Behind The Lens

Another full week on #BTLRadioShow as we continue our discussion on A THOUSAND MILES BEHIND with actor JEFFREY DOORNBOS who joins us live, plus our exclusive pre-recorded interview with writer/director JOSHUA CALDWELL as we talk about his new hot-button film INFAMOUS. He was unable to join us last week along with his director Nathan Wetherington, but actor JEFFREY DOORNBOS is with us live talking about getting into character, finding the soul of "Preston", and his performance in the powerful A THOUSAND MILES BEHIND. A longtime member of the acclaimed Blue Man Group in New York City, Jeffrey talks about how the creativity and lack of dialogue in his Blue Man performances proved an asset when finding the character of Preston in this film, as well as discussing working with Greg Evigan, Vanessa Campbell, and that Scrambler Ducati motorcycle, itself a character in the film. Jeffrey has some insightful thoughts on working with cinematographer Keith Dunkerley on becoming both one with the camera and dist

A more reflective show this week on #BTLRadioShow as we focus on two standout films – A CLEAR SHOT with our exclusive prerecorded interview with MARIO VAN PEEBLES, and A THOUSAND MILES BEHIND with our special live guest, director NATHAN WETHERINGTON. First up, we take a look at A CLEAR SHOT with our exclusive interview with MARIO VAN PEEBLES. A powerful film based on the true-life events of the largest hostage situation ever in the United States when a group of four Vietnamese youths stormed a Good Guys electronics store in Sacramento. A film that couldn't be more timely and topical in today's world, listen as Mario talks about the film and the characters – a melting pot of race, gender, ethnicity and the danger of what can happen in a divisive and discriminatory situation – plus, his thoughts on "two Americas" and where we stand as a nation, as a people, today in the aftermath of the George Floyd murder and global protests. Then, we welcome writer/director NATHAN WETHERINGTON live to

It's a full house on BEHIND THE LENS this week thanks to four fabulous filmmakers and two wonderful and very different films! First up we're talking the fascinating and frightening ALGORITHM: BLISS with writers/directors ISAK BORG and DENA HYSELL-CORNEJO. A thought-provoking and riveting tale of what happens when ethics, morals, technology, and sanity collide, ALGORITHM: BLISS boasts a mesmerizing performance by Sean Faris. Listen as Borg and Dena go in-depth talking about designing the color palette and visual tonal bandwidth of the film and its reliance on some outstanding production design, casting, and above all, the genesis of development of a story and subject as compelling as this. And then we go from darkness into the light with PUNCHING AND STEALING and writers/directors/actors RYAN CHURCHILL and DANNY PARKER-LOPES. A film of unfettered simplicity, sweetness, and sincerity that makes you laugh, makes you smile, and makes you want more, PUNCHING AND STEALING is a perfect counter to these s

An exciting #BTLRadioShow this week as we welcome back writer/director LISE RAVEN to talk about her wonderful film SNAELAND, plus our prerecorded exclusive interview with creator/writer/showrunner MARK BOMBACK talking about the riveting mini-series on Apple TV – DEFENDING JACOB. First up is our prerecorded exclusive interview with MARK BOMBACK, the creator and writer of the acclaimed hit mini-series, DEFENDING JACOB! Now before you take a listen, be warned – SPOILERS! Mark and I discuss all aspects of the show, including spoilers for those who haven't yet seen it, and because of that we purposely decided together to hold this interview until after the series finale aired this past weekend. Listen as we talk about everything from adapting William Landay's novel and some key changes to the story to Mark tackling a series versus a feature film to casting (and potential Emmy noms for Jaeden Martell and Cherry Jones) to the wearing of a very wide-brimmed production hat to deviating from the novel with

With a theme of cinematic atmosphere and a meld of past and present, this week on BEHIND THE LENS we take a look at two films – A NUN'S CURSE and UNION BRIDGE – and two exciting filmmakers – TOMMY FAIRCLOTH and BRIAN LEVIN. First up, take a listen to our prerecorded exclusive interview with writer/director/editor/cinematographer TOMMY FAIRCLOTH going in-depth with A NUN'S CURSE. Shot on location in a Civil War era prison, the story melds a present day road trip of four friends (one of whom is obsessed with all things nun-related, especially the legendary Sister Monday) with the prison's history, and Sister Monday's murderous legend, as the group is trapped inside the prison for the night. Stunning, rich visuals mesmerize while strong performances and story provide intrigue. Listen as Tommy digs deep into the production design and location, challenges and benefits of shooting within the walls of the prison itself, casting, cinematography and the use of light and focal length, and the film

Another busy week on BEHIND THE LENS thanks to our long-awaited special guest, writer/director/editor JONATHAN SMITH talking BATSH*T BRIDE, and our exclusive interview with writer/director/cinematographer JOHN BARR talking BLOOD AND MONEY. And how about some info on a little trivia contest happening this Saturday courtesy of HOLLYWOOD CRITICS ASSOCIATION. This week we're taking another walk down the aisle with BATSH*T BRIDE and writer/director/editor JONATHAN SMITH. Our regular listeners will recall that one of the film's stars, Chad Anthony Miller, was on the show last month and talked about the film from an actor's perspective. Now we get the man who created the hilarity! (I'm still wondering how many brides (or grooms) out there have pulled a prank like the one Heather pulls in this film!) Listen as Jonathan talks about the idea for the film and his journey in bringing it to fruition, finding the comedic tone while avoiding some more well-known bridal tropes, his casting process and f

The Force (and certainly the comedic force) is with #BTLRadioShow on this May the 4th Monday thanks to a jam-packed show and some fabulous guests; so jam-packed, in fact, the show expands to 90 minutes this week! First up, say "welcome back" to writer/director MICHELE REMSEN who is back with us talking about her hilarious anti-romcom TOSS IT and worldwide VOD (Amazon Prime, AppleTV) screenings which culminated in a live Zoom Q&A with Michele and some cast and crew on May 4th courtesy of NYWIFT. Then take a listen to writer/director/editor BRUCE DELLIS talking about his new film, RAISING BUCHANAN! Funny and sweet, with added charm thanks to Rene Auberjonois in one of his final screen appearances, here as President James Buchanan, RAISING BUCHANAN is a lighthearted gem that boasts an unforgettable performance by Amanda Melby while giving us a bit of a history lesson on a man often dubbed "America's Worst President". I loved speaking with Bruce about the "history" behi

An interesting mix of film focus this week on BEHIND THE LENS thanks to special guests and filmmakers, writer/director SEAN McEWEN and writer/co-director PAUL POMPA. First up, SEAN McEWEN talks about BRAKING FOR WHALES (now available on digital and VOD) starring Tom Felton and Tammin Sursok as siblings navigating life together while honoring their deceased mother's final wishes. Touching, funny, poignant, and at times bittersweet, a road trip well worth taking. Listen as Sean and I talk about the genesis of the story and bringing the reality of siblings and life's challenges to the screen in an organic manner while not descending into heavy drama, the effortless ease and chemistry between Felton and Sursok, pushing political correctness, the value of veteran comedians and actors like David Koechner and Wendi McLendon-Covey, the challenges of a "road trip" film without the benefit of a lengthy road trip, keeping a light visual tone through cinematography, the importance of score, and the

Two very different films. Two very different filmmakers in their approach and style. Two fascinating discussions on BEHIND THE LENS; one with director BAILEY KOBE talking about RAG DOLL, the other with writer/director/DP/editor CARLISLE KELLAM talking his new documentary COMFORT FARMS. First up is director BAILEY KOBE talking about his new film, RAG DOLL. A thoughtful introspective character study of a young woman entering her first MMA tournament, RAG DOLL boasts some excellent performances, notably from supporting actors Dot-Marie Jones and Stephanie Erb, not to mention, lead actress Shannon Murray, as well as some effective and evocative production use of slo-motion techniques, lighting and framing. Listen as Bailey goes in-depth talking about working with his cinematographer Aymae Sulick and designing the visual tonal bandwidth and use of camera framing, lighting and ECU's as emotional tools, casting, the importance of authenticity with the MMA fighting and corresponding concerns for added levels o

What a week on BEHIND THE LENS thanks to two incredible live guests, TYLER CORNACK and RYAN KOCH, talking their new film BUTT BOY, while two more fabulous filmmakers, CHRIS ROBERTI and JOSH ITZKOWITZ, talk their latest film SAME BOAT in an exclusive prerecorded interview. First up is our prerecorded exclusive interview with writer/director/actor CHRIS ROBERTI and writer/producer JOSH ITZKOWITZ talking about their new film, SAME BOAT. In over 33 years as a film critic, I have never described a "sci-fi" film as sweet, but this one certainly is. And the guys are an absolute delight with great candor and a wicked sense of humor on display throughout our conversation! Listen as we talk about the film's original idea of time traveling assassins with a mission to go back through time and eliminate those individuals who do "bad things" that hurt the planet and humanity. And in this case, they come back to stop an attorney who in several years creates a loophole in the law that allows pollut

#BTLRadioShow is back for another week in this time of Covid with a jam-packed and interesting show thanks to writer/director PI WARE talking about his latest documentary, SKIN DEEP: THE BATTLE OVER MORGELLONS, plus our exclusive interview with writer/director JONATHAN JAKUBOWICZ talking RESISTANCE! First up, take a listen to our exclusive prerecorded interview with JONATHAN JAKUBOWICZ as we go in-depth talking about his latest film, RESISTANCE. A relatively unknown chapter in the life of famed mime Marcel Marceau, we are transported back in time to WWII and occupied France with a young Marceau joining the French Resistance, helping to save hundreds of Jewish children from the Nazis. A powerful film that shines a light on history and an unsung hero, Jesse Eisenberg mesmerizes as Marceau with heartfelt authenticity and childlike charm, while Bella Ramsey shines as the young Elsbeth, a girl saved by Marceau after she witnessed the murder of her parents by the Nazis. Clemency Poesy is outstanding as a fellow R

What a show BEHIND THE LENS has for you this week! A little bit wild, a little bit wacky, and touched with a big splash of doo-wop, all thanks to our very special guests actor CHAD ANTHONY MILLER and director BRENT WILSON. CHAD ANTHONY MILLER was a co-host on the very first episode of #BTLRadioShow over six years ago. He is a wonderful comedic actor who celebrates and thrives on small independent films and it's a guarantee that whenever Chad is in a film, you know hilarity will ensue. And ensue it does on BTL as Chad joins us live to talk about his two latest projects – OPHELIA FALLS which you can watch right now on Amazon Prime, and the upcoming BATS**T BRIDE which releases on May 8. And then director BRENT WILSON joins talking about his latest documentary STREETLIGHT HARMONIES celebrating the history of Doo-Wop! Taking us on a musical journey back to the street corners of Philly and NY of the 50's with groups of kids gathering and singing under the streetlights, thanks to music historians and m

We may all be taking a licking in this time of covid-19, but we keep on ticking! And BEHIND THE LENS is here, hopefully, giving you some respite and distraction, especially when it comes to terrific filmmakers as guests! This week is a real treat thanks to actor ELLEN TOLAND and cinematographer JOSH FISHER who join us live talking INSIDE THE RAIN, plus our exclusive interview with writer/director/VFX/editor RONAN JORAH and producer/actor CAREY VAN DRIEST talking one of my most fave short films ever, SCRATCH. First up is our prerecorded exclusive interview with RONAN JORAH and CAREY VAN DRIEST talking their devilishly delicious short film SCRATCH! What happens on a dark and stormy night in a New Jersey diner when two murders occur and a mysterious patron has a date with the Devil? Ronan Jorah weaves a mesmerizing tale utilizing all the tools in the cinematic toolbox to create a visual and aural treat, stripping away color, heightening saturation, celebrating the importance and nuance of sound, and using camer

A fun-filled episode of BEHIND THE LENS this week guaranteed to distract you from these troubled times, thanks to filmmakers SHERI SUSSMAN and JULIE PACINO, plus our exclusive interview with actor JOSH O'CONNOR! JOSH O'CONNOR is everywhere right now. You can see him as Prince Charles in THE CROWN. You can see him as famed Jane Austen character Mr. Elton in EMMA in which he gives, what I believe is, the best and most entertaining Mr. Elton in any of the 10+ adaptations of Austen's tale. You can see him in the emotion-filled drama HOPE GAP playing son to Bill Nighy and Annette Bening. And you can hear him on #BTLRadioShow. We spoke with Josh in this exclusive interview talking about the diversity of his performances, and particularly that in HOPE GAP given the emotional complexity of the story and the cohesiveness of his character as a go-between with his parents. As Jamie, Josh pushes the envelope of his already well-heeled skillset. Then we welcome back writer/producer SHERI SUSSMAN to #BTL

Easily one of my favorite BEHIND THE LENS shows, and a long time coming, we welcome a very special guest this week, director/writer/producer MARK PELLINGTON. Mark has previously done pre-recorded interviews for #BTLRadioShow but thanks to his always busy schedule, this is the first time we've been able to have him on live (and it won't be the last). To say this is an insightful - and fun - show would be an understatement. Nothing was off-limits for this seasoned directorial veteran. Take a listen as we cover everything from film criticism to cameras to casting to story to surviving as a filmmaker in this every-changing landscape and adapting to and embracing those changes, and so much more. While Mark expounds his thoughts on cameras and lenses ("It's all about the glass") and all the tools in the filmmaker's toolbox, his reflection on his earlier films contrasting that with his latest projects, is interesting and thoughtful. And how about the importance of music in a film?

An exciting episode of BEHIND THE LENS this week thanks to EMMA DECKERS and JOEY TRAVOLTA! Originally scheduled to appear live on #BTLRadioShow, due to academic commitments she was unable to call in live, but EMMA DECKERS graciously agreed to do a prerecorded interview expressly for this show. Listen as Emma talks about her latest films and the craft of acting as an up and comer in the industry. With several films under her belt already, including a lead role in Dakota Gorman's NATURAL DISASTERS, Emma talks about her theatre training, the audition process, balancing work and school (she's working on her degree right now!), stage vs screen, and gaining experience in the producing world as well. Engaging and articulate with a wonderful sense of humor, I think you'll agree when you listen to Emma, the common sense approach and dedication she has to her craft, training, and life comes from her parents and a grounded and supportive upbringing. Can't wait to have Emma back on the show! And

This week BEHIND THE LENS goes global with writer/director RORY KINDERSLEY who joins us live from London talking about his new film, the psychological thriller EVE. A visually stunning film with high production values and killer cinematography courtesy of Douglas Milsome, it is impossible to look away from the unfolding intrigue as one is drawn into the web of slow-burning mania. Rory is an absolute delight as he talks about the importance of location, the unusual true events that led not only to the story of EVE, but also use of the primary location, his collaboration with Milsome in developing the visual tonal bandwidth through lens selection, sound design, score, and more. Rory's attention to detail and discussion on editing and the challenge of finding the perfect balance of fear and tension won't be lost on anyone. But before we get to Rory, #BTLRadioShow is celebrating ONWARD, the newest gem from Pixar. Enchanting, Funny, Heartwarming, and Fun for young and old alike, ONWARD is original n

He's baaaaack! That's right! STEVE LEE, sound guru and founder of THE HOLLYWOOD SOUND MUSEUM is back in-studio for his fourth visit to BEHIND THE LENS! And he's brought along some friends, little golden ones and human! Take a listen as we talk sound, sound, and more sound with Steve, as well as our other special guest, legendary "soundie" VICTORIA SAMPSON. A sound guru in her own right with more than 40 years of sound work to her credit, Vickie is also the daughter of Oscar-winning sound editor, KAY ROSE. Listen as Vickie goes in-depth talking about sound (including some helpful hints about preserving your hearing), working with her mother, and giving us plenty of behind-the-lens insight and anecdotes on many of the films she and/or her mother worked on, including one of my favorites, For The Boys. And we're never without sound trivia and the history of certain sounds and their origination in film when Steve is around. This show he's got a great clip, among others, of prod

Awards season may be over but film continues on and so does BEHIND THE LENS! Talk about a fun post-awards season/post-Oscars/post-Spirits show! #BTLRadioShow is jam-packed and fun-filled thanks to four very special guests as we sprinkle some Valentine's love on two new films opening this week. After a recap of the weekend's final awards ceremonies - the Academy Awards and the Film Independent Spirit Awards - we welcome our first pair of guests - writer/director/editor PAUL OSBORNE and, returning for his second time to BTL, actor PATRICK DAY discussing their latest film CRUEL HEARTS. What would you do if you were sitting at work, minding your own business, going over financials, and a man sits down next to you and says, "I've been sleeping with your wife."? And that's what kicks off CRUEL HEARTS; a noir film that boasts a smart and smartly constructed script, nice production values, a beautiful visual texture, keen editing, and terrific performances starting with Patrick Day.

It's another week of female filmmakers and Oscar nominees on BEHIND THE LENS as we welcome the mother-daughter filmmaking dynamic duo of NICOLE RIO and DAKOTA GORMAN, plus our exclusive interview with Oscar nominee for Best Original Song, JOSHUAH BRIAN CAMPBELL! First up on this week's show is our exclusive interview with Oscar Nominee, JOSHUAH BRIAN CAMPBELL, talking about his nomination with Cynthia Erivo for Best Original Song for "Stand Up" from HARRIET ! Unfortunately, due to his attendance at the Oscar Nominees Luncheon, Joshuah was unable to call in live, but he graciously gave up his time on Sunday to talk with me about the song, the film, his musical process, collaborating with double Oscar Nominee Cynthia Erivo, and how music is an extension of his faith. Listen to our conversation now! At age 25, Joshuah is already a wonderful and accomplished young man and a divinity school student! And then hilarity ensues with veteran producer NICOLE RIO (mom) and writer/director/actor DA