Director's Club

This month the Director's Club takes a Phantasmic journey through the films of director Don Coscarelli. Coming from the "New Wave of Horror", Coscarelli combined abtract nightmare imagery, a youthful small-town generosity, and an iconic imposing prescence of a Tall Man to create his legendary horror movie "Phantasm", which has become a series unique in the personal touches from its creator and his friends over 25 years. We look at the fascinating qualities of each filim in the series, as well as his other notable films like "Survival Quest", "John Dies at the End", and "Bubba Ho-Tep" (which may be the most insightful look at the King of Rock 'n' Roll on film!) 7:57 "Phantasm" (Theme from "Phantasm", Fred Myrow and Malcolm Seagrave) 36:14 "The Beastmaster" ("The Number of the Beast", Iron Maiden) 47:34 "Phantasm II" ("Ballbreaker", AC/DC) 1:04:06 "Survival Quest" ("Fight to Survive", White Lion) 1:13:25 "Phantasm III" ("Ball Crusher", Steppenwolf) 1:25:47 "Phantasm IV" ("Ball and Biscuit", The White Stripes) 1:39:13 "Bubba Ho-Tep" ("The King's Highway", Brian Tyler) 2:01:20 "John Dies at the End" ("The Beginning Is The End Is The Beginning", The Smashing Pumpkins) 2:13:46 "Phantasm V" ("The Passage of Time", The Orb) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode we feature one of the first great directors to get his start in early television and the helmer of such classics as "The Manchurian Candidate" and "Seconds", John Frankenheimer. Frankenheimer had an amazing run of films in the sixties that also included "Birdman of Alcatraz" and "Seven Days in May". We talk about how his go-for-broke kinetic style not only took these films to the next level, but lead even his more questionable later films to make for a fascinating discussion. So enjoy the wild journey (including trips by train and blimp) and watch out for birds, bears, beast-men, and Burt Lancaster. [0:00] Early TV work: "The Comedian", "Days of Wine and Roses" [10:01] "The Young Savages" ("Youth Gone Wild", Skid Row) [21:03] "Birdman of Alcartraz" ("Blackbird", The Beatles) [33:58] "The Machurian Candidate" ("Solitaire", Laura Branigan) [56:40] "Seven Days in May" ("Generals and Majors", XTC) [1:11:35] "The Train" ("Train Kept a Rollin'", The Yardbirds) [1:29:42] "Seconds" ("Seconds", U2) [1:54:03] LIGHTNING ROUND: "Grand Prix", "The Extraordinary Seamen", "The Iceman Cometh", "99 & 44/100% Dead" ("I am Lightning", Roger Daltrey) [2:09:00] "The French Connection 2" ("Heroin", The Velvet Underground) [2:20:32] "Black Sunday" (from John Williams' score from the film) [2:33:16] "Prophecy" ("Let Me Be Your Teddy Bear", Elvis Presley) [2:40:42] "52 Pick-Up" ("Don't Get Mad, Get Even", Aerosmith) [2:50:37] "The Island of Dr. Moreau", ("I Am an Animal", Pete Townshend) [3:06:07] "Ronin" ("Master of Puppets", Metallica) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Director's Club, we try to keep pace with the second half of the career of Werner Herzog. It's a journey that moves from examinations of social issues we deal with today to artistry from the dawn of man (presented in 3D, no less!), from the Alaskan wilderness to the hearts of volcanoes to the southernmost part of the Earth itself, and leapfrogs several times over the borders of documentary and fiction filmmaking. (8:30) "Lessons of Darkness" (21:06) "Little Dieter Needs to Fly" (35:26) "My Best Fiend" (48:31) "Grizzly Man" (1:17:05) "Rescue Dawn" (1:30:24) "Encounters at the End of the World" (1:46:02) "Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call: New Orleans" (2:00:15) "Cave of Forgotten Dreams" (2:10:44) "Into the Abyss" (2:24:24) "Salt and Fire" (2:38:06) "Into the Inferno" This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Director's Club takes a journey through the many amazing works of legendary independent filmmaker John Sayles. Joined sporadically by Now Playing Network uber-guru (and Director's Club founder!) Jim Laczkowski, we explore a career filled with complex characters and stories illuminating many kinds of cultures, communities, and social concerns, all while providing a level of quality, honesty, and deep humanism to films ranging from science fiction to children's fable to sports movie, to maybe the ultimate Western mystery about the country's borders and its pasts. (11:06) "Return of the Secaucus Seven" ("Reelin In the Years", Steely Dan) (27:58) "Lianna" ("Be Yourself", Audioslave) (43:52) "Baby, It's You" / Bruce Springsteen videos ("If I Was Frank Sinatra", Soulvitamins) (58:36) "Brother From Another Planet" ("Starman", David Bowie) (1:10:15) "Matewan" ("Fire In the Hole", Hazel Dickens) (1:31:30) "Eight Men Out"("Born to Lose", Johnny Thunders) (1:47:39) "City of Hope" ("Progress", Bad Religion) (2:04:27) "Passion Fish" ("Don't Give Up", Peter Gabriel w/ Kate Bush) (2:15:59) "The Secret of Roan Inish" ("On an Island", David Gilmour) (2:28:41) "Lone Star" / "Men With Guns" ("I Shot the Sheriff", Eric Clapton) (3:05:31) "Limbo" / Brief looks from "Sunshine State" through "Go For Sisters" ("Limbo", Brian Ferry) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Writer-director Preston Sturges had one of the most incandescent runs of creativity in Hollywood History, making eight remarkable films from 1940 to 1944. In this episode of the Director's Club, we're joined by Jeff Broitman of Fresh Perspective as we take a look at the unique way Sturges could combine screwball visual antics, waterfalls of breathless dialogue, and a continuous sense of comedic innovation, while capturing the absurdity behind the rises and falls of his characters' fortunes. (8:21) "The Great McGinty" ("I Wanna Be A Politician", The Byrds) (28:48) "Christmas In July" ("My Lucky Day", Bruce Springsteen) (38:14) "The Lady Eve" ("Garden of Eden", Guns N' Roses) (54:33) "Sullivan's Travels" ("Sometimes a Fantasy", Billy Joel) (1:21:15) "The Palm Beach Story" ("Love or Confusion", Jimi Hendrix) (1:39:53) "The Miracle of Morgan's Creek" ("Papa Don't Preach", Madonna as interpreted through Weird Al Yankovic) (1:59:37) "Hail the Conquering Hero" (Holding Out for a Hero", Bonnie Tyler) (2:10:45) "The Great Moment" ("Unfinished Sweet", Alice Cooper) (2:23:47) "The Sin of Harold Diddlebock" ("So, The Circus is Back in Town", The Cato Salsa Experience) (2:34:31) "Unfaithfully Yours" ("Suspicious Minds", Elvis Presley) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Jim here, returning for a special conversation with a remarkably talented actor turned director. This is our third time talking and likely not to be our last. Keith Gordon who you might remember from such films as CHRISTINE, DRESSED TO KILL, BACK TO SCHOOL and many more, decided to focus primarily on directing in the late 80s / early 90s. I wanted to have him back on to discuss the experience of directing one of my favorite shows on TV, LEGION, since I couldn't have been more excited about his work on the recent (and divisive) season 2 finale. We then transition into a thorough conversation on overlooked films from the decade of the 90s as well as a brief foray into Keith's favorite Coen Brothers film. It's a must-hear for fans of Keith's past podcast appearences as well as cinephiles looking to add some titles to their queue. Thank you so much for listening and again, thank you to the great Keith Gordon for his third appearence on the podcast(s). Keith Gordon Episode Archives:https://www.directorsclubpodcast.com/archives/keithgordonarchives Underrated Films Of The 1990s:https://letterboxd.com/jimlaczkowski/list/underrated-films-from-the-1990s Underrated Films Of The 1980s:https://letterboxd.com/jimlaczkowski/list/underrated-films-from-the-1980s Underrated Films Of The 1970s:https://letterboxd.com/jimlaczkowski/list/underrated-films-from-the-1970s Underrated Films Of The 1960s:https://letterboxd.com/jimlaczkowski/list/underrated-films-from-the-1960s This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Once in a while a director comes along with such an original and distinctive vision that you can return to his work again and again and continue to discover new depths. Robert Altman is such a director and has inspired us to release our first Director's Club Redux episode. In Part 1, we cover the maverick director's breakout blockbuster M*A*S*H, all the way to his not so blockbuster take on Popeye. In between, we look at his deconstructions of Westerns (McCabe & Mrs. Miller), noirs (The Long Goodbye) and musicals (Nashville), all the way to such uncategorizable gems as 3 Women. We are pleased to welcome back Bill Ackerman, host of the Now Playing Network's Supporting Characters + From The Neighborhood as our guest for this episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Director's Club encounters environments from the dephts of the ocean up to the stars as we explore the work of screenwriter, filmmaker, and Riddick Chronicler David Twohy! Helping immensely in our quest is Paul Freitag-Fey, a writer for Daily Grindhouse who showcases underseen films in Chicago at the Comfort Station and streaming hidden gems at http://watchthisthing.net . With him joining in on the journey, we not only point out how Twohy puts inspired twists on genre conventions and has running themes about identity and shifting responsibilities and perspective, but bring up a wealth of other fascinating under-recognized films to check out! (6:44) "Grand Tour: Disaster in Time" ("Für Elise", Ludwig van Beethoven) (25:59) "The Arrival" ("Here Come the Bas tards", Primus) (46:10) "Pitch Black" ("The Sound of Silence", Simon & Garfunkel) (1:10:20) "Below" ("Sing Sing Sing!", Benny Goodman) (1:32:44) "The Chronicles of Riddick" ("Complicated", Avril Lavigne) (1:50:19) "A Perfect Getaway" ("Many Tentacles Pimpin on the Keys (Escape!)", Lo Fidelity Allstars (2:08:45) "Riddick" ("Lawless Lands", The Sword) (2:30:43) Other recommended hidden gems and directors This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

For it's 150th episode, the Director's Club takes a Monumental trek through the latter films of John Ford. With the help of Peter Richards from the Chicago Film Discussion Group, we see how through films like his 'Cavalry Trilogy', "The Sun Shines Bright", "The Searchers" and up to "Cheyenne Autumn", Ford's evolving attitudes about race, the West, and the conflict between individuals and community, between truth, sentiment, and myth, found expression in iconic performances, increasingly thoughtful stories, and in the very landscape of Monument Valley itself! (5:57) "Fort Apache" ("Apache", The Shadows) (26:07) "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon" ("I Don't Need Your Rockin' Chair", George Jones) (44:12) "Wagon Master" ("I Am a Pilgrim", The Byrds) (55:40) "Rio Grande" ("Goin' Down To Mexico", ZZ Top) (1:07:26) "A Quiet Man" ("Star of the County Down", Van Morrison) (1:21:48) "The Sun Shines Bright" ("My Old Kentucky Home", performed by John Prine) (1:41:30) "Mr. Roberts" ("In The Navy", The Village People) (1:54:09) "The Searchers" ("Searchin'", The Coasters) (2:21:18) "The Last Hurrah" ("The Final Countdown", Europe) (2:39:14) "Sergeant Rutledge" ("I Stand Accused", Elvis Costello) (2:50:53) "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" ("Democracy", Leonard Cohen) (3:13:41) "Cheyenne Autumn" ("Exodus", Bob Marley) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The Directors Club tries to live up to the first part of its name, as in this episode we take a look at two seperate directors at once: English filmmaking brothers Martin ("In Bruges") and John Michael ("Calvary") McDonagh. While they haven't officially worked on a film together, there are some fascinating connections of dark humor, empathy, faith, and a desire to subvert expectations that can be found when looking through their films together, from "Second Death" through the award-winning "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" 2:30 John Michael's "The Second Death" ("The Ghost In You", Psychedelic Furs) 9:43 Martin's "Six Shooter" ("Come As You Are", Nirvana) 22:05 Martin's "In Bruges" ("Bedlam in Belgium", AC/DC) 55:20 John Michael's "The Guard" ("Changing Of The Guards", The Patti Smith Group) 1:09:11 Martin's "Seven Psychopaths" ("Crazy", Gnarls Barkeley) 1:22:43 John Michael's "Calvary" ("We Shall Not Overcome", Frank Turner) 1:41:47 John Michael's "War On Everyone" ("War", Edwin Starr) 2:01:02 Martin's "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" ("The Sign", Ace of Base) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Jim here again, sneaking in with a short bonus episode cross-posted with V+V. One of the greatest joys to experience in the fine city of Chicago is sitting down to watch a screening of a classic film at The Music Box Theatre. It has been my favorite movie theater for quite some time and when the opportunity came to talk to the general manager of this theater, I could not have been more thrilled. Ryan Oestreich has a long history with the film industry, particularly film festival programming and theater management. He is now able to combine both of his passions alongside Josh Goldbloom, to put together a film festival that I can't wait to cover this summer: The Cinepocalypse! Ryan and I briefly cover his past experience and then we launch into our endless excitement for the many films and special events happening from June 21st to the 28th. You can listen to us passionately talk about some of the titles we're looking forward to of course, but also be sure to visit the links below to buy a festival badge or tickets to any number of screenings coming up in about a month. Ryan is a hard-working, energetic guest with a lot to contribute so even if you're not in the Chicagoland area and have no familiarity with the Music Box, I have no doubt that as a movie fanatic, you'll find a lot to enjoy throughout our conversation. More About Cinepocalypse 2018 Ryan's New Music Box Podcast Live 80s All Over Podcast Recording! Music Box on Facebook This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The Director's Club pays a return journey to the world of Akira Kurosawa! Focusing this time on the second half of his career, we take a loo k at his biggest box office success, his iconic lone samurai warrior Sanjuro, the multiple great performances he got from Toshiro Mifune and Tatsuya Nakadai, and his influences on a galaxy far far away. We'll check out the ways his later films astound on multiple levels, how he fell out of favorin the movie business and what led to one of the greatest late career resurgences in movie history! (2:03) "The Hidden Fortress" ("Fortress", Pinback) (15:18) "The Bad Sleep Well" ("Money & Corruption", The Kinks) (27:36) "Yojimbo" (Theme from "A Fistful of Dollars") (39:26) "Sanjuro" ("I Am The Sword", Motorhead) (50:34) "High and Low" ("Going Underground", The Jam) (1:15:56) "Red Beard" / The "Tora! Tora! Tora!" debacle ("Doctor My Eyes", Jackson Browne) (1:38:26) "Dersu Usala" ("Sprawl II: Mountains Beyond Mountains", Arcade Fire) (1:52:17) "Kagemusha" ("Me And My Shadow", Johnny Marvin) (2:15:35) "Ran" (Soundtrack from "Ran")ru Takemitsu) (2:47:09) "Dreams" ("Street of Dreams", Rainbow) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Jim here again! Well, I can't believe, This is 40? One day in and I can already say that it's nothing like that overlong Judd Apatow movie. While waiting for my midlife crisis to commence, I invited my old compadre over to the recording studio for a conversation in the tradition of our old-school bonus episodes! This time, we even play a round of Score Bits, inspired by the one and only Film Junk Podcast. At the top, you'll hear me introduce this joyful birthday present, bookended by songs from my favorite band, The New Pornographers. First up, we catch you all up on how things have been for the two of us, then we review two movies that we assigned to one another. Patrick assigned MANJI for me and I assigned one of my all-time favorites, TAKE SHELTER. After that, Score Bits begins after a brief intermission and that is definitely a highlight for the both of us. We challenge our sense memory, musical knowledge, and more with this wild take on "Name That Tune" revised as "Name That Movie!" As a birthday present for one of the main reasons for the inception of this podcast, please give it a listen and enjoy the rambling digressions you came to know and love back in the day. Brad and Al will return in a week or so with a traditional episode of course! Thank you again to everybody for supporting me over the years and for subscribing to Director's Club! 00:00 - 04:20 - Introduction 04:21 - 04:59 - "Sing Me Spanish Techno" - New Pornographers 05:01 - 12:42 - Introduction With Patrick & Jim 12:43 - 01:07:20 - Reviews of MANJI + TAKE SHELTER 01:07:21 - 02:15:19 - Score Bits! 02:15:20 - 02:24:06 - Outro 02:24:07 - 02:25:03 - "Bleeding Heart Show" - New Pornographers http://voicesvisions.net http://nowplayingnetwork.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Hello there everyone! Jim here. Former co-host of this here show. More is explained in the intro(s) but I decided to offer up a special bonus treat here for both Director's Club + Voices and Visions alike. I had the pleasure of seeing a very good new film called AND THEN I GO, directed by my first guest Vincent Grashaw. We had a great talk about the inspiration behind the film and his process. Then, I was absolutely honored and thrilled to talk to one of my all-time favorite actresses, Melanie Lynskey (HEAVENLY CREATURES, SHATTERED GLASS, THE INFORMANT!). It was a short but sweet interview with a lot of great insights about being an actress, as well as singing the praises of her incredible career. I can't encourage you enough to give this episode your time and attention, if only for another announcement that involves Patrick and I at the top here. Thank you so much for listening and to Brad + Al for keeping the show alive and better than ever! 00:00 - 12:34 - Introduction 12:35 - 25:25 - Interview with Vincent Grashaw 25:26 - 40:15 - Interview with Melanie Lynskey For more on AND THEN I GO: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2018111/ https://play.google.com/store/movies/details?id=2j1rD5YHnjo This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

We are pleased to welcome back Chicago Film Discussion Group Organizer Peter Richards as we look at the comic and kinetic career of the U.K.’s own Edgar Wright. Best known for his trilogy of genre parodies with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, he’d also bring some wild innovations to his American offerings, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and Baby Driver. We’ll discuss them all and decide which ones are worth missing a night at the pub for. 7:52 A Fistful of Fingers / Wright's early TV work ("Fingertips Part 2", Stevie Wonder) 20:56 Shaun of the Dead ("I Walked With a Zombie", Roky Erikson) 30:05 Hot Fuzz ("Police and Thieves", The Clash) 53:41 Scott Pilgrim vs. the World ("Threshold", Sex Bob-omb) 1:17:22 The World’s End / Ant-Man ("Until the End of the World", U2) 1:41:18 Baby Driver ("Baby Driver", Simon & Garfunkel) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Director's Club takes a trek to Hungary to check out the films of Béla Tarr, whose long shots without cutting, luscious imagery of darkness, deliberate yet poetic camera movements, and stark perspectives of man and nature has sculpted out some of the most unforgettable moments in film. In addition to trying to describe what makes his films so special, we look at how he developed his style over decades (and with the help of several talented collaborators), and we explore the world of "contemplative cinema" of which Tarr's work is a prominent example. 00:00 Introduction to contemplative cinema and Tarr's early history 19:09 "Family Nest" 25:48 "The Outsider" 36:49 "Prefab People" / "MacBeth" 50:06 "Almanac of Fall" / Tarr's collaborators from here onward 1:08:42 "Damnation" 1:25:36 "Sátántangó" 1:43:16 "Werckmeister Harmonies" 2:07:03 "The Man From London" 2:23:01 "The Turin Horse" This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Director's Club delves into the Green Valleys, Stagecoaches, and Long Voyages shown in the works of the legendary director John Ford. With the help of fellow Chicago Film Discussion Group member Peter Richards (who guested on our Terence Malick episode), in Part I of our series we not only look into his classic early films, but lesser-known yet no less fascinating efforts which include silent epics, minimalist treks through the desert, dark foggy nights of the Irish soul, and even comedies starring Will Rogers, and how Ford's genius with a film image and concerns of family, history, and myth flow through them. 16:56 "The Iron Horse" ("Mystery Train", Elvis Presley) 28:22 "Pilgrimage" ("Pilgramage", R.E.M.) 38:39 "The Lost Patrol" ("Desert Blues", The Allman Brothers Band) 52:35 "Judge Priest" ("Funky Judge", The J. Geils Band) 1:03:30 "The Informer" ("God Loves a Drunk", Richard Thompson) 1:20:33 "Stagecoach" (Theme from "Stagecoach") 1:38:40 "Young Mr. Lincoln" ("Young Abe Lincoln Make A Tall, Tall Man", Johnny Horton) 1:49:36 "Grapes of Wrath" ("The Ghost of Tom Joad", Bruce Springsteen) 2:07:50 "The Long Voyage Home" ("Ship of Fools", Robert Plant) 2:21:50 "How Green was my Valley" ("Working In a Coal Mine", DEVO) 2:48:37 Ford's WW2 wartime shorts / "They Were Expendable" ("Brothers In Arms", Dire Straits) 3:02:54 "My Darling Clementine" ("Clementine", The Decembrists) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

It's an action-packed episode of the Director's Club as we look at the works of Andrew Davis. Most well-known as director of "The Fugitive", one of the greatest action movies ever made, we explore his ability to enhance a wide range of films (from those of Samuel Z. Arkoff and Chuck Norris to even Alfred Hitchcock) and how he infuses them with great energy, character and Chicago flavor from his very first movie! 5:53 "Stony Island" ("The Stony Island Band", The Stony Island Band) 17:54 "The Final Terror" ("He's Back: The Man Behind the Mask", Alice Cooper) 25:26 "Code of Silence" ("Code of Silence", Billy Joel with Cyndi Lauper) 36:54 "Above the Law" ("Breaking the Law", Judas Priest) 50:55 "The Package" ("Back in the USSR", The Beatles) 1:01:48 "Under Siege" ("Ship to Wreck", Florence +The Machine) 1:17:39 "The Fugitive" ("Run Like Hell", Pink Floyd) 1:32:37 "Chain Reaction" ("Chain Reaction", Journey) 1:39:10 "A Perfect Murder" ("Smooth Criminal", Michael Jackson) 1:54:35 "Collateral Damage" ("Fire", The Jimi Hendrix Eperience) 2:03:08 "Holes" ("Digging in the Dirt", Peter Gabriel) 2:14:25 "The Guardian" ("Holy Diver", Dio) Check out Jim's interview with Andrew Davis from a few years ago This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to the exciting conclusion! The Director's Club / Voices & Visions crossover continues once again! Last year around this time, it was so warm outside, we opened the windows. This time, it was cold & snowy (hence the sound of the heater throughout). But have no fear! Your loyal Chicago film critics are here to carry on the tradition of going back 30 years to cover a year in film that they all grew up with. Starting from about 1985, our hosts became film fanatics with different tastes, but similiar memories of videostores, working at movie theaters, and watching many R-rated titles at a young age. This special 2-part bonus episode will continue every February, for every year. For 2018 of course, we travel back to 1988 and relive the entire year. Just about every weekend of releases are mentioned from classics like WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT to obscure discoveries like BAGDAD CAFE. How much will Jim & Erik argue the merits of certain horror movie sequels? Does either David Byrne or Bono come up courtesy of superfan Collin? You'll have to listen to the 4 and a half hours of conversation to find out. Part One Is Available Here: http://www.directorsclubpodcast.com/blog/1988partone Follow Collin: https://letterboxd.com/cdsouter/list/best-of-1988/ Follow Jim: https://letterboxd.com/nowplayingjim/list/1988-ranked/ Follow Erik: https://letterboxd.com/erikthemovieman/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The Director's Club / Voices & Visions crossover continues once again! Last year around this time, it was so warm outside, we opened the windows. This time, it was cold & snowy (hence the sound of the heater throughout). But have no fear! Your loyal Chicago film critics are here to carry on the tradition of going back 30 years to cover a year in film that they all grew up with. Starting from about 1985, our hosts became film fanatics with different tastes, but similiar memories of videostores, working at movie theaters, and watching many R-rated titles at a young age. This special 2-part bonus episode will continue every February, for every year. For 2018 of course, we travel back to 1988 and relive the entire year. Just about every weekend of releases are mentioned from classics like WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT to obscure discoveries like BAGDAD CAFE. How much will Jim & Erik argue the merits of certain horror movie sequels? Does either David Byrne or Bono come up courtesy of superfan Collin? You'll have to listen to the 4 and a half hours of conversation to find out. The intermission begins at about the 02:15:00 mark and the show continues for Part Two! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to 2018! In this episode, the Director's Club gives a look at Rob Reiner, who has one of the most two-sided careers in filmmaking history. Through the first part, it was like he could do no wrong, putting great polish and attention to romantic comedies, coming-of-age stories, tongue-in-cheek takes on fantasy, and inventing the mockumentary. In the second half, it was like he was trying to make up for the first half (when Roger Ebert makes his negative review the title of one of his books, you know you're doing something anti-right!). We'll take a look at the good and the bad, exploring how one guy can exist on both ends of the film quality spectrum. 9:55 "This is Spinal Tap" ("Heavy Metal Poisoning", Styx)) 32:09 "The Sure Thing" ("Local Girls", Graham Parker) 38:33 "Stand By Me" ("We're Going To Be Friends", The White Stripes) 52:08 "The Princess Bride" ("Kings and Queens", Aerosmith) 1:05:22 "When Harry Met Sally" ("Ain't Talkin' Bout Love", Van Halen) 1:18:56 "Misery" ("Every Day I Write the Book", Elvis Costello) 1:30:19 "A Few Good Men" ("When The Generals Talk", Midnight Oil) 1:46:46 "North" ("Parents Just Don't Understand", DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince) 1:57:57 "The American President" ("Naked and Famous", The Presidents of the United States of America) 2:10:25 "Ghosts of Mississippi" ("We Shall Overcome", Mahalia Jackson 2:19:01 "The Story of Us" ("If You Leave", Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark) 2:26:30 "Rumor Has It" ("Mrs. Robinson", Frank Sinatra) 2:35:27 "The Bucket List" ("The Bucket", Kings of Leon) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Together again. Gee, it's good to be together again. Jim and Patrick return for their yearly tradition of running down favorites and highlights from the past twelve months. In addition, they answer some emails, read many listener contributions/lists, and discuss the future. They hand out some awards, gifts, and throw paper at one another. Surprisingly, there isn't nearly as many puns and weird voices this time but since it became a 5-hour recording, they dependably get loopy as the show goes on. It's a show so big, it had to be split into two parts. Part One is here 00:00 - 01:25- Jim's Favorite Song Of 2017 01:26 - 01:31:05 - #10 - #5 Films Of The Year 01:31:06 - 02:32:21 - #5 - #2 Films Of The Year 02:32:22 - 02:56:15 - Favorite Film Of 2017 02:56:16 - 03:00:36 - Outro / See You At The End Of 2018? Follow Jim & Patrick On Letterboxd: 2017 Films Ranked - JIM 2017 Films Ranked - PATRICK This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Together again. Gee, it's good to be together again. Jim and Patrick return for their yearly tradition of running down favorites and highlights from the past twelve months. In addition, they answer some emails, read many listener contributions/lists, and discuss the future. They hand out some awards, gifts, and throw paper at one another. Surprisingly, there isn't nearly as many puns and weird voices this time but since it became a 5-hour recording, they dependably get loopy as the show goes on. It's a show so big, it had to be split into two parts. Part Two Is Here! 00:00 - 01:55 - Introduction 01:56 - 02:50 - Patrick's Favorite Song Of 2017 02:51 - 11:01 - Caveats 11:02 - 20:04 - List Of Shame 20:05 - 01:01:21 - Ancillary Awards, Answering Emails 01:01:21 - 02:03:05 - #25 - #11 Films Of 2017 Follow Jim & Patrick On Letterboxd: 2017 Films Ranked - JIM 2017 Films Ranked - PATRICK This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The Director's Club wanted to finish off the year right and begin the new one with a bang, so we're having our first 2018 episode on the films of epic director Akira Kurosawa. This episode looks at the first half of his career, looking in on his early works from "Sanshiro Sugata" through his run of masterpieces ("Rashomon", "Ikiru", "Seven Samurai", "Throne of Blood"). Hope you all have a happy new year in 2018, and that you enjoy listening to us talk about his amazing films at least half as much as we did recording it for you! 7:18 Early works: "Sanshiro Sugata 1 and 2", "The Most Beautiful", "The Men Who Tread On the Tiger's Tail" ("Black Clouds", Papa Roach) 21:48 "Drunken Angel" ("Dirty Water", The Standells) 34:04 "Stray Dog" ("Heatwave", Martha Reeves & The Vandellas) 46:20 "Rashomon" ("Black Sheets of Rain", Bob Mould) 1:10:28 "Ikiru" ("While I Shovel the Snow", The Walkmen) 1:38:50 "The Seven Samurai" ("Heavy Rain", Boris) 2:09:01 "Throne of Blood" (Theme from John Carpenter's "The Fog") This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Now Playing Network Master of Ceremonies (and Director's Club founder) Jim Laczkowski joins us for this episode which has us looking at the films of French Canadian filmmaker Denis Villeneuve! With Jim's help, we look at how Villeneuve brings his unique combination of thoughtfulness, pathos, family focus, and strangeness to dramas, genre thrillers, and films across the sci-fi spectrum. Includes lots of spiders and one talking fish. 14:23 "August 32nd on Earth" / "Maelstrom" ("Fish Heads", Barnes & Barnes) 24:26 "Polytechnique" ("Straws Pulled At Random", Meshuggah) 37:06 "Incendies" ("You And Whose Army?", Radiohead) 1:00:14 "Prisoners" ("The Prisoner", Iron Maiden) 1:20:49 "Enemy" ("Know Your Enemy", Rage Against the Machine) 1:41:29 "Sicario" ("Perro Negro Granjero", Molotov) 2:00:08 "Arrival" ("Communication Breakdown", Led Zeppelin) 2:18:20 "Blade Runner 2049" ("Dangerous Days", Pertubator) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode the Director's Club takes a look at the films of James Whale (with the help of Fresh Perspective's Jeff Broitman). Whale's innovations in camera movement and special effects, set of quirky character actors in supporting roles, and appreciation of the outsiders in society was put to good use in musicals, war films, and courtroom dramas, but never better than when he was making some of the most iconic horror movies in history! 00:00 Pre-film history, "Journey's End" 11:21 "Waterloo Bridge", ("Under the Bridge", Red Hot Chili Peppers 21:18 "Frankenstein", "Impatient Maiden" ("Frankenstein", The Edgar Winter Group) 48:23 "The Old Dark House", "The Kiss Before the Mirror" ("Our House", Madness) 1:11:40 "The Invisible Man" ("I'm Not There", Bob Dylan) 1:29:38 "One More River" ("Find a River", R.E.M.) 1:39:04 "Bride of Frankenstein" ("Be My Wife", David Bowie) 2:09:09 "Remember Last Night?", "The Road Back" ("Dire Wolf" The Grateful Dead) 2:17:41 "Show Boat", "The Road Back" ("Old Man River", Paul Robeson) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The Director's Club finish our epic look at epic auteur Orson Welles, who managed to continue creating some amazing film moments despite becoming mostly exiled from the Hollywood studio system. In Part II we look from his takes on Shakespeare with "Othello" and "Chimes At Midnight", through his acidic noir "Touch of Evil", to his 'deconstructumentary' film "F for Fake", and along the way talk about his many unfinished films (one of which may see the light of day yet). His work proved so inspiring we not only looked to compare them to the efforts of Jacques Tati and Alfred Hitchcock, but had to invent words to describe some characters and even hairstyles in his movies! Hope we were able to bring across the brazenly enthusiastic creativity to be found in Orson Welles' films! 0:00 Intro ("Independence Day", Bruce Springsteen) 2:23 "Othello" / The 'controversy' about "The Third Man" ("Jealousy", Queen)26:14 "Mr. Arkadin / Confidential Report" ("Hope for the Best, Expect the Worst", Mel Brooks) 41:52 "Touch of Evil" ("Framed", The Coasters) 1:04:47 "The Trial" ("Trapped", Jimmy Cliff) 1:23:38 "Chimes at Midnight / Falstaff" ("Led Astray", Friction) 1:55:44 "The Immortal Story" / Welles' ongoing film projects ("Flesh for Fantasy", Billy Idol) 2:05:57 "F for Fake" ("Lies", The Knickerbockers) 2:20:20 "Filming Othello" / "The Other Side of the Wind" This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode the Director's Club tries to grasp the enormity of the works of Orson Welles. It's an extended look at the creative audacity that led to so much artistic triumph and career tragedy, and to make sense of it we include a look at his pre-film life and the many cinema endeavors that sadly never made it to the film screen. In part 1 we look at his start working for the movie studios, from his epic "Citizen Kane" through his take on Shakespeare's "Macbeth". 00:00 Intro / Welles' early life on stage, radio attempted first films 21:15 "Citizen Kane" ("The Union Forever", The White Stripes) 57:30 "The Magnificent Ambersons" / "It's All True" ("The Village Green Preservation Society", The Kinks) 1:20:10 "The Stranger" ("The Stranger", Billy Joel) 1:33:56 "The Lady from Shanghai" 1:48:00 "MacBeth" ("Miss MacBeth", Elvis Costello) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

This episode has the Director's Club looking at the films of Alan Parker, whose atmospheric visuals, ability at world-building, affinity to and for music, and brushes with controversy are some of the themes pulsing through a wide range of films in his career. This led us to an epic conversation which ranged from rampant praise to stupefying anger and to several extended arguments about the value of his work. We were treated to a return visit from Chicago cinerenaissance man Collin Souter, who not only joined in the conversation from coming back from a U2 show, but provided the DC with some excellent U2 music clips to introduce each film! Thanks for joining us, Collin! (Warning: Contents contain some slight audio issues and Matthew Modine) 9:20 Bugsy Malone ("Miami") 19:26 Midnight Express ("Lemon" (live) 33:59 Fame ("Original of the Species") 48:39 Shoot the Moon ("With Or Without You") 1:09:07 Pink Floyd the Wall ("Mofo") 1:35:04 Birdy ("Walk On") 1:49:31 Angel Heart ("If God Will Send His Angels") 2:02:33 Mississippi burning ("Bullet the Blue Sky") 2:24:52 Come See the Paradise ("Refugee") 2:34:59 The Commitments ("Angel of Harlem") 2:49:33 Road To Wellville ("Miracle Drug") 3:04:21 Evita ("The Ground Beneath Her Feet") 3:19:42 Angela's Ashes ("Twilight") 3:32:45 Life of David Gale ("Wake Up, Dead Man") This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode the Director's Club takes a look at the works of South Korean director Bong Joon-ho, who has made several remarkable movies (often in the same movie!) Joining us on the journey is Robert Reineke (podcaster from "Still Watching the Skies"), and we had a blast talking about the many zany and fascinating details of his films. 6:20 "Incoherence" 13:18 "Barking Dogs Never Bite" ("Hey Bulldog") 28:24 "Memories of Murder" ("Run For Your Life") 46:32 "The Host" ("I'm Only Sleeping") 1:04:40 "Tokyo!" 1:10:45 "Mother" ("Your Mother Should Know") 1:33:07 "Snowpiercer" ("Revolution") 1:58:00 "Okja" ("Piggies") 2:16:08 Summary and Max Bong Moment This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Jim here everyone! It's been awhile since I took the crossover approach for an episode, allowing it to exist for both Director's Club & Voices and Visions. Since my guests today are both tremendously talented filmmakers with a lot of insights, stories and new projects to promote, I decided to include this in both feeds. After my introduction to the proceedings, I first speak with writer/director Jonathan Milott who alongside collaborator Cary Murnion have recently made a film called BUSHWICK that couldn't be more timely. We delve into exactly why that is as well as the history between this team who is also responsible for the indie horror/comedy COOTIES. Even if Skype was not kind to my side of the recording, thankfully Jonathan comes through crystal clear! BUSHWICK is worth your time and Jonathan shared a lot about the filmmaking process behind his latest action thriller. P.S Cary and Jonathan are not brothers. At around the 40 minute mark, I then speak with someone I've known for quite awhile since she also happens to be the wife of one of my closest friends and former guests, Mr. Dan Solomon. Katherine Craft is an established writer in many forms with a lot of success stories, both as an activist and as a creative artist. Her latest endeavor involves HBO (yes that HBO) so we discuss the experience surrounding that as well as her IndieGoGo campaign for her personal project CHARLOTTE AND CHARLIE, which I hope you'll contribute to. Both interviews provide a lot of great commentary on the art of directing, writing, within the film and theater industries, so I am positive you'll get a lot of these talks. And be sure to follow the work of Katherine linked below! Kat's IndieGoGo Campaign: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/charlotte-and-charlie-car Kat's Personal Website: http://www.katherinecraft.com/ More about Jonathan's Film, BUSHWICK: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4720702/ Jonathan & Cary's Personal Website: http://www.caryandjon.com/about/ Jim's Interview Podcast: http://voicesvisions.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Director's Club looks at the flims of Sofia Coppola (a.k.a., "The Good One"), whose movies had a dreamlike feeling of melancholy isolation, level of visual composition, and focus on young womanhood that was evident from the start of her career. We're joined in our journey through her film work (that takes us from L.A. to Tokyo to Versailles to the Civil War South) by Rebecca Martin, an ultra-promoter of film appreciation in the Chicago area and host of Now Playing Network's "Fresh Perspective". (10:02) "Lick the Star" (17:38) "The Virgin Suicides" (Air, "Playground Love") (39:22) "Lost In Translation" (My Bloody Valentine, "Sometimes") (1:10:34) "Marie Antoinette" (Bow Wow Wow: "I Want Candy") (1:25:17) "Somewhere" (The Strokes, "I'll Try Anything Once") (1:48:17) "The Bling Ring" (M.I.A., "Bad Girls") (2:12:54) "The Beguiled" ("Lorena", Civil War traditional song) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Director's Club, we take a look at the unrestrainable visions of legendary German director Werner Herzog, following his quest to give audiences a sense of the "ecstatic truth" through his films. He'll use any tool at his disposal to deliver this truth, from documentary techniques to hypnosis (and if there isn't a tool, he'll make one himself!). We'll look at how the films span the globe from the Amazon to the Sahara to Wisconsin, and how his Muses of Madness Bruno S. and Klaus K. enhance the journeys we take. What we can't do is fit all his works in a single episode, so this will cover from his first film "Signs of Life" through his 1987 film "Cobra Verde", and scattered throughout are quotes from the "Soldier of Cinema" himself! (8:23) "Signs of Life" (29:21) "Even Dwarfs Started Small" (40:34) "Fata Morgana" (52:59) "Land of Silence and Darkness" (1:11:09) "Aguirre, the Wrath of God" (1:30:06) "The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser" (1:48:47) "Heart of Glass" (2:05:57) "Stroszek" (2:24:21) "Nosferatu the Vampyre" (2:40:02) "Woyzeck" (2:52:39) "Fitzcarraldo" (3:13:27) "Where the Green Ants Dream" (3:21:03) "Cobra Verde" This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

This episode alongside guest film critic Collin Souter, we're taking a look at Jonathan Demme, whose interest in fascinating people, music, and minutiae was evident from his early work for Roger Corman through his final concert film. It's a wide-ranging discussion about the vast scope of his work, fun details in his films, recurring concerns, and his varying levels of success in the Hollywood system. (And our recording is infused with the music of his movie subjects: Neil Young, and The Talking Heads). Worst of all: Matthew Modine. (9:03) His early Corman films: "Caged Heat", "Crazy Mama", "Fighting Mad" ("Crime in the City") (25:34) "Handle With Care / Citizen's Band" ("Love for Sale") (30:28) "The Last Embrace" ("Down by the River") (35:56) "Melvin and Howard", "Swing Shift" ("Once in a Lifetime") (55:42) "Stop Making Sense" ("Hey Hey My My") (1:15:43) "Something Wild" ("Wild Wild Life") (1:43:49) "Swimming to Cambodia" ("Tell Me Why") (1:56:36) "Married to the Mob" ("Sax And Violins") (2:04:04) "The Silence of the Lambs" ("Psycho Killer") (2:32:51) "Philadelphia" ("Philadelphia") (2:44:27) "Beloved" ("Stay Up Late") (2:59:52) "The Truth About Charlie" ("Borrowed Tune") (3:05:36) "The Manchurian Candidate" ("Mideast Vacation") (3:10:32) His documentaries and Neil Young concert films ("Dream Operator") (3:24:02) "Rachel Getting Married" ("F*****g Up") (3:39:54) "Ricki and the Flash" ("And She Was") (3:42:47) "A Master Builder" and "Justin Timberlake and the Tennessee Kids" ("This Note's for You") This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The Director's Club concludes our look at the films of Terrence Malick, from an appropriately epic examination of "The Tree of Life" through the more improvisational and abstract efforts of his later movies. Thanks to the help of Peter Richards from the Chicago Film Discussion Group, we aim to get a fuller look at what's amazing, infuriating, and fascinatingly unique about this later part of his movie career! 0:00 "The Tree Of Life" (The "most" Malick?, Chastain's emotional foundation, "Funeral Canticle" byJohn Tavener and Mother Thekla, the Global Fast Forward, "Lacrimosa 2" by Zbigniew Preisner, Jurrasic Mercy, Navigating Grace and Nature, Pitt's best performance, "Snippets of Memory", "Siciliana Da Antiche Danze Ed Arie Suite III" by Ottorino Respighi, "MVlast Moldau (Vltava)" byBed.ich Smetana, some staggering images, holding onto the light, "The Grande Messe des morts, Op. 5" by Hector Berlioz) 42:49 "To The Wonder" (the C.S.I. Moment, "Everybody Loves Ben", Affleck's "range" of motion, a switch suggestion, big place that can't get filled, the priest's purpose, the main theme by Hanan Townshend) 1:04:02"Knight of Cups" (parables and pilgrims, Malick's Eyes Shut?, a fetching film, the Pan Brothers, Blanchett and Portman, card from the bottom of the Tarot, "soul fluid", the symbolic shore) 1:31:31 "Voyage of Time" ("Mother" by Tori Amos, "Mother" by Pink Floyd, "Mother" by Danzig) 1:43:08 "Song to Song" ("Birdland" by the Patti Smith Group; the archetype understory; Portman's lesson; Malick and rock music; true feeling; for "Shame", Fassbender....) 2:07:36 Outro (What's next for Malick?, Crazy Dream Collaboration, Favorite Malick shots) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The Director's Club puts our heads together with Peter Richards from the Chicago Film Discussion Group to have an epic discussion about the movies of Terrence Malick. With three different perspectives, there's a comprehensive and fair look at his movies, here in part 1 dealing with "Badlands" through "A New World". Whether you adore Malick's films, hate them, or just want to learn more, you'll find something interesting about them through our exploration of his work! 13:37 "Badlands" (Outlaw Road Trip, Kit for President, A Worthy Juxtaposition?, Morality or Boredom?, Irony and Humor from Malick, Fort Innocence, Gleaning for Transcendance, The Things They Carried) 47:27 "Days of Heaven" (Feeling of Historical Memory, Main Theme by Ennio Morricone, Bad Leg of the Romantic Triangle, pure cinema, Welcome Back Casting, the Magic Hour, a Fair Fable?, Narration From Out of Time) 1:17:29 Terrence Malick's Lost and Early Work ("Lanton Mills", "Q", "The Desert Rose", "Sansho the Bailiff") 1:22:07 "The Thin Red Line" (Narration for Adults?, Faith Helps and Hurts, Native Fawning?, Guadacanal To The Stars, Din of War Ecstacy, "Silence" by Hans Zimmer, Chaplin Confusion, Burned Brody, The Three Phases of Malick) 2:06:16 "A New World" (Colin Farrell Conflict, Fair Looks at Naturals and Colonists, Kilcher's Brilliant Depiction of Growth across Age and Culture, Whose New World Is It Anyway?, What's In A Name, "Vorspiel" from Richard Wagner) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

(19:56) "Real Life" (41:34) "Modern Romance" (1:04:22) "Lost in America" (1:20:58) "Defending Your Life" (1:43:10) "Mother" (1:52:43) "The Muse" (Muse, "Map of the Problematique") (2:04:36) "Looking For Comedy In The Muslim World" (2:12:55) Outro: Brooks' legacy and our favorite Albert Brooks movie line This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Cross-posted from Voices & Visions. Jim here with a special bonus interview episode especially since the following interview is with a great director! My podcast Voices and Visions has talked with a variety of guests, and this one has a special place in my heart so I wanted to share it with the podcast I helped to create. Last year, I had the immense pleasure of talking with one of my favorite character actors and directors, Keith Gordon. You know him from his work with directors like DePalma, Carpenter, and films such as BACK TO SCHOOL among many others. He's also an accomplished filmmaker in his own right, having made several terrific features many of which were covered the first time we spoke, which can be listened to here: http://www.directorsclubpodcast.com/blog/keithgordon This time around, we talked about his last feature, THE SINGING DETECTIVE, working on shows such as FARGO & BETTER CALL SAUL, having the pleasure of directing an actress like Carrie Coon, as well as a conversation about directors he considers to be underrated. One of the highlights of this episode is an in-depth look at how television is changing the way directors like himself find work, which has been both good and bad. I can't thank Keith enough for joining me again, and can't wait to nerd out some more in the future about the past, the present and the future of his incredible career - Jim Visit & Subscribe To The Podcast: http://voicesvisions.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

16:43 THE TRUE STORY OF ESKIMO NELL ("Arctic World", Midnight Oil) 33:27 PATRICK ("Stayin' Alive", The Bee Gees) 58:10 ROAD GAMES ("Highway to Hell", AC/DC) 1:24:21 PSYCHO II ("Devil Inside", INXS) 1:44:29 CLOAK AND DAGGER ("Papa Won't Leave You, Henry", Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds) 1:58:00 LINK ("Something So Strong", Crowded House) 2:15:27 FX2 ("Magic",Olivia Newton John) 2:27:35 VISITORS ("The Endless Sea", The Church) 2:40:13 Summary, Favorite Australian films to check out next ("Mind Mischief" - Tame Impala) Visit Matt Gamble's Website: http://wherethelongtailends.com/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

3:39 (Don Caballero, "Slice Where You Live Like Pie") "Pi" 36:53 (Clint Mansell, "Lux Aeterna") "Requiem for a Dream" 1:03:33 (The Police, "Spirits in the Material World") "The Fountain" 1:38:27 (Quiet Riot, "Metal Health (Bang Your Head)") "The Wrestler" 2:05:56 (Laura Carbone, "Swans") "Black Swan" 2:27:18 (The Pogues, "Thousands are Sailing") "Noah" 3:04:23 (R.E.M., "Losing My Religion") Outro / 3 Films also with alternate takes on religion This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

15:12 Zulawski's short films for TV: "The Story of Triumphant Love" and "Pavoncello" 19:14 "The Third Part of the Night" 28:34 (The Swans, "The Apostate") "The Devil" 49:12 (The Who, "Love Reign O'er Me") "The Most Important Thing: Love" 1:04:37 (Elvis Costello, "Possesion") "Possession" 1:28:22 (Michael Sambello, "Maniac") "La Femme Publique" 1:43:20 (Shooby Taylor, "Stout Hearted Man") "L'Amour Braque" 1:53:41 (Henryk Gorecki, Symphony 2 "Copernican") "On the Silver Globe" 2:11:19 (Paul McCartney, "Beautiful Night") "My Nights are More Beautiful Than Your Days", "Boris Gudenov", "La Note Bleue", "Szamanka" 2:27:52 (Richard and Linda Thompson, "Walking on a Wire") "Fidelity" 2:35:20 (Kosmos, "Psycho") "Cosmos" 2:43:10 Wrap Up / "The Zulawskian Film" Question To give Zulawski's work a further look, you can check out these resources: Daughters Of Darkness Podcast - Episodes 4-7 tackle Zulawski's filmography http://diaboliquemagazine.com/category/podcasts/daughters-of-darkness-podcast Samm Deighan's Andrzej Zulawski Retrospective at Diabolique Magazine http://diaboliquemagazine.com/category/columns/an-andrzej-zulawski-retrospective This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Brad and Al talk about Pre-Leone history of the Westers: 3:13 "The Colossus Of Rhodes" 12:16 "Fistful of Dollars" 16:14 * Theme from... "For A Few Dollars More" 33:47 * Theme from... * "The Musical Pocket Watch" "The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly" 49:38 * Theme from... * "The Story of a Soldier" * "The Ecstacy of Gold" * "The Trio" "Once Upon a Time in the West" 1:34:40 * Theme from.... (Jill's Entrance) * "Man With The Harmonica" * "Farewell to Cheyenne" (played at our outro) "Duck, You Sucker!" 2:21:33 * Theme from... "Once Upon a Time in America" 2:42:20 * "Amapola" Summary: "Is Sergio Leone 'The Guy'?" 3:18:48 * Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass playing "Tijuana Taxi" This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

PART TWO OF TWO: Nothing's gonna stop us now! Ladies and gentlemen, let's go back thirty years to when three film critics fell in love with going to the movies. The mid-80s informed a lot of my taste, and much like previous years' retrospectives, it's always a blast to go back and see what holds up and what we each consider to be personal favorites from a particular year. RogerEbert.com's very own Erik Childress and Collin Souter return for what is officially a yearly tradition that started thanks to original podcast creator Jim Laczkowski (that's me). We started with 1985 two years ago, and plan to do this all the way up until 1999 as a bonus excursion for reflection, nostalgia, and to celebrate those 80s and 90s kids that adored film as much as we did. After a brief intro for this episode, we go through the entire year chronologically covering titles that range from THE STEPFATHER to SPACEBALLS and everything in between (LA BAMBA, BROADCAST NEWS, WALL STREET, THE GATE and so much more). Yes, some big titles come up, but have no fear, we talk OVER THE TOP and ISHTAR too. Some debates come up mainly revolving around horror films, but for the most part, it's a friendly 4-hour conversation between 3 die-hard movie fans that enjoy sharing memories, insights, and reviews. At the end of this, we list our favorite films of 1987. We hope you enjoy each the conversation, and yes, consider this our major malfunction! Eventually, we snapped out of it. This is Part Two. Part One Of The Year In Review Jim's 20 Favorites http://nowplayingnetwork.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

The 1987 List Of Movies! PART ONE (OF TWO): You can follow the list from 1987 that we cover linked above. Nothing's gonna stop us now! Ladies and gentlemen, let's go back thirty years to when three film critics fell in love with going to the movies. The mid-80s informed a lot of my taste, and much like previous years' retrospectives, it's always a blast to go back and see what holds up and what we each consider to be personal favorites from a particular year. RogerEbert.com's very own Erik Childress and Collin Souter return for what is officially a yearly tradition that started thanks to original podcast creator Jim Laczkowski (that's me). We started with 1985 two years ago, and plan to do this all the way up until 1999 as a bonus excursion for reflection, nostalgia, and to celebrate those 80s and 90s kids that adored film as much as we did. We go through the entire year chronologically covering titles that range from THE PRINCESS BRIDE to SPACEBALLS and everything in between (LA BAMBA, BROADCAST NEWS, WALL STREET, THE GATE and so much more). Yes, some big titles come up, but have no fear, we talk OVER THE TOP and ISHTAR too. Some debates come up mainly revolving around horror films, but for the most part, it's a friendly 4-hour conversation between 3 die-hard movie fans that enjoy sharing memories, insights, and reviews. At the end of Part Two, we list our favorite films of 1987. We hope you enjoy each the conversation, and yes, consider this our major malfunction! Eventually, we snapped out of it. This is Part One so expect Part Two the following day. http://directorsclubpodcast.com http://nowplayingnetwork.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

04:07 "Comedy Tonight" : Brad and Al Comedies 20:02 "Bicycle Race" by Queen : "Jour La Fete" 35:40 "Holiday" by Weezer: "M Hulot's Holidy" 57:15 "Man from U.N.C.L.E.": "Mon Oncle" 1:09:50 "Playtime" 1:53:16 "Crosstown Traffic" Hendrix: "Traffic" 2:06:43 "Parade" 2:19:11 "Forza Batista" 2:22:40 Overview of Tati's Life and Work 2:30:00 Some Tati-esque recommendations 2:34:44 3 Favorite Gags from Tati films, Outro This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

It is my esteemed pleasure and honor to introduce the all-new Director's Club! This is the first official episode hosted by your two new hosts. The great Brad and Al have been handed the keys to the kingdom and inherited a chocolate factory. Please give them your support, kind words, and feedback for their stay here on the podcast. It will continue to be bi-weekly, sometimes featuring guests, sometimes not. The format is very similar so don't fret. For their first episode as hosts, Brad and Al have recruited a familiar voice from past episodes both here and over at RowThree.com. The Cinecast's very own Andrew James joins Brad & Al to talk about the entire career of Mr. Danny Boyle. They start at SHALLOW GRAVE and go all the way to STEVE JOBS, and everything in-between. I pop on the mic at one point to give my two cents on SUNSHINE as well, and the crew discuss the merits of TRAINSPOTTING and its upcoming sequel. So kick back and relax, and welcome to Director's Club hosted by two truly terrific and intelligent hosts that I hope you enjoy and respect just much as you did with the original hosts. Looking forward to being a guest on a future episode very soon - Jim 00:00 - 08:41 - Introduction 08:42 - 50:47 - SHALLOW GRAVE, TRAINSPOTTING, LIFE LESS ORDINARY 50:48 - 01:44:56 - THE BEACH, 28 DAYS LATER, MILLIONS 01:44:57 - 02:50:40 - SUNSHINE, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, 127 HOURS 02:50:41 - 03:41:16 - THE OLYMPICS OPENING, TRANCE, STEVE JOBS 03:41:17 - 03:44:33 - Outro As always, please send Brad & Al your comments, questions and general feedback to: [email protected] Visit The Website: http://directorsclubpodcast.com Visit The Network: http://nowplayingnetwork.net Visit Jim's New Podcast / Blog: http://voicesvisions.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

This is the end! (Don't worry, I didn't play The Doors in this episode). Well, no of course it isn't actually the end. But this is the last episode where I officially host. Fear not, there will be bonus episodes and I’ll be guesting from time to time throughout the year. Give all your support to Al & Brad when they begin in three weeks on the Danny Boyle episode. Of course, this is the year-end spectacular for 2016 and it should come as no surprise that it’s 4 hours long. I enlisted the help of two great friends of mine to contribute their thoughts on the year that was, as well as sharing their favorite films of 2016. Supporting Characters’ very own Bill Ackerman as well as Film Jive co-host Zach Betonte expand with me in great detail about memorable moments in film from the year that was! We also continue the tradition of sub-categories, listener & past guest contributions, 2016 favorites from the fans, and so much more! Obviously, it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t begin with an introduction and a farewell. I’ll miss hosting, but I will continue to be behind-the-scenes every step of the way. It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege hosting this show, and you can always find me on either the Now Playing Network or at Voices & Visions - Jim 00:00 - 09:18 - Introduction / Farewell 09:19 - 36:42 - Overall Thoughts On 2016 36:43 - 01:45:50 - Sub-Categories (Best Actress, etc.) 01:45:51 - 01:52:10 - Regina & Andrew’s Lists! 01:52:11 - 02:26:16 - Numbers #25 - #11 02:26:17 - 02:29:14 - More Listener Lists! 02:29:15 - 03:57:37 - Our Top Ten Favorite Films Of 2016 03:57:38 - 04:03:45 - Final Round Of Listener Lists 04:03:46 - 04:09:30 - Outro / Final Parody Song For our complete lists, photos and show notes go to: http://www.directorsclubpodcast.com/blog/favorites2016 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Merry New Year and Happy Christmas to all. What I have prepared for you is a gift that I will call the "Royal Sampler Volume One." It contains short clips from all the podcasts featured at The Now Playing Network, as well as extended highlights from Supporting Characters & Director's Club from over the years. You also get a brief glimpse into some of my interviewing skills with various guests over the years. There's also some kind of unusual collage towards the end. This is a special episode, highlighting the talented folks of NPN for the first half, and then highlighting some of the better moments from the recent wave of Director's Club episodes. The next episode will likely be released on January 9th, which will be The Best of 2016 featuring Bill Ackerman and Zach Betonte. This means you have until January 7th to get your top ten lists in so I can read some during our recording! [email protected] Thank you again for listening to this pinata of audio treats that will hopefully get you through your commute home for Christmas. See you next year and stay tuned for some exciting changes to come 00:00 – 07:24 – Introduction 07:25 – 12:48 – Vinyl Emergency Excerpt 12:49 – 19:50 – Fresh Perspective Excerpt 19:51 – 26:27 - Movie Madness Excerpt 26:28 – 33:23 - Tracks of The Damned Excerpt 33:24 – 01:44:00 - Supporting Characters Highlight Reel 01:44:01 – 01:54:50 - Director’s Club Highlight Reel Part One 01:54:51 – 02:16:53 - Interview Excerpts with Stephen Tobolowsky, Keith Gordon, Allan Moyle, John McNaughton, Rachel Grimes, Karrie Hopper 02:16:54 – 02:32:21 - Director’s Club Recent Guest Highlights 02:32:22 – 02:50:32 - ??? Check out the podcasts: http://nowplayingnetwork.net Check out my new podcast: http://voicesvisions.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Voices and Visions, formerly Pop Culture Club. Confused? Well, there’s an introduction to help assist you. As you may or may not know, PCC is now V&V, and this is the first official episode under the new name. After my 8-minute monologue at the top, I am pleased to present another wonderful singer/songwriter by the name of Kay Hanley. If you’ve heard of the band Letters to Cleo, she is the incredibly energetic frontwoman and has always been a true blue rock star in my eyes. For movie fans, you’ll also know her as the singing voice of Josie in the hysterical satire JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS with Rachael Lee Cook, Parker Posey, and Alan Cumming. In addition, Kay is a songwriter for hire and has recently released a new EP with Letters to Cleo. I had the pleasure of meeting with her at the VIP show in Chicago and a couple months later, we reconnected over the phone to have a delightful conversation about her career, loss, inspiration, working in film, and what we can potentially expect from Letters to Cleo in the future. I truly hope you enjoy this episode since this is precisely the kind of show I will be offering as of 2017 on what I hope to be a weekly basis. Thank you so much to Nicole Poulos, Michael Creamer, and of course, my great guest Kay Hanley! My conversation with her begins right around the 8 minute mark. Buy the new Letters to Cleo EP: http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/letterstocleo Official Letters To Cleo Website: http://www.letterstocleo.net/ Follow Letters to Cleo on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letterstocleomusic/ My new website: http://voicesvisions.net Subscribe to the show: V&V on ITunes Follow Me On Twitter: https://twitter.com/nowplayingjim Check out the Now Playing Network: http://nowplayingnetwork.net Coming Soon: A double dose of independent filmmakers are featured as well as an upcoming compilation of interview highlights from a number of shows on the network! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe

Happy Thanksgiving to all. And I want to say thank you for all the very kind words and messages in regards to my introduction from the last episode in which I announced the show will be hosted by two different voices next year. For this episode, it is my pleasure to welcome back two special guests from the past that have meant a great deal to me and for their friendship, I am grateful. The first is the co-host of RowThree.com’s Cinecast, and has been a frequent contributor to the show here going all the way back to his first appearance on the Michael Winterbottom episode, the loquacious and astute Kurt Halfyard. The other is a film graduate and she has joined me twice this year to talk about Hitchcock and Varda, the intelligent and good-natured Kate Blair. We cover the surprising winner of the listener’s poll, UK’s very own Jonathan Glazer who has made three films that are all incredibly unique as well as several advertisements and memorable music videos. First up we cover Glazer’s take on the gangster heist noir SEXY BEAST, in which we all do our best impersonations of Ben Kingsley and his Oscar-nominated role as Don Logan. Secondly, we revisit a much-derided film upon its release, BIRTH, with a pitch-perfect Nicole Kidman as she grapples with the possibility that her dead husband has been reincarnated into the body of a ten-year-old boy. Finally, the one that anyone who has seen it then can’t wait to talk about it afterward, we dive into the pool of the profoundly original sci-fi alien thriller UNDER THE SKIN. Later in the episode, we briefly talk about 2016 recommendations as well as the plans I have for the rest of the year. There may be a bonus episode or two, but other than that, I’m taking most of December off to focus on a number of projects including the revision of my interview podcast and more. Stay subscribed and Happy Holidays to all! 00:00 – 07:03 – Introduction 07:04 – 08:57 – Director Song 08:58 – 26:48 – General Overview, First Experiences 26:49 – 01:02:30 – Music Videos, Sexy Beast 01:02:31 – 01:58:28 – Birth 01:58:29 – 02:21:06 – Under The Skin 02:21:06 – 02:31:13 – Outro For the next episode, it may be a whole month until I return alongside friend Bill Ackerman as we talk for three hours about our favorite films of 2016. I’m going to be binge-watching as much as I can for the next month, getting ready to launch a revised version of Pop Culture Club, as well as spending time with friends and family because now more than ever, we need to remind one another that we care. Please visit Directorsclubpodcast.com, send me an email to [email protected]. I want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Follow Kate on Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/selective_kate/ Listen to Kurt on The Cinecast: http://www.rowthree.com/cinecast-archive/ Follow Jim on Letterboxd: http://letterboxd.com/instantjim/ Visit Jim's Network For Many Great Shows: http://nowplayingnetwork.net This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe