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PODCAST

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast

If you’re looking for the best movie podcast for everyone who appreciates movies, subscribe to “Houselights” today!Each week, hosts Darren Moser, John Mills, and Tristan Riddell share what they see as a movie director’s signature approach and how it shaped the movies you love. Join them as they unpack the works of some of the most prominent directors - and the lost works of the most masterful auteurs.Weekly episodes comprise series featuring works of different directors approached in unexpected

tv & film film reviews

All Episodes

53:00

255 - K-19: The Widowmaker

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/11/27

In this episode of Houselights, we navigate through Kathryn Bigelow's "K-19: The Widowmaker," focusing on its technical brilliance and narrative challenges. We discuss the film's claustrophobic cinematography, the nuanced performances of Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson, and the historical context that frames this gripping submarine drama. While the film excels in its technical execution, the emotional connection with the characters remains elusive, leaving us with a complex yet compelling cinematic

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62:34

House of Bigelow - 254 - Strange Days

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/11/20

Wire into the dystopian world of Kathryn Bigelow's "Strange Days" with our latest review. We explore the film's ambitious narrative, technical wizardry, and its reflection of 90s societal angst. From groundbreaking POV shots to its complex themes, this episode unpacks why "Strange Days" remains a compelling watch.

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55:48

House of Bigelow - 253 - Point Break

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/11/14

Join Houselights as we explore "Point Break," Kathryn Bigelow's 90s cult classic that blends extreme sports with high-stakes heists. With Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze leading the charge, this film is a thrilling ride of surfing, skydiving, and philosophical musings on freedom. Discover why this action-packed spectacle remains a beloved piece of pop culture.

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45:58

House of Bigelow - 251 - Near Dark

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/10/30

In this episode of Houselights, we explore Kathryn Bigelow's "Near Dark." Join hosts John, Darren, and Tristan as they delve into the film's unique blend of vampire, western, and punk rock genres, discuss the performances of its ensemble cast, and examine its cult status and technical execution. Discover how "Near Dark" set the stage for Bigelow's illustrious career and why it remains a fascinating piece of 80s cinema.

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59:06

House of Zemeckis - 249 - Cast Away

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/10/16

In this episode of Houselights, we explore Robert Zemeckis' "Cast Away." Join hosts John, Darren, and Tristan as they discuss Tom Hanks' remarkable portrayal of Chuck Noland, the film's innovative use of sound and visual design, and its cultural impact.

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55:45

House of Zemeckis - 248 - Contact

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/10/09

Join us on Houselights as we dive into the sci-fi wonder of Robert Zemeckis's 1997 film, "Contact." With a story by Carl Sagan, this episode explores the film's ambitious themes of faith, science, and politics, featuring a stellar cast including Jodie Foster and Matthew McConaughey. We discuss the film's technical achievements, its place in Zemeckis's filmography, and the dualities present in its narrative. Tune in for a thoughtful analysis and a nostalgic look back at a 90s classic.

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54:10

House of Zemeckis - 245 - Back to the Future Part III

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/09/18

In this episode of Houselights, we journey back to the Old West with "Back to the Future Part 3." Join hosts Tristan, Darren, and John as they explore the film's unique charm and its pivotal role in concluding the iconic trilogy. From the genre shift to the unforgettable train sequence, we delve into how this installment stands out while tying together the beloved series. Discover why this film remains a fan favorite and how it solidifies Robert Zemeckis's legacy in the 1990s.

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54:29

House of Fuqua - 244 - The Equalizer

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/09/11

In our final entry our the Antoine Fuqua retrospective, "The Equalizer," we break down the film's key scenes and discuss its impact on the action genre. Tune in as we explore the film's narrative, character development, and Fuqua's directorial choices.

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55:05

House of Fuqua - 243 - Training Day

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/09/04

In our second look at Antoine Fuqua's work, we explore the gritty world of "Training Day," the film that redefined cop dramas. Join us as we discuss Denzel Washington's Oscar-winning role, Ethan Hawke's overlooked performance, and the film's exploration of corruption, morality, and the Faustian bargains that define its characters. Discover why this cultural touchstone continues to resonate and hear our thoughts on its unforgettable scenes and legacy.

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43:27

House of Fuqua - 242 - The Replacement Killers

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/08/28

Explore Antoine Fuqua's directorial debut, "The Replacement Killers," as we discuss its homage to Hong Kong action cinema, the star-studded cast, and the challenges Fuqua faced as a first-time director. With insights into the film's nostalgic 90s vibe and its place in Fuqua's evolving career, this discussion is a must-listen for action movie enthusiasts and film buffs alike.

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51:31

House of Jonze - 240 - Where the Wild Things Are

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/08/14

Spike Jonze’s 2009 film Where the Wild Things Are is an ambitious adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s classic children’s book, but despite its stunning visuals and unique atmosphere, it struggles to capture the warmth and timeless charm of the original story. Billed as a family movie, this fantasy-drama often feels more like an indie art film, leaving many viewers, especially younger audiences, confused, restless, or disappointed.

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51:50

House of Jonze - 239 - Adaptation

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/08/07

In this episode, we take a closer look at Spike Jonze’s Adaptation, exploring its unique narrative structure and the standout performances by Nicolas Cage, Chris Coooper, and Meryl Streep. We delve into the film's themes of creativity and identity, offering insights that both fans and newcomers will appreciate. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about this intriguing film and what makes it a significant work in contemporary cinema.

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59:25

House of Jonze - 238 - Being John Malkovich

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/07/25

Start our Spike Jonze retrospective with "Being John Malkovich"! Discover how this 1999 classic challenges identity & reality through Jonze's unique vision.

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70:03

Wing of Ghostface - 237 - Scream VI

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/07/10

For longtime fans, Scream VI is a satisfying, blood-soaked entry that balances legacy and reinvention. It’s not perfect, but it’s bold, entertaining, and proves that Ghostface still has plenty of life—and knives—left.

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55:56

House of Craven - 235 - Scream 4

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/06/26

"Scream 4" is a commendable addition to the franchise that successfully balances nostalgia with a modern twist. It captures the essence of what made the original films so beloved while addressing contemporary issues within the horror genre. Although it may not reach the heights of the original "Scream," it offers enough thrills, humor, and social commentary to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The film stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the "Scream" series and its ability

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51:06

House of Craven - 234 - Scream 3

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/06/19

While this installment attempts to capture the magic of its predecessors, it often feels like a shadow of what once was. We’ll explore the film's self-referential humor, uneven pacing, and the challenges of continuing a beloved franchise. With a mix of nostalgia and critique, we’ll discuss how "Scream 3" fits into Craven's legacy and whether it manages to deliver the thrills fans expect.

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58:15

House of Craven - 233 - Scream 2

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/06/13

Scream 2 is an excellent follow-up. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but understands the assignment. If you liked the first one, there’s a lot here to enjoy—familiar faces, fresh kills, and a continued sense that horror can be scary and smart without taking itself too seriously.

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52:13

House of Craven - 231 - New Nightmare

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/05/29

While New Nightmare has its moments of creativity and strong performances, it ultimately falls short of delivering the thrills and chills that fans expect from a Nightmare on Elm Street film. It’s a thought-provoking entry in the franchise, but one that lacks the cohesive storytelling and visceral scares that made the original films classics. For die-hard fans of the series, it may be worth a watch, but for those seeking a truly terrifying experience, it may leave you wanting more.

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60:22

House of Craven - 230 - Nightmare on Elm Street

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/05/23

There’s no denying Nightmare’s place in horror history. It birthed a legend, introduced a terrifying concept, and proved that low-budget horror could be wildly imaginative. But as a film, it’s best appreciated with caveats. It’s not airtight. It’s not consistently scary. But it is audacious, and sometimes that’s enough to earn a nightmare or two.

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53:48

Wing of Predator - 228 - The Predator

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast ·

2025/05/08

"The Predator" (2018) attempts to breathe new life into the iconic franchise with a mix of action, humor, and sci-fi elements. However, the film struggles with a convoluted plot that juggles multiple storylines, leading to moments of confusion. While "The Predator" offers some entertaining moments and nostalgic nods to its predecessors, it ultimately leaves viewers divided on its effectiveness as a continuation of the franchise.

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235 results

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