/midsommar/ https://www.gq.com/story/ari-aster-martin-scorsese-interview-beau-is-afraid-a24 https://a24films.com/notes/2019/07/deep-cuts-with-robert-eggers-and-ari-aster https://slate.com/culture/2023/04/beau-is-afraid-movie-ending-explained-maybe.html ...2024-10-311h 40The Popcorn AuteurDuncan JonesDuncan Jones has a famous father, but he's attempted to blaze his own trail as an artist. Once a rising star in sci-fi filmmaking, Jones has struggled to find success as of late. In this espisode, we discuss the highs and lows of his filmography. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes: https://www.theverge.com/2016/6/9/11885594/warcraft-movie-review-duncan-jones-blizzard-film-adaptation https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/viscosity-in-the-early-80s-with-chris-nashawaty/id1525039108?i=1000664689578 http://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/episode-892...2024-10-211h 12The Popcorn AuteurSofia CoppolaSofia Coppola's surname means a lot in filmmaking, and yet she's been able to blaze her own distinct trail. She's a particular filmmaker intent on executing her particular vision. Listen as we discuss what did and did not connect with us from Coppola's filmography. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://slate.com/culture/2017/06/sofia-coppolas-whitewashed-new-movie-the-beguiled.html https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/somewhere-2010 https://youtu.be/1r3FkR5rziY?feature=sha...2024-09-251h 33The Popcorn AuteurDon BluthThe talented Jonathan Sundy joins us to discuss the films written and directed by Don Bluth (No Littlefoot or Fievel here). Bluth is famous for leaving Disney and then giving them a run for their money in the late 80s and early 90s. In this episode, we look at the highs and lows of Bluth's career. Check out Jonathan Sundy's books here. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://youtu.be/j0C...2024-06-141h 20The Popcorn AuteurTom McCarthyTom McCarthy co-wrote and directed Spotlight, which took home the Oscar for Best Picture. McCarthy won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The next time McCarthy returned to the director's chair was for the direct to Disney+ Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made (since pulled from the platform). McCarthy has spent his career attempting to make films for grown-ups while also dabbling in children's movies, getting a story credit on Up. In this episode, we try to make sense of this ping-ponging. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us...2024-04-031h 27The Popcorn AuteurAlexander PayneIn this episode, we are joined by high school teacher and wine drinker (not at the same time), Mark Staron, to discuss the films of Alexander Payne. We had a fun discussion covering everything from voiceovers and Omaha to which film made us cry the most. We also drank some wines featured in Sideways, so all in all a successful podcast. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: One Man's Trash Next P...2024-01-221h 43The Popcorn AuteurJordan PeeleHappy Halloween! This October 31st, we delve into thinking-man's horror with the films of Jordan Peele. We welcome back Paul Kowalski for this fun conversation. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Staff Notes/Sources: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/the-front-row/nope-is-one-of-the-great-movies-about-moviemaking https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/067-pt-2-get-out-people-under-the-stairs/id1057714949?i=1000382395226 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nope-with-jordan-peele/id1439252196?i=1000570855194 https://www.filmspotting.net/episodes-archive/2019/3/22/721-us-elite-8-filmspotting-madness-cassavetes-4 ...2023-10-311h 47The Popcorn AuteurGreta GerwigGreta Gerwig's career is firing on all cylinders. She has the biggest film of 2023, Barbie, consistent critical acclaim, and Academy love. But will she get the Popcorn Auteur badge of approval? Join us as we review Gerwig's career as a filmmaker, starting with the oft-overlooked Nights and Weekends. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.filmspotting.net/episodes-archive/2023/7/27/929-barbie-oppenheimer https://soundcloud.com/thedirectorscut/lady-bird-with-greta-gerwig-and-spike-jonze-ep-111 https://www.theringer.com/2023/7/27/23809449/ba...2023-10-201h 29The Popcorn AuteurJames MangoldJames Mangold has one of the more eclectic filmmaking careers. From indie dramas to romantic comedies to R-rated superheros and now Indiana Jones, Mangold's films run the gamut. We were excited to explore this filmography and shocked to discover that Mangold lifts the time travel dynamics directy from Kate & Leopold for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1955&dat=20000111&id=DYs0A...2023-08-291h 28The Popcorn AuteurSarah PolleyFresh off of winning the Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar for Women Talking, Sarah Polley is posed to become a major voice in modern filmmaking. In this episode, we review Polley's short but impressive list of films. Warning: We also talk rickshaws. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.indiewire.com/awards/consider-this/sarah-polley-women-talking-interview-oscars-1234811960/ https://www.vogue.com/article/women-talking-sarah-polley-interview https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2022/11/21/sarah-polleys-journey-from-child-star-to-feminist-auteur https://w...2023-07-071h 09The Popcorn AuteurBenson & MoorheadJustin Benson and Aaron Moorhead are filmmakers that embody independent filmmaking. There latest film, Something in the Dirt was made largely by just three people. In this episode, we have a blast jumping into their micro-budget Lovecraftian multiverse. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mortalpodkast/episodes/Justin-Benson--Aaron-Moorhead-vs--Baraka-e1msgei https://content.libsyn.com/p/6/0/a/60a38baf727565fd/SynchronicQandAJustinBensenAaronMoorhead.mp3 https://variety.com/2...2023-05-121h 20The Popcorn AuteurKasi LemmonsOur film education continues with the films of Kasi Lemmons. Lemmons made the transition from acting to behind the camera with the stellar Eve's Bayou. A filmmaking career that has spanned over 25 years, including 2019's Harriet, her writing and directing output is worth a look. Join us as we discuss. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.theatlantic.com/sponsored/forevermark-2016/third-act-the-journey-of-a-hollywood-director/816/ https://www.indiewire.com/2019/10/harriet-kasi-lemmons-interview-1202183808/ https://aal...2023-03-281h 15The Popcorn AuteurShane BlackShane Black was once Hollywood's hottest screenwriter. After some rough times, he transitioned into the director's chair and has helmed a Marvel Cinematic Universe film (Iron Man 3) and 2018's The Predator. Nonetheless, we were most excited to talk about his other films - Kiss Kiss Bang Bang and The Nice Guys. In this episode we were joined by Shane Black enthusiast and always busy podcaster Jay Cluitt. Listen as we talk through the highs and one significant low of Black's career. Find more from Jay here: https://lifevsfilm.com/ Deep Blue S...2023-02-271h 27The Popcorn AuteurDavid Cronenberg - Part 2In part 2 of our journey through the films of David Cronenberg, we get away from the horror. In this episode, we examine the controversial (Crash), the confusing (Naked Lunch), and the upsetting (Cosmopolis). Paul Kowalski is back for a fun draft of all 15 films written and directed by Cronenberg. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/crash-1997 https://www.criterion.com/shop/browse?director=cronenberg-david2022-12-071h 40The Popcorn AuteurDavid Cronenberg - Part 1For our Halloween episode, Paul Kowalski is back to delve into a 2-parter on body horror master David Cronenberg. In part 1, we go from the oddities of his early experimental films to cult classics Scanners and Videodrome. Listen as we explore these wild films and try to reach some consensus on his best body horror film. Staff Notes/Sources: https://nymag.com/nymetro/movies/features/14547/ https://www.criterion.com/current/posts/1678-videodrome-the-slithery-sense-of-unreality https://www.criterion.com/current/posts/3739-the-brood-separation-trials https://soundcloud.com/the-important-cinema-club/229-david-cronenbergs-vanilla-sex-life https://ww...2022-10-311h 44The Popcorn AuteurNora EphronNora Ephron may have been the master of the romantic comedy (Sleepless in Seattle, You've Got Mail, & When Harry Met Sally), but her filmography is far more diverse and at times supernatural (angels and witches). Listen as we discuss the variety of films she wrote and directed during her career. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show notes/sources: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2022/08/22/the-nora-ephron-we-forget https://www.rogerebert.com/features/her-own-story-a-nora-ephron-appreciation https://y...2022-10-061h 22The Popcorn AuteurLawrence Kasdan - Part 2We are back to finish up the filmography of Lawrence Kasdan. His second half may not include the hits and critical successes of the first half, but we came into this episode hopeful. Listen to hear whether that hope was paid off or if Kasdan lost his fastball in his later works. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/darling-companion-2012 https://screenrant.com/tombstone-vs-wyatt-earp-movies-best-biopic/2022-08-311h 17The Popcorn AuteurLawrence Kasdan - Part 1Lawrence Kasdan is best known for his screenwriting credits in the Star Wars and Indiana Jones universe, but he's an accomplished filmmaker in his own right. In this episode, we start our exploration of Kasdan's filmography from Body Heat to Grand Canyon. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Chris's Scene from Silverado: https://youtu.be/QxXbtzn-6PE Show Notes/Sources: https://www.criterion.com/current/posts/3250-the-big-chill-these-are-your-parents https://med...2022-07-291h 22The Popcorn AuteurChristopher McQuarrieWe don't claim to be action movie experts, but maybe McQuarrie never rerally saw himself becoming a blockbuster action director. Following an early Oscar and a near exit from the film industry, McQuarrie has paired with Tom Cruise for reliable box office success. DJ Valentine from Simplistic Reviews helps guide us through the four thinking-man action films written and directed by McQuarrie, from The Way of the Gun to Mission: Impossible - Fallout. Movie Clips mentioned: Mission: Impossible - Fallout Foot Chase Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation Opening Chase ...2022-06-161h 31The Popcorn AuteurElaine MayElaine May is a comedy legend with a directing career that came to an infamous end with Ishtar. Her film career has undergone a bit of a positive reappraisal lately, even with earning a Criterion entry for Mikey and Nickey. You don't have to look far either to find an Ishtar defender. Listen as we conduct our own appraisal of May's film output. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show notes/sources: https://soundcloud.co...2022-04-281h 11The Popcorn AuteurBong Joon-hoBong Joon-ho is an Oscar winner with a diverse filmography ranging from serial killing to a creature feature. Coming in pretty ignorant of Joon-ho and Korean filmmaking, listen to see what we thought of this hot filmmaker. Scene Picks: Parasite: Family comes home Okja: Leaving the compound As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes and Sources: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/the-craft-of-the-director-with-bong-joon-ho-ep-274/id1067471691?i=1000507926385 ht...2022-03-311h 20
The Popcorn AuteurDee ReesDee Rees has an Oscar nomination (for Mudbound) and a Criterion collection film (for Pariah) under her belt. She also can boast writing and directing Bessie, which won an Emmy for Best TV Movie. In this episode, we are joined by Mark Staron for a spoiler-filled discussion of these highs and the rest of Rees's filmography. Radiolab - The Vanishing of Harry Pace (as mentioned by Chris) Show Notes/Sources: https://time.com/5016712/filmmakers-spike-lee-and-dee-rees-reunite/ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/dee-rees-pariah-criteron-release-1234967676/ https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/06/magazine/dee-rees-black-female-director.h...2022-02-021h 37The Popcorn AuteurSteve McQueenSteve McQueen is an accomplished filmmaker, both Cannes-approved (Camera d'Or for Hunger) and the director of an Oscar winning film (12 Years a Slave). In this episode, we dive into the films written and directed by McQueen, included the ambitious Small Axe anthology. Widows car ride scene Hunger dialogue scene Show Notes/Sources: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/shame-2011 https://www.dga.org/Events/2019/Jan2019/Widows_QnA_1118.aspx https://www.theringer.com/2020/12/19/22191125/director-steve-mcqueen-on-creating-small-axe https://www.filmspotting.net/episodes-archive/2018/11/9/705-widows-bohemian-rhapsody-wildlife https://www.filmspotting.n...2021-12-231h 24The Popcorn AuteurSam RaimiIt's Halloween and Paul Kowalski is back to discuss the films of Sam Raimi. Raimi's a horror legend, but his films are like a haunted house with the lights on - things might be a little scary, but it's also pretty funny and almost comforting. Join us as we draft Raimi films and debate the worst protagonist decisions in the 7 films written and directed by Raimi. Show Notes/Sources: Army of Darkness zoom scene mentioned by Paul Horror Comedy and Raimi video Making of The Evil Dead 2021-10-311h 45The Popcorn AuteurPaul Thomas AndersonPaul Thomas Anderson has amassed an impressive filmography with his ninth feature film, Licorice Pizza, scheduled for release at the end of the year. Perhaps intimidated by the run-times and heavy themes or put off by a strange belief that there was only a place for one Anderson filmmaker in our lives, the sad reality is that we had missed most of Anderson's filmography. Luckily, Nick Rehak agreed to guide us through the films of Paul Thomas Anderson. Nick's pick for best Anderson scene: Phantom Thread New Year's Eve Party Where yo...2021-09-301h 19The Popcorn AuteurMatthew VaughnMatthew Vaughn is doing great. He's got his own cinematic universe (Kingsman), and he has also been compared to a Bond villain. While he's been largely successful with audiences, the critical reception has been more mixed. For this episode, we were joined by Richard Kirkham of the LAMBcast to journey through Vaughn's films. More from Richard Kirkham: Kirkham A Movie a Day (alternate link) 80s Nostalgia Central Show Notes/Sources: https://chicago.suntimes.com/2017/9/20/18421095/kingsman-the-secret-service-review-a-wonderfully-twisted-spy-story https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/sc-mov-kingsman-golden-circle-review-0920-story.ht...2021-08-261h 24The Popcorn AuteurJeremy SaulnierSaulnier's films might remind you of some genre classics, but he's no imitator. We were lucky enough to have Jess Manzo (French Toast Sunday) help us work through Saulnier's rather tense filmography. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: http://archive.filmspotting.net/reviews/show-archive/42-2014-shows/1161-489-2014-summer-movie-preview-blue-ruin.html https://www.filmspotting.net/episodes-archive/2016/4/29/583-green-room-top-5-single-location-movies https://www.filmspotting.net/episodes-archive/2016/4/22/582-alien-jeremy-saulnier-green-room-fs-madness-champion https://www.rogerebert.com/features/the-energy-cant-last-on-the-grimy-american-fringes-of-jeremy-saulnier2021-07-211h 22The Popcorn AuteurTamara JenkinsIn this episode, we explore the three films of Tamara Jenkins. From Slums of Beverly Hills to Private Life, Jenkins has told engaging, intimate stories while always managing to find humor. She's not prolific, but give a listen and you'll find a lot to suggest this Oscar-nominated filmmaker. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.avclub.com/tamara-jenkins-1798212852 https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/slums-of-beverly-hills-1998 https://www.fi...2021-06-241h 13The Popcorn AuteurChloé ZhaoChloé Zhao just won the Best Director Academy Award for Nomadland, which also took home best picture. In perhaps our most timely episode, we delve into the three feature films of Zhao to educate ourselves about this Oscar winner whose next film just happens to exist in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Also, Chris was a guest on The Forgotten Filmcast. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://filmmakermagazine.com/peop...2021-04-261h 01The Popcorn AuteurPete DocterThis month, we cover another member of the Pixar brain trust. Pete Docter got in early at Pixar, he's directed Oscar winners, and now he's Pixar's Chief Creative Officer. Jonathan Sundy, official animation expert for the Popcorn Auteur, joined us as we talked about Docter's four films from Monsters, Inc. to 2020's Soul. Find out more about Jonathan's projects/products here: https://jollygoodgang.com/ https://jonathansundy.com/ Show Notes/Sources: https://web.archive.org/web/20110607095807/http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/movies/45765562.html?elr=KArksDyycyUtyycyUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU2021-04-121h 19The Popcorn AuteurGuilleromo del Toro - Part 2We are back with part 2. We had a lot of fun discussing del Toro's second half. Hope you enjoy us debating if inter-species sex is Oscar bait and if ALF would have been a better character design than the fish man. Pan's Labyrinth Translations Opening Clip: Faun: You're Princess Moanna, daughter of the king of the Underworld. Ofelia: My father was a tailor. Faun: You are not born of man. It was the Moon that bore you. Chris's Pick: MERCEDES: I'm a coward. ...2021-03-051h 04The Popcorn AuteurGuillermo del ToroAs we conclude season 4, we tackle one of the busiest filmmakers working today. Guillermo del Toro is a creator of genre fiction on film, television, and in print. He is also beloved by critics and has a recent Academy Award to round out his credentials. In this episode, we examine the first four films written and directed by del Toro. Translations from clips: The Devil's Backbone Opening Clip - Casares: Have you read any more of Monte Cristo Carlos: Do you believe in ghosts? Casares: There aren’t any in the no...2021-01-201h 01The Popcorn AuteurJohn MiliusJohn Milius never reached the levels of acclaim as Spielberg, Lucas, or Coppola; however, the screenwriter behind Dirty Harry and Apocalypse Now wrote and directed cult classics such as Conan the Barbarian and Red Dawn. He did it in a larger than life manner. In this episode, we are joined by Todd Liebenow of Forgotten Films to discuss and breakdown the films of Milius. For more from Todd, visit: Forgotten Films Blog Forgotten Filmcast Walt Sent Me Todd's Twitter - @ForgottenFilmz Show Notes/Sour...2020-12-041h 30The Popcorn AuteurRobert EggersAs a filmmaker, Robert Eggers is clicking on all cylinders. His two films (both of modest budget), The Witch and The Lighthouse, have been nearly universally praised by critics. He's filming a new much bigger film, The Northman, with a star-studded cast. For our Halloween episode, Chris and Jon welcome back Paul Kowalski to help us consider the films of Robert Eggers. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/05/robert-pattinson-the-lighthouse-movie-review-cannes https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-lighthouse-review-a-beacon-of-hope-in-cinematic-darkness-11571346589 https://vanyaland.com/2019/10/21/interview-robert-eggers-on-the-weird-fiction-of-his-new-film-the-lighthouse/ https://anchor.fm/a24/e...2020-10-311h 20The Popcorn AuteurGina Prince-BythewoodGina Prince-Bythewood's name is trending this year. The classic Love & Basketball is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Additionally, Prince-Bythewood directed the recently released The Old Guard for Netflix. The attention even got her featured on the Blank Check podcast. Now it's time to listen to Chris and Jon take on GPB's filmography. Show notes/sources: https://film.avclub.com/love-basketball-was-a-romantic-slam-dunk-1841823537 https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/love-and-basketball-2000 https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-news/chris-rock-the-rolling-stone-interview-55649/ https://thedissolve.com/features/interview/821-how-two-women-and-a-video-made-beyond-the-lights-h/ http://thedissolve.com/reviews/1215-beyond-the-lights/ http://thedissolve...2020-10-151h 11
The Popcorn AuteurTaika WaititiThe world is Taika Waititi's oyster. He just won an Oscar, he's a cog in the Marvel machine, and he's being given the keys to a part of the Star Wars universe while also developing a pirate show for HBO. He also acts. In this episode we take a look at Waititi's output to date and speculate on the future of this hot filmmaker. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.filmspotting.net/episodes-archive/2019/11/15/752-magnolia-at-20-jojo-rabbit-the-report-the-king https://www.filmspotting.net/episodes-archive/2016/8/12/598-hunt-for-the-wilderpeople-top-5-directors-wed-bankroll https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-next-picture-show/e/65548765 2020-09-181h 15The Popcorn AuteurBarry JenkinsBarry Jenkins has written and directed three critically acclaimed feature films. Will Chris and Jon take a contrarian opinion? Likely not, but listen as we discuss empathy, color, and social commentary. Show Notes/Resources: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/medicine-for-melancholy-2009 https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/sc-moonlight-mov-rev-1024-20161024-column.html https://www.rogerebert.com/empathy/video-roger-ebert-on-empathy https://www.cbsnews.com/news/barry-jenkins-on-if-beale-street-could-talk/ https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-reviews/if-beale-street-could-talk-movie-review-barry-jenkins-759035/ https://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/movies-news-reviews/article135195944.html www.nytimes.com/2018/11/21/movies/medic...2020-08-131h 06The Popcorn AuteurLynn SheltonSadly, Lynn Shelton passed away earlier this year at the age of 54. On this episode, we dive into the seven feature films that Shelton left behind. From the wild set-ups of Humpday and Sword of Trust to the naturalistic and understated Outside In, Shelton gave us a varied and entertaining filmography. Show Notes/Sources: https://filmmakermagazine.com/105073-we-are-all-cracked-vessels-writer-director-lynn-shelton-on-her-first-feature-in-four-years-outside-in/#.XvIYomhKiUk http://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/in-memoriam-remembering-lynn-shelton https://letterboxd.com/filmspotting/film/touchy-feely/ https://youtu.be/Id8EPhOH7wo2020-07-021h 18The Popcorn AuteurLynne RamsayRebecca Sharp from Almost Ginger helps Jon and Chris examine the dark and visually striking films of Lynne Ramsay. Ramsay tackles a variety of dark subjects (an accidental child drowning, a suicide, a school shooting, and an underage sex ring), which means you may not want to watch these films, but you'll likely be pleased that you did. Show Notes/Sources: https://youtu.be/KjY9kf7TuUU https://www.bfi.org.uk/news-opinion/news-bfi/features/lynne-ramsay-you-were-never-really-here https://www.tiff.net/the-review/camera-work-the-cinema-of-lynne-ramsay https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/we...2020-06-051h 31The Popcorn AuteurWes AndersonWes Anderson has occupied a rare space in film - critical appreciation, award show recognition, and box office consistency. He's been able to do this while making nine feature films. Before his tenth film, The French Dispatch, comes out later in 2020, Jon and Chris are joined by John Axford to discuss the works of Anderson, from Bottle Rocket to Isle of Dogs. Show Notes/Sources: https://pitchfork.com/features/article/how-wes-anderson-perfected-the-music-nerd-soundtrack/ https://www.theguardian.com/film/2014/feb/23/wes-anderson-grand-budapest-hotel-director https://web.archive.org/web/20140927074125/http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2009/11/02/wild-wild-wes 2020-05-041h 58The Popcorn AuteurSam PeckinpahSam Peckinpah is the oldest and surely the most violent filmmaker that we have covered to this point. Listen as we discuss this iconic and influential filmmaker while grappling with the implications of Peckinpah's world view. From the seminal The Wild Bunch to the polarizing Straw Dogs, join Chris, Jon, and guest Pete Gerharz on this journey. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/great-movie-bring-me-the-head-of-alfredo-garcia-1974 https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/straw-dogs-1971 https://film.avclub.com/straw-dogs-1798198413 https://film.avclub.com/bring-me-the-head-of-alfredo-garcia-1798200542 https://film.avclub.com/sa...2020-03-311h 39The Popcorn AuteurAlex GarlandAlex Garland may not buy into the auteur theory (we may not either), but he's been at the helm of two of the most interesting science fiction films in the last decade. Listen as we dive into Ex Machina and Annihilation. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/ex-machina-2015 https://io9.gizmodo.com/director-alex-garland-explains-why-ex-machina-is-so-dis-1696309078 https://film.avclub.com/ex-machina-s-alex-garland-talks-robots-and-why-the-aute-1798278654 http://www.theqandapodcast.com/2015/04/alex-garland-ex-machina-q.html https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-ringer/channel-33/e/53501516?autoplay=true https://geeksguideshow.com/2015/04/23/ggg147-alex-garland/ ht...2020-03-111h 01The Popcorn AuteurJeff NicholsJeff Nichols hasn't made a feature film since 2016. Despite being Cannes-approved and critically appreciated, Nichols' films have never broken through to mainstream audiences or the major award circuits. Listen as we delve into his films. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.ifc.com/2011/09/jeff-nichols-take-shelter-interview https://www.buzzfeed.com/adambvary/midnight-special-ending https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/024-close-encounters-of-the-third-kind-midnight-special-pt-2/id1057714949?i=1000366806114 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jeff-nichols/id1137863855?i=1000415491119 http://www.theqandapodcast.com/2016/04/host-jeff-goldsmith-interviews-writer.html https://www.dga.org/Events/2017/Jan2017/Loving_QnA_1116.aspx h...2020-01-311h 17The Popcorn AuteurNeill BlomkampFor a while Neill Blomkamp seemed to inhabit a unique space in modern filmmaking - big original science fiction films. Then Chappie happened. Listen as we dive into the three films of Blomkamp starting with District 9, the critical darling that garnered a Best Picture nomination, and ending with Chappie, basically a reimagining of Short Circuit. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.denofgeek.com/uk/movies/chappie/49924/looking-back-at-chappie-with-director-neill-blomkamp https://thedissolve.com/features/the-conversation/79-elysium-is-just-a-bigger-broader-dumber-district-9/ https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/aug/17/elysium-neill-bloomkamp-interview2020-01-031h 01The Popcorn AuteurJohn Carpenter - Part 2Oftentimes strange, consistently unpredictable, increasingly political and entirely fun. Are we describing John Carpenter's second half or this podcast episode? Listen to find out. Paul Kowalski returns for the trip through Carpenter's later films. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2017/oct/10/john-carpenter-interview-anthology-film-scores https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/escape-from-la-1996 https://thedissolve.com/features/movie-of-the-week/931-john-carpenters-other-sillier-escape/ http://thedissolve.com/features/movie-of-the-week/928-forum-escape-from-new-york/ https://filmschoolrejects.com/34-things-we-learned-from-john-carpenters-prince-of-darkness-commentary-d8e56ad0ad31/ https://www.theringer.com/movies/2018/10/4/17933020/they-live-john-carpenter-america-donald-trump https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/ghosts-of-mars-20012019-12-131h 20The Popcorn AuteurJohn Carpenter - Part 1John Carpenter's films have been remade, imitated, and satirized. In this episode, we go to the source material and dive into the first five films that Carpenter wrote and directed, included cult classic Assault on Precinct 13. Also, it's Halloween! What better time to check out the works of a horror master? Paul Kowalski joins to help us appreciate ghost pirates. Show Notes/Sources: https://thedissolve.com/reviews/363-assault-on-precinct-13-body-bags/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSlq2yAkyTE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUkOCg_KYXM http://www.pbs.or...2019-10-311h 07The Popcorn AuteurAndrea ArnoldWhen you have a fan that recommends a filmmaker that "carries on the legacy" of Jane Campion, it's worth taking note. Andrea Arnold's films may not be easy to watch, but there is power in her work. In this episode, we immerse ourselves in the Arnold's films. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.npr.org/2016/09/29/495924904/filmmaker-andrea-arnold-on-american-honey-and-preserving-mystery-in-film https://www.indiewire.com/2019/07/big-little-lies-season-2-andrea-arnold-lost-creative-control-jean-marc-vallee-1202156884/ https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/sc-mov-1127-wuthering-heights-20121129-column.html https://web.archive.org/web/20110510114119/http://blogs.suntimes.com/foreignc/2011/02/afis-class-of-92.html https://www.vox...2019-10-161h 01The Popcorn AuteurRyan CooglerRyan Coogler went from student-athlete and film fan to box office king in a little over a dozen years. He's done three successful and critically acclaimed movies in his short career, from the potent and personal Fruitvale Station to the comic book grandeur of Black Panther. Listen as we gush and occasionally rant (mostly Chris) about the films Ryan Coogler. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, or our email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://thirstaidkitpodcast.tumblr.com/post/173993600710/thirst-aid-kit-s2e08-ryan-coogler-bay-area ...2019-09-171h 14The Popcorn AuteurJane CampionJane Campion's films will stick with you. You'll be forced to use your brain and consider varying and at times rather peculiar perspectives. Listen as we try to work our way through Campion's complex films, from the critically renowned The Piano to Meg Ryan in an erotic thriller. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, on Twitter, or our email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.npr.org/2009/09/18/112856601/jane-campions-ode-to-keats-romantic-love https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/jul/08/jane-campion-bleak-ending-the-piano https://film.avclub.com...2019-08-121h 07
The Popcorn AuteurDamien ChazelleDamien Chazelle is younger than Jon and Chris. Jon and Chris would rather not dwell on that fact. In his short career, Chazelle has become an A-list Hollywood director with an Academy Award under his belt. In this episode, we consider Chazelle's filmmaking and his worldview. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/richard-brody/whiplash-getting-jazz-right-movies https://www.shrinktank.com/la-la-land-500-days-summer-separated-birth/ http://thisguyedits.libsyn.com/whiplash-2014 https://www.gq.com/story/mad-influence-episode-2-damien-chazelle http://archive.filmspotting.net/reviews/show-archive/42-2014-shows/1231-511-whiplash-top-5-mentor-proteges.html...2019-07-031h 20The Popcorn AuteurArmando IannucciArmando Iannucci is probably best known in the US for the political satire Veep. Across the pond, he also has a number of successful TV credits; however, this TV showrunner has also made two of the best reviewed comedies in the last ten years with In the Loop and The Death of Stalin. We didn't get to him in our comedy episode, so we are remedying that now. In this episode, we are joined by Mark Staron, to review the film works of Armando Iannucci. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, Twitter, or e...2019-05-201h 09The Popcorn AuteurDebra GranikDebra Granik deserves to be included on any list of the best filmmakers of the 21st century. That should give you an idea of what we thought of Granik's four films, which include the Oscar nominated Winter's Bone and last year's Leave No Trace. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/director-debra-granik-explains-why-been-eight-long-years-between-winters-bone-leave-no-trace-1123551 https://variety.com/2019/film/news/debra-granik-oscar-insider-leave-no-trace-1203101924/ https://tisch.nyu.edu/grad-film/alumni/debra-granik- https://thedissolve.com/features/interview/1087-winters-bone-director-debra-granik-says-the-new-st/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/debra-granik-and-jennifer-lawrence-winters-bone/id417057875?i=1000092364504 http://www.shedoespodcast.com/li...2019-04-231h 04The Popcorn AuteurAlfonso CuarónWhen we did our Alfonso Cuarón episode, he was coming off of Gravity, a movie that won 6 Oscars, including Best Director. Not much has changed, except Roma only won 3 Oscars, including Best Director. Listen as we fit Roma into Cuarón's body of work. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, Twitter, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com.2019-04-0823 minThe Popcorn AuteurNicole Holofcener - The Land of Steady HabitsNicole Holofcener got nominated for an Oscar and won a Writers Guild of America award for best adapted screenplay for Can You Ever Forgive Me? In this episode, we are talking about her other 2018 release, The Land of Steady Habits. Did a male lead and no Catherine Keener lead to Netflix success? As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook, Twitter, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com.2019-04-0416 minThe Popcorn AuteurBrad Bird - Incredibles 2We are again playing catch-up with one of our auteurs. This time we review Brad Bird's Incredibles 2 and put it into context with the rest of Bird's films. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/popcornauteur/, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com.2019-04-0220 minThe Popcorn AuteurChristopher Nolan - DunkirkAre we really just talking about one movie? In this episode, we revisit Christopher Nolan, reviewing his film Dunkirk and assessing how it fits into his oeuvre. As always let us know what we got wrong on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/popcornauteur/, on Twitter, @PopcornAuteur, or email us at popcornauteur@gmail.com.2019-03-2818 minThe Popcorn AuteurMel Brooks - Part 2You won't see the latter half of Mel Brooks's films on an AFI list or ranked among his best. In this episode, we discuss if the comedy legend's "lesser" works still bring the laughs or if you should stick with the classics. Show Notes/Sources: https://io9.gizmodo.com/bill-pullman-didnt-bother-watching-star-wars-before-app-1796393445 https://film.avclub.com/when-mel-brooks-watched-star-wars-he-saw-space-penises-1798286576 https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/life-stinks-1991 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23834688-sick-in-the-head https://www.avclub.com/mel-brooks-says-he-couldnt-have-made-blazing-saddles-in-1818674405 http://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/mel-brooks-full-episode/2622/ https://www.maximumfun.or...2019-03-111h 05The Popcorn AuteurMel Brooks - Part 1It felt wrong to leave our comedy season before considering the works of Mel Brooks (and Chris's Dad wouldn't have allowed it). In Part 1, we look at the golden age of Brook's career. He won an Academy Award and delivered a string of hits throughout the 1970s. Hell, Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein came out in the same year and both finished in the top five of the highest grossing films that year. In this episode, we try to temper our fanboy urges to quote every line of memorable dialogue as we assess Mel Brooks, the filmmaker. ...2019-01-311h 02The Popcorn AuteurGillian RobespierreGillian Robespierre has been compared to Nora Ephron and Nicole Holofcener. With that distinguished company and a desire to see more Jenny Slate, we were excited to dive into the two films of Robespierre. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/ct-mov-jenny-slate-interview-0728-20170727-column.html https://www.tvovermind.com/5-things-didnt-know-gillian-robespierre/ https://filmmakermagazine.com/101168-five-questions-with-landline-director-gillian-robespierre/#.XBllv-JrxPY https://tv.avclub.com/down-with-dramedy-american-indie-cinema-s-adventures-i-1798275789 https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/obvious_child https://www.vogue.com/article/gillian-robespierre-interview https://filmmakermagazine.com/101168-five-questions-with-landline-director-gillian-robespierre/#.XBllv-JrxPY ...2018-12-311h 04
The Popcorn AuteurDavid ZuckerDavid Zucker was one of the creative minds behind Airplane and The Naked Gun films. He is now one of the creative minds behind the Scary Movie sequels. Luckily (we think), he didn't both write and direct those movies (officially). In this episode, we are joined by Sam Young to discuss the films of David Zucker . . . and to figure out how weird it is to see O.J. Simpson acting. Sorry for the poor audio quality. Sam was not in fact on the moon. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.jpost.com/Israel...2018-12-061h 17The Popcorn AuteurZach Braff vs. Josh RadnorA bonus this month - We take a break from the straight comedies to cover not one, but two filmmakers in our first ever "Battle" of the Network Stars. Zach Braff and Josh Radnor square off (sort of) to determine who is the sitcom star turned true auteur. It may be a little lazy of a comparison, but we had quite a bit of fun with this one. Show Notes/Sources: https://film.avclub.com/liberal-arts-1798174150 https://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/14/movies/liberal-arts-from-josh-radnor.html https://www.npr.org/2012/09/10/160892750/liberal-arts-a-lesson-in-arrested-development ...2018-10-311h 17
The Popcorn AuteurRichard AyoadeRichard Ayoade seems to to do it all: He's an actor, an author, a TV game show host, and (for our interests) he's a filmmaker. We weren't aware of any of this before this episode. Listen as we get to know Richard Ayoade's limited filmography and assess his potential as a filmmaker. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/submarine-2011 https://www.indiewire.com/2011/10/submarine-is-the-greatest-coming-of-age-movie-in-a-long-time-226641/ https://thedissolve.com/features/exposition/555-the-similarities-between-the-double-and-brazil-run/ https://thedissolve.com/features/exposition/555-the-similarities-between-the-double-and-brazil-run/ https://thedissolve.com/features/interview/552-richard-ayoade-on-the-double-and-daring-to-be-dark/ ht...2018-09-281h 04
The Popcorn AuteurDavid WainDavid Wain never seems to stop working. As a writer, director, and actor, his work can be seen nearly everywhere. In this episode, we are lucky enough to be joined by Jay Cluitt, shepherd over at The LAMB, to discuss the five films written and directed by David Wain; from the cult classic Wet Hot American Summer to box office success with Role Models. Show Notes/Sources: http://davidwain.com/bio/ http://davidwain.com/thestatebriefhistory/ https://www.newyorker.com/culture/richard-brody/wanderlust-and-the-new-comedy http://www.vulture.com/2017/08/why-david-wains-the-ten-is-still-sketch-gold-ten-years-later.htm...2018-08-241h 21The Popcorn AuteurChris RockYou may not think "filmmaker" when you think Chris Rock, but he's written and directed three films. His first two films were critical disappointments; however, his latest, Top Five, was certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. In this episode, we take a look at Rock's limited filmography to see if the comedian is a hidden auteur. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/top-five-filmmaker-chris-rock-753223 https://film.avclub.com/i-think-i-love-my-wife-1798202457 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWq8EfureAg http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/ct-top-five-review-20141211-column.html# ...2018-07-311h 04The Popcorn AuteurChristopher GuestChristopher Guest has a strong comedic pedigree (National Lampoon & SNL) and was a creator of the faux documentary, heavily improvised model of modern comedy. For this episode, we are joined by Jonathan Sundy (https://jollygoodgang.com/) to discuss the films of Christopher Guest. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36532132-improv-nation https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1180245.Best_in_Show https://www.theverge.com/2016/9/13/12900334/mascots-movie-review-christopher-guest-netflix-tiff-16 https://letterboxd.com/filmspotting/film/a-mighty-wind/ https://www.filmcomment.com/article/all-in-the-family-christopher-guest/ http://www.slate.com/art...2018-06-301h 11The Popcorn AuteurBen StillerYou may not initially think of Ben Stiller as a filmmaker, but he delivered a cult comedy with Zoolander. In this episode, we look at the small filmography of Ben Stiller and consider if there is more to him than starring in ridiculously successful movies. Also, is Zoolander 2 really that bad? Show Notes/Sources: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2016/07/25/lets-put-a-stop-to-the-movie-cameo-clown-car/?utm_term=.6e1837d9a123 https://film.avclub.com/heres-your-2-dollars-9-great-gags-from-otherwise-tep-1825478251 https://film.avclub.com/ridiculously-poorly-constructed-sequel-case-file-63-z-1798248460 http://articles.latimes.com/2001/sep/28/entertainment/ca-50732 2018-05-181h 03The Popcorn AuteurNicole HolofcenerYou may not be familiar with the works of Nicole Holofcener (we weren't), but she's directed some of the best reviewed female-led comedies in the past quarter century. We are joined by Rebecca Sharp of Almost Ginger to discuss Holofcener's films. Check out Rebecca's site here: http://almostginger.com/ Show Notes and Sources: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/nicole-holofcener-nails-it https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/7819156/Why-I-Love-Nicole-Holofcener.html https://www.rogerebert.com/cast-and-crew/nicole-holofcener https://soundcloud.com/employeeofthemonthshow/director-nicole-holofcener-on-her-upcoming-film-for-netflix-amazons-one-mississippi-and-money-and-sexism-in-hollywood http://www.talkhouse.com...2018-04-231h 10The Popcorn AuteurAdam McKayAdam McKay could have made a career of writing and directing Will Ferrell comedies, but he branched out with The Big Short and won an Oscar in the process. In this episode, we examine McKay's films and discuss his Trojan horse satire. Show Notes and Sources: https://youtu.be/2hFddhvb2-Q - video we reference in the oeuvre https://news.avclub.com/let-s-explore-adam-mckay-s-secretly-brilliant-brand-of-1798262144 https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/03/adam-mckay-to-film-michael-lewis-book-about-the-financial-crisis-which-makes-more-sense-than-you-think/359496/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/act-four/wp/2016/08/10/adam-mckay-on-talladega-nights-red-states-rebellion-and-the-rise-of-trump/?utm_term=.5564dfac6dea https://www.rogerebert.com...2018-03-291h 11The Popcorn AuteurMike JudgeMike Judge may be more successful on the small screen (Beavis & Butt-Head, King of the Hill, and Silicon Valley). But, while his film work has not met with the same commercial success, his movies have certainly developed a following. Despite Office Space and Idiocracy being box office failures, people still talk about them years after their release. In this episode, we critique the films of Judge and get into a conversation about Judge's worldview. Show Notes/Sources: http://www.ecuador.com/blog/mike-judge-the-ultimate-animator-from-ecuador https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/13/magazine/mike-judge-the-bard-of-suck.html h...2018-02-281h 07The Popcorn AuteurAmy HeckerlingShe's one of the most successful female filmmakers, but she hasn't had a hit in over 20 years. In this episode, we look at the films of Amy Heckerling, the filmmaker that brought us Clueless and Look Who's Talking. Have Heckerling's recent films gotten a fair shake? Does a film with a baby voiced by Bruce Willis deserve critical praise? Listen as we discuss these questions and more with special guest, Molly Staron. Show Notes/Sources: https://www.theringer.com/2017/2/16/16042696/amy-heckerling-fast-times-at-ridgemont-high-clueless-female-directors-ee9568144c24 https://thedissolve.com/features/movie-of-the-week/500-clueless-big-confidence-sells-its-small-stakes/ https://thedissolve.com/f...2018-01-291h 15The Popcorn AuteurMike BirbigliaMike Birbiglia is a stand-up comedian, an actor, and a filmmaker. In this episode, we'll take a look at Birbiglia's career behind the camera as a filmmaker for such films as Sleepwalk with Me and Don't Think Twice. Does Birbiglia have what it takes to be a 21st Century comedy auteur? Show Notes & Sources: https://film.avclub.com/nathan-rabin-sundance-2012-day-six-1798229514 http://theoldonespodcast.libsyn.com/ira-glass https://youtu.be/UmFvJzbNC_8 https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2016/03/dont-think-twice-mike-birbiglia-review http://beta.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-mike-birbiglia-ira-glass-sxsw-snl-this-american-life-20160316-story.html...2017-12-301h 02The Popcorn AuteurEdgar WrightEdgar Wright has had a camera in his hand for most of his life. Renown for his filmmaking and celebrated for his hilarious homages to classic genres, is there anything that Wright can’t do? Listen as we discuss Wright’s films from Shaun of the Dead to Baby Driver. Show Notes: https://youtu.be/3FOzD4Sfgag https://www.rogerebert.com/balder-and-dash/edgar-wright-i-am-a-film-school-reject-twice https://davechen.net/2014/02/the-making-of-that-close-ups-video-essay/ http://www.cinelinx.com/movie-stuff/item/4451-directors-trademarks-edgar-wright.html http://www.edgarwrighthere.com/about/ https://www.theguardian.com/film/20...2017-11-301h 04The Popcorn AuteurHarold RamisHarold Ramis is responsible for or has been involved in some of the greatest movies of all time. A comedy legend and one of, if not the most, influential comedy filmmaker of the last fifty years. We examine the highs and lows in his full career, and Jon may insult Robert De Niro's acting along the way. Show Notes and Sources: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2004/04/19/comedy-first http://www.vulture.com/2014/02/comic-legend-harold-ramis-dead-at-age-69.html http://www.cinelinx.com/movie-stuff/item/8755-examining-hollywood-remakes-bedazzled.html http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/analyze-that-2002...2017-10-311h 08The Popcorn AuteurJudd ApatowJudd Apatow has had his hand in some of the biggest comedies of the 21st Century, but only wrote and directed four films, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, Funny People, and This is 40. We rank those films and look at the defining features of Apatow's work. Is it dick jokes, man-children, or a realization that no one gets a "happy" ending? Show Notes: http://www.sfgate.com/movies/article/This-Is-40-review-This-is-not-funny-4135554.php https://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/?tag=Judd+Apatow https://youtu.be/3FOzD4Sfgag http://nerdist.com...2017-09-291h 15The Popcorn AuteurJohn HughesJohn Hughes was a major figure in the mainstream films of the 1980s. Writing films at a furious pace throughout the decade, his films have remained basic cable staples while finding a place in many a teenager's heart. This episode, we dive into the eight films written and directed by John Hughes from Sixteen Candles to Curly Sue. Join us for the laughs, the teen angst, and of course John Candy. Show Notes: http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/80s/content/john-cusack-still-seemingly-hates-80s-and-john-hughes-movies http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=88591800 2017-09-021h 10The Popcorn AuteurFrancis Ford Coppola - Part 2Francis Ford Coppola was one of the biggest filmmakers coming into the 1980s. Following multiple bankruptcies and a move into wine making, his more recent works have been largely ignored or quickly forgotten. Are we, the film viewing public missing something? Listen and find out. Hint: one of Coppola's later works contains Val Kilmer talking to a ghost of Edgar Allan Poe. Show Notes: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/twixt-toronto-film-review-233925 https://www.yahoo.com/movies/blogs/movie-talk/francis-ford-coppola-talks-twixt-competing-former-self-185226581.html http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/rumble-fish http://www.philly.co...2017-08-091h 08The Popcorn AuteurFrancis Ford Coppola - Part 1Francis Ford Coppola is giant of American cinema. He's won multiple Academy Awards and experienced a string of nearly unprecedented successes in the 1970s. Coppola has too many films to cover in one episode, so we are tackling him in a two-parter. Part 1 covers Coppola from the beginning to Apocalypse Now. Show Notes: https://thedissolve.com/features/interdisciplinary/158-francis-ford-coppola-takes-the-same-approach-to-wi/ https://thedissolve.com/features/movie-of-the-week/997-the-conversation-looked-ahead-to-a-world-without-p/ https://thedissolve.com/features/movie-of-the-week/1000-with-the-conversation-walter-murch-made-the-editor/ https://www.amazon.com/Godfather-Notebook-Francis-Ford-Coppola/dp/1682450740/ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1233293/The-maddest-movie-Why-Apocalypse-Now-finest-film-modern-times.html 2017-08-011h 10The Popcorn AuteurSeason 1 Recap Show10 filmmakers, 57 movies. We discuss the best and worst of what we watched in season 1. Also, we'll talk about what's next for our auteurs and The Popcorn Auteur.2017-05-3056 min
The Popcorn AuteurBrad BirdBrad Bird has worked with Steven Spielberg, consulted on the Simpsons, directed the cult classic The Iron Giant, won multiple Oscars with Pixar, and helmed a critically acclaimed chapter of the Mission Impossible series. Is there anything Brad Bird can't do? Perhaps a live-action film loosely inspired by part of an amusement park was a bridge too far. We are thrilled to be joined this episode by Jonathan Sundy, illustrator, character designer, and friend of the show. Listen as we discuss the philosophical underpinnings in Bird's works, the strength of his cinematic storytelling, and whether the ending of Tomor...2017-04-251h 01The Popcorn AuteurTerry GilliamTerry Gilliam is not the typical Hollywood filmmaker because he has rarely been a Hollywood filmmaker. Luckily, the lack of studio support has not stopped Gilliam from making unique and audacious films throughout his four-decade career. We'll examine the hits and misses among Gilliam's films and ask the important questions like: How does Gilliam blur the lines between dreams and reality? How does imagination play a central role in his filmmaking? And, how many of the cast of Time Bandits were later Ewoks in Star Wars? Join us as we dive into the wonderfully bizarre mind of Terry Gilliam. ...2017-03-211h 11The Popcorn AuteurAndrew StantonAndrew Stanton has been with Pixar since Toy Story and is responsible for some of the studio's biggest hits such as WALL-E and Finding Nemo; however, his attempt to make the transition to live action with John Carter fell flat. Will we find a hidden gem in Stanton's flop? Who will have more praise for WALL-E? Does Finding Dory signal that Stanton is getting lazy? Listen as we discuss the answers to these and more questions. Show Notes and Sources: http://io9.gizmodo.com/5892594/some-random-theories-about-why-john-carter-flopped http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/wall-e-2008 https...2017-02-2358 minThe Popcorn AuteurGeorge LucasGeorge Lucas may be the most talked and written about filmmaker in the history of movies. We take a fresh look at the full scope of Lucas's works, from THX 1138 to Revenge of the Sith. Will we find genius and ambition in the prequels or half-baked fan service? Will American Graffiti compare well to modern "gems" like Can't Hardly Wait and Superbad? Will Lucas ever direct again? Episode Notes and Sources: http://io9.gizmodo.com/star-wars-the-phantom-menace-doesnt-really-get-what-it-1742188503 http://io9.gizmodo.com/attack-of-the-clones-is-a-star-wars-wish-fulfillment-ch-1743553858 http://io9.gizmodo.com/sure-revenge-of-the-sith-is-the-best-star-wars-prequel-1744646183 http://io9.gizmodo.com/the-o...2017-01-271h 05The Popcorn AuteurThe WachowskisOn this episode of the Popcorn Auteur, Jon and Chris try to make sense of the ups and downs of the Wachowskis' fascinating filmmaking career. Will Jon and Chris find films to like outside of The Matrix? Perhaps Speed Racer deserve a fresh look. Will they be able to avoid making fun of Eddie Redmayne in Jupiter Ascending? Unlikely. Will Jon be comfortable in the unfamiliar role of defending the filmmakers? Listen and find out. Show notes/sources: http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2012/09/10/beyond-the-matrix http://io9.gizmodo.com/5954595/10-reasons-why-speed-racer-is-an-unsung-masterpiece http...2016-12-2357 minThe Popcorn AuteurAlfonso CuarónAlfonso Cuarón is our first Oscar winner for best directing and we were certainly impressed with his talent. Listen as we discuss the effectiveness of Cuarón's filmmaking technique, his worldview, and the potency of Children of Men in today's political climate. Will Jon be won over by Gravity? Will Chris understand how AIDs can be funny? Listen to find out. Note: We do our best with Spanish pronunciations . . . which are not very good. Show Sources and Notes: http://www.cracked.com/article_24342_8-times-studios-nearly-wrecked-your-favorite-movies.html http://www.cracked.com/article_24134_6-film-plots-directly-lifted-from-video-games.html2016-11-211h 01The Popcorn AuteurGeorge MillerGeorge Miller has a most curious filmography. The same man responsible for four Mad Max movies wrote and directed the Happy Feet movies and Babe: Pig in the City. In this episode, we rank the Mad Max saga, discuss the merits of Happy Feet (winner of an Academy Award), and delve into the mythology and messages of Miller's films. How did a low budget Australian action movie spawn a franchise? How are dancing penguins criticized as being anti-Christian? Listen as we try to answer these and more questions about this fascinating filmmaker. Show Notes and Sources...2016-10-2157 minThe Popcorn AuteurJoss WhedonJoss Whedon's cult success and comic book credentials led him to The Avengers, which still ranks as the highest grossing superhero movie. One of our favorites, Whedon's work ranges from science fiction to Shakespeare. Is Whedon a complete filmmaker? What can or will he do next? Listen as Jon and Chris discuss. Show Notes and Sources: http://mentalfloss.com/article/63120/qa-joss-whedon-super-heroes-killing-characters-and-existing-outside-pop-culture https://filmschoolrejects.com/23-things-we-learned-from-joss-whedons-much-ado-about-nothing-commentary-45ecf5e01278#.a6ld55t0w http://www.cinemablend.com/reviews/Serenity-1157.html http://io9.gizmodo.com/5905802/why-does-joss-whedon-always-kill-the-characters-we-love http://www.npr.org/2013/06/06/189113956/whedon-adapts-much-ado-about-nothing-for-silver-screen http://www.hitf...2016-09-1959 minThe Popcorn AuteurJJ AbramsJJ Abrams is one of the busiest men in Hollywood. Between his producing, writing, and directing credits, Abrams has already amassed a career's worth of credits. Yet, Abrams has only written and directed three movies: Mission Impossible III, Super 8, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Listen as Jon and Chris review the works of Abrams, assess his originality, and compare him to Dawson Leary. Show Notes and Sources: http://everythingisaremix.info/blog/everything-is-a-remix-the-force-awakens http://www.avclub.com/review/mission-impossible-iii-3966 https://youtu.be/bN-On2CusDM?t=5m48s https://youtu.be/viDu9S...2016-09-1245 minThe Popcorn AuteurChristopher NolanChristopher Nolan is one of the biggest and most ambitious filmmakers working today. Is he the Steven Spielberg of the 21st Century or a more talented M. Night Shyamalan? Is he a brilliant and innovative storyteller or a cold director relying on gimmicks to fool audiences? Jon and Chris try to answer these and more questions in our examination of Nolan's work to date. Show notes and sources: http://www.cracked.com/blog/4-christopher-nolan-movies-no-other-director-could-have-made/ http://www.cracked.com/quick-fixes/5-stupid-complaints-we-always-have-about-chris-nolan-movies/ http://thedissolve.com/features/exposition/820-the-rational-wonders-of-christopher-nolan/ http://grantland.com/hollywood-prospectus/the-c...2016-09-0757 min