IndieWire: Screen Talk

I really enjoy Screen Talk. The industry insights, the banter, the inside baseball stuff - it’s all great. But for the love of God, please remember that most of your audience hasn’t seen half of these movies yet before casually dropping major/minir story beats like you’re reading from the Wikipedia plot summary. You guys just flippantly spoiled key moments from both Marty Supreme and The Perfect Neighbor - the latter not just vague details, but literally the fates of both main parties. C’mon. I’ll keep listening (because I’ve been with you two for awhile now), but let’s just say it’ll be with slightly gritted teeth until you remember that maybe 99% of us are still waiting for these films to actually release. A little spoiler awareness goes a long way!

I enjoy the discussions and topics. The hosts clearly know what they’re talking about. They provide interesting and unique takes and points garnished with in-depth insights. However, sometimes they are terrible podcast hosts. It feels at times like their desks face each other at work and after constantly arguing/debating/discussing films as they peck out/edit copy for IW, someone decided to grab an iPhone, record them and upload it as a podcast. The hosts can get so wrapped up in their conversation that they fail to be good podcast hosts, e.g., they do things like talk about a movie, mention the awards it won at specific festivals, name the director, provide nuggets about his personal life and previous movies, but then totally leave out the name of the movie! Plus, the audio could be better. It was an improvement switching out the hosts though. It diminished the frustration factor a bit. They clearly have the knowledge and ability to discuss film, they should now focus on improving or expanding their abilities as solid “podcast hosts”.

Granted, I do skip over most or many of the interviews, but Thompson and Lattanzio provide outstanding perspectives and analyses on a consistent basis. Their top movies of the ‘70s episode is great, and such an intelligent rejoinder to IndieWire’s own…odd in-house list. (Was particularly happy for the callouts to Klute and, surprise, Interiors.) Great podcast hosts.

Anne Thompson has a way with words such that she can lull you into trusting nearly everything she says. Thompson has years of experience in the covering the Oscar race and this podcast is the perfect platform for her. Thompson’s co-pilot Ryan Lattanzio serves as an interesting foil, providing a younger perspective with a flair for LGBTQ+ content.