As today’s screenwriters and actors grapple with financial challenges in a rapidly changing showbiz landscape, combined strikes by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA have brought Hollywood to a standstill. Productions are stalled, press tours canceled, and the 2023 Emmys postponed. The economic impact is expected to far surpass that of the last writers’ strike, which cost the L.A. economy more than 2 billion dollars. On this episode of “The Envelope,” hosts Yvonne Villarreal and Mark Olsen discuss the issues underlying this historic strike, pay disparities in streaming, and concerns over the rise of AI with L.A. Times film reporter Josh Rottenberg and actor Sarah Ramos — a member of the SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

As today’s screenwriters and actors grapple with financial challenges in a rapidly changing showbiz landscape, combined strikes by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA have brought Hollywood to a standstill. Productions are stalled, press tours canceled, and the 2023 Emmys postponed. The economic impact is expected to far surpass that of the last writers’ strike, which cost the L.A. economy more than 2 billion dollars. On this episode of “The Envelope,” hosts Yvonne Villarreal and Mark Olsen discuss the issues underlying this historic strike, pay disparities in streaming, and concerns over the rise of AI with L.A. Times film reporter Josh Rottenberg and actor Sarah Ramos — a member of the SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee. <a href="https://link.chtbl.com/TheEnvelopePodcast?sid=website" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.</a>

AI, self-tapes and weekends: The stakes of the Hollywood strikes

Melanie Lynskey

On the occasion of scoring double Emmy nominations this year for her performances in "Yellowjackets" and "The Last of Us," Mark and Yvonne revisit a favorite conversation with Melanie Lynskey. Since her 1994 debut in “Heavenly Creatures,” Melanie Lynskey has been acting steadily while “flying comfortably right under the radar.” Now, for her electric role on “Yellowjackets,” Lynskey has earned an Emmy nomination for outstanding lead actress in a drama series — and a whole new level of fame. In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, she dishes on feeling more empowered and less underestimated as of late, arriving at a place of self-love after struggling with an eating disorder, and why roles of women who take up a lot of space appeal to her. Oh, and there’s also a delightful story about a Nick Cave concert, a charming Drew Barrymore impression, and a brief visit from a very special guest. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

On the occasion of scoring double Emmy nominations this year for her performances in "Yellowjackets" and "The Last of Us," Mark and Yvonne revisit a favorite conversation with Melanie Lynskey. Since her 1994 debut in “Heavenly Creatures,” Melanie Lynskey has been acting steadily while “flying comfortably right under the radar.” Now, for her electric role on “Yellowjackets,” Lynskey has earned an Emmy nomination for outstanding lead actress in a drama series — and a whole new level of fame. In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, she dishes on feeling more empowered and less underestimated as of late, arriving at a place of self-love after struggling with an eating disorder, and why roles of women who take up a lot of space appeal to her. Oh, and there’s also a delightful story about a Nick Cave concert, a charming Drew Barrymore impression, and a brief visit from a very special guest. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2022-08-02/melanie-lynskey-yellowjackets-emmy-nomination-shauna" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

Melanie Lynskey (Encore)

Jessica Williams

Jessica Williams is no stranger to tackling complicated issues with humor. From being the youngest and first Black woman correspondent on “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart” to now starring opposite Jason Segel and Harrison Ford on the AppleTV+ show “Shrinking,” Williams uses her improv skills and authenticity not only to entertain but also to hit on deep truths. “Grief settles in and it just changes you,” she says. “It doesn’t leave. It just makes a home in your body.”In this episode of “The Envelope,” Williams reflects on how personal experiences, including her years of therapy and the death of her partner, have shaped her performance. She also gets into her view of the “Black lady therapist” trope, the controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling and transgender rights, and what she learned while making the “Fantastic Beasts” films. Plus, Williams offers tips on “decolonizing” your garden. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Jessica Williams is no stranger to tackling complicated issues with humor. From being the youngest and first Black woman correspondent on “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart” to now starring opposite Jason Segel and Harrison Ford on the AppleTV+ show “Shrinking,” Williams uses her improv skills and authenticity not only to entertain but also to hit on deep truths. “Grief settles in and it just changes you,” she says. “It doesn’t leave. It just makes a home in your body.”In this episode of “The Envelope,” Williams reflects on how personal experiences, including her years of therapy and the death of her partner, have shaped her performance. She also gets into her view of the “Black lady therapist” trope, the controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling and transgender rights, and what she learned while making the “Fantastic Beasts” films. Plus, Williams offers tips on “decolonizing” your garden. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2023-06-22/la-et-env-jessica-williams-shrinking-therapy-fantastic-beasts-transgender-emmys-envelope-podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

Linda Cardellini

Christina Applegate

It’s rare to find a televised female friendship that can deal with dead husbands, car crashes and other wild plot twists the way Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini’s “Dead to Me” characters do. Through years of filming the tragicomedy, the two actors learned to deeply trust each other. When Applegate was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis while filming the last season, their bond only intensified.In this episode of “The Envelope,” Applegate and Cardellini laugh, sob, describe why they love each other and ponder the possibility of working together again. They also discuss the importance of flawed-mom characters and recall how they were allowed to improvise lines until things got way too weird.To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

It’s rare to find a televised female friendship that can deal with dead husbands, car crashes and other wild plot twists the way Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini’s “Dead to Me” characters do. Through years of filming the tragicomedy, the two actors learned to deeply trust each other. When Applegate was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis while filming the last season, their bond only intensified.In this episode of “The Envelope,” Applegate and Cardellini laugh, sob, describe why they love each other and ponder the possibility of working together again. They also discuss the importance of flawed-mom characters and recall how they were allowed to improvise lines until things got way too weird.To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2023-06-15/la-et-env-christina-applegate-linda-cardellini-dead-to-me-emmys-envelope-podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

Christina Applegate & Linda Cardellini

Christina Ricci

Christina Ricci wouldn’t want to know Misty Quigley in real life, but she has a protective soft spot for her “Yellowjackets” character. In this episode of “The Envelope,” Ricci delves into why she enjoys playing the impulsive outcast and what she values about the series’ unconventional exploration of trauma.Ricci also reflects on her enduring connection to Wednesday Addams, recalls the two auditions that changed her life even though she didn’t land either part, and talks about how her acting career began as an escape from her unhappy childhood. Plus, if you want reading recommendations? She’s got you covered.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Christina Ricci wouldn’t want to know Misty Quigley in real life, but she has a protective soft spot for her “Yellowjackets” character. In this episode of “The Envelope,” Ricci delves into why she enjoys playing the impulsive outcast and what she values about the series’ unconventional exploration of trauma.Ricci also reflects on her enduring connection to Wednesday Addams, recalls the two auditions that changed her life even though she didn’t land either part, and talks about how her acting career began as an escape from her unhappy childhood. Plus, if you want reading recommendations? She’s got you covered.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2023-06-08/la-et-env-christina-ricci-yellowjackets-misty-wednesday-emmys-envelope-podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

James Marsden

The premise of “Jury Duty” — placing a non-actor in the middle of an entirely staged trial — could have easily led the show to mean-spirited-prank territory. Instead, the cast manages to land laughs while making the person who thinks it’s all real, Ronald Gladden, into a hero. For James Marsden, who plays a Hollywood jerk version of himself on the show, that was the most important thing. “I’ll make an ass of myself and have fun doing it, but I never want him to be the butt of the joke,” he shares.In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, Marsden discusses how the cast and crew managed to pull it all off, why the role interested him, and how — despite his very believable performance on ”Jury Duty” — he strives to keep his ego from ruining his reputation in real life. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

The premise of “Jury Duty” — placing a non-actor in the middle of an entirely staged trial — could have easily led the show to mean-spirited-prank territory. Instead, the cast manages to land laughs while making the person who thinks it’s all real, Ronald Gladden, into a hero. For James Marsden, who plays a Hollywood jerk version of himself on the show, that was the most important thing. “I’ll make an ass of myself and have fun doing it, but I never want him to be the butt of the joke,” he shares.In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, Marsden discusses how the cast and crew managed to pull it all off, why the role interested him, and how — despite his very believable performance on ”Jury Duty” — he strives to keep his ego from ruining his reputation in real life. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2023-05-31/la-et-env-james-marsden-jury-duty-ronald-gladen-emmys-envelope-podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

"Foretold" is the newest podcast from the L.A. Times, and we're sharing a preview of the first episode with you here today. In the fall of 2019, reporter Faith E. Pinho received a tip from a woman named Paulina Stevens. Paulina claimed she had grown up in an insular Romani community in California, where she was raised to be a wife, mother and fortuneteller — until she decided to break away. That first call unraveled a story spanning multiple continents, hundreds of years, and complex metaphysical realities.  Follow "Foretold" to hear new episodes every Tuesday.

"Foretold" is the newest podcast from the L.A. Times, and we're sharing a preview of the first episode with you here today. In the fall of 2019, reporter Faith E. Pinho received a tip from a woman named Paulina Stevens. Paulina claimed she had grown up in an insular Romani community in California, where she was raised to be a wife, mother and fortuneteller — until she decided to break away. That first call unraveled a story spanning multiple continents, hundreds of years, and complex metaphysical realities. <a href="https://link.chtbl.com/ForetoldTrailer?sid=AudioEdit" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Follow "Foretold" to hear new episodes every Tuesday</a>.

Introducing 'Foretold'

Michelle Yeoh

Academy Award nominee Michelle Yeoh has been a worldwide movie star for decades, known for action-packed roles in films such as “Supercop” and “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and as a Bond girl in “Tomorrow Never Dies.” But it’s her leading role in “Everything Everywhere All at Once” that Yeoh says finally let her show what she’s capable of.In this episode of “The Envelope,” Yeoh discusses her first impressions of “Everything Everywhere’s” genre-bending script and bold gags. She reflects on her dangerous early-career stunts and how she was treated when she arrived in Hollywood (she makes a gloriously unimpressed sound while recalling that people were “quite stunned” when they realized she could speak English). Yeoh also goes deep on tokenism, aging and why she’s been praying every night to win an Oscar.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Academy Award nominee Michelle Yeoh has been a worldwide movie star for decades, known for action-packed roles in films such as “Supercop” and “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and as a Bond girl in “Tomorrow Never Dies.” But it’s her leading role in “Everything Everywhere All at Once” that Yeoh says finally let her show what she’s capable of.In this episode of “The Envelope,” Yeoh discusses her first impressions of “Everything Everywhere’s” genre-bending script and bold gags. She reflects on her dangerous early-career stunts and how she was treated when she arrived in Hollywood (she makes a gloriously unimpressed sound while recalling that people were “quite stunned” when they realized she could speak English). Yeoh also goes deep on tokenism, aging and why she’s been praying every night to win an Oscar.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2023-02-07/michelle-yeoh-everything-everywhere-all-at-once-oscar-interview-evelyn-wang" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

Writer-director Todd Field made two acclaimed films in the early 2000s and then disappeared from the big screen for 16 years. “Tár,” about the scandalous downfall of a classical music conductor, marks his return. The movie burst forth in dramatic fashion: Its screenplay took him only three months to write.In this episode of “The Envelope,” Field breaks down how a Górecki composition inspired the internal rhythm of lead character Lydia Tár and discusses what it was like collaborating with star Cate Blanchett, who “always wants to do things that are dangerous.” He also explains why he’s delighted by reactions to his film — even those that are ferociously dismissive. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Writer-director Todd Field made two acclaimed films in the early 2000s and then disappeared from the big screen for 16 years. “Tár,” about the scandalous downfall of a classical music conductor, marks his return. The movie burst forth in dramatic fashion: Its screenplay took him only three months to write.In this episode of “The Envelope,” Field breaks down how a Górecki composition inspired the internal rhythm of lead character Lydia Tár and discusses what it was like collaborating with star Cate Blanchett, who “always wants to do things that are dangerous.” He also explains why he’s delighted by reactions to his film — even those that are ferociously dismissive. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2023-01-10/todd-field-tar-cate-blanchett-nina-hoss-noemie-merlant-oscars-twister" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

Todd Field

Darren Aronofsky

Darren Aronofsky is known for directing dark, provocative, divisive films such as “Requiem for a Dream” and “Black Swan,” but in “The Whale,” he sees hope, “human connection and a belief in the human spirit.”In this episode of “The Envelope,” Aronofsky reflects on how “The Whale” interacts with obesity and fatphobia, discusses exploring humanity through science, and describes why the “Brenaissance” — star Brendan Fraser’s triumphant return to acting — caught him by surprise.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Darren Aronofsky is known for directing dark, provocative, divisive films such as “Requiem for a Dream” and “Black Swan,” but in “The Whale,” he sees hope, “human connection and a belief in the human spirit.”In this episode of “The Envelope,” Aronofsky reflects on how “The Whale” interacts with obesity and fatphobia, discusses exploring humanity through science, and describes why the “Brenaissance” — star Brendan Fraser’s triumphant return to acting — caught him by surprise.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2022-12-13/darren-aronofsky-the-whale-brendan-fraser-obesity-fatphobia" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latimes.com</a>.

The Envelope podcast pulls back the curtain to reveal intimates stories from this award season’s top contenders. A-list actors, directors and showrunners join Los Angeles Times entertainment reporters Yvonne Villarreal and Mark Olsen for conversations about their personal lives and creative processes — and how it all fuels their art.

E o  se

Remarkably a unique voice amongst the many many film podcasts. So good!

So good!

The Envelope

HBO is pushing the envelope with its new teen-centered drama, EUPHORIA. Sex influenced by pornography, wanton drug use, aimless youth: It’s a horror movie for parents. But is it a fair representation of the 9/11 generation — the first set of kids to come of age with smartphones perpetually in tow?Host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Times TV reporter @villarrealy.On a lighter note, Olsen also talks with @cashleelee and @thefilmgoer about the return of YOUNGER, the hit romantic dramedy back for its sixth season. With its deep fan base, the TV Land series seems to have cracked the code for keeping appointment television relevant in a streaming world. 

HBO is pushing the envelope with its new teen-centered drama, EUPHORIA. Sex influenced by pornography, wanton drug use, aimless youth: It’s a horror movie for parents. But is it a fair representation of the 9/11 generation — the first set of kids to come of age with smartphones perpetually in tow?Host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Times TV reporter @villarrealy.On a lighter note, Olsen also talks with @cashleelee and @thefilmgoer about the return of YOUNGER, the hit romantic dramedy back for its sixth season. With its deep fan base, the TV Land series seems to have cracked the code for keeping appointment television relevant in a streaming world.

The Reel: The Teenage Wasteland in HBO's "Euphoria"

Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) moderates a noteworthy conversation between Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp), Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) as they discuss the Best and Supporting Actress categories. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies.  Get The Shape of Water and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Sarah Rodman (<a href="https://twitter.com/saraharodman?lang=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@SarahARodman</a>) moderates a noteworthy conversation between Glenn Whipp (<a href="https://twitter.com/GlennWhipp?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@GlennWhipp</a>), Justin Chang (<a href="https://twitter.com/JustinCChang?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChang</a>) and Amy Kaufman (<a href="https://twitter.com/AmyKinLA?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@AmyKinLA</a>) as they discuss the Best and Supporting Actress categories. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/the-shape-of-water/id1325404789" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Shape of Water</a> and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to <a href="http://itunes.com/Oscars2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes.com/Oscars2018</a>.

The Reel: Oscars Break Down: Best and Supporting Actresses

Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) leads a smart and energetic discussion between Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp), Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) as they discuss the Best and Supporting Actor categories. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies.  Get Dunkirk and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go toiTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Sarah Rodman (<a href="https://twitter.com/saraharodman?lang=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@SarahARodman</a>) leads a smart and energetic discussion between Glenn Whipp (<a href="https://twitter.com/GlennWhipp?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@GlennWhipp</a>), Justin Chang (<a href="https://twitter.com/JustinCChang?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChang</a>) and Jen Yamato (<a href="https://twitter.com/jenyamato?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JenYamato</a>) as they discuss the Best and Supporting Actor categories. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/dunkirk-2017/id1300354540" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dunkirk</a> and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to<a href="http://itunes.com/Oscars2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes.com/Oscars2018</a>.

The Reel: Oscars Break Down: Best and Supporting Actors

HBO’s “Succession” wears its contempt for the billionaire class on its sleeve. Back for its second season, heroes are in short supply while an ensemble of entertainingly loathsome and amoral characters backstab and sabotage each other as they battle for power and control within a global media empire.  The scheming family serve as stand-ins for the Murdochs or the Redstones. But the siblings’ angling for affection and love of their father has distinct echoes of President Trump’s adult offspring.“Succession” takes you inside the privileged bubble of the .1 percent without glorifying that lifestyle.The critically acclaimed series was nominated for five Emmys, including best drama, and Times TV editor Matthew Brennan (@thefilmgoer) says it’s the show you need to watch this summer.Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Brennan and Meredith Blake (@MeredithBlake) about the show that’s hitting the political and cultural zeitgeist right on the nose.

HBO’s “Succession” wears its contempt for the billionaire class on its sleeve. Back for its second season, heroes are in short supply while an ensemble of entertainingly loathsome and amoral characters backstab and sabotage each other as they battle for power and control within a global media empire. The scheming family serve as stand-ins for the Murdochs or the Redstones. But the siblings’ angling for affection and love of their father has distinct echoes of President Trump’s adult offspring.“Succession” takes you inside the privileged bubble of the .1 percent without glorifying that lifestyle.The critically acclaimed series was nominated for five Emmys, including best drama, and Times TV editor Matthew Brennan (@thefilmgoer) says it’s the show you need to watch this summer.Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Brennan and Meredith Blake (@MeredithBlake) about the show that’s hitting the political and cultural zeitgeist right on the nose.

The Reel: 'Succession’ on HBO Captures America’s New Gilded Age

Film critic Kenneth Turan (@KennethTuran) and reporters Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) and Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) join host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) to discuss the new hit movie, A Star is Born. They talk all about Bradley Cooper's directing debut, how the movie compares to previous iterations, and Lady Gaga's performance.

Film critic Kenneth Turan (<a href="https://twitter.com/KennethTuran?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@KennethTuran</a>) and reporters Amy Kaufman (<a href="http://twitter.com/amykinla" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@AmyKinLA</a>) and Jen Yamato (<a href="http://twitter.com/jenyamato" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JenYamato</a>) join host Mark Olsen (<a href="http://twitter.com/indiefocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) to discuss the new hit movie, A Star is Born. They talk all about Bradley Cooper's directing debut, how the movie compares to previous iterations, and Lady Gaga's performance.

The Reel: A Star is Born

HBO may not have known it had a hit on its hands in 2011, but the premiere of the final season of GAME OF THRONES shattered ratings records for the network.Viewing of the series has reached a fever pitch and blown up Twitter, while fans divine clues over who will live, who will die, and who will win the Iron Throne.LA Times film writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus ) is joined by @marymacTV, @tracycbrown  and @MeredithBlake  to ponder deep cuts and the series' role in the history of modern television.When was the last time the public had to say goodbye to a show long before growing tired of it?

HBO may not have known it had a hit on its hands in 2011, but the premiere of the final season of GAME OF THRONES shattered ratings records for the network.Viewing of the series has reached a fever pitch and blown up Twitter, while fans divine clues over who will live, who will die, and who will win the Iron Throne.LA Times film writer Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus </a>) is joined by <a href="https://twitter.com/marymacTV" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@marymacTV</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/tracycbrown" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@tracycbrown </a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/MeredithBlake" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@MeredithBlake </a> to ponder deep cuts and the series' role in the history of modern television.When was the last time the public had to say goodbye to a show long before growing tired of it?

The Reel: Game of Thrones: We Can't Quit You.

Hear directly from L.A. Times entertainment reporters about how they cover the biggest night in Hollywood. Arts and film writer Jeffrey Fleishman (@JeffreyLA), film reporter Josh Rottenberg (@joshrottenberg) and Hollywood writer Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) discuss where they were last year when the La La Land/Moonlight fiasco happened, why Warren Beatty refused to let go of the envelope and what we might expect from this year's ceremony.Also, hear from Assistant Managing Editor Mary Mcnamara (@marymacTV) and Glenn Weiss, the director of the Oscars ceremony.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Get Out and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Hear directly from L.A. Times entertainment reporters about how they cover the biggest night in Hollywood. Arts and film writer Jeffrey Fleishman (<a href="https://twitter.com/jeffreylat?lang=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JeffreyLA</a>), film reporter Josh Rottenberg (<a href="https://twitter.com/joshrottenberg?lang=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@joshrottenberg</a>) and Hollywood writer Amy Kaufman (<a href="https://twitter.com/AmyKinLA?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@AmyKinLA</a>) discuss where they were last year when the La La Land/Moonlight fiasco happened, why Warren Beatty refused to let go of the envelope and what we might expect from this year's ceremony.Also, hear from Assistant Managing Editor Mary Mcnamara (<a href="https://twitter.com/marymacTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@marymacTV</a>) and Glenn Weiss, the director of the Oscars ceremony.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/get-out/id1202441786" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get Out</a> and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to <a href="http://itunes.com/Oscars2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes.com/Oscars2018</a>.

The Reel: Covering the Oscars--and What Happened in 2017?!

Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) talks to awards show reporter Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) and film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) about the Best Director category. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies.  Get Coco and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Sarah Rodman (<a href="https://twitter.com/saraharodman?lang=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@SarahARodman</a>) talks to awards show reporter Glenn Whipp (<a href="https://twitter.com/GlennWhipp?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@GlennWhipp</a>) and film critic Justin Chang (<a href="https://twitter.com/JustinCChang?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChang</a>) about the Best Director category. The team also casts their votes for who should win in each.**This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/coco-2017/id1307301491" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Coco</a> and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to <a href="http://itunes.com/Oscars2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes.com/Oscars2018</a>.

The Reel: Oscars Break Down: Best Directors

Our reporters recap the powerful first season of The Handmaid's Tale, discuss and analyze the first few episodes of Season 2, and begin to determine how this equally impactful season might connect to recent real events.Featuring reporters Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) and Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy), editor Mary McNamara (@MaryMacTV), and host and film writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus).

Our reporters recap the powerful first season of The Handmaid's Tale, discuss and analyze the first few episodes of Season 2, and begin to determine how this equally impactful season might connect to recent real events.Featuring reporters Lorraine Ali (<a href="https://twitter.com/LorraineAli?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@LorraineAli</a>) and Yvonne Villarreal (<a href="https://twitter.com/villarrealy?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@villarrealy</a>), editor Mary McNamara (<a href="https://twitter.com/marymacTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@MaryMacTV</a>), and host and film writer Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>).

The Reel: The Handmaid's Tale

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers!Reporters Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) and Sonaiya Kelley (@sonaiyak) sit down with film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and film writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) to talk about the latest Marvel film, Avengers: Infinity War. They discuss how the film integrated the Black Panther story line, whether you need to be a die-hard Marvel fan to enjoy the movie and how a few shocking end twists might affect the future of Marvel movies.

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers!Reporters Tre'vell Anderson (<a href="https://twitter.com/TrevellAnderson?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@TrevellAnderson</a>) and Sonaiya Kelley (<a href="https://twitter.com/sonaiyak?lang=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@sonaiyak</a>) sit down with film critic Justin Chang (<a href="https://twitter.com/JustinCChang?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChang</a>) and film writer Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) to talk about the latest Marvel film, Avengers: Infinity War. They discuss how the film integrated the Black Panther story line, whether you need to be a die-hard Marvel fan to enjoy the movie and how a few shocking end twists might affect the future of Marvel movies.

The Reel: Avengers: Infinity War

When the movie HEATHERS was shown at the 1989 US Film Festival, now known as Sundance, the Los Angeles Times film critic Sheila Benson wrote: “No amount of production sheen or acting skill seems excuse enough for the film's scabrous morality or its unprincipled viciousness.” In The New Yorker, Pauline Kael wrote the script for the black comedy “promises that the picture will lift off into the junior division of Blue Velvetland. But layers of didacticism weigh it down.” But HEATHERS has survived the test of time to become a cult sensation, and is now being celebrated on the 30th anniversary of its theatrical release. With its big hair and big shoulder pads, the film took on the nasty high school caste system in a way that was ahead of its time. HEATHERS turned the common cruelty of most teen films of that era on its head. In a conversation with LA Times film writer Mark Olsen, (@IndieFocus ) the movie’s writer, director and one of its Heathers explain that the film was designed as an antidote to John Hughes movies.And later, Fosse/Verdon fans don’t want to miss Olsen's talk with Steven Levenson, the Tony-winning writer of Dear Evan Hanson, and a writer and executive producer of the miniseries on FX. 

When the movie HEATHERS was shown at the 1989 US Film Festival, now known as Sundance, the Los Angeles Times film critic Sheila Benson wrote: “No amount of production sheen or acting skill seems excuse enough for the film's scabrous morality or its unprincipled viciousness.” In The New Yorker, Pauline Kael wrote the script for the black comedy “promises that the picture will lift off into the junior division of Blue Velvetland. But layers of didacticism weigh it down.” But HEATHERS has survived the test of time to become a cult sensation, and is now being celebrated on the 30th anniversary of its theatrical release. With its big hair and big shoulder pads, the film took on the nasty high school caste system in a way that was ahead of its time. HEATHERS turned the common cruelty of most teen films of that era on its head. In a conversation with LA Times film writer Mark Olsen, (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus </a>) the movie’s writer, director and one of its Heathers explain that the film was designed as an antidote to John Hughes movies.And later, Fosse/Verdon fans don’t want to miss Olsen's talk with Steven Levenson, the Tony-winning writer of Dear Evan Hanson, and a writer and executive producer of the miniseries on FX.

The Reel: Heathers Turns 30: How Very.

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) is joined by Director Spike Lee and two of his longtime collaborators, composer Terence Blanchard and editor Barry Alexander Brown. They discuss the success of their latest, “BlacKkKlansman” and the lasting impact of the film.  

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (<a href="http://twitter.com/indiefocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) is joined by Director Spike Lee and two of his longtime collaborators, composer Terence Blanchard and editor Barry Alexander Brown. They discuss the success of their latest, “BlacKkKlansman” and the lasting impact of the film.

The Reel: Interview: Director Spike Lee opens up about Oscar-nominated 'BlacKkKlansman'

Hear our reactions to this year's Emmys nominations and our team's predictions for who might win the night's most coveted awards. TV writer Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) and critic Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) join Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) to discuss the different categories and talk about what else to expect as we prepare for the 2018 Emmy Awards.

Hear our reactions to this year's Emmys nominations and our team's predictions for who might win the night's most coveted awards. TV writer Lorraine Ali (<a href="https://twitter.com/LorraineAli?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@LorraineAli</a>) and critic Glenn Whipp (<a href="https://twitter.com/GlennWhipp?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@GlennWhipp</a>) join Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) to discuss the different categories and talk about what else to expect as we prepare for the 2018 Emmy Awards.

The Reel: Emmy Nominations

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) sits down with Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) and Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) to take an early look at the 2019 Oscar nominations. They discuss key takeaways from the nominated films, including an increase in internationally focused nominations and the significance behind the “best director” category.

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (<a href="http://twitter.com/indiefocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) sits down with Glenn Whipp (<a href="http://twitter.com/glennwhipp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@GlennWhipp</a>) and Justin Chang (<a href="http://twitter.com/justincchang" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChan</a>g) to take an early look at the 2019 Oscar nominations. They discuss key takeaways from the nominated films, including an increase in internationally focused nominations and the significance behind the “best director” category.

The Reel: Oscar Nominations 2019: Snubs and Surprises

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) previews the 2019 Academy Awards with Justin Chang (@JustinCChang), Mary McNamara (@marymacTV) and Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp). They discuss their favorite films of the year and explore some of the possible outcomes in this year's top award categories.

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (<a href="http://twitter.com/indiefocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) previews the 2019 Academy Awards with Justin Chang (<a href="https://twitter.com/JustinCChang" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChang</a>), Mary McNamara (<a href="https://twitter.com/marymacTV" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@marymacTV</a>) and Glenn Whipp (<a href="http://twitter.com/glennwhipp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@GlennWhipp</a>). They discuss their favorite films of the year and explore some of the possible outcomes in this year's top award categories.

The Reel: Oscars 2019 Preview: What to expect from this year's Academy Awards

New York Times Bestselling Author of Bachelor Nation and Los Angeles Times reporter Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) talks with Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) about the new season of The Bachelorette. They also discuss what this franchise means for our culture and why this season is different.

New York Times Bestselling Author of Bachelor Nation and Los Angeles Times reporter Amy Kaufman (<a href="https://twitter.com/AmyKinLA?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@AmyKinLA</a>) talks with Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) about the new season of The Bachelorette. They also discuss what this franchise means for our culture and why this season is different.

The Reel: The Bachelorette

After some time off, The Reel is back!This week film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and reporters Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) discuss the movies Crazy Rich Asians and BlacKkKlansman with host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus). They discuss the importance of the films in their respective communities and the film world at large, as well as the genre-bending techniques each uses to stand out from the crowd.Then, reporter Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) interviews The Handmaid's Tale show runner, Bruce Miller.

After some time off, The Reel is back!This week film critic Justin Chang (<a href="https://twitter.com/JustinCChang?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChang</a>) and reporters Jen Yamato (<a href="https://twitter.com/jenyamato" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JenYamato</a>) and Amy Kaufman (<a href="https://twitter.com/AmyKinLA?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@AmyKinLA</a>) discuss the movies Crazy Rich Asians and BlacKkKlansman with host Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>). They discuss the importance of the films in their respective communities and the film world at large, as well as the genre-bending techniques each uses to stand out from the crowd.Then, reporter Lorraine Ali (<a href="https://twitter.com/LorraineAli?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@LorraineAli</a>) interviews The Handmaid's Tale show runner, Bruce Miller.

The Reel: Crazy Rich Asians, BlacKkKlansman, The Handmaid's Tale

Luca Guadagnino

This week, host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) interviews Luca Guadagnino, the director of the remade film Suspiria and also recently known for directing the award-winning movie, Call Me By Your Name. Guadagnino talks, among many other things, about the inspirations for his remake, his friendship with Tilda Swinton and her three roles in the film, and what the movie is actually about.

This week, host Mark Olsen (<a href="http://twitter.com/indiefocus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) interviews Luca Guadagnino, the director of the remade film Suspiria and also recently known for directing the award-winning movie, Call Me By Your Name. Guadagnino talks, among many other things, about the inspirations for his remake, his friendship with Tilda Swinton and her three roles in the film, and what the movie is actually about.

The Reel: Interview: Luca Guadagnino

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus)  speaks to Academy Award-Winning Documentarian Morgan Neville about his most recent film, Won't You Be My Neighbor? The documentary celebrates the life and work of Fred Rogers, best known for his TV program Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. Morgan discusses the use of archival footage and new interviews in his film as well as the overarching theme of both his documentary and Mr. Rogers' program: the idea that culture matters.

Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) speaks to Academy Award-Winning Documentarian Morgan Neville about his most recent film, Won't You Be My Neighbor? The documentary celebrates the life and work of Fred Rogers, best known for his TV program Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. Morgan discusses the use of archival footage and new interviews in his film as well as the overarching theme of both his documentary and Mr. Rogers' program: the idea that culture matters.

The Reel: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Clare Danes

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks to film reporters Justin Chang (@JustinCChang), Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) about some new movie releases that you should keep an eye out for. And then, we listen in on an interview with Claire Danes about her new movie A Kid Like Jake.

Mark Olsen (<a href="https://twitter.com/IndieFocus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@IndieFocus</a>) talks to film reporters Justin Chang (<a href="https://twitter.com/JustinCChang?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JustinCChang</a>), Jen Yamato (<a href="https://twitter.com/jenyamato?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@JenYamato</a>) and Tre'vell Anderson (<a href="https://twitter.com/TrevellAnderson?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@TrevellAnderson</a>) about some new movie releases that you should keep an eye out for. And then, we listen in on an interview with Claire Danes about her new movie A Kid Like Jake.

The Reel: Ocean's 8, Hereditary and Clare Danes

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Best Non-Current Politics Podcasts

The best episodes for anyone looking to learn more about topics such as happiness, fulfillment, depression and psychology/mental health in general. With interviews with industry experts, personal stories of individuals, this topic has lessons applicable to everyone. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!