In the new episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew, the practical challenges of bringing small creatures to life, and an overlooked Christmas movie.

1984's Gremlins was quietly groundbreaking, with effects work being cracked often just hours before it was needed. Plus, it caused ratings problems.

In The Bleak Midwinter meanwhile soon found an American studio wanting to release it - but there was a sizeable condition attached.

Stories of both are told in this episode.

Find Simon on Twitter at @simonbrew, and the podcast can be found at @filmstoriespod.

Support our work at www.patreon.com/simonbrew.

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