Welcome to the Following Films Podcast. I’m your host, Chris Maynard, and today we’re diving into a film that’s been buzzing in genre circles for all the right—and very strange—reasons. Before we get started, a quick reminder: if you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to share it with a friend, subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a review. It really helps the show grow and keeps conversations like this one coming your way.
Today’s episode is a really fun one — I got to sit down with Augie Duke to talk about her work on The Workout, but like all good conversations, we ended up going everywhere.
We talk about the fear that creeps in when you become a parent, the joy and tragedy of video stores, pets, and a bunch of other beautifully random things along the way.
Now, full disclosure — this one’s got some real-life texture to it. Augie’s Wi-Fi drops out here and there, so there are a few abrupt edits, and I had the office door open because, you know, life happens — the dogs are making noise, one of my kids and the love of my life walk by. It’s a bit chaotic… and I honestly wouldn’t have it any other way.
So settle in, embrace the imperfections, and enjoy this conversation with Augie Duke.
So today we’re diving into Mulholland Drive — David Lynch’s weird, beautiful, haunting masterpiece. It’s one of those movies that stays with you for days after you watch it. You think you’ve got it figured out, and then you realize… no, you really don’t.
It starts off like this dreamy Hollywood story — a young actress, a mysterious woman with amnesia, a city full of possibility. But as it goes on, things start to shift. The details don’t line up. Time kind of folds in on itself. And by the end, you’re not sure what’s real, what’s imagined, or whose story you’ve even been watching.
That’s what makes Mulholland Drive so fascinating — it’s not really a mystery to solve, it’s more like a dream unraveling. It’s about love, guilt, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive.
In this episode, we’re going to break down that ending — who Diane really is, what the dream means, and how Lynch turns Hollywood itself into this strange, almost spiritual landscape of illusion and despair.
So… let’s open the box and see what’s inside. David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive
Today I'm breaking down one of the most enigmatic endings in horror film history!
The ending of The Shining isn’t just about madness, ghosts, or cabin fever; it’s about consumption. The Overlook Hotel doesn’t merely haunt its guests; it devours them. By the time Jack Torrance swings his axe through the snow-covered halls, he’s no longer a man losing control. He’s a man who’s been completely absorbed by the building itself, body and soul. That’s the real horror of The Shining: evil doesn’t simply kill you, it keeps you.
Today I’m joined by Director and Showrunner Nancy Schwartzman to discuss DEATH IN APARTMENT 603: WHAT HAPPENED TO ELLEN GREENBERG?
The emotional and gripping docuseries investigates the mysterious death of Ellen Greenberg, a 27-year-old Philadelphia schoolteacher found dead in the apartment she shared with her fiancé on a snowy night in January 2011, just seven months before her upcoming wedding. Greenberg sustained 20 knife wounds and had 11 bruises on her body in various stages of healing. To the shock of many who knew her, detectives on the scene treated her death as a suicide; but when her autopsy results came back, her cause of death was ruled a homicide. Shortly thereafter, the manner of death was inexplicably reversed to suicide, and the city of Philadelphia shut the case without further investigation. Now, 14 years later, this three-part series exclusively follows Ellen’s parents, Sandee and Josh Greenberg, as they fight to reopen the investigation and learn the truth about their daughter’s untimely death.
DEATH IN APARTMENT 603: WHAT HAPPENED TO ELLEN GREENBERG?
features more than 20 new interviews with those who knew Greenberg best, including close friends, family members, and her former students and colleagues, painting a portrait of a warm, vibrant young woman who was planning her wedding and deeply loved by those who knew her. The docuseries also grants rare access to Greenberg’s case file, including her fiancé’s frantic 911 call, crime scene photos, autopsy analysis and surveillance footage. Additional new interviews include former neighbors and staff who were present in Greenberg’s apartment building at the time of her death, a former colleague of her fiancé, and attorneys and law enforcement experts. The show delivers an intimate look into Greenberg’s life and a probing examination of the cracks in the system that have left one haunting question unanswered: What really happened to Ellen Greenberg?
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We use Google Workspace to keep things running smoothly and efficiently here at Following Films, and I can’t recommend it enough. Try it for your business and see how it can help you stay organized and connected. If you sign up using my link, you’ll get a discount — and you’ll be supporting the show: https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
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DEATH IN APARTMENT 603: WHAT HAPPENED TO ELLEN GREENBERG?
Is now streaming on HULU
I hope you enjoy the show
Today I’m joined by Sean King O’Grady to discuss his latest project, SUSPICIOUS MINDS
SUSPICIOUS MINDS is a docuseries that investigates the disturbing rise of artificial intelligence as a trigger for delusional thinking.
Through powerful firsthand accounts and in-depth interviews with leading experts in psychiatry, neuroscience, and AI ethics, the series unpacks a growing psychological phenomenon: individuals developing complex, often life-altering delusions rooted in AI technologies. From chatbots to surveillance fears, the show examines how emerging technologies are reshaping the landscape of paranoia and how these modern delusions echo, amplify, and challenge our historical understanding of the human mind.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We use Google Workspace to keep things running smoothly and efficiently here at Following Films, and I can’t recommend it enough. Try it for your business and see how it can help you stay organized and connected. If you sign up using my link, you’ll get a discount — and you’ll be supporting the show: https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
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Suspicious Minds is a weekly video documentary series and podcast that is currently airing..
Platforms include YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Substack, and more. Series One will be released weekly for a total of 8 video and podcast episodes.
Today, I’m joined by two-time Oscar-nominated cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth.
Jeff joins me to talk about his work on Tron: Ares, which is now in theaters. He also shot Amazon’s Being the Ricardos for director Aaron Sorkin, starring Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem. Kidman was so impressed with Jeff’s work that she later asked him to shoot her now-famous AMC Theatres commercial.
We also dive into his long-running collaboration with David Fincher on films like Fight Club, The Social Network, and Gone Girl. Plus, Jeff gives us a glimpse into his latest project — the just-begun follow-up to The Social Network, titled The Social Reckoning. Aaron Sorkin is not only writing but also directing this one, with a stellar cast that includes Jeremy Allen White, Mikey Madison, Jeremy Strong, Betty Gilpin, and Bill Burr.
When I first heard about The Social Reckoning, my initial reaction was, “Why on earth would they make that?” But the more I’ve thought about it, the more I’ve realized it’s an essential story — a vital piece of modern history that deserves to be explored and cemented in the public consciousness.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We use Google Workspace to keep things running smoothly and efficiently here at Following Films, and I can’t recommend it enough. Try it for your business and see how it can help you stay organized and connected. If you sign up using my link, you’ll get a discount — and you’ll be supporting the show: https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
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Tron: Ares is now playing in theaters everywhere. Go see it on the biggest screen you can — it’s an incredible cinematic experience.
I hope you enjoy the conversation.
Today, we’re celebrating a piece of television history. It’s been 25 years since Resurrection Blvd. first hit the airwaves—a groundbreaking series that redefined Latino representation in Hollywood. And now, that legacy is being honored in a big way.
On October 19th, 2025, the Fox Tucson Theatre—the crown jewel of downtown Tucson—will host A Day with Resurrection Blvd: The 25th Anniversary Celebration. Presented by Elephant Scout Films, this one-of-a-kind event brings together cast, crew, and fans for an unforgettable reunion. There’ll be a special screening of the pilot, behind-the-scenes insights, and a live panel moderated by Dan Guerrero, featuring an incredible lineup: Dennis Leoni, Tony Plana, Esai Morales, and Nicholas Gonzalez. Today's guests were involved both in front of and behind the camera on Ressurection Blvd—first up, actor/director Lou Diamond Phillips, then show creator Dennis Leoni.
Lou joins me to talk about his time on Resurrection Blvd., its cultural impact, and what this reunion means to him. We also chat about storytelling, legacy, and the power of authentic representation on screen.
Whether you grew up with the Santiago family or you’re just discovering the series for the first time, this episode is a celebration of community, creativity, and resilience.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. You should try it and see how it can benefit your business as well. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Tickets for A Day With Resurrection Blvd: The 25th Anniversary Celebration are available at www.foxtucson.com/resurrection. Hope to see you there this Sunday, 10/19.
Hey everyone, welcome back to The Following Films Podcast, where we dive into the art, craft, and passion behind the movies. Today I’m joined by Sid Abbruzzi
Water Brothers: The Sid Abbruzzi Story follows the life of surf and skate core legend and cultural icon Sid Abbruzzi, and his commitment to protecting the sports’ history and culture. Through a mix of never-before-seen archival film, large format cinematic footage, and personal interviews from culture giants like Tony Hawk, Shepard Fairey, Selema Masekela and more; we are taken on a journey through surfing and skating history - from 1960s Newport to Santa Cruz, Cocoa Beach, South Africa's Jeffrey's Bay, and beyond.
As Sid approaches the age of 72, the film captures the final days of his famous Water Brothers Surf & Skate shop as it is set to be demolished and the impact it had on the surf and skate community. The documentary emphasizes the importance of memory, personal history, and living in the moment, reminding us to cherish our past and preserve cultural heritage.
Water Brothers: The Sid Abbruzzi Story is a poignant reflection on a life well-lived and a heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of surf culture. It celebrates the individuals and places that transcend surfing and skating from mere hobbies, showing how one man's dedication can inspire an entire community.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. You should try it and see how it can benefit your business as well. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Water Brothers: The Sid Abbruzzi Story is now available on VOD.
Purchase merch from Water Brothers here:
https://www.originalwaterbrothers.com/
More information on the film here:
https://www.waterbrotherfilm.com/
Hey everyone, welcome back to The Following Films Podcast, where we dive into the art, craft, and passion behind the movies.
My guest today is a true legend in the world of action filmmaking. Daniel Bernhardt joins me to discuss his starring role in Steven Kostanski’s reimagining of the Roger Corman B-Movie classic Deathstalker.
The Kingdom of Abraxeon is under siege by the Dreadites, heralds of the long-dead sorcerer Nekromemnon. When Deathstalker recovers a cursed amulet from a corpse-strewn battlefield, he's marked by dark magick and hunted by monstrous assassins. To survive, he must break the curse and face the rising evil. Death is just the beginning… of great adventure!"
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. You should try it and see how it can benefit your business as well. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Deathstalker is now playing theatres everywhere.
Hey everyone, welcome back to The Following Films Podcast, where we dive into the art, craft, and passion behind the movies — and everything that inspires them. I’m your host, Chris Maynard, and today I’m bringing you an interview recorded at this year's Tucson Comic Book Convention.
My guest today is a true legend in the world of comic art — Bill Morrison. You might know Bill as the co-founder of Bongo Comics, the longtime home of The Simpsons and Futurama in print. He’s also worked as an illustrator for Disney classics, served as Executive Editor for MAD Magazine, and created his own acclaimed series like Roswell: Little Green Man and Dead Vengeance.
In our conversation, Bill shares stories from his journey through animation, comics, and publishing — from working alongside Matt Groening to reimagining The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine as a graphic novel. We also discuss the evolution of humor, satire, and storytelling in an era when pop culture is more self-aware than ever.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. You should try it and see how it can benefit your business as well. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Enjoy the show
Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast. Today I’m joined by Steven Feinartz, director of the new documentary film ARE WE GOOD
The film is an intimate portrait of comedian and podcast pioneer Marc Maron, following the sudden loss of his partner and filmmaker Lynn Shelton. Maron struggles with grief, disillusionment, and a shifting comedy landscape. The film features interviews with comics including Nate Bargatze, John Mulaney, David Cross, W. Kamau Bell, and Laurie Kilmartin. As well as WTF podcast footage from his interviews with President Barack Obama, Andrew Garfield, Patton Oswalt and many more.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. You should try it and see how it can benefit your business as well. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Check the show notes for a direct link.
The film is in theaters in NY & LA on October 3rd, with nationwide theatrical events on October 5th & 8t! for showtimes go to https://www.arewegoodmaron.com/
Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast. Today I’m joined by Everett Blunck, star of the new film GRIFFIN IN SUMMER
In the same vein as the Sundance hit Theater Camp, GRIFFIN IN SUMMER revolves around Griffin Nafly, played by breakout star Everett Blunck, who is the most ambitious playwright of his generation. He's also fourteen years old, still living with his exhausted mother in the bland suburb of Borwood, and desperately attempting to self-produce his new divorce drama Regrets of Autumn, starring his unenthusiastic friends. But when Griffin forms a surprise summer friendship with handsome twenty-five-year-old failed performance artist turned handyman Brad, played by Owen Teague, his life (and play) will never be the same.
The festival darling is written & directed by Nicholas Colia, making his impressive feature film debut, and stars young break-out Everett Blunck as well as Owen Teague (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes), Melanie Lynskey (“Yellowjackets”), Abby Ryder Fortson (Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.) and Kathryn Newton (Lisa Frankenstein)
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. You should try it and see how it can benefit your business as well. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Check the show notes for a direct link.
GRIFFIN IN SUMMER is now available on VOD. Now on to my conversation with Everett, I hope you enjoy the show
Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast. Today I’m joined by Waltzing with Brando Cinematographer Garrett O’Brien
Waltzing with Brando follows Hollywood legend Marlon Brando (Billy Zane) at the height of his fame as he dreams of leaving Hollywood behind to create the world’s first sustainable ecological retreat on a remote Tahitian island. To bring his vision to life, he enlists Bernard Judge (Jon Heder), an idealistic Los Angeles architect, in an against-the-odds effort to transform Tetiaroa, a challenging twelve-island atoll, into an environmentally conscious retreat.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. Google Docs lets you work and save on Google Drive, Hangouts lets you video chat, Gmail gives you a professional email, and Calendar lets you organise – from anywhere, at any time. You should try it and see how it can help your business, too. Google Workspace is offering a 14-day trial. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show. Go to https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Check the show notes for a direct link.
Waltzing with Brando is now playing in theatres everywhere. Now on to my conversation with Garrett, I hope you enjoy the show
Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast.
Today, we’re diving into a film that’s as much about cinema history as it is about the raw, unsettling power of horror. Fifty years after Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre shocked the world and permanently altered the landscape of filmmaking, a new documentary is taking a hard, fascinating look at its legacy.
It’s called Chain Reactions—winner of the Venice Classics Award for Best Documentary on Cinema and an official selection at festivals like Telluride, Sitges, and BFI London. The film brings together voices like Patton Oswalt, Takashi Miike, Alexandra Heller-Nicholas, Stephen King, and Karyn Kusama, weaving their personal impressions, memories, and even traumas into a dialogue about how one scrappy, no-budget horror film embedded itself into our collective nightmares—and never left.
The documentary is written and directed by Alexandre O. Philippe, a filmmaker who has carved out his own space as the leading voice in what he calls “cinema essays.” From 78/52 to Memory: The Origins of Alien to Lynch/Oz, Philippe has built a career exploring not just movies, but the cultural and artistic forces behind them. With Chain Reactions, he once again peels back the layers of a cinematic landmark.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. Google Docs lets you work and save on Google Drive, Hangouts lets you video chat, Gmail gives you a professional email, and Calendar lets you organise – from anywhere, at any time. You should try it and see how it can help your business, too. Google Workspace is offering a 14-day trial. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show Go to https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Chain Reactions in now playing in New York and Los Angeles and will expand nationwide on 9/26. Now on to my conversation with Alexandre O. Philippe— I hope you enjoy the show
In TRAUMATIKA, a young boy’s night terrors become reality when his mother begins showing signs of demonic possession. What he’s about to experience will haunt him for the rest of his life and claim countless lives across generations. Today I’m joined by the co-writers and director of TRAUMATIKA, Pierre Tsigaridis and Maxime Rançon
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. Google Docs lets you work and save on Google Drive, Hangouts lets you video chat, Gmail gives you a professional email, and Calendar lets you organise – from anywhere, at any time. You should try it and see how it can help your business, too. Google Workspace is offering a 14-day trial. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show Go to https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uf
Now on to my conversation with Pierre and Maxime — I hope you enjoy the show
Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast.
As the world continues celebrating the 75th anniversary of Peanuts®, Lee Mendelson Film Productions has given fans a treasure: the first-ever release of Vince Guaraldi’s complete soundtrack to You’re a Good Sport, Charlie Brown. Following the sell-out success of the premiere Zoetrope LP, demand has been so overwhelming that a second pressing is already on the way—along with an Eco-Black vinyl edition arriving September 12, 2025.
At the heart of this historic project is producer Sean Mendelson, who—along with his brother Jason—has worked tirelessly to bring Guaraldi’s timeless jazz back to life in pristine form. With restored and remastered recordings, expanded liner notes, and an eco-conscious approach to vinyl production, this release isn’t just about preserving a classic soundtrack—it’s about honoring a legacy.
Today, we sit down with Sean Mendelson to talk about the Eco-Black Vinyl release, Guaraldi’s genius, and what it means to carry forward his father Lee Mendelson’s enduring Peanuts legacy.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. Google Docs lets you work and save on Google Drive, Hangouts lets you video chat, Gmail gives you a professional email, and Calendar lets you organise – from anywhere, at any time. You should try it and see how it can help your business, too. Google Workspace is offering a 14-day trial. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show Go to https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Today I’m joined by legendary actor Erik Estrada to discuss the time he pulled a knife on Pat Boone, his work on Tony Hawks: Destroying America, and his work on the Amazon hit series Fallout. This interview was recorded at the Tucson Comic-Con.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Google Workspace. We keep things running smoothly and efficiently at Following Films with the convenience of cloud-based Google Workspace programs. Google Docs lets you work and save on Google Drive, Hangouts lets you video chat, Gmail gives you a professional email, and Calendar lets you organise – from anywhere, at any time. You should try it and see how it can help your business, too. Google Workspace is offering a 14-day trial. If you sign up using my link, I can give you a discount, and it helps to support the show Go to https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/G6uF
Now on to my conversation with Erik —big thanks to the folks at Tucson Comic-Con for setting up this interview. I hope you enjoy the show
Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast. Today I’m joined by Nicholas Colia to discuss GRIFFIN IN SUMMER
Griffin Nafly (Everett Blunck) is the most ambitious playwright of his generation. He's also fourteen years old and living with his parents in a humdrum suburb while dreaming of moving to New York City. When his mom (Melanie Lynskey) hires a handsome 25-year-old handyman (Owen Teague), Griffin's life and his new play take an inspired turn. Also starring Kathryn Newton and Abby Ryder Fortson.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Universal Pictures How to Train Your Dragon. The film is currently available on digital, DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD. If you would like to win a free copy of the 4K disc, just send an email with your mailing address to editor@followingfilms.com with the subject line “I can train your dragon.” Winners will be selected at random and receive notification by 8/31.
Now on to my conversation with Nicholas, GRIFFIN IN SUMMER will be in theaters Friday
August 29th, I hope you enjoy the show
Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast. Today I’m joined by Erik Messerschmidt to discuss his Emmy-nominated work on Bono: Stories of Surrender
Bono: Stories of Surrender is a vivid reimagining of Bono’s critically acclaimed one-man stage show, “Stories of Surrender: An Evening of Words, Music and Some Mischief…” As he pulls back the curtain on a remarkable life and the family, friends, and faith that have challenged and sustained him, he also reveals personal stories about his journey as a son, father, husband, activist, and rock star. Along with never-before-seen, exclusive footage from the tour, the film features Bono performing many of the iconic U2 songs that have shaped his life and legacy.
Today’s episode of the Following Films Podcast is brought to you by Universal Pictures How to Train Your Dragon. The film is currently available on digital, DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD. If you would like to win a free copy of the 4K disc, just send an email with your mailing address to editor@followingfilms.com with the subject line “I can train your dragon.” Winners will be selected at random and receive notification by 8/31.
If you’re in the Tucson area—or planning a trip to Southern Arizona at the end of August—come join me at this year’s Tucson Comic-Con! I’ll be moderating a panel with Mike Jaret and Tad Sallee to talk about their work on Going Postal: The Legacy Foretold. We’ll have a film screening, a Q&A with the filmmakers, and some fun giveaways. I’m really excited for this one—catch us Friday, August 29th at 3:00 PM in Panel Room 105! You can purchase tickets for the event https://tucsoncomic-con.com/
Now on to my conversation with Erik, Bono: Stories of Surrender is currently streaming on Apple TV+., I hope you enjoy the show