FOLLOWING FILMS

What is the greatest movie year of all time? Let's take a look at some of the most often cited years: 1974  highlights the creativity of the “New Hollywood” era, a period defined by directors like Francis Ford Coppola and Roman Polanski who pushed the boundaries of storytelling and genre. It’s known for blending popular appeal with artistic ambition. A few highlights from 1974: The Godfather Part II, Chinatown, Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre 1994 was a renaissance for mainstream and indie cinema with its mix of highly successful popcorn and art house films. 1994 brought Quentin Tarantino’s irreverent style to the mainstream while introducing classics that resonated with audiences of all types. It’s often cited for its variety and quality across genres. A few highlights from 1994: Pulp Fiction, The Shawshank Redemption, Forrest Gump, The Lion King, Clerks 1999 was a year defined by visionary filmmaking with films like The Matrix, Fight Club, Being ...

Welcome to The Following Films Podcast! I’m your host, Chris Maynard, and today we have a fascinating episode lined up for you. I’m thrilled to be joined by the multi-talented Steven Machat, a renowned music industry executive, author, politician, and filmmaker. Steven has made waves in the entertainment world, including his impactful work with the Buena Vista Orchestra, where he helped bridge the gap between classical/roots/traditional music and contemporary sounds. His unique insights into the intersection of music, film, and politics are truly captivating. In this episode, we’ll dive into his journey through the arts, explore his experiences with the orchestra, and discuss the stories that shape our creative landscapes. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a music lover, or just someone who appreciates a good story, you won’t want to miss this conversation. For more information about the Buena Vista Orchestra’s current tour go to ⁠ https://thebuenavistaorchestra.com/⁠ For more information on...

We have all seen tales of family dysfunction and adolescent angst, HIPPO bursts onto the scene with a surrealist, tragicomic energy all its own. Written and directed by Mark H. Rapaport, an exciting new voice in indie filmmaking, the film presents (according to early reactions) an absurd yet deeply emotional portrait of two mismatched step-siblings navigating the hormonal rollercoaster of adolescence against the backdrop of their increasingly strange, shared world. In an era where teenage angst has been mined endlessly for familiar narratives, HIPPO appears to offer something refreshingly different, a blend of absurdity and heart that could make for unforgettable experience. If the film's wild premise is any indication, HIPPO is sure to spark plenty of conversation—and perhaps a few nightmares—among those brave enough to venture into its chaotic world. HIPPO will be in select theaters on November 12th  Check out the trailer below

Few films embody the chaotic spirit of Halloween quite like Michael Dougherty's Trick 'r Treat. Released in 2007 after a long, perplexing delay, the anthology horror flick delivers a gleefully sinister tribute to the holiday that is as playful as it is macabre. Its narrative structure—four intertwined stories set on a single Halloween night—echoes the great horror anthologies of the past while injecting the genre with a fresh, modern bite. In doing so, Trick 'r Treat cements itself as an essential October watch for horror enthusiasts and Halloween die-hards alike. Dougherty, making his feature directorial debut after penning X2: X-Men United, demonstrates a keen understanding of both horror and Halloween tradition. He weaves together a tapestry of urban legends and holiday myths that feel deeply rooted in the folklore surrounding the holiday. From the mischievous trick-or-treaters to the lurking presence of a masked, pint-sized Halloween enforcer named Sam, the film explore...

  Welcome to the Following Films Podcast! I’m your host, and today we have a truly inspiring guest for you. We’re joined by Peggy Lu, an incredible actor best known for her memorable role as Mrs. Chen in the Venom films. But Peggy is much more than just a talented performer; she also holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Medicine, using her expertise to provide compassionate hospice support. In this episode, we’ll dive into Peggy’s journey through the worlds of acting and medicine, exploring how her dual passions intersect and enrich each other. Plus, we’ll hear about how she supported the show by purchasing a shirt from the Following Films website!!!! Venom The Last Dance will be in theatres this Friday October 25th

HBO’s Succession is a riveting, darkly comic drama that captures the cutthroat dynamics of a wealthy media empire and the dysfunctional family that runs it. Across its four seasons, the series artfully dissects the corrosive impact of wealth and power on the Roy family, led by the imperious Logan Roy (Brian Cox), as his children vie for control of the global media conglomerate, Waystar Royco. Created by Jesse Armstrong, Succession blends biting satire with Shakespearean drama, making each season an intricate, suspense-filled chess match between the siblings—Kendall (Jeremy Strong), Roman (Kieran Culkin), Shiv (Sarah Snook), and Connor (Alan Ruck)—as they jockey for dominance. The show’s deft writing, meticulous performances, and unpredictable plotting make it one of the best TV dramas in recent memory. Season 1: The Rise of Dysfunction The first season introduces the Roy family, with patriarch Logan Roy at the helm of Waystar Royco, a global media empire. Logan’s failing health sparks ...

Curb Your Enthusiasm is a landmark in television comedy, renowned for its innovative, improvisational style that sets it apart from traditional sitcoms. Created by Larry David, the co-creator of Seinfeld, the show masterfully blends semi-scripted dialogue with spontaneous interactions, adding an unmatched level of authenticity to its humor. What truly makes Curb groundbreaking is its exploration of social conventions, often poking fun at the absurdities of everyday life. By shining a spotlight on unwritten social rules, it prompts viewers to reflect on their own experiences, while making them laugh at the awkward and cringeworthy moments that ensue when those rules are broken. A key reason for the show’s significance lies in its complex characters and sharp cultural commentary. Larry David’s character, a fictionalized version of himself, is equal parts relatable and infuriating. His neurotic nature and unfiltered honesty often put him at odds with the world around him, resonating with...