Blank Check with Griffin & David
Blank Check Productions
SummaryBlank Check with Griffin and David is a deep-dive film podcast that examines the careers of directors who have been granted a rare level of creative freedom—their own proverbial blank check—from a major studio. Hosted by actor Griffin Newman and critic David Sims, each miniseries focuses on a specific filmmaker’s entire body of work, tracing their trajectory from early passion projects to the massive spectacles that defined their legacies. Whether they are dissecting the high-seas historical detail of Peter Weir’s Master and Commander, exploring the thematic depth of Pixar’s animation through the lens of Andrew Stanton, or analyzing the shifting landscape of Steven Spielberg’s modern output, the hosts offer a mix of rigorous scholarly criticism and infectious enthusiasm. The show excels at balancing historical context with the tangible realities of how movies get made, frequently questioning the tension between artistic vision and corporate mandates. What truly sets the show apart is the chemistry between the hosts and their eclectic roster of guests, which includes critics, filmmakers, and comedians. These conversations often veer into humorous tangents, internet lore, and personal anecdotes, making the technical analysis of film craft feel like an engaging chat among friends. It is the perfect listen for anyone interested in the nuance of movie history, the mechanics of the industry, and the stories behind the films that shaped our modern cinematic culture.
Updated Jul 5, 2026
Episodes
John Carter with Matt Singer
John Carter serves as a historic signpost for the industry’s failed attempts to launch massive sci-fi franchises.
WALL-E with David Ehrlich
A deep dive into the legacy of Pixar and the creative freedom behind the making of the beloved robot romance WALL-E.
Finding Nemo with Rebecca Alter
Rebecca Alter joins the show to discuss Andrew Stanton’s Finding Nemo and the legacy of Pixar’s perfect oceanic hit.
Disclosure Day
An analysis of Steven Spielberg’s Disclosure Day and his enduring ability to deliver character-driven, classic blockbusters.
The Way Back with Alex Ross Perry
Alex Ross Perry joins the show to break down Peter Weir’s grueling survival drama The Way Back.
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World with John Hodgman
John Hodgman joins to examine the meticulous naval procedure and enduring legacy of Peter Weir’s nautical masterpiece.
The Mandalorian and Grogu with Chris Gethard
The Mandalorian and Grogu is a hollow corporate product that refuses to let its characters evolve for the sake of toys.
The Truman Show with J.D. Amato
Peter Weir’s The Truman Show serves as a lens to explore the ethics of documenting reality and our simulated lives.
Picnic at Hanging Rock with Jane Schoenbrun
Critical Darlings: One Battle After Another And Oscar Predictions with David Sims
The Cars That Ate Paris
Critical Darlings: Sinners And The Academy’s Growing Genre Acceptance with Sam Sanders
The Eleventh Annual Blank Check Awards with Joe Reid
Critical Darlings: Sentimental Value and Belated Oscar Breakthroughs with Joe Reid
Die My Love with Alison Willmore
Critical Darlings: The Secret Agent And The Increasingly International Academy
You Were Never Really Here with Sean Clements
Critical Darlings: Frankenstein And The Craft Category Juggernauts with Bilge Ebiri
We Need To Talk About Kevin with Jia Tolentino
Critical Darlings: Bugonia And The (Oscar) Favourites with Marie Bardi-Salinas
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