The Gala Show

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down with Emmy Award winning video editor and fellow Filmpower member Jason-Christopher Mayer to discuss mental health.  The two start off by discussing the places they grew up before they move into the importance of friendship and the dating scene in Los Angeles.  First, Gala asks how growing up in Philadelphia influenced Jason's love for film.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats virtually with the director (Alex Ross Perry) and editor (Clyde Folley) of the new video essay / documentary Videoheaven about the importance of spaces like video stores and movie theaters.  Alex and Clyde walk us through their memories at the video store, the way that VHS shaped their careers, and how spaces have changed.  First, Gala asks how they discover movies without the videstore to help

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats virtually with directing (and life) partners David Joseph Craig & Brian Crano about the process of adoption.  In this raw conversation, David and Brian share their real life struggles with the process, advice they wish they had known when it came to adopting, and how their experiences inspired them to make their newest movie, I Don't Understand You.  First, Gala has to ask: how did they meet? I Don't Understand You hits theaters June 6th, 2025.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats virtually with director Jonathan Entwistle all about what the audience wants.  Jonathan shares with Gala how his perspective as an audience member affects his filmmaking, the difference between television and movies, and how streaming changed the industry.  First, Gala asks one of her favorite questions: what film made Jonathan want to make movies? Jonathan's newest movie, Karate Kid: Legends, hits theaters May 30th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats with director Julia Max about female directed horror movies.  Julia talks with Gala about what she classifies as a horror movie, her theories on what makes a good horror movie, and which movies we love are directed by women.  First, a question about the movie that got her interested in filmmaking.  

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats with Chris Candy about being scattered.  Chris shares with Gala his reflections looking back on his life, how the modern age has contributed, and the steps he's taking to change his mindset.  First, a question about what lessons he learned from his father John Candy.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down with two members of the Los Angeles based band Mosaic Coyote (Ethan Estrada & Andrew Naranjo) to talk about music.  Ethan and Andrew share with Gala where they draw inspiration from, how being best friends allows them to dedicate themselves to their music, and their musical forefathers -- but first, a question about how they just met (and two different answers). Mosaic Coyote's self titled album is available for streaming all over.  Catch them playing at Aviator Nation Dreamland on April 25th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats with director Natasha Kermani all about masculinity.  Natasha shares with Gala her film influences, the male centric stories that interest her, and why she was drawn to tell a story about fathers and sons.  First, a question about the movies that got her interested in horror. Be on the lookout for Natasha's latest movie, Abraham's Boys, once it's in theaters.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala geeks out with film influencer Manny Liotta over color in film.  Manny chats with Gala about how color makes him feel, the ways that poster design in movies has changed, and which films have affected his upcoming musical.  First, a question about physical media.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats with Emmy award winning investigative journalist Rob Koebel all about rewriting your life.  Rob shares with Gala the highs and lows of his life, if he would have done things differently, and the importance of gratitude.  Before they begin, Gala has a question about investigative journalism.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala meets up with director Ami Canaan Mann to talk about lenses.  Ami shares with Gala her love for photography, the importance of both a physical lens and a metaphorical lens, and how her life inspires her work -- but first, a question about the most important lesson her father, Michael Mann, taught her. Ami's newest movie, Audrey's Children, is in theaters March 28th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala visits Dr. Peter Weller to chat about his life as an eternal student.  Dr. Peter shares with Gala the lessons he learned from his mother, how being humble changed his perspective on everything, and exactly what it is about the Renaissance that he loves -- but first, a question about the trumpet. Dr. Peter Weller's latest book, Leon Battista Alberti in Exile is available now for preorder.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala meets up with filmmaking duo Dan Berk & Bobby Olsen to talk about creative partnerships.  Dan & Bobby share with Gala how they met by chance (or fate!) at NYU, the way they split their responsibilities on set, and how they keep their partnership alive.  Before they get into the conversation, Gala has a question about what movies got them interested in filmmaking. Their newest feature, Novocaine, is in theaters starting March 14th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out Los Angeles native Casey Longstreet to talk about her diagnosis of breast cancer.  At only 26 years old, Casey has been sharing her journey with the diagnosis over on Instagram.  Casey shares with Gala invaluable knowledge about the P53 gene and a raw and honest discussion about the ups and downs of her diagnosis.  Before the girls get into it, Gala has a question for Casey about her favorite movie. This episode was recorded shortly before the Palisades Fire.  Casey's family home was unfortunately lost in the disaster, but I've been fortunate to hear many stories about that home from Casey -- and it just proves the importance of sharing family memories with others, because you don't know who you may inspire or touch through them.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with filmmaker Zalman Band to talk about the making of his debut feature Subscriber.  Zalman shares with Gala what it was like growing up in the business, what it was like being the director on set, and a little bit about his movie -- but first, a question about the knowledge his father, Charlie Band, emparted upon him.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with actor and vegan chef Ayinde Howell to talk about conspiracy theories.  Ayinde shares with Gala which theories he's been researching, how TikTok reminds him of the good old days of the internet, and the secrets behind wifi.  Before he get into it, Gala has a question about growing up as a vegan.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with actress Barbara Crampton to talk about movies that "go there".  Barbara starts out the conversation by sharing with Gala some of the movies she's seen recently that fit into this genre before the two talk about Barbara's own roles.  If they had been today, would people have been as shocked?  Before the girls get into it, Gala has a question about where Barbara feels most at peace.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down with filmmaker Josh Ruben to discuss life after the Eaton Fire.  Josh shares with Gala how the fire impacted his family, what draws him to a movie, and what Los Angeles means to him  — but first, a question about the movie that inspired him to make films. Josh's newest movie, Heart Eyes, is in theaters starting February 7th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down with filmmaker Drew Hancock to talk about his experiences with imposter syndrome.  Drew shares with Gala the path that led him to become a filmmaker and explains to her how his new film Companion was a way for him to explore his own battles with impster syndrome  — but first, a question about his favorite movie.

Each month this season, Gala features a returning guest on the mic.  For the month of January, Steven Meiers Dominguez aka Toastycakes (S1E11) comes back to defend the CRT.  Steven explains to Gala the importance of stumbling upon media, why the internet is rotting our brains, and tender moments with his grandmother — but first, a question about his dream film stock.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with actor Joel Michaely to talk about ... well, whatever they feel like!  Joel shares with Gala his love for musicals, his experiences as an Angelino, and how he met her father on Rules of Attraction  — but first, a question about his favorite movie.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with the Empress of Air herself, Kira Mae Kazuko, to discuss perception of reality.  Kira shares with Gala how breath work helped her actualize who she is, how self love can change how you see others, and what's next on her journey  — but first, a question about her favorite movie.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with filmmaker Dean Alioto to talk about his favorite movie: Close Encounters of the Third Kind.  Dean shares with Gala how he first saw this movie, his theories behind the film, and how it shaped him as an artist  — but first, a question about how his own movie, The Mcpherson Tapes, found its audience on VHS.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala pulls an episode out of the vault from a past discussion with multi-hyphenate Ian Nelson.  Ian starts the conversation off by talking about his beginnings in North Carolina before the duo go on tangents about projects they've worked on together, the meaning behind starsigns and tarot, and the importance of family  — but first, a question about how 2020 changed his life.

With 2024 coming to a close, Gala sits down with Roger to discuss her favorite films of 2024 and the discoveries she's made along the way.  As an added New Years bonus, Gala and Roger do it all on video!   Click HERE for the video version. Also, check us out over on Patreon.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with female empowerment coach Krystal Centinello to discuss the concept of people pleasing.  Krystal shares with Gala the importance of creating healthy boundaries in all relationships, the negative effects of people pleasing, and her own journey to being confident  — but first, a question about how poetry can help you find your voice. Want to know if you're a people pleaser?  Take Krystal's quiz here. Krystal's upcoming 1 hour workshop "From Trauma to Triumph: Setting Boundaries that Transform" happens on January 25th.  Interested in finding out more?  Click here.

Each month this season, Gala features a returning guest on the mic.  For the month of December, Mick Garris (S1E1) comes back to the show to chat about the movies we loved that came out in 2024.  Mick explains to Gala his thoughts on awards shows, what he looks for in a horror movie, and just what was so special about The Substance — but first, a question about non-horror movies.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with Matt Landsman (Video Archives Cinema Club manager, movie programmer at Be Kind Video) to discuss paranormal experiences.  Matt shares with Gala the strange dreams he's had recently, how his upbringing influenced his love of horror, and why he wants to interact with the paranormal  — but first, a question about horror movies. PS: Happy birthday Matt!!!!!!!

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down at Filmpower with one half of Scanners Inc — NC-17 — to chat all about how the company got started.  Peter shares with Gala how he first started collecting 16mm, the difference between film and digital, and where he sees his company going — but first, a question about the movies he shows his son.  

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sneaks into the magical workshop of Aaron LaPlante to discuss the power of nostalgia.  Aaron shares with Gala why he started Emotional Support Objects Inc., the way that media impacted him as a kid, and how nostalgia brings us together.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala spends time with jazz pianist Lisa Hilton to talk about creativity.  Lisa shares with Gala the musicians she loves, the best ways to exercize your creative muscles, and how she put together her new album Lucky All Along  — but first, a question about her favorite movie. Lisa's newest album Lucky All Along is available for streaming and purchase on Apple, Amazon, and wherever you get your music.  You can also find her on her website and on YouTube.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down with director Steven C. Miller to talk about his time working with veteran actors.  Steven shares how he got his start in the industry, what it was like working with actors such as Bruce Willis and Sylvester Stallone, and how each actor has imparted a different lesson upon him   — but first, a question about the movies he shows his children.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala and her dad Roger Avary hang out on Thanksgiving.  Roger's topic: the theme of gratitude.  Roger and Gala start off by comparing It's a Wonderful Life and Taxi Driver before going into other films of the 1970's that may have this theme — but first, a question about what Roger is thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Each month this season, Gala features a returning guest on the mic.  For the month of November, Larry Karaszewski (S1E3) comes back to the show to chat about Black & White Films in the Color Era.  Larry shares with Gala a bit about how Ed Wood came to be shot in black & white, the reason why filmmakers choose it over color, and his favorite black & white movies  — but first, a question about which movies he showed his kids. Larry's comprehensive list of Black & White Films in the Color era can be found here.   SUBSCRIBE NOW! Available EVERYWHERE! This is not a dream -- this is really happening!

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats with wellness professional Angel DeSantis all about living in color.  Angel shares with Gala her experiences growing up in The Children of God, how her recent trip abroad changed her perspectives on Los Angeles, and what's next for her in her journey   — but first, a question about her favorite movie.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala geeks out with actor (and cinematographer!) Giovanni Ribisi.  Giovanni shares with Gala the economics behind making a movie in today's day and age, his lifelong love for cinema, and the ways that young filmmakers can shoot on film  — but first, a question about what movies he shows his children. If you haven't already, I urge you to check out Strange Darling, shot entirely on Kodak 500T, 250D, 50D, and 35mm.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with her Video Archives Podcast co-producer Josh Richmond to talk about a new theory he is developing on modern jewish filmmaking.  Josh explains to Gala the criteria for this genre, his thoughts and opinions on these films, and exactly what draws him to them — but first, a question about the video game he's developing.   Josh Richmond's video game Doomsday is available now!

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats with Japanese horror historian Jasper Sharp all about Matango (Attack of the Mushroom People).  Jasper reveals to Gala his love of mycology, how Japanese horror evolved over the years, and why everyone should watch this flick  — but first, a question about why he was drawn to Japanese cinema. Jasper's documentary The J-Horror Virus is available now on Shudder.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala talks with documentarian Sarah Applton about her love for the found footage genre.  Sarah shares with Gala the gateway movies for the genre, what makes a successful found footage film, and the possibility to create a movie of her own  — but first, a question about the movie that got her interested in filmmaking. Sarah's documentary The J-Horror Virus is available now on Shudder.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala goes to Monsterpalooza 2024 to meet illustrator Dan Brereton and geek out about Halloween.  Dan shares with Gala his childhood memories of Halloween, what makes the perfect costume, and how he keeps the holiday alive year round   — but first, a question about his favorite non spooky movie.

Each month this season, Gala features a returning guest on the mic.  For the month of October, Chris Alexander (S1E20) comes back to the show to chat about KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park.  Chris explains to Gala how he was first introduced to the band KISS, how he first saw this film, and what this movie means to its fans — but first, a question about how fatherhood has changed his perception on cinema.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala meets filmmaker Ethan Berger to chat all about their favorite movies.  Ethan shares with Gala how All That Jazz affected him, how viewing movies at different times in your life can shape you, and a bit about the films that influenced his directorial debut The Line  — but first, a question about his favorite video game. Ethan's new movie, The Line (starring Alex Wolff, Bo Mitchell, and Lewis Pullman) will be in theaters starting October 18th.

Can you believe that it's been a full year since Gala started conducting her interviews?  52 interviews and 3 bonus episodes later, we are ready to wrap up the year in a nice little bow.  For her Season One Wrap-Up, Roger hijacks the show to ask Gala your burning questions in this mega-episode hang out.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with writer Ian McDonald to hear all about his favorite true crime movies.  Ian shares with Gala what draws him to the genre, what overlapping themes his picks share, and how to be comfortable in the uncomfortable  — but first, a question about the films he made when he was younger. Ian's new film, Woman of the Hour (directed by Anna Kendrick) is streaming on Netflix on October 18th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala ditches her timer to chat with Type AB (Brian Netto & Adam Schindler) about their favorite debut feature films.  Brian and Adam share with Gala 3 of their favorite flicks.  The trio chat about why they picked the movies, their experiences watching them, and how the films affected their creative lives — but first, a question about how this directing duo met and where they got their name. Type AB's new film, Don't Move, is streaming on Netflix starting October 25th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala meets up with filmmaker Greg Jardin to chat about genre mash-ups.  Greg shares with Gala some of the best genre mash-ups he's seen, how he combined genres for his new film It's What's Inside, and how auteurs change the industry — but first, a question about the movie that got him interested in filmmaking.   Greg's new film It's What's Inside is available on Netflix starting October 4th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala hangs out with filmmaker Michael Felker to chat about his favorite "oh shit, it's on!" moments in cinema.  Michael shares with Gala the movies that give him goosebumps, how his dad imparted the importance of "it's on" to him, and some of his favorite moments that capture this sentiment  — but first, a question about his favorite video game. Michael's new movie, Things Will Be Different, will will be available on streaming and in theaters October 4th.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down with filmmaker Al Warren (Dogleg) to chat about generational movie sharing.  Al shares with Gala the movies that his son is gravitating towards, the films that his father and grandfather shared with him, and his general philosophies on cinema  — but first, a question about the movie that got him interested in filmmaking. Dogleg is now available for pre-order at Vinegar Syndrome.

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala chats with composer (and godfather!) Andy Milburn all about art and its intersection with technology.  Andy shares with Gala how technology has always been utilized in his work, the ethics of AI with music, and his idea of where he sees the future of the music industry  — but first, a question about the other half of tomandandy: Tom Hadju. SUBSCRIBE NOW! Available EVERYWHERE! This is not a dream -- this is really happening!

On this episode of The Gala Show, Gala sits down with comedian Jon Gabrus to chat about his comfort genre: journalism movies.  Jon shares with Gala the importance of the underdog, how watching movies brought him and his dad closer together, and which films in this genre are his favorite — but first, a question about growing up on Long Island. SUBSCRIBE NOW! Available EVERYWHERE! This is not a dream -- this is really happening!