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Ever wondered how casting decisions shape the very essence of a film? In our latest episode, Join Alex, Erica and improviser and theater teacher Salvatore Frattallone joins us for a witty and insightful chat about the art of casting in movies. We reminisce about the nostalgia of Blockbuster nights and childhood favorites like "Land Before Time," revealing how Salvatore's quirky fascination with film subgenres. Prepare for a whirlwind of laughter and thought-provoking perspectives as we question what makes casting choices truly iconic, or at times, detrimental to the cinematic experience.

From Meryl Streep's unforgettable performance in "The Devil Wears Prada" to the chilling portrayal of Patrick Bateman by Christian Bale, we celebrate the actors who leave an indelible mark on pop culture. We even look ahead to the new Oscar category for casting directors, pondering which films could earn such an accolade. This episode is packed with engaging stories about Oscar parties, memorable movie performances, and the lasting impact of perfect casting. Whether you're a film buff or just love a good story, you won't want to miss this lively exploration of the magic behind movie casting.

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Michele Noble and Farnell Newton invite us into the world of their film, "The Yellow Sponge is the Dish Sponge," as they share their experiences at the Tacoma Film Festival. Discover how the seemingly ordinary act of cleaning becomes a profound exploration of relationship dynamics, enhanced by the festival's welcoming atmosphere. Michele's unique approach, including breaking the fourth wall and selecting introspective settings, keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. Farnell's musical touch adds a layer of comedic flair, perfectly meshing with Michele's vision to create a harmonious blend of humor and seriousness.

We also have the pleasure of chatting with B, the director of "Donut Boy," who brings his own unique take to the festival. B opens up about the trials and triumphs of filming in Tacoma, with its iconic landmarks like Mount Rainier providing a stunning backdrop. The local vibe and challenges of unpredictable weather add an exciting element to the narrative. Through B’s storytelling, we get a glimpse of the creative process and the local community's synergy with the film.

Rounding out the episode is a celebration of the festival's standout films and unforgettable moments. From the striking visuals of "Fish Monger" to the innovative storytelling in "How May I Help You?" there's no shortage of creative inspiration. We recount the twists and turns of filming on location, the meticulous planning for safety, and the collaborative efforts that brought each film to life. Join us as we reflect on these artistic endeavors and look ahead to future features and collaborations on the podcast.

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Imagine capturing the essence of homesickness and nostalgia through the lens of a filmmaker in their own hometown. That's exactly what Brianna Murphy set out to do in Gig Harbor, Washington, alongside her creative partner Julian Doan. We unravel the layers of their filmmaking journey, from using Brianna's parents' home as a set to discovering the mesmerizing summer light of the Pacific Northwest. Their film, featured at the Tacoma Film Fest, is a testament to the personal and emotive storytelling that resonates deeply, not only with them but with everyone who's ever felt the pull of their roots.

Next, we explore the behind-the-scenes magic of production, where creativity flowed as naturally as the script itself. From the infusion of real plants by production designer Sophia Odegaard to the dual talents of lead actress Jules, also known as Isla Vidal, every element of the film speaks to authenticity and passion. The process wasn't without its challenges, but the team's dedication shone through, especially in the moments where their vision was brought to life on screen. It's fascinating to see how a creative collaboration, born out of chance encounters, can culminate in a film score that perfectly complements the narrative.

We then hop over to the world of documentary filmmaking, where John McDonald takes us on a profound journey with "Call Me Mule." His film's global impact highlights the universal appeal of unique lifestyles and stories. Through John's eyes, we learn about the art of building rapport with both human subjects and their companions, the mules. His innovative blending of vintage and modern technology breathes new life into the narrative, illustrating the ever-evolving techniques in the documentary realm. This episode paints a vivid picture of storytelling's diverse forms, from personal tales in the Pacific Northwest to global documentaries that capture the heart and soul of their subjects.

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What if the power of storytelling could reshape societal structures and preserve cultural legacies? Join us as we uncover the creative processes behind "Wild Dreams" with filmmakers Kwabi Amoa-Foreson and Derek Nunn. These talented directors take us on a journey from the intimate setting of a private screening to the grand stage of the Tacoma Film Festival, where they blend drama and comedy to challenge the audience's perceptions of diversity and inclusion. Through their narrative, we touch on the nuanced portrayal of societal violence and the importance of opening up meaningful conversations about representation.

In another inspiring tale, a first-time actor emerges onto the cinematic stage, discovering the magic of non-verbal communication and authentic storytelling through a short film project. We explore the challenges they faced, including the ever-present imposter syndrome, and share valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers striving to craft stories that truly resonate. Drawing inspiration from filmmaker Alex Garland, we emphasize the significance of staying true to one's narrative, breaking down the art of conveying complex emotions through micro-expressions and physical acting.

As the festival unfolds, we delve into culturally rich stories like "Echo" and "Fish War," highlighting the transformative power of film as a tool for preserving indigenous identity and heritage. We journey through the historical significance of the fish wars and celebrate initiatives that foster cooperation between state and tribal entities. The legacy of Billy Frank Jr. takes center stage, along with efforts to nurture indigenous identity in schools, ensuring that history and traditions are honored and shared for generations to come. Through these remarkable stories, we spotlight the filmmakers and cultural leaders who are passionately advocating for representation, equity, and collaboration in their communities.

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Unlock the secrets of indie filmmaking and storytelling through our exclusive preview of the 2024 Tacoma Film Festival. Join us, Alex McCauley and Max Flosberg, as we highlight the festival’s unique collaboration between the Grand Cinema and the Blue Mouse Theater, connected by convenient shuttle services for a seamless cinematic experience. We promise an illuminating journey into must-watch films like "Fish War," a documentary on Indigenous rights, and "Rainier: A Beer Odyssey," a nostalgic nod to quirky local beer commercials, sure to sell out with additional screenings scheduled.

Explore a kaleidoscope of stories with films like "Vines," an eco-horror short hosting a Q&A session with Max, and "I'm Not a Robot," a thought-provoking European comedy. We celebrate diverse voices with "Donut Boy," a dramatic short reflecting the Asian community, and "Wild Dreams," which tackles identity and generational trauma. Our discussions span passionate interviews with filmmakers Don Jones-Redstone and Tommy Heffernan, providing a peek into the creative minds behind these vibrant films.

Peek behind the curtain of the filmmaking process as we dive into the art of crafting short films under tight timelines and budgets. Tommy Heffernan shares his experiences with "Human Resource" and "Turbo Sean," revealing how the pressure of a 48-hour competition can spark creativity. Meanwhile, Dawn Jones-Redstone offers insights on "Feelings Experiment," discussing how the pandemic inspired a comedic exploration of emotional restoration. Together, we celebrate the therapeutic joys of spontaneous creation, advocating for a filmmaking approach that rekindles passion and creativity.

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Join us on a cinematic adventure with legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola's latest masterpiece, "Megapolis." With special guest Erica Crouse, we explore the film's opening weekend and discuss Coppola's storied career. Erica shares her magical experiences at Disneyland, indulging in Halloween-themed attractions and roller coasters. Together, we muse over the nostalgic yet innovative spirit of the park, setting the stage for a thought-provoking conversation on Coppola's indelible influence in the world of cinema.

Our journey continues with an exploration of Adam Driver's intriguing career choices. With roles in films like "Ferrari" and "House of Gucci," we ponder whether Driver is still in search of impactful roles since his standout performances in "Marriage Story" and "Black Klansman." We express excitement over Coppola's star-studded cast in "Megapolis," featuring talents like Aubrey Plaza and Shia LaBeouf, and delve into the dynamics of passion projects that come alive through a director's vision. Witnessing a filmmaker's dream turn into reality is a joy, regardless of critical acclaim.

We also revisit timeless classics like "The Godfather," examining their impact on modern audiences amidst evolving cinematic tastes. As we trace the artistry of Al Pacino and Marlon Brando, we appreciate the nuances of these films while acknowledging their challenges. Reflections on other iconic films and the evolving portrayal of horror cinema add layers to our discussion, sparking excitement for future cinematic explorations. The world of film appreciation is a captivating adventure, filled with new discoveries and venerable classics that continue to inspire.

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Ever wondered what it takes to direct young actors authentically? Join us as we chat with Rachel Taggart, writer and director of "Hold my Hair," and Joe Carstensen, the script supervisor. Rachel opens up about her unique approach to nurturing young talent, while Joe shares her enlightening first-time experience in a predominantly female film crew. This segment is a must-listen for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes dynamics of working with sensitive topics and young performers.

Transitioning genres can be a labyrinth of challenges, but the creators of "Last Scene" navigate it with finesse. Our conversation spans the intricate journey from horror to drama, delving into the compelling allure of film noir aesthetics. Discover the vital role of collaboration and how focusing on specific roles can enhance a film’s quality. Plus, get an insider’s look at the excitement of hosting Q&As and late-night film batches at the festival, offering a glimpse into the vibrant festival culture.

Our deep dive continues with Ayanna Berkshire, co-lead of "The Way We Speak," who shares her meticulous process for character preparation and handling pre-performance nerves. Her insights are a treasure trove for actors and filmmakers alike. We also catch up with Lauren Musgrove, director of "Ugly Sweater," as she highlights the importance of a solid support system and infusing personal elements into her work. Finally, we offer a heartfelt thank you to the Gig Harbor Film Festival team and preview some exciting upcoming content, ensuring you’ll want to stay tuned to Excuse the Intermission.

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Have you ever wondered what would happen if "Rambo" met "Michael Clayton"? Tune in as we unravel the brilliance of Jeremy Saulnier’s latest thriller "Rebel Ridge." With riveting performances by Aaron Pierre and Don Johnson, we dissect the film’s intricate themes of asset forfeiture, rural corruption, and its thrilling action sequences. This episode isn’t just a review; it’s an exploration of Saulnier’s meticulous filmmaking and his knack for creating gritty, immersive worlds. We draw intriguing comparisons between "Rebel Ridge" and Saulnier’s earlier works like "Green Room" and "Blue Ruin," highlighting his commitment to adult-oriented narratives.

Our conversation extends to the visceral impact of films like "Titane" and the thought-provoking body horror of "The Substance." We debate the provocative themes of female representation, particularly in the context of Hollywood’s unrealistic beauty standards and the intense influence of social media culture. By exploring the transformative performances of actors like Margaret Qualley and Demi Moore, we provide a deep dive into how these films challenge societal norms and evoke strong emotional responses. This episode is packed with personal anecdotes and heartfelt reflections on how these films resonate with us and the broader audience.

As we gear up for the upcoming Gig Harbor and Tacoma Film Festivals, we share our enthusiasm for the premieres, Q&A sessions, and local film showcases that make these events so special. 

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What if the very essence of politeness could lead you into a nightmarish scenario? Join us for an insightful episode as we compare and contrast the new American thriller "Speak No Evil" with its original Danish source material. With special guest Erica Crouse, we dive into the nuances of film performances, marketing strategies, and the surprising box office performance. Despite a strong opening of $20 million worldwide, we explore whether the intense marketing campaign caused audience fatigue, especially given the overshadowing success of "Deadpool and Wolverine."

Our fresh "Cinema Showdown" format brings an exciting dimension to analyzing casting choices, narrative differences, and marketing approaches between the two films. We critique how the American version's marketing may have revealed too much, underestimating the audience's intelligence, and discuss the stark contrast in character portrayals, particularly Scoot McNairy's more pathetic and unlikable character in the remake. Erica Krauss provides her expert take on how the pacing and development of friendships differ, highlighting the deeper emotional connections in the original versus the rushed setup in the remake.

Finally, we scrutinize the cinematic setting, production design, and technical elements that differentiate the two versions. From the claustrophobic woods in the Danish film to the polished manor house in its American counterpart, we discuss how these settings enhance or detract from the horror atmosphere. We also delve into the thematic elements of human behavior and boundaries, examining how politeness and the fear of confrontation play critical roles in both films. Tune in for a compelling analysis that not only contrasts these two thrillers but also reflects on broader themes of human interaction and psychological tension.

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What magic happens when the legendary Michael Keaton and fresh talent Jenna Ortega collide in Tim Burton's latest Beetlejuice film? Join us as guest host Erica Crouse helps uncover the layers of this reboot, from the excitement of practical effects to the pitfalls of its overstuffed narrative. Together, we dissect how Keaton's reprisal of the iconic role and Ortega's fresh energy attempt to resuscitate the franchise, even as we critique the film's jumbled storylines and tonal inconsistencies.

Get ready for an all-encompassing journey through Tim Burton's career as we unveil our top 10 Hall of Fame entries, complete with honorable mentions and surprising misses. From the zany "Mars Attacks!" to the heartfelt "Big Fish" and the hauntingly beautiful "Sweeney Todd," we traverse the eclectic landscape of Burton's oeuvre. Concluding with a discussion on why Beetlejuice 2 marks a critical turning point, we reflect on his career highs and lows while speculating on the future gems Burton might create with his regained momentum.

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