Ink to Film

Stephen King's apocalyptic epic is one of his most well-known novels, but how does it hold up in the time of COVID-19? In episode 167, Luke & James kick off Ink to Film's fifth season with the first 1/3rd of the iconic novel. Each of the characters main characters are discussed, including Stuart Redman, Nick Andros, Frannie Goldsmith, Larry Underwood, Lloyd Henried, and the Walking Dude himself, Randall Flagg. Join them next week for part two! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads

Pop the champagne, you've made it out of 2020. In episode 166, Luke & James pick the best/ worst adaptations of the year! Topics: Most Surprising Project Top 5 States (downloads) Worst Source Material Best Source Material Top 5 Countries (downloads) Worst Adaptation Top 10 Ink to Film Episodes (downloads) Best Adaptation Looking forward to 2021 Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads

Everyone's favorite beleaguered reindeer takes center-stage for this holiday special, spanning from the original story to the stop-motion animated classic. In episode 165, Luke & James learn all about the tragic story of Robert L. May--the inventor of a Christmas sensation that would go on to inspire chart-topping singles and a Rankin/Bass animated film still running to this day. Topics: Difficult to please bosses at Montgomery Ward, a songwriting brother-in-law, the reason for the melancholy, the themes present in all versions, an 8-minute short that's more faithful to the source, a biopic in the making, how Gene Autry came to record his iconic song, the fantasy world in the Rankin/Bass production, a winged Aslan, Yukon Cornelius's mystery gun, some real dastardly characters in unexpected places, a change involving the Island of Misfit Toys, and a final vote on which version of Rudolph works best! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads References: NPR Article "Writing Rudolph" Don't Subject Your Kids to Rudolph The Terrifying Philosophy of Rudolph Music: Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Remic (NON COPYRIGHT): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbSIJG-LeSU

Vampires get fabulous and sexy while retaining some real darkness in this Neil Jordan adaptation of Anne Rice's seminal novel. In episode 164, Luke & James compare the film starring Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Kirsten Dunst, and Christian Slater to its source, and ultimately cast their votes on which was better the version of this story! Topics: Which stars shined brightest in this loaded cast, Anne Rice's initial reaction to Tom Cruise's casting as Lestat, a reportedly miserable experience for Brad Pitt on set, some details from later books in "The Vampire Chronicles" that make it into the film, the importance of this movie in the history of vampire fiction, a plotting stumbling block the film exacerbates, Armand becoming Louis' "Vaddy," and one last time for Lestat to shine. Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Anne Rice has defined vampire fiction for a generation, but it all began with her debut novel where Louis de Pointe du Lac tells the story of his 200 year life to a mortal interviewer with a tape recorder. In episode 163, Luke & James visit the dark and fantastic world of a New Orleans long past. Topics: Anne Rice's legacy in genre fiction, the potential value of her style of prose, the vampire sex question, a tragic personal connection between the author and Claudia, what makes evil characters appealing, a theory on why editors may have initially passed on the eventual bestseller, and some solid writing advice. Join next week when they discuss the film adaptation starring Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

John McTiernan's action films are undeniable hallmarks of the 80s and 90s, so how does this Tom Clancy adaptation stack up to his other noteworthy entries? In episode 162, Luke & James compare the source material to the film adaptation and ultimately decide which is the better version. Topics: Alec Baldwin as a leading man, Sean Connery's toupee, a stellar cast that might not get a chance to shine, some smart simplifying of the plot, Jack Ryan's expanded role, and the final vote on which is better: the book or the movie! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilmInk to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Tom Clancy was one of America's bestselling authors of all time, and his character Jack Ryan has cemented a place in pop culture, but how did he get his start, and what's his lasting legacy? In episode 161, Luke & James go back to the beginning of the storied career with the book that started an empire and popularized the techno-thriller for mainstream audiences. Topics: Soviet stereotypes, American exceptionalism, mountains of naval research, how much detail is too much detail, the American James Bond, why Tom Clancy never served in the military, capitalism vs. socialism, how 2020 has changed everything, the Reagan-era every-man, and the Marty Stu/Mary Sue debate. Join next week for the 1990 film adaptation by John McTiernan, starring Sean Connery and Alec Baldwin! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Cinderella is an ancient story, but the most well-known literary version is the tale by The Mother Goose AKA Charles Perrault, first published in the late 1600s. But what does it have in common with a Whitney Houston and Brandy led Cinderella musical adaptation from the 90s? In episode 160, Marci & Ako of the Colored Pages Book Club podcast join Luke & James to discuss the fairy tale genre staple, revisit a childhood classic, and laugh about all the weirdness the Brothers Grimm managed to bring into their version of the story. Topics: Rodger and Hammerstein's Cinderella's puzzling absence from Disney Plus, some dubious "morals" included in the original, how best to treat the evil stepsisters, an unexplained fairy godmother, the value of a fantasy world without racism, the narrative role of the music in musicals, and the unique intersection of class, gender, and race. Plus, a final vote on which was better: the story or the film! Colored Pages Book Club: https://www.thesecoloredpages.com/Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Does Jaws 2 live up to its classic predecessor or sink into bad sequel territory? Does it have anything to do with Peter Benchley's novel? James reacts to his first time watching the movie in a discussion that touches on "Sharknado," "Alien," "The Fast and the Furious," and more in this former Patreon-exclusive episode! Become a Patron to listen to more content like this! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Email address: [email protected] Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com

Author, voice actor, audiobook narrator, and podcast host J. S. Arquin joins to discuss James McTeigue's adaptation of Alan Moore and David Lloyd's comic series. In episode 159, Luke, James, and J. S. discuss this classic antifa tale on the eve of the 2020 American Presidential Election. Topics: What it is like covering this project in the midst of the American election, Alan Moore's issues with the adaptation, the Wachowski Sisters influence, Natalie Portman's stronger version of Evey Hammond, defanged fascism, the Guy Fawkes explanation, a stronger focus on collective action, Hugo Weaving's acting from inside the mask, a third act dramatic change, and a final vote on which was better: the comic or the movie! Follow J. S. Arquin: www.arquinworlds.com Listen to Luke Elliott's short story "They Come From the Void" on The Overcast Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

V, the romantic anarchist, incites revolution in a fictional future dystopian England with many striking similarities to our very real present in America. In episode 158, Luke & James revisit the work of the legendary Alan Moore, paired with David Lloyd, as a young Moore begins to cement his legacy in comics. Topics: a reaction to Thatcherism, anarchy as a political idea, Alan Moore's massive influence, the story behind the Guy Fawkes mask, what it's like having a severely mentally disturbed leader, the choice to have a detective as a primary character, V's ethically dubious gambit with Evey Hammond, a character voice that Luke absolutely hated, potential dangers of extremism, and not letting the citizens who supported fascism off the hook. This Vicious Cabaret Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Writer Remy Nakamura returns to discuss the final five episodes of Misha Green's HBO series adaptation of Matt Ruff's novel. In episode 157, Luke, James, and Remy explore the many lessons this ambitious, genre-bending show has to teach. Episodes covered: "Meet Me in Daegu" "I Am." "Jig-a-Bobo" "Rewind 1921" "Full Circle" Topics: the history of tentacle porn, a mea culpa by Misha Green about Yahima, the shield that protects white people from truly understanding Emmitt Till's story, a powerful depiction of the Tulsa Race Massacre, HBO's role in education, the importance of Black heritage, the only way to combat white supremacy, and a difficult final vote on which version of this story is best! Follow Remy Nakamura on Twitter (@remymura) Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Writer and friend of the show Remy Nakamura joins to weigh in on the second half of Matt Ruff's novel, his own relationship to H. P. Lovecraft's work, and shout out some other amazing authors worth checking out if you want more socially-conscious cosmic horror. In episode 156, Luke, James, and Remy react to the conclusion of this uniquely American tale of monsters, magic, and hate. Chapters covered: "Hippolyta Disturbs the Universe" "Jeckyl in Hyde Park" "The Narrow House" "Horace and the Devil Doll" "The Mark of Cain" Topics: Remy's introduction to Lovecraft's purple prose, the Tulsa Massacre appearing in fiction, obstacles preventing Black people from pursuing astronomy in the 50s, Caleb Braithwhite's need for control, something fiction does better than film, a Mormonism connection, and whether the book succeeds in its effort to tie racism to cosmic horror. Join them next week when Remy returns to discuss the last five episodes of Lovecraft Country on HBO! Follow Remy Nakamura on Twitter (@remymura) Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Misha Green helms the HBO adaptation of Matt Ruff's novel starring Jurnee Smollett, Jonathan Majors, Wunmi Mosaku, and Michael K Williams in a show that has purpose. In episode 155, Luke & James unpack what they can from the first five entries of this important and timely series. Episodes covered: "Sundown" "Whitey's on the Moon" "Holy Ghost" "A History of Violence" "Strange Case" Topics: what makes this series so notable, the James Baldwin connection, a Buffy comparison, the handling of the supernatural elements, expectations messing with you, the purpose of having a modern soundtrack, the role of artists in repressed societies, big adaptation changes with the primary Braithwhite character, a powerful thought experiment, and what role the supernatural will play in the story going forward. Join Ink to Film next week when they finish out Matt Ruff's novel! Lovecraft Country Radio Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Matt Ruff inverts the inherent racism of Lovecraft's fiction by tying it to white supremacy in this supernatural horror novel about America's racist history. In episode 154, Luke & James take their first few steps into the unimaginable horror lurking in the era of Jim Crow laws. Sections covered: "Lovecraft Country" "Dreams of the Which House" "Abdullah's Book" Topics: the very real horrors of racism, doing the necessary work for representation in your fiction, the first conversation Matt Ruff had with Misha Green and Jordan Peele, white privilege as magic, the additional weight authority gives to racist harassment, the X-Files connection with the story seed, winning over a prejudiced ghost, the book heist caper, and some predictions about where the story might go from here. Join them next week when they discuss the first five episodes of Lovecraft Country on HBO! How to do representation right: www.writingtheother.com Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Was this 1978 animated film inspiration for Peter Jackson's trilogy? Does this original adaptation of J. R. R. Tolkien's work hold up today? On this (former patreon-exclusive) episode Luke and James recount the experience of watching this rotoscoped film as first time viewers in the modern day. Become a Patron to listen to even more content like this! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Email address: [email protected] Sign up for Ink to Film's Newsletter Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads

Charlie Kaufman's dreamlike adaptation of Iain Reid's psychological horror novel makes for intriguing viewing, using the language of cinema to introduce a critique of our obsession with both entertainment and outside validation into a story already brimming with existential despair. In episode 153, Luke & James do their best to interpret this impressionist work of art. SPOILERS BEGIN: 16:07 Topics: Jesse Plemons as Jake, Jessie Buckley as the ideal, Toni Collette & David Thewlis stealing scenes, dream-logic, mysteriously motivated cameras, the meaning of the movie within the movie, a fundamental change in the janitor's character, whether or not it is true that young is better, and finally they each vote on which was better: the book or the movie! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Iain Reid's debut combines an insightful literary take on a relationship with creeping dread and psychological horror to make I'M THINKING OF ENDING THINGS a dark and memorable read. In episode 152, Luke & James first give a spoiler-free recommendation, then peel away at all the secrets the book holds. SPOILERS BEGIN: 16:51 Topics: varying reader appetites, a rare restart, a strong content warning, the creepiest details, memory as fiction, the reason people seek out relationships, an unsettling return home, strong IT vibes, and a great debate about the ending. Join them next week for Charlie Kaufman's film adaptation (now on Netflix) starring Jesse Plemons, Jessie Buckley, Toni Collette, and David Thewlis! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Philip K. Dick returns to the show with what might be his strongest story yet with "Second Variety," but how does the adaptation by Christian Duguay stack up? In episode 151, Luke & James smoke some anti-radiation cigs and set off into the wastes to hunt some deadly machines. Topics: Peter Weller AKA Robocop himself as Hendrickson, a swiss-army knife character, cold war era anxieties, secret Terminator inspiration, PKD's signature woman-character revisited, a remarkably unsexy onscreen kiss, teaching machines how to… you know, and a final vote deciding which was better: the short story or the movie! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

After covering 58 different book-to-film adaptations over 3 years and 150 episodes, Luke and James try to answer these questions: "What have you learned about adaptations?" "How has covering adaptations made you better artists?" "What are your favorite projects you've covered?" Come join in the fun as they take a moment to reflect on 3 years of podcasting! Become a Patron to access exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@inktofilm) Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads

Greg Rucka wrote both the comic and the screenplay for its adaptation, helping to ensure a faithful product made it to screen, but how did Gina Prince-Bythewoods' Netflix original film end up comparing? In episode 150, Luke & James debate the nuances of both mediums, and try to determine where the story shines brightest. SPOILERS BEGIN: 28:53 Topics: an awakened interest, familiar with a twist, a comic n00b reacts to Leandro Fernández's gorgeous work, Charlize Theron the action star, debate over what makes a movie a "superhero movie," a convincing argument for the pain of immortal life, a love for the ages that made the leap from page to screen, the meaning of Scythian, what disagreement brings to the show, and a final vote on which was better: the comic or the movie! Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Rob Reiner directed a cult classic that's also probably one of the top 3 most quotable films of all time, memorably bringing William Goldman's magnum opus to life. In episode 149, Luke & James enjoy their adventure with Inigo, Fezzik, Westley, and Buttercup, before casting their vote on which was better: the book or the movie. Topics: 3 years of podcasting, finding the perfect tone, a difference in frame, S. Morgenstern's reduced role, Mandy Patinkin's personal connection to his role, Andre the Giant on set stories, Wallace Shawn's iconic voice, Robin Wright's magnetism, Cary Elwes' as the swashbuckling Westley, Rob Reiner's range, which poison cup you should choose, what makes for good action choreography, and a surprising final vote. Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

So much of what makes THE PRINCESS BRIDE a cult classic comes straight out of William Goldman's novel, but is it worth reading for die hard fans? Or if you're on the fence about the movie, could it help make you into a fan? In episode 148, Luke & James try to separate fact from fiction in this classic fantasy tale. Topics: the role of S. Morgenstern, reading "Buttercup's Baby," how much the movie owes to the book, Stephen King as a character, a problem with epic fantasy, the real life tragedy behind Inigo Montoya's mission, Fezzik as a Greek God, obsession over physical appearance, revisiting the work after many years, and daring to try a new ending. And come back next week when they get into the Rob Reiner film starring Mandy Patinkin, Andre the Giant, Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, and Wallace Shawn! Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

What did the original adaptation of Stephen King's PET SEMATARY get right about the source material? Check out this (former patreon-exclusive) episode to find out! Luke & James have a ton of fun with this version and they breakdown each character and performance, comparing the 80s versions to their 2019 counterparts. Become a Patron to listen to even more content like this! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Email address: [email protected] Sign up for Ink to Film's Newsletter Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads

July 2020 Adaptation News Sources: Neil Gaiman on Sandman (Netflix) 3 New Stephen King Adaptations Are Now In The Works Junji Ito on Adapting Stephen King Junji Ito Tomie Adaptation Junji Ito Uzamaki Adaptation Junji Ito Working With Hideo Kojima New Mutants Comic-Con Teaser: https://youtu.be/e-6FGEOTTeU Utopia Teaser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfMBkiPFh-k Lovecraft Country Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvamPJp17Ds Luke & James Ghost stories time code: 25:11 ------------- Become a Patron to get news episodes early: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Intro/outro music: SoundEffectsFactory

Author and educator Dr. Michael Arnzen returns to urge everyone to think critically about William Friedkin's THE EXORCIST, a movie he says tries to discourage you from doing just that. In episode 147, Luke, James, and Mike explore the "Scariest Movie of All Time" adapted from William Peter Blatty's iconic novel. Topics Include: the movie's supposed curse as possible marketing, whether Friedkin gets enough respect, supernaturalism vs. realism, the echoes of the Civil Rights Movement of the 60s, the parallel narrative of Father Karras, Linda Blair's injuries from a "tyrant" on set, religion vs. science, the film's position in Horror canon, and what makes some stories catch on when similar contemporaries don't. Michael Arnzen Studies in the Horror Film: The Exorcist (Centipede Press, 2012): http://www.centipedepress.com/studieshorror/exorcist.html Proverbs for Monsters by Michael Arnzen https://amzn.to/39yqvpx Follow Michael Arnzen on twitter: www.twitter.com/mikearnzen Ink to Film Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Torin - Tubular Bells No copyright / Royalty free sound

Pazuzu commands YOU to listen (to this discussion of William Peter Blatty's infamous book about demon possession). In episode 145, Luke & James discuss whether the source material lives up to the claim on the cover that it is, "The most terrifying novel ever written." Topics: real life exorcisms, a genre-defining tale, writing from a place of truth, the skeptic perspective, using "real" horrors, a serpentine penis, the power of coincidence, the fear of women's sexuality, and the real-life basis for Fr. Lankester Merrin. Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Torin - Tubular Bells No copyright / Royalty free sound

Academy-award winning director Bong Joon-Ho made a genre-bending adaptation of Jacques Lob & Jean-Marc Rochette's Le Transperceneige, AKA "Snowpiercer: The Escape," and the result is really something to behold. In episode 144, join Luke & James as they climb aboard and discuss both the nihilistic source and the high-octane adaptation. Movie discussion begins: 33:26 Topics Include: the translation of an important French comic, the merits of a black & white art style, Mama the synthetic meat monster, the hopeless absurdity of existence on display, Bong Joon-Ho's impressive filmography, a taste of Korean film, the pros and cons of Chris Evans as Curtis Everett, how plot holes are beside the point, the cutting of the fish lie, Luke's "Kronole theory," more than just a critique of capitalism, and a final vote on which was better: the book or the movie. Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Ross Bugden

Barry Jenkins, fresh off the success of Moonlight, adapted James Baldwin's "If Beale Street Could Talk" into an evocative, gorgeous, and emotionally raw film. Black Love takes center stage as Tish and Fonny struggle to live in a society that is trying to crush them. In episode 143, Luke & James discuss filmmaking techniques, behind the scenes insights, and the political climate of today's similarities to that of the material. Topic Include: What makes a Barry Jenkins film, a lesson on mise-en-scène, a Dave Franco debate, a problem with lighting in Hollywood, the slap, Regina King delivers the goods, the pros/cons of acting classes, and what Fonny's sculpture might mean, and a clever change at the very end. Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Referenced article: "What Barry Jenkins Missed in His Adaptation of If Beale Street Could Talk" Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Ross Bugden

James Baldwin puts Black love front and center in a romance set in Harlem and struggling to persist against systematic oppression, false accusations, and personal tragedy. In episode 142, join Luke & James as they educate themselves with a story written over 45 years ago, yet seems somehow ripped from the headlines of today. Topics include: Love as a force for change, Baldwin's issue with religion, the problem of white innocence, empathy through art, Baldwin's voice in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, the efficacy of a first-person narrator, how false confessions happen, and the ways that our bodies can define our identities. Join us next week for the film directed by Barry Jenkins starring Kiki Layne, Stephen James, and Regina King. James Baldwin's Pin Drop speech "How James Baldwin's Writings About Love Evolve" by Dagmawi Woubshet Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Ross Bugden

Look at me. Barry Sonnenfeld managed to adapt Elmore Leonard's novel "Get Shorty" into a fun gangster crime-thriller comedy that's also a satire of the entire film industry. John Travolta, Gene Hackman, Rene Russo, Delroy Lindo, Danny Devito, and James Gandolfini shine as they are caught up in Chili Palmer's orbit. In episode 141, Luke & James take a ride in a minivan into Hollywood in the 90s. Topics: a surprise Gandolfini, stars playing against type, the value of a faithful adaptation, the "Touch of Evil" love connection, the "joke" title origins, and a vote on which was better: the book or the movie. Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Godfather – UniversalFreeBeats

The "Dickens of Detroit," Elmore Leonard, crafts an ambitious crime story about a fish-out-of-water gangster that plays with metafiction and postmodernism. In episode 140, join Luke & James as they follow Chili Palmer's adventures in Hollywood trying to get involved in the movie business. Topics: the Tarantino feels, the power of a calm badass, the Literary Lineage of Elmore Leonard, a master of dialogue, avoiding writing that sounds like writing, the Godfather & Scarface similarities, an unexpected exploration of toxic masculinity, and the dream of Hollywood. Join them next week for their episode on the film starring John Travolta, Gene Hackman, Rene Russo, and Danny DeVito! Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Godfather – UniversalFreeBeats

Philip K. Dick's short story "We Can Remember It For You Wholesale" was adapted by Paul Verhoeven in 1990 into a full-tilt Arnold Schwarzenegger flick filled with so much social satire and action-movie camp that it was bursting at the seams (just like the characters!). Join Luke & James in episode 139 as they explore the short story that started it all before strapping in for the madness of Verhoeven's classic. Topics: Nose injections, PKD misogyny, PKD iconic ideas, Benny being more than the sacrificial lamb, self-aware action tropes, Rob Bottin's amazing VFX, who else but Arnold, the Red Faction video games, was it all a dream, and which was better--the story or the movie? Listen to Black Chick Lit! https://www.blackchicklit.com Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Ross Bugden – Revelation

Ways to Help: https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/ Black Lives Matter: https://blacklivesmatter.com/ Bail Funds: https://www.communityjusticeexchange.org/nbfn-directory

Widely considered one of the best films of all time, winner of all five major academy awards, and chosen for preservation in the National Film Registry, Miloš Forman's ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST is a masterpiece by most standards, but how does it compare to Ken Kesey's novel it was based on? In episode 138, Luke and James weigh-in early on which was the superior version, then discuss what makes this movie so notable. Topics: another way to read the source material, security vs. freedom, what makes the film "American", Jack Nicholson's unique talent on display in McMurphy, the refreshing lack of voice over, the stuff of movie-legend, and the moment Nurse Ratched reveals her true colors. Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Niklas Drude - Funeral March

The Magic Trip comes to an end with the second half of Ken Kesey's novel, ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST—but how the experience hold up? In episode 137, Luke & James unpack the messages behind the novel that went on to inspire a classic film. Topics include: Ken Kesey's writing career after his famous escapades, what makes the book postmodern, equating masculinity with freedom, deep-sea shenanigans, gallows humor facing electro shock, and the dangers of the people in power defining what's "different." Join them next week for their discussion of the film starring Jack Nicholson, Danny DeVito, and more! Ken Kesey documentary: Tripping Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Niklas Drude - Funeral March

Ken Kesey is an author with a far-reaching legacy, but it all began with the publication and immediate success of ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST. In episode 136, Luke & James take a psychedelic trip on a school bus across time as they explore Ken Kesey's effect on the counterculture movement of the 1960s in America before discussing the first half of his debut novel. Topics include: Electric Shock Therapy in pop culture, the dangers of tying personal freedom to masculinity, the "Merry Pranksters," "Further," Dean Cassadey, Acid Tests, project MKUltra, psychedelic mind expansion, writing what you know, unreliable/unlikable characters, and the Grateful Dead house band. Join them next week for their discussion of the second half of the novel, followed by the film starring Jack Nicholson! Ken Kesey documentary: Tripping Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Niklas Drude - Funeral March

Richard Matheson's original post-apocalyptic tale I AM LEGEND laid the foundation for the zombie fiction of today in a book that some regard as the "first modern horror novel." But how does Frances Lawrence's film adaptation hold up by comparison? In episode 135, things get a little too real as Luke & James discuss fictional pandemics while living through a real-life one with Covid-19. Topics: The dog disclaimer, Luke's waterworks report, Will Smith's unavoidable charisma, keeping up with dental health, a theory about two movies crammed into one, and an unwelcome car commercial. The Science Behind the Movie (featuring Dr. Anthony Fauci): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl2kJULFpxQ Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro/outro music: Ross Bugden

Author Caitlin Starling joins to discuss "The Silence of the Lambs" and cast her vote for which was better: the film directed by Jonathan Demme or Thomas Harris's novel. In episode 134, Luke, James, and Caitlin discuss one of history's most notable horror films and the introduction of the iconic Dr. Hannibal Lector as portrayed by Sir Anthony Hopkins. Topics: The Luminous Dead x Silence of the Lambs connection, Caitlin's impressive knowledge about serial killers, Anthony Hopkins acting with his eyeballs, Clarice Starling as audience stand-in, issues with transphobia, FBI public relations, and unpacking winged-symbols throughout! Find Caitlin online: www.caitlinstarling.com Caitlin's Twitter: @see_starling Buy The Luminous Dead Become a patron for access to exclusive episodes! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

Thomas Harris introduced readers to Dr. Hannibal Lecter in his novel RED DRAGON, but the world at large met one of cinema's greatest killers with the release of "The Silence of the Lambs" by Jonathan Demme. Join Luke & James in episode 133 as they go back to the source for the iconic movie and see what horrors are lurking in its pages. Topics: Dinner with Thomas Harris, the real world Hannibal Lecter, feminism and transphobia, the craft into making the monster, the power of a great title, and some small but significant changes. And come back next week when they get into the novel starring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins! Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content www.patreon.com/inktofilm Send Feedback: [email protected] Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Ross Bugden

"I will not say: do not weep; for not all tears are an evil." Every journey has an end, and at long last, they've come to it with Peter Jackson's THE RETURN OF THE KING. In episode 132, after many hours reading the book, watching the expanded films, and discussing the adaptations for the podcast, it is time to decide once and for all which was better: the books or the movies of THE LORD OF THE RINGS trilogy as a whole? Topics include: LOTR vs. Star Wars, the undead menace, WETA workshop's wizardry, the most metal shit in the movies, a regent who doesn't know how to eat, three scenes that made Luke cry, slow motion endings, and a difficult decision. Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content (including a recent episode on TOLKIEN (2019 film)! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Send Feedback: [email protected] Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Lord Of The Rings - Concerning Hobbits (Ectronic Remix)

A return to the Shire. The final chapter. The end of all things "Lord of the Rings" …well, except for the film, which they are covering next week! Join Luke & James in episode 131 as they say goodbye to one of the most beloved fantasy series of all time, yet debate whether it truly deserves the high praise it often receives. Also discussed: Michael Moorcock's "Epic Pooh", the value of the appendices, what Tolkien's legacy is with regards to modern fantasy, more great quotes, the philosophy of the LOTR, the value of mercy, the Eagles plot hole, the nature of return to status quo endings, and whether or not Arwen and Aragorn's relationship could've been a little more integrated in the story. Chapters covered: Ch. 4 The Field of Cormallen Ch. 5 The Steward and the King Ch. 6 Many Partings Ch. 7 Homeward Bound Ch. 8 The Scouring of the Shire Ch. 9 The Grey Havens Appendices! Epic Pooh Ted Chiang's Q & A Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Send Feedback: [email protected] Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Lord Of The Rings - Concerning Hobbits (Ectronic Remix)

What is the greatest line in all of "The Lord of the Rings" and therefore a contender for the greatest line in all of fantasy? In episode 130, Luke proposes one possibility. Also discussed: Sauron's presence felt in some unexpected places, living day to day with a drawn sword, Aragorn's fulfilment of prophecy, dabbling in some allegory, a questions about Gollum, the trials of Mordor, and how JRR Tolkien's history fighting in the first World War and living through WWII may have impacted his writing of LOTR. Chapters discussed: Ch. 7 The Pyre of Denethor Ch. 8 The Houses of Healing Ch. 9 The Last Debate Ch. 10 The Black Gate Opens Book 6 Ch. 1 The Tower of Cirith Ungul Ch. 2 The Land of Shadow Ch. 3 Mount Doom Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Send Feedback: [email protected] Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Lord Of The Rings - Concerning Hobbits (Ectronic Remix)

"Oft hope is born when all is forlorn." Tolkien speaks to us from another age, when the world had just begun to recover from a terrible darkness. Join Luke & James as they look for a little hope of their own as they kick off the final installment of their Lord of the Rings trilogy of projects with the first 6 chapters of THE RETURN OF THE KING. In episode 129, they discuss living with the threat of the coronavirus/Covid 19, the value of having a Hobbit along in a fight, the over-due badassery of Eowyn, Denethor's chances at Father of the Year, and Théoden's penchant for epic speeches. Chapters discussed: Ch. 1 Minas Tirith Ch. 2 The Passing of the Grey Company Ch. 3 The Muster of Rohan Ch. 4 The Siege of Gondor Ch. 5 The Ride of the Rohirrim Ch. 6 The Battle of Pelennor Fields Become a Patron to listen to exclusive content! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Send Feedback: [email protected] Ink to Film's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Feedback: [email protected] Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Music: Lord Of The Rings - Concerning Hobbits (Ectronic Remix)

It's time to explore the original adaptation of Ray Bradbury's classic novel as directed by François Truffaut. James takes this opportunity to educate Luke about the "French New Wave" movement in cinema. They also discuss reality TV, the role of genre fiction, and more in this former patron-exclusive episode. The 2018 HBO adaptation also comes up—so which was the better version? Listen to find out! Become a Patron to listen to even more content like this! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Email address: [email protected] Sign up for Ink to Film's Newsletter Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads

The hunt is on for the monster in both the second half of Stephen King's novel and the last five episodes of the HBO series, and things are changing because of it—for better or worse. In episode 128, Luke and James compare the adaptation to the source before deciding once and for all which version was better: the book or the show! Episodes covered: 6. "The One about the Yiddish Vampire" 7. "In the Pines. In the Pines." 8. "Foxhead" 9. "Tigers and Bears" 10. "Must/Can't" Unlock exclusive content/rewards: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film is on YouTube! Email address: [email protected] Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro Music: Ross Bugden

The Doppelgänger, the Evil Twin, el Coco, Bogeyman, Vardyger, the Sack Man, and on the list goes outlining this mirror self. The twin stranger is a long-standing myth and fear, and The Outsider on HBO has brought that terror to life. In episode 127, Luke and James discuss how Stephen King's work is in good hands with Richard Price, who is crafting an oppressive crime/horror drama that is not to be missed. This episode covers the first five of the series: "Fish in a Barrel" "Roanoke" "Dark Uncle" "Que Viene el Coco" "Tear-Drinker" Join Ink to Film again next week for last first 5 episodes and the second half of the novel! Unlock exclusive content/rewards: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film is on YouTube! Email address: [email protected] Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro Music: Ross Bugden

The King proves he still has it (as if anyone doubted) with a doppelgänger tale like no other. He blends True Crime with the supernatural to create something that feels fresh yet remains solidly Stephen King. In episode 126, Luke and James return to the master of horror with the first half of the novel--the beginning of a 3-week excursion into the unknown. Spoilers Begin: 32:19 Questions: The popularity of True Crime, the validity of audio books, the deeper meaning behind a doppelgänger, the damage of false accusations, ageism in art, a possible misstep, mastery of the medium, and what makes a quality adaptation. Join Ink to Film again next week for the first 5 episodes of The Outsider on HBO starring Jason Bateman and Ben Mendelson! Unlock exclusive content/rewards: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film is on YouTube! Email address: [email protected] Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro Music: Ross Bugden

Where did the prequel to John Carpenter's 80s classic go right and where did it go wrong? How does Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.'s film hold up? Does it have anything in common with the original source novella, "Who Goes There?" Give this (former patron-exclusive) episode a try as Ink to Film experiments with their first adaptation-adjacent coverage! Become a Patron to listen to even more content like this! www.patreon.com/inktofilm Email address: [email protected] Sign up for Ink to Film's Newsletter Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads

Former Ringling Bros. circus clown, writer, and co-host of the "Writing Easy" podcast Mary Mascari joins the show to give some important context to all-things circus for Frances Lawrence's adaptation of Sara Gruen's novel! In episode 125, Mary, Luke, and James cast their votes to determine once and for all which was better, the book or the movie? Topics include: setting the record straight, leading off with ageism, which performance outshined all the others, how much water an elephant drinks, and a final vote to decide which version is superior. Follow Mary Mascari: www.twitter.com/geekymary Listen to Luke's appearance on the "Writing Easy" podcast Become a Patron & unlock exclusive content/rewards, including our brand new "Book Club" tier: www.patreon.com/inktofilm Ink to Film is on YouTube! Email address: [email protected] Sign up for Ink to Film's Newsletter Follow Ink to Film on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Home Base: inktofilm.com Ink to Film Book Club on Goodreads Intro Music "Ghibli Waltz": Ross Bugden