Film By Numbers

In this episode of Film by Numbers, we step into the legendary 36 Chambers to explore the artistry, history, and impact of martial arts cinema. From the philosophy behind kung fu storytelling to the choreography that shaped action filmmaking around the world, we break down why this genre continues to captivate audiences decades later.Joining us for the discussion is writer David West, who brings his insights on the cultural legacy of martial arts films.David West is the author of Chasing Dragons: An Introduction To The Martial Arts Film (IB Tauris, 2006). He was NEO Magazine’s film critic for nineteen years and now writes for Sight & Sound. He’s contributed audio commentaries, essays, and introductions to Blu-ray releases of Hong Kong and Japanese films for 88 Films, Arrow Video, Eureka, Imprint Films, and Shout Studios. David West on Substack: https://substack.com/@westwatchesmoviesWhether you're a lifelong kung fu movie fan or just curious about the genre’s enduring appeal, tune in as we count through the techniques, tropes, and triumphs of martial arts filmmaking—Film by Numbers style.

Episode 35 of Film By Numbers turns the spotlight on the mesmerizing cinema of Claire Denis in “35 Shots of Rum – The Films of Claire Denis.” In this episode, we dive deep into the sensual, poetic, and quietly devastating filmography of one of modern cinema’s most singular voices. From her hypnotic visual style to her fearless explorations of intimacy, identity, and atmosphere, we unpack what makes her work so emotionally resonant and artistically fearless.Join us as we trace recurring themes, signature techniques, and the subtle power of her storytelling—spotlighting the tenderness, tension, and texture that define her films. Whether you’re a longtime admirer or just discovering her work, this episode offers an insightful, passionate look at a filmmaker who transforms silence, space, and sensation into unforgettable cinema.Hosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsProduced & Edited by Matthew Simmonds Interview clip used:Claire Denis Interview: https://youtu.be/kce_9LeYt6g?si=KW_bwY5PBI2hWVT4Audio from:35 Shots of RumBeau Travail BastardsHigh Life

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!🎄 In Episode 34 of Film By Numbers, we use Miracle on 34th Street as our festive jumping-off point to talk about Christmas movies as a whole. Along the way, we compare and contrast it with other seasonal favorites, including National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, A Christmas Carol, and It’s a Wonderful Life. From heartfelt tradition to sharp comedy and moral lessons, we explore how different Christmas movies capture the spirit of the season in their own ways.Is Miracle on 34th Street the definitive Christmas movie, or just one piece of a much bigger holiday canon? Join us as we break down the films that define Christmas at the movies. 🎅🎬Hosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsProduced & Edit: Matt Simmonds

In this laugh-packed episode of Film by Numbers, we dive headfirst into the wonderfully absurd world of Lt. Frank Drebin as we explore Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult—and the entire Naked Gun trilogy. From sight gags to slapstick, deadpan delivery to jokes that should not work (but absolutely do), we break down what makes this series a comedic landmark.Join us as we discuss the legacy of the Zucker–Abrahams–Zucker style, Leslie Nielsen’s pitch-perfect performance, the trilogy’s most iconic moments, and how the films hold up today. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering Police Squad’s most chaotic detective, this episode is guaranteed to bring the laughs—intentionally or otherwise.Hosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsProduced & Edit by: Matt Simmonds Original Music: Neil Parmar

In Episode 32, we dive headfirst into the zombie horror genre, exploring what makes it endlessly compelling — from its bleak social metaphors to its ever-shifting rules of survival. We break down the evolution of zombie cinema, the tropes we love, the ones we’re tired of, and how the genre keeps reinventing itself for new audiences.Whether you're fascinated by the genre as a whole or curious about the under-the-radar horror gem, Virus 32, this new episode offers a lively, thoughtful look at both.🎧 Press play and let the numbers lead you into the outbreak.Hosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsProduced and Edited by: Matthew Simmonds Original music: Neil Parmar

In this episode, we dive into the cheeky, chaotic, and charming world of the Carry On films — one of Britain’s longest-running and most iconic comedy franchises. From its early slapstick roots to its later, famously saucy humour, we break down all 31 films in the series and explore what made them such a staple of British cinema.Join us as we discuss the recurring cast, the evolving comedy style, the cultural impact (for better or worse), and which entries still land today. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the franchise, this episode is full of nostalgia and analysis.Tune in for a fun, fast-paced journey through a true British comedy institution. Carry on listening! 🎬✨Hosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsProduced and Edited by: Matthew Simmonds Original Music: Neil Parmar Carry On Filmmaking: https://youtu.be/bo_FWcoQLJk?si=0XJSaTMhvwllbjRX

Yippee-ki-yay, movie lovers! In our 30th episode, we climb all the way up to the 30th floor of Nakatomi Plaza for a full-scale deep dive into Die Hard — the explosive 1988 action classic that redefined the genre.Join us as we unpack John McClane’s one-man war against Hans Gruber and his band of Euro-terrorists, explore how Die Hard turned everyday vulnerability into heroism, and debate the eternal question: is it really a Christmas movie?So grab your walkie-talkie, take off your shoes, and crawl through the air vents with us. Welcome to the party, pal.

John Ford’s name is synonymous with American cinema. From Stagecoach to The Searchers, his films helped shape not only the western genre, but the very language of storytelling on screen. In this episode, we explore Ford’s artistry—his eye for landscape, his complex sense of community and individualism, and his enduring influence on generations of filmmakers.Using the seldom-seen silent film The Girl in Number 29 as our jumping-off point, we trace Ford’s early career and discuss how his themes and techniques evolved into the iconic style that made him one of Hollywood’s most celebrated directors.Whether you’re a longtime Ford admirer or new to his work, this is an invitation to rediscover the man behind the myth.Hosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsGuest Host: David SterrittProduced & Edited by: Matthew SimmondsCo-producer: Paul Risker

In this thrilling 28th episode of Film by Numbers, we dive deep into the post-apocalyptic horror that redefined the zombie genre — 28 Days Later. And it wouldn't be a proper celebration without a very special guest: Noah Huntley, who plays Mark in the film, joins us on the pod!We chat with Noah about his experience working on Danny Boyle’s genre-defining classic, behind-the-scenes stories, the film’s gritty production style, and how it helped reshape horror for the 21st century. Plus, we explore the film’s impact, iconic moments, and why it still holds up over two decades later.Hosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsGuest Host: Noah HuntleyProduced & Edited By: Matthew SimmondsCo-producer: Paul Risker Thank you to Noah Huntley for taking time out of his busy rehearsal schedule to chat with us about 28 Days Later. See Noah in 'The Daughter of Time' at the Charing Cross Theatre: https://charingcrosstheatre.co.uk/theatre/the-daughter-of-timeNoah's website: https://www.noahhuntley.com

BONUS EPISODE: Tamar Jeffers McDonald on the Romantic ComedyIn this special bonus episode of Film By Numbers, we’re thrilled to share the full interview with renowned film historian Tamar Jeffers McDonald.Join us as Tamar brings her expert eye to the world of the romantic comedy—unpacking its visual language, cultural impact, and enduring appeal. From golden age Hollywood charm to modern-day classics, she explores how these films capture the genre's emotional core and reflect shifting ideas of romance on screen.Whether you're a rom-com devotee or just curious about how these beloved films are framed and remembered, we hope you enjoy the chat!Thank you Tamar for taking the time out of your busy schedule to chat with FBN.

In this episode, we say “I do” to one of the most beloved—and misunderstood—genres in film: the romantic comedy. Using 27 Dresses (2008), starring Katherine Heigl and James Marsden, as our jumping-off point, we explore the rom-com's tropes, evolution, and cultural impact.Why do so many critics dismiss rom-coms as fluff? What makes 27 Dresses both a quintessential and subversive entry in the genre? And how have romantic comedies shaped our expectations of love, friendship, and personal growth?Join us as we break down the genre conventions, the emotional payoffs that define the genre—and find out why rom-coms deserve a little more acknowledgement.Also joining us for this discussion is Tamar Jeffers McDonald, Professor of Film History, and Dean of the School of Art and Media, at the University of Brighton. Tamar is also the author of Romantic Comedy: Boy Meets Girl Meets Genre and the BFI classic on When Harry Met Sally. You can find Tamar's books here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Tamar-Jeffers-McDonald/author/B0034P8RPS?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueHosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsInterview: Tamar Jeffers McDonaldProduced & Edited By: Matthew SimmondsOriginal Music: Neil Parmar

Following his passing on 16th January 2025, we take the opportunity to honour the film career and genius of American director David Lynch in this episode of Film By Numbers. A true artist who transformed cinematic language with his surrealist soundscapes and dream-like imagery, the ‘Lynchian’ dialogue is one of the subconscious manifested as a progressive narrative by which to share our darkest, yet also our most hopeful, feelings and experiences. Lynch’s dream logic has helped make sense of an often cruel and unforgiving world for many film lovers. His legacy has left an indelible print on the way we tell visual stories and he also leaves behind a formidable body of work that includes several significant masterpieces of the medium.Hosted by Phil Slatter and David Woods. Special guest host Paul Risker.Produced & Edited: Matthew SimmondsOriginal Music: Neil ParmarFull Lynch Lynch Interview: David Lynch - The Idea Dictates Everything: https://youtu.be/_6koYFk6jlA?si=gXMIGvjxOIsH7pMt

To mark our 25th episode, we're diving into 25th Hour and the powerful, provocative filmography of Spike Lee—one of the most vital voices in American cinema.We're joined by special guest host Odie Henderson, the Boston Globe film critic and Spike Lee expert, for a passionate, insightful conversation about Lee's signature style, recurring themes, and cultural impact—from Do the Right Thing to Da 5 Bloods and beyond.We’ll unpack how 25th Hour became one of Lee’s most underrated yet emotionally charged works, explore his collaborations with Denzel Washington, Delroy Lindo, and reflect on how his films continue to challenge and inspire.Tune in for a celebration of bold filmmaking, deep storytelling, and a director who’s never afraid to speak truth through cinema.#SpikeLee #25thHour #FilmByNumbers #OdieHenderson #BlackCinema #MoviePodcast #DoTheRightThingLinks to Odie's work:Slant: https://www.slantmagazine.com/author/odienator/Roger Ebert: https://www.rogerebert.com/contributors/odie-hendersonBooks: https://www.waterstones.com/author/odie-henderson/7159097Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/critics/odie-henderson/moviesLetterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/odienator/Blaxploitation Boxset: https://www.filmtreasures.co.uk/blaxploitation-classics-volume-1-4k-blu-ray-boxset-pre-orderHosts: Phil Slatter & David WoodsProduced by Matthew Simmonds & Paul RiskerEdited by: Matthew Simmonds Original music by: Neil Parmar

In this special full-length interview, Film By Numbers sits down with actor Kieran O’Brien for an unfiltered, wide-ranging conversation about his bold and fascinating career. From his early days on British television to roles in films like 9 Songs, 24 Hour Party People, and The Look of Love. We talk about working with visionary director Michael Winterbottom and the lessons learned from decades in the business. Honest, reflective, and packed with behind-the-scenes insights—this is a must-listen for fans of innovative cinema and raw performance.

In this episode of Film By Numbers, we explore the bold and diverse filmography of Michael Winterbottom—a director known for blurring the lines between fiction and reality, and for tackling everything from war zones to rock tours to raw human intimacy. We’re also joined by special guest Kieran O'Brien, long-time Winterbottom collaborator and star of 9 Songs, 24 Hour Party People, and The Look of Love. Kieran shares behind-the-scenes stories, insights into Winterbottom’s fearless directing style, and what it’s like to work on films that constantly push artistic boundaries. From Manchester's music scene to politically charged docu-dramas, this is a deep dive into one of the UK’s most uncompromising filmmakers. Tune in for candid stories, creative insight, and a celebration of cinema without limits. Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Guest: Kieran O'Brien Produced and Edited: Matt Simmonds

Joel Schumacher: Chaos, Camp & Cult Classics In this episode of Film By Numbers, we dive into the wild, unpredictable world of Joel Schumacher—a filmmaker whose career is as varied as it is misunderstood. From cult classics like The Lost Boys, to controversial turns in Batman Forever and Batman & Robin, to raw dramas like Falling Down and 8MM, Schumacher’s work is bold, stylish, and often polarizing. We explore the recurring themes in his films, his fearless use of visual flair, and the way he balanced popcorn spectacle with deeper, sometimes darker undertones. Was Schumacher a misunderstood auteur or simply a director-for-hire with a flair for spectacle? Let’s revisit his hits, his misses, and everything in between. 🎧 Buckle up—it’s gonna get neon. #JoelSchumacher #FilmByNumbers #TheLostBoys #FallingDown #BatmanAndRobin #MoviePodcast #CultCinema

In this episode, we’ll break down Catch-22, Joseph Heller’s satirical masterpiece, and whether Mike Newell’s film adaptation could ever do it justice. Are some books just impossible to adapt? Is it true that "the book is always better"? And can film ever capture the depth, nuance, and psychological insight of a novel? Plus, we explore the two-way relationship between books and films—does one help the other thrive? And have you ever loved a movie, only to read the book and see it in a whole new light? Also in this episode, we welcome special guest Tim Lebbon, an award-winning author of horror and dark fantasy, to help us tackle one of cinema’s trickiest challenges—adapting books into films and films into books! Tim's works include The Silence (which was adapted into a Netflix film), Among the Living, Coldbrook, and The Nature of Balance. He has also written tie-in novels for major franchises like Alien, Star Wars, and Hellboy. Many thanks to Tim Lebbon for taking time out to chat with us! - Find Tim Here: https://www.timlebbon.net - Buy Tim's Books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B001IU0D3U Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Produced and Edited: Matthew Simmonds Original Music: Neil Parmar Clips Used: Catch 22 trailer Nightclubbing By Iggy Pop (Trainspotting) Apocalypse Now (This Is The End) LA Confidential Stand By Me The Shining Opening Credits #FilmByNumbers #Catch22 #BookToFilm #Storytelling

Hello and welcome to Film By Numbers! This is episode 21 and we have named it '21 Grams - the Films of Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu'. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu Mexican filmmaker. He is primarily known for making modern psychological drama films about the human condition. His projects have garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades including five Academy Awards, as well as a Special Achievement Award, three Golden Globe Awards, three BAFTA Awards, and two Directors Guild of America Awards. His most notable films include Amores perros (2000), 21 Grams (2003), Babel (2006), Biutiful (2010), Birdman (2014), The Revenant (2015), and Bardo (2022). Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Produced & Edited: Matthew Simmonds Original Music: Neil Parmar Clips and music from: Amores Perros (2000) The Revenant (2015) Birdman (2014) David Lynch Quote via The David Lynch Masterclass YouTube Music - Midlands Movie Awards: https://www.midlandsmovies.com/midlands-movies-awards - Submit your film to Midland Movie Awards on Film Freeway: https://filmfreeway.com/MidlandsMoviesAwards •Deadline February 16 2025• The Midlands Movies Awards is an annual awards ceremony for Midlands (UK) films and filmmakers. What are we planning? For our 9th year, Midlands Movies will again be recognising all the movie-making talent from the area in 2025. Our awards will bring attention to the many amazing local films completed in the Midlands region of the UK. What are the rules? Make a film in the Midlands! Our focus is on films from the area so 75% of your finished and submitted film MUST have been shot/made on location in the Midlands region of the UK. For details please check full terms & conditions below. Films submitted will be considered across all eligible categories. How much does it cost? To cover admin costs, we charge a small amount to enter each of your films. For just one single price your film is entered into all of the 16 categories it may be eligible for. When will the ceremony happen? The red carpet evening will take place Saturday June 14th 2025 at the Y Theatre in Leicester in partnership with Chrome Video (www.chromevideo.co.uk) Who’s on the jury panel? A jury panel of respected and experienced film professionals have the difficult task of choosing nominations and winners. Special Guest Jury Member 2025 RICHARD ARMITAGE is a multi-award winning stage and screen actor and best known for his role of Thorin Oakenshield in Peter Jackson’s trilogy of The Hobbit. He has been involved in three global number one Netflix hit shows & also starred in Into the Storm, Alice Through The Looking Glass, Captain America: The First Avenger and Oceans 8. Richard hails from Leicester and went to drama school in Coventry and will choose the winner of Best Short Film Jury Panel 2025: * Jack Rafferty (BBC Leicester) * Jake Harvey (Phoenix Cinema Leicester) * Lateesha Johnson (BFI Network) * Nicola Prestage (BAFTA-nominated filmmaker) * Sophie Ivanova & Mellissa Donello (B'hma Film & TV Market) * Michael Sales (Midlands Movies)

Hello! This is episode 20 and we have named it Twentieth Century Fox – Movie Studios and the Golden Age of Hollywood. We’ll be looking at the influence of the ‘Big 5’ movie studios, MGM, Paramount, Warner Bros, RKO, and, of course, 20th Century Fox, who took cinema from the silent era through to the one of sound and discuss how they created a dynasty of romanticism, escapism and drama, though the glossy veneer was not all it seemed…

This is episode 19 and we have named it K19: The Widowmaker and the subject up for discussion is films set on submarines. The film that gives us our title is Kathryn Bigelow’s 2002 historical thriller about Russia's first nuclear submarine which malfunctions on its maiden voyage. A race against time ensues as the crew put their lives on the line to prevent a nuclear disaster. The film is based on true events: K19 was on its maiden voyage in the North Atlantic in 1961 when disaster struck and the tensions in the submarine are magnified by the conflicting attitudes of Harrison Ford’s Captain Alexei Vostrikov and Liam Neeson’s Captain Mikhail Polenin. Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Produced and Edit by: Matthew Simmonds

We're delighted to share with you our full interview with filmmaker Elliot Goldener. In this interview we discuss the complexities of shooting a 'found footage' film and celebrate the 10 year anniversary of his film 'The Borderlands'. Many thanks to Elliot for taking the time out to speak with us. Interview conducted by Phil Slatter. Produced and edited by Matthew Simmonds

Hello and welcome to episode 18 of Film By Numbers! We've named it Apollo 18 and the subject up for discussion is the fairly unique sub genre of found footage. The film that gives us our title is the 2011 found footage sci-fi horror that tells the tale of a covert mission to the moon after the Apollo space programme had officially ended. We're also joined by filmmaker Elliot Goldner. Elliot is responsible for of the best examples of found footage with his film 'The Borderlands' which is currently celebrating its 10 year anniversary. Many thanks to Elliot and the team at Curtis Brown for helping set up the interview. Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Produced and edited: Matt Simmonds Co-producer: Paul Risker Music: Neil Parmar and YouTube music Clips: The Borderlands Blair Witch Project Apollo 18 Troll Hunter Extras: The Borderlands Anniversary Blu-Ray: https://secondsightfilms.co.uk/products/the-borderlands-limited-edition-blu-ray-pre-order-available-april Diabolical Podcast: www.diabolicalpod.com

Our Hitchcock conversation continues with this exclusive interview with film critic, author and scholar, David Sterritt. David has vast knowledge of Hitchcock's work (and he's met Hitch!) and has published critical studies and taught courses on Alfred Hitchcock. Many thanks to David for sharing his extensive knowledge of the Master of Suspense. The interview was conducted by Film By Numbers producer Paul Risker. Paul is a Contributing Editor at PopMatters, advisory board member and interview editor of Mise-en-scène: The Journal of Film & Visual Narration (MSJ), the official film studies journal of Kwantlen Polytechnic University, whose work has been published by RogerEbert.com, Little White Lies, Dirty Movies, Eye For Film, the Quarterly Review of Film & Video, Filmmaker Magazine, Film International, and VideoScope among others. He's currently working on a 27-month odyssey with the alphabetic list of the dirtiest movies ever made for Dirty Movies Edited by Matthew Simmonds Futher links: David's website: davidjsterritt.com David's books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-David-Sterritt/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3ADavid+Sterritt David 's Twitter/X: @DavidSterritt Music Credits/Clips Used: Hamelin plays Poulenc - Mouvement Perpétuel No.1 The Trouble with Harry - Overture Psycho opening theme Family Plot closing theme Original music by: Mary Celeste by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1500016Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Hello and welcome to the latest episode of Film By Numbers!  It is Episode 17 and we have called it ‘Meeting at Number 17: The Films of Alfred Hitchcock’. Number 17 was an early feature film of Hitchcock’s from 1932 that the great man himself denounced as “a terrible picture, very cheap melodrama.”  It’s a crime thriller about a gang of thieves who gather at a safe house following a robbery whilst being pursued by a police detective. As well as Number 17 we delve into Hitchcock’s filmography, motifs, and legacy.  Many thanks to Jennie Kermode (writer and director at Eye For Film) and Michael Barrett (film critic and writer) for joining us on this podcast.  Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Guest Hosts: Jennie Kermode & Michael Barrett Produced by Matthew Simmonds & Paul Risker Edited by Matthew Simmonds Original Music by Neil Parmar Reach out to Jenny and Michael: -       Jennie on X: @jennie_kermode  -       Jennie’s books: https://shorturl.at/BFZ58 -       Michael on Popmatters: https://shorturl.at/dorvF You can get in touch with Film By Numbers via X (@FilmNumbersPod) and Instagram (film_by_numbers_podcast) Further Reading: Hitchcock/Truffaut – Francois Truffaut My Name Is Alfred Hitchcock – Mark Cousins  78/52 – Alexandre O.Phillippe Talking Hitchcock Podcast – Rebecca McCallum Please do get in touch if you’ve got any suggestions for future episodes or if you’ve got any questions for the team. 

We're delighted to share with you our full interview with producer Rebecca O'Brien. In this interview with discuss working with filmmaker Ken Loach and writher Paul Laverty. We also discuss the state of funding in British cinema and the complexities of working within a co-production. Many thanks to Rebecca and the team at Sixteen Productions for being part of Film By Numbers. Interview by David Woods Produced and Edited by Matthew Simmonds

Hello and welcome to episode 16 of Film By Numbers. We are now up to Episode 16 and we have named this Sweet Sixteen after both the Ken Loach film of 2002 and the production company set up at that time by Loach his long term screenwriting collaborator Paul Laverty and producer Rebecca O’Brien. And We're thrilled to announce we have an excerpt of an interview with Sweet Sixteen producer Rebecca O'Brien in this podcast, the full interview will be made available as a separate podcast in the near future. Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Produced & Edited: Matthew Simmonds Music: Neil Parmar & YouTube Music Many thanks to Emma and the team at Sixteen Films!

It is episode 15 and we have called it ‘The 15 Beats of the Script’ which come from Blake Snyder's Save The Cat and breaks up a standard script into 15 beats which are, Opening Image, Theme Stated, Set-up, Catalyst, Debate, Break into 2, B Story, Fun and games, Midpoint, Bad Guy close in, All is lost, Dark Knight of the soul, Break into 3, Finale Final image Many thanks to Glenn Gers to taking part in our interview. Below are links to the full interview and Glenn's YouTube channel. Full interview: https://youtu.be/iUdpTszlwYo Glenn's website: writingforscreens.com YouTube: Writing For Screens Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Music: Neil Parmar & YouTube Music Produced & Edit: Matt Simmonds

We're delighted to share our full interview with fabulous Pamela Hutchinson. Pam is freelance writer, critic, curator and film historian. She regularly contributes to The Guardian, Sight & Sound, BFI and is also the editor of the silent film website Silent London. Our discussion digs into the wonders of the musical genre and how the format has progressed over time. Many thanks go out to Pam for being part of this discussion. Additional reading 👉 Pam's website: https://pamhutch.wordpress.com/about/ BFI article mentioned in the pod: https://www2.bfi.org.uk/news-opinion/sight-sound-magazine/features/movie-musicals-history-radical-spectacle Pam's new book!: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-red-shoes/pamela-hutchinson//9781839026065?awaid=3787&utm_source=redbrain&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=css&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsp6pBhCfARIsAD3GZuaOopGpM74OKizIR1Bmm3eujxACJ_hCerhamaarNBwzfMT4HkjQzSIaAlONEALw_wcB You can also follow Pam on Twitter/X at @pamhutch and on Linkedin.

It is episode 14 and we have been a bit creative in naming the podcast Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and the subject is musicals. It’s a broad topic and we have roped in some help in the guise of author, critic, film historian and curator Pamela Hutchinson. We will play an excerpt of our interview with Pamela later on and the full interview will be available as a separate podcast. Pam's website: https://pamhutch.wordpress.com/about/ All that Glitters - BFI article: https://www2.bfi.org.uk/news-opinion/sight-sound-magazine/features/movie-musicals-history-radical-spectacle The Red Shoes book: https://shop.bfi.org.uk/the-red-shoes-bfi-film-classics-paperback.html Hosts: Phil Slatter and David Woods Produced and Edited: Matthew Simmonds Original Music: Neil Parmar

Here's our full interview with the author of the Devil's Advocates book on Halloween, Murray Leeder. Thanks to Murray for chatting with us.

It is episode 13 and we have named it Assault on Precinct 13. We jumped at the chance to discuss the directorial films of the writer, director, producer and composer John Carpenter.  We discuss his back catalogue and what may come for the self-acclaimed ‘Horror-Mesiter’.  We’re also delighted to have Murray Leeder on the podcast. Murry is the author is a the Devils Advocate book on Halloween.  Halloween (Devils Advocate) Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Halloween-Devils-Advocate-Advocates/dp/1906733791 Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Interview: Murray Leeder Edited: Matthew Simmonds Music: Neil Parmar Clips Used: Dark Star (1974) Assault on Precinct 13 (1976) The Thing (1982) Halloween (1978) They Live (1988)

It is episode 12 and we have named in 12 Angry Men. Primarily we are going to discuss chamber pieces – films that take place by and large in just one location. The film that gives us our title was directed by Sidney Lumet in 1957 and tells the story of a jury sent out to deliberate the verdict of a seemingly open and shut murder case. They have to return a unanimous decision and whilst 11 jurors are convinced of the defendants guilt, juror number 8 (Henry Fonda) is not so sure and feels they men should discuss the case further. Hosts: Phil Slatter David Woods Music: Neil Parmar YouTube Music Edited: Matt Simmonds

Hello and welcome to episode 11! There are eleven players on an association football team so on this episode we will be discussing football in cinema. We will be looking at why it doesn’t work from an aesthetic point of view, how it works narratively and socially and taking a look at documentaries. Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Edited and Produced By: Matt Simmonds Music: Neil Parmar & YouTube music. Buy Film By Numbers a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/outwardfilmnetwork

Hello and welcome to the latest episode of ‘Film by Numbers’ from Outward Film Network. This episode is number ten and we have called this ‘The Ten Commandments’ after in may respects three things – the Cecil B Demille 1923 silent film, the re-make also by DeMille from 1956 which famously starred Charlton Heston as Moses and of course the actual ten commandments from the old testament and Torah. So we will be discussing religion in cinema. You can search Outward on Facebook, Instagram and our YouTube channel and our website is www.outwardfilmnetwork.com Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Edited: Matthew Simmonds Music: Neil Parmar & YouTube music

Let’s talk about sex This episode is number nine and we have called this ‘Nine Songs’ after the Michael Winterbottom film from 2004. Known for its explicit sex scenes in which the actors Kieran O’Brien and Margo Stilley were actually having sex, it was a censorship landmark so we’re going to be looking back at sex in cinema, from the Hays code to erotic thrillers to sex comedies and all the way through to where we are now. We also have a guest host! We chat with intimacy coordinator Haley Muraleedharan about her role and thoughts on sex in film. Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Guest Host: Haley Muraleedharan  Produced and Edited By Matthew Simmonds Music: Neil Parmer & YouTube Studio.  Additional reading: Women Not In Film. Many thanks to Haley Muraleedharan (@HaleyMuralee) for being a superb guest! And finally a big thanks to Loop Talent for helping put this together.

This episode is number eight and we have called this ‘Hard Eight’ meaning we will be discussing the films of the writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson. You can search Outward on Facebook, Instagram and our YouTube channel and our website is www.outwardfilmnetwork.com Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Guest Host: Neil Parmer Edited: Matt Simmonds Music: Neil Parmar

This episode is number seven and the theme is 007: James Bond. At the time of recording, this episode also coincides with the 60 th anniversary year of the Bond films, as well as the conclusion of Daniel Craig’s stint as the iconic super spy. As we wait to find out who the next Bond will be, we’ll be discussing the extraordinary longevity of this franchise, the source material of Ian Fleming’s novels and how they have been translated into cinema, the politics of Bond, the different actors and accompanying eras portraying the world’s most famous secret agent, and all the gadgets, girls and villains while not forgetting the legendary Bond themes. Hosts: Phil Slatter & David Woods Guest: Matthew Simmonds Original Music: Neil Parmar

Welcome to episode 6! We've called this ‘The Sixth Sense’ after M. Night Shymalan’s 1999 film and we will be discussing film twists. Is a revelation the same as a Twist? What makes a good or bad twist? How genre expectation has affected twists over time? Post modern casting and how that affects a twist, and of course our recommendations. SPOILER ALERT! We try to be spoiler light here but obviously there will be times where we may reveal a films secret so do be aware.  SPOILER ALERT!

This episode is number five - Five Star Reviews and we are looking at the role of film critics and film reviews. What is the purpose of a film critic and review? What effect can they have? What is it like to get reviewed? Hosts: Phil Slatter Guest Host: Paul Risker Edited by: Matt Simmonds Music: Neil Parmar and YouTube Studio Clips used:  Roger Ebert on Film Criticism - Full clip: https://youtu.be/8FCVlQ_5aSI Pauline Kael, The New Yorker - Full clip: https://youtu.be/fpV_bkcdNqk Buy Film By Numbers a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/outwardfilmnetwork

This episode is number four and we are looking at ‘The Fourth Wall’, the invisible screen that exists between the characters on screen and the audience. Yet many films break that wall and has characters talking directly to the audience or even interacting with filming conventions such as editing and linear narrative. We’re going to be discussing why films do this, how it can be done well, situations where it works, situations where it doesn’t work and we will give you some recommendations of films that we love that break said wall. Hosts: Phil Slatter and David Woods Edited: Matt Simmonds Music credits Neil Parmar, YouTube Library and Pixies.  Buy Film By Numbers a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/outwardfilmnetwork

This episode is called ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri’ and we are going to be discussing the films of the great actor and producer Frances McDormand. The film that gives us our title was released in 2017 and was written and directed by Martin McDonagh. It stars McDormand as grieving mother Midlred Hayes who rents the advertising space of the billboards of the title and emblazons them with the phrases ‘Raped Whilst Dying’, ‘And still no arrests’, ‘How come, Chief Willoughby?’. The film was a huge box office and critical success and won McDormand the second of her four Oscars, three of which are for acting and one for producing the 2020 film Nomadland. Episode three is a tribute to actor/producer Frances McDormand.  Hosted by Phil Slatter and David Woods Edited by Matt Simmonds Music by Neil Parmar and YouTube library.  Buy Film By Numbers a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/outwardfilmnetwork

Hello and welcome to the latest episode of ‘Film by Numbers’ from Outward Film Network. We are the film podcast in which the topic of discussion is dictated by the number of the episode. In this episode – episode 2, we are discussing film sequels. What makes some work and others not work, how have they changed over time, are they a thing of the past, is timing key, planned and unplanned sequels, films that you didn’t know had sequels and films that you didn’t know were sequels  Hosted by Phil Slatter and David Woods  Edited by Matthew Simmonds  Music by Neil Parmar and YouTube Music Studio  Buy Film By Numbers a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/outwardfilmnetwork

What was your first DVD? Trip to the cinema? Experience on a film set? In this episode Phil and Dave discuss their film firsts.  Hosted by Phil Slatter and David Woods.  Edited by Matthew Simmonds.  Music by Neil Parmar. Buy Film By Numbers a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/outwardfilmnetwork

Welcome to Episode 0! In our first full episode we discuss all aspects of zero budget fimmaking.   Hosted by Phil Slatter and David Woods.   Edited by Matthew Simmonds.  Music by Neil Parmar. Buy Film By Numbers a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/outwardfilmnetwork

Welcome to Film By Numbers. A podcast influenced by its episode number. A series that could take us to all corners of film, in front, behind and to the side of the camera.