BELOW THE LINE PODCAST

S21 - Ep 4 - Rescue: HI-Surf - Cinematography Nov 17, 2024

It’s easy to assume that working on “Rescue: HI-Surf”, the Hawaii-based action drama currently airing on Fox, would be akin to a vacation for the crew. Filming on the North Shore of O’ahu, however, is a difficult undertaking even before you mix in the challenge of the ocean itself. Cinematographer Anka Malatynska and Water Unit Director of Photography Don King split the lensing duties at the waterline, and, together, they make this show work. Ready to go behind the scenes? Let’s ride this wave.

S21 - Ep 3 - 84 Charlie MoPic and Combat Camera Nov 10, 2024

This episode - in honor of Veterans Day - is about “84 Charlie MoPic”, the 1989 feature film about small unit operations during the Vietnam War, and our star-studded panel includes Director Patrick Duncan, Cinematographer Alan Caso and Producer Michael Nolin. Joining me as co-hosts are Jim Stayton and Al Gerloff, current friends and former colleagues from my pre-Hollywood days with Combat Camera. This conversation is one that my late father, himself a veteran of the Vietnam War, would have enjoyed very much, and it made for a really special episode. I hope you enjoy it.

S21 - Ep 2 - Bottle Rocket - Assistant Directing Nov 03, 2024

Wes Anderson’s 1996 feature film debut, “Bottle Rocket,” introduced a larger audience to both Wes’s unique filmmaking style and the acting chops of brothers Owen and Luke Wilson. It’s fair to say that the careers of all three received a big assist from this film’s veteran assistant director team — Jim Goldthwait (1st AD), Heather Kritzer (Key 2nd AD) and Jimmy Flowers (2nd 2nd AD) — who helped shepherd this classic film from script to screen over then course of a 40-day shoot. I speak with the team about filming in 90’s Texas, teaching Set Protocols 101, and how the crew knew when the party room at the Hillsboro Days Inn was open for guests.

Interested in the script, the shooting schedule, call sheets, or other materials from the film? The AD team has made all of that and a treasure trove of photos available here:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1904r6Cgyv4dlhBis5wS9_uzB2uDOHVcu?usp=share_link

S21 - Ep 1 - The Penguin - Costume Design Oct 27, 2024

Costume Designer Helen Huang and Assistant Costume Designer Austin Wittick return to the podcast to discuss their work on “The Penguin”, the eight-episode series currently streaming on HBO/Max. The series is a spin-off and sequel to 2022’s “The Batman”, Director Matt Reeve’s take on the iconic superhero. While the Penguin was a supporting role in the film, played by an almost unrecognizable Colin Farrell, here he is the primary character for more than eight hours of television. Helen and Austin talk about the challenge of wardrobing for an entire series while remaining true to the original concepts.

S20 - Ep 10 - The Old Man - Props Oct 13, 2024

Propmaster and friend of the show Scott Buckwald returns to the podcast with stories about his work on “The Old Man”, the Jeff Bridges-led spy drama currently airing its second season on FX. Two years ago, Scott and I talked about the first season with a focus on the challenges faced by production; this time, adversity is an ongoing theme but we’re more focused on the props. (You would think that Scott was ready for that, but decide for yourself: he kind of comes across as a little surprised.)

S20 - Ep 9 - Freelance Camera: MLB, Access Hollywood and Beyond Oct 06, 2024

And without further delay, the Major League Baseball playoffs are upon us! My guest today, Rick Nyburg, has been a freelance camera operator for more than 30 years. He’s here to share stories not only about his time covering MLB games (Go Dodgers!), but also his multiple backstage interactions with Hollywood talent, the surprising reaction of the NASA team that landed the lander on Mars, and the evolving challenge of working freelance camera across three decades.

S20 - Ep 8 - Sugar Studios and Indie Post-Production Sep 22, 2024

Shepherding an independent film from script to screen is hard: financial constraints don’t change the amount of work to be done. But when it comes to post-production, Jijo Reed, Founder and CEO of Sugar Studios, thinks his company can be part of the solution. Sugar Studios offers everything from Dailies and Editorial to Color, Mix, VFX and Deliverables under one roof: a synergistic opportunity that, for an indie project, can mean the difference between picture lock and post-production limbo. Jijo and I also discuss the state of the Industry, what runaway production means for LA, and the potential impact of AI on the post-production process.

S20 - Ep 7 - Casting and the Academy Awards Sep 15, 2024

Last March, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the addition of a new Oscar category: Best Achievement in Casting. Allison Estrin, an NYC-based casting director whose credits include “Billions”, “The Other Two”, “Bupkis”, and a slew of movies, joins me today and graciously answers my questions about the craft. We also talk about the Artios Awards, the honor by which the Casting Society of America has been honoring casting professionals since 1985, and what we might expect for the first slate of Oscar nominations in 2026.

S20 - Ep 6 - Food Styling: From Julia to Boba Fett Sep 08, 2024

Today we’re talking about the craft of Food Styling, and I’m joined by two guests with expertise to share. Christine Tobin (“Little Women”, “Julia” and “The Holdovers”) and Melissa McSorley (“Chef”, “Mad Men”, and various Star Wars projects) discuss where Food Styling fits into the larger film set environment, and we compare how period, contemporary and futuristic storylines trigger different food styling challenges.

S20 - Ep 5 - What's Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing Aug 18, 2024

“What’s Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing” is a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories from former cast members Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack, and I’m thrilled to host them on this episode of the podcast and talk about the book (which was just published last week). Our conversation is both a teaser for the release and a chance to explore some of the set stories in more detail, and we discuss how the theme of service runs through the entire endeavor. Since the West Wing is among my assistant director credits, this was also a nice trip down memory lane for me and a wonderful opportunity to catch up.

S20 - Ep 4 - The Dead Don’t Hurt - Costume Design Aug 11, 2024

“The Dead Don’t Hurt” is an indie western written and directed by Viggo Mortenson, who also starred in the film and composed the score. Costume Designer Anne Dixon joins me to discuss both the challenges of working on a multinational, low-budget film, the rewards of working with Viggo and the tone he sets (both on set and in front of the camera), and little easter eggs that thread through the entire film. It had a theatrical run earlier this summer and is now available for streaming.

S20 - Ep 3 - Mayor of Kingstown - Score Composition Aug 04, 2024

Today we’re talking about “Mayor of Kingstown”, the Taylor Sheridan-produced series starring Jeremy Renner. Score Composer Andrew Lockington returns to the podcast to discuss his contributions across all three seasons, and composer Louis Weeks joins me once again to provide a colleague’s perspective. “Mayor of Kingstown” streams on Paramount+, and the finale of the third season is airing today. Relevance!

S20 - Ep 2 - Property Masters Guild and the MacGuffin Awards Jul 28, 2024

Regular listeners know that this podcast has a lot of respect for the film contribution of props, and we’re excited to discuss the recent endeavors of the Property Masters Guild (founded January 2021). Mikey Trudel and Chris Call, who both serve on the Board of Directors, discuss the PMG’s efforts serving both the society of property masters and the larger community of people who are interested in the craft. We also talk about the first ever MacGuffin Awards, which will be awarded in LA on September 14, 2024, and the PMG’s official podcast, Prop Talk (which they both host).

S20 - Ep 1 - Avatar: The Last Airbender - Costume Design Jul 21, 2024

Netflix’s eight-episode adaptation of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” was well-received by critics and fans alike, and two more seasons are on the way. Costume Designer Farnaz Khaki-Sadigh discusses the challenge of adapting the popular animated series for live action, and we dive deep into the major battle scenes from the first and last episodes of season one.

S19 - Ep 8 - Fallout - Set Decoration and Props May 12, 2024

“Fallout”, the eight-episode video game adaptation currently streaming on Prime, is retro-futuristic apocalyptic chaos at its best. The series has been applauded by gamers and non-gamers alike, and today’s guests — Set Decorator Regina Graves, Propmaster Michael Jortner and Propmaster Peter Gelfman — share story after story about the effort and creativity it took to bring the aesthetic of the game to a live-action show. Finally, it wouldn’t be a video game adaptation podcast without Gianni Damaia, who joins me once again as co-host. Don’t miss the accompanying photo album on our Facebook page.

S19 - Ep 7 - Manhunt - Costume Design May 05, 2024

It’s a two-guest show! Recreating the historical drama of Apple TV+’s “Manhunt” so it’s relatable to a modern audience was a challenge for both Costume Designer Katie Irish and 1st Assistant Director Gary Goldman. No matter what you think you know about Lincoln’s assassination and the 12-day manhunt that followed, Katie and Gary share some details that I bet will surprise you. Visit our Facebook page for an album of photos that illustrate what we’re talking about.

S19 - Ep 6 - Ripley - Score Composition Apr 28, 2024

“Ripley” -- the stylish eight-episode series currently streaming on Netflix -- is a very deliberate bit of filmmaking. While the black-and-white filming and exquisitely framed shots draw attention to the cinematography, today co-host Louis Weeks and I are speaking with Score Composer Jeff Russo. We explore how Jeff’s relationship with the character of Ripley evolved over time, and Jeff illustrates how this score is an integrated aspect of the storytelling. (Jeff also draws parallels between his collaboration with creator Steve Zaillian and his time as a founding member of the rock band, Tonic, which itself is worth the price of admission.)

S19 - Ep 5 - Before I Change My Mind - Theater-Rooted Filmmaking Apr 14, 2024

“Before I Change My Mind” is a wonderful coming-of-age story with a twist: the gender of our protagonist, Robin (played by Vaughan Murrae), is indeterminate throughout the film. Writer/Director Trevor Anderson shares how his extensive theater experience — and the support of the Edmonton theater scene — was integral to the making of this movie. We also talk about how it’s even possible to set a film in the Alberta, Canada, of 1987 for only half a million dollars (American). Trevor’s answer, which he also credits to his theater experience? A focus on character.

S19 - Ep 4 - Drugstore June - Cinematography Apr 07, 2024

“Drugstore June”, starring Esther Povitsky, is a refreshingly low-key comedy that I sincerely enjoyed. Indie filmmaking is challenging, and Cinematographer Sherri Kauk explains how she worked with Director Nicholaus Goossen and the rest of the crew on issues of budget and schedule, ensuring that they got the most bang for their limited buck. She also shares insights that I wouldn’t have picked up on my own, like the different visual style of each act and how she plays with color throughout the film. And lest you think I forgot: I ask about that two-foot tall gummi bear baby.

S19 - Ep 3 - Griselda - Makeup Mar 31, 2024

“Griselda”, currently streaming on Netflix, stars Sofia Vergara as the titular cocaine kingpin, prominent in the Miami drug scene of the 1970s and 1980s. The role is a change of pace for the former “Modern Family” star, and my guest Angela Nogaro, Makeup Department Head for the series, was part of the team that made Sofia’s transformation possible. We talk about the challenges of designing makeup for a period-set project and how everyone came together in support of the vision (actors included).

S19 - Ep 2 - Sexy Beast - Producing and Editing Mar 24, 2024

The Paramount+ series “Sexy Beast”, with all eight episodes currently streaming, is a prequel to Jonathan Glazer’s 2000 film of the same name. My guest is Producer and Editor Matthew Barber, who joined the production to help establish the tone of the series and worked as an editor on the first and last episodes. We talk about the challenges of doing a prequel series to the well-respected film, and we break down specific scenes from an editor's perspective. The State of the Podcast is strong! Check it out.

S19 - Ep 1 - Oppenheimer - Props at the Oscars Mar 17, 2024

“Oppenheimer” cleaned up at the Academy Awards last weekend, claiming seven statues for its 13 nominations. My guest this episode is the film’s Propmaster, Guillaume DeLouche. Achievement in Propmastering isn’t recognized with an Oscar, but today, we’re going to discuss how props contributed to all of the nominations and wins for Christopher Nolan’s magnum opus. Yes, even Original Score! Oh, and Guillaume and I first worked together back in 2000, so it’s a reunion of sorts. Good times! Join us.

S18 - Ep 12 - 96th Oscars - Propmastering Mar 05, 2024

BONUS EPISODE! Propmastering is not recognized with an Oscar, but what if it was? Gregg Bilson, Jr. (President of mega-prop conglomerate ISS) and Scott Buckwald (property master and friend of the podcast!) discuss a hypothetical slate of films that could be nominated for their props. This episode wraps our Academy Awards coverage, but if you've listened to the entire series, I promise you'll be the smartest person at your Oscars party.

The 2023 Nominees for Propmastering:

•“The Creator”

•“Last Voyage of the Demeter”

•“Napoleon”

•“Oppenheimer”

•”Poor Things”

S18 - Ep 11 - 96th Oscars - Original Song Mar 02, 2024

The Academy Awards are only a week away, and today we’re discussing the Oscar nominees for Original Song. My guests — Chris Molanphy (chart analyst and podcast host), Louis Weeks (score composer), and Tom Peyton (song writer) — offer an assessment of these nominees that encompasses both the technical and the meta.

The 2023 Nominees for Original Song:

•"The Fire Inside" from "Flamin' Hot"

•"I'm Just Ken" from "Barbie"

•"It Never Went Away" from "American Symphony"

•"Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)" from "Killers of the Flower Moon"

•"What Was I Made For?" from "Barbie"

S18 - Ep 10 - 96th Oscars - Original Score Feb 28, 2024

Our tour through the technical categories continues with a discussion of the Oscar nominees for Original Score. My guests — Louis Weeks (score composer), Chris Molanphy (chart analyst/pop critic), and Jennie Armon (executive producer/music supervisor) — offer a multi-layered set of insights.

The 2023 Nominees for Original Score:

•"American Fiction"

•"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny"

•"Killers of the Flower Moon"

•"Oppenheimer"

•"Poor Things"

S18 - Ep 9 - 96th Oscars - Film Editing Feb 25, 2024

The Oscar nominees for Film Editing compose an interesting slate of films this year, and editors Christopher Angel and Amy Duddleston return to share their insights. For those following along at home, you may be amused to know that they disagree on the merits of at least one of these movies, but they both reinforced my opinion about the one nominee I’ve elsewhere suggested was overrated. What drama! Join us for a listen.

The 2023 Nominees for Film Editing:

•"Anatomy of a Fall"

•"The Holdovers"

•"Killers of the Flower Moon"

•"Oppenheimer"

•"Poor Things"

S18 - Ep 8 - 96th Oscars - Makeup and Hairstyling Feb 22, 2024

Our Academy Awards series continues with a discussion of the Oscar nominees for Makeup and Hairstyling. Joining me today are Angela Nogaro (Makeup) and Yvonne Depatis-Kupka (Hair), discussing not only the nominated films but - once again - questions about the selection process and who is considered part of the team. Why is there only one name on the team for “Oppenheimer”? We offer some thoughts.

The 2023 Nominees for Makeup and Hairstyling:

•"Golda"

•"Maestro"

•"Oppenheimer"

•"Poor Things"

•"Society of the Snow"

S18 - Ep 7 - 96th Oscars - Cinematography Feb 19, 2024

Film professionals discussing the nominees in their area of expertise: that’s Below the Line at the Oscars. Today, we’re talking about Cinematography, and my returning guests — Patrick Cady and David Tuttman — are directors of photography with stories to share.

The 2023 Nominees for Cinematography:

•"El Conde"

•"Killers of the Flower Moon"

•"Maestro"

•"Oppenheimer"

•"Poor Things"

S18 - Ep 6 - 96th Oscars - Costume Design Feb 16, 2024

Costume Designers Helen Huang And Allison Choi Braun return to offer their insights on this year’s Oscar nominees for Costume Design. We mark our halfway point through the Academy Awards season with another great conversation, discussing not only the five nominated films but also how the craft of costume design is such an integral aspect of the filmmaking collaboration.

The 2023 Nominees for Costume Design:

• "Barbie"

•"Killers of the Flower Moon"

•"Napoleon"

•"Oppenheimer"

•"Poor Things"

S18 - Ep 5 - 96th Oscars - Animated Feature Feb 13, 2024

It’s difficult to sell 12 episodes of Oscars coverage, but if you appreciate the work done by crew, you’re going to appreciate this season, where film professionals discuss the nominees in the category of their expertise. Today’s animated conversation about the nominees for Animated Feature benefits from returning guests, Kent Seki and Camille Leganza. Have YOU seen Oscar nominee “Robot Dreams”? It's the rare case of a nominated film that I didn't get to see, so no spoilers about that one.

The 2023 Nominees for Animated Feature Film:

•“The Boy and the Heron“

•"Elemental"

•"Nimona"

•"Robot Dreams"

•"Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse"

S18 - Ep 4 - 96th Oscars - Production Design Feb 10, 2024

We’re continuing our deep dive discussions about the Oscar nominees in the technical categories, and today, Production Designer Bob Shaw and Set Decorator Regina Graves - Oscar nominees themselves - offer their insights about the five nominees for Production Design.

The 2023 Nominees for Production Design:

•"Barbie"

•"Killers of the Flower Moon"

•"Napoleon"

•"Oppenheimer"

•"Poor Things"

S18 - Ep 3 - 96th Oscars - Visual Effects Feb 07, 2024

It’s non-stop conversations about the Oscar nominees in the technical categories from now until the Academy Awards, and I hope you'll follow us for the full season. Today, Kent Seki and Chris Batty return to discuss the nominees for Visual Effects. This year, it looks like any of these nominees could deservedly take the prize. Join us for insights about the surprising group of contenders in this rapidly evolving field.

The 2023 Nominees for Visual Effects:

• "The Creator"

• "Godzilla Minus One"

• "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”

• “Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One"

• "Napoleon"

S18 - Ep 2 - 96th Oscars - Directing Feb 04, 2024

Below the Line continues our Fifth Annual Oscar Series with a discussion of the nominees for achievement in Directing, and I’m joined by a returning panel of fellow below-the-liners: Katie Carroll, Bill Hardy, Roger Mendoza and Shaun O’Banion. It’s the first year we’ve discussed the directors nominated for the Academy Award, but it’s in lieu of our traditional conversation focused on the Directors Guild of America nominees (the DGA crowns their winners next weekend, Feb 10th). Same panel, same topic, but a slightly different focus; the episode runs long, but I hope you’ll enjoy it.

The 2023 Nominees for Directing:

•"Anatomy of a Fall"

•"Killers of the Flower Moon"

•"Oppenheimer"

•"Poor Things"

•"The Zone of Interest"

S18 - Ep 1 - 96th Oscars - Sound Feb 01, 2024

Our Fifth Annual Oscar Series begins now! Once again, we’ve got panels of film professionals discussing the nominees in their category of expertise. First up: Oscar nominee Steve Morrow (production sound mixer) and Oscar winner Don Sylvester (sound editor) discuss this year's nominees for Sound.

The 2023 Nominees for Sound:

•“The Creator”

•“Maestro”

•“Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One”

•“Oppenheimer”

•"The Zone of Interest”

S17 - Ep 11 - Gen V - Film Editing Dec 01, 2023

Now for something completely different! “Gen V” is a bombastic and provocative take on the Superhero genre, and Film Editor Maura Corey threads a needle balancing the action, the satire, and the humor from scene to scene. Gianni Damaia returns to the co-host seat, and - once again - it’s a laugh-out-loud conversation that I hope you’ll enjoy as much as we did.

S17 - Ep 10 - Aftersun - Film Editing Nov 10, 2023

2022’s “Aftersun” is a slow-burn of a movie which nonetheless resonated with a sizable audience, and Film Editor Blair McClendon brings us inside the collaboration that sits at the center of this film (which is currently streaming on Showtime and Paramount+). Fellow editor (and friend of the podcast) Christopher Angel identified “Aftersun” as an overlooked gem when we discussed Oscar nominees at the start of 2023, and he joins me today in the co-host chair to help tease out what made this rule-defying film so successful.

S17 - Ep 9 - Hatching - Filming in Latvia Oct 27, 2023

“Hatching”, a successful Finnish horror film currently streaming on Hulu, is a good case study for exploring the differences between European filmmaking and the U.S. studio system. I’m joined today by the Producer of “Hatching”, Mika Ritalahti, and two Executive Line Producers from Mistrus Media Film Production, Gints Grube and Elina Gedina. While the film is from Finland, principal photography was conducted in Riga, Latvia, and my panel shares how this entertaining movie came together.

S17 - Ep 8 - Dungeons & Dragons - Visual Effects Oct 07, 2023

“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” was released in theaters early this year and is now streaming on multiple platforms. Tyler Cordova, Co-Visual Effects Producer, is here to explain how practical effects and visual effects work together to create the magic of the film. And for the first time on the podcast: we’re discussing specific scenes in real time! Let us know if it works.

S17 - Ep 7 - Jack Ryan - Production Design Sep 29, 2023

“Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” wrapped earlier this year after four seasons on Amazon Prime, and Production Designer Derek Hill is here to offer behind-the-scene insights for a team that was based out of Budapest but filmed across Europe, from Greece to Croatia to the Canary Islands. Oh, and COVID: there was COVID.

S17 - Ep 6 - Twisted Metal - Costume Design Sep 22, 2023

Costume Designer Liz Vastola talks about her work on “Twisted Metal”, the comedy/action video game adaptation currently streaming on Peacock. I’ve never played the video game, but co-host (and fellow podcaster) Gianni Damaia brings some hard-won expertise to our laugh-out-loud discussion of the series.

S17 - Ep 5 - Special Ops: Lioness - Score Composition Sep 01, 2023

Score Composer Andrew Lockington talks about his work on Taylor Sheridan’s “Special Ops: Lioness” (currently airing on Paramount+), and co-host Louis Weeks (composer, recording artist, and friend of the podcast) provides another layer of insight to our conversation. We discuss Andrew’s work on multiple levels, from the intention behind specifics pieces of score to the larger themes that inform the overall arc of the story.

S17 - Ep 4 - KINO: Financial Inequities and the Future of Film Aug 27, 2023

My guest is Daril Fannin, CEO of Kino Studios. We talk about how Daril’s experiences as an army veteran, writer and executive producer led to the founding of Kino, with the goal of making Hollywood more open, equitable, efficient and diverse. Kino also runs a robust behind-the-scenes program which emphasizes - you guessed it - the contributions of Below the Line talent (www.kino.studio).

S17 - Ep 3 - The Menu - Assistant Directing Aug 20, 2023

2022’s “The Menu” was an intriguing film that defied genre expectations. WIth 14 principle cast members and a tight shooting schedule, it was also a logistical challenge of epic proportions. First Assistant Director Gary Goldman takes us behind the scenes with stories about the cast, the supporting background, and the food. I mean, the FOOD: it was another character, both on and off the set.

S17 - Ep 2 - Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - Cinematography Aug 04, 2023

“Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” - now in its second season on Paramount+ - continues to make the familiar franchise new again. Director of Photography Benji Bakshi talks about how cinematography contributes to the genre-uniqueness of each episode, and we talk in detail about the recently-aired, first-ever Star Trek musical episode.

S17 - Ep 1 - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Aug 04, 2023

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” - in theaters now - is both a cutting-edge computer-animated feature and a really enjoyable film. Head of Cinematography Kent Seki and Art Director Arthur Fong share how an emphasis on the “teenage” element of the title characters informed every aspect of the filmmaking over a course of production spanning more than three years.

S16 - Ep 10 - Hellraiser (2022) - Production Design Jul 30, 2023

The “Hellraiser” film released late last year on Hulu was a creative reimagining of Clive Barker’s 1987 original. Production Designer Kathrin Eder discusses the challenge of rebooting a 35-year-old horror classic, Director David Bruckner’s reliance on practical effects wherever possible, and bringing all of these elements together while filming in Serbia.

S16 - Ep 9 - The Flash - Sound Editing Jul 23, 2023

“The Flash”, the latest DC superhero to earn a solo outing on the big screen, may be a spectacle of visual effects, but Sound Editors John Marquis and Nancy Nugent Title are here to explain why the movie experience is affected as much by what you hear as what you see. The integration is key, but recognizing the contributions of sound can unlock a completely new understanding of the film.

S16 - Ep 8 - The DGA Agreement: How They Got to Yes Jul 16, 2023

On June 23rd, the Directors Guild of America ratified a new three-year agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP); the vote was 87% in favor. Today I’m discussing the agreement with Kevin Koster, who works as a 1st Assistant Director, served as a member of the negotiating committee, and is a returning guest to the podcast.

S16 - Ep 7 - Beef - Costume Design Jul 09, 2023

Costume Designer Helen Huang and Assistant Costume Designer Austin Wittick return to discuss their work on “Beef”, the 2023 Netflix limited series starring Stephen Yeun and Ali Wong. We take the opportunity to discuss not only how costume design contributes to this story behind the scenes but how diversity is important for all the stories that Hollywood wants to tell.

S16 - Ep 6 - A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors Jul 02, 2023

Today we’re talking about 1987’s “A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors”, and I’m joined by an all-star panel of guests. 1st Assistant Director Dennis Maguire, Production Designer Mick Strawn, and Director of Photography Roy Wagner tell the tale of a difficult shoot that was nonetheless the basis for friendships that have endured for more than 35 years.

S16 - Ep 5 - The WGA Strike: Unions in Solidarity Jun 11, 2023

As the Writers Guild of America strike enters its second month, I’m joined by Kerri Wood Einertson (National Director for Government Affairs & Public Policy, SAG-AFTRA), Tyler McIntosh (Political/Legislative Director, IATSE), and Michael Wasser (Assistant to the President and Legislative Director, DPE) to discuss how the WGA contract issues resonate with the other entertainment industry unions.

S16 - Ep 4 - Babylon - Production Sound Jun 04, 2023

Today we’re talking about "Babylon", Damien Chazelle’s 2022 epic feature set during the early years of Hollywood, and my returning guest is Production Sound Mixer Steve Morrow.

S16 - Ep 3 - Quasi - Hair and Makeup May 28, 2023

"Quasi" is a lighthearted comedy from the Broken Lizard comedy troupe currently streaming on Hulu, and my guests today are the Hair and Makeup Department Heads, Lorna Reid and Amy Sparks.

S16 - Ep 2 - The WGA Strike: Why It’s Happening May 21, 2023

The Writers Guild of America has been on the picket line for three weeks, and Lowell Peterson, WGA-East Executive Director, joins me to talk about the negotiations, the issues at stake for the union, and what to expect now that the strike is underway.

S16 - Ep 1 - SNAG - First-Time Directing May 14, 2023

THE PODCAST IS BACK. To kick off the new season, I’m joined by writer/director/producer/actor Ben Milliken to discuss his directorial debut, “SNAG”, which is currently available to stream on demand.

S15 - Ep 12 - Below the Line at the 95th Oscars Mar 19, 2023

We’re wrapping up our coverage of awards season with a look at the Oscars ceremony itself, and my guests are three quarters of the sound team nominated for their work on "Elvis". Wayne Pashley, David Lee and Michael Keller bring a below-the-line perspective to the honor of “just being nominated”, the challenge of bringing guests to the Academy Awards, and the differences between what they experienced live versus what the rest of us observed on the broadcast. And if you want to hear about the after-parties? Listen to the end if you’re curious about Baz Lurhmann’s AFTER after-party at Chateau Marmont.

S15 - Ep 11 - 95th Oscars - Cinematography Mar 08, 2023

It’s been 10 episodes of film industry professionals sharing the benefits of their expertise, and we’re concluding our Oscar series with an in-depth look at the nominees for Cinematography. My returning guests — Patrick Cady and David Tuttman — are directors of photography with stories to share. Enjoy the Academy Awards this weekend! I hope our insights have prepared you for the ceremony. (10 of 10)

S15 - Ep 10 - 95th Oscars - Original Song Mar 05, 2023

The Academy Awards are only a week away, and today we’re discussing the Oscar nominees for Original Song. My guests — Chris Molanphy (chart analyst and podcast host), Louis Weeks (score composer), and Tom Peyton (song writer) — offer an assessment of these nominees that encompasses both the technical and the meta. (9 of 10)

S15 - Ep 9 - 95th Oscars - Costume Design Mar 01, 2023

The art of Costume Design can be subtle in ways that are often under-appreciated, and I’m very grateful to have Helen Huang (Costume Designer) and Austin Wittick (Assistant Costume Designer) offer their expertise to discuss this year’s Oscar nominees in the category of Costume Design. (8 of 10)

S15 - Ep 8 - 95th Oscars - Production Design Feb 26, 2023

Our deep dive exploration of the Oscars’ technical categories is in the home stretch, and today we’re focused on Production Design. I’m happy to welcome Eve McCarney (Production Designer), Julie Drach (Set Decorator), and Kerry Weeks (Lead Man) to discuss this year’s nominees. (7 of 10)

S15 - Ep 7 - 95th Oscars - Original Score Feb 23, 2023

Our tour through the technical categories continues with a discussion of the Oscar nominees for Original Score. My guests — Louis Weeks (score composer), Chris Molanphy (chart analyst/pop critic), and Jennie Armon (executive producer/music supervisor) — offer a multi-layered set of insights. (6 of 10)

S15 - Ep 6 - 95th Oscars - Sound Feb 19, 2023

Our 4th annual series of subject-matter experts discussing the Oscar nominees in the technical category of their expertise reaches the halfway point, and I'm joined again this year by Steve Morrow (production sound mixer) and Don Sylvester (sound editor) to discuss this year's nominees for Sound. (5 of 10)

S15 - Ep 5 - 95th Oscars - Animated Feature Feb 15, 2023

Our Oscars series continues with a lively discussion about this year’s nominees for Animated Feature with returning guests, Kent Seki and Camille Leganza. My takeaway from the conversation: they know everyone that works in this space! Mix in a thoughtful analysis of the five films, and it makes for a session that should prove both enjoyable and enlightening. (4 of 10)

S15 - Ep 4 - 95th Oscars - Film Editing Feb 12, 2023

We’re kicking off a new week of Oscars coverage with a discussion of the nominees for Film Editing. My guests - editors Christopher Angel and Amy Duddleston - return to the podcast with hot takes, informed insights, and more than a hint as to their favorites among this year’s Academy Awards Film Editing nominees. (3 of 10)

S15 - Ep 3 - 95th Oscars - Makeup and Hairstyling Feb 08, 2023

Our Academy Awards series continues with a discussion of the Oscar nominees for Makeup and Hairstyling. Joining me once again are Angela Nogaro (Makeup) and Yvonne Depatis-Kupka (Hair) with hot takes on these five films, questions about the Academy’s process, and - for good measure - notes on what will make them turn off a movie, no matter the technical skill on display. (2 of 10)

S15 - Ep 2 - 95th Oscars - Visual Effects Feb 05, 2023

Welcome back for our Annual Academy Awards series: four years running and still going strong. For each of the next 10 episodes, I’ve assembled a panel of film professionals to discuss the nominees in the technical category of their expertise. Today, Kent Seki and Chris Batty return to discuss this year's Oscar nominees for Visual Effects. (1 of 10)

S15 - Ep 1 - 75th DGA Awards - Theatrical Feature Films Jan 29, 2023

Welcome to Awards Season at Below the Line! We're starting with the 75th Annual DGA Awards, and for the fourth year in a row, I’ve assembled a panel of fellow below-the-liners — Katie Carroll, Bill Hardy, Roger Mendoza and Shaun O’Banion — to discuss the five films recognized by the Directors Guild of America for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film. How did we rank them? Answers at the end of the podcast.

S14 - Ep 10 - Growing Up on Set Dec 18, 2022

Podcast Season Finale! David Dorfman worked as a child actor for more than a decade, co-starring alongside such notable talent as Bill Macy (“Panic”), Naomi Watts (“The Ring”), Robert Downey Jr. (“The Singing Detective”) and Owen Wilson (“Drillbit Taylor”). We discuss not only his career in Hollywood but also the below the line ecosystem that both protects and supports minors on set.

S14 - Ep 9 - Blonde - Hair and Makeup Dec 11, 2022

In Netflix’s “Blonde”, Ana de Armas delivers an electric performance as Marilyn Monroe, and her portrayal is amplified by some of the most painstakingly accurate hair and makeup work I’ve ever seen on screen. Jaime Leigh McIntosh (Hair) and Tina Roesler Kerwin (Makeup) led their respective departments through this audacious endeavor, recreating more than 100 iconic looks over the course of a 45-day shoot (wait, what?! do the math!).

S14 - Ep 8 - Five Days at Memorial - Film Editing Dec 04, 2022

“Five Days at Memorial”, the Apple TV+ limited series that aired earlier this year, wants to do more than recap the tragic events that took place at Memorial Hospital in the wake of Hurricane Katrina: it endeavors to present the story in an authentic and emotionally-resonant way. Editor JoAnne Yarrow shares some of the techniques she utilizes to deliver that emotional impact, and we compare the challenges of this assignment to her Emmy-nominated work on her previous show, “Only Murders in the Building”.

S14 - Ep 7 - Grown-ish - Cinematography Nov 27, 2022

Director of Photography Mark Doering-Powell has received two Emmy nominations for his work on “Grown-ish”, the spin-off of ABC’s “Black-ish” currently airing its fifth season on Freeform (and streaming on Hulu). Mark shares how cinematography helps establish a collegiate look that distinguishes itself from the parental perspective of the original, and we discuss in cinematic detail the fourth season episode recognized at this year’s Emmys.

S14 - Ep 6 - Kidding: Execution of a Scene Nov 20, 2022

Showtime’s “Kidding”, starring Jim Carrey, aired two 10-episode seasons from 2018 to 2020. If you’re not familiar with the show, it’s worth checking out. Today, though, 1st Assistant Director Katie Carroll and Set Dresser Phil Bufano are sharing insights about a specific scene they filmed for the third episode of Season 1. The scene itself is a marvel of what crew can do without visual effects, and you can watch it yourself at www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0ykvDu-jUw (it’s only two minutes long).

S14 - Ep 5 - World War Z: From Book to Screen Nov 13, 2022

Sometimes a movie adaptation is true to the book that inspired it; other times . . . there are compromises. My guest today is Max Brooks, author of "World War Z", the 2006 novel upon which the 2013 film (produced by and starring Brad Pitt) was loosely based. Max takes us along for the journey, from the bidding war (sorry, Leo!) to the premiere (and what Max wanted to say to Brad but didn’t). Join us wherever you get your podcasts.

S14 - Ep 4 - Donnybrook - Production Design Nov 06, 2022

2018’s “Donnybrook”, now streaming from multiple sources, is both an engaging action drama and an examination of poverty in the United States. That’s no small feat, and I’m happy to welcome back Production Designer Michael Perry to share his contributions in service of this film’s lofty ambitions.

S14 - Ep 3 - Storytelling in the Age of Climate Change Oct 30, 2022

Climate change is real, and how best to respond is an ongoing debate. But other than producing an environmental disaster movie every other year, what can Hollywood contribute to the conversation? My guests today, Pam Rittelmeyer (former camera assistant, now Postdoctoral Scholar of Science Governance at UC Davis) and Rae Binstock (playwright, screenwriter, and co-writer of the Climate Storytelling Playbook) discuss how the Industry is engaging the issue and how all of us — filmmakers and audience members alike — can be part of a storytelling realignment.

S14 - Ep 2 - Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin - Cinematography Oct 23, 2022

A critique of the horror genre that often rings true is its tendency to rely on the “male gaze”, where the film both presumes and caters to the heterosexual male viewer. “Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin”, which recently concluded a 10-episode season on HBO Max, is doing something different. Cinematographer Anka Malatynska talks with me about reinterpreting horror tropes from a female perspective and the collaboration required to deliver on this idea.

S14 - Ep 1 - Representing Below the Line Oct 16, 2022

Everybody knows that actors and directors have professional agents, but what about the crew? Sometimes the people behind the scenes need people of their own. To kick off Season 14, Marilyn Lintel (Storyline Public Relations) and Craig Mizrahi (Innovative Artists) join me to talk about representing Below the Line talent.

S13 - Ep 10 - The Old Man: Production vs Adversity Sep 25, 2022

Principal photography for the “The Old Man”, the FX series starring Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow that ran for seven episodes earlier this year, started in November 2019 but didn’t finish until March 2022. Propmaster Scott Buckwald returns to the show to discuss the complexities of navigating first COVID and then Jeff Bridges’s lymphoma diagnosis over the course of bringing this dynamic series to the screen.

S13 - Ep 9 - Everything’s Trash - Prod Design and Cinematography Sep 18, 2022

Production Designer Joshua Peterson and Cinematographer Adam McDaid talk about collaborating on “Everything’s Trash”, the Brooklyn-based sitcom starring Phoebe Robinson as a podcaster facing adulthood (streaming on Hulu). They talk about Brooklyn as a character and how both their departments deal with the crazy challenge of reflective surfaces. And of course we all agree that podcasters are HOT right now.

S13 - Ep 8 - The Princess - Hair and Makeup Sep 11, 2022

“The Princess”, currently streaming on Hulu, is basically an extended fight sequence: Joey King, the titular heroine, can only escape her prison tower by battling through an army of mercenaries. Now imagine filming those scenes — out of order — over a period of 12 weeks, and you have an inkling of the challenge faced by the Hair and Makeup Designer Lynda Armstrong. Lynda speaks with me about the pleasure of working with Joey and the difficulty of getting hair products delivered from London to Bulgaria in a timely fashion (thanks, Brexit).

S13 - Ep 7 - Masters of Make-Up Effects: The Book Sep 04, 2022

Pair Oscar-winning makeup effects artist Howard Berger with veteran film journalist Marshall Julius, and what's the result? A globe-spanning selection of makeup artists sharing the secrets of their craft. Both Howard and Marshall are here this week to discuss “Masters of Make-Up Effects”, a new compendium that will soon be on the bookshelf of every film buff you know. Learn more about the book and upcoming signings at mastersofmakeupeffects.net.

S13 - Ep 6 - Elvis - Sound Design Aug 28, 2022

Baz Luhrmann’s “Elvis”, like all of his films, is an audacious fusion of sight and sound, and Wayne Pashley, the owner/co-founder of Big Bang Sound Design, has been working with Baz for more than 30 years. Credited as the re-recording mixer, sound designer and supervising sound editor on “Elvis”, Wayne is uniquely qualified to talk about the “sonic glue” that helps hold the whole construct together.

S13 - Ep 5 - The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - Props Aug 21, 2022

“The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” is a Nicolas Cage film that’s basically . . . a riff on Nic Cage. Principal photography took place in Hungary and Croatia, but two weeks of LA reshoots gave Property Master Mikey Trudel a chance to work his craft closer to home. Adhesive finger tape that delivers a knock-out chemical? Yeah, that’s a complicated prop.

S13 - Ep 4 - Our Flag Means Death - Assistant Directing Aug 14, 2022

HBO Max’s “Our Flag Means Death” is 10 episodes of comedy that manages to be both thoughtful and absurd, delivered by an all-star cast and a rotation of hilarious guest stars. 1st Assistant Director Emily Hogan returns to the show to talk about wrangling this ensemble through a series of unexpected adventures, including the Mystery of the Disappearing Beach and The Boat They Built on Stage.

S13 - Ep 3 - Marcel the Shell with Shoes On - Production Design Aug 07, 2022

"Marcel the Shell with Shoes On" is an unexpected pleasure: amusing, poignant, and heartwarming in equal measures. It’s also a major technical achievement, and Production Designer Liz Toonkel talks about the challenge of creating the whimsical world of Marcel and his shell community within the limitations of a reality where the principle character is 1-inch tall.

S13 - Ep 2 - Black Hawk Down, Part II Jul 31, 2022

For the second half of our look at Ridley Scott’s “Black Hawk Down”, Harry Humpries (Senior Military Advisor) and Kimberley Ann Berdy (LA Production Coordinator) dive deep into the challenges of filming those epic battle scenes in Morocco. Plus, Kim joined the crew in country for what sounds like a pretty epic wrap party.

S13 - Ep 1 - Black Hawk Down, Part I Jul 24, 2022

Season 13 starts off with a look at “Black Hawk Down”, Ridley Scott’s 2001 epic war film. My guests are Senior Military Advisor Harry Humpries and LA Production Coordinator Kimberley Ann Berdy, and the first half of our two-part discussion focuses on pre-production: sending the actors to military training camp, purchasing helicopters that production could actually destroy, and getting everything to Morocco in time for filming to begin.

S12 - Ep 11 - The First Lady - Makeup Jun 19, 2022

“The First Lady”, now finishing its inaugural season on Showtime, takes the audience behind the scenes through a century of Presidential history. Makeup Department Head Carol Rasheed talks about designing First Lady looks that typify each historical period while remaining timeless. Oh, and we also talk about Barack Obama’s ears.

S12 - Ep 10 - Roar - Production Design Jun 12, 2022

“Roar” is a show with something to say, and Production Designer Todd Fjelsted talks about reinforcing that message through all eight episodes of this Apple TV+ anthology series. Budget and schedule always complicate production efforts where anthologies are concerned but — as Todd explains — this project also offered a degree of freedom that’s unusual in the Industry.

S12 - Ep 9 - The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey - Cinematography Jun 05, 2022

Storytelling is more than just what the script describes, and today we’re talking with Cinematographer Shawn Peters about how his work on Apple TV+’s “The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey” helped shaped the look of the limited series. We also talk about Shawn’s unusual career path, and - for listeners who stick around to the end - how collaborating on set is like being in a relationship.

S12 - Ep 8 - Station Eleven - Costume Design May 29, 2022

Costume Designer Helen Huang returns to the podcast to talk about “Station Eleven,” the 10-episode miniseries that aired on HBO Max last winter. This was probably my favorite tv series of both 2021 and 2022 (so far), and it was interesting to speak with Helen about designing for a post-apocalypse where hope is not dead.

S12 - Ep 7 - Big Fish - Screenwriting May 22, 2022

Of all my work in Hollywood, 2003’s “Big Fish” was one of my favorite projects (I was the 2nd 2nd Assistant Director). For this episode, I’m joined by screenwriter John August, who I met when he visited us on location in Alabama. John talks about working with Tim Burton and the challenges of being a writer on set. Oh, and did you know there was a Broadway adaptation of the movie? I had a few questions about that as well.

S12 - Ep 6 - Promising Young Woman - Production Design May 15, 2022

2020’s “Promising Young Woman”, despite its limited budget and short shooting schedule, is a tour de force. My guest today, Production Designer Michael Perry, talks about approaching each set with either “masculine” or “feminine” intentions, and how those intentions subtly contribute to the overall story.

S12 - Ep 5 - The Walking Dead - Grips May 08, 2022

“The Walking Dead” will wrap it’s 11-season run on AMC later this year. The series is filmed just outside Atlanta, and my guests today — Best Boy Grip Frankie Zamora and Grip Nicole Higgins — talk about their work on Season 10 of the show. Do Grips on Walking Dead work much harder than the Electric Department? Listen and decide for yourself.

S12 - Ep 4 - 1883 - Film Editing May 01, 2022

Taylor Sheridan’s “1883”, currently available on Paramount+, is a prequel to the hugely successful “Yellowstone” series (four seasons of which are exclusively available on NBC’s Peacock streaming service). My guest today is the Lead Editor, Chad Galster, who shares stories about how his long relationship with Taylor informs his work on this standalone, attention-getting series.

S12 - Ep 3 - Ghostbusters: Afterlife - Sound Apr 24, 2022

2021’s “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” is both a continuation of and an homage to the original Ghostbusters story. Not only can fans see the tribute on the screen, they can hear it in the soundscape. Today I’m joined by Production Sound Mixer Steve Morrow, Supervising Sound Editor Perry Robertson, and Re-recording Mixer/Supervising Sound Editor Will Files to explore how the iconic sounds of the original are an integral aspect of the new film.

S12 - Ep 2 - The Gilded Age - Set Decoration Apr 17, 2022

“The Gilded Age”, which recently concluded its first season on HBO Max, explores the various social forces at play in the New York City of 1882. The theme of old money vs new money is reflected in the sets themselves, and Set Decorator Regina Graves joins me to discuss the challenges and rewards of bringing this period drama to life.

S12 - Ep 1 - Below the Line at the 94th Oscars Apr 10, 2022

Welcome to Season 12 of the podcast! We’re kicking it off with a look back at this year’s Oscars ceremony, specifically the Academy’s decision to prerecord eight of the 23 awards during the hour preceding the live broadcast, and then air edited segments during the ceremony itself. Set Decorator Rena DeAngelo (nominated this year for her work on West Side Story) tells us what happened during that hour of pre-show taping, and Writer/Director/Editor Christopher Angel (who last joined us to discuss this year’s nominees for Film Editing) analyzes how those early acceptance speeches were censored for the telecast.

Season 11 - Ep 10 - Oscars - Cinematography Mar 24, 2022

It’s been 10 episodes of film industry professionals sharing the benefits of their expertise, and we’re concluding our Oscar series with an in-depth look at the nominees for Cinematography. My guests — Patrick Cady and Shawn Peters — are directors of photography with stories to share. Enjoy the Academy Awards this weekend! I hope our insights have prepared you for the ceremony. (Episode 10 of 10).

Season 11 - Ep 9 - Oscars - Visual Effects Mar 21, 2022

The Academy Awards are less than a week away, and we’ve got two episodes to go. Today, we’re discussing the Oscar nominees for Visual Effects. Industry veterans Kent Seki and Chris Batty bring their expertise for a wide-ranging and animated discussion. (Episode 9 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 8 - Oscars - Original Score Mar 17, 2022

Music is back! Week Four of our Oscars coverage concludes with an enlightening conversation about Original Score. My returning guests - Louis Weeks, Chris Molanphy, and Mick Coogan - once again offer insights about this year’s nominees that will most definitely wow you. (Episode 8 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 7 - Oscars - Film Editing Mar 14, 2022

Are you following the series? Week Four of our Oscars coverage kicks off with a review of the nominees for Film Editing. My guests - Christopher Angel and Amy Duddleston - are editors with a wealth of experience to share when discussing this year’s Academy Awards nominees. (Episode 7 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 6 - Oscars - Makeup and Hairstyling Mar 10, 2022

Week Three concludes with a discussion of the Oscar nominees for Makeup and Hairstyling. My guests — Angela Nogaro (Makeup) and Yvonne Depatis-Kupka (Hairstyling) — have opinions. I think you’ll enjoy them. (Episode 6 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 5 - Oscars - Original Song Mar 07, 2022

Week Three: our tour through the technical categories continues with a discussion of the Oscar nominees for Original Song. My returning guests — Mick Coogan (song writer), Louis Weeks (score composer), and Chris Molanphy (chart analyst and fellow podcast host) — offer a multi-layered set of insights. (Episode 5 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 4 - Oscars - Animated Feature Mar 03, 2022

This episode of our Oscar series features a discussion of the nominees for Animated Feature. Ready for some behind-the-scenes insights? My guests, Kent Seki and Camille Leganza, bring more than 40 years of animation experience to the panel, and it makes for an informative and lively conversation. (Episode 4 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 3 - Oscars - Production Design Feb 28, 2022

It’s Week Two of our Oscars coverage, where film industry professionals offer insights in the category of their expertise. Today we’re focused on Production Design, and I’m happy to welcome back Sam Lisenco (Production Designer), Regina Graves (Set Decorator), and Kerry Weeks (Lead Man) to discuss this year’s nominees. (Episode 3 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 2 - Oscars - Costume Design Feb 24, 2022

Our 3rd Annual Academy Awards coverage continues, and today we turn our attention to this year’s Oscar nominees for Costume Design. My panelists, Allison Choi Braun and Helen Huang, are both veteran costumer designers (and returning podcast guests!) with insights to share. (Episode 2 of 10)

Season 11 - Ep 1 - Oscars - Sound Feb 21, 2022

Our 3rd Annual Academy Awards coverage starts now! Each episode, a panel of subject-matter experts discuss the nominees in the technical category of their expertise. Today, I'm joined by Steve Morrow (production sound mixer) and Don Sylvester (sound editor) to discuss this year's Oscar nominees for Sound. (Episode 1 of 10)

Season 10 - Ep 8 - DGA Awards - First-Time Features Feb 17, 2022

This year, the Directors Guild of America nominated six directors for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in First-Time Feature Film. I’m joined again by Katie Carroll, Bill Hardy, Roger Mendoza and Shaun O’Banion to discuss these films from a below-the-line perspective.

Season 10 - Ep 7 - DGA Awards - Theatrical Feature Films Feb 14, 2022

Welcome to Awards Season! For the third year in a row, I’ve assembled a panel of fellow below-the-liners — Katie Carroll, Bill Hardy, Roger Mendoza and Shaun O’Banion — to discuss the five directors recognized by the Directors Guild of America for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film. How did we rank them? Answers at the end of the podcast.

Season 10 - Ep 6 - Hawkeye Feb 10, 2022

The tv shows set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe almost always have a parallel filming unit focused on the stunts and action sequences, and “Hawkeye” (the latest to stream on Disney+) is no exception. Two members of Hawkeye’s 2nd Unit, 1st Assistant Director Tim Fitzgerald and Cinematographer Darin Moran, discuss how their team aligned with the overall production effort.

Season 10 - Ep 5 - The Gesture and the Word Feb 03, 2022

Writer/Director/Producer Helen Alexis Yonov and Cinematographer Matt Rodgers join me today to discuss their recent project, “The Gesture and the Word”, a 23-minute short film that was in limited release for most of 2021 (logging 87 festivals and 65 awards). It’s a lively conversation, exploring the complexities of the production and the nuances of the festival circuit. The film is currently streaming for all audiences at Omeleto.com/257318/

Season 10 - Ep 4 - The Witcher Jan 27, 2022

“The Witcher”, currently streaming on Netflix, is a rousing mashup of monsters, mages, and mayhem. My guest today, Cinematographer Romain Lacourbas, talks about his work on the second season and how interdepartmental teamwork is a critical component of the production mix.

Season 10 - Ep 3 - Invasion Jan 20, 2022

Apple TV+’s “Invasion”, with storylines spanning four continents, was an epic production in terms of both scale and scope. My guests today — Production Designer Loren Weeks, Leadman Kerry Weeks, and Set Dresser Dan Fisher — discuss how the art department met the challenges of this massive undertaking.

Season 10 - Ep 2 - The Shrink Next Door Jan 13, 2022

“The Shrink Next Door”, currently streaming on Apple TV+, stars Will Ferrell and Paul Rudd as patient/therapist, tracking their dysfunctional relationship over more than three decades. My guest today, Costume Designer Helen Huang, discusses how wardrobe is an important aspect of the storytelling.

Season 10 - Ep 1 - Planet of the Apes Jan 06, 2022

I was the DGA Trainee on Tim Burton’s "Planet of the Apes" (2001), and I’m joined today by some fellow crew members with stories to share: Douglas Noe (Ape Makeup), Kevin Haney (Ape Makeup), Steve Thorp (Electric), and Ryan Miningham (Production Office) reminisce with me about our days together on set.

Season 9 - Ep 14 - 8-Bit Christmas Dec 23, 2021

"8-Bit Christmas", currently streaming on HBO Max, is a holiday nostalgia tale reminiscent of "A Christmas Story" but set in the 80s and trading its Red Ryder air rifle for a Nintendo Entertainment System. My guest today is Avery Plewes, the film’s Costume Designer. Happy Holidays!

Season 9 - Ep 13 - The Matrix - Visual Effects Dec 16, 2021

"The Matrix", the 1999 sci-fi classic written and directed by the Wachowski siblings, is rightfully praised for its groundbreaking visual effects. My guest today is Diana Giorgiutti, Digital Effects Producer for all three films in the original trilogy.

Season 9 - Ep 12 - Tick, Tick . . . Boom! Dec 09, 2021

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s directorial debut, “Tick, Tick . . . Boom!”, both features and reflects upon the creative works of Jonathan Larson, best known as the creator of the Broadway musical, Rent. My guests today are the film's editors, Andy Weisblum and Myron Kerstein, who discuss the challenges of shepherding this ambitious adaptation from script to screen.

Season 9 - Ep 11 - Women Below the Line Dec 02, 2021

My guests today - Melanie Ragone, Melissa Beaupre, and Nicole Higgins - are women who work in below the line film crew specialties typically dominated by men. We discuss the challenges and rewards of being film industry pioneers, and what attracted them to these careers in the first place.

Season 9 - Ep 10 - The Chronicles of Narnia Nov 25, 2021

The 21st Century has seen three film adaptations of C.S. Lewis’s Narnia books: “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” (2005), “Prince Caspian” (2008) and “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader” (2010). Howard Berger, my guest today, supervised the prosthetic makeup for all three films, and he won an Oscar for his work on the first. In addition to discussing this effort, our conversation places Howard’s work within the context of his storied career.

Season 9 - Ep 9 - The Harder They Fall Nov 18, 2021

In “The Harder They Fall”, currently streaming on Netflix, Jonathan Majors and Idris Elba are opposing outlaws, leading their respective gangs into a classic Old West showdown through a series of expectation-defying twists. Film Editor Tom Eagles speaks with me about the journey from page to screen for this stylish western, the first feature-length film from Director Jeymes Samuel (aka The Bullitts).

Season 9 - Ep 8 - Combat Camera, Revisited Nov 11, 2021

Today is Veterans Day, and, to honor the occasion, I’ve once again invited a panel of Combat Camera veterans to talk about their time in uniform. My guests - Jim Stayton, J.R. Cole, and Fred Johnson - reminisce with stories covering nearly 50 years of Combat Camera history . . . and still find time to laugh about the foibles of a certain L.T. for whom they once worked. Oh, and remember in 2008 when Air Force One flew over NYC at low altitude? We’ve got the inside scoop on that.

Season 9 - Ep 7 - Last Night in Soho Nov 04, 2021

Edgar Wright’s latest film, “Last Night in Soho” (starring Thomasin McKenzie and Anya Taylor-Joy), is one of his most ambitious projects to date. My guest today is Re-Recording Mixer and Supervising Sound Editor Julian Slater, whose collaboration with Edgar Wright spans six films. Spoiler Alert: Soho is best enjoyed in the theater, and you’ll definitely want to see it there before joining us on this episode of the podcast.

Season 9 - Ep 6 - Man of the House Oct 28, 2021

“Man of the House”, the 2005 action-comedy starring Tommy Lee Jones as a Texas Ranger, is not well reviewed. It is, however, a film I worked on, as a consultant for a company called Big Crowds. Our mission was to fill a football stadium with background fans . . . or at least make it look that way on camera. My guests today — Alexa Sheehan, Ken Twohy, and Damon Chang — were members of my team.

Season 9 - Ep 5 - L.A. Confidential Oct 21, 2021

“L.A. Confidential”, the 1997 film starring Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, and Guy Pearce, is an exceptional adaptation of James Ellroy’s novel about police and crime in 1950s Los Angeles. It was directed by Curtis Hanson, and my guests today are members of his assistant director team: Jim Goldthwait (Key 2nd AD), Heather Kritzer (2nd 2nd AD), and Kevin Koster (DGA Trainee). This was a challenging but rewarding film project for everyone involved, and we’ve got the stories.

Season 9 - Ep 4 - Buffy the Vampire Slayer Oct 14, 2021

I was a DGA Trainee on the fourth season of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, and I’m joined today by some of my crew mates: Todd McIntosh (Makeup Supervisor), Athena Alexander (Key 2nd AD), and Douglas Noe (Makeup Artist). We share stories from the set of this iconic Joss Whedon/Sarah Michelle Gellar series . . . and have a fun time catching up.

Season 9 - Ep 3 - American Horror Stories Oct 07, 2021

Today we’re talking about “American Horror Stories”, the weekly anthology show helmed by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, itself a spin-off of their long running series, “American Horror Story” (now in its 10th season). My guest is the Production Designer, Eve McCarney, who talks about the challenges of building a new world every week while remaining true to the aesthetic of the original show.

Season 9 - Ep 2 - IATSE Contract Negotiations Sep 30, 2021

Contract negotiations between the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) are at a challenging juncture. My guests — Mike Loomer (Local 44), Dave Tuttman (Local 600), and Michael Taylor (Local 728) — discuss the union’s concerns and the possibility of a strike.

Season 9 - Ep 1 - Below the Line at the Emmys Sep 23, 2021

Today we’re discussing the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards, and my Emmy-nominated guests — Amy Duddleston (“Mare of Easttown”), Geoff O’Brien (“Framing Britney Spears”), Alexandra Fehrman (“The Boys”) and Rich Weingart (“The Boys”) — share stories from this year’s ceremonies.

Season 8 - Ep 14 - The Social Dilemma Sep 02, 2021

Today we’re talking about “The Social Dilemma”, a documentary about the manipulative and dangerous aspects of our online social activity currently streaming on Netflix. My guests are the Emmy-nominated cinematographers, John Behrens and Jonathan Pope, who split oversight of the documentary and narrative portions of the film but share responsibility for the cohesive look and feel.

Season 8 - Ep 13 - The Boys Aug 26, 2021

Today we’re talking about “The Boys”, the audacious and dark superhero series currently streaming on Amazon Prime. My guest is Alexandra Fehrman, Sound Mixer for both seasons and recent Emmy nominee for her work on the Season 2 finale.

Season 8 - Ep 12 - Loki Aug 19, 2021

2021’s “Loki”, with all six episodes currently streaming on Disney+, is a surprisingly enjoyable expansion of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. My guest today, Douglas Noe, both led the makeup department for the series and was the personal makeup artist for Tom Hiddleston, the continuation of a relationship that began with 2012’s “The Avengers”.

Season 8 - Ep 11 - Framing Britney Spears Aug 12, 2021

“Framing Britney Spears”, the New York Times investigative documentary released in February 2021, explores the conservatorship that Britney Spears has been living under since 2008, specifically within the larger context of her career and celebrity. My guests today - Geoff O’Brien and Pierre Takal - are the editors of the film.

Season 8 - Ep 10 - Below the Line: The Book Aug 05, 2021

Today my guests are a pair of Industry veterans - JR Helton ("Below the Line", the book) and Mike Taylor ("Confessions of a Hollywood Juicer", the blog) - who talk about the code of silence that surrounds most film productions and why they decided to break it.

Season 8 - Ep 9 - Just Like Heaven Jul 29, 2021

I was the 2nd 2nd Assistant Director on Just Like Heaven, the 2005 Mark Waters feature starring Reese Witherspoon and Mark Ruffalo. My guests today are two other members of our AD team: Key 2nd AD Eric Pot and Production Assistant Taylor Phillips. We laugh about the challenges of filming in San Francisco and the extensive stage work involved once we returned to Los Angeles.

Season 8 - Ep 8 - Legacies Jul 22, 2021

Today we're talking about Legacies, which recently concluded its third season on The CW Network. My guests are the Co-Department Heads for Creature Effects, Mark Villalobos and Heather Mages, and we're joined by the Assistant Stunt Coordinator, Jeremy Conner. Bring on the monster talk!

Season 8 - Ep 7 - Mare of Easttown Jul 15, 2021

Mare of Easttown, the 2021 HBO series starring Kate Winslet, is a nuanced interplay of murder mystery and community drama. My guest is the Film Editor, Amy E. Duddleston, whose work on the series was recognized with two Emmy nominations earlier this week.

Season 8 - Ep 6 - Into the Wild Jul 08, 2021

Today I’m discussing Into the Wild (the 2007 biopic directed by Sean Penn and starring Emile Hirsch) with the film’s Production Designer, Derek Hill. Derek also shared a lot of photos: after listening to the podcast, listen to Derek’s narrated slide show on our YouTube channel or Facebook page.

Season 8 - Ep 5 - Digital Tools for Film Production Jul 01, 2021

Film production is undergoing a digital revolution, and the pandemic has only accelerated it. My guests today — Michael R. Williams (Think Crew), Sam Patton (Castifi), and Alex LoVerde (SyncOnSet) — represent three companies at the forefront of this effort. We talk about the challenges on set for which digitization is the solution, and how the integration of digital tools will propel film production into the future.

Season 8 - Ep 4 - Bosch Jun 24, 2021

As Amazon Prime prepares to release the seventh and final season of Bosch (starring Titus Welliver), I’m joined by an all-star panel to discuss Seasons 1 through 6: Frank Tignini (Unit Production Manager), Patrick Cady (Director of Photography), Trey Batchelor (1st Assistant Director) and Robert Paulsen (Location Manager) tell stories from the set.

Season 8 - Ep 3 - In the Heights Jun 17, 2021

In the Heights, the Jon M. Chu film adaptation of the Lin-Manuel Miranda musical (and already one of the best-reviewed films of the year), is currently in theaters and streaming on HBO Max. My guest is the film's editor, Myron Kerstein, and we talk about the challenges of adapting this story for the big screen (and completing post-production in the midst of the pandemic).

Season 8 - Ep 2 - Big Trouble in Little China Jun 10, 2021

Today, I'm discussing John Carpenter's 1986 tour de force, Big Trouble in Little China (starring Kurt Russell), with a returning guest: Director of Photography Dean Cundey, the cinematographer for five of John Carpenter's films.

Season 8 - Ep 1 - Judas and the Black Messiah Jun 03, 2021

Welcome back for Season 8! Our first episode of the new season is a design-focused conversation about Judas and the Black Messiah with Sam Lisenco (Production Designer) and Jeremy Woolsey (Art Director). Enjoying the podcast? Please rate us, wherever you subscribe.

Season 7 - Ep 16 - Below the Line at the Oscars May 02, 2021

Bonus Oscar episode! Today, we're talking about the ceremony itself: my guest is three-time nominee John Pritchett, nominated this year for his sound work on News of the World. We discuss the challenges and unexpected perks of attending the Academy Awards with COVID-19 protocols in place.

Season 7 - Ep 15 - Oscars - Original Score Apr 23, 2021

Today concludes our 10-episode Oscar series highlighting the technical awards. To discuss the nominees for Original Score, I’m joined by returning guests Louis Weeks (score composer), Mick Coogan (songwriter) and Chris Molanphy (host of the Slate podcast, Hit Parade). Enjoy the ceremony this weekend!

Season 7 - Ep 14 - Oscars - Makeup and Hairstyling Apr 22, 2021

The Academy Awards are only a few days away, and we’ve got two more categories to discuss. Today, Angela Nogaro (makeup) and Yvonne De Patis-Kupka (hair) join me to assess the Oscar nominees for Makeup and Hairstyling.

Season 7 - Ep 13 - Oscars - Film Editing Apr 20, 2021

Our Academy Awards coverage continues all week. Today, I’m joined by Josh Gitelson (former editor/current lawyer) and Christopher Angel (writer/director/editor) to discuss the Oscar nominees for Film Editing.

Season 7 - Ep 12 - Oscars - Original Song Apr 19, 2021

With the Oscars ceremony less than a week away, we’re still talking about Academy Award nominees in the technical categories. Today, we're breaking down Original Song with returning guests Mick Coogan (composer) and Chris Molanphy (host of the Slate podcast, Hit Parade).

Season 7 - Ep 11 - Oscars - Cinematography Apr 16, 2021

Week Two of our Oscars coverage culminates with the Academy Award for Cinematography, and cinematographer David Tuttman joins me once again this year to discuss the nominated films in this category.

Season 7 - Ep 10 - Oscars - Visual Effects Apr 14, 2021

As we continue our coverage of the Oscar nominees in the technical categories, I’m joined once again by Industry veteran Kent Seki. Today, we’re talking about the films recognized by the Academy for Visual Effects.

Season 7 - Ep 9 - Oscars - Production Design Apr 12, 2021

Week Two of our Academy Awards coverage starts now. Today, I'm joined by Production Designer Sam Lisenco, Set Decorator Regina Graves and Lead Man Kerry Weeks to review the Oscar nominees for Production Design.

Season 7 - Ep 8 - Oscars - Animated Feature Apr 09, 2021

Today wraps up our first week of Academy Awards coverage, and I’m joined by Kent Seki (visual effects) for a discussion of the Oscar nominees for Animated Feature.

Season 7 - Ep 7 - Oscars - Costume Design Apr 07, 2021

Our discussion of Academy Award nominees in the technical categories continues! This episode, I'm joined by two costume designers, Allison Choi Braun and Katie Irish, to discuss this year’s Oscar finalists for — you guessed it — Costume Design.

Season 7 - Ep 6 - Oscars - Sound Apr 05, 2021

For the next three weeks, we're talking about the Academy Awards! Each episode, I'll be hosting subject-matter experts to discuss the nominees in the technical category of their expertise. Today, I'm joined by Steve Morrow (sound mixer) and Don Sylvester (sound editor) to discuss this year's Oscar nominees for Sound.

Season 7 - Ep 5 - DGA Awards - First-Time Features Apr 01, 2021

The Directors Guild of America maintains a separate category for First-Time Feature Film, which often gives smaller films a chance at recognition. Today, I’m joined again by Katie Carroll, Bill Hardy and Shaun O’Banion to discuss these nominees from a below-the-line perspective.

Season 7 - Ep 4 - DGA Awards - Theatrical Feature Films Mar 29, 2021

Welcome back for our second year of Awards Season coverage! This episode, Katie Carroll, Bill Hardy and Shaun O’Banion return to the show to discuss the Directors Guild of America nominations for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in the category of Theatrical Feature Film.

Season 7 - Ep 3 - COVID-19 - Props in the Pandemic Mar 25, 2021

When Hollywood resumed work last year, the handling of props quickly emerged as a focal point of concern for cast and crew alike. Gregg Bilson, Jr. (CEO of prop house ISS) and Scott Buckwald (property master) return to the show to discuss how property departments and their suppliers have contributed to a safe and efficient set.

Season 7 - Ep 2 - COVID-19 - Managing the Set Mar 18, 2021

Filming safely and efficiently during the pandemic is a serious challenge. My guests today are a trio of assistant directors — Emily Hogan, Chris Della Penna and Vince Duque — who return to discuss their experiences on set and share what insights they've gained over the last nine months.

Season 7 - Ep 1 - COVID-19 - State of the Industry Mar 11, 2021

For the launch of Season 7, I've reconvened some familiar voices to discuss how film production has not only adapted to the pandemic but appears to be booming. Join Katie Carroll (assistant director), Allison Choi Braun (costumer), Dan Fisher (property master), and Dave Tuttman (cinematographer) to hear about their latest projects, and what it portends for the Industry going forward.

Season 6 - Ep 10 - Combat Camera at Vandenberg AFB Nov 11, 2020

Happy Veterans Day! Today, I'm joined by military photographers and videographers I served with nearly 25 years ago at the 30th Communications Squadron (Vandenberg AFB, CA). My guests - Jim Stayton, Bruce Dzitko, Fred Johnson and Al Pedroza - share stories from our days in uniform and how those experiences still resonate with us today.

Season 6 - Ep 9 - COVID-19 - Non-Union Production Nov 04, 2020

My guests today — Johanna Vanderspool, Caitlin Alba and Claire Truman — represent the NonFiction “Union”, an advocacy coalition of non-fiction freelancers. We talk about the growth of reality television over the last two decades and how this segment of the Industry is responding to the pandemic.

Season 6 - Ep 8 - The Forty-Year-Old Version Oct 28, 2020

My guest today is Eric Branco, Cinematographer for The Forty-Year-Old Version, the 2020 Sundance winner that is now airing on Netflix. We discuss what it was like to collaborate with Radha Blank (who wrote, directed and stars in the film) and the practical challenges of capturing a vision in black and white.

Season 6 - Ep 7 - COVID-19 - Protocols for Filming Oct 21, 2020

Season 6 resumes with a discussion of the protocols adopted by the Film Industry to protect the health and safety of cast and crew during the pandemic. That's been the focus of my personal efforts over the last three months, and my guests today -- Jill Maxcy and Greg Kaston Smalley -- are also working in this space.

Season 6 - Ep 6 - COVID-19 - Central Casting Jul 27, 2020

My guests today -- Jen Bender (Executive) and Claire Benjamin (Casting Director) -- are from Central Casting, the largest employer of background actors in the Industry. We discuss how background casting worked before COVID-19 and how the process is changing in response to the pandemic.

Season 6 - Ep 5 - Ozark Jul 20, 2020

This episode, we’re talking about Ozark, the Netflix streaming series starring Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, which recently released its third season. In a change of pace, I’m joined by two of the producers who have been with the show since the beginning: Patrick Markey (Executive Producer) and Matt Spiegel (Line Producer/Unit Production Manager). We look behind the scenes at the Atlanta-based show, and discuss the challenge of filming Season 4 in a COVID-19 world.

Season 6 - Ep 4 - Party of Five Jul 13, 2020

Today we're discussing the television drama Party of Five, which ran for six seasons on Fox (1994-2000). It was my first assignment as a DGA (Directors Guild of America) Trainee, and I'm joined by two of the assistant directors with whom I worked: Chris Della Penna (1st Assistant Director) and Vince Duque (2nd Assistant Director). It's a fun look back at the long-running series, and we have an interesting discussion about how film production has changed over the last 20 years.

Season 6 - Ep 3 - COVID-19 - Filming During Quarantine Jul 06, 2020

My guests today -- Jason Melius (All Rise, 2nd Assistant Director), Mike Caron (Danger Force, Director) and Emily Hogan (Mythic Quest, 1st Assistant Director) -- all work on shows that produced new episodes under quarantine conditions. Each production took a different approach, and we compare notes on what it took to make these episodes happen.

Season 6 - Ep 2 - The Thing, Part II Jun 29, 2020

This is the second of two episodes discussing John Carpenter's The Thing, and I'm once again joined by Dean Cundey (Director of Photography), Ken Diaz (Special Makeup Effects Coordinator), Dave Kelsey (Mechanical Animation Coordinator), and Bruce Humphrey (DGA Trainee).

Dean also shared a video demonstrating how closely the filming of the movie aligned with Mike Ploog’s original storyboards, which you can watch on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Pve-hRIJGWc

Season 6 - Ep 1 - The Thing, Part I Jun 22, 2020

This is the first of two episodes discussing John Carpenter's The Thing, the 1982 sci-fi/horror classic starring Kurt Russell. I'm joined by crew from the film: Dean Cundey (Director of Photography), Ken Diaz (Special Makeup Effects Coordinator), Dave Kelsey (Mechanical Animation Coordinator), and Bruce Humphrey (DGA Trainee). Welcome to Season 6 of Below the Line.

Season 5 - Ep 12 - COVID-19 - Sheltering in Place Jun 04, 2020

This is the final episode of Season 5, and we're checking in with crew members from the season's first episode for status updates. Join Katie Carroll (assistant director), Allison Choi Braun (costumer), Dan Fisher (property master), and Dave Tuttman (cinematographer) for a discussion about how film production in both NYC and LA is responding to the ongoing pandemic.

Season 5 - Ep 11 - COVID-19 - Teamster Strong May 28, 2020

My guests today represent the motion picture craft locals of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters: Tommy O'Donnell (Local 817 - NYC), Steve Dayan (Local 399 - Hollywood) and Lorrie Ward (Local 155 - Vancouver). We discuss how the pandemic is impacting their members, resources for those in need, and the strategy for getting back to work.

Season 5 - Ep 10 - COVID-19 - Danger Force May 21, 2020

Earlier this month, Danger Force (the superhero tv show in its first season on Nickelodeon), produced and aired a special quarantine episode, and my guests today explain how it came together: Jimmy Brooks (line producer), Mike Caron (director), and Robyn Willey-Pratt (first assistant director).

Season 5 - Ep 9 - Props - ISS May 14, 2020

Our series focused on the property department concludes today with a pre-pandemic visit to Independent Studio Services (a prop house headquartered in Sunland, CA, with offices worldwide) for a conversation with Gregg Bilson, Jr. (CEO of ISS) and Scott Buckwald (property master, ISS customer, and longtime podcast contributor).

If you'd like to listen to this episode while looking at pictures from our tour, visit our YouTube channel for an edited slideshow = https://youtu.be/5v34PMDnHLI

Season 5 - Ep 8 - Props - Avengers: Endgame May 07, 2020

My guest today is assistant property master Travis Bobbitt, whose work on 2019's Avengers: Endgame was the culmination of a journey he started a decade ago on 2010's Iron Man.

Season 5 - Ep 7 - COVID-19 - The Unions Respond Apr 30, 2020

Today I'm speaking with the legislative directors from IATSE, SAG-AFTRA, WGA-East and the DGA, who collectively represent their members at the national level through their participation in the Arts, Entertainment, and Media Industry Coordinating Committee (AEMI). We discuss their work to-date on behalf of creative professionals in response to the pandemic ... and what's still to come.

Season 5 - Ep 6 - Props - Wizards of Waverly Place Apr 23, 2020

Ken Levin and Jill Parry join me today to revisit their time managing props for Wizards of Waverly Place, the Disney sitcom that aired four seasons (2007-2012) and introduced the world to Selena Gomez.

Season 5 - Ep 5 - Props - S.W.A.T. Apr 16, 2020

My guest today is Erik "Dr. Booty" Kieltyka, an assistant property master on the television show, S.W.A.T. (starring Shemar Moore), currently airing its third season on CBS.

Season 5 - Ep 4 - COVID-19 - Remembering Larry Lerner Apr 09, 2020

Last week, we lost one of our own: Larry Lerner, an assistant director with a film career spanning more than 35 years, passed away after contracting COVID-19. My guests today are fellow Directors Guild members who knew Larry, both on and off set.

Season 5 - Ep 3 - Props - The Wrestler Apr 02, 2020

Today I'm speaking with Jeff Butcher and Dan Fisher, the property team from 2008's The Wrestler (directed by Darren Aronofsky, starring Mickey Rourke, and featuring supporting performances by Marisa Tomei and Evan Rachel Wood).

Season 5 - Ep 2 - Props - The Prestige Mar 26, 2020

My guest today is Property Master Scott Buckwald, sharing his insights from the set of 2006's The Prestige (directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale). This is the first of a multi-episode series focused on the Property Department.

Season 5 - Ep 1 - COVID-19 - Production Shutdown Mar 19, 2020

And just like that, we're back for a new season. An assistant director, a costumer, and a property master meet virtually because of social distancing . . . this episode, my guests are crew members whose productions stopped filming due to concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19.

Season 4 - Ep 11 - Below the Line at the Oscars Feb 19, 2020

Bonus Oscar episode! A hairstylist and a sound mixer walk into a bar . . . want to know what really happens at the Academy Awards? My guests today are hairstylist Yvonne De Patis-Kupka, who has crewed many an Oscar ceremony, and three-time Sound Mixing nominee Steve Morrow, who tells us about the red carpet, the after parties, and everything in between. It's a Below the Line look at the event itself from both sides of the curtain.

Season 4 - Ep 10 - Oscars - Costume Design Feb 06, 2020

Our discussion of the Oscar nominees in the technical/craftsman categories concludes today! A wardrobe department insider walks into a bar . . . this episode, we're assessing the nominees for Costume Design (Academy Awards series: 7 of 7).

Season 4 - Ep 9 - Oscars - Cinematography Feb 05, 2020

A cinematographer walks into a bar . . . this episode is a deep-dive discussion of the Oscar nominees for Cinematography (Academy Awards Series: 6 of 7).

Season 4 - Ep 8 - Oscars - Makeup and Hairstyling Feb 04, 2020

A makeup artist and a hairstylist walk into a bar . . . today, we're talking about the Oscar nominees for Makeup and Hairstyling (Academy Awards Series: 5 of 7).

Season 4 - Ep 7 - Oscars - Original Song / Original Score Jan 30, 2020

A pair of composers and a music critic walk into a bar . . . our Oscar conversations continue with a discussion of the nominees for Original Song and Original Score (Academy Awards Series: 4 of 7).

Season 4 - Ep 6 - Oscars - Film Editing / Visual Effects Jan 29, 2020

A pair of editors and a producer walk into a bar . . . today, our discussion of the Oscar technical categories focuses on the nominees in Film Editing and Visual Effects (Academy Awards Series: 3 of 7).

Season 4 - Ep 5 - Oscars - Sound Mixing / Sound Editing Jan 27, 2020

Our Oscar coverage continues! A sound mixer and a sound editor walk into a bar . . . our discussion of the technical nominees continues with Sound Mixing and Sound Editing: two categories with a complicated relationship that lends itself to an interesting discussion (Academy Awards Series: 2 of 7).

Season 4 - Ep 4 - Oscars - Production Design Jan 26, 2020

For the next two weeks, we're all about the Oscars! A production designer, a set decorator and a leadman walk into a bar . . . our assessment of the nominees in the technical categories starts with an in-depth look at Production Design (Academy Awards Series: 1 of 7).

Season 4 - Ep 3 - DGA Awards - Television Nominees Jan 22, 2020

That same group of assistant directors are keeping the bar open late . . . our third of three episodes about the Directors Guild of America nominations for Outstanding Directorial Achievement is a discussion of the nominees in the various Television categories.

Season 4 - Ep 2 - DGA Awards - First-Time Features / Documentaries Jan 21, 2020

A group of assistant directors continue talking at a bar . . . our second of three episodes about the Directors Guild of America nominations for Outstanding Directorial Achievement is about the First-Time Feature Film and Documentary categories.

Season 4 - Ep 1 - DGA Awards - Theatrical Feature Films Jan 20, 2020

Welcome to Awards Season! A group of assistant directors gather in a bar . . . this week we're talking about the Directors Guild of America nominations for Outstanding Directorial Achievement. This episode (first of three) we discuss the Theatrical Feature Films.

Season 3 - Ep 10 - Ford v Ferrari Stunts Dec 24, 2019

Bonus episode! A stunt coordinator walks into a bar . . . my guest today is Robert Nagle, Stunt Coordinator for 2019's Ford v Ferrari. Needless to say, our conversation is focused on the stunts.

Season 3 - Ep 9 - Ford v Ferrari Dec 19, 2019

An assistant director, a sound mixer and a location manager walk into a bar . . . today we're talking about 2019's Ford v Ferrari (directed by James Mangold and starring Christian Bale and Matt Damon): see it in the theater and then join us for the podcast!

Season 3 - Ep 8 - Law & Order Dec 12, 2019

A cinematographer, a boom operator and a set dresser walk into a bar . . . this week, we're revisiting the long-running, NYC-based NBC series, Law & Order, which ran for 20 seasons (1990-2010).

Season 3 - Ep 7 - Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Dec 05, 2019

A sound mixer and a grip walk into a bar . . . my guests today are crew from Quentin Tarantino's 2019 magnum opus, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt).

Season 3 - Ep 6 - Piranha 3D Nov 21, 2019

An assistant director, a property master and a production assistant walk into a bar . . . this episode, my guests are from 2010's Piranha 3D (directed by Alexandre Aja and starring Elisabeth Shue, Jerry O'Connell, Adam Scott and a slew of guest stars).

Season 3 - Ep 5 - The 48 Hour Film Project Nov 14, 2019

A team of amateur filmmakers walk into a bar . . . today I'm speaking with folks who competed in The 48 Hour Film Project, an annual filmmaking event that attracts entries from around the globe.

Season 3 - Ep 4 - Arrested Development Nov 07, 2019

An assistant director, a set dresser and a production assistant walk into a bar . . . this week we're talking about Arrested Development, and my guests are crew representing the runs on both Fox (2003-2006) and Netflix (2013-2019).

Season 3 - Ep 3 - Counterpart Oct 24, 2019

A makeup artist and a couple of assistant directors walk into a bar . . . today we're talking about both seasons of the 2017-2018 Starz television series, Counterpart (starring J.K. Simmons and Olivia Williams).

Season 3 - Ep 2 - Patriot Games Oct 17, 2019

A helicopter pilot, a stunt woman and an assistant director walk into a bar . . . this episode, we're revisiting 1992's Patriot Games (directed by Phillip Noyce and starring Harrison Ford, Sean Bean, Anne Archer and Samuel L. Jackson).

Season 3 - Ep 1 - Mad Men Oct 10, 2019

We're back with all new episodes! A couple of assistant directors and a makeup artist walk into a bar . . . today we're talking about all seven seasons of Mad Men (created by Matthew Weiner and starring an ensemble cast led by Jon Hamm and Elisabeth Moss).

Season 2 - Ep 13 - La La Land Aug 01, 2019

Season 2 finale! An assistant director, a sound mixer and a location manager walk into a bar . . . today we're talking about La La Land, the critically praised 2016 musical (directed by Damien Chazelle and starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone). p.s. - we're taking a short hiatus after this episode but will be back this fall with Season 3

Season 2 - Ep 12 - The Matrix Reloaded Jul 18, 2019

A special episode in honor of Comic-Con! A stunt woman and two production assistants walk into a bar . . . this episode, my guests are crew from The Matrix Reloaded (starring Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss and Laurence Fishburne, and directed by the Wachowski siblings).

Season 2 - Ep 11 - Jericho Jul 04, 2019

A set dresser, a special effects tech and a grip meet up with a superfan at a bar . . . this episode, we're talking about the television show Jericho (starring Skeet Ulrich and Lennie James) and the fan campaign that brought it back for a second season.

Season 2 - Ep 10 - The Americans Jun 20, 2019

A prop master, a costume designer and a post-production supervisor walk into a bar . . . this episode, we're talking about all six seasons of the award-winning television series, The Americans (starring Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys).

Season 2 - Ep 9 - DGA Trainees Jun 06, 2019

A group of former trainees walk into a bar . . . this episode, I'm joined by fellow graduates of the DGA Assistant Director Training Program.

Season 2 - Ep 8 - Elizabethtown May 23, 2019

A couple of production assistants and a director's assistant walk into a bar . . . this episode, we're revisiting 2005's Elizabethtown (written and directed by Cameron Crowe and starring Orlando Bloom and Kirsten Dunst).

Season 2 - Ep 7 - Eighth Grade May 09, 2019

An assistant director, a property master and a gaffer walk into a bar . . . this episode, I'm joined by crew from 2018's Eighth Grade (written and directed by first-time director Bo Burnham and starring phenom Elsie Fisher).

Season 2 - Ep 6 - The Majestic Apr 25, 2019

A hair stylist, a sound mixer and a production assistant walk into a bar . . . this episode, I'm joined by crew who worked with me on 2001's The Majestic (directed by Frank Darabont and starring Jim Carrey).

Season 2 - Ep 5 - Crazy Ex-Girlfriend Apr 11, 2019

A trio of assistant directors walk into a bar . . . this episode, I'm joined by ADs who worked all four seasons of the recently-concluded tv series, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (starring Rachel Bloom).

Season 2 - Ep 4 - 24 Mar 28, 2019

An assistant director, a property master and a key grip walk into a bar . . . this episode, we tell stories from the set of the long-running tv series, 24 (starring Kiefer Sutherland).

Season 2 - Ep 3 - Own Worst Enemy Mar 14, 2019

A pair of co-directors and their lead actress walk into a bar . . . this episode, we discuss the challenges of micro-budget indie filmmaking with Own Worst Enemy (now streaming for free on Amazon Prime).

Season 2 - Ep 2 - P.A. Bootcamp Feb 28, 2019

A gaggle of production assistants walk into a bar . . . this episode, my guests are the founder, a trainer and a graduate of P.A. Bootcamp, a program for people starting out in the film business.

Season 2 - Ep 1 - Bonneville Feb 14, 2019

Welcome to Season 2! An assistant director, a camera loader and a producer walk into a bar . . . this episode, we're revisiting 2006's Bonneville (starring Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates and Joan Allen), an indie road trip movie with a film crew based out of Salt Lake City, Utah.

Season 1 - Ep 13 - Henry Danger Nov 27, 2018

Final episode of the season! A trio of assistant directors walk into a bar . . . this episode, I'm joined by the AD team for Henry Danger, a superhero tv show for kids currently airing on Nickelodeon.

Season 1 - Ep 12 - Repli-Kate Nov 20, 2018

A couple of prop guys and a production assistant walk into a bar . . . this episode, we share a few laughs about 2002's Repli-Kate (starring Ali Landry, James Roday, Desmond Askew and Eugene Levy).

Season 1 - Ep 11 - Veterans in Hollywood Nov 13, 2018

Some military vets celebrate Veterans Day at a bar . . . this episode, my guests and I all spent time in uniform before starting careers in Hollywood, and we discuss the similarities, differences and lessons learned in the transition.

Season 1 - Ep 10 - Snakes on a Plane Nov 06, 2018

A stunt coordinator and a couple of assistant directors walk into a bar . . . this episode, we talk about 2006's Snakes on a Plane (starring Samuel L. Jackson), with a focus on the five days of rated-R reshoots.

Season 1 - Ep 9 - Majestic Background Oct 30, 2018

Three extras walk into a bar . . . this episode, my guests are non-professional background artists who worked with me on 2001's The Majestic (starring Jim Carrey), when we were filming in Ferndale, CA.

Season 1 - Ep 8 - Drowning Mona Oct 23, 2018

An assistant director and a couple of prop guys walk into a bar . . . this episode, we share some stories from the set of 2000's Drowning Mona (starring Danny DeVito, Bette Midler, Neve Campbell and Jamie Lee Curtis).

Season 1 - Ep 7 - Attila Oct 16, 2018

A wardrobe supervisor, a camera operator and an assistant director walk into a bar . . . this episode, we revisit the 2001 USA Network mini-series, Attila (filmed entirely in Lithuania and starring Gerard Butler in his first major role).

Season 1 - Ep 6 - Sex and Death 101 Oct 09, 2018

A set medic, a production assistant and an assistant director walk into a bar . . . this episode, we revisit 2007's Sex and Death 101 (starring Simon Baker and Winona Ryder).

Season 1 - Ep 5 - Panic Oct 02, 2018

A gaffer, a property master and an assistant director walk into a bar . . . this episode, we revisit 2000's Panic (starring William H. Macy, Neve Campbell, John Ritter, Tracey Ullman and Donald Sutherland).

Season 1 - Ep 4 - West Wing Background, part II Sep 25, 2018

Four more extras walk into that same bar . . . this episode, we return to background holding and bring together another group of White House staffers from The West Wing.

Season 1 - Ep 3 - West Wing Background, part I Sep 18, 2018

Three extras walk into a bar . . . this episode, all of my guests worked regularly as White House staffers on The West Wing during the show's seven-season run (1999-2006).

Season 1 - Ep 2 - Seabiscuit Sep 16, 2018

A stunt jockey, a set medic and a production assistant walk into a bar . . . this episode, we revisit 2003's horseracing epic, Seabiscuit (starring Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges and Chris Cooper).

Season 1 - Ep 1 - Cellular Sep 14, 2018

An assistant director and a property master walk into a bar . . . this episode, we revisit 2004's Cellular (starring Kim Basinger, Chris Evans and Jason Statham).

Ep 0 - Teaser Intro Sep 10, 2018

A former assistant director opens up a bar . . .

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