Following Films Podcast

Following Films
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  • FILM INTERVIEWS
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Interviews with some of the most unique voices in independent film and popular culture. Think of it as a weekly film recommendation for something a bit off the beaten path. Become a Paid Subscriber: https://anchor.fm/followingfilms/subscribe

  1. 3D AGO

    "Punk Rock Girl Dad" Sid Broderius on Making Music in the Age of Social Media

    Welcome back to the Following Films Podcast. Today’s guest has captured the internet's heart by proving that being a parent doesn't mean you have to look like a suburban dad. Known to millions as the "Punk Rock Girl Dad," Sid Broderius has gone viral for his videos introducing his young daughter, Lorelai, to the high-energy world of The Riverboat Gamblers, Ramones, Against Me!, and The Clash. Based in Spokane, Washington, Sid has been a staple of the local music scene for two decades and currently plays in the band The Emergency Exit. Whether he is letting Lorelai explore his guitar collection or spinning classic punk vinyl, his philosophy is rooted in sharing his deepest passions to foster genuine family bonding through music and subculture. With a following of over 32,000 on Instagram and shout-outs from bands like Bowling for Soup, Sid is showing the world that the next generation of music fans starts at home. We’re going to talk about his viral journey, his life in the Spokane scene, and the art of passing down a punk rock legacy. Please welcome to the show, Sid Broderius.

    43 min
  2. Todd M. Friedman on Last Shot

    APR 26

    Todd M. Friedman on Last Shot

    Welcome to another episode of the Following Films Podcast. I’m Chris Maynard. 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. Todd, welcome to the show!

    29 min
  3. Chandler Levack on the Netflix film ROOMMATES

    APR 15

    Chandler Levack on the Netflix film ROOMMATES

    Welcome back to the Following Films Podcast. I’m your host, Chris Maynard. 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 transition to a major studio project, what it was like collaborating with Adam Sandler, the critical importance of getting the right faces in the right roles, and, of course, the specific films and music that changed our lives. It’s a wide-ranging conversation with one of the most exciting directors working today. Please welcome to the show, Chandler Levack.

    41 min
  4. Matt Robins on FEDS Season 2

    APR 1

    Matt Robins on FEDS Season 2

    Welcome to the Following Films Podcast. I’m your host, Chris Maynard. 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 most gripping crime dramas on television right now. So, let’s get into it—here is my interview with Matt Robins

    30 min
  5. Matthew Shear on FANTASY LIFE

    MAR 26

    Matthew Shear on FANTASY LIFE

    Thank you for listening to the Following Films Podcast. If you are anything like me, you are always searching for those rare stories that feel both intellectually sharp and deeply human, films that capture the messy, rhythmic chaos of life and relationships. Today, we are diving into a project that fits that description perfectly: the new romantic dramedy, Fantasy Life. Fresh off a triumphant run at the SXSW Film Festival—where it took home the Audience Award and a Special Jury Award for its star, Amanda Peet—Fantasy Life is a smart, New York-centric story written and directed by its lead, Matthew Shear. The film follows Sam Stein, played by Shear, a former paralegal who, after a panic attack, finds himself babysitting for his own psychiatrist. What follows is a summer on Martha's Vineyard involving a stalled actor played by Peet, her rock-bassist husband played by Alessandro Nivola, a house full of grandparents, and the delicate, shared history of mental illness. It features an incredible ensemble cast including legends like Judd Hirsch, Bob Balaban, and Holland Taylor. Joining me today is the multi-hyphenate behind the film, Matthew Shear, to talk about the transition from acting to the director's chair and the inspiration behind this "smart New York rom-com." Because there was so much to dig into regarding the writing process and this stellar cast, we have the entire conversation for you today, presented in two parts. Fantasy Life opens in New York on March 27th, with a nationwide theatrical release on April 3rd. Let’s get into my interview with Matthew Shear.

    46 min
  6. Doug Jones on Operation Taco Garry’s

    FEB 26

    Doug Jones on Operation Taco Garry’s

    Thank you for listening to the Following 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 Taco Garry’s How he approached the film’s over-the-top sci-fi comedy tone What makes this alien invasion story stand out from traditional genre films Behind-the-scenes insights from working with the cast If you’re a fan of sci-fi comedies, alien invasion movies, or Doug Jones’ unforgettable performances, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Operation Taco Garry’s hits theaters Friday, February 27, so grab your tickets and experience the chaos, comedy, and cosmic conspiracy on the big screen. Be sure to like, subscribe, and leave a review to support the Following Films Podcast. Your support helps us continue bringing you exclusive interviews with the filmmakers and actors you love. Now, let’s dive in. Here’s our conversation with Doug Jones.

    16 min
  7. C. Thomas Howell and Adam Davidson on ONE MILE: Chapters 1 & 2

    FEB 20

    C. Thomas Howell and Adam Davidson on ONE MILE: Chapters 1 & 2

    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 how these character-driven thrillers came to life: C. Thomas Howell: First up, the legendary actor joins me to discuss his role in the films. We talk about the complexities of his character and what it's like stepping into a world where the "villains" believe they are the heroes of their own story. Adam Davidson: Following that, I’m joined by the director himself. Adam breaks down the process of filming two features back-to-back and how he maintained the grounded, character-focused tone across both chapters. Up first, my interview with C. Thomas Howell...

    45 min
  8. Sevan Najarian on The Whitest Kids U’Know's MARS

    FEB 19

    Sevan Najarian on The Whitest Kids U’Know's MARS

    Welcome to another episode of the Following Films Podcast. Today, we are exploring a project that is equal parts hilarious, bizarre, and incredibly poignant: the animated feature film MARS. This film marks the final project from the legendary cult comedy troupe The Whitest Kids U’Know, serving as a bittersweet and brilliant capstone to the legacy of the late, beloved Trevor Moore. Joining me to discuss the Herculean effort required to bring this vision to the big screen is the film’s director and producer, Sevan Najarian. He has been a vital force in the alternative media landscape for years, and in this episode, we trace his fascinating career path, from his early days getting into the director’s chair for animation to his involvement with the irreverent and influential world of Channel Zero. We also dive deep into the "scrappy" and often painstaking labor of love that was the production of MARS. Conceptualized over a decade ago, the film follows Kyle, a man who enters a contest to go to the Red Planet mostly to escape his impending wedding, only to find himself stranded with a crew of lunatics on a ship that is anything but luxury.  With an 8-city screening tour kicking off February 20th at participating Alamo Drafthouse locations and a wider theatrical release on March 13th, there has never been a better time to celebrate the return of the WKUK. So, let’s get into my conversation with Sevan Najarian about the decade-long journey to the Red Planet, the evolution of his career, and why this story is more relevant today than ever before.

    36 min
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About

Interviews with some of the most unique voices in independent film and popular culture. Think of it as a weekly film recommendation for something a bit off the beaten path. Become a Paid Subscriber: https://anchor.fm/followingfilms/subscribe

Information

  • Creator
    Following Films
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    438
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Following Films
  • Show Website
    Following Films Podcast

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