Hollywood Gold

Writer Kiwi Smith recalls the making of the 2001 classic LEGALLY BLONDE. Fresh off of her first hit 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU, Kiwi and her writing partner Karen McCullah were eager to find a story centered on female empowerment that was fun, fresh, smart, and accessible. She found all that and more in an unpublished manuscript about a sorority girl going to Stanford Law. Kiwi remembers wearing pink to their studio pitch and being fully committed to bringing Elle's story to the screen in the right way. A huge part of that was the casting. Among many others, Britney Spears was floated as a possible idea, but it was undeniably Reese Witherspoon's part. Reese emerged as a true leader and her turn as Elle is the stuff of movie legend and inspired a generation of beautiful, smart, and successful women. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Brad Simpson recalls the production of the hit romantic comedy that was groundbreaking in both its casting and concept. After one meeting where a studio exec pitched changing the lead character to white to appeal to a wider audience, the producers decided to finance the script independently. Authenticity was incredibly important to them, but it was hard to find support for a film set in Singapore. They struck gold with writers Peter Chiarelli and Adele Lim alongside director Jon M. Chu, and multiple studios bid on the film that went on to gross over $200 million at the box office. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stunt Coordinator Don Theerathada joins Hollywood Gold to discuss his journey from action star in Thailand to working on major Hollywood productions. He shares how meeting Jackie Chan helped launch his career and reflects on his experiences on films like The Matrix, John Wick, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Don also breaks down the role of stunt coordinators, the importance of preparation and safety, and why top action stars like Keanu Reeves and Tom Cruise stand out for their discipline and commitment to the craft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Hollywood Gold, Daniela and producer Riva Marker return for an Oscar recap, breaking down the biggest moments from the 98th Academy Awards. They discuss major wins for One Battle After Another, including Best Picture and Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson, alongside standout victories for Sinners, with Michael B. Jordan taking Best Actor and Autumn Arkapaw making history with her cinematography win. They also unpack surprise wins, memorable speeches, and the overall vibe of a ceremony that felt like a warm celebration of filmmaking. Along the way, they touch on standout fashion, a nostalgic Bridesmaids reunion, and what the night’s results say about where the industry is heading next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Fred Berger guides us through the making of 2016's wildly popular musical LA LA LAND starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. The film was the brainchild and passion project of director Damien Chazelle, but as a young and new filmmaker, no studio was willing to take a chance on his vision for a big movie musical that he wanted to be both nostalgic and incredibly modern. In order to prove himself, he made 2014's Oscar-winning WHIPLASH, and soon it was off to the races with producers Fred Berger and Jordan Horowitz, whose faith in him never wavered.This episode is sponsored by Film Parliament, an online course that teaches filmmakers how to schedule and budget a feature film. Built by a working producer, the course is practical, hands-on, and designed to help you move your project forward with confidence.Get 10 percent off with code GOLD10 at filmparliament.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Hollywood Gold, Daniela and producer Riva Marker return for their annual Oscar predictions, breaking down the biggest categories from Best Picture to acting, directing, writing, and the newly added casting category. They debate the race between Sinners and One Battle After Another, share insider knowledge into what drives Academy voters, and make their final calls ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night.This episode is sponsored by Film Parliament, an online course that teaches filmmakers how to schedule and budget a feature film. Built by a working producer, the course is practical, hands-on, and designed to help you move your project forward with confidence.Get 10 percent off with code GOLD10 at filmparliament.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Editor Olivier Bugge Coutté joins us to reveal how he and Director Joachim Trier used nonlinear storytelling, formally playful filmmaking, and layered emotional arcs to craft the character-driven tapestry of Sentimental Value. Reflecting on their friendship, which began in film school, Coutté shares the kinds of films that shaped their sensibilities and explores why their intimate, international collaborations, including The Worst Person in the World, resonate so deeply with American audiences. He also discusses his approach to editing ensemble films, what the ending means to him as an artist, and offers insight into Gustav’s motivations, as portrayed by Stellan Skarsgård, throughout the film. Be sure to catch this nominated film before the 2026 Academy Awards! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Rachael Horowitz joins Hollywood Gold to talk about the making of Moneyball, the underdog baseball story that became one of the defining sports films of the era. Horowitz traces her unconventional path into producing and walks listeners through the film’s long, high-stakes development, from surviving a bidding war to optioning Michael Lewis’s book, an abrupt director change that ultimately brought Bennett Miller on board, and major shifts in post-production that helped define the final film. In this episode, she reveals how Moneyball evolved into something more than a sports movie: a deeply personal story about devotion, identity, and the love affair between a man and his work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Line Producer Kenneth Yu joins Hollywood Gold discuss the record breaking, Oscar-nominated film, Sinners. From the challenges of shooting in Louisiana to working with acclaimed director Ryan Coogler, Yu shares the highs and lows of the adventure that was creating this groundbreaking film. Diving into behind-the-scenes stories about building entire sets in the middle of nowhere, the technical magic behind filming Michael B. Jordan as twins, and the unpredictable chaos of shooting on location, this episode will be sure to leave you surprised. Be sure to watch before the 2026 Academy Awards! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Mark Ciardi joins us to discuss Miracle, the rousing 2004 ice hockey drama, in anticipation of the 2026 Olympic Winter Games. A former professional athlete himself, Ciardi shares how he came to develop the film, from shaping the screenplay to taking a chance on up-and-coming director Gavin O’Connor. He also recounts the challenge of balancing dramatic storytelling with authentic on-ice action, casting real hockey players and filming live crowds at college games. Miracle ultimately emerged as an enduring and beloved American sports film, delivering an unforgettable underdog story through the triumph of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer John Walker joins Hollywood Gold to revisit Pixar’s superhero adventure, The Incredibles. After beginning his career in theater, Walker teamed up with director Brad Bird to help usher in a new era of animated filmmaking. He reflects on the early-2000s challenges of animation, from the unprecedented task of bringing believable human characters to life to collaborating with Steve Jobs to develop the film’s groundbreaking technology. Over several years of production, Walker learned to balance creative perfectionism with forward momentum, guiding his team through an exacting process that ultimately produced a critically acclaimed, enduring family classic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer Bob Gale shares the story behind the iconic film Back to the Future following its 40-year anniversary. Gale traces his creative partnership with director Robert Zemeckis back to their USC days and a shared love of classic Hollywood storytelling and time-travel tales. The idea clicked in 1980 after Gale discovered his father’s 1940 high school yearbook and asked: What if you went to high school with your dad? Despite multiple rejections, a tumultuous casting process, grueling production challenges, and a tight schedule, Back to the Future ultimately came together to form a beloved franchise that instantly captured audiences worldwide.This episode is sponsored by Film Parliament, an online course that teaches filmmakers how to schedule and budget a feature film. Built by a working producer, the course is practical, hands-on, and designed to help you move your project forward with confidence.Get 10 percent off with code GOLD10 at filmparliament.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director Gus Van Sant joins Hollywood Gold to revisit the making of Good Will Hunting, the breakout film that turned Matt Damon and Ben Affleck from unknowns into overnight stars. He reveals the story’s unlikely origins, tracing its evolution from a scrappy action script into one of the defining dramas of the 1990s. Van Sant reflects on the influence of Robin Williams’ early commitment to the film, the visual choices that kept its quiet, dialogue-driven scenes dynamic, and the role of improvisation in crafting some of its most iconic moments. Upon release, Good Will Hunting became both a commercial and critical success, cementing its status as an enduring modern classic.This episode is sponsored by Film Parliament, an online course that teaches filmmakers how to schedule and budget a feature film. Built by a working producer, the course is practical, hands-on, and designed to help you move your project forward with confidence.Get 10 percent off with code GOLD10 at filmparliament.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our first new episode of the season, Producer Michael London takes us behind the scenes on beloved holiday film, The Family Stone. London goes through the film’s unlikely journey from a sharp, risky script (originally titled Fucking Hate Her) to a star-studded Christmas movie, including the pivotal push to cast A-list star Diane Keaton and the domino effect that followed. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about releasing the film at Christmas, the rare “family” atmosphere on set, and Keaton’s unforgettable presence as both onscreen and offscreen matriarch. The conversation builds to the story of the emotional test screening that convinced the studio to believe in the film despite shaky numbers, cementing it's future as a lasting audience favorite. About two decades later, London reflects on the movie’s evolution into a true holiday staple and offers a hopeful look into its future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to another season of Hollywood Gold! Writer/director/producer Nancy Meyers joins us to discuss her cozy holiday classic, The Holiday. Masterfully shifting between sunny LA and the charming countryside of England, she discusses how the dual storylines made the crew feel like they were creating two different movies. With a focus on crafting female characters with "gumption," Nancy ensured that stars Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet not only represented modern womanhood, but also found perfect love interests in Jude Law and Jack Black, who shine as worthy partners. This lighthearted romantic comedy transformed into a holiday phenomenon, warming hearts across the world and becoming a must-watch holiday tradition nearly two decades later. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Line Producer Kenneth Yu joins Hollywood Gold in our final episode of the season to discuss recently released film, Sinners. From the challenges of shooting in Louisiana to working with acclaimed director Ryan Coogler, Yu shares the highs and lows of the adventure that was creating this groundbreaking film. Diving into behind-the-scenes stories about building entire sets in the middle of nowhere, the technical magic behind filming Michael B. Jordan as twins, and the unpredictable chaos of shooting on location, this episode will be sure to leave you surprised. Thank you for an amazing season of Hollywood Gold, and we will see you in the fall! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode of Hollywood Gold, Daniela, Vanessa, and Andrew prepare for summer as they discuss the most anticipated movie releases of the season. From horror franchise additions such as Final Destination Bloodlines and 28 Years Later to family favorites like Lilo and Stitch and How to Train Your Dragon, there is no doubt that this summer will bring some of the year's greatest hits. Gear up for what is sure to be an amazing summer! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maisonette Co-founder & CEO Sylvana Ward Durrett joins Hollywood Gold to share an inside look at her time as Director of Special Projects at Vogue, as captured in the documentary The First Monday in May. The film follows the creation of The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s stunning exhibition, China: Through the Looking Glass, and its transformation into the unforgettable 2015 Met Gala theme. Durrett reveals how every dazzling detail comes together under the leadership of fashion icon Anna Wintour, in addition to spilling a few jaw-dropping celebrity stories that you won’t want to miss with the 2025 Met Gala around the corner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NEON Chief Marketing Officer Christian Parkes pulls the curtain back on movie marketing, revealing the secrets behind some of NEON’s most daring campaigns. With a passion for film, Parkes shares how he approaches marketing with the filmmaker's vision as his priority, treating marketing not just as promotion, but as an extension of their artistry. Known for pushing boundaries and defying expectations, he believes marketing should challenge audiences and surprise them at every turn, making no two campaigns the same. He discusses how his success is largely due to his belief that marketing is an area to have fun in and be creative, as seen in his work promoting Longlegs, Anora, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Michael Roiff returns to Hollywood Gold to discuss how the hit romantic-comedy Waitress became a musical sensation. From the initial pitch in 2007 to its first opening night in 2016, Roiff shares how different theater is compared to film, taking years to find its creative and musical stride. While Roiff was disappointed after opening night in Cambridge, he took the opportunity to revamp the show prior to its Broadway debut, eventually earning four Tony nominations in 2016 with the help of lead, Sara Bareilles. He shares how, unlike film, each show, tour, and cast brought a different experience to the audience, speaking to both the film and the musical's long-lasting legacy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Todd Lieberman, founder of production company Hidden Pictures, recounts the making of one of the most iconic and lauded boxing movies of all time. It had been a dream of Todd's to make a boxing movie, and he knew The Fighter was the one as soon as it came across his desk, but the process from script to screen wasn't an easy one. There were multiple cast and director changes, and the original studio pulled out of the project. But the challenges were blessings in disguise as they allowed director David O. Russell the freedom to bring his trademark dark humor to the film, and actors Christian Bale, Mark Wahlberg, Melissa Leo, and Amy Adams to fully embody their characters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Dan Levine recalls the making of 2016's iconic Arrival. From the moment he read Ted Chiang's Story of Your Life, Dan knew he had to find a way to bring it to the screen. Director Denis Villeneuve, an incredible talent but still relatively unknown, was the perfect choice. Producers had to wait until Denis wrapped Sicario, but things moved quickly once Amy Adams came on board and suggested Jeremy Renner as her co-star. Production went smoothly, although the material presented endless challenges for Denis and the producers. The scariest moment was after the finished film was screened for the studio - they did not like it and wanted rewrites and a reshoot to change the ending. Dan knew the film worked and fought for the ending that garnered 8 Oscar nominations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Doug Wick takes us behind the scenes of the legendary Gladiator and its highly anticipated sequel, Gladiator II. Initially marketed as a fight movie, it attracted mostly men; however, Wick shares how the dramatic and harrowing themes drew in female audiences, transcending the film beyond its action elements. He shares his firsthand experience working with visionary director Ridley Scott and how Scott’s detailed storyboarding for both films streamlined the shooting process and created a clear vision for the cast and crew. From collaborating with Gladiator icons Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix to assembling an all-star cast for Gladiator II, including Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, and Pedro Pascal, Wick offers thrilling insights into the epic world of the Gladiator franchise. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

FilmNation CEO and Executive Producer Glen Basner joins us to discuss his unique perspective in foreign sales and how it helped to created Oscar-winning hits such as Conclave, Anora, and more. Basner shares how FilmNation balances creative vision with market realities to ensure success, putting trust in great filmmakers and communicating with international partners. While there is no single approach, he pulls the curtain back on the foreign sales world, using Conclave and Anora as an example. A trailblazer in independent film, Basner encourages focusing on creativity rather than market limitations, believing in trusting his instincts to make lasting, impactful films. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director of Photography Lol Crawley uses his unique perspective to discuss his Oscar-winning work on The Brutalist. A 10-year friendship, Crawley shares how his trusting relationship with Brady Corbet created a collaborative and creative environment on set, noting the importance of aligning with a director's vision rather than overpowering it. He dives deep into the artistic inspiration of the film, explaining how it was designed to feel like an archive with a patchwork quality, balancing historical accuracy with artistic interpretation. While using many different kinds of cameras made the shoot more complex, we learn how these risks contributed to the aesthetic and emotion of the film, earning Crawley the Oscar win. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Alex Coco takes us behind the scenes of the making of the Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or winner and recent winner of the Acadamy's Best Picture award, Anora. Alex reflects on his collaboration with director Sean Baker, revealing how flexibility with the script led to a more authentic and organic storytelling experience, including a spontaneous real-life double rainbow that was written its own scene. He also discusses one of the most important components behind Anora’s success: handpicking the right cast, focusing on who was truly suited for each role over star power. This approach led to the critical casting of Mikey Madison, who played a pivotal role in earning the film the highest honor at Cannes. Congratulations to Anora for its Oscar success! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producers Fred Berger and Alex Heineman take us behind the scenes of A Complete Unknown, a biopic of legendary artist Bob Dylan. A movie six years in the making, Berger and Heineman share how they started this journey by casting a young Timothée Chalamet fresh out of Call Me by Your Name. Chalamet dedicated himself to this role, spending his time mastering piano, guitar, and how to exactly capture Dylan's distinctive voice. Berger and Heineman also dive into how critical James Mangold was in bringing this film to life, never sacrificing the creative and emotional core that was at the heart of Bob Dylan's rise to fame. Nominated for eight Academy Awards, there is no doubt that this film will be at the forefront of audiences' minds for years to come. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Executive Producer Alexandra Loewy dives deep into the making of 2025 Oscar-nominated horror film, The Substance. She shares how Writer/Director Coralie Fargeat meticulously crafted the film, spending two years writing what Loewy calls the most detailed script she had ever read, paired with an 80-page lookbook including striking visual references. With a very demanding filming process, Fargeat had stars Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley begin prep six weeks ahead of filming rather than the more conventional two, using the time to explain the demands in prosthetics, acting, choreography, and more. Despite challenges along the way, the film found resounding success starting at Cannes Film Festival and beyond, solidifying its place as one of the most unforgettable films of the year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Bruce Cohen recounts the making of 2012’s Oscar winning Silver Linings Playbook, David O. Russell’s brilliant film about a bipolar man and the widow who changed his life. Not only did the film launch a young Jennifer Lawrence into a new... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Michael Roiff takes us behind the scenes of beloved romantic-comedy, Waitress. What started as an underdog project skyrocketed to success, thanks to a mix of luck, timing, and the passionate champions who believed in it. Roiff shares how they met Keri Russell and instantly knew she was the right choice, even delaying production six months to ensure her availability. Waitress not only leaves behind a lasting legacy as a heartfelt and impactful film, but also serves as a tribute to late Director and Screenwriter Adrienne Shelly, who unexpectedly passed shortly before the movie's release. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode of Hollywood Gold, Daniela and fellow producer Riva Marker dive deep into this year's Oscar nominations. From Kieran Culkin to Demi Moore, to The Brutalist to Wicked, Daniela and Riva explore each film and performer nominated, using both their personal taste and professional experience to cast their predictions. Tune in for this exciting episode and gear up for Hollywood's biggest night of the year! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer and the Co-founder and CEO of Tribeca Enterprises Jane Rosenthal joins us to discuss family comedy Meet the Parents and the successful franchise it inspired. What began as the simple yet wildly entertaining premise of meeting a tough, mobster-like father-in-law like the iconic Robert De Niro turned into a comedic phenomenon. Rosenthal reveals how De Niro's commitment to blending realism with laugh-out-loud absurdity created unforgettable moments for audiences everywhere. She shares how the film's success was rooted in the nerve-wracking and often awkward universal experience of meeting your partner's parents, a moment that viewers can bring their personal experience to. The sequel, Meet the Fockers, was envisioned during the first film’s production, with Dustin Hoffman and Barbra Streisand quickly cast as Ben Stiller’s on-screen parents. With rumors of a new installment in the franchise, audiences can look forward to more laughs with the family! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Daniela and Vanessa discuss their personal experience with the LA wildfires and share their support with the survivors who tragically lost their homes. For more information on how to help, see below for trusted resources:Mutual Aid Network LACalifornia Fire FoundationLAFDFriends in DeedDream CenterEntertainment Community Fund Pasadena Humane SocietyDirect ReliefCalifornia Community FoundationWorld Central KitchenBaby2BabyLA Regional Food BankWestside Food Bank Red CrossMotion Picture Television Fund Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Editor Joe Walker takes us behind the scenes of the sci-fi epic, Dune: Part Two, and its Oscar-winning predecessor. In collaboration with director Denis Villeneuve, Walker shares how they worked together to balance intimate character moments with grand world-building and action, using his specialty in sound to create immersive environments and emotional depth. While Dune: Part One focused on introducing characters and setting the stage, Dune: Part Two adopted a faster pace to depict the main character Paul Atreides' transformative journey. Despite extensive planning, and even a dedicated "worm unit," Walker highlights how Villeneuve and the team embraced spontaneity when better creative opportunities revealed themselves, especially for intimate or ad-libbed scenes, creating one of the greatest sci-fi sagas of our time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer Akiva Goldsman guides us through the long and winding road to the production of 2001's Best Picture Oscar winner A BEAUTIFUL MIND. Inspired to take on the challenge of adapting the book by growing up in a house that fostered kids with mental... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode, Daniela and Vanessa share their favorite holiday movies. From Christmas classics such as Miracle on 34th Street and It's a Wonderful Life to modern holiday stories like Love, Actually and The Family Stone, these movies bring joy and comfort every winter season. This episode also brought a reflection of warm holiday traditions with loved ones, bonding over family movie nights and heartfelt stories that last a lifetime. Happy Holidays from Stay Gold and wishing you a joyful and warm holiday! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer/director/producer Nancy Meyers joins us to discuss her cozy holiday classic, The Holiday. Masterfully shifting between sunny LA and the charming countryside of England, she discusses how the dual storylines made the crew feel like they were creating two different movies. With a focus on crafting female characters with "gumption," Nancy ensured that stars Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet not only represented modern womanhood, but also found perfect love interests in Jude Law and Jack Black, who shine as worthy partners. This lighthearted romantic comedy transformed into a holiday phenomenon, warming hearts across the world and becoming a must-watch holiday tradition nearly two decades later. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actor Joe Pantoliano, or "Joey Pants," pulls back the curtain on his extraordinary acting career, sharing captivating behind-the-scenes tales from iconic films like Risky Business, The Fugitive, and Midnight Run. Beginning his Hollywood journey in 1971, he worked as a waiter to make ends meet as a young actor. Rising to the star we know today, Joey offers insights into the lessons he’s learned about humility and building lasting relationships, illustrated through his unique bond with Steven Spielberg and his memorable role in The Goonies. With over 170 acting credits, Joey’s stories showcase his comedic talent, grounded nature, and ability to find joy in Hollywood’s unpredictable world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Screenwriter David S. Ward delves into the fascinating origin of his Oscar-winning screenplay, The Sting. He recounts the behind-the-scenes story of how his agent pitched the idea to Robert Redford using a recorded six-minute pitch by David himself. Within two weeks, actor Paul Newman and director George Roy Hill were on board. Despite conflicts on set and mixed early reviews, the film became a sleeper hit, eventually winning seven Academy Awards. Tune in to discover the intricate balance of artistry, challenges, and personalities behind the making of The Sting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode, Daniela and Vanessa dive into the almost impossible challenge of picking their top four movies. From iconic classics like The Graduate and Goodfellas to heartfelt dramas like Kramer vs. Kramer, the duo explores the delicate balance between personal favorites and critically acclaimed masterpieces. They also discuss their favorite hidden gems, the evolution of modern filmmaking, and a few must-watch TV series. To all those who celebrate, Happy Thanksgiving and remember to Stay Gold! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Costume Designer Paul Tazewell takes us into the magical world of Wicked and his role in transforming beloved characters Glinda and Elphaba for the screen. Striving to honor the spirit of the original Broadway show while presenting a fresh, cinematic experience, Paul created looks inspired by nature, intricate textures, and dynamic character contrasts. He highlights how Cynthia Erivo’s physicality, emotional depth, and connection to the material made her an ideal choice, while Ariana Grande’s audition showcased a perfect foil to Erivo’s Elphaba, blending charm and authenticity. Both actresses, as fashion icons, brought strong perspectives that enriched the visual storytelling, creating a collaborative experience for Paul as Costume Designer. Get your tickets to Wicked, in theaters November 22nd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Erik Feig reflects on the making of Step Up, the movie that launched one of the most iconic dance/romance film franchises in history. Inspired by classics like Footloose and Save the Last Dance, Erik set out to flip the script by creating a dance movie from a male perspective, transforming the genre from a "chick flick" into a compelling couple’s story. The game-changing decision to cast a fresh-faced Channing Tatum for his breakout role was just the beginning. What started as a small-budget, nearly straight-to-DVD film quickly turned into an international sensation, thanks in large part to its global appeal and dance sequences that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Editor Kevin Tent takes us through the making of Sideways in celebration of the film’s 20th anniversary. Kevin dives into his early days of mastering the editing process and his long-term collaboration with director Alexander Payne. He shares captivating insights on how Paul Giamatti, the film's star, was considered an editor’s best friend, making his job easy with his brilliant performances. From the unique perspective of the film's editor, Kevin shares how he was unsure of how the movie would succeed, but by the time the first screening ended, he knew they had created something special that would reach a wide range of audiences. Join us for a deep dive into the art of editing and help us honor Sideways in its 20th year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Executive Producer Ryan Heller takes us behind the scenes of A Real Pain and his collaboration with writer, director, and star Jesse Eisenberg. Described as both a captivating mix of oddball road movie and a personal story for Eisenberg, Ryan notes that this film's path to creation was clear thanks to its experienced team and casting choices. With only 25 days to shoot, the dynamic pairing of co-star Kieran Culkin and Eisenberg ignited the story with their combined lifetime acting experience and creative spark. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, Heller reveals how they knew within an hour of the screening that this film would be a great success. Get your tickets to A Real Pain, in theaters November 1st! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Producer Alex Coco takes us behind the scenes of the making of the Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or winner, Anora. Alex reflects on his collaboration with director Sean Baker, revealing how flexibility with the script led to a more authentic and organic storytelling experience, including a spontaneous real-life double rainbow that was written its own scene. He also discusses one of the most important components behind Anora’s success: handpicking the right cast, focusing on who was truly suited for each role over star power. This approach led to the critical casting of Mikey Madison, who played a pivotal role in earning the film the highest honor at Cannes. Get your tickets to Anora, in theaters now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer/director Hallie Meyers-Shyer reflects on the creation of Goodrich, set to release this Friday, October 18th. In this episode, she delves into the emotional and personal stories that inspired this heartwarming tale of a complex father-daughter relationship. Hallie discusses the casting process and how the legendary Michael Keaton, known for his talent in both comedy and drama, became an essential part of bringing this dramedy to life. The film was produced by Hollywood Gold host Daniela Taplin Lundberg and offers firsthand insights on the difficult but worthwhile process of making and releasing a theatrical movie in today's landscape. Get your tickets now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.