THE FIXATE & BINGE PODCAST, with Host, Joe Curdy: Deep dives into cinema and storytelling with voices who create it

Joe Curdy
  • 5.0 (19)
  • Film Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to The Fixate & Binge Podcast, where host Joe Curdy dives deep into the world of film and television — exploring the stories that move us and the creators who bring them to life. Each week, Joe sits down with filmmakers, writers, actors, and producers from around the globe to unpack the art, craft, and cultural impact of movies and TV. From indie gems to major releases, every conversation blends thoughtful analysis with candid, down-to-earth storytelling. Whether you’re a passionate cinephile, a storyteller in the making, or just someone who loves a good binge, this show helps you see what’s on screen in a whole new light. Expect smart conversation, honest recommendations, and insights that connect cinema to real life.  🎬 New episodes every Tuesday. Tune in, think deeply, and binge wisely.

  1. 1h ago

    DO US PART: The Rom-Com Isn’t Dead — Writer & Director Reed Arnold Just Proved It!

    Send us Fan Mail DO US PART: The Rom-Com Isn’t Dead — Reed Arnold Just Proved It For decades, the romantic comedy was one of Hollywood’s most dependable—and beloved—genres. Then streaming changed the theatrical landscape, horror took over the multiplex, and the mid-budget rom-com seemingly disappeared. Enter Reed Arnold. In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy sits down with Arnold—the writer, director, and star of DO US PART, his impressive feature-film debut—to talk about bringing a genuinely funny, heartfelt romantic comedy back to the big screen. Set against the increasingly chaotic backdrop of a countryside wedding, DO US PART follows a best man desperately trying to keep a celebration from completely unraveling when buried feelings, complicated friendships, and one very unexpected confession threaten to derail everything. But beneath the laughs is something much more meaningful: a story about unrequited love, enduring friendship, sacrifice, and the painful question of what might have been. Joe recently gave DO US PART a 4.5/5-star review, calling it “a breath of fresh air” and a welcome reminder that the theatrical rom-com “hasn’t lost its mojo—Hollywood has simply forgotten how much we still need it.” In this wide-ranging conversation, Reed talks about writing, directing, and starring in his debut feature; the origins of DO US PART; translating the story from stage to screen; creating authentic chemistry between his three leads; balancing escalating comedy with genuine emotional stakes; and why romantic comedies still matter. DO US PART is currently playing in select theaters and arrives on Apple TV on August 14, 2026. If you’ve been waiting for Hollywood to remember how to make you laugh, fall in love, and maybe even shed a tear along the way, this episode—and this movie—are for you. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

  2. Aug 4

    THE ODYSSEY Explained: Christopher Nolan's Most Human Film Yet?

    Send us Fan Mail Christopher Nolan's THE ODYSSEY is already being celebrated for its breathtaking IMAX photography and epic scope—but is its greatest achievement something far more intimate? In this solo episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy moves beyond the spectacle to explore the film's deeper philosophical questions. Is Odysseus' voyage really about crossing the Mediterranean... or confronting the man he has become? What does "coming home" truly mean after years of war, violence, moral compromise, and unbearable loss? Joe also offers an honest—and perhaps controversial—take on experiencing the film in 70mm IMAX versus standard digital IMAX, questioning whether the premium format ultimately enhanced or distracted from the emotional experience. From Matt Damon's quietly devastating performance to the haunting presence of Athena, Zeus' Law, survivor's guilt, and the unforgettable metaphor of the Sirens' "delicious itch," this episode explores why THE ODYSSEY may be Nolan's most reflective and emotionally resonant film to date. Sometimes the longest journey isn't across an ocean. It's the one that leads us back to ourselves. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

  3. Jul 28

    25 YEARS OF QUEER CINEMA HISTORY: Queer Cinema Trailblazer Todd Stephens & Birkett Turton Celebrate the Cult Classic GYSPY 83

    Send us Fan Mail Twenty-five years after its release, GYPSY 83 has become something rare in independent cinema: a film that grew more meaningful with time. On this special episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I am joined by writer/director Todd Stephens and actor Birkett Turton to celebrate the enduring legacy of a film that has evolved from an overlooked independent release into a beloved cult classic. Todd Stephens has long been recognized as a trailblazer in Queer Cinema, creating deeply personal stories centered around identity, belonging, friendship, and the search for connection. With GYPSY 83, he introduced audiences to an unforgettable road movie about two young people discovering themselves, finding confidence, and creating their own chosen family. We revisit the making of the 2001 film starring Sara Rue as Gypsy and Birkett Turton as Clive, exploring the incredible chemistry between its two leads, the challenges of bringing the story to life, and how a movie that was not initially embraced by critics has gone on to inspire generations of fans. Todd and Birkett share behind-the-scenes memories from production, reflect on the film's cultural impact 25 years later, and discuss why GYPSY 83 continues to resonate with audiences searching for stories about acceptance, individuality, and finding your place in the world. Before welcoming my guests, I also have a little fun discussing the early backlash toward Christopher Nolan's upcoming THE ODYSSEY and offering a playful message to those already writing off a film before they've even seen it. This episode is a celebration of independent filmmaking, Queer Cinema history, and the rare films that become more powerful as the years go by. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

  4. Jul 14

    The Heart Behind the 2025 film HORSEGIRLS: Lauren Meyering & Lillian Carrier on Authentic Autism Representation

    Send us Fan Mail Writer-director Lauren Meyering and breakout star Lillian Carrier join The Fixate & Binge Podcast to discuss one of 2025's most heartfelt independent films, HORSEGIRLS, which debuted at New York's 2025 Tribeca Film Festival.  Inspired by a true story, HORSEGIRLS follows Margarita, a 22-year-old autistic woman navigating adulthood while caring for—and being cared for by—her fiercely protective mother, played by Gretchen Mol. As Margarita discovers the unexpected world of competitive hobby horse riding, she begins to find confidence, community, and her own identity at a pivotal moment in both of their lives. Joe sits down with Meyering and Carrier for an honest conversation about adapting a deeply personal true story for the screen, the importance of authentic neurodivergent representation, collaborating with Gretchen Mol, balancing humor with emotional honesty, and why the film refuses to rely on familiar Hollywood clichés. Carrier also reflects on bringing her own lived experience as an autistic actor to the role of Margarita and what it meant to portray a character with such sincerity and authenticity. Plus, Joe shares why HORSEGIRLS became one of his favorite discoveries of the year, praising the remarkable performances from Carrier and Mol and the film's compassionate portrait of family, independence, and acceptance. If you love character-driven independent cinema and conversations about authentic storytelling, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

  5. Jul 7

    The Mid-Year Movie & TV Check-In: What's Working in 2026?

    Send us Fan Mail As we reach the halfway point of 2026, it's the perfect time to look back at the movies and television shows that have made the biggest impact so far this year. In this special solo episode, Joe Curdy shares his favorite films and television series of 2026—from big studio releases and prestige television to independent gems that deserve a wider audience. Along the way, he reflects on the year's biggest surprises, a few disappointments, and the common themes that seem to be resonating with audiences today. Featuring discussion of Project Hail Mary, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Toy Story 5, The Sheep Detectives, Omaha, Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, Obsession, The Furious, The Bear, The Pitt, House of the Dragon, Silo, Jury Duty: Company Retreat, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Widow's Bay, and Cape Fear, this episode goes beyond reviews to explore why these stories matter—and what they might say about the kinds of stories we're seeking in 2026. Whether you're searching for your next great movie, the next television series to binge, or simply enjoy thoughtful conversations about film and television, this mid-year check-in has something for every movie and TV fan. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

  6. Jun 30

    WATCHING THE SKIES (Part 2): Award-Winning Writer/Filmmaker Vito Trupiano on DISCLOSURE DAY, UAPs & the UFO Mystery

    Send us Fan Mail In Part 2 of our special WATCHING THE SKIES series, what began as a continuation of our exploration of cinema's fascination with UFOs and UAPs takes an unexpected turn when award-winning filmmaker Vito Trupiano (HELLBENT ON BOOGIE) joins the conversation. A lifelong student of the UAP phenomenon—and currently developing a passion project centered on the subject—Vito brings a filmmaker's perspective and an enthusiast's curiosity to one of humanity's greatest mysteries. Together, we dive deep into Steven Spielberg's DISCLOSURE DAY, discussing what resonated, what left us wanting more, and how the film compares to decades of UFO storytelling on screen. Our conversation quickly expands beyond the movies into documented encounters, government disclosures, military testimony, and the enduring questions surrounding unexplained aerial phenomena that continue to captivate scientists, skeptics, and believers alike. Along the way, we also revisit several modern classics that have shaped the genre—including DISTRICT 9, ARRIVAL, THE VAST OF NIGHT, UNDER THE SKIN, NO ONE WILL SAVE YOU, NOPE, and PROJECT HAIL MARY—while exploring why UFO cinema continues to mirror humanity's hopes, fears, and fascination with the unknown. Whether you're a lifelong believer, an open-minded skeptic, or simply a fan of great science fiction, this free-flowing conversation offers an engaging look at where film, imagination, and the unexplained intersect. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

  7. Jun 23

    WATCHING THE SKIES How UFO Movies Reflect America's Hopes, Fears, & Fascination with the Unknown (Part 1 of 2)

    Send us Fan Mail For decades, stories of UFOs, extraterrestrials, and unexplained aerial phenomena have captured the imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike. Inspired by my father’s seventeen years working for NASA—and the stories he shared about humanity’s enduring fascination with the possibility of life beyond Earth—I take a deep dive into some of cinema’s most influential UFO and alien-themed films. In Part One of this two-part series, I explore classics such as THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL, CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND, E.T. THE EXTRA TERRESTRIAL, STARMAN, THE THING, THEY LIVE, THE ABYSS, FIRE IN THE SKY, and CONTACT. Rather than debating whether UFOs or extraterrestrials exist, this discussion examines what these films reveal about us: our fears, our hopes, our politics, our faith, and our relationship with authority. From Cold War anxieties and government secrecy to environmental concerns, media manipulation, consumerism, and the search for spiritual meaning, these films often use alien encounters as mirrors reflecting the societies that created them. Join me as I look beyond the flying saucers and little green men to uncover the deeper messages hidden within some of science fiction cinema’s most enduring works. The truth may be out there—but the stories we tell about it can reveal just as much about humanity as they do about what might exist beyond the stars. Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

  8. Jun 16

    HOW DO YOU HEAL AFTER LOSS? | HONEYJOON Writer & Director Lilian T. Mehrel on Grief, Love & Finding Joy Again

    Send us Fan Mail This week on The Fixate & Binge Podcast, host Joe Curdy dives into one of the year's most touching independent films, HONEYJOON, with writer-director Lilian T. Mehrel. Before the interview, Joe shares his thoughts on three recent releases: the mind-bending Japanese thriller EXIT 8, the big-screen return of MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE, and the bone-crushing action spectacle THE FURIOUS, a film he absolutely loved. Then, Joe sits down with Mehrel to discuss her acclaimed debut feature, HONEYJOON, a moving and surprisingly funny story about love, loss, grief, desire, and healing. Filmed entirely on location in Portugal's breathtaking Azores, the film follows a mother and daughter navigating profound loss while rediscovering life, connection, and themselves.  The conversation explores the film's emotional origins, shooting in one of the world's most beautiful locations, creating authentic mother-daughter dynamics, balancing comedy with heartbreak, and what it takes to bring an independent feature from script to screen. HONEYJOON follows a mother and daughter traveling to the Azores after a family loss, where they confront grief, connection, and the possibility of moving forward.  Whether you're a fan of independent cinema, stories about family and healing, or simply love hearing filmmakers discuss their creative process, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen now and discover why HONEYJOON is connecting so deeply with audiences. 🎙️🎬✨ Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below! Read our Letterboxd reviews at: https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/ Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=ms Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcast

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About

Welcome to The Fixate & Binge Podcast, where host Joe Curdy dives deep into the world of film and television — exploring the stories that move us and the creators who bring them to life. Each week, Joe sits down with filmmakers, writers, actors, and producers from around the globe to unpack the art, craft, and cultural impact of movies and TV. From indie gems to major releases, every conversation blends thoughtful analysis with candid, down-to-earth storytelling. Whether you’re a passionate cinephile, a storyteller in the making, or just someone who loves a good binge, this show helps you see what’s on screen in a whole new light. Expect smart conversation, honest recommendations, and insights that connect cinema to real life.  🎬 New episodes every Tuesday. Tune in, think deeply, and binge wisely.

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