Film History Podcasts

No Such Thing As A Fish

No Such Thing As A Fish

Ever wonder why some rats dream of travel, or how a Victorian parlor game transformed into the modern personality questionnaire? Welcome to No Such Thing As A Fish, the podcast where the world’s most eccentric, bizarre, and downright fascinating facts collide. Hosted by a team of researchers who spend their lives scouring the depths of human knowledge, each episode is a high-energy romp through the obscure corners of history, science, and pop culture. Whether they are dissecting the oddities of professional horse sheath cleaning, debating the architectural ingenuity of Barbra Streisand’s private basement mall, or investigating the historical obsession with Victorian hats, the hosts manage to make the most surreal topics feel essential. You will find a perfect blend of rigorous research and lighthearted banter, often joined by special guests who bring their own unique curiosities to the table. For those who crave even more, the Little Fish bonus episodes offer a delightful community-focused experience, where listener-submitted trivia takes center stage. From the physics of air pressure to the strange mating habits of spiny anteaters, the show celebrates the sheer weirdness of our planet. It is an intellectual playground for the perpetually curious, proving that the more you know, the more you realize that truth is always stranger—and funnier—than fiction. Pull up a chair and prepare to become the most interesting person at any dinner party.

The Rewatchables

The Ringer

If you have ever found yourself stopping on a movie channel to watch the same film for the tenth time, you have found your new home. The Rewatchables is a weekly deep dive into the movies that we just cannot turn off. Hosted by Bill Simmons and an rotating crew of recurring guests including Chris Ryan, Sean Fennessey, and an array of talented filmmakers and writers, the show deconstructs the films that hold a permanent spot in our cultural lexicon. Whether they are revisiting high-octane 90s thrillers, iconic comedies that defined a generation, or sprawling historical epics, the hosts bring an infectious energy to every conversation. The format is part film criticism, part nostalgia trip, and part rigorous analysis. You will hear them break down legendary breakout performances, debate the absurdity of plot holes, identify the most memorable character entrances, and assign their own signature award categories to the scenes and tropes that stick with us long after the credits roll. The podcast excels at exploring the intersection of art and entertainment, examining why certain movies endure while others fade away. From the technical mastery of directors like Stanley Kubrick to the peculiar charms of good-bad cinema, the discussions are always thoughtful, hilarious, and deeply personal. It is the perfect listen for anyone who treats movies like old friends—films you can revisit indefinitely and somehow always find something new to love.

How Did This Get Made?

Earwolf and Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, Jason Mantzoukas

Have you ever watched a movie so baffling, poorly constructed, or unintentionally hilarious that you had to ask yourself, How did this get made? You are not alone. Join hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas as they embrace the disaster, taking a deep dive into the absolute worst, most bizarre, and frequently unwatchable films in cinematic history. Each episode acts as a comedic autopsy. The hosts and their rotating cast of hilarious guests dissect every questionable decision, from nonsensical plot holes and cartoonish physics to bizarre casting choices and catastrophic scripts. Whether they are tackling high-budget action flops, confusing indie experiments, or forgotten genre relics, the team leaves no stone unturned. You will hear them marvel at everything from 1990s rollerblading aesthetics to the strange, low-stakes tension of extreme sports thrillers. The show is more than just a roast; it is an investigation into the creative failures and eccentric artistic choices that result in movie-making madness. With recurring segments like Last Looks—where the panel revisits listener feedback, corrections, and fascinating behind-the-scenes trivia—the podcast evolves into a sprawling, interactive journey. It is a celebration of the absurdity of show business and a reminder that, sometimes, the most entertaining part of a movie isn't the story on screen, but the utter confusion it leaves behind. If you love dissecting pop culture disasters with infectious, unfiltered energy, this is your ultimate cinematic companion.

Museum of Pop Culture with Josh Widdicombe

Keep It Light Media

Welcome to the Museum of Pop Culture with Josh Widdicombe, your audio gallery for the most fascinating, bizarre, and ambitious stories from the world of entertainment. Hosted by comedian Josh Widdicombe, this show is a deep dive into the cultural milestones that shaped our collective memory. Whether it is the legendary chaos behind the making of Apocalypse Now, the baffling rise and fall of the Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark musical, or the enduring Aussie charm of Neighbours, Josh and his guests peel back the layers on projects that define the thin line between creative genius and absolute catastrophe. The podcast operates as a multi-part detective series for pop culture junkies. You will not just hear the headlines; you will get the full, unfiltered story—from the technical nightmares and safety hazards of Broadway’s most expensive failures to the intense psychological toll of filming in the Philippine jungle. By blending historical trivia with sharp wit and a healthy dose of nostalgia, the show examines the socio-political climates, the artistic ego, and the massive risks that fuel our favorite (and most infamous) cultural icons. If you have ever wondered how a global sensation starts or why a massive project crumbles under its own weight, step inside the museum. It is informative, hilarious, and the perfect place to obsess over the stories behind the screen.

You're Wrong About

Sarah Marshall

Have you ever wondered why our collective memory of history feels more like a highlight reel of rumors, pop culture, and half-truths? You’re Wrong About invites you to take a second look at the people, events, and phenomena that have been miscast, misunderstood, or unfairly villainized in the public imagination. Each week, the show acts as a corrective lens for the past. Whether it is dissecting the conspiracy-laden aftermath of the JFK assassination, peeling back the layers of femininity and systemic policing in the history of women’s baseball, or finding the profound scientific and poetic wonder hidden inside the humble rainbow, this podcast refuses to accept the standard version of the story. The format is conversational and deeply researched, often featuring insightful guests who help strip away the cartoonish versions of history we have been fed. By examining everything from the structural failures of government to the cultural expectations placed on women in sports, the show explores how narratives are shaped—and why we are so prone to believing them. It is not just a trip down memory lane; it is a critical, often humorous, and always thoughtful investigation into how our modern distrust of institutions and our attachment to myths develop over time. If you enjoy untangling complex historical webs and finding the human reality behind the headlines, this is your new essential listen.

WHAT WENT WRONG

Sad Boom Media

Ever wonder why some of your favorite blockbusters feel a little off, or how a surefire hit managed to crash and burn at the box office? Welcome to What Went Wrong, the show where hosts Chris Winterbauer and Lizzie Bassett pull back the curtain on the chaotic, fascinating, and often bizarre production histories of legendary cinema. Instead of just recapping plots, this podcast digs into the friction behind the scenes. From the ego clashes and creative compromises that shaped films like The 13th Warrior and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom to the industry biases that hindered gems like Tank Girl, we explore the precarious journey from script to screen. We examine how visionary directors navigate studio interference, the risks of adapting beloved literature, and the unpredictable alchemy of casting that can make or break a legacy. Our episodes offer a blend of deep-dive film criticism and historical investigation. Whether we are dissecting the evolution of disaster tropes in Spielberg films, tracing the cultural ripple effects of movies like My Big Fat Greek Wedding, or untangling the ethical complexities of true-crime adaptations, we aim to uncover the human stories behind the lens. Join us as we celebrate the triumphs, dissect the failures, and reveal how the industry’s greatest masterclasses and most notable misfires all came to be. It is the perfect deep dive for anyone who loves movies and the messy, complicated realities of making them.

The Big Picture

The Ringer

Welcome to The Big Picture, your essential companion for navigating the ever-shifting landscape of modern cinema. Hosted by Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins, this show goes beyond the surface of the latest releases to explore the craft, business, and cultural pulse of Hollywood. Whether they are dissecting the latest blockbuster, debating the death of a genre, or unpacking the legacy of an industry legend, the hosts bring a deep, analytical passion to every conversation. Expect a dynamic mix of formats that keep the discussion fresh and unpredictable. You will find everything from thoughtful deep dives into the filmographies of icons like Steven Spielberg, Mel Brooks, and Diane Keaton to the high-stakes entertainment of annual movie drafts and mid-year rankings. The program thrives on a lively rapport, often featuring a rotating cast of sharp, knowledgeable guests who help broaden the scope of the conversation. The Big Picture is for the fan who wants more than just a review; it is for those who care about how the sausage is made—from the corporate maneuvering behind the scenes to the evolution of storytelling in an era dominated by franchises, horror, and tech-driven production. If you love dissecting why certain films resonate, why others fail, and how our cinematic history informs the future of the big screen, you have found your home. Join the debate, celebrate the craft, and stay updated on the movies that define our current moment.

Club Random with Bill Maher

Bill Maher

Step inside the inner circle of Club Random, where Bill Maher trades his televised political commentary for a seat at the bar with some of the most fascinating figures in culture. This podcast strips away the polished, high-pressure veneer of traditional talk shows, replacing them with unscripted, long-form conversations that feel like late-night exchanges among old friends. Whether he is sitting down with legendary musicians like Sheryl Crow and Paul Anka, comedy icons such as Jerry Seinfeld and Jeff Dunham, or polarizing figures navigating public life, Maher prioritizes authentic connection over soundbites. The beauty of the show lies in its refusal to adhere to a rigid agenda. Episodes meander through the deep history of show business, the relentless nature of fame, and the personal philosophies that keep creative people grounded. Recurring themes—such as the importance of intellectual independence, the nuanced complexities of aging, and the value of civil disagreement in a fractured world—thread through every discussion. You will hear artists dissect the mechanics of their craft, celebrities reflect on their most turbulent chapters, and two people simply trying to make sense of a rapidly evolving modern culture. With a focus on honesty and off-the-cuff candor, Club Random offers an intimate, unpredictable look at the people who have shaped our cultural landscape, proving that the best stories are the ones told without a script.

You Must Remember This

Karina Longworth

For anyone who suspects that the glossy surface of Tinseltown hides a far more complex reality, You Must Remember This is essential listening. Hosted, written, and produced by film historian Karina Longworth, this podcast serves as a deep dive into the hidden, scandalous, and often misunderstood history of Hollywood’s first century. Rather than simply reciting facts, Longworth treats each episode as a meticulously researched piece of creative nonfiction, peeling back layers of institutional spin and celebrity mythology to uncover the messy truths beneath the screen magic. The show excels at placing legendary figures and notorious moments into their proper social context. Whether examining the transgressive, shock-filled career of an outsider like John Waters or tracing the personal resilience required for performers like Rosie Perez to navigate an industry built on systemic pressures, the series constantly bridges the gap between past and present. You will find recurring themes of identity, the struggle for artistic legitimacy, and the human cost of stardom. Longworth’s narrative style is immersive and forensic, guiding listeners through the conflicting reports and rumors that have defined pop culture for decades. If you are interested in the evolution of cinema, the persistence of the cult filmmaker, or the gritty backstories of those who shaped the movies we love, this podcast offers a thoughtful, provocative look at the human lives behind the flickering lights of the silver screen.

Blank Check with Griffin & David

Blank Check Productions

Blank 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.

HOLLYWOODLAND

Exactly Right and iHeartPodcasts

Hollywoodland is where the glitz of the silver screen meets the grim reality of the police blotter. This podcast peels back the curtain on movie history to reveal that the most compelling stories aren't always found in the script, but in the dark, true-crime tragedies that unfolded behind the scenes. From the studio-mandated addictions that ravaged icons like Judy Garland to the eerie, real-life mysteries surrounding the deaths of legends like James Dean and Bob Crane, the show explores how the machinery of Hollywood has long thrived on—and occasionally destroyed—its most beloved stars. Hosted by Jake Brennan and Zeth Lundy, the podcast offers a cinematic approach to audio storytelling. Each week, the show delivers a trifecta of content: deep-dive narrative episodes that examine the intersection of fame and scandal, interactive wrap-party discussions that invite listeners into the conversation, and screening room episodes that dissect classic and contemporary films. Whether analyzing the gritty underworld that inspired modern classics, investigating high-stakes heists like the theft of the ruby slippers, or celebrating the unlikely redemption arcs of actors who escaped the criminal life, Hollywoodland treats every episode like a blockbuster. It is an essential listen for film buffs and true-crime devotees alike, blending historical investigation with a deep appreciation for the art of cinema. Step inside and discover the stories that make Hollywood more than just a destination—it is a landscape of obsession, vanity, and mystery.

Bandsplain

The Ringer

Ever wondered how a specific artist shifted the course of pop culture, or why a band with only one album became a cult phenomenon? Bandsplain is the ultimate deep dive into the artists we love, the ones who shaped our musical landscape, and the hidden histories that make them legends. Host Yasi Salek leads the charge, bringing in a rotating roster of experts, journalists, and fellow musicians to dissect the careers of music’s most iconic figures and overlooked gems alike. Whether the show is pulling back the curtain on a massive, multi-part retrospective—like a sprawling, career-spanning examination of Madonna’s evolution from club kid to global superstar—or introducing listeners to the jagged, percussive genius of a short-lived band like Life Without Buildings, the approach is always forensic, enthusiastic, and refreshingly candid. Each episode goes beyond the surface-level hits, exploring the creative tensions, personal milestones, and cultural shifts that define an artist’s legacy. Bandsplain thrives on the nuance of the craft, looking at everything from the gritty aesthetics of 80s cinema to the intricate dynamics of behind-the-scenes collaborations. If you are looking for a show that treats music history with both rigorous research and the excited energy of a late-night conversation between superfans, this is your new go-to. It is essential listening for anyone who wants to understand the human beings behind the albums we have played on repeat for years.

Unspooled

Paul Scheer & Amy Nicholson | Realm

Join actor and comedian Paul Scheer and film critic Amy Nicholson as they pull back the curtain on the movies that define our culture. Unspooled is a deep-dive celebration of cinema that goes far beyond the surface-level review. Each week, the hosts dissect a new selection—ranging from massive Hollywood blockbusters and high-stakes action sequels to misunderstood cult classics and poignant gems of girlhood. What sets Unspooled apart is the willingness to challenge the canon. By bringing in a rotating cast of sharp-witted guests like Ed Helms, Jorma Taccone, and Joanna Robinson, the show transforms into a lively roundtable where movies are reconsidered through a modern lens. Whether they are uncovering why a box-office flop like Josie and the Pussycats was actually a genius piece of social satire or debating the transition of a film franchise into a full-blown spectacle, the discussions are always fueled by curiosity and expert insight. The podcast explores the intersection of art, industry, and personal nostalgia. You will hear about the grueling production hurdles behind Steven Spielberg’s masterpieces, the evolution of childhood favorites when revisited as adults, and the specific craft that makes a comedy truly stand the test of time. If you love dissecting iconic scenes, uncovering behind-the-scenes trivia, and debating whether your favorite films still hold up today, Unspooled is the ultimate companion for your cinematic journey. Turn up the volume and get ready to see the movies you know in a whole new light.

DISGRACELAND

Exactly Right and iHeartPodcasts

Music history is rarely as clean as the liner notes suggest. DISGRACELAND pulls back the curtain on the world of legendary musicians to reveal the chaos, crime, and controversy lurking in the shadows of their fame. Host Jake Brennan masterfully blends true crime storytelling with rock-and-roll history, exploring the lives of icons ranging from Jim Morrison and Wendy O. Williams to George Jones and Jennifer Hudson. Whether examining the mysterious death of a Doors frontman, the dark inspirations behind Lana Del Rey’s songwriting, or the gritty streets of New York that forged legends like Sonic Youth, this show proves that the line between art and reality is often dangerously thin. Episodes serve as an immersive look into the psychological turmoil, substance abuse, and shocking transgressions that have defined—and sometimes destroyed—the greatest performers in history. The format is as dynamic as the stories themselves. You will find deeply researched, scripted deep dives that treat music history like a suspense thriller, alongside bonus installments that feature neighborhood walking tours, personal anecdotes, and a constant dialogue with a devoted fanbase. DISGRACELAND isn’t just about the music; it’s about the reckless, brilliant, and often tragic human beings who created it. If you have ever wondered what happens when immense talent meets total nonconformity, this is your backstage pass into the stories the industry would rather keep buried. Turn it up and get ready for the truth.

Today In History with The Retrospectors

The Retrospectors

Ever wondered why we use forks, how the Tour de France was born from a marketing stunt, or what really happened to the children of Hamlin? Every day, Olly Mann, Rebecca Messina, and Arion McNicoll invite you to turn back the clock and uncover the strange, surprising, and often misunderstood origins of the world around us. In just ten minutes, The Retrospectors take a deep dive into a specific date in history, pulling back the curtain on iconic cultural milestones and peculiar historical footnotes alike. Whether they are deconstructing the gritty, political roots of Pinocchio, tracing the evolution of thrill-seeking from early pleasure gardens to modern rollercoasters, or exploring the serendipitous meeting that sparked the creation of The Beatles, no topic is off-limits. What makes this show stand out is the hosts' ability to separate myth from reality. They expertly dismantle long-held misconceptions—such as the supposedly epic "clash of the titans" between Darwinists and the clergy—while illuminating the human experiences behind historical events. Through a lens that is as witty as it is scholarly, the team explores how our past informs our present, revealing the surprising connections that link medieval migration to modern marketing and silent-era cinema to artificial intelligence. It is the perfect daily companion for the curious mind, offering a dose of historical discovery that is as entertaining as it is insightful.

With Gourley And Rust

Matt Gourley and Paul Rust

Step into the world of horror cinema with With Gourley And Rust, where hosts Matt Gourley and Paul Rust bring a refreshing, thoughtful, and often humorous perspective to the genre's most iconic franchises. Far from your average film review show, this podcast treats horror as a serious subject for deep analysis while maintaining an inviting, conversational atmosphere that feels like chatting with two old friends about your favorite movies. Whether they are unpacking the visceral, slow-burn terror of a masterpiece like The Exorcist or dissecting the bizarre, dreamlike failure of a sequel like Exorcist II: The Heretic, Matt and Paul excel at finding the hidden textures within these films. They examine everything from the evolution of supernatural legends and production lore to the subtle shifts in tone and design that separate legendary hits from fascinating cinematic anomalies. The show stands out for its unique blend of academic curiosity and genuine enthusiasm. You won't just hear a summary of the plot; you will get a masterclass on how these movies function as psychological thrillers, the significance of their atmospheric settings, and why even the most divisive films in a series are worth a second look. By pairing deep-dive critiques with personal anecdotes and a deep respect for the craft of filmmaking, With Gourley And Rust is an essential listen for anyone who loves to peel back the layers of the horror genre.

The Official Deaf Crocodile Podcast

Someone's Favorite Productions

Dive deep into the fascinating world of physical media and cult cinema with The Official Deaf Crocodile Podcast. This show serves as the ultimate companion for cinephiles who are passionate about the restoration, preservation, and discovery of overlooked gems from around the globe. Whether you are a long-time collector or a newcomer to the world of international genre cinema, this podcast offers an intimate look at the stories behind the releases. The episodes pull back the curtain on the label’s mission, providing behind-the-scenes insights into the acquisition and curation process. You will hear from the team members themselves as they discuss the challenges of bringing rare films to a modern audience, along with thoughtful commentary tracks and deep-dive interviews with composers, film historians, and artists. The show often explores the historical and cultural context of European cinema, with a particular focus on the unique landscapes of Czech and Yugoslavian film. Expect a conversational atmosphere where hosts bridge the gap between technical preservation and pure movie-lover enthusiasm. From discussions on the artistry of silent film scoring to explorations of eclectic genre-bending classics, the podcast celebrates the creative spirit that brings these forgotten masterpieces back to life. Subscribe to join a growing community of enthusiasts, stay updated on upcoming archival restorations, and gain a richer appreciation for the films that continue to shape our cinematic landscape.

Nightmare on Film Street - A Horror Movie Podcast

Kimberley Elizabeth & Jonathan Dehaan

Welcome to Nightmare on Film Street, your ultimate destination for everything that goes bump in the night. If you live for the thrill of a good scare and love dissecting the inner workings of horror cinema, you have found your people. Each week, our hosts dive deep into the genre, balancing the cinematic landscape between time-honored classics and the latest, most chilling theatrical releases. Our discussions are anything but superficial. Whether we are revisiting the roots of the slasher subgenre with an atmospheric deep dive into the Friday the 13th franchise, uncovering the hidden gems of international horror, or breaking down the bizarre mechanics of contemporary creepypasta adaptations, we bring curiosity and infectious enthusiasm to every frame. We don't just recap films; we explore the production secrets, the practical effects that define visceral scares, and the thematic layers that elevate a simple ghost story into a cultural phenomenon. From the campy, experimental fun of 1950s haunted houses to the disturbing body horror of modern indie debuts, our show thrives on lively debate and heartfelt analysis. We are not afraid to be critical of pacing issues or narrative flaws, but our goal is always to celebrate the movies that haunt our dreams. Join us as we unpack the skeletons in the closet of horror history, one film at a time. It is going to be a wild, terrifying ride, and we are thrilled to have you along for the nightmare.

Junkfood Cinema

Brian Salisbury

Welcome to Junkfood Cinema, the ultimate audio destination for those who find beauty in the bizarre, the campy, and the forgotten corners of film history. Hosted by critic Brian Salisbury and Marvel Studios screenwriter C. Robert Cargill, this show treats cult cinema with the same intellectual rigor and deep respect usually reserved for high-brow awards contenders. Whether they are tackling the glitzy, high-budget failures of the 1980s, underground creature features, or gritty exploitation classics, the hosts provide a comprehensive look at what makes these films endure. Each episode is a deep dive that goes far beyond simple nostalgia. By pulling back the curtain on chaotic production histories—from studio interference and legendary producer schemes to the raw, substance-fueled energy of independent sets—the show offers a fascinating look at the industry’s inner workings. You will hear expert analysis on how genre tropes are subverted, how early experimental cinematography paved the way for modern blockbusters, and why certain "failed" movies remain essential viewing for any true cinephile. With a mix of sharp critical insight, personal anecdotes, and lively detours into pop culture, Junkfood Cinema transforms the way you view the movies you love to hate. It is an engaging, funny, and shamelessly passionate celebration of the weird, wonderful world of movies that deserve to be revisited.

Awards Chatter

The Hollywood Reporter

Go behind the velvet rope and into the minds of the people who shape the culture of cinema. Awards Chatter, hosted by Scott Feinberg, offers an unparalleled look at the creative forces driving the entertainment industry. Rather than standard promotional interviews, this podcast serves as a deep-dive repository for the history of film, featuring comprehensive, long-form conversations with the legends, auteurs, and critical voices who define the medium. Whether sitting down with an iconic cinematographer like Robert Richardson or dissecting the lifelong observations of a prolific historian like David Thomson, Feinberg strips away the surface-level industry talk. Instead, the show focuses on the formation of artistic identity, the evolution of technical craft, and the personal experiences that drive career-defining work. Episodes often explore how humble beginnings, academic influences, and even personal challenges—such as overcoming a childhood stammer or shifting from oceanography to filmmaking—ultimately fueled a pursuit of creative excellence. You will hear firsthand accounts of collaborations with industry giants, insights into the intuitive processes behind award-winning visuals, and provocative arguments about how cinema mirrors our shifting societal landscape. If you are looking for an intimate, thought-provoking examination of what it truly takes to master the craft of storytelling, Awards Chatter provides an essential, scholarly, and deeply human perspective on the people behind the silver screen.