Host Christian Toto takes a personal turn on this episode of The Hollywood in Toto Podcast.It's Christian's birthday, and he marked the occasion by revisiting two beloved movies with his teenage sons. Which films made the cut? Why do they still matter? And how did a new generation react to these cinematic favorites? Christian shares the experience and what it revealed about timeless storytelling.

Then, Christian welcomes producer Brandon Tamburri, the driving force behind Joke Zero, a company dedicated to bringing theatrical comedy back from the brink. Their first release, On a String, is the acclaimed directorial debut of stand-up comic Isabel Hagen. Tamburri discusses his vision for Joke Zero, why Hollywood stopped investing in big-screen comedies, and what it will take to make audiences laugh together in theaters again.

Don't miss this conversation about movies, comedy, culture, and the future of theatrical entertainment.

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar

--------------------------

Joke Zero: https://jokezero.com

X - https://x.com/jokezerocomedy

Instagram:   / jokezerocomedy  

ON A STRING - In NYC theaters Sept. 11 - Opening wide Sept. 18 

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com 

Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto

Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

The latest Hollywood in Toto Podcast tackles the biggest entertainment and culture stories of the week. Host Christian Toto dives into OdysseyGate, explaining why the media firestorm surrounding Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey may ultimately be a win for movie lovers, regardless of where you stand on the film itself.

Next, investigative journalist Liz Collin joins the show to discuss "Minnesota Mao," the latest Alpha News documentary. The film takes a hard look at the political record of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the Democrat who came close to becoming Vice President, revealing a far more troubling legacy than many Americans realize.

Finally, filmmaker Chris Dowling stops by to discuss his new faith-based comedy, Bad Counselors. He shares the inspiration behind the story of two young men who become Christian camp counselors and get much more than they expected, while also offering his perspective on the growing demand for faith-friendly films in Hollywood.

If you're interested in Christopher Nolan, The Odyssey, Hollywood news, conservative entertainment, faith-based movies, Christian films, Alpha News, Tim Walz, Minnesota Mao, and behind-the-scenes conversations with filmmakers and journalists, this episode is packed with insight, analysis, and exclusive interviews.

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar

--------------------------

'Minnesota Mao' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiXflDgw5iw&t=4s

'Bad Counselors' - out July 23: https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/bad-counselors/

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com 

Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

The latest episode of The Hollywood in Toto Podcast features two must-hear interviews with fearless voices from the worlds of comedy and entertainment.

First, comedian, author and sketch comedy sensation Lou Perez joins the show to discuss the current state of comedy, cancel culture, political satire and why short-form video content has become such a powerful tool for reaching audiences. Perez also shares his thoughts on where comedy is headed next and how today's funniest creators are navigating a rapidly changing culture.

Then, film producer and entertainment industry expert Chris Fenton stops by to talk about Hollywood's complicated relationship with China. Fenton explains how efforts to use American movies as a form of soft power ultimately produced unintended consequences and why he's now focused on strengthening U.S.-based film production. He also discusses his new family-friendly comedy, "Bad Counselors," opening July 22, and offers an unfiltered look at Hollywood's biggest challenges and opportunities.

Don't miss this wide-ranging conversation on comedy, free speech, Hollywood, China, independent filmmaking and the future of American entertainment. 

-------------------------- 

Bad Counselors - Out July 22! https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/bad-counselors/

Lou Perez: https://x.com/LouPerez

Catch him July 8-11 at Freedom Fest in Las Vegas https://freedomfest.com/ff2026/

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar

Follow me on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto

Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

In the latest episode of The Hollywood in Toto Podcast, host Christian Toto sits down with filmmaker Ian Anthony Reid, director of Revolutionary America, an inspiring new documentary celebrating the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday.

Narrated by screen legend Tom Selleck, "Revolutionary America" brings the country’s founding to life with gripping stories of American bravery, heroism, sacrifice and uncertainty during the Revolutionary War era. Far from a dry history lesson, the film serves as America’s origin story, offering a compelling and cinematic look at the events that shaped the United States.

Reid discusses working with Tom Selleck, how Revolutionary America came together and why understanding America’s founding matters now more than ever. He also explains how the film can help audiences better understand and process today’s heated political climate in 2026. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about American history, patriotism, Hollywood storytelling and the power of historical films to connect the past with the present.

"Revolutionary America" is in theaters for a limited time - May 31-June 2.

--------------------------
"Revolutionary America" - https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/revolutionary-america/

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar

Follow me on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto

Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

The Hollywood in Toto Podcast returns with a rare dose of good news from Hollywood as we spotlight celebrities and artists using their influence for something meaningful. In this uplifting episode, we explore how actress Gina Carano quietly thanked the supporters who stood by her in a gesture both small and deeply moving.

Plus, singer-songwriter John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting continues his passionate advocacy for Israeli hostages, including a powerful new duet guaranteed to give listeners goosebumps. We also highlight unexpected acts of generosity from Oscar-winning star Kevin Costner—proof that kindness in Hollywood still exists, even when it doesn’t make the headlines.

Then, we talk to veteran online film journalist Paul Shirey to discuss his upcoming book, Confessions of a Movie Blogger. Shirey shares behind-the-scenes stories from the world of entertainment journalism, revealing what really happens behind the Hollywood curtain and how movie coverage has evolved in the digital age. If you love Hollywood news, celebrity interviews, conservative entertainment commentary, movie journalism, film criticism, pop culture podcasts, and behind-the-scenes entertainment stories, this episode of The Hollywood in Toto Podcast is a must-listen. Tune in for inspiring stories, insider perspectives, and a refreshing look at the people making a difference in and around

 --------------------------

Paul Shirey's Substack: https://arcticninja.substack.com/ Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

On this week’s episode of The Hollywood in Toto Podcast, we dive deep into the growing free speech battle in Hollywood and the entertainment industry’s glaring double standards. Celebrities rushed to defend Jimmy Kimmel after his controversial assassination jokes about President Trump sparked backlash — but where was that same support when other actors, comedians, and creators were canceled, blacklisted, or silenced for their views?

We break down the latest shocking example of Hollywood hypocrisy and explore the predictable pattern of selective outrage dominating today’s media culture, celebrity activism, cancel culture debates, and political commentary in entertainment. 

Then, filmmaker Joseph Granda joins the show to discuss his breakout indie comedy The Sasqualogist. Made on a micro-budget yet packed with heart, humor, and impressive production value, the film proves independent cinema can still outshine bloated Hollywood releases. Granda reveals how he pulled off the ambitious project on a shoestring budget, why Bigfoot mythology became the perfect backdrop for such a personal story, and what aspiring indie filmmakers can learn from his creative process.

If you love independent film, comedy movies, Bigfoot lore, filmmaking insights, and behind-the-scenes Hollywood conversations, this interview is a must-listen. Subscribe now to The Hollywood in Toto Podcast for fearless entertainment commentary, uncensored Hollywood analysis, celebrity news, movie reviews, free speech discussions, and interviews with bold independent creators pushing back against mainstream groupthink.
 --------------------------

MerkelFilms.com (to rent 'The Sasqalogist'

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar

Follow me on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto

Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

Get ready for a sharp, unfiltered episode of The Hollywood in Toto Podcast that dives deep into media hypocrisy, Hollywood culture, and faith-driven filmmaking. This week, we revisit Jimmy Kimmel’s ghoulish joke about the First Lady—a moment that sparked outrage but, surprisingly, little consequence. Is this just another misstep, or part of a long-standing pattern in Kimmel’s comedic career? We break down his history of controversial humor, examine why backlash rarely sticks, and explain the cold, hard reality of why he’s unlikely to face serious repercussions in today’s entertainment landscape.

Then, we shift gears for an insightful conversation with Hollywood veteran Brian Bird, who discusses his latest project, The Story of Everything. This visually compelling, faith-friendly documentary offers a fresh perspective on the universe—eschewing the usual clichés, tired talking points, and predictable presentation style often found in similar films. Bird shares how the film embraces curiosity, welcomes criticism, and aims to elevate the genre with thoughtful storytelling and bold creative choices.

If you’re searching for a podcast that tackles cancel culture, late-night comedy controversy, media double standards, faith-based films, and Hollywood insiders, this episode delivers. Tune in for honest analysis, engaging interviews, and a perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.

--------------------------
'The Story of Everything' - in theaters April 30 https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/the-story-of-everything/

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar

Follow me on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto
Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

This week, The HiT 'cast dives into a provocative new YouTube series from A-list stand-up Mark Normand. He's putting Gen Z to the ultimate test. Are younger Americans ready to rise to the challenge—or are the results more troubling than anyone feared? Toto breaks down the series, the reactions, and what it reveals about cultural shifts. Or, is woke really broke after all?

Then, we sit down with Oscar-nominated screenwriter Roger L. Simon for an in-depth conversation about his daring new novel, EMET. This ripped-from-the-headlines thriller blends ancient mythology with modern anxieties, telling the story of a Rabbi who accidentally summons a Golem—only to find the creature has a chilling mission: hunting down antisemites in today’s world.

Simon explores the deeper themes behind EMET, including rising antisemitism, cultural decay, moral responsibility, and the state of modern society. He also shares his unfiltered perspective on Hollywood’s current climate, creative limitations, and ideological pressures shaping the entertainment industry today.

🎙️ Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode packed with pop culture analysis, generational commentary, and fearless storytelling. Keywords: Hollywood in Toto Podcast, Christian Toto, Mark Normand YouTube series, Gen Z culture test, Roger L. Simon interview, EMET novel, Golem story, antisemitism discussion, Hollywood politics, entertainment industry commentary, cultural decline, podcast episode entertainment news
--------------------------

"EMET" by Roger L. Simon: https://www.amazon.com/EMET-Roger-Simon-ebook/dp/B0GNX8X9YW

California Post: From punch lines to death threats: Jewish comics no longer safe in Hollywood: https://nypost.com/2026/04/14/opinion/jewish-comics-no-longer-safe-in-hollywood/

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto

Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

This week on The Hollywood in Toto Podcast, we dive into one of the most polarizing cultural battles in entertainment and media today: the ongoing backlash against J.K. Rowling. Why do the Left and the mainstream media—though we repeat ourselves—refuse to let the Harry Potter author move on?

We explore how Rowling’s stance on key aspects of the trans debate sparked relentless criticism, cancel culture campaigns, and reputational attacks that show no signs of slowing down. Is this about accountability, ideology, or something deeper? And how does Rowling’s treatment compare to public comments made by Stephen King and Scarlett Johansson on similar issues? 

In this episode, we break down the media narrative, analyze the double standards in Hollywood, and ask the big question: will the outrage ever end—or is this the new normal for outspoken creators?

Then, we shift gears with a compelling interview featuring bestselling author and cultural commentator Kurt Schlichter. He joins the show to discuss his bold leap into the world of graphic novels with People’s Republic: Blue Flame. Why did Schlichter choose the graphic novel format, and what storytelling opportunities does it unlock? What can fans of the Kelly Turnbull series expect next? And how does this new project expand the People’s Republic universe?

We also tackle Schlichter’s unfiltered thoughts on the current state of conservative media, including provocative commentary on high-profile voices like Tucker Carlson. Have some influential figures gone off track—and what does that mean for the broader political and cultural conversation? If you’re interested in cancel culture, media bias, free speech in Hollywood, conservative commentary, or the evolution of storytelling across formats, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
 🎙️ Subscribe, share, and join the conversation on The Hollywood in Toto Podcast.
 --------------------------
'People's Republic: Blue Flame' - crowdfunding campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/turkeyrobot/peoples-republic-blue-flame

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar

Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto

Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991

Get ready for a bold, unfiltered episode of the Hollywood in Toto Podcast with host Christian Toto—your go-to source for conservative entertainment news, media bias analysis, and pop culture commentary. This week, Christian dives into a fascinating—and hilarious—comparison between two left-leaning comedians. Who actually delivers the laughs, and who lets politics overshadow the punchlines?

He breaks down how one comic connects with audiences while the other struggles under what some call “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” If you care about comedy, free speech, and the growing divide in entertainment, this segment is a must-listen. Plus, why should audiences explore comedians from both sides of the political aisle? Christian explains how comedy thrives on diverse perspectives—and what happens when ideology gets in the way of humor.

In the second half, we welcome special guest James Carrick, founder of WorthItOrWoke.com—an innovative alternative to Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic. Looking for honest movie reviews without the spin? Curious whether “woke” messaging might impact your movie-going experience? Carrick explains how his platform empowers film fans with transparency and insight before they buy a ticket. He also shares the inside story of a tech glitch that derailed the site’s momentum—and how it bounced back.

🎙️ In this episode: Comedy analysis: politics vs. punchlines The impact of “woke” culture on stand-up comedy Why diverse comedic voices matter more than ever WorthItOrWoke.com: a new way to evaluate movies Behind-the-scenes tech troubles and startup resilience If you’re passionate about Hollywood, comedy, media bias, and fearless cultural commentary, don’t miss this episode of the Hollywood in Toto Podcast. 👉 Subscribe now for weekly takes on movies, entertainment news, and the culture wars shaping Hollywood today.

--------------------------

Worth It or Woke? https://worthitorwoke.com/

Subscribe to HiT's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HollywoodinToto

Read Hollywood in Toto - https://www.hollywoodintoto.com

Lend a hand: Leave a tip! https://hollywood-in-toto.ck.page/products/hollywood-in-toto-tip-jar Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollywoodInToto

Read: "Virtue Bombs: How Hollywood Got Woke and Lost Its Soul" https://www.amazon.com/Virtue-Bombs-Hollywood-Woke-Lost/dp/1637580991