Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast THE FIXATE & BINGE PODCAST, with Host, Joe Curdy: Deep dives into cinema and storytelling with voices who create it
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can Movies Be Therapy? The Films I Turn to When Life Gets Hard | 20 oct. 2026 | 00:51:08 | |
Can movies be a form of self-therapy? We all have those films we return to when life gets difficult. Not necessarily the happiest movies or the ones with the most uplifting endings, but the stories that speak to us personally, offer a little perspective, or remind us that there's still plenty worth celebrating in life. In this personal and hopeful episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, host Joe Curdy explores the restorative power of cinema, sharing five films he turns to for comfort, encouragement, and inspiration when life feels particularly overwhelming. From LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE and 3:10 TO YUMA to FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF, DEAD POETS SOCIETY, and GOOD WILL HUNTING, Joe reflects on how certain movies can lift our spirits, challenge our perspectives, and help us reconnect with what matters most. The episode also touches on the importance of caring for our mental health, including a meaningful message from the late RJ Mitte about paying attention to our emotional well-being. Plus, Joe shares his impressions of HBO's inspiring new film THE SLIGHTEST TOUCH and offers two bonus television recommendations for horror fans: CRYSTAL LAKE on Peacock and CARRIE on Prime Video. And Joe leaves listeners with a question worth considering: What movies do YOU turn to when life gets difficult? Because while movies aren't a substitute for professional mental health care, sometimes the right film at the right moment can offer exactly the comfort, perspective, or encouragement we need. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Inside THE NORTH: A Breathtaking Film About Friendship and Finding Ourselves | 13 oct. 2026 | 01:12:27 | |
Two friends. Ten years apart. A 330-mile journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. On this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, we're joined by writer/director Bart Schrijver and stars Bart Harder and Carles Pulido for a fascinating conversation about their extraordinary new film, THE NORTH (2025) — a beautifully understated, deeply immersive, and profoundly moving exploration of friendship, reconnection, and the healing power of nature. Set against some of the most spectacular landscapes ever captured on film, THE NORTH follows Chris (Harder) and Lluis (Pulido), two longtime friends who reunite after a decade apart to embark on an ambitious 330-mile trek along Scotland's legendary West Highland Way and Cape Wrath Trail. Drawing from Schrijver's own experiences as a long-distance hiker, the film takes audiences on a remarkable journey through the rugged Scottish wilderness, where breathtaking scenery, unpredictable weather, quiet reflection, and the physical demands of the trail become the backdrop for something far more intimate: two friends rediscovering their connection, confronting the passage of time, and perhaps learning something about themselves along the way. In our conversation, Schrijver shares the inspiration behind his deeply personal film and the extraordinary challenges of shooting on location with a remarkably small cast and crew. Meanwhile, Harder and Pulido reflect on their experiences bringing Chris and Lluis to life, including the genuine friendship that developed between them during production — a beautiful parallel to the relationship at the heart of the film. The result is an engaging, thoughtful, and often heartwarming discussion about independent filmmaking, the power of authentic storytelling, and the ways nature can help us reconnect with ourselves and one another. Join us as we venture behind the scenes of a remarkable film that reminds us that sometimes the greatest discoveries aren't found at the end of the trail, but in the people who walk beside us. 🎬 THE NORTH (2025) 🎙️ Featuring: Writer/Director Bart Schrijver and actors Bart Harder and Carles Pulido 🎧 The Fixate & Binge Podcast — Celebrating the films, filmmakers, and stories worth discovering. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| KANSAS BOWLING: CUDDLY TOYS, 35mm & Letting the Audience Decide | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:36:32 | |
Filmmaker, actress and provocateur Kansas Bowling joins The Fixate & Binge Podcast to revisit her audacious film CUDDLY TOYS, now returning to audiences with a striking new 35mm print. Originally shot on Super 16mm, CUDDLY TOYS adopts the deceptively innocent language of 1960s and ’70s educational films to present a surreal, unsettling series of vignettes featuring a cast of 100 actresses. The result is a film that can be funny, shocking, disturbing and deliberately difficult to pin down. Kansas joins Joe to discuss the film’s unusual production, its distinctive visual language, working with such an enormous ensemble, and what it means to see CUDDLY TOYS given a new life on 35mm. But what does CUDDLY TOYS actually mean? Bowling isn’t particularly interested in answering that question for us. In a conversation about authorship, interpretation and the sometimes dangerous temptation to explain art, Kansas discusses why she prefers to leave CUDDLY TOYS in the hands of the audience — allowing viewers to wrestle with its images, provocations and contradictions and ultimately decide for themselves what they’ve just experienced. 🎙️ Kansas Bowling joins The Fixate & Binge Podcast to discuss CUDDLY TOYS — and why sometimes the filmmaker’s final word is letting the audience have theirs. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Can We Learn to Be Happy? Filmmaker Barbara Miller on WISDOM OF HAPPINESS & the Dalai Lama | 30 sept. 2026 | 01:01:15 | |
Can we actually learn to be happier? And if we want a more peaceful world, does that change have to begin within ourselves? This week on The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe welcomes acclaimed filmmaker Barbara Miller, producer and co-director of WISDOM OF HAPPINESS — the extraordinary new documentary offering audiences an intimate encounter with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and his deeply human message of compassion, inner peace, and our shared responsibility for one another. Barbara takes us behind the making of the film and her remarkable experience working with His Holiness, while exploring the ideas at the heart of WISDOM OF HAPPINESS: Why do we struggle to find happiness? How much of our suffering begins within our own minds? And can changing ourselves ultimately change the world around us? What follows is an illuminating conversation about filmmaking, compassion, self-reflection, and the difficult—but hopeful—journey toward inner peace. In a world increasingly defined by division, anxiety, anger, and uncertainty, WISDOM OF HAPPINESS offers something remarkably simple: Perhaps peace in the world begins with finding peace within ourselves. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| RESIDENT EVIL (2026) Is Fantastic… And I Think I Know Who The Next James Bond Is... | 22 sept. 2026 | 00:37:30 | |
What happens when your scheduled guest cancels at the last minute? You throw out the script and start talking about whatever the hell you've been watching. That's exactly what happened on this week's episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast — and it turned into one of our most wide-ranging conversations yet. First up: Zach Cregger's RESIDENT EVIL. I went in expecting a fun horror movie and came away convinced it may be the best horror film I've seen all year. I'll explain why — completely spoiler-free — and why Cregger's wildly entertaining take on the iconic video-game franchise worked so much better for me than I ever expected. Then we take a very different turn with Russell Crowe's THE GET OUT, a film that got me thinking about the increasingly strange career trajectories of some of Hollywood's most acclaimed movie stars — from Liam Neeson and John Travolta to Nicolas Cage, Al Pacino and Robert De Niro — and why so many actors who once headlined major theatrical releases are now turning up in streaming movies. That leads naturally to one of television's great exceptions: Gary Oldman in SLOW HORSES. And speaking of Slow Horses… I've got a prediction. I think Jack Lowden may be the next James Bond. I'll explain exactly why I think River Cartwright has demonstrated many of the qualities that could make Lowden an intriguing successor to Daniel Craig — and why his work on Slow Horses may be the audition we've been watching without realizing it. And finally, because apparently I needed to restore my wounded ego after watching Jeopardy! Masters, I wrap things up with a brief comparison between that brain-melting display of knowledge and The Nation's Dumbest Celebrity — one show that made me feel very, very stupid… and another that restored my confidence. A canceled guest. A surprisingly great RESIDENT EVIL. Russell Crowe. The changing movie-star economy. Gary Oldman. Jack Lowden. James Bond. Jeopardy! And some truly questionable celebrity intelligence. Sometimes the best episodes are the ones you didn't plan. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| IS ORIGINALITY OVERRATED? Why Hollywood Keeps Telling the Same Stories | 15 sept. 2026 | 00:44:57 | |
Hollywood has run out of ideas. We’ve all heard it: sequels, remakes, reboots, franchises, adaptations, spin-offs and prequels. But what if we’re asking the wrong question? In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, we tackle the increasingly common complaint that Hollywood has “run out of ideas” and ask whether originality itself may be overrated in cinema. Because here’s the uncomfortable truth: how many truly original stories are there? Shakespeare didn’t invent every story he told. George Lucas didn’t invent the Hero’s Journey. Quentin Tarantino has built an entire career by borrowing, remixing and reinterpreting the movies that came before him. Yet Shakespeare, Star Wars and Tarantino are hardly examples of uninspired filmmaking. So what actually makes something original? We explore the difference between novelty and originality, and why perspective, execution, combination and voice may matter far more than inventing a story nobody has ever told before. From Star Wars and Quentin Tarantino to contemporary films including HEEL / THE GOOD BOY, FUZE, ONSLAUGHT, BUDDY, HOPE and THE GENTLEMEN, we ask a deceptively simple question: Do filmmakers really need a new story—or do they need a new way of telling an old one? Because maybe originality isn't about whether every ingredient is new. Maybe it's about whether the recipe is. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| THE AI QUESTION HOLLYWOOD DOESN’T WANT TO ASK: Film Producer Elizabeth Caddy on GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE | 01 sept. 2026 | 01:31:26 | |
What if the technology threatening Hollywood could actually protect some of its most vulnerable performers? Film producer Elizabeth Caddy returns to The Fixate & Binge Podcast for a provocative, wide-ranging conversation that begins with Gore Verbinski’s GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON'T DIE and quickly evolves into something much bigger: the rapidly changing—and increasingly unsettling—relationship between artificial intelligence, entertainment, and humanity. Elizabeth and Joe dive into the dangers AI poses to filmmaking, creativity, performers, and society itself, while also confronting an idea that is considerably harder to dismiss: Could AI actually be used to replace child actors—and in doing so, protect children from an entertainment industry with a long and disturbing history of exploitation, bullying, addiction, abuse, and trauma? It’s an uncomfortable proposition. And Elizabeth doesn’t shy away from it. The conversation also includes Joe’s review of HOKUM (which Elizabeth thinks may have been a little too generous), along with Elizabeth’s recommendations for HEEL, starring Stephen Graham, and STOP! THAT! TRAIN!, starring RuPaul. But ultimately, this episode becomes a much deeper discussion about where we draw the line with AI—and whether the technology we fear might, in some circumstances, actually be capable of protecting the people Hollywood has historically failed to protect. It’s provocative. It’s uncomfortable. And it’s a conversation Hollywood desperately needs to have. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| THE LAST PICTURE SHOWS: A 10,825-Mile Journey Through America's Vanishing Theaters | 25 août 2026 | 00:50:46 | |
For decades, movie theaters have been more than places to watch films—they’ve been gathering places, community landmarks, and an essential part of the American experience. But across the country, many of those theaters are disappearing. Award-winning, National Emmy-winning documentarian, writer, and producer Rustin Thompson set out to see them before they’re gone. In his new film, THE LAST PICTURE SHOWS, Rustin takes an extraordinary 10,825-mile road trip through the American West, traveling through Washington, Utah, Montana, Nevada, and Arizona and visiting small towns and independent movie theaters that are struggling to survive—or closing their doors altogether. On this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Rustin and I talk about the journey behind the film, the people and communities he encountered along the way, and what we lose when these theaters disappear. We also discuss the changing moviegoing experience, the challenges facing small-town cinemas, and why preserving these seemingly ordinary places may actually mean preserving something extraordinary about America itself. Because when the last picture show ends, what else disappears with it? This is the story of a filmmaker who drove 10,825 miles to find out. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| WHY WE LOVE BAD PEOPLE — AND THE DANGEROUS REASONS WE EXCUSE THEM | 18 août 2026 | 00:52:21 | |
Why do we keep rooting for people who do terrible things? From Tony Soprano and Walter White to Dexter Morgan, Billy Butcher and Daemon Targaryen, television has become extraordinarily good at making us understand morally compromised characters. We know their trauma. We understand their motivations. We see their vulnerabilities. And somehow, the better we understand them, the easier it becomes to forgive them. But when does understanding become justification? In this nearly hour-long solo episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy explores our fascination with television's antiheroes—and the uncomfortable possibility that the moral reasoning we use to defend fictional characters may not be so different from the reasoning we use to defend real people. Joe begins with a look at Paramount+'s THE AGENCY, starring Michael Fassbender, before diving into the evolution of television's morally complicated protagonists and asking why charisma, competence, power, trauma and even humor can make us surprisingly forgiving of terrible behavior. Then Hulu's new FURIOUS, starring Emmy Rossum and Lola Petticrew, takes the conversation somewhere darker: What happens when legitimate trauma and righteous anger become the justification for violence? And then fiction collides with reality. Joe examines the extraordinary public reaction surrounding Luigi Mangione following his recent guilty plea in the federal case stemming from the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson—and the larger debate over whether anger toward America's healthcare system can ever justify murder. But this isn't a Left-versus-Right argument. Because that's the uncomfortable part. We all do it. We forgive the people we believe are fighting for our side. We minimize behavior when we agree with the cause. We find reasons to excuse people we admire, people who entertain us, people who look the part, and people who are fighting someone we dislike even more. We've all heard—or perhaps said—the dangerous sentence: "I don't approve of everything they do, BUT..." So what comes after the but? Maybe television didn't destroy our moral compass. Maybe it simply taught us how easy it is to understand the villain. And maybe the most dangerous thing about the antihero isn't that we become like them—it's that we become convinced they're right. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| DO US PART: The Rom-Com Isn’t Dead — Writer & Director Reed Arnold Just Proved It! | 11 août 2026 | 00:48:31 | |
DO US PART: The Rom-Com Isn’t Dead — Reed Arnold Just Proved It For decades, the romantic comedy was one of Hollywood’s most dependable—and beloved—genres. Then streaming changed the theatrical landscape, horror took over the multiplex, and the mid-budget rom-com seemingly disappeared. Enter Reed Arnold. In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy sits down with Arnold—the writer, director, and star of DO US PART, his impressive feature-film debut—to talk about bringing a genuinely funny, heartfelt romantic comedy back to the big screen. Set against the increasingly chaotic backdrop of a countryside wedding, DO US PART follows a best man desperately trying to keep a celebration from completely unraveling when buried feelings, complicated friendships, and one very unexpected confession threaten to derail everything. But beneath the laughs is something much more meaningful: a story about unrequited love, enduring friendship, sacrifice, and the painful question of what might have been. Joe recently gave DO US PART a 4.5/5-star review, calling it “a breath of fresh air” and a welcome reminder that the theatrical rom-com “hasn’t lost its mojo—Hollywood has simply forgotten how much we still need it.” In this wide-ranging conversation, Reed talks about writing, directing, and starring in his debut feature; the origins of DO US PART; translating the story from stage to screen; creating authentic chemistry between his three leads; balancing escalating comedy with genuine emotional stakes; and why romantic comedies still matter. DO US PART is currently playing in select theaters and arrives on Apple TV on August 14, 2026. If you’ve been waiting for Hollywood to remember how to make you laugh, fall in love, and maybe even shed a tear along the way, this episode—and this movie—are for you. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| THE ODYSSEY Explained: Christopher Nolan's Most Human Film Yet? | 04 août 2026 | 00:54:31 | |
Christopher Nolan's THE ODYSSEY is already being celebrated for its breathtaking IMAX photography and epic scope—but is its greatest achievement something far more intimate? In this solo episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy moves beyond the spectacle to explore the film's deeper philosophical questions. Is Odysseus' voyage really about crossing the Mediterranean... or confronting the man he has become? What does "coming home" truly mean after years of war, violence, moral compromise, and unbearable loss? Joe also offers an honest—and perhaps controversial—take on experiencing the film in 70mm IMAX versus standard digital IMAX, questioning whether the premium format ultimately enhanced or distracted from the emotional experience. From Matt Damon's quietly devastating performance to the haunting presence of Athena, Zeus' Law, survivor's guilt, and the unforgettable metaphor of the Sirens' "delicious itch," this episode explores why THE ODYSSEY may be Nolan's most reflective and emotionally resonant film to date. Sometimes the longest journey isn't across an ocean. It's the one that leads us back to ourselves. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| 25 YEARS OF QUEER CINEMA HISTORY: Queer Cinema Trailblazer Todd Stephens & Birkett Turton Celebrate the Cult Classic GYSPY 83 | 28 juil. 2026 | 01:00:10 | |
Twenty-five years after its release, GYPSY 83 has become something rare in independent cinema: a film that grew more meaningful with time. On this special episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I am joined by writer/director Todd Stephens and actor Birkett Turton to celebrate the enduring legacy of a film that has evolved from an overlooked independent release into a beloved cult classic. Todd Stephens has long been recognized as a trailblazer in Queer Cinema, creating deeply personal stories centered around identity, belonging, friendship, and the search for connection. With GYPSY 83, he introduced audiences to an unforgettable road movie about two young people discovering themselves, finding confidence, and creating their own chosen family. We revisit the making of the 2001 film starring Sara Rue as Gypsy and Birkett Turton as Clive, exploring the incredible chemistry between its two leads, the challenges of bringing the story to life, and how a movie that was not initially embraced by critics has gone on to inspire generations of fans. Todd and Birkett share behind-the-scenes memories from production, reflect on the film's cultural impact 25 years later, and discuss why GYPSY 83 continues to resonate with audiences searching for stories about acceptance, individuality, and finding your place in the world. Before welcoming my guests, I also have a little fun discussing the early backlash toward Christopher Nolan's upcoming THE ODYSSEY and offering a playful message to those already writing off a film before they've even seen it. This episode is a celebration of independent filmmaking, Queer Cinema history, and the rare films that become more powerful as the years go by. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| The Heart Behind the 2025 film HORSEGIRLS: Lauren Meyering & Lillian Carrier on Authentic Autism Representation | 14 juil. 2026 | 00:52:47 | |
Writer-director Lauren Meyering and breakout star Lillian Carrier join The Fixate & Binge Podcast to discuss one of 2025's most heartfelt independent films, HORSEGIRLS, which debuted at New York's 2025 Tribeca Film Festival. Inspired by a true story, HORSEGIRLS follows Margarita, a 22-year-old autistic woman navigating adulthood while caring for—and being cared for by—her fiercely protective mother, played by Gretchen Mol. As Margarita discovers the unexpected world of competitive hobby horse riding, she begins to find confidence, community, and her own identity at a pivotal moment in both of their lives. Joe sits down with Meyering and Carrier for an honest conversation about adapting a deeply personal true story for the screen, the importance of authentic neurodivergent representation, collaborating with Gretchen Mol, balancing humor with emotional honesty, and why the film refuses to rely on familiar Hollywood clichés. Carrier also reflects on bringing her own lived experience as an autistic actor to the role of Margarita and what it meant to portray a character with such sincerity and authenticity. Plus, Joe shares why HORSEGIRLS became one of his favorite discoveries of the year, praising the remarkable performances from Carrier and Mol and the film's compassionate portrait of family, independence, and acceptance. If you love character-driven independent cinema and conversations about authentic storytelling, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| The Mid-Year Movie & TV Check-In: What's Working in 2026? | 07 juil. 2026 | 00:38:13 | |
As we reach the halfway point of 2026, it's the perfect time to look back at the movies and television shows that have made the biggest impact so far this year. In this special solo episode, Joe Curdy shares his favorite films and television series of 2026—from big studio releases and prestige television to independent gems that deserve a wider audience. Along the way, he reflects on the year's biggest surprises, a few disappointments, and the common themes that seem to be resonating with audiences today. Featuring discussion of Project Hail Mary, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Toy Story 5, The Sheep Detectives, Omaha, Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, Obsession, The Furious, The Bear, The Pitt, House of the Dragon, Silo, Jury Duty: Company Retreat, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Widow's Bay, and Cape Fear, this episode goes beyond reviews to explore why these stories matter—and what they might say about the kinds of stories we're seeking in 2026. Whether you're searching for your next great movie, the next television series to binge, or simply enjoy thoughtful conversations about film and television, this mid-year check-in has something for every movie and TV fan. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| WATCHING THE SKIES (Part 2): Award-Winning Writer/Filmmaker Vito Trupiano on DISCLOSURE DAY, UAPs & the UFO Mystery | 30 juin 2026 | 01:24:23 | |
In Part 2 of our special WATCHING THE SKIES series, what began as a continuation of our exploration of cinema's fascination with UFOs and UAPs takes an unexpected turn when award-winning filmmaker Vito Trupiano (HELLBENT ON BOOGIE) joins the conversation. A lifelong student of the UAP phenomenon—and currently developing a passion project centered on the subject—Vito brings a filmmaker's perspective and an enthusiast's curiosity to one of humanity's greatest mysteries. Together, we dive deep into Steven Spielberg's DISCLOSURE DAY, discussing what resonated, what left us wanting more, and how the film compares to decades of UFO storytelling on screen. Our conversation quickly expands beyond the movies into documented encounters, government disclosures, military testimony, and the enduring questions surrounding unexplained aerial phenomena that continue to captivate scientists, skeptics, and believers alike. Along the way, we also revisit several modern classics that have shaped the genre—including DISTRICT 9, ARRIVAL, THE VAST OF NIGHT, UNDER THE SKIN, NO ONE WILL SAVE YOU, NOPE, and PROJECT HAIL MARY—while exploring why UFO cinema continues to mirror humanity's hopes, fears, and fascination with the unknown. Whether you're a lifelong believer, an open-minded skeptic, or simply a fan of great science fiction, this free-flowing conversation offers an engaging look at where film, imagination, and the unexplained intersect. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| WATCHING THE SKIES How UFO Movies Reflect America's Hopes, Fears, & Fascination with the Unknown (Part 1 of 2) | 23 juin 2026 | 01:06:38 | |
For decades, stories of UFOs, extraterrestrials, and unexplained aerial phenomena have captured the imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike. Inspired by my father’s seventeen years working for NASA—and the stories he shared about humanity’s enduring fascination with the possibility of life beyond Earth—I take a deep dive into some of cinema’s most influential UFO and alien-themed films. In Part One of this two-part series, I explore classics such as THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL, CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND, E.T. THE EXTRA TERRESTRIAL, STARMAN, THE THING, THEY LIVE, THE ABYSS, FIRE IN THE SKY, and CONTACT. Rather than debating whether UFOs or extraterrestrials exist, this discussion examines what these films reveal about us: our fears, our hopes, our politics, our faith, and our relationship with authority. From Cold War anxieties and government secrecy to environmental concerns, media manipulation, consumerism, and the search for spiritual meaning, these films often use alien encounters as mirrors reflecting the societies that created them. Join me as I look beyond the flying saucers and little green men to uncover the deeper messages hidden within some of science fiction cinema’s most enduring works. The truth may be out there—but the stories we tell about it can reveal just as much about humanity as they do about what might exist beyond the stars. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| HOW DO YOU HEAL AFTER LOSS? | HONEYJOON Writer & Director Lilian T. Mehrel on Grief, Love & Finding Joy Again | 16 juin 2026 | 00:47:33 | |
This week on The Fixate & Binge Podcast, host Joe Curdy dives into one of the year's most touching independent films, HONEYJOON, with writer-director Lilian T. Mehrel. Before the interview, Joe shares his thoughts on three recent releases: the mind-bending Japanese thriller EXIT 8, the big-screen return of MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE, and the bone-crushing action spectacle THE FURIOUS, a film he absolutely loved. Then, Joe sits down with Mehrel to discuss her acclaimed debut feature, HONEYJOON, a moving and surprisingly funny story about love, loss, grief, desire, and healing. Filmed entirely on location in Portugal's breathtaking Azores, the film follows a mother and daughter navigating profound loss while rediscovering life, connection, and themselves. The conversation explores the film's emotional origins, shooting in one of the world's most beautiful locations, creating authentic mother-daughter dynamics, balancing comedy with heartbreak, and what it takes to bring an independent feature from script to screen. HONEYJOON follows a mother and daughter traveling to the Azores after a family loss, where they confront grief, connection, and the possibility of moving forward. Whether you're a fan of independent cinema, stories about family and healing, or simply love hearing filmmakers discuss their creative process, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen now and discover why HONEYJOON is connecting so deeply with audiences. 🎙️🎬✨ Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Everything, Everywhere, All at Once... Except a Day Off: Jennifer Levinson's Hollywood Journey | 09 juin 2026 | 01:00:26 | |
Actress, writer, and producer Jennifer Levinson knows a thing or two about wearing multiple hats. Best known for writing, producing, and starring in the acclaimed dramedy TRUST, Levinson joins The Fixate & Binge Podcast for a candid conversation about navigating the unpredictable realities of a career in Hollywood. From memorable auditions and hard-earned lessons to the importance of maintaining a sense of humor when things don't go according to plan, Jennifer reflects on the experiences that shaped her both professionally and personally. She discusses how her definition of success has evolved over the years, why staying creatively active matters, and how resilience often proves more valuable than talent alone. Jennifer also shares practical advice for aspiring actors, reveals the single best piece of acting advice she ever received, and offers an honest look at the challenges and rewards of working in an industry that can be equal parts inspiring and unforgiving. Warm, funny, insightful, and refreshingly honest, this episode is a must-listen for anyone pursuing a creative career—or anyone who has ever wondered what it really takes to keep showing up when the spotlight isn't guaranteed. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| HOW HORROR BECAME HOLLYWOOD'S BIGGEST BOOM: Fear, Profit & the Future of Cinema | 02 juin 2026 | 00:43:50 | |
Horror films are no longer Hollywood’s outcasts — they may be its smartest success story. In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, we explore how horror evolved from niche genre fare into one of the most culturally relevant and financially powerful forces in modern cinema. From allegories of social anxiety and political unrest to the genre’s uniquely low-risk, high-reward business model, horror continues to thrive where many blockbuster formulas struggle. We examine why audiences increasingly connect with fear-driven storytelling, how viral marketing and online word-of-mouth have transformed horror into a built-in event genre, and why films like THE CONJURING franchise, Curry Barker’s OBSESSION, and Kane Parsons’ BACKROOMS reveal a changing Hollywood landscape. Is horror simply profitable — or has it become the genre that best understands our fears, our culture, and the future of cinema itself? Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| From GRAVITY FALLS to X-FILES: The Ultimate Teen & Tween Summer Watch List | 26 mai 2026 | 00:41:50 | |
Parents, we know the struggle: school’s out, it’s 100 degrees outside, you’re working… and the kids are home asking, “What should we watch?” This week, The Fixate & Binge Podcast becomes your summer streaming lifeline with binge-worthy TV picks for tweens and teens. From MALCOLM IN THE MIDDLE and LEGO MASTERS to GRAVITY FALLS, SWEET TOOTH, WEDNESDAY, THE X-FILES, ONE PIECE, classic seasons of THE SIMPSONS, and more, Joe Curdy breaks down great shows and exactly where to stream them. Plus: a spoiler-free reaction to STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU. Smart picks, fun picks, nostalgic picks — your family’s next binge starts here. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| The Forgotten Grindhouse Fever Dream of MATADOR BOLERO | Jonathan Rosado Interview | 19 mai 2026 | 00:51:34 | |
On this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, writer/director Jonathan Rosado joins the show to discuss his surreal new feature MATADOR BOLERO — a hypnotic midnight-art-house experience blending dream logic, symbolic imagery, exploitation cinema, and cosmic mystery. Shot on Super 8mm and starring experimental music artist Yves Tumor in a mesmerizing acting debut, the film evokes the psychosexual nightmare logic of David Lynch and the surrealist symbolism of Alejandro Jodorowsky while carving out a strange identity all its own. Jonathan discusses the film’s visual language, retro grindhouse aesthetic, underground influences, fragmented storytelling, and the challenge of crafting a cinematic experience driven more by mood, texture, and emotional immersion than conventional narrative structure. We also explore cult cinema, surrealism, midnight movies, and why films like MATADOR BOLERO feel increasingly rare in modern independent filmmaking. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| When America Fell in Love With Villains: Did Prestige TV Break Our Moral Compass? | 12 mai 2026 | 00:43:28 | |
What if television didn’t just reflect America’s changing morals… but helped shape them? For over two decades, audiences have celebrated antiheroes like Tony Soprano, Walter White, Dexter Morgan, and Ray Shoesmith — deeply flawed men whose violence, corruption, and manipulation become strangely acceptable because we understand their motivations. In this provocative solo discussion, Joe Curdy explores the rise of morally gray storytelling and asks an uncomfortable question: Did America become so conditioned to rooting for antiheroes that we started doing the same thing in real life? Connecting prestige television to modern politics, celebrity culture, and the growing belief that “the ends justify the means,” this episode examines how the antihero became America’s favorite archetype — and what that says about us now. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| LOUDER THAN GUNS: Director Doug Pray on Music, Dialogue, and America's Gun Divide | 05 mai 2026 | 00:41:42 | |
Acclaimed documentary filmmaker Doug Pray joins The Fixate & Binge Podcast to discuss his powerful new film, LOUDER THAN GUNS, created on the road alongside Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show. Following the tragic 2023 Covenant School shooting in Nashville, Secor embarked on a deeply personal journey to bridge America's seemingly impossible divide over gun rights and gun violence. Traveling across the country during Old Crow Medicine Show's concert tour, the filmmakers transformed barbershops, barbecue joints, churches, and gun stores into spaces for honest, compassionate conversation. Doug shares the origins of the documentary, the challenges of navigating one of America's most emotionally charged issues, and how music became an unlikely vehicle for empathy, healing, and meaningful dialogue. We also explore the unique role Ketch Secor played in disarming participants, finding common ground, and proving that civil discourse remains possible—even in our most polarized times. This is a thoughtful, timely conversation about documentary filmmaking, storytelling, and the urgent need to rediscover how to talk to one another. Joe also shares a spoiler-free reaction to Damian McCarthy's latest folk horror film HOKUM. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Lost Luggage, Family Baggage, and KANGAROO ISLAND with Screenwriter Sally Gifford & Director Timothy David | 28 avr. 2026 | 01:03:18 | |
Few films capture the beauty, heartbreak, and humor of family quite like KANGAROO ISLAND, and this week, writer Sally Gifford and director Timothy David join The Fixate & Binge Podcast for a wonderful conversation about their acclaimed 2025 drama. Fresh off my 4.5-star review, Sally and Tim joined me from their beachfront vacation home in Maui to discuss the inspiration behind this moving story of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the complicated ties that bind us. We explore Sally's richly layered screenplay, Tim's assured feature directorial debut, and how the film expertly balances emotional drama with moments of genuine levity—including that unforgettable lost luggage running gag. We also dive into the extraordinary performances from Rebecca Breeds, Adelaide Clemens, and Erik Thomson, the breathtaking beauty of Australia's Kangaroo Island, and the unique creative partnership that comes from making a deeply personal film as husband and wife. If you love intelligent family dramas, behind-the-scenes filmmaking stories, and passionate conversations about great cinema, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| The A Cappella Documentary Everyone’s Talking About — JUST SING (with Its Creators) | 21 avr. 2026 | 00:54:28 | |
🎙️The A Cappella Documentary Everyone’s Talking About — JUST SING (with Its Creators) After an incredible conversation, host Joe is joined by co-directors and cinematographers Abraham “Abie” Troen and Angelique Molina to dive into their electrifying new documentary JUST SING — hitting theaters nationwide on April 24, 2026. This isn’t just a music documentary. It’s a front-row seat to ambition, vulnerability, and the emotional highs and lows of college performers chasing something bigger than themselves. Shot in an intimate vérité style, JUST SING puts you inside the journey — from cramped dorm rooms to the high-stakes final competition in New York City. With a striking blend of cinematic precision and raw, handheld immediacy, Troen and Molina capture both the spectacle and the deeply personal moments in between. In this episode, we explore:
It’s a conversation about storytelling, artistry, and the courage it takes to put yourself out there — on stage and behind the camera. If you love documentaries, music, or stories about chasing something meaningful… this one hits.
JUST SING is a vérité documentary that immerses viewers in the world of its characters, capturing intimate, up-close moments in their college lives. From cramped dorm rooms to the wings of performance venues, the camera acts as a fly on the wall, quietly observing pivotal moments for both the individual singers and the team as a whole.As co-directors and co-cinematographers, we opted for prime lenses to create a high-end, observational style that evokes the feel of an indie narrative film. Each lens choice, made on the fly, reflects the duality of the journey—the weight of chasing big dreams and the raw joy of singing. A wide 15mm lens and drone shots convey the looming sky over New York City's final competition, while a 125mm lens captures intimate, nervous moments behind the scenes, where the stakes are personal. This balance between the big picture and small, emotional moments reflects the essence of the story.For camerawork, we used a mix of steady, polished shots with the Alexa Mini for campus scenes, paired with smaller, handheld cameras for vérité moments. The goal was to stay close to our participants, allowing the camera to move with them, unobtrusive yet present, so the audience feels like part of the team.Interviews were filmed on-the-fly, often while our subjects were in transit or preparing for class, and in intimate sit-down settings where they felt comfortable—dorm rooms or rehearsal spaces with soft, natural lighting. The intent was to keep the look unpolished yet flattering, allowing viewers toconnect with the subjects on a deeper, more empathetic level, rooting for them as they navigate their coming-of-age journey. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| He’s Back: Co-Creator and former co-host Jared Clavin Returns for a Binge- Worthy Podcast Reunion! | 14 avr. 2026 | 01:03:22 | |
After nearly two years away, original co-creator and co-host Jared Clavin returns to Fixate & Binge for a long-overdue reunion—and it’s like he never left.
Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Gas Prices are up...So we're staying in (and watching everything!): A Spring Break & Easter Weekend Survival Guide for Families | 07 avr. 2026 | 00:47:36 | |
With travel plans on hold and gas prices soaring, Spring Break and Easter Weekend are looking a little different this year—but that doesn’t mean they can’t be unforgettable. In this special episode, we’re turning your living room into the ultimate entertainment hub with acarefully curated lineup of family-friendly favorites, meaningful Easter classics, and binge-worthy series for every age group.
Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| PROJECT HAIL MARY: Finding Friendship at the Edge of the Universe | 31 mars 2026 | 00:41:14 | |
In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, we dive deep into PROJECT HAIL MARY—the ambitious sci-fi adaptation of Andy Weir’s bestselling novel, brought to the screen by Drew Goddard and directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. Starring Ryan Gosling and Sandra Hüller, the film blends the awe of INTERSTELLAR with the wit and problem-solving ingenuity of THE MARTIAN—but ultimately becomes something far more unexpected. This episode explores how PROJECT HAIL MARY uses science not just as spectacle, but as a pathway to something deeply human. From its inventive structure and practical effects to its emotional core—centered on an unlikely friendship between man and alien—we break down why this film stands among the most meaningful sci-fi stories in years, echoing classics like CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND and E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL. We also touch on early Oscar buzz, the film’s philosophical themes of survival and sacrifice, and why its biggest surprise isn’t its science—but its heart. Plus, quick streaming recommendations to kick things off, including PRIMAL and Season 2 of JURY DUTY PRESENTS: COMPANY RETREAT. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| I Worked With Chuck Norris — The Untold Side of a Legend | Oscars 2026 Hits & Misses | 24 mars 2026 | 00:46:38 | |
In this deeply personal solo episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I take a moment to reflect on the life and legacy of Chuck Norris following his passing at age 86. I share my firsthand experience working with Chuck on the 1993 film SIDEKICKS, where I spent six days on set as a featured extra—interacting with him, observing his professionalism, and witnessing the humility and kindness that defined him behind the scenes. I also talk about a lesser-known chapter of my journey—auditioning for the pilot of WALKER, TEXAS RANGER, and how that opportunity ultimately slipped away before filming began. In the second half of the episode, I shift gears to break down the 2026 Academy Awards—owning up to what I predicted correctly, what I completely missed, and what surprised me most from this year’s ceremony. I also briefly weigh in on READY OR NOT 2: HERE I COME and whether the sequel lives up to the bite of the original. A tribute, a reflection, and a reality check—all in one episode. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| 🎙️Working With David Fincher & Ridley Scott: Sam Troughton Tells All | Ep. 200 | 17 mars 2026 | 01:02:54 | |
On the 200th episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy and DiAnte Jenkins sit down with actor SAM TROUGHTON for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at working with two of the most iconic filmmakers in the world: David Fincher and Ridley Scott. Having appeared in MANK and NAPOLEON, Sam breaks down the stark contrast between Fincher’s meticulous, detail-obsessed approach and Scott’s fast-moving, large-scale filmmaking style—offering insight into how each director shapes performance, tone, and the on-set experience. Beyond the director deep dive, the conversation explores Sam’s acting roots as the grandson of Patrick Troughton and son of David Troughton, and how he’s carved out his own path across stage, television, and film. Plus, the hosts revisit Sam's other film and television work:
A must-listen for film lovers, this milestone episode celebrates 200 installments of Fixate & Binge with an inside look at two radically different masters of modern cinema. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| When the World Is on Fire… Do Movies Still Matter? | 10 mars 2026 | 00:42:08 | |
This week on The Fixate & BInge Podcast, host Joe Curdy wrestles with a question many entertainment shows avoid: should a movie podcast stay an escape from the real world — or acknowledge the world we’re living in? In a solo episode, Joe reflects on the idea of keeping the podcast a “safe haven” for film and television lovers while also feeling the responsibility to speak about current events and their cultural impact. Against the backdrop of rising global tensions — including a brief look at the complicated history between the United States and Iran — Joe considers how art, storytelling, and cinema help us process uncertain times. The episode also includes an inspiring excerpt from a eulogy delivered by Barack Obama honoring civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, reminding listeners why hope and perspective still matter. Plus, Joe dives into several new releases and recommendations:
It’s an honest conversation about movies, culture, and the role entertainment plays when the world outside the theater feels uncertain. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| GUNFIGHTER PARADISE: Jethro Waters on Faith, Madness & the Dark Side of Patriotism | 03 mars 2026 | 00:46:47 | |
On this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker Jethro Waters to explore his audacious new indie film, GUNFIGHTER PARADISE. We dive into the film’s daring exploration of faith, madness, and the dark side of patriotism, unpacking how religion, politics, and American myth shape its story and characters. Rooted deeply in southern culture and informed by Waters’ own lived experiences, the film reflects on the worrying directions such cultural leanings may take. Featuring acclaimed actress Jessica Hecht (SEINFELD, BREAKING BAD), who brings depth to its enigmatic characters, GUNFIGHTER PARADISE is a surreal, provocative journey through morality, identity, and the American psyche. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| "Horror with a Heartbeat: The Adams Family on MOTHER OF FLIES, Shudder, and Surviving Cancer" | 24 févr. 2026 | 00:44:40 | |
In this deeply moving episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy sits down with filmmakers Toby Poser, John Adams — the creative force collectively known as the Adams Family — to discuss their haunting folk-horror film MOTHER OF FLIES, streaming on Shudder (via AMC+). Filmed in the misty isolation of New York’s Catskill Mountains, MOTHER OF FLIES evokes an ancient, folk-horror sensibility rooted in landscape, ritual, and psychological unease. But what emerges in conversation is something even more powerful. Toby and John speak candidly about surviving cancer — and how that battle with mortality has shaped not only this film, but their body of work as a whole. The film’s meditation on death, resilience, and transformation isn’t abstract — it’s personal. Joe and the Adams Family explore how horror can serve as both confrontation and catharsis, how independent filmmaking becomes an act of survival, and why facing darkness on screen can illuminate what matters most in life. A conversation about art, family, fear — and the heartbeat that continues beneath it all. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Built for the Grind: Mike Ferguson on the Indie Film Hustle and BLACKOUT! | 17 févr. 2026 | 00:46:19 | |
He’s back — and he’s not slowing down. With over 200 IMDb credits, a growing YouTube presence, and a real-life stonework business that literally keeps him grounded, Mike Ferguson is redefining what it means to be a modern working actor. In this episode, Mike returns to discuss his latest film, BLACKOUT — an apocalyptic story set in a a rapidly devolving Los Angeles, where survival isn’t guaranteed. But off-screen, Mike’s career mirrors that same intensity. No safety net. No waiting around. Just momentum. We talk about balancing independent film with blue-collar craftsmanship, building an audience on YouTube, staying mentally sharp in an industry that chews people up, and why discipline — not luck — is the real currency in Hollywood. This isn’t just a conversation about acting. It’s about durability. Reinvention. And the mindset required to keep building when most people would burn out. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| From Spielberg to the Safdie Brothers: The Life of a Real Working Actor! | 10 févr. 2026 | 01:16:22 | |
Queens, New York City writer, actor, producer Phil Cappadora joins The Fixate & Binge Podcast for a candid, uplifting conversation about the reality of being a working actor—one with real credits, real momentum, and real patience. From collaborating with the Safdie brothers (GOOD TIME) to appearing in Steven Spielberg films (THE POST, BRIDGE OF SPIES) and acclaimed TV series like BOARDWALK EMPIRE and Netflix's DAREDEVIL and JESSICA JONES, Phil shares what it’s actually like to build a career step by step—while still waiting for the role that changes everything. This episode is a celebration of persistence, craft, and showing up—even when the finish line isn’t visible yet. A must-listen for actors, creatives, and anyone chasing a dream that refuses to be rushed! Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| From Bangkok with Laughs: POLICE ACADEMY 2, WICKER PARK, and Assigned Viewing Gone Right! | 03 févr. 2026 | 01:02:03 | |
What happens when two longtime friends assign each other movies they’ve never (or barely) seen? Filmmaker Chris Cowden returns to the podcast from Bangkok for a nostalgic laugh-fest revisiting POLICE ACADEMY 2 (1985) followed by a surprisingly rich discussion of obsession, romance, and coincidence in WICKER PARK (2004). Along the way, we unpack how time, memory, and mood shape our relationship with movies — and close things out with a timely look at Ryan Coogler's SINNERS, fresh off its historic 16 Oscar nominations. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| PLACE YOUR BETS! Writer & Director DiAnté Jenkins Makes His 2026 Oscar Predictions! | 27 janv. 2026 | 01:24:03 | |
PLACE YOUR BETS! Award season obsession officially begins on The Fixate & Binge Podcast as filmmaker and returning favorite DiAnté Jenkins stops by to make his early predictions for the 2026 Academy Awards. A writer, director, and cinematographer based in Washington, DC, DiAnté has earned a reputation as an uncannily accurate Oscar forecaster—and this episode puts his track record to the test. Together, host Joe Curdy and Jenkins break down the year’s most talked-about contenders across all the major categories, from Best Picture and Director to the acting races and below-the-line standouts, weighing momentum, industry politics, and the kinds of performances the Academy can’t resist. It’s part film criticism, part awards-season strategy session, and fully geeky in the best way—perfect for anyone who lives for prediction charts, nomination morning chaos, and arguing about “lock” versus “long shot.” Plus, Joe also delivers a thoughtful review of Chloé Zhao's HAMNET, examining its emotional weight, artistry, and place within Zhao’s evolving filmography. So grab your ballot, sharpen your hot takes, and place your bets—Oscar season has officially begun. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| The Many Lives of Larry Bagby -- Acting, Music, BAND ON THE RUN, with Writer & Director Jeff Hupp, Part 2 | 20 janv. 2026 | 00:51:39 | |
In Part Two of The Fixate & Binge Podcast’s conversation with actor and musician Larry Bagby and BAND ON THE RUN writer-director Jeff Hupp, the focus turns to legacy, collaboration, and the moments that define a creative life. The episode opens with host Joe Curdy offering a quick rundown of what’s currently on his radar — including early thoughts on A KNIGHT OF THE SEVEN KINGDOMS, why he's holding out to binge all episodes of season 2 of HBO's THE PITT — followed by his Letterboxd review of the new horror film 28 YEARS LATER: THE BONE TEMPLE. From there, the discussion returns to Bagby, as he reflects on one of the most beloved chapters of his career: Disney’s modern classic HOCUS POCUS. Bagby shares behind-the-scenes memories, the unexpected cultural longevity of the film, and how its enduring popularity reshaped both his career and his connection with audiences. Bagby also pulls back the curtain on working with Academy Award winners Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon in James Mangold's WALK THE LINE. Jeff Hupp remains an essential voice throughout the conversation, offering thoughtful insight into Bagby’s creative journey, their shared work on BAND ON THE RUN, and the rare chemistry that develops when actor and filmmaker truly trust one another. Together, Bagby and Hupp reflect on how their collaboration strengthened the film’s emotional core — and hint at the possibility of future projects still to come. The episode reaches a special, intimate highlight when Bagby performs a live, original song from BAND ON THE RUN, giving listeners a powerful glimpse into his artistry as both a musician and storyteller. Warm, reflective, and full of heart, Part Two celebrates not only Bagby’s enduring career, but also the collaborative spirit between artist and filmmaker — bringing this two-part Fixate & Binge journey to a thoughtful and inspiring close. Please note: Due to minor technical issues during recording, some audio may feature a slight echo — thank you for your patience and understanding. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| The Many Lives of Larry Bagby -- Acting, Music, BAND ON THE RUN, with Writer & Director Jeff Hupp, Part 1 | 13 janv. 2026 | 00:45:28 | |
In Part One of a two-part Fixate & Binge Podcast special, host Joe Curdy sits down with longtime Hollywood actor and musician Larry Bagby and BAND ON THE RUN writer-director Jeff Hupp for a lively, wide-ranging conversation about creativity, longevity, and the many chapters of a life in entertainment. Best known to fans for his memorable turns in television (MARRIED WITH CHILDREN, MALCOLM IN THE MIDDLE, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER and others) and film — from cult-favorite genre projects (HOCUS POCUS) to mainstream Hollywood (WALK THE LINE) — Bagby reflects on the twists and turns of his acting career, the freedom he’s found through music, and how both paths collide in BAND ON THE RUN, an indie film about chasing dreams before time runs out. Hupp joins the conversation to explore how the film came together, how Bagby helped shape its emotional core, and what it takes to bring a personal, passion-driven project to life. Lighthearted, insightful, and full of behind-the-scenes stories, this first chapter sets the stage for a deeper dive into BAND ON THE RUN and the collaborative spirit that made it possible — with Part Two continuing the journey. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Goodbye STRANGER THINGS, Hello 2026: The TV Shows and Films Worth Getting Excited About This Year! | 05 janv. 2026 | 00:45:44 | |
Goodbye, STRANGER THINGS... ...hello, 2026, marks the start of a new year — and the end of an era. As one of the most influential TV series of the past decade officially comes to a close, The Fixate & Binge Podcastreflects on what made STRANGER THINGS resonate so deeply — this time through a fresh voice that reminds us how and why lifelong fandoms are born. From there, the conversation turns forward, spotlighting the most anticipated tv shows and films of 2026 — from major returning series and long-awaited new releases to a stacked slate of upcoming horror films and blockbuster events. It’s an episode about endings and beginnings, fear and excitement, and the stories that connect generations — setting the tone for a year of watching, anticipating, and loving great movies and television. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| 🎬Rewind 2025: 18 Conversations That Defined THE FIXATE & BINGE PODCAST w/ Joe Curdy🎙️ | 30 déc. 2025 | 01:10:58 | |
Fifty episodes. Eighteen clips. One unforgettable year. To close out 2025, The Fixate & Binge Podcast does something a little different. This special milestone episode brings together 18 standout moments from conversations with filmmakers, actors, writers, producers, critics, and creatives from around the world — moments that stayed with me long after the microphones were turned off. There’s no narration layered over these clips. No analysis interrupting them. Just the voices — candid, thoughtful, funny, vulnerable — speaking for themselves. Across these excerpts, you’ll hear stories about:
This episode is both a thank-you and a time capsule: If you discovered a new film, a new artist, or a new perspective through The Fixate & Binge Podcast this year — I’m deeply grateful. Here’s to the conversations that defined 2025… and to what’s coming next. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| 🎙️ Podcast Stew: Rob Reiner’s Film Legacy, a Wild Boxing Weekend & a Spoiler-Free Take on AVATAR: FIRE & ASH! | 23 déc. 2025 | 00:53:59 | |
In a rare solo episode after ten straight guest interviews, Joe Curdy returns to the mic solo with a full-on Podcast Stew — a wide-ranging, unfiltered mix of film reflection, pop-culture spectacle, and spoiler-free criticism. The episode opens with reflections on Rob Reiner and his enduring film legacy, using his body of work as a reminder of how cinema can shape memory, comfort, and cultural conversation. From there, the discussion pivots sharply — and unapologetically — to a reaction to a headline-grabbing boxing weekend, breaking down the spectacle, stakes, and shock value of influencer-era fights colliding with real knockout power. The episode ultimately circles back to the movies, with a spoiler-free deep dive into James Cameron’s AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH, including a full reading of Joe’s Letterboxd review and thoughts on where Cameron’s evolving Avatar saga stands within modern blockbuster filmmaking. Loose by design but thoughtful throughout, this Podcast Stew captures the energy of a critic thinking out loud — where legacy, spectacle, and cinema all end up in the same bowl. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Eight Days, One shot: Writer/Director Jeff Hupp on the Inspiration for his 2025 Film BAND ON THE RUN | 16 déc. 2025 | 01:01:22 | |
Writer/director Jeff Hupp joins The Fixate & Binge Podcast to discuss his 2025 indie feature BAND ON THE RUN— a heartfelt, DIY road-trip film shot in just eight days that captures a fleeting moment in the late 1990s Detroit Garage Rock scene. Centered on the rock trio 'Hot Freaks', the film follows drummer Jesse Grant (Matthew Perl) as he rallies his bandmates to chase a last-chance opportunity to play SXSW, hoping to escape the gravitational pull of dead-end jobs and inherited disappointment. What begins as a familiar “band on the road” story becomes something more intimate when Jesse’s paraplegic father (Larry Bagby) joins the journey — grounding the film in a deeply human exploration of ambition, regret, and the fragile bond between parent and child. In this conversation, Hupp reflects on Detroit’s often-overlooked music history, the realities of ultra-low-budget filmmaking, his own background in advertising, and why Band on the Run is ultimately less about success than the courage to try. Drawing inspiration from films like ALMOST FAMOUS and THE COMMITMENTS, the episode celebrates artists who dare to take their shot — even when the odds are stacked against them. Band on the Run is now streaming on Amazon Prime! Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| From SXSW to Netflix: Writer and Director Freddy Macdonald’s Wild Ride With His Swiss Alps Thriller -- SEW TORN! | 09 déc. 2025 | 00:58:06 | |
This week on The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe sits down with writer/director Freddy Macdonald -- the breakout filmmaker behind the Neo-noir crime caper SEW TORN, which premiered at the 2024 SXSW and went on to debut on streaming giants like Amazon Prime and -- as of December 1, 2025 -- now on Netflix! Shot on location in the Swiss Alps SEW TORN. follows introverted seamstress Barbara Duggen (Eve Connelly) as one split-second decision on a quiet mountain road spirals into a clever, triple-threaded narrative. With a structure reminiscent of RUN LOLA RUN, the film explores how a single moment can unravel in wildly different ways — each with its own consequence. Joe and Freddy dive deep into:
Warm, candid, and insightful, this conversation highlights the creativity and determination behind one of the most inventive indie thrillers of the year. If you loved Sew Torn or you’re fascinated by breakout filmmakers who turn a bold idea into a career-defining debut, this episode is a must-listen. Streaming now on Netflix. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Arrested Development in Hawaiʻi: Talking CHAPERONE (2024) with writer/director Zoë Eisenberg & star Mitzi Akaha | 02 déc. 2025 | 00:52:07 | |
In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, host Joe Curdy sits down with writer/director Zoë Eisenberg and starring actress Mitzi Akaha to unpack their acclaimed 2024 indie film CHAPERONE -- a poignant, quietly powerful coming-of-age story set against the lush, time-suspended backdrop of Hawaiʻi. Drawing on his own experiences living in Hawaiʻi, Joe explores the film’s deeply human themes from the film: arrested development, identity, the illusion of timelessness in Hawaiʻi and the inevitable drift into adulthood. Mitzi Akaha discusses her nuanced performance as Misha — a 29-year-old woman caught between youth and maturity — while Zoë Eisenberg reflects on crafting a narrative that examines age-gap dynamics, personal agency, and the consequences of refusing to grow up. The conversation delves into:
Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Sibling Bonds, Autism, and Pure Heart: A Talk with the Cast & Director of this Year's Indie Gem HELLBENT ON BOOGIE | 25 nov. 2025 | 01:10:39 | |
In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, host Joe sits down with writer/director Vito Trupiano, actor Shiloh Fernandez, and breakout newcomer Alyx Ruibal to dive deep into their heartfelt 2024 film HELLBENT ON BOOGIE. They discuss the origins of this unexpectedly tender story, the challenges and joys of making an intimate family drama, and the genuine on-screen chemistry that drives the film. Alyx opens up about portraying Quinn, a character with Autism — an experience rooted in her own lived perspective — while Shiloh shares what drew him to the role of Alan, the well-meaning, rough-edged older brother fighting to help his sister chase her dream. Vito offers a behind-the-camera look at his filming approach, balancing grit, humor, and emotional honesty in a story that recalls LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE and WHAT'S EATING GILBERT GRAPE. With great vibes and even greater heart, this conversation celebrates authenticity, family, and the power of telling stories that matter. HELLBENT ON BOOGIE is now streaming on TUBI, MUBI, and Apple TV. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Inside American Skyjacker: Filmmakers Eli Kooris & Joshua Shaffer on Martin McNally’s Wild True Crime Story | 18 nov. 2025 | 00:41:16 | |
Ladies and gentlemen, please make sure your seatbelt is fastened and that your seat and tray tables are in the upright position! This week on The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I’m joined by directors Eli Kooris and Joshua Shaffer, the creative force behind AMERICAN SKYJACKER, a wild and gripping docudrama chronicling Martin McNally’s audacious 1972 skyjacking and the five-day national chase that followed. We dive into the film’s tense reenactments, its interview access to McNally himself, and the jaw-dropping second act set inside Leavenworth Penitentiary. Eli and Joshua reveal how this story evolved from their award-winning podcast into a long-developed passion project heading to theaters later this year. Before we jump in, I also share my quick reaction to Guillermo Del Toro's FRANKENSTEIN (2025) on Netflix. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Love, Doubt, and Honesty: Inside the 2025 SXSW Indie Sensation I REALLY LOVE MY HUSBAND w/ director GG Hawkins and actress Madison Lanesey (Part 2) | 11 nov. 2025 | 00:44:14 | |
On this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, host Joe sits down with acclaimed writer-filmmaker GG HAWKINS and writer-actor MADISON LANESEY to discuss their bold and intimate new film, I REALLY LOVE MY HUSBAND. Set against the lush backdrop of Panama, the film examines love, honesty, and what it means to truly know your partner -- and yourself. Together, Hawkins and Lanesey share the tory behind crafting a modern exploration of marriage that subverts romantic expectations and dives deep into the complexities of intimacy and self-truth. With Joe's signature thoughtful commentary and his early review already praising the film's courage and authenticity, this conversation goes beyond plot to explore creative risk, emotional honesty, and the realties of bringing such a raw, personal story to life. This is the first in a 2-part podcast -- tune in next week for the concluding 2nd part! Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Love, Doubt, and Honesty: Inside the 2025 SXSW Indie Sensation I REALLY LOVE MY HUSBAND w/ director GG Hawkins and actress Madison Lanesey (Part 1) | 04 nov. 2025 | 00:41:17 | |
On this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, host Joe sits down with acclaimed writer-filmmaker GG HAWKINS and writer-actor MADISON LANESEY to discuss their bold and intimate new film, I REALLY LOVE MY HUSBAND. Set against the lush backdrop of Panama, the film examines love, honesty, and what it means to truly know your partner -- and yourself. Together, Hawkins and Lanesey share the tory behind crafting a modern exploration of marriage that subverts romantic expectations and dives deep into the complexities of intimacy and self-truth. With Joe's signature thoughtful commentary and his early review already praising the film's courage and authenticity, this conversation goes beyond plot to explore creative risk, emotional honesty, and the realties of bringing such a raw, personal story to life. This is the first in a 2-part podcast -- tune in next week for the concluding 2nd part! Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||
| Inside BAD MAN: Director Michael Diliberti & Star Johnny Simmons on Dark Comedy, Chaos, and Small-Town Crime | 28 oct. 2025 | 01:22:19 | |
Host Joe Curdy sits down with writer-director Michael Diliberti and actor Johnny Simmons to talk about their new 2025 action-comedy film BAD MAN — a wildly entertaining, small-town crime farce starring Seann William Scott, Rob Riggle, and the late Chance Perdomo. The conversation dives into the film’s creation, the mix of chaos and charm behind its southern-fried humor, and how the cast brought this offbeat world of loveable lawmen and outlaws to life. From writing and production challenges to capturing the spirit of SUPER TROOPERS crossed with NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN for a new generation, Diliberti and Simmons share stories from the set, insights into their characters, and what made BAD MAN such a memorable and heartfelt project — both on and off camera. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! | |||