In this episode, Eliana and Simone take a break from interviews to quiz each other on classic film trivia. From naming iconic actors to recalling memorable scenes, they test their knowledge and reflect on what makes these films so memorable. It’s a relaxed, fun conversation for anyone who enjoys classic cinema.
In this episode, Eliana talks to Alessandra Seggi about her book Youth and Suicide in American Cinema: Context, Causes, and Consequences. The book explores how American films about the youth from 1900 to 2019 portray suicide, often focusing on outside social pressures rather than personal or psychological struggles. These portrayals are frequently simplistic or one-sided, so the book encourages media literacy as a way to help young viewers better understand and question what they see on screen.
In this episode, Eliana sits down with Lyndsy Spence to discuss her book Where Madness Lies: The Double Life of Vivien Leigh. Where Madness Lies explores the life of Vivien Leigh, the celebrated actress known for her iconic roles in Gone with the Wind and A Streetcar Named Desire, and her turbulent twenty-year relationship with Laurence Olivier. Beginning in 1953 with a devastating breakdown and institutionalization, the book delves into Leigh’s struggle with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, her mistreatment by the medical system, and the emotional toll of Olivier’s infidelity as she fought to reclaim her life and career.
In this episode, Eliana and Simone talk with Joseph McBride about his book, George Cukor’s People: Acting for a Master Director! George Cukor’s People is a critical study of the legendary director, highlighting his ability to bring out deeply emotional and psychologically rich performances from actors while subtly infusing his work with themes of gender fluidity and social transgression. Through insightful essays and lavish illustrations, McBride challenges the reductive stereotype of Cukor as merely a "woman’s director," instead portraying him as a masterful, subversive filmmaker whose legacy remains strikingly modern.
In this episode, Eliana sits down with Jason Colavito to discuss his biography, Jimmy: The Secret Life of James Dean. James Dean redefined American masculinity by blending vulnerability with strength, creating a bold and, at times, unsettling new image of manhood. His lasting influence is deeply tied to his identity as a queer man, challenging midcentury norms and leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood and beyond.
In this episode, Eliana brings Burt Kearns back to discuss his latest biography, SHEMP! The Biography of The Three Stooges’ Shemp Howard, The Face of Film Comedy. SHEMP! is the definitive biography of Shemp Howard, an original member of the Three Stooges who left the group in 1932 to build a prolific solo career in over a hundred films across multiple genres. Author Burt Kearns challenges long-standing myths about Shemp, revealing his influence in Hollywood’s Golden Age and the behind-the-scenes forces that led to his return to the Stooges. Through extensive research and interviews, the book highlights Shemp’s enduring legacy, his impact on comedy, and the devoted following he continues to inspire.
In this episode, Eliana sits down with Matthew Strohl to discuss his newest book, Hard to Watch: How to Fall in Love with Difficult Movies. Despite unprecedented access to a vast array of films through streaming, physical media, and repertory theaters, most viewers stick to the familiar and popular. In Hard to Watch, philosopher Matthew Strohl argues that by avoiding so-called "difficult" films, we miss out on the unique rewards they offer.
In this episode, Eliana welcomes Patrick Keating to discuss his book Film Noir and the Art of Lighting. Keating’s book examines the dynamic lighting of film noir, not just as symbolism but as a key storytelling tool in Hollywood cinema. Through analyses of eleven classic films, it explores how shifts between light and shadow enhance emotion, character development, and narrative tension.
In this episode, Eliana chats with Kyle Turner about his latest book, The Queer Film Guide: 100 Great Movies That Tell LGBTQIA+ Stories.
Kyle Turner's The Queer Film Guide highlights 100 essential queer films, spanning early cinema to modern classics. This curated list celebrates overlooked works and acclaimed masterpieces, showcasing the diverse creators and characters who have shaped cinema and culture. This is part one one this interview and part two will come out in exactly 2 weeks!
In this episode, Eliana sits down with Kim Nelson to discuss her book, Making History Move: Five Principles of the Historical Film. Making History Move offers a framework for analyzing how history is presented in films and moving images in the digital age. The book explores how historical films shape public understanding of the past and provides criteria to assess their accuracy and impact. Hope you enjoy!
In this episode, Eliana sits down with Steven Cohan to discuss his new book, Audrey Hepburn: An Opinionated Guide. Together, they talk about everything from what inspired him to write about Hepburn and why she continues to captivate audiences today. Steven in this book delves into Hepburn’s enduring significance, offering a fresh perspective on her life, career, and legacy. This is part one of their interview, with part two coming out in exactly two weeks. Enjoy!
In this episode, Eliana is here with Teenage Golden Age producer Simone Elias to talk about her new McFarland book, Old Movies, Young Eyes: A Teenage Take on Hollywood’s Golden Age. Simone O. Elias uncovers the lasting relevance of these films, showing how they foreshadowed the digital age, questioned stereotypes, and influenced icons from Lady Gaga to Taylor Swift, making old movies a surprising touchstone for today’s pop culture and social movements. Hope you enjoy the episode and make sure to preorder the book on Amazon!
In this episode, Eliana is joined by Burt Kearns to discuss his book Marlon Brando: Hollywood Rebel. We explore Brando’s journey from his breakout roles to his activism in the civil rights movement, and how his groundbreaking approach continues to influence modern acting. Hope you enjoy! The next episode isode out in two weeks!
In this episode, Eliana is back with James Charney, alongside his son Noah Charney, to talk about their latest book, The 12-Hour Film Expert: Everything You Need to Know About Movies. We discuss everything from film history to genres! New episode out in two weeks!
In this episode, Eliana sits down with Katie Gee Salisbury, author of Not Your Chinese Doll: The Wild and Shimmering Life of Anna May Wong. They delve into the groundbreaking career of Anna May Wong, Hollywood’s first Asian American star, exploring her iconic roles and the challenges she faced in the industry.
In this episode, Eliana chats with Scott Drebit about his book, A Cut Below: A Celebration of B Horror Movies, 1950-1980. They dive into the evolution of horror and how these films capture the zeitgeist of their times. Catch the new episode in two weeks!