We Need to Talk About Oscar offers in-depth interviews with filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals. Although inspired by 'Oscar-worthy' titles, our conv...
'Audrey's Children' director Ami Canaan Mann on the timelessness of the gender gap
Our conversation with 'Audrey's Children' director Ami Canaan Mann takes us on a journey that explores not just the film itself, but the essence of storytelling, particularly the responsibility inherent in portraying real lives.The film, rooted in the historical context of 1969, serves as a mirror reflecting contemporary societal issues, especially the subtle sexism that women like Audrey faced in male-dominated fields. Ami walks us through the nuances of her directorial approach while showcasing the tenacity required to bring such a meaningful story to life.(Photo: Courtesy of Blue Harbor Entertainment)
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Magic in the Mundane: How 'Some Nights I Feel Like Walking' Captures Queer Intimacy
Diving straight into the heart of indie filmmaking, this episode features a captivating conversation with Petersen Vargas, the visionary writer-director of 'Some Nights I Feel Like Walking', and Miguel Odron, the film's breakout star in his debut role. The film, which has taken festivals by storm from Tallinn to Glasgow, explores the intricacies of queer identities within the vibrant yet tumultuous Filipino landscape.Together, they discuss how the film's structure—set in a single night—heightens the emotional stakes, turning mundane moments into powerful reflections on life, love, and loss amidst societal chaos. As they recount their experiences at various film festivals, it becomes clear that the film resonates deeply with audiences, bridging cultural gaps and inspiring conversations about vulnerability and connection in a world that often feels disconnected.(Photos: Courtesy of Daluyong Studios)
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26:08
Framing fear, with 'Control Freak' cinematographer Scott Siracusano
This week on the show, Scott Siracusano, cinematographer of 'Control Freak,' takes us behind the scenes of the nuanced process of bringing a feature film to life, especially one that builds on the eerie undercurrents of its short film predecessor. Scott shares his approach to lighting and camera movement, revealing how he crafted scenes to create an atmosphere of tension and suspense.We also discuss the technical challenges of shooting with mirrors—an innovative choice that not only enhances the film's aesthetic but also serves to deepen the audience's understanding of the characters' internal struggles. From the chaotic joy of filming and the exhilarating moments of creativity to the nerve-wracking pressures of a first-time feature, we cover it all!
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26:06
From Paintbrush to Camera: Bebe Dierken's cinematic focus through the ranks
Bebe Dierken's journey through the cinematic landscape is a tapestry woven with passion, perseverance, and a dash of serendipity. From her early days as a painter, where the still life of pumpkins nearly sent her to a creative grave, to the bustling film sets where she became a revered cinematographer, Bebe's tale is as vibrant as the frames she captures.In our chat, she shares how she stumbled upon cinematography almost by accident, discovering her love for the craft in a dark room rather than a gallery filled with canvas. With years of experience as a focus puller, she navigated the ranks of the film industry, steadily climbing from assistant to director of photography, a journey marked by both challenges and triumphs. We dive deep into her philosophy of storytelling through the lens, where lighting, composition, and emotional resonance come together to create a visual narrative that speaks universally, transcending language barriers. Her insight into the collaborative nature of filmmaking reveals how vital it is to build trust within a crew, and how her unique experiences have shaped her understanding of the industry. We also discuss her recent work on 'Midas Man', a film that embodies the quiet complexities of Brian Epstein's life, where the visuals had to serve the narrative without overshadowing it.
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25:36
We Need to Talk About Emmy #17: Peter Craig adapts ‘Dope Thief’
As we dive into the creative universe of Peter Craig, the mastermind behind the gripping series 'Dope Thief', we explore the intricacies of storytelling and character development that make this show a must-watch.Peter shares his passion for writing, revealing that the thrill of crafting a narrative comes from fully immersing himself in his characters' lives. He likens the process to an egoless trance, where the line between himself and his characters blurs, leading to deeply authentic portrayals of their struggles and triumphs.We also discuss the alchemy of transforming a book into a visual masterpiece—how he stumbled upon Dennis Tafoya's source material and immediately recognized its potential for a rich, dramatic narrative. By embracing both the chaos and humor of life, 'Dope Thief' captures the complexities of human nature in a way that is both compelling and deeply resonant.(Photo: Courtesy of Apple)
We Need to Talk About Oscar offers in-depth interviews with filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals. Although inspired by 'Oscar-worthy' titles, our conversations extend to buzzy projects and TV shows, exploring both the technical aspects of filmmaking and the personal stories behind them.