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Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi

Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi

639 episodes — Page 5 of 13

S6 Ep 19“Rolling the Future – Brennan Lee Mulligan on Dimension 20

Guest: Brennan Lee Mulligan – Game Master, Writer, Performer, and Co-Creator of Dimension 20. Legendary Game Master Brennan Lee Mulligan joined me us to discuss the creation of his original online board game—a genre-bending experiment that blends classic tabletop mechanics with digital storytelling flair. Known for his work on Dimension 20, Brennan dives deep into the philosophy of game design, the emotional architecture of roleplay, and the collaborative magic that fuels his crew’s RPG adventures. Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Sep 12, 202529 min

S6 Ep 18Classic BMan - Batman The Animated Series

This limited podcast series starts off with one of the driving forces of this classic series in Bruce W. Timm from the roundtables at NYCC. Some great insights into the creation of an animated classic. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Sep 11, 202511 min

S6 Ep 16Tom Jennings: Famous UFO Incidents

Former Journalist and now producer of documentaries talks about two episodes of Shock Docs on UFO abductions on the Betty And Barney Hill and The Travis Walton cases Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Sep 10, 202531 min

S6 Ep 17Trek Tuesday Glenn Dakin: More Quibbles With Tribbles

Interview with the author of Star Trek Nerd Search Quibbles With Tribbles. We chat some Dr Who too. Start Your Free One Year Trial With Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Sep 9, 202528 min

S6 Ep 22🖖 “Star Trek: Echoes Across the Quadrants”

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A 59-Year Celebration Through Voices, Memories, and Missions My combined three-volume oral history and tribute, weaving together rare interviews, behind-the-scenes reflections, and heartfelt anecdotes from cast and crew across Star Trek: First Contact, Insurrection, and Nemesis. Supplemented by intimate conversations with actors from The Next Generation, Voyager, Deep Space Nine, Enterprise, and even a special Star Trek literary event. Featuring 🎙️ Roundtable Revelations: Press junket gems from the TNG movie era 📞 Personal Frequencies: Phone, Zoom, and convention interviews with legacy actors A blend of nostalgia and discovery—part memoir, part documentary, part celebration. Ideal for fans who want to hear oral memories

Sep 8, 202558 min

S6 Ep 13Rewind: “Proxima Bound” with Jonathan Glassner & Dean Devlin

A hundred years from now, humanity reaches for the stars—and pays the price for hope. In this episode of Rewind, showrunners Jonathan Glassner (Stargate SG-1) and Dean Devlin (The Ark, Independence Day) take us behind the scenes of their latest sci-fi survival saga. The story follows a ship of colonists en route to Proxima Centauri B, Earth’s nearest habitable neighbor. But when a catastrophic systems failure kills the command crew and most of the technical staff, the mission becomes a desperate fight for survival. 🛸 What happens when the chain of command is broken—and the only way forward is together? Glassner and Devlin unpack the emotional and logistical chaos that unfolds when scientists, civilians, and misfits must overcome clashing personalities, buried secrets, and dwindling resources to reach their destination. It’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and the fragile hope that binds us across the stars. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus today

Sep 8, 202517 min

S6 Ep 15Byte Subspace Rhapsody

Choreographer for the Subspace Rhapsody episode Roberto Campenella talks putting the dance sequences together and gives us a lesson in the simplest being the hardest. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Sep 6, 20257 min

S6 Ep 14The Future Is Thinking: AI in Film, Fiction, and Reality”

In this special edition of Trends, we dive deep into the evolving world of artificial intelligence—its promises, its pitfalls, and its place in our collective imagination. From speculative fiction to real-world innovation, this episode brings together a dynamic mix of voices shaping how we think about AI. 🔮 Featured Guests: Grey Scott, futurist and techno-philosopher, explores the ethical and emotional dimensions of AI’s future. Tommy Pallotta (A Scanner Darkly, Waking Life) and Max Pozdorovkin (The Truth About Killer Robots) reflect on AI’s role in storytelling and documentary filmmaking. Zack Strauss, screenwriter and director, shares insights on crafting AI-driven narratives that challenge and provoke. Brent Spiner and Robert Picardo, beloved for their iconic portrayals of artificial beings in Star Trek, offer personal reflections on how fiction has shaped public perception of AI. Chris Longo, editorial director at Den of Geek, weighs in on the cultural moment AI is having—from Hollywood to headlines. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Now

Sep 5, 202533 min

S6 Ep 12Explore Headlines on Frankenstein, DC Vs Marvel, and Dinos, Lots Of Dinos

News on New Frankenstein movie at Venice Film Festival. DC Vs Marvel comparison from Frank Grillo, Dinos in Jurassic World video game, plus a demand from Stephen King in The Long Walk. Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Sep 4, 20254 min

S6 Ep 11Rewind: Snowpiercer Season Three

Rewind features my interview with Mickey Sumner, Iddo Goldberg, and Rowan Blanchard. It’s a thoughtful conversation that dives into character psychology, the show’s sociopolitical allegories, and the actors’ collaborative dynamics on set. Rowan Blanchard & Mickey Sumner Interview: explores how Alexandra Cavill and Bess Till navigate grief, loyalty, and moral ambiguity. Iddo Goldberg Interview: offers a look into Bennett Knox’s role in Layton’s pirate train mission. Bonus Comments: Timothy V Murphy Start Your Free trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Sep 3, 202514 min

S6 Ep 10🖖 Trek Tuesday: Vaughn Armstrong — A Man of Many Faces and Strings

This week on Trek Tuesday, we beam into convention territory with the legendary Vaughn Armstrong, whose theatrical roots brought unforgettable depth to the Star Trek universe. With a staggering 12 distinct characters across 27 episodes—including five on Voyager alone—Armstrong’s versatility is a masterclass in transformation. From Klingons to Cardassians, and most memorably as Admiral Forrest on Star Trek: Enterprise, his performances are etched into Trek lore. 🎭 Stage to Starfleet Vaughn shares how his classical theater background shaped his approach to each role, revealing the emotional and physical nuances behind the mask of alien prosthetics. Whether commanding a starship or navigating interstellar diplomacy, his characters always carried a pulse of humanity. 🎶 The Banjolele Chronicles Beyond the screen, Vaughn’s musical talents shine through his banjolele—a ukulele played in banjo style. He treats us to stories from his American roots repertoire, including Civil War-era songs and folk traditions that echo the soul of a different kind of frontier. 🎥 Sci-Fi Talk Plus Spotlight: The Conjuring — Last Rites Subscribers to Sci-Fi Talk Plus get exclusive access to Tony’s deep-dive coverage of The Conjuring: Last Rites. From sit-down interviews with the cast to a behind-the-curtain special featuring 43 clips and rare footage, it’s a hauntingly rich experience. Some podcast episodes even come with companion videos for a full-spectrum look at the film. 🔒 Plus Subscriber Perks Special Edition Uncut Podcasts Commercial-Free Listening The Mix 100 Audio Series curated by subscriber downloads Watch and listen on your favorite player—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any RSS-compatible app Whether you're here for Trek nostalgia or supernatural chills, this episode bridges the best of both worlds. Vaughn Armstrong reminds us that behind every great character is a great storyteller—and sometimes, a great banjolele.

Sep 2, 202515 min

S6 Ep 9“Becoming Murtagh & Jocasta: Rory Alexander and Sadhbh Malin

In this roundtable conversation, actors Rory Alexander and Sadhbh Malin join us to explore their transformative roles as young Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser and Jocasta Cameron in Outlander: Blood of My Blood. As the prequel breathes new life into beloved characters, Rory and Sadhbh share how they navigated the emotional terrain of portraying younger versions of figures already etched into fans’ hearts. From the subtle tension of unspoken affection to the weight of inherited grief, they unpack the complexity of Murtagh and Jocasta’s evolving relationship—one shaped by longing, loyalty, and the shadow of Ellen MacKenzie. We dive into the challenges of playing “the right emotions” opposite each other, especially when the characters’ futures are already known to the audience. Costume as Character: Both actors discuss how their period costumes helped shape posture, presence, and emotional authenticity Uncomfortable Scenes: Behind-the-scenes stories of filming emotionally raw or physically demanding moments, and how trust between castmates made all the difference Moments of Joy: Rory and Sadhbh share their favorite “pleasant scenes”—from quiet walks on set to spontaneous laughter during rehearsals Start Your Free Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Sep 1, 202523 min

S6 Ep 8Finding Ryan Hardy With Kevin Bacon

In this special retrospective episode, we revisit three years of live conversations with Kevin Bacon at New York Comic Con, tracing the emotional and psychological evolution of FBI agent Ryan Hardy from The Following. From the show's explosive debut to its final season, Bacon reflects on Hardy’s unraveling psyche, his battle with addiction, and the twisted intimacy between hunter and hunted. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today.

Aug 29, 202523 min

S6 Ep 6Explore Weekly: Frankenstein, Demon Hunters & DC Crossovers

This week on Explore Weekly, we dive into a genre-rich roundup of the biggest stories in entertainment—from supernatural satire to superhero synergy. Michael Sheen teases the ineffable return of Good Omens, Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein prepares to electrify Venice, and Stephen King’s The Institute gets a chilling season two renewal. Plus, we unpack the cultural phenomenon of KPop Demon Hunters, explore the viral screen test that crowned David Corenswet as Superman, and decode the latest DC Studios crossover buzz between Batman and the Man of Steel. We also spotlight the evolution of Peacemaker in season two, with fresh Easter eggs and canon shifts, and offer a heartfelt review of Upload season four—Prime Video’s digital afterlife comedy that ends with a surprisingly emotional punch. Start Your Free One Year Trial on Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Aug 28, 20258 min

S6 Ep 10Martians, Manta Rays & Mid-Century Mayhem: Revisiting George Pal’s War of the Worlds

This week, we fire up the retroscope and revisit one of sci-fi cinema’s most iconic invasions: George Pal’s War of the Worlds (1953). From its long and winding road to production to the unforgettable cobra-headed Martian war machines, we explore how this Cold War-era classic redefined alien terror for the big screen. You’ll hear how producer George Pal—Hollywood’s original sci-fi visionary—brought H.G. Wells’ Victorian apocalypse into postwar Southern California, swapping tripods for manta rays and existential dread for atomic-age spectacle. We break down the casting of Gene Barry as Dr. Clayton Forrester, surrounded by a rich ensemble of veteran character actors, and how their grounded performances helped sell the surreal. We also dive into the film’s bold departures from the novel: The shift in setting and tone The redesign of the Martians and their technology And of course, we spotlight the unforgettable war machine design by art director Albert Nozaki—those sleek, levitating death-dealers with cobra-like necks and heat rays that helped the film win an Oscar for Best Visual Effects. Highlights Include: 🧪 Gene Barry’s casting and the ensemble’s quiet gravitas 📖 Key differences from H.G. Wells’ novel 🛸 The manta ray war machines: design, and legacy 🏆 The film’s influence on Spielberg, sci-fi tropes, and Independence Day Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 27, 20258 min

S6 Ep 5🖖 Trek Tuesday: “What Is Starfleet?” with Mynor Luken

This week on Trek Tuesday, we dive into one of the most provocative episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3—“What Is Starfleet?”—with special guest Mynor Luken, who plays Beto Ortegas, the civilian documentarian aboard the Enterprise. 🎥 In a rare format shift, the episode unfolds through Beto’s lens as he interrogates the ideals of Starfleet and the Federation itself. Is Starfleet a force for peace—or a tool of imperialism? Mynor joins us to unpack the emotional, ethical, and cinematic layers behind this bold narrative experiment. 🔍 Episode Highlights Beto & Uhura: Trust, Tension, and Truth Mynor reflects on the charged dynamic between Beto and Ensign Nyota Uhura (Celia Rose Gooding), We explore how their relationship evolves from flirtation to confrontation—and ultimately, mutual understanding. Sibling Conflict: Beto & Lt. Erica Ortegas In one of the episode’s most personal scenes, Beto confronts his sister Erica (Melissa Navia) about her loyalty to Starfleet and the trauma she endured in the Gorn conflict. Mynor shares how this scene was shaped by real-life sibling dynamics and the tension between duty and family. The Silent Exchange with Captain Pike Mynor recounts a powerful, wordless moment between Beto and Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount)—a glance, a breath, a shared weight. No dialogue, just raw emotion. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Aug 26, 202512 min

S6 Ep 3Vintage Episode: “Monsters in the Margins: Gareth Edwards on DIY Filmmaking and Creature Creation”

Before Godzilla, before Rogue One, Gareth Edwards was a one-man army with a camera, a laptop, and a dream. In this throwback episode of Byte, we revisit our early conversation with Edwards just after the release of his breakout indie sci-fi film, Monsters (2010)—a haunting, low-budget marvel that redefined what guerrilla filmmaking could achieve. 🎥 The Micro-Crew Miracle With just two lead actors, a sound recordist, and a handful of gear, Edwards shot Monsters across five countries in three weeks. He recounts the thrill and chaos of filming without permits, improvising scenes with locals, and shaping a story from raw, real-world textures. 👾 Designing the Monsters Hear how Edwards built the film’s towering, bioluminescent creatures using off-the-shelf software and sheer imagination. He discusses the emotional logic behind their design—why they’re more gentle giants than alien invaders—and how he wanted audiences to feel awe, not just fear. 🌍 Sci-Fi with Soul Edwards talks about his desire to make a monster movie that felt intimate and human. He breaks down how Monsters is really a love story wrapped in a sci-fi road trip, and why the infected zone is less about aliens and more about borders, trauma, and connection. 🎧 This episode is a time capsule of indie ingenuity—a portrait of a filmmaker on the cusp of global recognition, still chasing the magic of storytelling with nothing but grit and a laptop. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 25, 202517 min

S6 Ep 4Byte Donald Mowat Teases Tron Ares

The Make-Up Designer for Tron Ares teased me about the movie during a break from filming last year. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today.

Aug 24, 20255 min

S6 Ep 2Time Capsule 413: A journey through memory, meaning, and the future

Episode 413 brings together creators and performers who challenge what it means to be human, to belong, and to imagine beyond the stars. 🔦 Featured Interviews: Ross Marquand on Descendent The actor opens up about the emotional toll and transformative process behind his role in Descendent, a film that blurs the line between trauma and transcendence. Director Peter Ciella on Descendent Ciella shares why he chose alien abduction as the lens for exploring identity and loss, and how the film reclaims the genre for a new generation. 🎧 Rewind Segment: David Dastmalchian & Noma Dumezweni A powerful revisit to their reflections on humanity, empathy, and storytelling as resistance. Their insights remain as urgent and resonant as ever. Valerie Weiss on Star Trek: Strange New Worlds The director of “The Sehlat Who Ate Its Tail” reveals how she drew inspiration from the original series to craft an episode that’s both whimsical and deeply philosophical. Mynor Luken on We Are Starfleet In this documentary-style episode, Luken explores the ethos of Starfleet through intimate scenes with the cast. He reflects on legacy, leadership, and unity. Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 22, 202519 min

Ep 117Explore Weekly; Wizards, Wastelands & Emmy-Worthy Aliens

This week on Explore Weekly, we dive deep into the genre multiverse with the biggest headlines from sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and comics. From Middle-earth to the Mojave Wasteland, Emmy buzz to alien invasions—here’s what’s lighting up the internet: 🏆 2025 Hugo Awards: We break down some the winners 🧙‍♂️ Gandalf & Frodo Return: First look at Hunt for Gollum, the surprise Tolkien adaptation bringing back iconic characters. ☢️ Fallout Season Two: New factions, deeper lore, and a wasteland even more brutal—what showrunner Geneva Robertson-Dworet revealed this week. 🐧 The Penguin’s Emmy Sweep: Lauren LeFranc talks building Gotham’s criminal underworld—and reaction how the series snagged 24 Emmy nominations. 🌌 Dune: Prophecy: Behind the scenes with the VFX team crafting a key scene in the season finale. 🧬 Vought Rising: The Boys’ latest spinoff promises biotech horror, corporate satire, and a new generation of supes. 🪄 New Harry Potter Star Speaks: The actor stepping into the iconic robes opens up about legacy, pressure, and magical reinvention. 🎥 Fantastic Fest 2025 Line-Up: A look at some of the must-see films shaking up Austin. 🧠 Sci-Fi & the Emmys: Why genre storytelling is finally resonating with voters 👽 The Eternauts Explained: We decode the alien mythology behind Netflix’s Argentine sci-fi hit. 🌍 Alien Earth’s True Villains: A closer look at the human cost of survival in this haunting post-contact thriller. 🧠 Listener Takeaway Genre isn’t just escapism—it’s a lens on power, identity, and transformation. This episode celebrates the creators pushing boundaries and the fans keeping the conversation alive. Start Your Free One Year Free Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 21, 202510 min

S6 Ep 1Rewind: Murderbot's Noma Dumezweni & David Dastmalchian: Compassion, Code, and Colonies

In this episode, we dive into the layered performances behind Murderbot, the sci-fi adaptation that’s redefining what it means to be human, augmented, and emotionally resilient. Joining us are Noma Dumezweni, who brings a quiet ferocity to Dr. Mensah, and David Dastmalchian, whose portrayal of Gurathin pulses with tension between cybernetic precision and raw humanity. We explore how Noma crafts Mensah’s leadership—equal parts empathy and steel—and how David finds the soul within Gurathin’s augmented shell. The conversation also touches on the almost utopian, hippie-like existence of the colonists. Plus, David reflects on his chilling role in Late Night With The Devil, and how playing Gurathin offered a very different kind of psychological terrain. Mensah’s Moral Compass: Noma shares how she approached the character’s deep compassion without compromising her authority, revealing the emotional intelligence behind Mensah’s decisions. Gurathin’s Duality: David discusses the tension between Gurathin’s cybernetic enhancements and his very human skepticism—especially toward Murderbot—and how that conflict shaped his performance. From Devil to Data: David reflects on Late Night With The Devil, the psychological toll of playing a character unraveling on live TV, and how Gurathin’s internal battles offered a quieter, more introspective challenge. Start Your Free One Year Trial for Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 20, 20254 min

S5 Ep 23Trek Tuesday: Valerie Weiss on Directing Star Trek and Storytelling

This week on Trek Tuesday, we’re joined by one of the most intellectually and artistically gifted directors in the Star Trek universe—Valerie Weiss. With a PhD from Harvard Medical School in biological chemistry and a passion for cinematic storytelling, Valerie brings a rare fusion of scientific insight and emotional depth to her work behind the camera. 🌌 Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Precision in “Ad Astra Per Aspera” She breaks down her meticulous approach to camera angles and blocking in the courtroom scenes, using visual language to heighten tension and underscore themes of justice and identity. “The Sehlat Who Ate Its Tail” – A metaphysical, emotionally resonant tale that explores grief, memory, and the boundaries of Vulcan logic. Her Directing Philosophy Valerie discusses how she blends intuition with preparation—balancing emotional truth with technical execution to serve the story and characters. Staging Action with Purpose From phaser fights to starship maneuvers, she reveals how she choreographs action sequences to reflect character stakes and narrative rhythm, never just spectacle for spectacle’s sake. Character-Driven Direction At the heart of her process is character. Valerie explains how understanding a character’s emotional arc shapes every directorial choice—from lens selection to pacing to performance notes. Start Your Free Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Aug 19, 202513 min

S5 Ep 22UFOs, Trauma, and Truth: Peter Cilella on His Debut Feature Descendent

In this episode, I chat with writer and director Peter Cilella to explore his haunting and intimate debut feature, Descendent—a fresh and emotionally charged take on the UFO abduction narrative. The film follows Sean Bruner (played by Ross Marquand) and his wife Andrea (Sarah Bulger) as they prepare for the arrival of their first child. But when Sean blacks out after witnessing a mysterious light during a late-night security shift, he awakens aboard an alien craft—and reality begins to fracture. Peter shares how Descendent uses science fiction not just to thrill, but to probe the psychological toll of trauma and the resilience of love. We discuss: 🛸 The blurred line between memory and imagination 💔 How couples navigate the aftermath of extraordinary events 🎭 The grounded performances of Marquand and Tomko 🧠 Clues and visual motifs that challenge the viewer’s perception of reality 🎬 Peter’s journey from shorts to his first feature—and why this story had to be told now Whether you're a fan of cerebral sci-fi or intimate character studies, Descendent offers a layered experience that lingers long after the credits roll. 🔍 Watch closely. What’s real? What’s imagined? And what does it mean to truly survive? Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 18, 202515 min

Byte Scott Brick On Performing Dune Audio

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Scott doesn't read the books for audio, he performs then. We chat about pronouncing a key Dune house plus we hear a clip from McMillan audio that Scott performs. Subscribe To Sci-Fi Talk Plus Free For One Year Trial

Aug 17, 20258 min

S29 Ep 7Byte Matt Betts

Writer of the Steampunk themed, Odd Man Out talks about his love of the genre. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 16, 20254 min

S5 Ep 14Is Time Travel Possible? Insights with Dr. Amira Val Baker

Dr. Val Baker is a Scientific Research Associate at the Resonance Science Foundation. She earned an MSci in Astrophysics from University College London and a PhD in Astrophysics from Open University under Dr. Andrew Norton. Her research spans binaries, neutron stars, black holes, gamma-ray bursts, AGN and exoplanets. Forward Time Travel via Relativity Einstein’s special theory of relativity tells us that the faster you move, the more slowly you experience time relative to someone at rest. Precision experiments—like synchronizing atomic clocks on jets versus on the ground—confirm that high-speed travel causes measurable time dilation. Did The Avengers Get Time Travel Right in Endgame? The MCU’s Quantum Approach In Endgame, the Avengers use Pym Particles to shrink into the Quantum Realm and slip through time. This nods to real ideas about spacetime shortcuts—akin to wormholes—but the film glosses over the astronomical energy and stability challenges such a method would entail in actual physics. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today.

Aug 15, 202517 min

S5 Ep 21Sci-Fi Talk Weekly 8/14 — Clayface, Buffy, and Alien Earth

Welcome back to Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where we dive into the stories, creators, and cultural tremors shaping speculative fiction. This week’s Sci-Fi Talk Weekly is packed with genre-defining headlines, character-driven profiles, and a fresh ranking that might just spark a rewatch. 🔥 News Highlights Clayface Takes Shape: The Handmaid’s Tale star Max Minghella is reportedly in talks to direct Clayface, a long-rumored DC horror-thriller. Could this be the character’s breakout moment? Buffy Reboot Buzz: Casting updates emerge for the Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot. New faces, same stakes—will it honor the legacy or reinvent the myth? Alien Earth Premiere: The latest entry in the Alien universe lands with Alien Earth, promising grounded terror and ecological dread. Wednesday Returns: Season two of Wednesday is officially on the calendar. Expect more gothic flair, psychic mysteries, and Addams family drama. Eli Roth’s Horror Section Expands: Roth’s genre label acquires Dream Eater, a psychological horror project with surrealist leanings. 🎭 Spotlights Tramell Tillman (Severance): Variety profiles the breakout star behind Milchick’s eerie calm. Tillman reflects on control, performance, and the emotional toll of dystopia. Russell T Davies: Deadline dives deep into the Doctor Who showrunner’s vision for inclusive storytelling and genre reinvention. Davies remains one of sci-fi’s most daring architects. 🎮 Industry Pulse Video Game Pricing Debate: As AAA titles push toward $70 and beyond, we examine what this means for accessibility, indie devs, and the future of interactive storytelling. 🛸 This Week’s List Collider’s Alien Watchability Ranking: From Alien to Alien: Resurrection, Collider ranks the franchise by rewatch value. Agree or disagree, it’s a list that invites debate—and maybe a marathon. Start Your Free One Year Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 14, 202511 min

S5 Ep 20Rewind: Doctor Who’s 50th Anniversary at San Diego Comic-Con

Step into the TARDIS and journey back to the summer of 2013, when the energy at San Diego Comic-Con was electric with anticipation for Doctor Who’s 50th Anniversary. In this special episode of Rewind, we revisit rountable that brought actors and showrunners to celebrate half a century of time-traveling adventures. 🎉 Featured Guests: Matt Smith – The Eleventh Doctor, reflecting on his tenure and the legacy of the role Jenna Coleman – Companion Clara Oswald, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and fan moments Steven Moffat – Showrunner and head writer, discussing the creative challenges and triumphs of crafting the 50th special Plus surprise appearances 🛸 Highlights Include: How the cast prepared for the monumental “Day of the Doctor” episode Moffat’s insights into balancing nostalgia with innovation Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 13, 202524 min

Ep 116From Stage to Shadows: Profiling Horror Visionaries Robert Eggers & Zach Cregger

In this episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, we dive into the eerie brilliance of two modern horror auteurs: Robert Eggers and Zach Cregger. Though their paths to filmmaking couldn’t be more different—Eggers from the brooding world of theater, Cregger from the irreverent heights of sketch comedy—they’ve each carved out unforgettable spaces in the genre. We trace Eggers’ evolution from designing stage productions to crafting atmospheric nightmares like The Witch, The Lighthouse, and The Northman, culminating in his upcoming reimagining of Nosferatu. Meanwhile, Cregger’s pivot from Whitest Kids U Know to the twisted psychological terrain of Barbarian reveals a filmmaker unafraid to weaponize the familiar—turning domestic rituals into sites of dread. 🧠 Topics Covered Robert Eggers’ theatrical roots and how they inform his meticulous world-building The Witch (2015): folklore, isolation, and the terror of belief The Lighthouse: descent into madness and maritime myth The Northman: vengeance, mythic masculinity, and primal storytelling Nosferatu: Eggers’ upcoming gothic revival and its legacy Zach Cregger’s comedic origins and transition to horror Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Aug 12, 20256 min

S5 Ep 19Ross Marquand Looks Through Sean’s Eyes: Trauma, Light, and Alien Truths

In this episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, we dive into the haunting and intimate journey of Sean Bruner, played by Ross Marquand — a security guard grappling with buried trauma as he and his wife Andrea prepare for their first child. After a mysterious encounter with a beam of light, Sean awakens in a hospital with an uncanny ability to draw vivid extraterrestrial landscapes and beings. But this isn’t your typical alien abduction story — it’s a psychological descent into memory, identity, and the thin veil between reality and the unknown. We explore how the film uses Sean’s anxiety as a compass, mapping his emotional unraveling alongside the emergence of cryptic clues. Therapist Sara Bulger enters the story as both skeptic and seeker, helping Sean unlock suppressed memories that point to a desert site with ties to his past — and possibly to something far larger. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Aug 11, 202515 min

S5 Ep 18Byte JK Simmons And Steven Yeun

The two actors talk playing superhero father and son in the adaptation of the Robert Kirkman comic. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Aug 10, 20252 min

S5 Ep 17Bloodlines and Legacy: Behind the Scenes of Outlander: Blood of My Blood

In this special press conference edition, we dive into the heart of Outlander: Blood of My Blood, the highly anticipated prequel to the beloved Outlander series. Recorded live with the cast, this episode captures the energy, camaraderie, and creative vision behind the show’s exploration of ancestry, identity, and the enduring pull of legacy. Actors Tony Curran, Rory Alexander, Sam Retford, Conor MacNeill, and Seamus McLean Ross share candid reflections on stepping into historical roles that echo through time. From the emotional weight of portraying real lineage to the thrill of expanding the Outlander universe, this conversation reveals how sci-fi and historical drama intersect to illuminate the human experience. What You Will Hear Is the leadership vacuum a positive or negative A candid discussion on whether the series further complicates the MacKenzie family dynamics—and how those tensions ripple across generations Speculation on Rory Alexander’s portrayal of Murtagh: do his feelings for Ellen MacKenzie bear any fruit, or are they destined to remain unspoken? A provocative question raised: why was no successor chosen within the clan, and what does that omission say about power, tradition, and change? Is the leadership vaccum a positive or negative ? Start Your Free One Year Free Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Aug 8, 202536 min

S5 Ep 16Starfighters, Wizards, And Castings On Explore Weekly For August 7th

This week’s roundup is a pulse-check on genre storytelling, has Tony dives into this week's headlines. Including: 🧑‍🚀 Star Wars: Starfighter Casting 🎭 Freaker Friday Review 🌍 Alien Earth Review ⚔️ Weapons Review: What We Know 🕷️ Spider-Verse: Spin-Off Confirmed 🧛 Buffy Reboot Casting 😶‍🌫️ A Quiet Place III 🧝 Tales of the Shire: First Look 🎧 Audible’s Harry Potter Ensemble Revealed 🎬 Top 2025 DC & Marvel Films Ranked By Collider Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Aug 7, 202511 min

Ep 115Kat Cunning on Star People, UFOs, and Multi-Layered Identity

In this episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, I sat down with the magnetic Kat Cunning—actor, musician, and boundary-breaking performer—whose journey from Broadway to Hollywood has been anything but ordinary. Kat first caught the spotlight in HBO’s The Deuce, a breakout role that opened doors to collaborations with icons like Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson. On Broadway she was in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, alongside Janet McTeer and Liev Schreiber. Now, Kat takes on one of their most layered roles yet in Adam Finberg’s Star People, portraying Claire—a character haunted by a childhood vision of a UFO during the infamous Phoenix Lights Incident. As Claire searches for answers across time and memory, Kat brings a raw vulnerability and cosmic curiosity to the screen, challenging the boundaries of identity, belief, and connection. 🎧 What You’ll Hear: Behind-the-scenes stories from Star People and the emotional weight of portraying Claire How sci-fi becomes a lens for exploring trauma, obsession, and the search for truth The real-life mystery of the Phoenix Lights and its influence on the film’s narrative Why Kat believes vulnerability is their superpower—on stage, on screen, and in life Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Aug 6, 202517 min

S5 Ep 15Trek Tuesday: Mike McMahan on Comedy, Canon, and the Heart of Star Trek

I beam aboard Mike McMahan—creator and showrunner of Star Trek: Lower Decks. From his early days writing for South Park to co-creating Rick and Morty, McMahan has carved out a unique space in genre storytelling, blending irreverent humor with deep reverence for sci-fi lore. 🎙️ In this candid conversation, McMahan shares: How his comedy roots shaped his approach to writing for Star Trek The balancing act of honoring canon while poking fun at it Why Lower Decks centers on the unsung heroes of Starfleet Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Aug 5, 202523 min

S5 Ep 12Explore Weekly Has Superhero Box Office And A New War Of The Worlds

On this week’s edition of Explore Weekly, I venture into the multiverse of sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and comics with some fresh headlines. 🚨 Headlines & Highlights War of the Worlds Reimagined Ice Cube leads an immersive reboot debuting on Prime, blending catastrophe with cutting-edge tech in a cyber-thriller format. Box Office Battles: Fantastic Four vs Superman First Steps pulls ahead with $218M globally, but the Man of Steel stays resilient at $502M. Is comic cinema evolving beyond formula? Starfleet Academy Trailer Drops SDCC reveals Holly Hunter and Paul Giamatti in a fresh chapter of the Star Trek universe. X-Men Youth Reboot Teased Kevin Feige and Jake Schreier hint at a bold new tone with younger mutants—post-Avengers: Secret Wars. Alien Earth: A Twisted Prequel Set two years before Alien, Sydney Chandler stars as a hybrid with unsettling innocence. The Boys Season 5 Trailer: Final Blowout Supernatural stars crossover into the chaos. Homelander’s reign intensifies. Star Trek: Khan Audio Drama George Takei joins a stellar cast for the September 8th premiere. Frankenstein Recasted Guillermo del Toro swaps Andrew Garfield for Jacob Elordi, with November streaming plans. Avatar Expanded Universe Teased James Cameron plans animated anthologies and maybe even a feature film. Magneto Casting Dreams From Charles Dance to John David Washington, Comics Basics lists top contenders to take on the mutant icon. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Jul 31, 202510 min

S39 Ep 3Sara Tomko on the Humanity and Complexity of Resident Alien's multi-layered Characters

In this episode of Sci-Fi Talk, host Tony Tellado chats with guest Sara Tomko, who plays a multilayered character on the hit series "Resident Alien". They dive into the complex dynamics of her character, Asta, as she navigates the fine line between being a mother and a best friend. Sara also sheds light on her on and off-screen chemistry with her co-stars and reflects on the show's exploration of humanity through the lens of sci-fi, fantasy, and human emotion. Start A Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Jul 30, 202517 min

S5 Ep 10Trek Tuesday: Alan Ruck on Redeeming Captain Harriman

On this Trek Tuesday episode, Alan Ruck to explores his return to the Star Trek universe in Star Trek: Of Gods and Men. We talked about how the 2008 fan film allowed him to revisit and expand the character of Captain John Harriman, originally introduced in Star Trek: Generations. Alan shared his excitement about giving Harriman more depth and agency, noting how fans and professionals came together to create a meaningful tribute to the franchise. ✨ Highlights from our conversation: Ruck reflected on Harriman's early depiction as inexperienced and unsure in Generations, and how Of Gods and Men offered a chance to redeem that image. The unique atmosphere on set: a true labor of love fueled by fan dedication and professional passion. Start A Free One Year Trial With Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today Take A Test Drive With Free Episodes And Videos

Jul 29, 202522 min

S5 Ep 9Star People Looks At A UFO Story Grounded With Human Issues.

Star People, a hauntingly powerful sci-fi film that blurs the line between survival and obsession. Director Adam Finberg walks us through the mysterious allure of extraterrestrial discovery, while actors Eddie Martinez and Adriana Aluna Martinez bring raw insight into portraying immigrants chasing hope across the blistering Arizona desert. Together, we unpack themes of addiction recovery, isolation, and the desperate human drive toward meaning—whether through chasing distant stars or simply seeking shelter. The conversation dives deep into the metaphors layered within the film, and how sci-fi serves as a mirror for our most visceral human experiences. Start Your Free One Year Trial With Sci-Fi Talk Plus Take A Free Test Drive With Sample Episodes And Videos

Jul 28, 202519 min

S5 Ep 8The Magnetic Edge: Janet Stilson on Charismites, Power, and the Price of Influence

In this episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, host Tony sits down with journalist-turned-author Janet Stilson to dive into the captivating world of The Juice. The novel explores a near-future society where influence isn’t just earned — it’s chemically enhanced. At the heart of the story is a drug called "the Juice," which grants users extraordinary charisma, turning them into “Charismites.” But what happens when charm becomes currency? Janet shares the inspiration behind her dystopian vision, blending her experience in media and politics with a sci-fi lens. We unpack how charisma, power, and identity intertwine — and what this speculative tale reveals about the way humans seek connection and control. Is artificial charm the future of leadership? And how far are we willing to go for influence? Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today Take A Test Drive on Plus Today

Jul 25, 202524 min

S5 Ep 6Sci-Fi Talk Weekly – July 24, 2025

Welcome to this week’s episode of Sci-Fi Talk Weekly, where we dive into the latest buzz from the worlds of sci-fi, fantasy, and superhero cinema. Here's what’s lighting up the genre universe: Fantastic Four: First Steps – Critics React Marvel’s “First Family” returns in Fantastic Four: First Steps. Set in a retro-futuristic 1960s Earth, the film blends cosmic spectacle with heartfelt family dynamics. Wonder Woman Reboot Gets a New Voice DC Studios has tapped Supergirl screenwriter Ana Nogueira to pen the upcoming Wonder Woman reboot. Clayface Eyes Female Lead The upcoming Clayface film, a horror-tinged DCU entry, is close to casting its female lead. Naomi Ackie (Mickey 17, Sorry, Baby) is reportedly in talks to join Tom Rhys Harries in this twisted tale of transformation and identity. Freakier Friday – First Reactions Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis are back in Freakier Friday, and critics are loving it. Screen Crush Lists 10 Superhero Movies That Saved a Franchise Every Marvel Multiverse Saga Movie Ranked (Worst to First) Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Jul 24, 202510 min

S5 Ep 3"Finding Answers On Bigfoot with Dr. Mireya Mayor"

In this inspiring and wildly unexpected episode, a conversation with the indomitable Dr. Mireya Mayor—a woman who has leapt from the sidelines of the NFL straight into the heart of the jungle. She's a real-life Lara Croft, armed not with fiction, but with degrees, determination, and a deep curiosity about our planet’s wildest mysteries. As a former Miami Dolphins cheerleader turned National Geographic explorer, Dr. Mayor's journey is anything but conventional. The daughter of Cuban immigrants and a mother of six, she defies every box society tries to put her in. And yes—you’ve seen her on TV chasing legends and searching for Bigfoot, blending skepticism with science in her signature fearless style. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today Take A Test Drive With Free Samples

Jul 21, 202519 min

S5 Ep 2"Surviving Stakeland – Inside the Vampire Apocalypse"

In this episode, we sink our teeth into the gritty, post-apocalyptic world of Stakeland, the cult horror hit that reimagined vampire survival with raw intensity and emotional depth. Recorded live in the heart of Manhattan, where cast and crew gathered. Sean Nelson – Shares how his character brought a human core to the chaos. Michael Cerveris (Fringe) – Discusses stepping into villainous shoes and balancing theatrical nuance with brutal realism. Jim Mickle – The visionary director on how Stakeland helped redefine indie horror. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Jul 18, 202541 min

S5 Ep 4News: The Silver Surfer Switch & Lucas at Comic Con

Welcome to Explore Weekly for June 17th! In this episode of Explore Weekly, host Tony Tellado dives deep into the latest headlines from the worlds of sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and comics. Headlines & Highlights Emmy Nominations: Severance leads with 27 nods, Harrison Ford gets recognized for Shrinking, and Black Mirror returns with 10 nominations. Handmaid’s Tale earns a single nomination for Cherry Jones. San Diego Comic Con Preview: Marvel and Warner Bros. skip major panels, but George Lucas makes his first appearance to promote the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. Joined by Guillermo del Toro, Doug Chiang, and moderated by Queen Latifah. New Horror from Robert Eggers: Werwulf stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, with Lilly-Rose Depp in talks. A period piece following the tradition of Nosferatu. Legend of Zelda Casting News: Bo Bragason as Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. Live-action film expected in 2027. Bonus Content on Sci-Fi Talk Plus Exclusive video trailers and behind-the-scenes footage Interviews from Jurassic World Rebirth, Superman, and The Hail Mary Project Trailer Try the multimedia experience with a free one-year trial—just $1.99/month after! 🎧 Listen and watch on desktop, laptop, or phone. Start Your Free One Year Free Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Jul 17, 20256 min

S4 Ep 24Trek Tuesday Exploring the Heart of Starfleet: Mary Wiseman on Sylvia Tilley

Actress Mary Wiseman—best known for her role as Sylvia Tilley on Star Trek: Discovery—takes us on a journey through her character's evolution, quirks, and connection to the Star Trek universe. From Tilley's early days as a cadet to becoming a key player aboard the U.S.S. Discovery, Mary reflects on portraying one of the franchise’s most relatable and complex characters. She also shares her thoughts of First Officer Raynor and her teaching duties. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today on Sci-Fi Talk Plus Enroll in Free Account for a test drive on Plus

Jul 15, 20256 min

S4 Ep 13Into the Jungle: Indigenous and the Terror of the Darien Gap

Today on Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, we venture into the thick, haunting greenery of Panama’s notorious Darien Gap to unpack Indigenous—a chilling survival horror film that premiered at the 2014 Tribeca Film Festival. The movie follows five adventurous friends who set out to explore the remote jungle, despite chilling whispers of murdered teenagers and a deadly cryptid lurking in the shadows. Spoiler alert: it might just be the legendary Chupacabra. Start Your Free One Year Free Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Jul 14, 202527 min

S22 Ep 5Superman And Lois’ Wole’ Parks

He plays John Henry Irons in the series who is of course Steel. We chat about the complexity of the character, his suit, the effects and more. Subscribe To Sci-Fi Talk Plus for a free one year trial and a low locked in price

Jul 13, 202519 min

S1 Ep 2All Star Superman Special

Recorded Live At The Paley Center in New York are Voice Director Andrea Romano, Screenwriter the late great Dwayne McDuffie and in a mini-press conference is actor Christina Hendricks who voices Lois Lane. Special thanks to Gary Mierneau. A Very Special Thanks to The Paley Center. Sign Up for Sci-Fi Talk Plus during supersale with locked in forever price.

Jul 12, 202513 min

S4 Ep 23Superman Week: Power And Principle: Behind Superman vs. The Elite

This episode dives deep into the bold and thought-provoking animated feature Superman vs. The Elite with exclusive interviews from two fan-favorite voices: George Newbern (Superman) and Pauley Perrette (Lois Lane). Together, they bring insight and energy to a film that asks one of the most provocative questions in superhero storytelling: Is truth and justice still enough in a world that embraces might over morals? Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Now Check Out Free episodes on Plus with free sampler

Jul 11, 20255 min

S4 Ep 22Superman Week: Tim Daly Bid Farewell to Superman in Justice League: Doom

Tim Daly as he reflects on his iconic journey voicing the Man of Steel—culminating in his final performance as Superman in the animated feature Justice League: Doom. From Superman: The Animated Series to the Justice League films, Daly’s voice became synonymous with truth, justice, and quiet strength. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Sample free episodes of Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Jul 10, 20255 min