Required Watching is the ultimate film review podcast for aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles alike! Join me, Tray Epps, as we embark on an exciting cinematic journey through the lens of learning about filmmaking and discovering how to move forward in the world of cinema.
In each episode, we dive deep into the essential films handpicked by influential cinematic influencers and esteemed filmmakers. Together, we explore the genius behind these masterpieces and unravel the secrets of their storytelling techniques, cinematography, and character development.
But this podcast is more than just film analysis. It's a comprehensive guide for those passionate about making their mark in the film industry. We examine the films not only for their artistic brilliance but also to learn valuable lessons that can help us grow as aspiring filmmakers. From dissecting unique storytelling structures to understanding the nuances of visual composition, we leave no stone unturned in our quest for filmmaking knowledge.
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Required Watching is the ultimate film review podcast for aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles alike! Join me, Tray Epps, as we embark on an exciting cinematic journey through the lens of learning about filmmaking and discovering how to move forward in the world of cinema.
In each episode, we dive deep into the essential films handpicked by influential cinematic influencers and esteemed filmmakers. Together, we explore the genius behind these masterpieces and unravel the secrets of their storytelling techniques, cinematography, and character development.
But this podcast is more than just film analysis. It's a comprehensive guide for those passionate about making their mark in the film industry. We examine the films not only for their artistic brilliance but also to learn valuable lessons that can help us grow as aspiring filmmakers. From dissecting unique storytelling structures to understanding the nuances of visual composition, we leave no stone unturned in our quest for filmmaking knowledge.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tray Epps dissects Kill—the train-bound action film that weaponizes violence as narrative. We explore how evolving fight choreography, crushing foley work, and immersive camerawork turn every bruise and heartbeat into story. Drawing connections to The Raid, Oldboy, and RRR, this episode shows filmmakers how to harness rhythm, emotion, and consequence in genre cinema. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts—and pick up full show notes and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tray Epps dissects Bottoms, Emma Seligman’s razor-sharp, bloodiest teen satire. We unpack how heightened absurdity, messy queer protagonists, and raw fight choreography carry emotional weight without a single set-piece feeling gratuitous. Learn how this film walks the tightrope between meta-comedy and genuine stakes, and why it’s a must-study for any filmmaker pushing genre boundaries. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. Full show notes and resources at requiredwatching.com.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tray Epps explores Martin Scorsese’s cult classic The King of Comedy—the original parasocial horror story. We discuss Rupert Pupkin’s delusional quest for fame, Jerry Lewis’s poignant straight-man role, and how this film foresaw our current influencer culture.
Episode Highlights:
– Scorsese’s use of silence and dread to build tension
– Robert De Niro’s portrayal of ambition vs. delusion
– Satire on celebrity obsession long before social media
– Takeaways for storytellers on character, tone, and satire
Whether you’re editing your next short or mapping out your feature, this breakdown offers cinematic insights you won’t want to miss. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, and visit requiredwatching.com for full show notes, timestamps, and exclusive filmmaker resources.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode explores why 'Rush Hour' endures as a beloved film 25 years after its release, dissecting the dynamic partnership between Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. The video delves into how the film combines action and comedy, the smart pacing, and its respectful handling of cultural differences. It discusses the director's role in creating a movie with perfect balance, the chemistry between the stars, and the film's lasting impact on the buddy cop genre. Concluding with a call for viewers to rewatch the film with a critical eye, the episode emphasizes 'Rush Hour' as essential viewing for understanding action comedies.
00:00 Introduction: Is Rush Hour a Buddy Cop Classic?
00:18 The Dynamic Duo: Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker
00:56 Balancing Act: Action and Comedy
01:33 Smart Pacing and Editing
01:56 Cultural Exploration and Respect
02:34 Director's Touch and Film Structure
03:01 Legacy and Impact
03:26 Conclusion: Why Rush Hour is Required Watching
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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This isn’t about Iron Man. It’s about what happens when the biggest film franchise in the world chooses nostalgia over risk, legacy over originality, and comfort over challenge.
In this raw and personal episode, Tray Epps breaks down what RDJ’s return to the MCU really signals:
We also touch on:
This isn’t a hot take. It’s a call for accountability, nuance, and better storytelling — on screen and off.
🎤 New episodes coming soon with filmmaker Kate Driver and more.
🎥 Subscribe and stay tuned for deeper dives into film, culture, and the future of media.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
Are we watching the MCU reset or collapse?
Should we separate the art from the artist — or hold studios to a higher standard?
Let’s talk: @RequiredWatching on socials or drop a YouTube comment.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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What happens when you take a classic spy thriller and remix it with Bollywood flair?
In this episode, Tray Epps explores how Ek Tha Tiger redefines espionage cinema through a uniquely Indian lens. From high-octane action and political undertones to an emotionally layered romance, Ek Tha Tiger is more than just a blockbuster—it’s the foundation of the YRF Spy Universe.
We unpack:
Required or not? Absolutely. This is a case study in adaptation, scale, and storytelling beyond Hollywood’s shadow.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
Have you joined the YRF Spy University yet? Is Ek Tha Tiger a guilty pleasure or a cultural milestone?
Let us know on YouTube or @RequiredWatching on socials.
Subscribe to Required Watching wherever you get your podcasts.
Let’s watch better, together.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Speed has one of the cleanest high-concept premises in movie history: A bomb on a bus that can’t drop below 50 MPH. And somehow, that one idea gave us 116 minutes of nonstop tension, character chemistry, and genre-defining moments.
In this episode, Tray Epps breaks down why Speed is more than a 90s action movie — it’s required watching for anyone learning to write or direct films.
We talk about:
Filmmaker Takeaways:
Related Episodes:
QUESTION:
What’s your favorite Speed moment — and what did it teach you about storytelling?
Subscribe to Required Watching for weekly cinematic deep dives with lessons filmmakers can actually use.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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No budget. No experience. No film school. Just vision.
In this episode, Tray Epps explores Pather Panchali, Satyajit Ray’s quiet epic that became a landmark of world cinema.
We unpack:
This isn’t just a film. It’s a lesson in how to move people with less.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
Does Pather Panchali still hold up?
Have you seen it recently—or is it still on your list?
Tell us on YouTube or @RequiredWatching.
Don’t forget to subscribe for weekly deep dives into global films and essential cinematic lessons.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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In this episode of Required Watching, Tray Epps breaks down Godzilla Minus One and its black-and-white Minus Color version to explore why this movie hits harder than most modern monster films.
This isn’t your dad’s Godzilla.
We talk about:
This is more than spectacle. This is what monster movies should strive to be.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
Did you see the color version or Minus Color?
Let us know what you thought in the comments or @RequiredWatching on social media.
Subscribe for more global film deep dives.
Let’s watch better. Let’s make better films.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Beyond music, Michael Jackson crafted groundbreaking short films. We dive into his cinematic influence, his storytelling techniques, and how his work reshaped music videos into an art form.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Renfield offers a fresh, humorous take on the Dracula mythos. Discover how this film reinvents classic horror archetypes through dark comedy and memorable performances, and what that means for horror-comedy.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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With its haunting visuals and feminist themes, Bulbbul stands out in Indian cinema. We explore its mythical storytelling and powerful themes, analyzing what makes it a modern horror masterpiece.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Bhoot brings a fresh spin to the horror genre in Indian cinema. Join us as we dissect its use of suspense, cultural context, and traditional horror tropes that captivate and haunt audiences worldwide.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Takashi Miike’s Audition remains one of the most disturbing films in horror. This episode delves into how its narrative, suspense, and shock elements create a lasting impact, and what filmmakers can learn from its mastery.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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When two iconic anti-heroes collide, what lessons can filmmakers take from their unique blend of humor, grit, and unpredictability? We explore the evolution of both characters and how they revolutionize the genre.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Trap challenges thriller conventions with its tense, unpredictable plot. In this analysis, we break down the film’s unique narrative, its visual storytelling, and discuss how it keeps audiences on edge from start to finish.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Dive into Todd Phillips' Joker and its portrayal of Arthur Fleck's descent into chaos. We'll explore the film’s psychological depth, its bold storytelling choices, and what it means for the future of anti-hero narratives in film.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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Yeah, I needed to take it to the streets in this very rough reaction the the film that will likely be nominated for all of the awards, but deserves to have just been a different movie entirely.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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We dive deep into the gripping world of 'The Host' (2006), a thrilling creature feature from South Korea directed by Bong Joon Ho. In this movie review, we explore the film's captivating storyline, memorable characters, and the impact it has had on the monster movie genre.
Thanks for listening to Required Watching!
Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts—every ★ helps more filmmakers and cinephiles find these deep dives.
🎬 Join our community: sign up for show notes, transcripts, and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com/newsletter
🐦 Follow on social: @RequiredWatching on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok
🎥 Watch the videos: youtube.com/RequiredWatching
💖 Support the show: become a patron at patreon.com/requiredwatching for early access, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive Q&As.
Until next time, keep watching—and keep creating.
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