FOLLOWING FILMS

  Acclaimed filmmaker Robert Rodriguez is breaking new ground in independent filmmaking with the launch of Brass Knuckle Films, a revolutionary initiative that invites fans to invest in high-impact action films and actively participate in the filmmaking process. This bold venture will not only allow everyday investors to share in the profits but also provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see their own movie ideas brought to life by Rodriguez and his team at Troublemaker Studios. Brass Knuckle Films is redefining the way action movies are made by enabling fans to invest in film projects, offering them exclusive behind-the-scenes access, and even the chance to submit their own movie concepts. Each investor will have the opportunity to pitch a film idea, with ten finalists selected to present their concepts directly to Rodriguez. One lucky winner will see their vision developed into a full-length feature as part of the studio’s upcoming slate. "Across my work, I’ve always sough...

Academy Award winner Nicolas Cage leads an ensemble cast in a new Western thriller directed and written by Brian Skiba. Joining him are Stephen Dorff, Heather Graham, Randall Batinkoff, and Tzi Ma, among others. Set in a small Kentucky town, the film follows the return of America's most wanted man, whose past draws him into a deadly conflict involving a vengeful mob and a king’s ransom. As tensions mount, brothers find themselves on opposing sides of a battle that threatens to tear their town apart. The film premieres in theaters, on-demand, and on digital platforms starting April 11. Blending themes of vengeance, justice, and survival, this Western brings together a compelling cast and a gripping story.

  Today, I’m joined by the incredible Paul Tremblay—acclaimed horror author of The Pallbearers Club and The Cabin at the End of the World, the novel that became M. Night Shyamalan’s Knock at the Cabin. We dive into his hauntingly brilliant work, his love of punk rock, and his involvement in the upcoming documentary series First Word on Horror. Plus, in a fun twist of fate, we chat about how he ended up with a t-shirt from a used bookstore in Tucson—the very one that happens to sponsor this show. For more on First Word on Horror, be sure to visit etchstudio.substack.com/s/first-word-on-horror.

Bruce Vilanch’s It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time is a rollicking, unfiltered journey through a career spent in the chaotic, glittering world of Hollywood comedy writing. For decades, Vilanch has been the go-to scribe for award shows, variety specials, sitcoms, and some of the most notorious trainwrecks in television history. His book serves as both a confession and a celebration of the risks taken in the name of entertainment, and for those who have ever wondered, “How did this ever get made?” Vilanch provides the long-awaited answers—with a hefty dose of self-deprecating wit and behind-the-scenes gossip. From the outset, Vilanch embraces his reputation as both a comedy genius and an inadvertent architect of legendary television disasters. His career spans a surreal spectrum, from writing for Bette Midler and Billy Crystal to crafting infamous cultural relics like The Star Wars Holiday Special and The Brady Bunch Variety Hour. He owns up to these projects with a mix of nostalgia, ...

Released in 1986, Trick or Treat directed by Charles Martin Smith, is a film that blends horror, hair metal, and teen angst, ultimately becoming a cult classic over the years. The movie, set against the backdrop of a mid-80s heavy(ish) metal scene, explores themes of revenge, the supernatural, and the power of music, all wrapped up in a Halloween setting. While Trick or Treat may not have been a major hit upon release, its unique mix of horror and music, combined with a memorable performance by a rising star, has earned it a cherished place in the hearts of horror and metal fans alike. The plot centers around Eddie Weinbauer (Marc Price), a high school outcast and passionate fan of the late rock star Sammi Curr (Tony Fields). Eddie's life takes a dark turn when Sammi dies in a fire under mysterious circumstances, only for Eddie to discover that Sammi’s spirit is still very much alive—and using his music to exact revenge on those who wronged him in life. With the help of Sammi’s mus...

Today, I’m joined by Graham Young of Michigan Rattlers. Following the release of their brilliant third studio album, Waving From A Sea, the Band has hit the road for an intimate set of club dates.  On their pivotal new Drecord, produced by Dominic John Davis(Jack White, Willie Nelson, Greensky Bluegrass), the Michigan-based rock &androll band, with a blend of folk, American, and country influences, pairs the heavy-hitting lyricism they’re known for with a newfound sonic depth, evolving alongside the characters in their songs. 2/28 – San Francisco, CA – Brick + Mortar 3/1 – Los Angeles, CA – The Peppermint Club 3/2 – San Diego, CA – Casbah 3/4 – Phoenix, AZ – Last Exit Live 3/7 – Austin, TX – 3Ten at ACL Live For more information, please visit www.michiganrattlers.com .

Winning an Academy Award for Best Picture is a major achievement, but not all winners are equally deserving. Some films become instant classics, while others are later scrutinized for their shortcomings. One of the most controversial wins in Oscar history was Forrest Gump’s victory in 1994. While the film is beloved by many, almost everyone in my family, its triumph over Pulp Fiction and The Shawshank Redemption has led to ongoing debate. In this piece, we’ll explore why Forrest Gump is the worst film to win Best Picture, from its simplistic storytelling to its regressive themes and the superior films it defeated. Perhaps the biggest issue with Forrest Gump’s win is the films it triumphed over. Pulp Fiction, directed by Quentin Tarantino, revolutionized modern cinema with its nonlinear storytelling, razor-sharp dialogue, and bold direction. The film remains one of the most influential and celebrated movies of all time. Similarly, The Shawshank Redemption has achieved legendary status a...