THE FIXATE & BINGE PODCAST, with Host, Joe Curdy: Deep dives into cinema and storytelling with voices who create it

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Welcome to The Fixate & Binge Podcast! In this special episode for new subscribers, I pull back the curtain on who I am, what this show is all about, and why movies and TV aren’t just entertainment — they’re conversation starters. 

I dive into two of the most talked-about new releases: BOB TREVINO LIKES IT (now streaming on Hulu) and the horror sensation WEAPONS from director Zach Cregger, fresh in theaters this weekend. 

You’ll hear my Letterboxd reviews for both films — including a take on Weapons you probably won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re here for bold opinions, hidden gems, or just want to know what’s worth your time, this episode is the perfect place to start.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I welcome one of my best pals from college and (now) an award-winning director, David Bowen, a surfer turned Emmy-winning filmmaker -- for a deep dive into his career capturing the raw beauty of surfing and ocean culture from a life well-lived.

David shares stories from the shores of the North Shore of Hawaii to remote parts of the world, from the Middle East and beyond. As a freelance filmmaker specializing in capturing some of the most beloved live sports in Hawaii and the South Pacific, David talks story about his work for ESPN and the World Surf League (WSL), filming competitions with the world's greatest athletes. 

David also shares the surreal experience of being awarded Emmy's for his work for the Eddie Aikau Invitational and the Moloka'i Hoe World Championship while working with Salt N Air Studios together with KHON TV and Rogue TV.

From our college day in Hawaii to navigating the Big Waves of life and even bigger storytelling challenges, we reminisce, reflect and celebrate our enduring friendship, and living our dreams.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this powerful episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I sit down with award-winning independent filmmaker Harley Wallen to discuss his latest film, FINDING NICOLE — the harrowing true story of domestic abuse survivor Nicole Beverley, whose story was featured on CNN’s INSIDE with Chris Cuomo (Season 2, episode 4 titled "Til Death Do US Part"). 

Harley shares what first drew him to Nicole’s autobiographical journey and the responsibility of bringing such a deeply personal and painful story to the screen. He opens up about the emotional depths and research his wife, actress Kaiti Wallen went through, in the title role of Nicole, and how the filmmaking process became a personal mission culled from his own experiences living in Sweden to raise awareness about domestic violence.

Together, we explore the impact of telling real survivor stories, the importance of using film as a tool for advocacy, and why FINDING NICOLE (available to stream now on Amazon Prime) is more than just a movie — it's a message of hope and strength for those still fighting their way out.

Co-starring Sean Whalen, Richard Tyson, and Mari G.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this episode, I reflect on Oleksander Usyk’s recent historic unification win and his powerful post-fight message: “Discipline is more important than motivation.” As a longtime boxing fan, I break down what makes Usyk such a rare and remarkable fighter — not just in talent, but in mindset.

Then, I pivot from the ring to the screen, highlighting five films that embody that same relentless discipline:

• 🎣 JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI– Mastery through decades of routine and refinement.
• 🧬 GATTACA – Defying limitations through quiet, determined effort.
• 🥁 WHIPLASH – The punishing path to greatness in the arts.
• 🚣 THE NOVICE – Obsession, pain, and pushing beyond the edge.
• ⏰ GROUNDHOG DAY – Self-mastery earned through infinite repetition.

These films, like Usyk, show us that greatness isn't a flash of inspiration — it's built, one disciplined day at a time.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I sit down with MIKE FERGUSON, one of the most relentlessly hardest-working actors in Hollywood. With over 185 film and television credits -- dozens more in pre- and post- production -- Mike has carved out a prolific career in the world of independent and direct-to-streaming cinema -- in only nine years! But beyond his large body of work in entertainment, Mike's story is one of hustle, resilience, positivity and creativity.

In this podcast, we discuss Mike's beginnings in the industry, his reputation as a go-to actor for gritty roles and genre films, and how he balances it all with a massive and influential YouTube presence -- from collaborations with his wife and her work with MrBEAST and beyond. From viral videos to genre cult status, Mike opens up about the grind, remaining a positive force in his career and the future of streaming in the digital era.

Whether you're a film buff, aspiring actor, or just curious about what it really takes to work non-stop in Hollywood, this is a candid, fast-paced, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation you won't want to miss!

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this special July 4th weekend episode, I start with something a little different. While I usually keep this podcast focused on the worlds of film and television, I couldn’t ignore the very real-world news that broke over the holiday: a deeply concerning piece of legislation signed into law by President Trump that slashes Medicaid access, cuts SNAP benefits for struggling families, adds trillions to the national debt, and gives away massive tax breaks to the already ultra-wealthy.

It felt wrong not to say something.

But don’t worry — we do pivot back to what this podcast does best: breaking down what’s worth watching (and what’s not).

🎬 Movies & Shows Discussed:

• HEADS OF STATE (2025) – Idris Elba and John Cena bring action and comedy to Amazon Prime.
• THE ACTOR (2025) – An offbeat noir character study streaming on Hulu.
• GARDEN OF EDEN (2025) – A horror film I wish I could forget, rented via VOD.

Thanks for listening — whether you come for the movies or stay for the honesty, I appreciate you.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I welcome back returning guest and producer Elizabeth Caddy, alongside writer/director Michael Smallwood, to discuss their powerful new independent film TONIGHT AND MAYBE TOMORROW.

As the project gears up for its film festival debut, Elizabeth and Michael share the film’s origin story — from the first sparks of the script to building a creative partnership grounded in trust, vision, and shared ambition. The duo open up about navigating the challenges of indie filmmaking, working with two key financiers, and the emotional terrain their story explores.

Whether you're a fan of grounded storytelling, an aspiring filmmaker, or just love hearing about how a movie gets made from the inside out, this candid, behind-the-scenes conversation offers a window into the collaborative heart of modern independent cinema.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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Danny Boyle and Alex Garland return to the world of rage-fueled devastation with 28 YEARS LATER— but not everyone is on board. In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I break down why this new entry in the viral horror trilogy has divided American audiences, and why that might be exactly the point. 

This isn’t just a zombie flick — it’s a deeply British story with cultural scars, political echoes, and stylistic choices that don't cater to Hollywood expectations. I talk performance, aesthetic, why Garland’s storytelling hits differently across the pond, and what the shocking ending may portend in the next sequel! 

Time to rage… again.

Be Warned: SPOILERS all the way through!

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this special Father’s Day episode, I reflect on the powerful role movies have played in my relationships with both of my fathers—my dad and my stepdad. From Saturday matinees to unforgettable movie nights, I share the films that bonded us, shaped us, and stuck with me for life.

I also present my curated list of the 25 greatest films about fatherhood, exploring stories that capture the joy, complexity, heartbreak, and heroism of being a dad. Whether you're a parent, a child, or just someone who loves a good film about family, this episode is for you.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

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In this episode, host Joe Curdy welcomes Thai actress and producer Patty Srisuwan for a high-energy conversation on the groundbreaking 2005 martial arts film The Protector, starring Tony Jaa. A longtime friend of director Prachya Pinkaew, Patty brings insider knowledge and heartfelt insight into the film’s production, its cultural significance, and its global impact.

Together, they explore how THE PROTECTOR became a defining moment for Thai action cinema, the symbolism of elephants in Thai storytelling, and what makes Muay Thai choreography so electrifying on screen. The episode also takes a broader look at the Thai film industry—its challenges, evolution, and international recognition.

Whether you’re new to Thai films or a fan of high-octane action, this conversation with Patty Srisuwan is not to be missed.

Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!

Read our Letterboxd reviews at:
https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/

Follow us on Instagram at:
https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms

Follow us on TikTok at:
https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast