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PODCAST

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast

Paul James and Josh Knapp

This is a film podcast by two people that come at movies from different angles. Paul is a trained actor and Josh is a broadcast engineer. They have lively conversations about all aspects of old and new films: technical, emotional, acting, directing, writing, music, special effects, and more. Check out the website at www.actorandengineer.com and email actorandengineer@gmail.com.

tv & film performing arts

All Episodes

01:11:12

Ep 404 - Frankenstein

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/11/23

In this episode we delve into Guillermo del Toro's latest work, Frankenstein. We discuss our overall impressions and highlights. Key points include critiques of the film's pacing and character development, the standout skills of the actors, and an examination of del Toro's unique storytelling style.

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01:00:32

Ep 403 - Bugonia

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/11/13

In this episode we delve into the latest film by Yorgos Lanthimos, 'Bogonia.' We discuss the film's intricate themes, complex characters, and unique narrative style. We also exploring the themes of hope, agency, and societal critique. The hosts debate the effectiveness of the film's ending and its impact on the audience.

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01:25:53

Ep 402 - One Battle After Another

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/10/28

In this episode we dive into the latest Paul Thomas Anderson movie. We explore the film's intricate layers, masterful performances, and unparalleled storytelling. We break down the film's standout scenes, including its tension-filled chase sequence and the complex interplay of its characters. We get into the captivating performances by Sean Penn and Chase Infinity and have a few Oscar predictions.

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01:04:44

Ep 401 - Weapons

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/09/25

This week we start with Paul recounting his recent performance in a play up in Virginia, sharing his thoughts on the experience and the audience's reception. We also touch on the emotional and technical challenges faced during his performance. Then we get into the film 'Weapons,' directed by Zach Cregger. We discuss the film’s characters, notable scenes, and the overarching themes, touching on its horror elements and the director’s unique storytelling approach.

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01:05:50

Ep 400 - Top 4 Performances and Tech Achievements

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/08/31

Welcome to the 400th episode of The Actor and the Engineer! Paul shares his top four acting performances seen during the podcast's run, discussing the tremendous talent showcased in movies like 'If Beale Street Could Talk' and 'Birdman.' Meanwhile, Josh delves into advancements like digital film projection, drone usage, the ARRI Alexa cameras, and the revolutionary use of virtual sets. Join us for a dynamic and heartfelt discussion as we honor filmmaking and reflect on our podcast journey.

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01:14:02

Ep 399 - Eddington

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/07/30

In this episode we kick off with Paul announcing his new play, 'The Lifespan of a Fact'. Then we have an in-depth analysis of the film ‘Eddington', directed by Ari Aster. We explore various plot points, character motivations, social media's impact, and the film's complex themes.

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01:01:57

Ep 398 - Superman

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/07/22

In this episode we delve into the latest DC film, Superman, directed by James Gunn. They discuss their excitement for Gunn's take on the DC Universe, our impressions of the cast and the film's overall tone and stylistic choices. We also touch on various plot elements, special effects, and how the movie fares against the backdrop of other superhero films.

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50:29

Ep 397 - Breathless

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/07/09

In this episode we dive into Jean-Luc Godard's influential 1960 film, Breathless. We discuss Godard's journey from critic to filmmaker, the unique production techniques that shaped the film, and the impact of its groundbreaking style, including the use of jump cuts and overdubbing.

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47:07

Ep 396 - Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/06/16

Join us as we get into ‘Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning.' We analyze the movie's storyline, character development, and overall execution. We compare it to 'Dead Reckoning' and other Mission Impossible films, touching on our thoughts about the movie's pacing, action sequences, and emotional impact. Don't miss our exploration of the film's highs, lows, and everything in between!

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59:39

Ep 395 - Thunderbolts*

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/05/30

Join us as we dive into Marvel's Thunderbolts*. We discuss the depth and complexities of the characters, the overarching themes of mental health and familial bonds, and how the movie stands out in the vast Marvel Cinematic Universe. From reflections on performances to the significance of character development, we cover how Thunderbolts shows us a little more than the last few MCU movies.

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57:49

Ep 394 - Sinners

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/05/14

In this episode we delve into Ryan Coogler's new vampire film, Sinners. We explore Coogler's departure from conventional storytelling, discuss the film's allegory on art and commerce, and dissect the intricate performances, especially highlighting Michael B. Jordan's dual role and Delroy Lindo's masterful acting. We also debate the necessity of the film's multiple endings and reflect on the genre elements that make this film a remarkable piece.

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53:01

Ep 393 - Warfare

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/05/05

In this episode we discuss the latest film by Alex Garland, which is co-directed and co-written with retired Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza. The movie recounts real events from Ramadi, Iraq, in 2006. We delve into its character development and its portrayal of military operations. We get into the emotional intensity of the storytelling and why this may not be a “war film”.

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54:10

Ep 392 - Black Bag

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/04/16

In this episode we dive deep into Steven Soderbergh’s latest project 'Black Bag.' The conversation extends to the storytelling prowess of screenwriter David Koepp, the complexities of character development, and the nuances of the film's cinematography and editing. We also touch on other upcoming movies from directors like Paul Thomas Anderson and Spike Lee, and examine performances by Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett. 00:00 Introduction and Excitement for Upcoming Movies 03:50 Character

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01:00:04

Ep 391 - Top 5 of 2024

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/03/28

Join us for a special episode of Actor and the Engineer where we break down our top 5 films of the year! From directing debuts to unexpected thrillers, and Oscar-worthy performances, we cover it all.

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01:08:33

Ep 390 - Oscarcast 2025

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/03/01

In this episode we discuss our picks for the major Oscar categories such as Adapted Screenplay, Original Screenplay, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Picture. We debate potential winners, personal favorites, and possible surprises, analyzing performances from movies like ‘Anora', 'The Brutalist', 'A Complete Unknown', and more.

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59:38

Ep 389 - The Seed of the Sacred Fig

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/02/25

In this episode we discuss the Iranian film 'Seed of the Sacred Fig.' Recommended by frequent guest Justin Arner, this movie intrigued us with its compelling story, We delve into the film's production, which was conducted in secret due to its critical stance against the Iranian government. The conversation also covers the complexities of the characters, particularly the family dynamics and the cultural constraints depicted in the film.

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58:47

Ep 388 - Nickel Boys

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/02/15

In this episode we delve into an in-depth discussion about Nickel Boys, directed and co-written by RaMell Ross. We explore the film’s narrative style, and the powerful storytelling derived from its poignant backdrop. We also discuss the technical aspects of filming, and the thematic depth portrayed by the actors, particularly Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor. We get into speculations about the film's Oscar nominations and the impact of its crucial scenes.

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01:02:46

Ep 387 - The Brutalist

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/02/04

In this episode we explore Brady Corbet's film 'The Brutalist.' The film centers around an architect from Budapest who survives a concentration camp and moves to the United States to rebuild his life. They discuss their impressions, emotional reactions, and the film's intricate details. They also touch on the performances by the cast, including Adrian Brody, Felicity Jones, and Guy Pearce, and examine the film's unique visual and narrative style. 00:00 Introduction and Movie Overview 00:54 Initial

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52:45

Ep 386 - A Complete Unknown

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/01/18

In this episode we dive deep into the Bob Dylan biopic, analyzing the film's approach to the music icon's life. We reflect on the unique narrative style, the performances, and the direction by James Mangold. We also explore how the film's portrayal of Dylan's music and persona may introduce new fans to the legendary artist's work.

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53:12

Ep 385 - Nosferatu

The Actor and The Engineer Podcast ·

2025/01/13

In this episode we dive into Robert Eggers' contemporary take on the classic Dracula tale, Nosferatu. We discuss the film's homage to the 1922 F.W. Murnau film, its modern cinematic techniques, and the chilling performances by Lily Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, and Bill Skarsgård. Paul also shares his recent trip to Prague, where the movie was filmed, adding a personal touch with anecdotes about the city's Christmas markets and his own unsettling dreams. Tune in for a deep analysis of the film's

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412 results

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