The Film Library: A Kanopy Podcast

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Producer: Brandon Gray

Executive Producer: Christian Pierce

Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic

Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

03:34 Noir films explore American society's dynamics.

07:07 Film noir’s origins, influences, enduring legacy.

14:00 Analysis of neo-noir and mystery film.

19:16 Noir represents isolation

22:37 Altman's "The Long Goodbye" and "Under the Silver Lake" age well, capturing specific moods.

25:55 Reflective films offer escapism from current turmoil.

31:24 Influential international films paying homage to noir.

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The Art of Emotional Storytelling in Documentaries with Alex Winter Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

This week hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson are joined by actor and filmmaker Alex Winter. Well known for his character-driven and emotional documentaries, Alex shares his journey from acting to NYU film student to acclaimed documentarian, dissecting the societal impact of technology on marginalized groups.

Alex discusses his pivotal works "Deep Web" and "The YouTube Effect," revealing how he adapts stories to serve their emotional arcs and the complexities of managing vast amounts of footage. Alex also shares his thoughts on the evolving landscape of film distribution, the parallels between the film and music industries post-Napster, and the indispensable role platforms like Kanopy play in preserving and presenting diverse cinema.

Their discussion highlights the challenges of documentary filmmaking, the influence of historical filmmakers, and Alex's latest projects. Plus, Alex shares some must-watch documentaries available on Kanopy, including recommendations like "Man on Wire" and "Faces Places." Whether you're a documentary aficionado or new to the genre, this episode promises to be a captivating exploration of the art and impact of documentary cinema.

Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted.

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Producer: Brandon Gray

Executive Producer: Christian Pierce

Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic

Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

10:01 Alex Winter discusses production processes and challenges.

13:56 Societal impact and individual stories.

19:10 Alex’s struggle with indie filmmaking made him turn to docs.

24:02 YouTube documentary focused on emotional stories.

27:13 Struggles in the art and entertainment industry.

28:06 Challenges releasing independent films.

37:38 Prioritize meaningful films over mainstream success.

38:35 The impact of the writer’s strike leads to developing multiple projects.

41:46 Documentary filmmakers inspire a vibrant, active life.

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Exploring Horror and Sci-Fi with Filmmaker Josh Ruben Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Film Library, hosts Daniel Thompson and Alonso Duralde talk with talented actor and director Josh Ruben to discuss his creative inspirations and the intentional social commentary in his horror projects, emphasizing the power of the outsider narrative.

Josh discusses his influences from the musical genius of Jerry Goldsmith along with Danny Elfman's iconic Catwoman theme from the Batman series, and how these thoughts and ideas seep into his work. He also reveals the sci-fi films that have profoundly impacted his filmmaking journey, naming classics like The Fly, Robocop, and Event Horizon. In addition, he reflects on how his roots in sketch comedy shape his ability to blend humor with genuine scares in his movies. The episode outlines his transition from directing commercials to full-length features such as "Scare Me," "Werewolves Within," and his latest horror comic project, "Darla."

If you're a fan of horror and science fiction, then you're in for a treat. Join us as we explore the importance and accessibility of these genres, the storytelling opportunities they present, and get to know a filmmaker who masterfully combines scares, laughs, and layered narratives.

Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted.

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Producer: Brandon Gray

Executive Producer: Christian Pierce

Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic

Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

06:34 Comedians enjoy complex, multi-tiered, stylized films.

13:32 Creative leeway and constructive feedback.

16:47 Horror combines multiple genres and messages.

18:45 Emphasizing outsider with non-white protagonist subtly.

23:34 Memorable movies from Cronenberg and Verhoeven.

29:13 Horror comic book "Darla"

32:54 Recent films on Kanopy offer thought-provoking themes.

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Cheryl Dunye Explores Queer Film History and Preservation Jun 21, 2024

Show notes

Join hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson as they sit down with filmmaker Cheryl Dunye, best known for her trailblazing film "The Watermelon Woman." As a graduate from Temple University, Cheryl sought to define her identity as a black lesbian in cinema, only to realize the glaring lack of representation. This realization fueled her to create a film that blends her passion for cinema, her personal identity, and her vibrant community.

Cheryl explores how "The Watermelon Woman" aimed to empower queer individuals and add a pivotal chapter to film history. They also discuss her views on the importance of preserving and making accessible diverse film narratives, her favorite genre films, and influential titles currently available on Kanopy. Plus, Cheryl shares her thoughts on the resilience needed to succeed as an indie filmmaker in a landscape with significant racial and gender disparities.

Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted.

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Producer: Brandon Gray

Executive Producer: Christian Pierce

Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic

Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

03:21 Intro to Cheryl Dunye

07:35 Cheryl searches for black lesbian representation

13:27 Importance of archiving black queer life stories

20:00 Finding solace in storytelling

25:48 Watermelon Woman finds a curated home

27:41 Rare content found online

31:51 Low budget lesbian film with diverse characters

34:43 Diverse LGBTQ+ content from Kanopy

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The Influence of International Cinema with Francis Lee Jun 14, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 4 of The Film Library where we examine the world of international cinema through the lens of acclaimed filmmaker Frances Lee. Join our hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson as they chat with the director behind "God's Own Country" and "Ammonite," and explore his passion for visual storytelling over dialogue—a hallmark of his favorite auteurs, Jacques Audiard and the Dardenne Brothers.

In this episode, Francis Lee shares his unique perspective on how rural communities and farming practices were perceived in his films compared to his intentions. We also delve into the transition from acting to filmmaking, his working-class roots, and how he’d funded his early projects while working at a junkyard. Francis also gives us an insightful look into his creative process, the challenges of navigating industrial actions by WGA and SAG, and the commitment to telling personal stories with central gay characters.

Join us for a captivating conversation that celebrates the power of world cinema, available for free on Kanopy through participating libraries and universities.

Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted.

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Follow Alonso Duralde https://bsky.app/profile/aduralde.bsky.social

Follow Daniel Thompson https://x.com/deckthedan

Producer: Brandon Gray

Executive Producer: Christian Pierce

Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic

Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

04:11 World cinema’s diverse and enriching experiences

13:37 Specific storytelling makes films universally relatable

17:00 Admiration for French filmmakers and visual storytelling

19:49 Rural perceptions

23:08 Access to worldwide films reshape a filmmaker landscape

25:21 Took time off to write three screenplays

28:40 Kanopy offers international cinema streaming

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The Legacy of Black Filmmakers with Justin Simien Jun 07, 2024

Show notes

In episode 3 of The Film Library, hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson are joined by the acclaimed filmmaker Justin Simien. Known for his groundbreaking works "Dear White People" and "Bad Hair," Justin reflects on his career and shares how his experiences have shaped his perspective on filmmaking and his future path. They examine the history and significance of black cinema, exploring its integral role in the broader cinematic landscape.

Justin highlights the exceptional work of emerging black filmmakers and recommends must-watch films such as Savanah Leaf’s "Earth Mama." The discussion also sheds light on the challenges of getting independent films into theaters and the crucial need for representation in traditional film education.

Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy and future of black cinema, and don't forget to explore the powerful, thought-provoking titles available on Kanopy.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

03:38 Reflecting on black cinema history

06:50 Black cinema is integral to overall cinema

11:40 Marginalized groups overlooked in movies

17:21 AV Rockwell's movies

21:33 Challenging perceptions of Charlie Chaplin stories

23:11 Using satire to convey subversive messages

27:33 Sam Jackson's great performance captivates in film

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