Shows / Houselights: A Film Director 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…
Episodes
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastStar Trek: Nemesis (2002) - Stuart Baird | Houselights #179
Director Stuart Baird attempts to navigate the complex waters of Star Trek lore, bringing a darker tone to the franchise. The thematic exploration of identity…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastUS Marshals (1998) - Stuart Baird | Houselights #178
“U.S. Marshals” may not surpass its predecessor, but it still offers solid entertainment, especially for fans of action thrillers. While it lacks Harrison…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastExecutive Decision (1996) - Stuart Baird | Houselights #177
Stuart Baird's "Executive Decision" may have its quirks, but it's an adrenaline-fueled thriller that keeps viewers hooked from takeoff to landing. Baird's…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastBarbie (2023) - Greta Gerwig | Houselights #176
With its heartfelt message of self-acceptance and dazzling visuals, Barbie is sure to capture the hearts of audiences of all ages. Greta Gerwig has once again…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastLittle Women (2019) - Greta Gerwig | Houselights #175
Greta Gerwig's "Little Women": A cinematic marvel that delicately stitches together the threads of sisterhood, ambition, and love. Gerwig's adaptation dances…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastLady Bird (2017) - Greta Gerwig | Houselights #174
Gerwig’s semi-autobiographical script captures the essence of adolescence—the yearning for independence, the clash with parental expectations, and the search…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastPawn Sacrifice (2014) - Edward Zwick | Houselights #173
Pawn Sacrifice raises questions about obsession, genius, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of excellence. Whether you’re a chess enthusiast or a curious…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Last Samurai (2003) - Edward Zwick | Houselights #172
Set against the backdrop of Japan’s Meiji Restoration, the film follows the journey of Captain Nathan Algren (played brilliantly by Tom Cruise), a…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Siege (1998) - Edward Zwick | Houselights #171
“The Siege” goes beyond mere action-thriller territory. It delves into the political and human costs of terrorism and our collective response to it. The film…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastGlory (1989) - Edward Zwick | Houselights #170
“Glory”, directed by Edward Zwick, is a powerful and poignant historical war drama that chronicles the remarkable story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastUnstoppable (2010) - Tony Scott | Houselights #169
Tony Scott was a master of kinetic cinema. His need-for-speed tendency permeates every frame of “Unstoppable”. Even in his final film, Scott’s craftsmanship…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastDéjà Vu (2006) - Tony Scott | Houselights #168
Déjà Vu is a rollercoaster of suspense, romance, and time-bending intrigue. If you’re up for a mind-bending ride, buckle in and prepare for déjà vu like never…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastMan on Fire (2004) - Tony Scott | Houselights #167
Tony Scott’s vision transformed a familiar revenge tale into a visceral experience. The film’s stylized visuals, pulsating soundtrack by Harry…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastCrimson Tide (1995) - Tony Scott | Houselights #166
Roger Ebert praised the movie for its intelligent dramatization of the choices, dangers, and duties of nuclear warfare. The movie’s screenplay is credited to…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastTrue Romance (1993) - Tony Scott | Houselights #165
Tony Scott's "True Romance" is a wild and unpredictable ride through the underbelly of crime and passion, delivering a unique blend of violence, humor, and…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Last Boy Scout (1991) - Tony Scott | Houselights #164
"The Last Boy Scout" is a movie that has its moments but ultimately falls short of its potential due to its formulaic plot, one-dimensional characters, and…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastBeverly Hills Cop II (1987) - Tony Scott | Houselights #163
"Beverly Hills Cop II" is a mixed bag of nostalgia and action, with Eddie Murphy's charm and Tony Scott's directorial finesse elevating the viewing experience…
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Houselights: A Film Director PodcastGravity (2013) - Alfonso Cuarón | Houselights #162
Alfonso Cuarón's meticulous attention to detail is evident from the film's opening moments, where viewers are thrust into the vastness of space alongside…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastChrildren of Men (2006) - Alfonso Cuarón | Houselights #161
Through his use of long takes, commitment to authenticity, and focus on character-driven narratives, Alfonso Cuarón elevates "Children of Men" from a dystopian…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastPrisoner of Azkaban (2004) - Alfonso Cuarón | Houselights #160
"Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" stands out not only as a fantastic installment in the wizarding saga but also as a testament to Alfonso Cuarón's…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastGreat Expectations (1998) - Alfonso Cuarón | Houselights #159
Alfonso Cuarón's "Great Expectations" triumphs on multiple fronts – visually arresting, emotionally engaging, and a faithful adaptation of Dickens' literary…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastA Little Princess (1995) - Alfonso Cuarón | Houselights #158
Alfonso Cuarón's "A Little Princess" is a visual delight with emotional resonance, but it's not without its share of drawbacks. The film's acting and…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastWendell and Wild (2022) - Henry Selick | Houselights #157
Wendell and Wild" feels like a missed opportunity for the talented individuals involved. With a weak storyline, uninspiring animation, and a lack of the wit…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastCoraline (2009) - Henry Selick | Houselights #156
"Coraline" is a film that defies easy categorization. It straddles the line between family-friendly fantasy and spine-tingling horror, making it a unique and…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastJames and the Giant Peach (1996) - Henry Selick | Houselights #155
"James and the Giant Peach" is a visually stunning and imaginative adaptation that captures the essence of Roald Dahl's world. Despite its pacing…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - Henry Selick | Houselights #154
Henry Selick's direction of "The Nightmare Before Christmas" is nothing short of a triumph in the world of animation and storytelling. His meticulous…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastKing Arthur: Legend of the Sword (2017) - Guy Ritchie | Houselights #153: Wing of King Arthur
"King Arthur: Legend of the Sword" was undeniably a bold and visually striking reimagining of the Arthurian legend. Ritchie's attempt to infuse his signature…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastKing Arthur (2004) - Antoine Fuqua | Houselights #152: Wing of King Arthur
"King Arthur" (2005) offers a unique take on the legendary tale, blending historical realism with familiar myths. While the film boasts strong performances and…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastFirst Knight (1995) - Jerry Zucker | Houselights #151: Wing of King Arthur
In the latest episode of "Houselights," the debate over 1995's 'First Knight' turned into an epic showdown worthy of the Round Table itself. Our resident…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastExcalibur (1981) - John Boorman | Houselights #150: Wing of King Arthur
"Excalibur" is a mixed bag, a film that combines visual splendor with uneven performances and a somewhat inconsistent tone. While it may not be a flawless…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastMonty Python and the Holy Grail (1975) - Terry Gilliam | Houselights #149: Wing of King Arthur
"Monty Python and the Holy Grail" is a blend of absurd humor, memorable characters, iconic scenes, and biting satire has earned it a well-deserved place in…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Sword in the Stone (1963) - Wolfgang Reitherman | Houselights #148: Wing of King Arthur
"The Sword in the Stone" is a mixed bag. It offers charming characters, some delightful animation sequences, and a whimsical tone that appeals to a younger…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastRisen (2016) - Kevin Reynolds | Houselights #147
Risen offers a fresh perspective on a timeless story, driven by a standout performance from Joseph Fiennes and an intriguing first half. However, the film…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Count of Monte Cristo (2002) - Kevin Reynolds | Houselights #146
Kevin Reynolds' adaptation of "The Count of Monte Cristo" (2002) honors the enduring legacy of Alexandre Dumas' classic novel. With its gripping tale of…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastWaterworld (1995) - Kevin Reynolds | Houselights #145
As we reflect on Kevin Reynolds' "Waterworld," it's important to acknowledge both its shortcomings and its achievements. The film's ambition and creative scope…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastRobin Hood (1991) - Kevin Reynolds | Houselights #144
"Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" remains a film that divides opinion among audiences and critics alike. Its blend of nostalgia, ambitious reimagining of a…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastIncredibles 2 (2018) - Brad Bird | Houselights #143
Pixar is renowned for creating emotionally resonant and thought-provoking animated movies, and "Incredibles 2" falls short of the studio's own high standards…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastTomorrowland (2015) - Brad Bird | Houselights #142
Brad Bird's ambitious attempt to create a thought-provoking sci-fi adventure ultimately leads to a muddled and unsatisfying experience. The lack of character…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastMission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (2011) - Brad Bird | Houselights #141
Brad Bird's direction, combined with Tom Cruise's unwavering commitment to the role of Ethan Hunt, creates a captivating experience that keeps audiences on the…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastRatatouille (2007) - Brad Bird | Houselights #140
Since its release in 2007, Brad Bird's "Ratatouille" has captured the hearts and palates of audiences worldwide. This enchanting animated film tells the story…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Incredibles (2004) - Brad Bird | Houselights #139
Since its release in 2004, "The Incredibles" has captivated audiences of all ages with its thrilling action sequences, heartfelt storytelling, and memorable…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe French Dispatch (2021) - Wes Anderson | Houselights #138
Wes Anderson's "The French Dispatch" is a love letter to journalism, art, and the human spirit. With captivating visuals, exceptional performances, and…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Iron Giant (1999) - Brad Bird | Houselights #137
"The Iron Giant" is a film that resonates on multiple levels. Brad Bird's directorial vision, coupled with a compelling story, exquisite animation, and…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastEnemy Mine (1985) - Wolfgang Petersen | Houselights #136
"Enemy Mine" may not have received the attention it deserved upon its initial release, but its enduring appeal lies in its universal themes and heartfelt…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe NeverEnding Story (1984) - Wolfgang Petersen | Houselights #135
Released in 1984, The NeverEnding Story directed by Wolfgang Petersen is a magical tale that takes viewers on an extraordinary adventure into the world of…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastDas Boot (1981) - Wolfgang Petersen | Houselights #134
Wolfgang Peterson's "Das Boot" remains a film that immerses viewers in the gripping realities of war and the human condition. Through its compelling…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastYou've Got Mail (1998) - Nora Ephron | Houselights #133
Released in 1998 and directed by Nora Ephron, this delightful film not only showcases the remarkable on-screen chemistry between Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks but…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastSleepless in Seattle (1993) - Nora Ephron | Houselights #132
"Sleepless in Seattle" holds a special place in the hearts of many for its endearing performances and unique premise. However, a critical examination reveals a…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastWhen Harry Met Sally (1989) - Rob Reiner | Houselights #131
In the realm of romantic comedies, few films have achieved the level of iconic status and enduring charm as Rob Reiner's 1989 masterpiece, "When Harry Met…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Princess Bride (1987) - Rob Reiner | Houselights #130
Rob Reiner's "The Princess Bride" is a classic film that has stood the test of time. Its witty writing, engaging characters, and unique blend of genres make it…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastStand By Me (1986) - Rob Reiner | Houselights #129
Rob Reiner’s 1986 film “Stand By Me” is a classic coming-of-age story that continues to resonate with audiences to this day. Based on Stephen King’s novella…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThe Sure Thing (1985) - Rob Reiner | Houselights #128
"The Sure Thing" may have been a hit in the 1980s, its portrayal of women, questionable humor, and unsatisfying ending make it a film that is difficult to…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastThis is Spinal Tap (1984) - Rob Reiner | Houselights #127
Despite its initial lackluster box office performance, "This is Spinal Tap" has gained a loyal following over the years, becoming a cultural phenomenon that…
Houselights: A Film Director Podcast2001 (1968) - Stanley Kubrick | Houselights #126
Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" is a groundbreaking science fiction film that has captivated audiences and critics alike since its release in 1968…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastDr Strangelove (1964) - Stanley Kubrick | Houselights #125
Dr. Strangelove, or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb, is a 1964 political satire film directed by Stanley Kubrick. The film is a dark comedy…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastLolita (1962) - Stanley Kubrick | Houselights #124
"Lolita" is a controversial and thought-provoking film directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on the novel of the same name by Vladimir Nabokov. Released in 1962…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastSpartacus (1960) - Stanley Kubrick | Houselights #123
Released in 1960, Spartacus is a historical epic film directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on the novel by Howard Fast. The movie tells the story of a slave who…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastTron Legacy (2010) - Joseph Kosinski | Houselights #122: Wing of Tron
Released in 2010, Tron: Legacy is the sequel to the 1982 film Tron. The movie follows the story of Sam Flynn, the son of Kevin Flynn, the protagonist of the…
Houselights: A Film Director PodcastTron (1982) - Steven Lisberger | Houselights #121: Wing of Tron
In 1982, the world was introduced to a groundbreaking science-fiction film called Tron. Directed by Steven Lisberger and produced by Walt Disney Productions…