The Envelope

TV reporter Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) interviews both Matthew Rhys and Keri Russell, who play Russian spies Philip and Elizabeth Jennings in the FX show The Americans. The pair separately discusses the shows many Emmy nominations and the many emotions felt while filming the final season. They also touch on how the 1980's show about the Cold War went from period piece to contemporary flashpoint.

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) is joined by film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and writers Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) to discuss the new and controversial Popular Film category announced by The Academy. They also break down their favorite summer movies.Then, writer Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) interviews the co-creators of Netflix's GLOW to talk all about the show.

After some time off, The Reel is back!This week film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and reporters Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) discuss the movies Crazy Rich Asians and BlacKkKlansman with host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus). They discuss the importance of the films in their respective communities and the film world at large, as well as the genre-bending techniques each uses to stand out from the crowd.Then, reporter Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) interviews The Handmaid's Tale show runner, Bruce Miller.

Host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with writer Kristine McKenna about the process of writing Room to Dream, a new book that she co-wrote with David Lynch.Room to Dream is part biography and part memoir of David Lynch. Due to this unconventional format, it offers a unique window into his singular vision for his life and art.

Hear our reactions to this year's Emmys nominations and our team's predictions for who might win the night's most coveted awards. TV writer Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) and critic Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) join Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) to discuss the different categories and talk about what else to expect as we prepare for the 2018 Emmy Awards.

A number of recent television shows, including the second seasons of “GLOW” and “The Handmaid’s Tale” and the premieres of “Sharp Objects” and “Dietland,” have dealt with female empowerment and rage in fresh and innovative ways, grappling with the roles set out for women in society. There’s also been a behind-the-scenes analogue for many of these shows as well, with women often in roles of creative control. Times TV reporter Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy), television critic Lorraine Ali (@loraineali) and resident wrestling enthusiast Jen Yamato (@jenyamato) join Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) for a conversation on these exciting turns both in front of and behind the camera.

As there has been increased attention given to issues of representation, inclusion and diversity regarding what goes on-screen and who is involved in making the movies that we see, there has also recently been a parallel conversation gaining momentum with regards to the media itself. Who are the people who write the reviews, cover the red carpets, attend the film festivals and how do their perspectives impact how movies are discussed and received? From the LA Times film team, Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson), Jen Yamato (@JenYamato), Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) get into the nuance of what this all means for the media and the reviews and coverage of films such as “Sicario: Day of the Soldado,” “Nancy,” “Sorry To Bother You,” “Ocean’s 8” and “BlacKkKlansman.”

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) brings in reporters Jen Yamato (@JenYamato), Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA), and Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) to talk about Netflix's recent wave of new romantic comedies. Focusing on the films Set It Up, The Kissing Booth, and Ibiza, the group discusses the timeless appeal of romcoms, why they are the perfect movies for summer, and how these type of movies and their inherent charm let actors become stars.

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) interviews co-creator and showrunner of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Aline Brosh McKenna (@alinebmckenna). They discuss the dark, emotional places that emerge in the show's third season and talk about what's next for Rebecca Bunch.

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) speaks to Academy Award-Winning Documentarian Morgan Neville about his most recent film, Won't You Be My Neighbor? The documentary celebrates the life and work of Fred Rogers, best known for his TV program Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. Morgan discusses the use of archival footage and new interviews in his film as well as the overarching theme of both his documentary and Mr. Rogers' program: the idea that culture matters.

As we continue our Emmys season discussion, Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) brings in TV critics Lorraine Ali (@Lorraine Ali) and Robert Lloyd (@LATimesTVLloyd) to talk with TV editor Greg Braxton. They discuss the TV era we're in today, which streaming services are dominating this season, and more.

Emmys Nominations are just around the corner, so host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) spoke with reporters Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) and Libby Hill (@midwestspitfire) about how the awards show has evolved over the years. They discuss if certain show formats are destined to win an Emmy and whether new shows, particularly on streaming services, get an advantage during nominations. To wrap up, the three discuss their personal favorite shows and whether they have a shot.

Two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster has been a presence in the entertainment business for more than fifty years, first as a child actor in films such as “Bugsy Malone” and “Taxi Driver,” then as an adult star in projects like “The Accused” and “The Silence of the Lambs” and later as a director herself. Recently in the LA Times building to promote the episode of the “Black Mirror” anthology she directed, she also stopped by The Reel recording studio to talk with Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) about the sci-fi crime drama “Hotel Artemis,” her first on-screen role in five years.

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks to film reporters Justin Chang (@JustinCChang), Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) about some new movie releases that you should keep an eye out for. And then, we listen in on an interview with Claire Danes about her new movie A Kid Like Jake.

New York Times Bestselling Author of Bachelor Nation and Los Angeles Times reporter Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) talks with Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) about the new season of The Bachelorette. They also discuss what this franchise means for our culture and why this season is different.

Reporter Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) had the chance to interview André Leon Talley the other day. The two spoke about the obstacles Talley has had to overcome in order to become the cultural icon he is today, the most meaningful parts of his career and, briefly, the Met Gala.Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) debriefs this interview with Tre'vell, which serves as a perfect primer to the recently released documentary: The Gospel According to André.

Restaurateur and chef David Chang stopped by The Reel recently for a broad-ranging conversation with Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus). In talking about his Netflix series “Ugly Delicious,” Chang got into how his ideas about food find their way into his own cooking, including at the new Majordomo, his first restaurant in Los Angeles.And, yes, Chang did address the much talked-about review of Majordomo by the LAT’s Jonathan Gold, which is so far the most notable piece of critical writing on the new restaurant – “I don’t even think the Gold review is a bad review,” Chang said before adding, “I’m sure we’re going to be talking about this review forever.”

Reporters Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) and Justin Chang (@JustinChang) have just returned from Cannes Film Festival. They debrief the experience with host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus), talking about the rules on Cannes' uniquely pompous red carpet, the live reaction to BlacKkKlansman, the lingering presence of Harvey Weinstein and an ice cream cooler party.

Host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) about the making of the Deadpool franchise, it's unique marketing techniques, and how this new sequel stands out from the other superhero movies that have come out around the same time.Also, our reporters frankly discuss the difficulties of asking tough questions at movie press stops while surrounded a hyped-up, fan-filled audience.

Donald Glover and Kanye West have almost simultaneously grabbed the national spotlight this past week. Reporter Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) talks with reporters Jen Yamato (@jenyamato) and Chris Barton (@chrisbarton) about the interwoven personas of Donald Glover and Childish Gambino, what questions Glover's new 'This is America' music video asks and how, if at all, he's connected to Kanye West's recent incendiary comments.

Did Michelle Wolf go too far or did she do her job? Were there any jokes about Sarah Huckabee Sanders' looks? What is the future of the White House Correspondents' Dinner?Led by Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy), reporters Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli), Chris Barton (@chrisbarton) and Greg Braxton discuss the controversy that ensued after Michelle Wolf's standup at this year's Correspondents' Dinner.

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers!Reporters Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) and Sonaiya Kelley (@sonaiyak) sit down with film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and film writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) to talk about the latest Marvel film, Avengers: Infinity War. They discuss how the film integrated the Black Panther story line, whether you need to be a die-hard Marvel fan to enjoy the movie and how a few shocking end twists might affect the future of Marvel movies.

Our reporters recap the powerful first season of The Handmaid's Tale, discuss and analyze the first few episodes of Season 2, and begin to determine how this equally impactful season might connect to recent real events.Featuring reporters Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) and Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy), editor Mary McNamara (@MaryMacTV), and host and film writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus).

The year 1968 was one of cultural and political turmoil. To mark the year's significance, the L.A. Times published a package of stories and interviews on the various films, events and individuals that made the year so memorable. As part of this package, film reporter Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) spoke to filmmaker Michel Hazanavicius, an Oscar-winner for his film The Artist, about his film Godard Mon Amour.

Our reporters discuss the most talked about performance at Coachella: Beyoncé's 2 hour set. They also predict what you can expect to see this upcoming weekend for round 2 of "Beychella".Featuring reporters Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus), Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) and Gerrick Kennedy (@GerrickKennedy).

One of the most talked about shows on social media is coming to an end. Tune in to hear entertainment reporters Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) and Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) talk with editor Mary McNamara (@MaryMacTV) and writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) about the show's legacy, it's revolutionary audience engagement and it's tackling of contemporary issues. Also, hear from the stars of the show and creator Shonda Rhimes as they reminisce before the big finale.

What should we make of the new Roseanne reboot? What about this moment in time has caused it to soar in popularity? And is it worth a watch?Reporters and TV critics Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli), Yvonne Villareal (@villarrealy), Greg Braxton, Mary McNamara (@marymacTV) and Robert Lloyd (@LATimesTVLloyd) talk with Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) about what they make of this TV phenomenon.

Four of the movies released this week: Blockers, A Quiet Place, You Were Never Really Here and The Endless, all have notable storylines and directors. Film reporters Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) talk with film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) about what makes these movies significant, why you should be looking out for these directors and which of these movies you should watch this weekend.The conversation is moderated by film reporter Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus).

Since its debut, Isle of Dogs has been met with controversy over the question of the film's cultural appropriation and seemingly inexplicable setting in a future Japan. Our film critic, Justin Chang (@JustinCChang), tackled this problem and eloquently asked in his review, "does this white American filmmaker's highly selective, idiosyncratic rendering of an East Asian society constitute a sincere act of homage, or a clueless failure of sensitivity?"In response to Chang's review, and Jen Yamato's (@JenYamato) subsequent discussions about the film on social media, Wes Anderson critics and fans have fought tirelessly over these questions, debating the relationship between appropriation and creative freedom.Should the movie--like the dogs in it--be sent to Trash Island? Our reporters will debate this question, with Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) moderating, on this week's episode of The Reel.

The Los Angeles Times Emmy Contender Chats have begun! The first interviews of the series featured the cast of Outlander. TV reporter Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) spoke with with Sam Heughan (Jamie Fraser) and Caitriona Balfe (Claire Fraser) about portraying their characters' grief, gaining inspiration from the novels and more on the latest season.Listen to clips from the interviews as Mark Olsen of Indie Focus (@IndieFocus) talks to Yvonne about Emmys season and Outlander's cult status.To see the full interviews with Claire, Sam and other Emmy contenders, go to latimes.com.

Join Assistant Managing Editor of Arts & Entertainment Mary McNamara (@marymacTV), TV critic Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli), entertainment reporter Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) and TV writer Meredith Blake (@MeredithBlake) as they discuss the realities of being a female director in television.Our group of reporters will ask many questions of the TV industry, like: why is TV such fertile ground for female directors? How is Jessica Jones breaking the mold? What really is the male gaze--and how do we start representing the female gaze?**This podcast is supported by HBO. Watch the premiere of Barry this Sunday March 25th on HBO.

For our last Oscars-centric episode this season, Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) talks to Justin Chang (@JustinCChang), Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp), Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) and Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) about their experiences covering the Academy Awards last Sunday.From the red carpet to star-studded after parties to cheers and gasps in the press pit, these reporters saw and heard it all.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get The Shape of Water and many other Award-winning films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Hear directly from L.A. Times entertainment reporters about how they cover the biggest night in Hollywood. Arts and film writer Jeffrey Fleishman (@JeffreyLA), film reporter Josh Rottenberg (@joshrottenberg) and Hollywood writer Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) discuss where they were last year when the La La Land/Moonlight fiasco happened, why Warren Beatty refused to let go of the envelope and what we might expect from this year's ceremony.Also, hear from Assistant Managing Editor Mary Mcnamara (@marymacTV) and Glenn Weiss, the director of the Oscars ceremony.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Get Out and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) sits down with Oscar nominated director Greta Gerwig to discuss her film, Lady Bird. In this exclusive interview they discuss various filmmaking topics, including the history of female directors, the role of spirituality in Lady Bird and the importance of fonts.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Lady Bird and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) talks to awards show reporter Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) and film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) about the Best Director category. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Coco and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) moderates a noteworthy conversation between Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp), Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) as they discuss the Best and Supporting Actress categories. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get The Shape of Water and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) leads a smart and energetic discussion between Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp), Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) as they discuss the Best and Supporting Actor categories. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Dunkirk and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go toiTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) moderates a lively conversation between Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson), Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) as they break down their experience at the Sundance Film Festival this year. They discuss and debate standing ovations, documentaries, future Oscar contenders, freezing temperatures and more. **This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Call Me By Your Name and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go toiTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Allison Janney, Willem Dafoe, and Guillermo del Toro react to their Oscar Nominations, recreate where they were when they found out, and explain what their movies mean to them.L.A. Times film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and entertainment reporter Tre’vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) discuss diversity and inclusion—or lack thereof—within the various Oscar categories.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Get Out and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

In the inaugural episode, Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) and Jen Yamato (@jenyamato) discuss #TimesUp and the changing landscape of sexism in Hollywood in a post-Weinstein era.Writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) shares highlights from this year’s star-studded Envelope Roundtables, including moments with Jordan Peele, Jessica Chastain, and Saoirse Ronan.Finally, L.A. Times film critics Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) weigh in with their predictions for nominees in the top categories at the 2018 Oscars, considering the implications certain nominations may have in the current cultural moment**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, The Big Sick, and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.