FOLLOWING FILMS - Podcast, Movies, Music, and More

  Welcome to the Following Films Podcast. I’m your host, and today we are diving into a project that is a must-see for anyone interested in lost cinematic history. One notable entry of the silent era is the loss of Lon Chaney’s 1922… classic? A Blind Bargain. For decades, it has lived only in production stills and the imaginations of horror historians. But our guest today has done something much more ambitious than a simple remake. Paul Bunnell has reimagined this macabre tale, transporting the gothic dread of the original into a stylized, 1970s landscape. The film follows a desperate young man who, driven by the need to save his mother, strikes a devastating deal with an unhinged physician. It’s a story of twisted experiments, moral decay, and the high price of hope. We’re going to talk about the challenges of reviving a "lost" story, the influence of the man of a thousand faces, working with Crispin Glover, and the process of bringing this dark vision to life. A Blind Barga...

Welcome back to another episode of the Following Films podcast. I’m your host, Chris Maynard. Today on the show, we’re diving into a genre that feels like it’s been missing from the multiplex for far too long: the warm-hearted, 80s-style coming-of-age comedy. My guest is the legendary Bobby Farrelly, who is here to talk about his latest film, Driver's Ed. In the film, a group of teens hit the road in a stolen driver’s ed car, racing against time to help a lovesick high school senior (Sam Nivola) track down his college-freshman girlfriend and win her back. In 24 chaotic hours, they’re chased by school security and the cops, shot at by small-time crooks, and somehow adopt a three-legged cat. Also starring Kumail Nanjiani and Molly Shannon.  Driver's Ed hits VOD this Friday, and honestly, it’s a breath of fresh air. It has that genuine heart and nostalgic energy that reminds you why we fell in love with these kinds of stories in the first place. Bobby and I get into the nuts and b...

  Today, we are diving into a project that kicked off this year’s Dallas International Film Festival as the opening night selection. It’s a film that uses the backdrop of competitive youth basketball to explore much larger themes of family, grief, and the weight of expectations. Joining me today is writer and producer Todd M. Friedman to discuss his new film, Last Shot. Starring Jaime Pressly and Michael Rapaport, the story follows a young basketball prodigy navigating life after a significant loss. What makes this project particularly compelling is how it leans into a grounded, realistic drama—a narrative depth that stems from Todd’s own experiences on the sidelines and the unique decision to cast his son, Dylan Friedman, in the lead role. We’re going to talk about the transition from personal experience to the page, the collaborative process of indie filmmaking, and what it’s like to premiere a project of this scale.

One of the most rewarding parts of this show is getting to highlight filmmakers who possess a truly distinct, non-formulaic voice, and today’s guest is a perfect example. Recently named one of Variety’s 2026 Directors to Watch, Chandler Levack is having a massive moment with two films hitting screens this week. On one hand, there is her indie festival darling, Mile End Kicks, a raw and vibrant portrait of a young writer finding her footing in the Montreal music scene. On the other, she is making her studio debut with the Netflix comedy Roommates. While it features a massive ensemble—including Sadie Sandler, Chloe East, Sarah Sherman, and Natasha Lyonne—it manages to elevate the traditional college freshman comedy into something far more poignant and relatable. Chandler’s background as a music and arts journalist for publications like SPIN and The Village Voice brings a unique texture to her filmmaking, and I’ve been eager to dive into her process. Today, we’re talking about the transit...

On today’s episode, we are diving into the high-stakes world of true crime and the intricate process of bringing procedural intensity to the small screen. Joining us is Executive Producer Matt Robins to discuss his work on the series FEDS, which is currently airing on Investigation Discovery. We’re specifically looking at the upcoming episode, "Gangbuster," which premieres on April 1st. It’s a compelling look at a community in Southern Florida gripped by a wave of unsolved shootings, and the story follows rookie FBI Special Agent Jessica Box as she attempts to dismantle the gang responsible. In our conversation, Matt and I talk about the balance between the gritty reality of gang violence and the character-driven narrative of a rookie agent finding her footing under immense pressure. We also touch on the collaborative effort between federal and local law enforcement that makes this particular episode so authentic. It’s an insightful look at the storytelling behind one of the ...

Thank you for listening to the F ollowing Films Podcast , your go-to source for in-depth interviews with today’s most exciting filmmakers and performers. In today’s episode, we’re joined by the legendary Doug Jones to discuss his latest film, Operation Taco Garry’s — a wildly absurd sci-fi comedy that blends alien invasions, outrageous humor, and a taco joint at the center of a cosmic conspiracy. Operation Taco Garry’s follows two brothers who accidentally uncover an intergalactic plot hidden inside Taco Gary’s. What starts as a wrong-turn road trip quickly turns into a fight to save Earth. This off-the-wall alien invasion comedy stars Simon Rex, Dustin Milligan, Brenda Song, Jason Biggs, and Doug Jones in a cast packed with comedic talent. Known for his transformative performances and iconic creature roles, Doug Jones brings his signature physicality and creativity to this unique sci-fi adventure. In this exclusive interview, we explore: What attracted Doug Jones to Operation ...

Welcome to the Following Films Podcast! I’m your host, Chris Maynard. Today, we are diving into a massive double-feature cinematic event. Releasing simultaneously on Digital today, February 20, 2026, are One Mile: Chapter One and One Mile: Chapter Two. This is a unique, two-part saga from director Adam Davidson that prioritizes grit and tension, designed to be experienced as a complete journey. In Chapter One, Ryan Phillippe stars as a former special forces operative attempting to reconnect with his teenage daughter (played by Amélie Hoeferle) during a college road trip. When an unexpected detour puts them in the sights of a secretive, off-the-grid community, the trip devolves into a desperate fight for survival. The narrative deepens in Chapter Two, as he is forced back to a remote island when that same violent community abducts his daughter in an act of revenge. It’s a relentless hunt where the emotional stakes are just as heavy as the physical ones. We have two vital perspectives on...

  Welcome to the Following Films Podcast, I’m your host, Chris Maynard. I’m sitting down with Matt Johnson and Jay MCarrol to talk about Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie. If you’ve followed their journey from the early web series days to the cult-hit TV show, you know the drill: two guys, zero songs, and a delusional obsession with booking a gig at the Rivoli in Toronto. This time around, the stakes are hilariously high, we’re talking skydiving into the Skydome, accidental time travel fueled by a discontinued bottle of Orbitz soda, and a DIY mission to 2008 that is as heartfelt as it is ridiculous. It’s a brilliant mix of guerrilla filmmaking and high-concept adventure that you have to see to believe, so make sure to check your local listings for showtimes. Before we jump in, if you enjoy this conversation, please remember to leave a review and subscribe, it really helps the show grow. I hope you enjoy the show.

On this episode, I’m joined by John Kinnane, writer, and Brendan Kinnane, executive producer—two members of the Kinnane Brothers, an eight-sibling filmmaking family who are redefining what an independent film operation can look like. Their new feature, Solo Mio, is in theaters right now. Released by Angel Studios on 3,000 screens, the film opened in second place at the box office—an enormous achievement for a true micro-budget production. It’s the kind of story exhibitors and indie filmmakers dream about: a scrappy, family-run production going toe-to-toe with studio titles and winning over audiences. If the Kinnane name sounds familiar, it might be from their viral “sound guy” shorts with Kevin James during the pandemic—videos that exploded online and put them on the industry’s radar. From there, brothers Chuck and Dan directed Home Team for Adam Sandler, starring Kevin James, which debuted at number one on Netflix. Now with Solo Mio, all eight brothers are officially credited on a sin...

  Today on the Following Films Podcast, we’re joined by Zainab Azizi, producer at Sam Raimi’s Raimi Productions and one of the key creative forces behind the upcoming film Send Help. We talk about working inside Raimi’s production company, developing elevated genre films, and what it’s really like collaborating with one of the most iconic voices in modern horror. From behind-the-scenes process to navigating the studio system, this is a conversation about making bold films and surviving the chaos that comes with them. Send Help will be in theatres on January 30th.

Welcome back to The Following Films Podcast, where we dive into the stories behind the films that move us, challenge us, and stay with us long after the credits roll. Today’s episode brings us a powerful new drama that explores trauma, resilience, and the complicated journey home after war. Sheepdog, written and directed by Steven Grayhm, arrives in theaters January 16, 2026, and it’s a deeply human story about what it really takes to heal. The film centers on Calvin Cole, a decorated U.S. Army combat veteran who is court-ordered into treatment under the care of a VA trauma therapist in training. Just as he begins confronting his past, his estranged father-in-lawm a retired Vietnam veteran recently released from prison, arrives at his doorstep, forcing Calvin to face everything he’s been trying to outrun. Through community, tough love, and compassion, Sheepdog becomes a story about putting yourself back together again, for your family, and for yourself. The film features an extraordina...

  Welcome back to the Following Films Podcast. I’m your host, Chris Maynard, and today I’m joined by writer-director Ali Cook to talk about his Oscar-shortlisted new short film, The Pearl Comb. Starring Beatie Edney (Highlander) and Ali Cook (Kajaki), The Pearl Comb follows the wife of a fisherman whose miraculous healing powers draw the scrutiny of the medical establishment. When she becomes the first person known to cure tuberculosis, a skeptical doctor is sent to investigate. Set in a time when women were barred from practicing medicine, the film explores power, belief, and the limits society places on women—what begins as an attempt to expose her becomes a journey that challenges long-held scientific and gender-based assumptions. Inspired by the true story of the Edinburgh Seven, the first women to study medicine in the UK, The Pearl Comb blends historical drama with mysticism.  We also discuss Ali's remarkable career as both a magician and stand-up comedian and dig into h...

Actor Jon Heder joins host Chris Maynard for a wide-ranging conversation about his new film Tapawingo. Best known for his iconic role in the cult classic Napoleon Dynamite, Heder talks about choosing meaningful projects, the creative process behind Tapawingo, and where he’s at in his career today. The episode also looks back at his collaboration with Billy Zane in Waltzing With Brando, with behind-the-scenes stories and reflections on independent filmmaking. Tapawingo is available on Blu-ray starting today, December 16th. A great listen for movie lovers, film fans, and anyone interested in the art of acting.

Today on the podcast, Chris Maynard sits down with filmmaker Kevin Lewis—yes, that Kevin Lewis, the mad genius who gave us Willy’s Wonderland and cemented his place in modern cult horror. He’s back with a new Southern-Gothic nightmare, Pig Hill, a film that premiered at FrightFest and is now available on VOD courtesy of Cineverse, the folks behind Terrifier 3 and The Toxic Avenger. Pig Hill follows Carrie, played by Rainey Qualley, a young woman obsessed with the eerie legend of the “pig people”—grotesque creatures said to stalk the wooded hills of her rural hometown. As the disappearances of local women reach a chilling tenth victim, Carrie, her brother (Shiloh Fernandez), and their friend Andy (Shane West) begin digging into the folklore… and discover there may be more truth to the stories than anyone wants to believe. So let’s dive into Pig Hill, the filmmaking process, and what keeps Kevin chasing the next nightmare. Pig Hill is available on VOD today—and I’m thrilled to welcome Ke...

Welcome to another episode of The Following Films Podcast. Today, I’m thrilled to be joined once again by director Simon Cellan Jones. If you’ve been with us for a while, you’ll remember our fantastic conversation around his film Arthur the King — and I’ve been eager to have him back on ever since. Simon returns at a particularly exciting moment in his career. His highly anticipated new project, The Family Plan 2, starring Mark Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan, will be hitting Apple TV+ on November 21st. We’ll be diving into the making of the film, revisiting his experience on Arthur the King, and exploring how his storytelling continues to evolve across such varied and ambitious projects. I’m genuinely grateful to have him back on the show — so without further ado, here is my conversation with Simon Cellan Jones.

Today’s episode is a really fun one — I got to sit down with Augie Duke to talk about her work on The Workout, but like all good conversations, we ended up going everywhere. We talk about the fear that creeps in when you become a parent, the joy and tragedy of video stores, pets, and a bunch of other beautifully random things along the way. Now, full disclosure — this one’s got some real-life texture to it. Augie’s Wi-Fi drops out here and there, so there are a few abrupt edits, and I had the office door open because, you know, life happens — the dogs are making noise, one of my kids and the love of my life walk by. It’s a bit chaotic… and I honestly wouldn’t have it any other way. So settle in, embrace the imperfections, and enjoy this conversation with Augie Duke. The Workout is now available on VOD.

Today I’m joined by Director and Showrunner Nancy Schwartzman to discuss DEATH IN APARTMENT 603: WHAT HAPPENED TO ELLEN GREENBERG? The emotional and gripping docuseries investigates the mysterious death of Ellen Greenberg, a 27-year-old Philadelphia schoolteacher found dead in the apartment she shared with her fiancé on a snowy night in January 2011, just seven months before her upcoming wedding. Greenberg sustained 20 knife wounds and had 11 bruises on her body in various stages of healing. To the shock of many who knew her, detectives on the scene treated her death as a suicide; but when her autopsy results came back, her cause of death was ruled a homicide. Shortly thereafter, the manner of death was inexplicably reversed to suicide, and the city of Philadelphia shut the case without further investigation. Now, 14 years later, this three-part series exclusively follows Ellen’s parents, Sandee and Josh Greenberg, as they fight to reopen the investigation and learn the truth about the...

  Hey everyone, welcome back to The Following Films Podcast, where we dive into the art, craft, and passion behind the movies. Today I’m joined by Sid Abbruzzi Water Brothers: The Sid Abbruzzi Story follows the life of surf and skate core legend and cultural icon Sid Abbruzzi, and his commitment to protecting the sports’ history and culture. Through a mix of never-before-seen archival film, large format cinematic footage, and personal interviews from culture giants like Tony Hawk, Shepard Fairey, Selema Masekela and more; we are taken on a journey through surfing and skating history - from 1960s Newport to Santa Cruz, Cocoa Beach, South Africa's Jeffrey's Bay, and beyond.  As Sid approaches the age of 72, the film captures the final days of his famous Water Brothers Surf & Skate shop as it is set to be demolished and the impact it had on the surf and skate community. The documentary emphasizes the importance of memory, personal history, and living in the moment, reminding...

My guest today is a true legend in the world of action filmmaking. Daniel Bernhardt joins me to discuss his starring role in Steven Kostanski’s reimagining of the Roger Corman B-Movie classic Deathstalker. The Kingdom of Abraxeon is under siege by the Dreadites, heralds of the long-dead sorcerer Nekromemnon. When Deathstalker recovers a cursed amulet from a corpse-strewn battlefield, he's marked by dark magick and hunted by monstrous assassins. To survive, he must break the curse and face the rising evil. Death is just the beginning… of great adventure!" Deathstalker is now playing theatres everywhere.

  Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast. Today I’m joined by  Steven Feinartz, director of the new documentary film ARE WE GOOD The film is an intimate portrait of comedian and podcast pioneer Marc Maron, following the sudden loss of his partner and filmmaker Lynn Shelton. Maron struggles with grief, disillusionment, and a shifting comedy landscape. The film features interviews with comics including Nate Bargatze, John Mulaney, David Cross, W. Kamau Bell, and Laurie Kilmartin.  As well as WTF podcast footage from his interviews with President Barack Obama, Andrew Garfield, Patton Oswalt and many more. The film is in theaters in NY & LA on October 3rd, with nationwide theatrical events on October 5th & 8t! for showtimes go to  https://www.arewegoodmaron.com/