Watching The Directors

WTDSE06: Anniversary and Finale

Tue, 8 Jul 2008 04:05:00 GMT

After 60 podcasts, 52 directors and too many films to count, Watching The Directors is bowing out. On this, our second anniversary show and series finale, we try to go out with a frenzy of lists, listener mail, reviews and discussion. Join us as we follow last year's anniversary with our Season 2 10 lists of essential films and insider films.
We also add a couple final reviews with a look at the most requested films of the year: The Coen Brothers' No Country For Old Men and P.T. Anderson's There Will Be Blood.
Plus, just to show we won't be completely gone forever, we talk a bit about upcoming episodes of our lingering podcast Watching Theology.
(Next Watching Theology: Lars and the Real Girl, July 11)
Music by Sufjan Stevens from The Avalanche
Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty Records

Coming Soon

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 05:29:00 GMT

WTD43: Alfred Hitchcock Part 1 (The British Talkies)

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 05:09:00 GMT

Now, after great confusion, comes the single-most requested episode of WTD: the elusive Part 1 (of 3) in Hitchcock's filmography. Beginning with prototypical mistaken identity/murder suspense thriller of Blackmail, and moving through landmarks like The Lady Vanishes, we look over the formative years of one of the most iconic directors of the twentieth century. On this episode we explore the British era of Hitch's work, culminating in the bizarre, romantic thriller, Rebecca.
And, we also make an important announcement about the future (a short future) of the show.
(Next WTD: Anniversary Show, July 8)
(Next Watching Theology: Lars and the Real Girl)
Music by My Brightest Diamond from A Thousand Shark's Teeth
Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty Records

WTD43: The Hitchcock Ten Quiz

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 04:23:00 GMT

In the collective genius that is the Ten Quiz, we take a gander at the second-most forgotten era of a great director's work. Along with the hosts' own insights, listeners have provided true insight into Sir Alfred's films, from the first murder with sound in Blackmail to the last British film (or first American), Rebecca.

Coming Soon

Tue, 3 Jun 2008 12:00:00 GMT

WTD42: Michael Powell (stereo)

Tue, 3 Jun 2008 04:10:00 GMT

It's not hard to list directors from the studio era that are considered greats: Welles, Hawks, Wilder, Capra and Ford. But if you ask modern giant Martin Scorsese, he might remind you about a British director named Michael Powell. Together with long-time partner Emerich Pressburger, Powell formed the production company "The Archers." That team produced remarkable films that are generally underwatched and underappreciated in the United States. Whether it's the epic The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp, the dance masterpiece The Red Shoes or the mystic psychological tale of nuns in the Himalayas (Black Narcissus), The Archers have created an impressive body of work that deserves greater attention.
On this episode, we look at the work of Powell & Pressburger and are joined by John Damer, host of the podcast For Lack of a Better Word. Together, we try to get a handle on a large and substantial body of work.
(Next WTD: Alfred Hitchcock Part 1: The British Talkies, June 24)
(Next Watching Theology: Lars and the Real Girl, June 13)
Music by DM SMITH from an upcoming work
Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty Records

WTD42: Michael Powell (mono)

Tue, 3 Jun 2008 04:05:00 GMT

This is a mono edition of the lengthy and large Powell episode (35 MB vs. 71 MB).

Coming Soon

Tue, 13 May 2008 15:18:00 GMT

The Powell & Pressburger show presents a challenge for viewers in Region 1 North America. Several of the films in the official "Archers" catalog are unavailable through normal channels here in the states. So if you have a multi-region DVD player and a few contacts in the UK, you may want to call in some favors. If not, consider a few available Michael Powell, non-Archers projects like The Thief of Bagdad (1940), 49th Parallel or Peeping Tom.
We will be joined on this episode by John Damer (For Lack of a Better Word podcast).
Also, special thanks to Steve Crook from The Powell and Pressburger Appreciation Society for his assistance in defining The Archers filmography.

WTD41: Steven Soderbergh

Tue, 13 May 2008 15:08:00 GMT

There aren't many directors who get to be called "cool" as often as Mr. Steven Soderbergh. But the de facto chronicler of the new Rat Pack didn't start that way. Before Ocean's 11 (12 and 13), he was best known for a little indie film called Sex, Lies, and Videotape. That movie's frank dialogue and personal filmmaking style helped secure the power of Sundance and the rise of independent filmmakers everywhere. But Soderbergh also has some interest in how films are made, including the cameras and actors he uses - or if he should even use traditional cameras or actors.
In the nearly twenty years since he burst onto the scene, Soderbergh has become a new icon of American filmmaking.
(Note: The Ten Quiz program is slightly delayed. It will post soon.)
(Next WTD: The ArchersâPowell and Pressburger, June 2)
(Next Watching Theology: Raiders of the Lost Ark, May 27)
Music by SHAPES & SIZES from the album Split Lips, Winning Hips, A Shiner
Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty Records

Coming Soon

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:21:00 GMT

WTD40: Woody Allen (1966-85)

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:15:00 GMT

If you spend a little time with Woody Allen, you start to see things in a different way. New York is a city of romance, music, farce and love. And behind every relationship is a disfunction waiting to happen. On this episode, we look through Mr. Allen's eyes and come away shaped by a Freudian perspective. With comedies like Bananas and Sleeper, Allen demonstrated his appreciation for the old comics. With Manhattan, Annie Hall and The Purple Rose of Cairo, he showed he had his own ideas.
On this episode we look through the formative years into the glory age of Oscar nominations and Diane Keaton.
(Next WTD: Steven Soderbergh, May 15)
(Next Watching Theology: A Scanner Darkly, April 29)
Music by RAFTER from the album Sex Death Cassette
Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty Records

WTD40b: The Allen Ten Quiz

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:21:00 GMT

Judging by a few listener submitted lists, Woody Allen - in the period between 1966 and 1985 - is either one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, or a hack that should be resigned to direction late-night infommercials. We do all that we can to get to the truth through a stack of Ten Quizes and our own little insights.

Demme replaced

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 15:08:00 GMT

No offense against Mr. Demme (who has directed THE essential concert film), but we have tabled his show. While reading an excellent overview of the three Spalding Gray films on notcoming.com, I was reminded that Mr. Steven Soderbergh also directed one of those monologues. And, as way led onto way, we couldn't get Soderbergh out of our head. So May 13's episode 41 is now devoted to his work, and not only so we can justify getting around to watching Ocean's Thirteen... really.

Coming Soon

Wed, 2 Apr 2008 15:06:00 GMT

WTD39: Mira Nair

Wed, 2 Apr 2008 14:51:00 GMT

We all have a list of movies we keep meaning to watch: Citizen Kane, Birth of a Nation, anything from Fellini. But maybe there's some room on that list for Salaam Bombay!, Monsoon Wedding or The Namesake. In this episode we talk about the director of those films, Mira Nair, and her contribution to cinema. Nair's feature work over the last twenty years has been momentarily noticed and then neglected. But does it deserve more attention? Join us as we talk about the immigrant experience, literary filmmaking and perhaps suggest that Denzel Washington made a movie worse.
(Next WTD: Woody Allen 1966-1985, April 22)
(Next Watching Theology: The Wicker Man 1973, April 15)
Music by LIZ JANES from her album Poison & Snakes
Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty Records

Coming Soon

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:58:00 GMT

WTD38: Terry Gilliam (mono)

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:55:00 GMT

Due to the emensity of our Gilliam podcast, we are offering a smaller mp3 for download. The only difference (aside from about 40MB) is that this version is in glorious mono.
Of course the stereo version is still available.

WTD38: Terry Gilliam (stereo)

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:49:00 GMT

In this immense, action-packed edition of WTD, we take a long look at one of our most exciting and eloquent directors (or perhaps you would prefer another "e" adjective, like "egomaniacal"). Terry Gilliam has an identifiable aesthetic and a constant thematic affection that floats through all his movies - films like Brazil, 12 Monkeys and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. To discuss such a weighty filmmaker, we are joined by Duke Senter from the Degree of Separation podcast and veteran of the Tarantino and Kubrick episodes. So sit back and enjoy the mammoth episode with an extra 30 minutes of discussion that the studio wanted to cut and mangle, just like they did with Baron Munchausen.
(Next WTD: Mira Nair, April 1)
Music by CRYPTACIZE from their album Dig That Treasure
Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty Records
(Note: due to the size of this edition, an alternative "mono" edition is also available)

WTD38b: The Gilliam Ten Quiz (redux)

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:06:00 GMT

Perhaps "sw" may be on to something - maybe there is a "Gilliam curse" - but for whatever reason, the original posting of the Gilliam Ten Quiz show left some listeners with a 9-second show. So here is another attempt at posting that, this time in classic mono.

WTD38b: The Gilliam Ten Quiz

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 17:43:00 GMT

It's been quite a few years since Terry Gilliam was an animator. In fact, since then he's directed a small, but notably significant, group of films that use real actors in real(ish) situations. On this Ten Quiz program, we look at the mind and work of Mr. Gilliam as we read listener submitted comments and add our own limited insights on Brazil and Tideland.

Coming Soon

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 20:08:00 GMT

WTD37: Richard Linklater

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 20:03:00 GMT

Known as a champion of independent film to many, Richard Linklater has a keen interest in making movies about... nothing. Instead, he follows conversations with a camera, moving from Austin to Vienna to Paris (that French one) and back to Texas, viewers are treated to people talking more often than plots. On this episode we look at the work of Linklater who has given us iconic characters in Dazed and Confused, the essential couple-talk film with Before Sunrise and a mix of experiments and mainstream movies (i.e. Waking Life and School of Rock).
(Next WTD: Terry Gilliam, Mar 11)
Music by RAFTER from their album Sex Death Cassette
Courtesy of Ashtmatic Kitty Records

WTD37b: The Linklater Ten Quiz

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:58:00 GMT

Join us as we look through our stack of listener-submitted Ten Quizes, hoping to capture something of the enigma that is Richard Linklater. On this episode, we talk about a few surprises from Austin's favorite son. Of course, we do give a bit of time - perhaps too much time - to some of the failures of meat packing, little league baseball and Texas bank robbers.

Next Edition

Sat, 2 Feb 2008 17:18:00 GMT

WTD36: Akira Kurosawa (1948-58)

Sat, 2 Feb 2008 17:10:00 GMT

On this episode, we come dangerously close to starting a fan club. Akira Kurosawa is generally recognized as one of an elite class of filmmakers, a group whose names include Fellini, Hitchcock and Eisenstein. But knowing the legend and actually seeing the films produces a different, and surprising impression. Join us as we discuss an eleven year period of filmmaking that could easily be considered one of the most productive and influential ever compiled. Kurosawa may be known for The Seven Samurai and Rashomon, but there's more... a lot more.
(Next WTD: Richard Linklater, Feb. 19)
Download "Happiness Machine" (mp3)
from "Pax Futura"
by Oliver Future
Fireproof Recordings More On This Album

WTD36b: The Kurosawa Ten Quiz

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 18:39:00 GMT

Roger Ebert, in his review of The Seven Samurai, sneaks in a little comment with a lot of power: "this greatest of filmmakers." The "this" in that comment is none other than Akira Kurosawa, the subject of this episode's Ten Quiz. Join us as we talk about one of film's most vital and influential directors, breaking down such impossible questions, like, "How do you choose a worst film?"

Next Edition

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:53:00 GMT

WTD35a: John Carpenter (1976-96)

Tue, 8 Jan 2008 15:15:00 GMT

Ol' Jack Burton will tell you, this is the episode you need to listen to. In the hour that follows, we'll look at Jack, Snake, the Shape and other icons you would never have heard of without the peculiar mind and work of John Carpenter. Looking through twenty years of one of our most distinct and independent filmmakers we find a few gems and a few disasters. We start with an homage to Rio Bravo, hints of George Romero, references to Howard Hawks and Don Siegel - all blended with a premiere USC education and a lot of synthesizer work to create a true American institution.
(Next WTD: Akira Kurosawa 1948-58, Jan.29)
Tokyo Police Club
"Nature Of The Experiment" (mp3)
from "A Lesson In Crime"
(Paper Bag Records)

More On This Album

WTD35b: The Carpenter Ten Quiz

Tue, 8 Jan 2008 14:25:00 GMT

It's all about Kurt Russel... or is it? On our John Carpenter Ten Quiz edition, we break down the film, style, music and technique of Mr. Carpenter while trying to find something nice to say about Village of the Damned. Plus, on this very special edition, we are joined by Chris and Kathy Vander Kaay from the film podcast "The Studio Upstairs." (Note: this is longer than our usual Ten Quiz show - but that's just extra value.)

WTDSE05: Terrence Malick

Tue, 25 Dec 2007 18:30:00 GMT

On this special edition of WTD, we spend some time with a guy who we've heard a lot about, but seen little from. Terrence Malick is one of the most withdrawn but celbrated actors in American filmmaking despite having created only four feature films over the last 34 years (a fifth, Tree of Life, is currently in pre-production and slated for 2008).
Join us as we review Malick's work, aesthetic and affections.
(Note: Malick was selected as the winner of a recent listener poll. To qualify for a Special Edition, a director must have fewer than the five-film minimum required for a regular edition).

Next Edition

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 16:48:00 GMT

Special Edition

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 16:46:00 GMT

WTD34: Jane Campion

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 16:28:00 GMT

Jane Campion was something of a mystery in the 1990s. Her breakthrough film, The Piano, seemed to signal the emergence of an important new voice amidst a number of new and exciting voices (i.e. Fincher, Tarantino). Yet anticipation for her films has not followed those of her peers. Instead, much of Campion's work remains unseen by popular audiences. However, that hasn't kept critical voices from pointing to her as an important director capable of capturing elements of the human experience with unique style and insight. Join us on this episode as we look at the work of a director who might deserve a bit more attention than she gets.
Note: due to a lack of submissions, there is no 10 Quiz show attached to this episode
(Next WTD: Terrence Malick Special Edition)
Mobius Band
"Hallie" (mp3)
from "Heaven"
(Misra)

More On This Album

Campion delay

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 18:21:00 GMT

We are working on the upcoming Campion show, but may hold off a couple days due to a few factors: First, our Region 2 copy of Portrait of a Lady still hasn't arrived from the UK and, second, Melissa is still finishing her grading work for the end of the University quarter. So, those two or three of you that were anticipating Campion will have to wait a couple more days.

In the meantime... we noted that we would announce the winner of the upcoming Special Edition today. There may have been some slight voter fraud to make sure that Mr. Edgar Wright won, but - to give the benefit of the doubt - we watched Hot Fuzz last night and will be doing a special Watching Theology podcast on Shaun of the Dead. Instead, the Special Edition will go to Terrence Malick, due to publish on Christmas Day. And John Carpenter isn't too far away.

Thanks for your votes and your patience.

Next Edition

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 20:25:00 GMT

WTD33a: Leo McCarey (1931-62)

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 05:05:00 GMT

Jean Renoir once called Leo McCarey a great humanist, or, more precisely, said that McCarey understood people better than anyone in Hollywood. A few decades have passed and Mr. McCarey's legend has shifted to that of melodrama and family-friendly comedy. On this edition, we'll review a sliver of the director's work, reflecting on his contributions, his voice and whether it's time for a revisit of McCarey's legacy. Join us as we look at the monumental classics Duck Soup and An Affair To Remember, lament some lesser films and spend a little time talking Bing and Grant.
(Next WTD: Jane Campion - Dec 11)
Birds & Batteries
"I'll Never Sleep Again" (mp3)
from "I'll Never Sleep Again"
(Birds and Batteries)

WTD33b: The McCarey 10 Quiz

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 06:31:00 GMT

People love his films, but most just don't know it. On this edition we break down a small list of listener-submitted 10 Quizes, but still get a chance to talk a bit more about the man behind An Affair To Remember, The Awful Truth and Duck Soup... ("a bit" is the operative phrase). Join us for an appetizer-strength examination of one of the studio era's most honored directors.

Choose a Director

Sat, 17 Nov 2007 22:48:00 GMT

Last year, WTD featured a couple Christmas season Special Editions: Mel Gibson and our "Directors To Watch" feature. This Christmas we're at it again, looking at a director who doesn't quite meet our basic criterion of having five features. We've compiled a quick list of listener nominations and posted them on our poll.
Between now and Wednesday, November 28th we will accept votes on the poll and "other" nominations. (Note: this stage of the poll is set to allow multiple nominations.)
After that, until Friday, December 5th, we will post a new poll. This one will be a refined list of the top eight vote-getters plus the two most popular "other" nominations.
The winner of the poll will be announced on the December 11th Jane Campion edition. The show will publish Christmas Day.

Next Edition

Fri, 2 Nov 2007 17:24:00 GMT

WTD32a: James Whale

Fri, 2 Nov 2007 17:14:00 GMT

Some directors are destined to be remembered, others forgotten, and then there's James Whale - a director who is mostly obscured. Although he is known for his two landmark creations - the Frankenstein series and The Invisible Man - he actually did a bit more... a whole lot more. The problem is that his musical, Showboat, is hard to get hold of. His premiere World War I film, Journey's End, hasn't made it to the U.S. yet. But what does exist is provocative and fulfills the entertainer's mandate: leave them wanting more.
On this episode we take what we can get and explore the horror, humor and majesty of a brief but significant career.
(Next WTD: Leo McCarey 1931-62 - Nov 20)
Music by The Glare of Day (website)

WTD32b: The Whale Ten Quiz

Fri, 2 Nov 2007 02:45:00 GMT

There may not be a lot of films available on dvd. There may not even be a ton of listener-submitted 10 Quizes, but that doesn't mean there isn't at least thirty minutes of discussion about James Whale, his work and what we think about it. Join us for the show. It's not scary.

Kurosawa 1948-58 postponed

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 15:32:00 GMT

Yes, we've already moved Kurosawa 1948-58 once and we hate to do it again, but there's a really good reason. John - from the For Lack of a Better Word podcast - e-mailed us with a new release of Kurosawa's films on the Eclipse/Criterion label. Considering that some of these are very difficult to get hold of (if possible at all) and that this collection represents five films from the ten-year period we will be examining, we just had to wait (Eclipse Postwar Kurosawa set release date: Jan 15, 2008).
In Kurosawa's place, we're putting in a classic American director: Leo McCarey (1931-62). So watch Duck Soup, An Affair to Remember and The Bells of St. Mary and get ready for the new, rock-solid episode 33 of WTD.

Next Edition

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 17:24:00 GMT

WTD31a: Alfonso Cuaron

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 17:16:00 GMT

Over the last few years, the name "Alfonso CuarÃn" has gone from a buzz to a roar. After developing a remarkably fluid and visual style, CuarÃn earned critical praise with the Spanish-language Y tu mamÃ tambiÃn, Impressed blockbuster audiences by his transformation of the Harry Potter franchise and astounded movie-goers of all types with his social dystopian vision in Children of Men.
On this episode, we spend a bit of time with CuarÃn's small but impressive filmography. We also shake things up a little in a meager attempt to pack more into the show. And this is the first ever episode of WTD without a single 10 Quiz. Be sure to download the separate 10 Quiz episode for that.
(Next WTD: James Whale - Oct 30)
(Next Watching Theology: Children of Men - Oct 23)
Download "Take It Back" (mp3)
from "It's Yours To Keep"
by Loquat

WTD31b: The Cuaron Ten Quiz

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 16:58:00 GMT

Welcome to the first attempt at a new format for Watching The Directors. In an effort to give a bit more time to both the 10 Quizes and the rest of the show, this special 10 Quiz portion delves into Mr. CuarÃn's work with a bit more from the listener. Surprisingly, this guy with only six features gave a lot of us almost too much to talk about.
(Next WTD 10 Quiz: James Whale - Oct 30)

Next Edition

Wed, 3 Oct 2007 04:21:00 GMT

Delays...

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 23:48:00 GMT

Due to some unexpected schedule changes, we are pushing the Watching the Directors and Watching Theology schedules back a week. Have no fear, this is not a sign of things to come. We will resume normal bi-weekly shows starting, for WTD, on October 9, 2007 with Alfonso Cuaron and WT, on October 2, 2007 with Forbidden Planet. We appreciate your patience. Thanks for listening!

WTD30: John Hughes

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 15:46:00 GMT

In response to a short ballot of directors that "deserve a bit of respect," John Hughes came out as the listener choice. So here he is, in all of his pre-Beethoven glory. Considered by many to be the essential director of 1980's teen films, Hughes has also put together a compelling writing career. Besides directing The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off, he was the writer of other 80's classics like Vacation, Mr. Mom and Pretty in Pink.
Join us as we look at a sentimental favorite, browse through a few 10 quizes and review Hughes' first film, Sixteen Candles. (note: Joe's just pretending to be a sensitive elitist. He actually thinks Long Duk Dong is hilarious.)
(Next WTD: Alfonso CuarÃn - Oct 2)
(Next Watching Theology: Forbidden Planet - Sept 25)

Download "Revolution" (mp3)
from "Ultimate Alternative Wavers"
by Built To Spill

Next Edition

Tue, 4 Sep 2007 20:00:00 GMT

WTD29: Coen Brothers

Tue, 4 Sep 2007 13:29:00 GMT

Unlike pop music, filmmaking doesn't normally think in terms of duos. But somehow, Joel and Ethan Coen have combined their talents into a singular force, creating a unique voice in contemporary cinema. They have developed a filmography that includes surreal comedies like Raising Arizona, cinematic statements like Miller's Crossing and cult-like followings with The Big Lebowski. Combined with a breakthrough masterpiece with 1996's Fargo, the Coens have demonstrated a persistent style and quality that has made them favorites of both critics and popular audiences.
In this episode we take a look at the Coen's work, spending time with guys named "Ed the Barber", "H.I", and, of course, "The Dude". Along the way, we'll sample some 10 Quizes, talk essentials and try to make sense of a very interesting career.
(Next WTD: John Hughes - Sept 18)
(Next Watching Theology: Barton Fink - Sept 11)
Music from Chad Serhal at www.myspace.com/chadserhal

Next Edition

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 04:59:00 GMT

WTD28: Kevin Smith

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 04:50:00 GMT

Beyond Springsteen and Bon Jovi, New Jersey never gets the respect of the other "New" state. Woody Allen had the magic and majesty of Manhattan, but Kevin Smith opted for the grit and vulgarity of Red Bank. Rather than yielding to the shadow of Metropolis, Smith infused his hometown with John Hughes's mythical Shermer, Illinois. He built a troupe of characters with their own, profane atmosphere. He told simple stories about conversations and sentiment.
On this episode we look at Smith's breakthrough film Clerks and follow him through it's bookend, Clerks II. In between, angels almost destroy existence, Ben Affleck loses J-Lo and Star Wars shows its cultural power.
Besides an examination of Smith's career, we'll look into our letterbox, talk about a ton of Ten Quizes and reveal the listener pick for episode 30.
(Next WTD: Coen Brothers - Sept. 4)
(Next Watching Theology: Dogma - Aug 28)

Download "Robert Onion" (mp3)
from "93-03"
by Frank Black
Cooking Vinyl

Episode 30 Poll

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 02:29:00 GMT

There were a ton of nominees for our Episode 30 WTD - a show, we keep trying to define a bit: "Guilty Pleasure," "Show Some Respect," "Not as Bad as Critics Say," "Doesn't Anyone Else Love This Guy?", etc. Most of the write-ins were for accomplished directors like Soderbergh, Spike Lee and Kurosawa. A few people nominated some directors that might fit a bit better into the theme. So we removed the three directors with the least amount of votes and replaced them with the three most popular write-ins. Goodbye Martha Coolidge, Roland Emmerich and Garry Marshall. Hello Richard Donner, Irvin Kershner and George Miller. The final votes will be tallied on Saturday, August 18. The winner will be announced on WTD 28 - Kevin Smith.

Next Edition

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 04:25:00 GMT

WTD27: Barbara Kopple & Michael Moore

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 03:08:00 GMT

No one knows how to shake up a political season like Flint Michigan native, Michael Moore. Likewise, few people have done more to document the plight of organized labor and the politically unpopular than Barbara Kopple. They represent the progressive edge of documentary filmmaking. While Kopple has managed to remain behind the scenes, Moore has figured out a way to turn the documentary format into a celebrity-making device. Whether it's Kopple's landmark expose on life in a mining town, Harlan County USA, or Moore's attack on industry, Roger & Me, both have popularized and utilized the documentary for social change.
Not only do we throw out some Ten Quizes and the kind of insight you can only find on a free podcast, we also have our first-ever filmmaker interview. Matthew Porter, director and editor of the documentary, Hope Positive, joins us for a behind-the-scenes look at documentary making.
See HopePositive.com or 95-Theses.com for more from Mr. Porter.
(Next WTD: Kevin Smith - Aug 21)
(Next Watching Theology: Grizzly Man - Aug 14)
Music
Download "Wooden Home" (mp3)
from "The Rock Garden"
by Tom Langford
GoDigital Records

Pick Episode 30's director

Sat, 4 Aug 2007 16:57:00 GMT

Now's your chance to show a little love to the unloved. Through September 1st, we will be taking votes through the online poll (to the right). The winner will become the subject of episode 30, Sept 18th.

The poll is our best attempt to put out a list of directors that people watch but don't always respect. Since we do believe it's fine that not every director is a Hitchcock or Bergman - and since so many listeners have suggested opening up to "lower tier" directors - we're presenting this list.

Plus, after August 11th, we will look at the "other" nominations. The two highest "others" will replace the two lowest vote-getters. The poll will be reset (and "other" will be removed as an option). So come back and vote after that.

Voting closes Saturday, August 18th. The winner will be announced on WTD 28.

Remember, be kind to us.

Next Edition

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:57:00 GMT

WTD26: Stanley Kubrick

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:10:00 GMT

The first episode of season 2 is a marathon look at Stanley Kubrick, the revered mind behind Spartacus, Dr. Strangelove, 2001: A Space Odyssey and a few films that will make your skin crawl while you waltz. Joe and Melissa are joined by Duke, who was last heard on the Tarantino episode and now co-hosts the podcast Degree of Separation. Together, they attempt to discuss the essence of Kubrick, the work and mastery of one of cinema's most respected and enigmatic directors. Along the way, mail and 10 Quizes piled up and the show tries to answer that most asked of questions: "Does anyone like Eyes Wide Shut?"
(Next WTD: Barbara Kopple and Michael Moore - Aug 7)
(Next Watching Theology: 2001 - July 31)

Download "Bee Hive" (mp3)
from "Fantastic Hawk"
by Bottom of the Hudson
Absolutely Kosher

Next Edition

Fri, 6 Jul 2007 05:47:00 GMT

WTDSE04: Anniversary Show

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:27:00 GMT

A year ago, we were cramming Spielberg's entire career into a forty-five minute episode. The show's changed little-by-little, but we're still after the same thing: exploring the way that different directors approach their films. On this episode we consider the first season, talk a bit about season two and have the definitive conversation on Shyamalan's inflated Director Score. We also "re-watch" the two films listener's most often say we've missed. We put together the 10 Essential films from Season one, plus a bonus 10 Insider films. And we ramble through listener e-mail trying to get to the heart of whatever happened to "Hitchcock Episode 1".
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by Death Cab for Cutie and John Vanderslice (Podsafe Music Network)
(Next WTD: Stanley Kubrick - July 24)
(Next Watching Theology: Die Hard - July 3)

WTD25: Ingmar Bergman

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:05:00 GMT

If foreign films seem scary, and the idea of Swedish movies about God and relationships is absolutely terrifying, this is the edition you've been avoiding. But don't worry. Ingmar Bergman isn't that terrifying. On this episode we'll spend some time with a selection of his movies, covering all of The Criterion Collection's releases, spanning nearly thirty years of some landmark cinema. Join us as we offer our usual Ten Quizes and unbelievably deep insights. But we break the format a bit to offer an expanded - very expanded - 5-minute filmography. We'll talk about each of the movies we watched. There's probably one in there that you've been waiting all your life to see.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by Quit Your Day Job and
Elliot Smith
(Next WTD: Anniversary Show Special Edition - June 26)
(Next Watching Theology: The Virgin Spring - June 19)

WTD24: Rob Reiner

Tue, 29 May 2007 04:10:00 GMT

If "Goes to 11", "Inconceivable", "I'll have what she's having" and "You can't handle the truth" make you go into full movie trivia mode, you have Rob Reiner to thank. Since 1984, Reiner has been creating the most memorable non-Jedi scenes and characters in popular movies. From the landmark "mockumentary" This is Spinal Tap to the single chief executive in The American President, his films combine personal growth with humor and romance. He also managed to turn a dead body and Kathy Bates' hammer swing into surprisingly human interpretations of Stephen King's work. Join us as we look at Reiner's work, play with some 10 Quizes and consider whether the man who gave us the Dread Pirate Roberts still has something left.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by Montoya (Podsafe Music Network)
(Next WTD: Ingmar Bergman - June 12)
(Next Watching Theology: The Princess Bride - June 5)

WTD23: Curtis Hanson

Tue, 15 May 2007 13:27:00 GMT

Curtis Hanson created this generation's Purple Rain (8 Mile). He also spent a solid decade turning Hitchcock suspense formula films into a career path. But in 1997, Hanson stumbled across - or engineered - a change in direction with a classic modern film noir, the critically and popularly adored L.A. Confidential. His subsequent films have been small character studies, more concerned with finding home than homicides. On this episode of WTD, we look at Hanson's last twenty years, including our 10 Quizes and a review of the theatrical release, Lucky You.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by Lee Coulter (Podsafe Music Network)
(Next show: Rob Reiner - May 29)

WTD22: Alfred Hitchcock (part 3)

Tue, 1 May 2007 13:04:00 GMT

If you love Hitchcock, but you're afraid of Norman Bates, download this show. On this episode, WTD covers the years 1948-1976, looking exclusively at the color films. Join us as we look at the highest and lowest points of a legendary career, complete with coverage of the classics (North By Northwest, Vertigo) and the lesser works (Torn Curtain, Family Plot) with glances in between. Of course we'll feature our 10 Quizes, a 5-minute filmography and a review by Melissa. (Note: concerning the "part 3" in the title. So far we have only published "part 2" on WTD 11. "Part 1" - covering the British era remains to be scheduled.)
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by Beirut (courtesy of Ba Da Bing Records)
(Next show: Curtis Hanson - May 16)

Watching Theology: a new podcast

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:46:00 GMT

From the creators of Watching the Directors comes a new podcast that is bound to be of interest to at least one or two people.... On those off weeks, when you really want to destroy your favorite films by talking about the theological and philosophical content, we provide you with the ultimate solution: Watching Theology. In this show, Joe and Melissa look at the theological, philosophical and thematic content of a single film, often from a director covered on Watching the Directors.

If you're interested, hop on over to watchingtheology.com and download our first edition, a brief (under 30 minutes is brief for us) examination of Tarantino's masterpiece, Pulp Fiction.

We now resume regular podcasting.

WTD21: Quentin Tarantino

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 13:24:00 GMT

WTD invites its first ever guest host to face the vulgar, visceral, violent and verbal world of Quentin Tarantino. Join us as we look at the career of America's most celebrated and self-promoted director of the last twenty years. Together, we'll tackle a stack of guest 10-Quizes, discuss the Tarantino style and mystique, spend too much time recounting scenes and see if anyone will give Jackie Brown some love. Plus we feature a review of Tarantino's newest film, Death Proof, from the Grindhouse double-feature. Download this show - don't be a [].
Links:
Elvis Mitchell's The Treatment interview with QT.
Article: "Redemption and Spiritual Transformation in Kill Bill"
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by The Delstars (Podsafe Music Network)
(Next show: Hitchcock - 1948-76 color films - May 1)

WTD20: Ridley Scott

Thu, 5 Apr 2007 08:25:00 GMT

We didn't really talk about the Kubrick connection. We barely mentioned the career in commercials or the relationship to brother Tony. So what did we discuss? Listen to this episode as we explore the varied and fascinating career of Ridley Scott. Over the course of the last thirty years, the elder Scott has created some of film's most famous science fiction and action. Join us for our 10-Quizes, the (slightly-more-than) 5 Minute Filmography and a lot of talk about whether or not Gladiator is the greatest film ever, or even of Scott's career.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by Cul De Sac (courtesy of Strange Attractors Audio House)
(Next show: Quentin Tarantino - April 10)

More delays

Tue, 3 Apr 2007 20:10:00 GMT

Believe it or not, we are VERY excited about Ridley Scott. Due to some unfortunate scheduling conflicts and Melissa recently loosing her voice...we are delaying episode 20. Fear not, we hope to have the episode posted in a few days and it will not effect our regular schedule. We've gotten some great 10 quizes and now there is still time to get yours in!

WTDSE03: Wes Anderson

Tue, 20 Mar 2007 04:30:00 GMT

We've waited. We really have. But Wes Anderson hasn't given us enough material for a regular show - hence, this special edition. On this episode of WTD, we look at the four features from that unlikely Texan. Join us as we talk about estranged fathers and sons, symmetry and red speedos. Beginning with Anderson's short Bottle Rocket up to The Life Aquatic... we will do our best to give a quick overview of his all-to-brief career.
Plus, we dedicate ten good minutes at the end of the show to listener response about The Game. Were we wrong in saying it undermined the film? (Of course we don't think so).
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Music by Elliott Smith from archive.org
(Next show: Ridley Scott - April 3)

Ridley Scott delay

Fri, 9 Mar 2007 18:16:00 GMT

Due to some scheduling issues, which will make it a bit difficult to put together our Ridley Scott show on time, we're postponing it for two weeks. Scott will move to April 3, Tarantino stays on April 17 and Hitchcock gets moved all the way to May 1. But it's not like we're taking a break. In Scott's place, we will be posting a special edition (no re-runs, we promise) covering a young director who wouldn't qualify to have his own show - not unlike the Mel Gibson special edition. We will also talk a bit about the surprisingly hot topic of David Fincher's ending(s) in The Game, plus review our letterbox.

WTD19: David Fincher

Sun, 4 Mar 2007 05:10:00 GMT

Looking back at Rick Springfield's 'Dance This World Away' music video, it might be hard to believe that its director, David Fincher, would eventually be known for serial murderers, disturbing violence and a technical prowess that has become legendary. Through atmospheric crime thrillers like Se7en and the cutting edge adaptation of Chuck Pahlahniuk's Fight Club, Fincher has built a career on shattering theatrical expectations, beginning murmurs of master status. On this edition of WTD, we look at the career of the new master, complete with our 10 Quiz (and several guest quizzes), 5 Minute Filmography and a review of his new release, Zodiac.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by The Eisenhowers (at www.myspace.com/eisenhowers)
Also, check out the Hollywood Saloon's in-depth overview of Fincher's film career (at www.hollywoodsaloon.com).
(Next show: Ridley Scott - Mar 20)

Oscar Results

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 19:08:00 GMT

Congratulations to Martin Scorsese who's film "The Departed" won for directing, writing, and took home the best film of the year award at this years Oscar festivities!

WTD 18: Mel Brooks

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 11:45:00 GMT

Comedy is hard work - just ask Mel Brooks. In his career, he's managed to place 3 films on the AFI top 100 list, while turning flatulence into an art form. On this episode, we spend some time with a name that's become synonymous with parody and slapstick. Join us as we run Mr. Brooks's films through our Ten Quiz, discuss his essential works and review his homage to Hitchcock.
(Correction: when discussing "Best Picture" Joe continually referred to Gene Wilder rather than Gene Hackman. It makes more sense to say, "...and if you missed Gene HACKMAN....")
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by The Eisenhowers, courtesy of the Podsafe Music Network
(Next show: David Fincher - Mar 6)

WTD 17: Howard Hawks (1938-59)

watchingthedirectors@yahoo.com — Tue, 6 Feb 2007 00:09:00 GMT

Perhaps there never was a time when "men were men..." but there was a place. In this episode of WTD, we turn the focus onto one of the legendary names of the Hollywood picture. Howard Hawks perfected the screwball comedy, made Marilyn glow, gave John Wayne machismo and still had time for Bogart and Bacall. Join us for a 10 Quiz, the letterbox, a look at Hawks's essential films. Plus, we shake things up a bit and include the 5 Minute Filmography, a new section we introduced in episode 16. (Note: this show runs a bit long - 1:18. Just imagine if we tried to cover his whole career). Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com) Additional music by Faris Nourallah, courtesy of Western Vinyl and the IODA Alliance. Download "A Famous Life" (mp3)
from "I Love Faris"
by Faris Nourallah
Western Vinyl

(Next show: Mel Brooks - Feb. 20)

WTD16: Robert Zemeckis

Tue, 23 Jan 2007 06:06:00 GMT

From middle-class Chicago to the time-honored halls of USC, Robert Zemeckis is a truly American filmmaker. Together, with Steven Spielberg, he helped reinforce a blend of nostalgia and optimism that can be traced back to Frank Capra. On this episode, we'll see if there's more to Zemeckis than his similarity to other directors. We'll consider a solid array of landmark popular films ranging from Romancing the Stone to The Polar Express (and especially those inbetween - i.e. Back to the Future and Forrest Gump). Download this show immediately for a solid conversation, the soon-to-be famous 10 Quiz, listener feedback and a review. It's almost too much for one hour.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Additional music by Once For Kicks, courtesy of Book Records and the IODA Alliance.
(Next show: Howard Hawks - Feb. 6)

Schedule Change - Fincher

Sun, 7 Jan 2007 20:22:00 GMT

For those of you eagerly waiting the Fincher show, we have to announce a rescheduling. We had planned that show to coincide with the release of Zodiac. Unfortunately, the wide release date of that movie has been moved back to March. So, we postpone Fincher, move up Zemeckis and Brooks. All good.

WTD15: George Lucas

Fri, 5 Jan 2007 15:56:00 GMT

If you can't remember a time before jedis, thank a director named George Lucas and an empire called Star Wars. On this early edition of WTD, we'll take Lucas seriously - the way most people did in the 1970's. We'll explore the two periods of his career and keep our Jar-Jar rhetoric to a minimum. We will also talk about two landmark films that are often lost beneath the shadow of the Star Wars mythology. And, if you're lucky, there may be a 10 Quiz, some film excerpts, a review and a comedy bit (that we didn't write). Plus, our letterbox still beckons and we share our first phone message.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
"Half as Cool as Han Solo" by Dan Beahm and the Invisible Three (at danbeahm.com)
"Jedi Drinking Test" by the Dust Rhinos (at dustrhinos.com)
And comedy, courtesy of Steve Brown Etc. (at stevebrownetc.com)
(Next show: David Fincher - January 23)

Posting issues

Wed, 3 Jan 2007 18:05:00 GMT

Greetings all. In case you've been trying to post comments and have been kicked out, you're not alone. We're not sure why this is happening, but we are working on it. In the meantime, we've removed our access filter (that scrambled letter thing at the end of a comment post). Hopefully, this helps for now. Thanks for your patience. (The management)

WTDSE02: Directors To Watch

Mon, 25 Dec 2006 16:20:00 GMT

If we ever become a movie studio, we have a whole list of filmmakers we'd attempt to corrupt with our money and marketing. On this episode of WTD, we look at a select group of six directors that excite us and make us think the future of the film industry is in pretty good hands. There are some you've heard of like Coppola and Gaghan, a few that sound familiar, like Jason Reitman, Richard Kelly and Niki Caro. Then there's that obscure filmmaker Richard Dutcher, who is popular in the American west but unknown to most video stores.
Come along on a (slightly longer) ride as we talk about this select group and what makes us think they're worth talking about. We won't have the Ten Quiz or our normal features, but we will have plenty to discuss.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Other music by Sufjan Stevens (at asthmatickitty.com)
(Next show: George Lucas - January 9)

WTDSE01: Mel Gibson

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 14:14:00 GMT

Over thirteen years, Mel Gibson has only directed four movies - something that makes him ineligible for a normal WTD show. But two of those films were landmarks. Braveheart won the Best Picture and Best Director OscarÂ in 1995. The Passion of the Christ created both controversy and an unbelievable popularity for an independent film. For those reasons, and because we really wanted to watch and talk about Apocalypto, we've thrown in a bonus program about a surprisingly important director. Join us as we do all our reviews in Latin, Assyrian and a lost Tibetan dialect.
(Next show: Directors to Watch - December 26)

WTD14: Edward Zwick

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 04:24:00 GMT

"Edward who?" you may ask. Edward Zwick, of course. He's the guy who just released the under-performing Blood Diamond and some other films you may have seen. Does The Last Samurai sound familiar? How about a little Civil War drama called Glory? Well, if you still have questions, listen to this episode as we discuss Zwick, a television mentality, and that famous rice liquor, sake. Plus, we'll still have our Ten Quiz.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Other music by Epic Hero (at orangebetty.com)
(Next show: Directors to watch - December 26)

WTD13: Tony Scott

Mon, 4 Dec 2006 06:42:00 GMT

He may have never directed a Die Hard movie, but Tony Scott knows a few things about the action genre. From the "maverick" rebel saving the Navy (Top Gun) to the hero saving the Navy from a maverick (Crimsom Tide) to the ATF agent saving New Orleans (Deja Vu), Scott knows masculine drama. Download this podcast immediately as we discuss Scott's work, rip on the unfortunate Domino and say too much about Val Kilmer.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Other music by The Coast (at www.thecoastmusic.com)
(Next show: Edward Zwick - December 12)

Episode 13 Update

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 03:43:00 GMT

As you may have noticed we have not published Episode 13 on Tony Scott. Due to our recent relocation we are delaying the show just a few days. Stay tuned for more information. We will have the show up as soon as possible. Thanks for listening.

WTD12: Reitman/Landis

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 14:25:00 GMT

On a special 2-for-the-price-of-1 edition, Watching The Directors looks at the rise (and fall) of Ivan Reitman and John Landis. With intersections like Animal House and remarkably similar stories, these two directors were responsible for some of the greatest comedies of the 1980's - and some of the most avoidable films of the last 10 years. Join us as we consider the shelf life of comedic films and comedy directors. We promise to have a Ten Quiz, a look at essential films and attempt to answer the question: "What happened?".
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Other music by Gentlemen Losers (at GentlemenLosers.com)
(Next show: Tony Scott - November 28)

WTD11: Alfred Hitchcock (part 2)

Wed, 1 Nov 2006 16:40:00 GMT

Despite illness, technical difficulties and the spectre of Halloween, we're only a day late. To make up for it, we offer another marathon edition on one of the truly great directors of cinema history. Join us for a perusal at the period between 1940 and 1960, when Alfred Hitchcock worked in America and in glorious black and white. We'll look at suspense classics like Psycho and Strangers On A Train and consider "Hitch's" twisted view of women in those films and the masterpiece Notorious. Also, we give you the ever-exciting Ten Quiz, look at a little letter box and ramble on about Freud.
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Other music by Kevin Reeves (at www.kevinreeves.net)
(Next show: Ivan Reitman - November 14)

WTD10a: Martin Scorsese

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 16:59:00 GMT

Considered by many to be America's essential working director, Martin Scorsese has created an impressive array of violent, psychological, meticulously shot films. In this episode we look back at the last thirty years of his remarkable career. Beginning with Taxi Driver and concluding with a review of the in-theaters crime drama The Departed, we add our two cents to this filmmaker's legend. Join us as we give a little insight into his origins, essential works, a Ten Quiz or two, a bit of audio, the letterbox and a bunch of rambling that is sure to expose us as complete frauds. (Note: due to the length of this recording, we processed it at a slightly lower quality - sorry.)
Also, note that we are featuring a special supplemental recording to discuss The Departed for those of you who have seen the film (which can be found on the website).
Theme by Deerfoot (at ilovedeerfoot.com)
Other music by On Tracy Lane (www.ontracylane.com)
(Next show: Alfred Hitchcock Part 2 â October 31)

WTD10b: Scorsese-The Departed EXTRA

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 16:28:00 GMT

This is a special supplement to Episode 10. On this short recording we talk to those of you who have seen The Departed. Yes, this particular episode contains tons of SPOILERS, so don't listen if you haven't seen the movie. If you have, then listen and see how truly ignorant we are of Scorsese's genius.