Frederick Wiseman’s long career exploring the functions of American institutions continues with his recent City Hall. On this episode, we contrast it with Ex Libris, considering how Wiseman’s films differ when looking at systems which function well and systems which are not working.
Orla Smith podcast
Ep. 66: Francis Lee’s God’s Own Country and Ammonite
We loved Francis Lee’s debut film God’s Own Country, so much so that we wrote about a book about it. In this episode we discussed God’s Own Country and Ammonite, two films that are somewhat the antithesis of each other, to uncover how they explore class, sex, intimacy, and labour.
Ep. 65: Comparing Rebecca adaptations
Why a new Rebecca adaptation now? We try to figure it out, discussing actor choices, character agency, and pandering to modern audiences.
Ep. 64: Lockdown Film School with Alice Winocour
This episode presents our Lockdown Film School master class with writer-director Alice Winocour in podcast form. We discuss her three features including the recently released Proxima, her writing process, and her cinematic interest in the body.
Ep. 61: The Riot Club and What Richard Did: Toxic male privilege
On this week’s episode, we discuss Riot Club and What Richard Did, two of our favourite films from the past decade about the lack of consequences rich, young, white men face for horrific behaviour
Ep. 60: Old Vic In Camera Productions: Three Kings and Faith Healer
In this episode, we discuss the two latest Old Vic In Camera productions, Three Kings and Faith Healer. The podcast considers acting for the camera on stage, the very talented Andrew Scott, and the future productions we would like to see.