Movies In Focus

Over the course of the last half century, Gregg Henry has become one of the most prolific - and one of the best character actors around. A man who has notched-up five guest-starring roles in Murder, She Wrote alone and who has starred in six Brian De Palma projects as well as movies like Payback, Jason Bourne and the Guardians Of The Galaxy films - to name but a few. I first noticed him opposite Mel Gibson in Payback - where he more than held his own on screen against that A-list star - and I know that he always gives a great performance, no matter what role he playsIn his new film, Above The Line, Henry plays a ruthless Hollywood producer, who gets more than he bargained for when a group of Hollywood wannabes attempt to steal his Best Picture Awards on Christmas Eve. I was thrilled to chat with Gregg Henry about Above The Line, the changing face of movies in the 21st Century — as well what he knows about the rumblings of a new Brian De Palma film.

A faux documentary that charts the chaos around the making (and therefore the unmaking) of a fictitious $500 million epic called Dissident, Chapter 51 positions itself as a true crime documentary which delves into the murder of three lead actresses during production. This is essentially flawless filmmaking, a rare cinematic gem that delivers on an intriguing premise. It would be great without the luscious visuals, but filmmaker and photographer Tyler Shield’s eye as a visual stylist takes Chapter 51 to a whole other level. This delivers on all fronts. It’s not only one of the most interesting films you’ll see this year, but it’s also one of the very best. I was thrilled to have director Tyler Shields join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about how Chapter 51 was made - the choices which help make it such a visually fascinating piece of cinema, film in general,  camera lenses and a whole lot more.If you love cinema, you’ll love this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. 

John Brownell’s Coin is a crypto comedy that sees two slacker friends who, through a series of events, manage to misappropriate political campaign funds in order to launch a cryptocurrency so they can save their local park from developers. Things don’t quite go to plan and the pair find themselves pursued by a hitman.A sort of modern day take on the type of films where Kevin Smith made his name, Coin is an energetic and entertaining comedy with a likeable central duo. Also - it just gives you enough detail on cryptocurrency - if you’re a crypto coin Luddite and know nothing about that sort of thing. . John Brownell joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast ahead of Coin's launch at the Dances With Films festival. The filmmaker talks about self-financing the comedy, keeping a low budget film on schedule, his passion for film and much more.

Filmmaker Jordan Ruttert joins the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about the first episode in a proposed independent TV series, The Reverb, which is premiering at the Dances With Films festival on June 27th, Pitched as a show written by Gen Z for Gen Z, the series will follow a band on the decline that is struck by an unexpected tragedy. They must then turn to old friends in a fight to uncover the truth.A young filmmaker with a big vision, Jordan Ruttert discusses the grand design for The Reverb, being young filmmaker and writing for a specific audience - as well as her plans for the future. 

Director-producer Jay Silverman joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss his new film Yale. The comedy-drama launches at the Dances With Films film festival on June 18th and it’s a smart, well acted piece that feels like it was lifted straight from the 1990s - and I mean that in a good way. Starring Caitlin McGee and Kevin Dunn, Yale is based on a true story about a troubled author who must confront the deadbeat father who abandoned her as a child in an effort to find a kidney donor for her dying son. It’s a film with good performances and a lot of heart - and it has the potential to be a real crowd pleaser when it reaches an audience. A veteran of film and TV, Jay Silverman joined the podcast to talk about the process of developing Yale with writer Van Billet, the personal connection of cinema, working in the independent film world and much, much more. Find out more about Yale at jaysilvermanproductions.com 

The wonderful David Morse and director Joseph T. Walker join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about their new film, Broken Land. An excellent small scale drama, the film sees Morse play a widowed Texas rancher who takes an injured migrant (played by Jaklyn Bejarano) under his wing. Broken Land features strong performances and it has a real 1970s feel with characters and performances at the forefront. Morse has long been a favourite character actor of mine and he really excels here, delivering a lot of emotion with very little dialogue. David Morse and Joseph T. Walker talk about how Broken Land came to be, the challenges of making a character driven cinema in today’s film climate and much more.Morse also brought up a film which is a particular favourite of mine - the late, great Richard Donner’s Inside Moves - and I was excited to be able to tell him how much I admire his performance in that film. Broken Land hits On Demand on 12 June, 2026.

Legendary horror icon, Barbara Crampton (Re-Animator, Chopping Mall, Castle Freak) and Desiree Staples (My Divorce Party), the stars of short film, The Blue Diamond, join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast, along with the film’s director and co-writer, Sam Fox (Fck'n Nuts).The Blue Diamond is a quirky and energetic sci-fi short set in an 1980s ski resort which deals with personal loss, overbearing parents and… aliens. It’s a vibrant and punchy proof of concept short that hits the senses like cinematic energy drink. Barbara Crampton, Desiree Staples and Sam Fox go into detail on making the film, its origins, the film's 1980s fashion  - as well as discussing how The Blue Diamond will become a full length feature.

Jon Keeyes, the director of the new supernatural thriller, Speed Demon joins this special bite-sized episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. A gonzo mix of The Exorcist meets Speed by way of Murder On The Orient Express, Speed Demon sees a Nun who has lost her faith battling demonic possession on a runaway train. Frankly, if that doesn’t make you want to watch the movie then nothing will! An ensemble film toplined by Katie Cassidy and William H. Macy, Speed Demond is a silly, but very entertaining twist on the Exorcism sub-genre. And when you’ve seen as many of those as I have, any variation on the concept is a very welcome.Jon Keeyes discusses the film and its far-out concept, the joys of making a one location supernatural thriller as well as sequel potential and much, much more. Speed Demon hits U.S. cinemas, on Demand and on Digital on May 31.

Filmmaker Paul Bunnell - the man behind The Ghastly Love of Johnny X - joins this episode of the Movies In Focuspodcast to talk about his new film, an offbeat reimagining of the now lost Lon Chaney horror film, A Blind Bargain. Shot on Kodak film, this 1970s set horror comedy sees Jake Horowitz’s Dominic Fontaine make a Faustian pact with Crispin Glover’s mysterious Dr. Gruder. A fascinating guest with decades of filmmaking behind him, Bunnell talks about how he became attached to A Blind Bargain, working with the legendary Back To The Future star Crispin Glover  - and why he was insistent on shooting this quirky pic on Kodak film. We also get into the mechanics of what its like shooting on film, in an industry which is now so focused on digital filmmaking.This is another must listen episode for film fans who really enjoy cult curiosities. 

Michael Schilf’s The Wolf And The Lamb is a real curio of a western-horror hybrid with a stacked cast that includes Cassandra Scerbo, Adrianne Palicki, Zach McGowan, James Landry Hébert, Q’orianka Kilcher and Clint Howard. A strange blend of western series, Deadwood and Stephen King's  Salem’s Lot, this a true ensemble film that really plays with the horror slow burn as a quiet evil begins to envelope a Montana town - when its children go missing one by one. Cassandra Scerbo, Adrianne Palicki, Zach McGowan, James Landry Hébert ganged up on Niall Browne when they joined this episode of the Movies In Focus to talk about making The Wolf And The Lamb. It’s a boisterous episode  - but one that’s must for fans of any of the actors involved or those who love westerns and/or horror films. 

You might have certain expectations when going into a film called The Yeti. However, filmmakers Gene Gallerano and William Pisciotta blow those expectations out of the water with their surprising new monster film. A horror pic with a difference, this period creature feature has a strong cast that includes Brittany Allen, Eric Nelsen, Jim Cummings, William Sadler and Corbin Bernsen.The Yeti follows a group of explorers as they venture into the Alaskan wilderness - but the bleak elements are not the only danger they find lurking in the snowy mountains. Merging horror with adventure, The Yeti leads you on one journey and then takes you in a direction which is filled with some very intriguing twists and turns, Gallerano and Pisciotta joined Niall Browne on episode 99 of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about how they made this surprising horror. The pair discuss how they designed the look of this richly textured film, creating a monster for the screen as well as working with the ensemble cast. There’s a lot covered in this chat, which delves deep into the making of this excellent new genre film. 

Returning guest Pen Densham joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. Pen is a hugely talented writer, producer and director, who is probably best known for writing and producing Kevin Costner’s iconic 1991 adventure,  Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves alongside his film-making partner, John Watson. He also has a whole host of other interesting film credits to his name - including: Blown Away with Jeff Bridges and Tommy Lee Jones, cult favourite Tank Girl, Bill Murray comedy Larger Than Life and submarine thriller Phantom with David Duchovny and Ed Harris. On the TV front, Pen has also been involved in the reboot of The Outer Limits, Poltergeist: The Legacy and The Magnificent Seven, to name but a few.This time around I talked with Pen about his fascinating photography and his new coffee table book, Qualia. We also discussed his passion for creativity, Artificial Intelligence in film - and of course, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Kathryn Ferguson’s Nostalgie is an exceptional short film that was given an Honourable Mention in the competition shorts section at the Belfast Film Festival, where it wasBased on the short story by author Wendy Erskine (and adapted by Stacey Gregg), Nostalgie follows Drew Lord Haig (Aidan Gillen), a former ’80s pop star who is given a shot at reliving his glory years by taking a gig at a gathering of a small Belfast men’s club. Things aren’t quite what they seem, and Drew’s night of glory takes a dark turn.Nominated for Best Short Film at both the 2026 IFTA Awards and the 2026 BAFTA Awards, Nostalgie captured my attention from the moment I first watched it at the QFT in Belfast. Kathryn Ferguson joined the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about the film, chatting about everything from the film’s politics, the inspirations for the character of Drew Lord Haig, how Bastille’s Dan Smith wrote the music, and much more.

Jeremiah Kipp, the filmmaker behind the film adaptation of the video game, The Mortuary Assistant joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. Now, as I admit in my chat with Jeremiah, I haven’t played the video game - but I did enjoy the film! It’s an atmospheric horror that reminded by quite of a bit of the 1962 genre classic Carnival of Souls. It's a small, contained chiller that creeps along and gets under your skin. The Mortuary Assistant sees Willa Holland star as Rebecca Owens, a newly appointed assistant to Paul Sparks’ mortician, Raymond Delver. Her first night on the job doesn’t quite go to plan and soon things begin to go bump in the night. I caught up with director Jeremiah Kipp for a discussion that covered video game adaptations, horror movies, independent film versus superhero epics  and a whole lot more. It was a fun chat - one that’s a worth a listen for horror movie fans and gamers alike. 

Jesse V. Johnson’s Thieves Highway is a modern day western about cattle rustling, that sees Aaron Echkart’s cow cop tracking down a a bunch of seriously bad hombres. Written by Travis Mills - the director of the recent Frontier Crucible - Thieves Highway has hints of Fred Zinnemann’s High Noon and Carl Franklin’s One False Move. It’s a small, character-based thriller that has a strong central performance from Eckhart - who’s always great - and the film is also notable for the odd-ball characterisation of the villains. As a longtime fan of both Aaron Eckhart and Jesse V. Johnson, I’m thrilled that they’ve joined this episode of the podcast to talk about Thieves Highway, action movies and a whole lot more. 

Collins' Mel Gibson starrer, Hunting Season is something of surprise. Yes, it gives you want you want from a Mel Gibson thriller, but it’s also a film that features some excellent and finely tuned performances. Gibson, as you would expect is great, but so is the supporting cast. There’s a lot going on here and it’s sure to really engage viewers. The plot sees a reclusive survivalist (Gibson) and his daughter (Sofia Hublitz) rescue a mysterious, wounded woman (Shelley Hennig) from a river. The pair soon become entangled in a deadly web of violence and revenge, forcing them to confront a brutal criminal to survive.RJ Collins and Shelley Hennig join this bite-size episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about Hunting Season, working with Mel Gibson and how you bring a lot of creativity to an action film of this kind.

This is an exciting episode of the Movies In Focus podcast - because I’m not only joined by the mighty Thomas Jane (The Mist, The Punisher, Deep Blue Sea), the star and producer of the new western, Frontier Crucible - but I'm also also speaking to the film’s director, Travis Mills. Travis Mills embraces the western and delivers an interpretation of the genre that not only looks back to the past, but also takes a punchy modern-day approach that echoes the brutality of S. Craig Zahler’s Bone Tomahawk.I’ve been a fan of Thomas Jane’s for nearly thirty years, so it was an absolute privilege to spend time talking to him about Frontier Crucible, his career and film in general. In an equally engaging conversation, I also also spoke to director Travis Mills about the legacy of the western genre and how Frontier Crucible came to be. The Movies In Focus podcast is approaching its fifth year and hundredth episode - and I have to say that without a doubt, this is one of my favourite episodes. I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed recording it. 

Scott Martin, Michael Jai White, Charlotte Kirk and Stephanie Beran join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss their new film, Exit Protocol. Interviewed separately, these conversations offer thoughtful insights into the production of Exit Protocol, creative decisions, and the collaborative energy that shaped the film.It’s an interesting look at bringing the Dolph Lundgren film to the screen as each of the guests share their perspectives on filmmaking, working with the ensemble and what sets Exit Protocol apart from other action thrillers.

James Badge Dale (13 Hours, The Standoff At Sparrow Creek) and Michael Mando (Better Call Saul, Spider-Man) join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about their roles in John Swab’s latest film, King Ivory. Swab’s drug thriller explores the dangerous world of fentanyl trafficking in the U.S., offering a gritty glimpse into a society fighting for survival.In this interview, Dale and Mando discuss the challenges of portraying characters caught in the crossfire of the opioid crisis, what it was like working under Swab’s direction and the personal impact of bringing the tale to the screen. If you’re looking for insight into how real-world issues shape movies, then this is an episode for you.Oh, and we also talk quite a bit about my physical media collection that was lurking behind me on our Zoom call. It would seem that I might have committed to hosting movie night on Friday!

Filmmaker and actor Caleb Alexander Smith (The Catch, Modern Family) and his co-star David Krumholtz (Oppenheimer, The Santa Clause, Supergirl) join his episode of the the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss their thought provoking new film, Forelock. It’s a work that could easily slip under the radar in today’s crowded cinematic landscape - and that would be a massive shame.Forelock strikes an impressive balance: it deftly engages with the modern superhero conversation while simultaneously echoing the raw humanity and urban melancholy of the 1969 classic, Midnight Cowboy.This conversation dives into the Forelock's unique rhythm, its artistic intent, and how both Smith and Krumholtz approached creating something that really manages to resonate. 

British film producer and the man behind Shogun Films, Jonathan Sothcott joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss his impressive and varied career in the film industry. One of the most prolific figures in British genre cinema, Sothcott discusses his latest horror movie Helloween, the realities of producing independent films and how he’s built a career telling stories that connect with audiences worldwide. This conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and rewards of film-making, as well as Jonathan’s ongoing passion for creating bold and entertaining movies.

Film composer and singer-songwriter Tom Schraeder joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast for an in-depth conversation. Known for his emotionally charged music, Schraeder has built a career that bridges the worlds of songwriting and film scoring with ease. Composing music for films like The Dark And The Wicked, We’re Not Safe Here and Vicious, Schraeder is a musician who can add multiple layers to a film with the subtlest of scores.In this discussion, Tom reflects on his creative process, the transition from performing artist to composer, and how storytelling shapes his approach to music. From crafting intimate character pieces to scoring cinematic moments, he shares insights into balancing emotion, melody, and narrative.This is a fascinating episode for anyone interested in the craft of film music and the artistry that drives a composer’s work.

Writer-director Kiah Roache-Turner’s Beast Of War isn’t just another entry in the long tradition of shark films - it’s a pulse-pounding WWII thriller that delivers on both fronts.This Australian production stands out with its commitment to practical effects over CGI, keeping viewers on edge as a group of soldiers faces both a battle-scarred predator and the harsh realities of survival at sea.Kiah Roache-Turner joins this episode of the podcast to discuss the film’s cinematic inspirations, the challenges of shooting in an indoor water tank, and how Beast Of War channels the spirit of Australian New Wave war movies like Gallipoli and Attack Force Z.This conversation offers an inside look at the film’s gritty visuals, standout performances, and the creative choices that make this shark adventure a genre standout. 

This time around, Charlotte Kirk and Zach McGowan, the stars of Neil Marshall's new erotic thriller, Compulsion join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. Co-starring Anna-Maria Sieklucka, Compulsion delivers a throwback punch, homaging the shadowy style of Italian giallo and the sleazy vibe of 80s and 90s erotic thrillers. Kirk and McGowan discuss what drew them to its dark, complex characters and the film’s tightly wound, high-stakes narrative. The pair dive into the challenges and rewards of working on a film loaded with moral - and both Kirk and McGowan talk about working with Neil Marshall - and the intensity of Compulsion’s bloodiest sequence.

Neil Marshall’s Compulsion is not only a homage to the blood-soaked Italian giallo, but also a throwback to the kind of erotic thrillers that Hollywood churned out in the 1980s and 1990s - think Dario Argento meets Brian De Palma, Starring Anna-Maria Sieklucka, Charlotte Kirk and Zach McGowan, the Malta set pic is a twisty and turny thriller that throws in a lot of left turns - and it will keep you guessing until the end. Compulsion’s writer-director, Neil Marshall (Dog Soldiers, The Descent), returns to the Movies In Focus podcast along with the film’s star, Anna-Maria Sieklucka (365 Days, The Next 365 Days). They discuss the throwback nature of the film, filming a tale with such complex characterisation, Compulsion’s pivotal - and very bloody - standout sequence and much, much more.

Actors Hayley McFarland and Sharmita Bhattacharya, the captivating leads of writer/director Solomon Gray’s quietly unnerving horror We're Not Safe Here, join this episode of Movies In Focus podcast. We're Not Safe Here is a horror film that sidesteps typical genre tropes, offering a carefully crafted, slow-burning chill that lingers well beyond the closing credits. Hayley and Sharmita delve into their richly layered performances, unpacking the emotional weight and human fears that elevate the film above conventional horror fare. They explore the creative nuances behind the film’s unsettling atmosphere and haunting storytelling - this is a must-listen for fans of intelligent, introspective genre cinema.

Action Auteur, Renny Harlin joins this special bite-sized episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. In the 1990s, Harlin delivered some of the decade’s most memorable and entertaining films like Die Hard 2, Cliffhanger, The Long Kiss Goodnight - and my favourite go-to killer shark film, Deep Blue Sea. Now he’s turning his attention back to horror with The Strangers: Chapter 2 - the follow-up to last year's hit entry in the home invasion franchise. Harlin discusses what drew him to the material, how he approached building tension in this new chapter, and reflects on a career that has constantly balanced spectacle, style, and scares. I also managed to squeeze in a question about his newest shark thriller, Deep Water.

n this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast, writer-director Bill Fishman talks about his sun-soaked comedy Waltzing With Brando - the true story of Marlon Brando’s quest to build an eco-paradise in Tahiti, brilliantly brought to life by Billy Zane’s note-perfect and layered performance. Fishman, known for celebrating quirky real-life tales, discusses how Waltzing With Brando sidesteps weighty drama in favour of breezy high jinks and zesty energy, with Jon Heder playing the straight man as Bernard Judge, Brando’s bewildered architect. Together, they recreate iconic Brando moments in a relaxed, 'holiday of a film' that feels as playful and unpredictable as its subject. Fishman also reminisces about working with Monkee, Michael Nesmith on the '80s cult classic Tapeheads and how working with 'The Nez' shaped his approach to storytelling. This conversation is a must for anyone fascinated by Brando, behind-the-scenes tales, and the pure enjoyment of an unhurried cinematic romp. Read the Movies In Focus review of Waltzing With Brando

Solomon Gray, writer and director of the quietly unsettling horror film, We're Not Safe Here, joins the Movies In Focuspodcast for an in-depth conversation. We're Not Safe Here is deft little chiller that is notable for its ability to get under your skin with subtle psychological horror rather than cheap shocks. Solomon discusses the inspirations behind the film, the creative challenges of crafting a slow-burn thriller, and the emotional depths explored through the nuanced performances of Hayley McFarland and Sharmita Bhattacharya. Fans of intelligent, atmospheric genre cinema won’t want to miss this insightful chat. Read the Movies In Focus review of We're Not Safe Here

Director M.J. Bassett and actor Matilda Lutz join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about their new fantasy adventure film, Red Sonja. The movie brings the cult comic-book character back to the screen, and as noted in the Movies In Focus review, it’s a bold reimagining that puts Lutz front and centre as the sword-wielding warrior. Her performance as Red Sonja grounds the film and gives real weight to a character that’s had a complicated history in cinema. M.J. Bassett’s career has always explored genre storytelling, from action to horror, and here she tackles the challenge of reviving a legendary figure with fresh energy. Together, they’ve crafted a film that blends classic fantasy with modern sensibilities. In this conversation, they discuss the process of bringing Red Sonja to life, the character’s enduring appeal, and what audiences can expect when they step back into her world.

Actress and filmmaker, Megan Tremethick joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss her acclaimed low-budget epic, The Reign Of Queen Ginnarra (read the Movies In Focus review). Megan explores the inspiration behind the Roger Corman-esque film and how she ended up bringing the enigmatic queen to life on screen.  Megan also discusses her journey as a filmmaker, her approach to storytelling, and what drives her passion for cinema. Whether you’re a fan of low-budget genre films or just love hearing about the artistic and creative process, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. If you enjoyed this interview with Megan  - and like her work - then you can support the Kickstarter campaign for Mr. Whispers, a 90s-inspired horror film that plunges you into a nightmarish tale of VHS-era dread and mystery. Discover more information Mr. Whispers. 

Ernesto Díaz Espinoza, the filmmaker behind the stylish and brutal new thriller Diablo joins this latest episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. Espinoza has been flying the flag for genre cinema in Chile for nearly 20 years—serving up everything from hard-hitting martial arts action to offbeat exploitation throwbacks. With Diablo, he’s crafted something lean, atmospheric, and incredibly well acted. Think Man on Fire by way of Terminator 2. We discuss making Diablo, working with actors like Scott Adkins, and delivering an old-school film with limited resources. If you like stylish and punchy action movies, you’ll want to hear this.

Film scholar and returning guest James Kenney has a knack for uncovering lost and forgotten cinematic treasures. You can listen to episodes 18 and 32 of the Movies In Focus podcast to learn about his headline-making work on Peter Bogdanovich’s Squirrels To The Nuts and the rediscovery of the original version of the Keanu Reeves and Ana de Armas film, God’s Daughter. James now returns to discuss his latest find: Brian De Palma’s ‘lost’ film script, Ambrose Chapel. The now-published screenplay features an introductory essay from James, which examines De Palma’s fascinating and stylish career as a master of suspense. Written by De Palma in the 1990s between Carlito’s Way and Mission: Impossible, audiences can finally catch sight of De Palma’s 'screwball noir'. Virtual reality, mind control, and De Palma’s famed voyeurism are the order of the day for this Hitchcock-inspired, Mexico City-set thriller. James digs into the origins of Ambrose Chapel, exploring how it fits within many of De Palma’s signature themes. The conversation takes a broader look at De Palma’s legendary career, tracing his evolution as a filmmaker and examining how Ambrose Chapel fits into the director’s cinematic legacy - ultimately offering a look at one of Hollywood’s most misunderstood auteurs. AMBROSE CHAPEL - A screenplay by Brian De Palma is out now from Sticking Place Books www.stickingplacebooks.com

Acclaimed horror author Adam Cesare joins this bite-sized episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about the recording breaking film adaptation of his novel Clown In A Cornfield. Known for his mastery of slasher thrills and sharp social commentary, Adam Cesare's book - and its film adaptation - charts the chilling story of Kettle Springs-a town divided and terrorised by the homicidal killer clown, Frendo. Adam explores the transformation of this bloody, original tale from page to screen, discusses the challenges and creative choices behind adapting a young adult horror novel that balances gore, suspense and small-town tensions.

Short films are difficult. It’s easy to tell a story across 90 minutes or a couple of hours, where plot and characterisation can expand and grow. However, it takes real skill to deliver something short, punchy (and more importantly) narratively cohesive within a couple of minutes. This takes us nicely along to Dakota Stone, a new short from director Sherice Griffiths and writer Alfie Scattergood (aka Paul Knight). Clocking-in at just nine minutes, the film features professional dancer, choreographer, and star of the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, Nancy Xu as an ass-kicking ‘fixer’. Offering-up action and characterisation, Dakota Stone is an entertaining little flick that works well within its own confines, while also feeling like an amuse-bouche to a much larger story. Sherice Griffiths, Alfie Scattergood and Nancy Xu joined the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about Dakota Stone. During the course of the conversation, they discuss how the project came together, the logistics of making a short film in a limited timeframe - as well as teasing the future of the Dakota Stone character in a larger format.

Writer-director Torsten Ruether joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss his boxing drama, Uppercut. The film marks Ruether's English-language debut, adapted from his 2021 film Leberhaken, and features an impressive cast, including Ving Rhames, Luise Grossmann, Joanna Cassidy and Jordan E. Cooper. Uppercut tells the story of Toni, a determined female boxer, and her journey with Elliott, a tough ex-boxing champion played by Rhames. Torsten Ruether talks about making Uppercut, working with Ving Rhames and how the film developed and evolved from its early origins. Uppercut is out now in U.S. cinemas, On Demand and On Digital.

First-up there's Martin Campbell, the director of the acclaimed James Bond films Goldeneye with Pierce Brosnan and Casino Royale starring Daniel Craig. This is followed by a chat with Simon West, the director of the iconic ’90s Nicolas Cage pic, Con Air and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie. Martin Campbell discusses his new film, Cleaner, a high-rise action pic starring Star Wars star, Daisy Ridley and Clive Owen. We not only talk about the practicalities of making an action film, but we also cover 30 years of Goldeneye, the legacy of the James Bond franchise, as well as why we haven’t had a belated second sequel to his brilliant 1998 film, The Mask Of Zorro, starring Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. This was my third time interviewing the great Simon West, so we had great fun talking about keeping interviews fresh, as well as his new comedic action film, Old Guy. Shot and set in Belfast, the film stars the eclectic combination of Christoph Waltz, Cooper Hoffman and Lucy Liu. Simon talks about filming in Belfast and why he was so eager to ditch the stereotype of Northern Ireland’s violent past and shoot the province as a contemporary European location.

Director Michael Polish joins the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about his latest action thriller, Alarum. Fresh off the heels of its January 17th release, this high-octane spy flick stars Sylvester Stallone, Scott Eastwood, and Willa Fitzgerald. The film sees two married spies - Joe and Laura Travers - who find themselves hunted by intelligence agencies after discovering a mysterious flash drive This conversation covers Polish's motivations for the project, his collaboration with Scott Eastwood, the intricate character dynamics that elevate this film beyond a typical spy pic - and the joys of online interviews. 

Kimball Farley, the star and co-writer of the new off-beat indie film Hippo joins this episode of the Movies In Focuspodcast. Directed by Mark H. Rapaport, Hippo is a black-and-white coming-of-age story set in the 1990s that explores the lives of two step-siblings. The film's quirky tone - reminiscent of the films of Wes Anderson - is complemented by Eric Roberts' excellent voice-over, which adds depth to the narrative's stylised storytelling. Kimball discusses the creative process behind Hippo, its unique storytelling approach, and uncovers what makes this film a standout in modern indie cinema

Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sanchez, the directors of the iconic horror film The Blair Witch Project join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. Released in 1999, the film not only essentially created the found-footage genre but it also left an indelible mark on the landscape of independent cinema. Daniel and Eduardo share their insights on the film's production - everything from its unique marketing strategy to the challenges they faced in bringing their vision to life. This is a fascinating conversation with two filmmakers who pushed the boundaries of cinema and redefined horror storytelling. It’s an engaging discussion that will illuminate the legacy of a film that continues to inspire filmmakers and frighten audiences around the world 25 years on. that continues to inspire filmmakers and frighten audiences around the world

Action superstar Scott Adkins joins this bite-sized episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about his latest film Take Cover - a high-octane one-location action flick that’s a real must for fans of the genre. Known for his athletic turns in films like Accident Man, Undisputed, John Wick Chapter 4 and The Expendables 2, Scott has entertained audiences with his martial arts prowess and charismatic screen presence. Scott spoke over Zoom to discuss his work in action movies, CGI versus stunt work, his passion for film-making - as well as the potential of him suiting up as iconic superhero, Batman.

Two very different directors talk about two very different films on this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast. First-up, Kevin Smith talks about his 1980s set comedy, The 4:30 Movie and then later in the episode Euros Lyn discusses his vampire-comedy, The Radleys. Kevin Smith was one of the leading figures in the 1990s independent film scene. His self-financed low-budget comedy Clerks was a massive success and he went on to make the likes of Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back, Jersey Girl and others. Working with rep company that includes the likes of Ben Affleck, Jason Lee, Jason Mewes and Matt Damon, Smith’s films have also had a strong autobiographical bent, incorporating moments and characters from his own life and adding his own style of acerbic wit. His latest film, The 4:30 Movie is his most autobiographical yet- a 1980s set coming of age story that not only takes place within the confines of Smith’s home state of New Jersey - but also his very own SmodCastle cinema. It’s a witty and heartfelt film that delivers the goods for fans of his work and those looking for a well-honed comedy. Kevin Smith talks about digging into his past to make the film, shooting in your own cinema - as well as the possibility of a Mallrats sequel. To say that Welsh director Euros Lyn has had an illustrious career would be an understatement. His career as a director is littered with some of the television’s top shows including - Casualty, Doctor Who, Torchwood, Sherlock, Broadchurch, Happy Valley, Daredevil, His Dark Materials and Heartstopper. Lyn’s new film, The Radleys is based on Matt Haig’s book of the same name - and it stars Damian Lewis and Kelly Macdonald as a married couple with a young family - and they all just happen to be vampires. Euros Lyn’s chat about The Radleys covers bringing the material to the screen and getting such a great cast for his vampire film.

Director Mikael Håfström joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss his latest film, Slingshot, a space thriller starring Casey Affleck and Laurence Fishburne. Mikael is no stranger to crafting tense, atmospheric films, having directed works like his adaptation of Stephen King’s 1408 starring John Cusack and the Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger team-up, Escape Plan . With Slingshot, he explores themes of isolation, survival, and the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds. In our conversation, we explore the challenges of filming a space-based thriller, working with a stellar cast, and how Mikael approached the unique visual and narrative elements of this ambitious project. So strap in and prepare for launch as we take a deep dive into the making of Slingshot.

Directed by Adam Nelson and written by Chris Watt, The Mire is a well-honed dramatic thriller which grabs your attention and draws you into its tense plot. Essentially a one-location, three-hander,  the low-budget film knows exactly what to do with its limited resources and it keeps you hooked until its surprising finale. Returning guest Adam Nelson and newcomer Chris Watt both join this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about the origins of The Mire, how the story developed and the challenges of making a low-budget independent film.

Director Joe Stephenson joins this episode of the Movies In Focus podcast to discuss his latest film, Doctor Jekyll. This film marks a significant moment for Hammer Studios, being their first horror release since the company's acquisition by the aptly named John Gore. Starring, Eddie Izzard and Scott Chambers, the film offers a fresh take on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale Joe shares insights into the creative process behind Doctor Jekyll, the challenges of reimagining such a beloved story, and his collaboration with Eddie Izzard in bringing this gothic story to life. He also discusses Midas Man, his forthcoming biopic of Brian Epstein, the manager of The Beatles.

Dog Soldiers, The Descent and Doomsday filmmaker Neil Marshall joins the Movies In Focuspodcast to talk about his new gangster film, Duchess alongside its star, co-writer and producer Charlotte Kirk. The pair previously collaborated on the action-horror The Lair and the mediaeval thriller, The Reckoning.  With Duchess, Marshall delivers a fast-paced revenge thriller where Kirk’s working-class criminal dives into the glamorous – and sometimes not so glamorous – world of diamond smuggling. With strong visuals and explosive action, the film showcases her transformation into a fierce anti-heroine.  They pair talk the creative process behind the film, explore the characters, and discuss the challenges they faced along the way. It’s always a pleasure to hear first-hand from the people who bring stories to life, as we uncover what makes Duchess a refreshing modern-day gangster pic with an old-school charm.

On this episode, Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the brilliant At The Flicks podcast discuss Kevin Costner's western epic, Horizon: An American Saga. We'll be putting our collective expertise to work as we explore Costner's latest directorial effort, examining its place within the western genre and its potential impact on cinema. So let's saddle up and ride off into the sunset with Jeff and Graham as we unpack the ambitious multi-part movie saga and what it means for Costner's legacy. Stay tuned for an insightful discussion that promises to be as expansive as the American frontier itself. Discover more from At The Flicks

Director Alejandro Brugués goes for old-fashioned chills and offers up some slow-burn horror with his excellent new horror, The Inheritance. It can be difficult to have sympathy for characters who have immense wealth and privilege – especially when you’re not supposed to like them. However, The Inheritance gets the balance just right – and along with some good casting choices, you’ll be somewhat conflicted when the Abernathys start to die - and Rachel Nichols and David Walton make for a particularly entertaining dastardly duo. Both star Rachel Nichols and director Alejandro Brugués join the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about The Inheritance. Alejandro goes into some wonderful detail about the making of the film - and Rachel delivers some truly fascinating insight into her process as an actress.

Written by Joe Russo and Chris LaMont, The Inheritance delivers old-fashioned chills and offers up some slow-burn horror. The quick pitch is to call the Alejandro Brugués directed film a well-balanced mix of Knives Out and The House On Haunted Hill by way of The Haunting Of Hill House and Succession. There’s a sophistication and understanding of the horror genre that shows a real understanding of how these things work on a story level. Joe Russo and Chris LaMont joined the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about their writing process and how The Inheritance made it to the screen.

Shane Dax Taylor’s Murder Company is an old-fashioned World War II men on a mission movie. On Demand now in the U.S., the film stars  William Moseley, Pooch Hall, Gilles Marini, Joe Anderson and Kelsey Grammer. The plot follows a group of US soldiers as they attempt to smuggle a member of the French resistance behind enemy lines so that he can assassinate a high-value Nazi target. Star Gilles Marini and director Shane Dax Taylor joined the Movies In Focus podcast to talk about the film, the reasons for making it and the complexities of making a film set during the Second World War. This is a fascinating episode - especially when Gilles Marini delves deep into his family history to talk about his grandmother’s resistance work during the war. It's heartfelt and passionate stuff.