Film Stories with Simon Brew
Film, TV & Pop Culture
About
Film Stories with Simon Brew is a podcast that looks to dig into the stories behind popular movies.From troubled productions, to rights issues, to difficulties with release to films nearly falling apart, the podcast will be looking at the stories that don't always seem apparent when watching a movie!The podcast is hosted by Simon Brew, the founder of Den Of Geek. Support the podcast at www.patreon.com/simonbrew. Thank you!
Episodes
- Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines (2003), and one hell of a challenge to secure the Terminator rights
This episode discusses the production of Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines, focusing on the difficulties in securing the film rights and the evolving involvement of James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- Contact (1997) and how it nearly fell apart, plus David Frankel on The Devil Wears Prada 2
This episode recounts the 20-year journey to bring Carl Sagan's "Contact" to the screen, including director changes. It also features an interview with filmmaker David Frankel about "The Devil Wears Prada 2" and his Oscar-winning short fil…
- Cape Fear (1991), and when Martin Scorsese read it three times and hated it
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew delves into the 1991 film Cape Fear, exploring Martin Scorsese's initial reservations about the project, Robert De Niro's tattoos, and Nick Nolte not being recognized at the Goodfellas premiere.…
- Dick Tracy (1990), along with the strange trick to hold onto its rights
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew discusses the 1990 film Dick Tracy, its extensive development period, and the marketing strategies influenced by the success of Batman. It also explores the film's unexpected link to the creatio…
- Wild Wild West (1999), plus how it affected The Matrix and The Iron Giant
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew delves into the 1999 film Wild Wild West, exploring its production and the casting decisions that affected other movies like The Matrix and The Iron Giant. Simon Brew examines the choices made b…
- In conversation with Paul Feig - The Housemaid, Bridesmaids at the Oscars, Ghostbusters and more
Paul Feig returns to the Film Stories podcast to discuss various projects, including "The Housemaid", "Bridesmaids" at the Oscars, and "Ghostbusters". He also touches upon efforts to develop "Spy 2" and a "Play-doh" movie idea.
- In conversation with David Mackenzie | Fuze, Relay, Hell Or High Water, Starred Up, AI and more
Director David Mackenzie talks about his new film Fuze and other projects like Young Adam, Starred Up, and Hell Or High Water. The conversation also covers his plans for future films.
- Judge Dredd (1995), and the long battle to get it made
This episode recounts the long development process of the 1995 film "Judge Dredd," detailing early attempts and the eventual involvement of Sylvester Stallone and director Danny Cannon.
- In conversation with Radio Silence - Ready Or Not 2, Sega Dreamcast, Samara Weaving and more
Filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett of Radio Silence discuss their new film, Ready Or Not 2, and touch on other films such as Abigail and Devil's Due. They also mention the Sega Dreamcast console during their conversation wi…
- X-Men (2000), and how it changed superhero cinema
This episode delves into the making of the 2000 film X-Men, highlighting its impact on superhero cinema. It covers production gambles, behind-the-scenes problems, and casting challenges.
- In conversation with Christopher Miller and Phil Lord | Project Hail Mary, Rocky IV, Geostorm 2 and more
Simon Brew interviews Christopher Miller and Phil Lord about their work, including Project Hail Mary and the Rocky film series. They discuss choosing projects and other topics.
- The Postman (1997) and Wag The Dog (1997) | Two films. The same weekend. Very different reputations
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew discusses the 1997 films The Postman and Wag The Dog. It covers the production challenges, critical reception, and unexpected headlines surrounding both movies.
- In conversation with Drew Goddard | A very nerdy film chat
In this episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew, Simon Brew interviews Oscar-nominated screenwriter Drew Goddard. They discuss Goddard's work on various films, including Project Hail Mary, The Martian, Bad Times at the El Royale, and Cabin…
- Joker (2019) and Cat's Eye (1985) | Two lower budget films, only one grossed a billion
This episode discusses the production of Joker (2019) and Cat's Eye (1985). It covers the challenges faced during their development, such as financing problems and studio direction changes, and their eventual release.
- Kevin Costner's Horizon project and where it's up to, plus Andrew Stanton
This episode delves into the history and current progress of Kevin Costner's multi-part Western film project, Horizon. Additionally, director Andrew Stanton joins Simon Brew to talk about his film In The Blink Of An Eye, along with other t…
- Eyes Wide Shut (1999) and Maybe Baby (2000) | The never-ending shoot, and Ben Elton's directorial debut
This episode discusses the production challenges of Stanley Kubrick's "Eyes Wide Shut" and Ben Elton's directorial debut, "Maybe Baby." It covers the extended filming of Kubrick's last film and a casting issue for Elton's movie.
- What on earth is film 'testing'? | A podcast special, with Kevin Goetz
Kevin Goetz joins Simon Brew to discuss the process of film testing, including concept testing and its influence on movie production. He shares insights from his book, "How To Score In Hollywood."
- Hulk (2003), plus the ongoing sequel problem
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew discusses Ang Lee's 2003 film Hulk, starring Eric Bana. It examines the film's origins in Marvel's 1990s screen rights deals and its subsequent sequel issues.
- The Untouchables (1987), plus the prequel movie that never was
This episode discusses the making of Brian De Palma's 1987 crime drama The Untouchables, covering early casting ideas and how a famous scene was developed. It also touches on the abandoned prequel movie, Capone Rising.
- In conversation with director Angel Manuel Soto | The Wrecking Crew, Blue Beetle, toilet roll
Director Angel Manuel Soto talks about his film career, from growing up in Puerto Rico to directing "The Wrecking Crew" and "Blue Beetle." This episode also touches on a detail involving "loo roll."
- Fatal Attraction (1987), plus a very nerdy chat with Sam Raimi
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew discusses the production of Fatal Attraction, including its development and ending controversies. It also features an interview with Sam Raimi, covering various film topics.
- In conversation with Ric Roman Waugh | Shelter, Statham, the freezing cold and more
Ric Roman Waugh speaks with Simon Brew about his latest film, Shelter, and other works such as Greenland and Kandahar. They also discuss a personal connection between their fathers.
- Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) and Educating Rita (1983) | A mighty messy Star Wars production
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew discusses the production of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," highlighting its difficult production and reshoots. It also covers "Educating Rita," detailing the journey to bring the hit play to th…
- Paint Your Wagon (1969), and Dexter Fletcher on The Elephant Man and more
This episode delves into the production of the 1969 film Paint Your Wagon, highlighting its unique casting with Lee Marvin and Clint Eastwood. Additionally, Dexter Fletcher joins the show to talk about his work in David Lynch's The Elephan…
- In conversation with Tiff Stevenson | Movies, and featuring in a film that shouldn't be any good
Tiff Stevenson, comedian and actor, joins Simon Brew on Film Stories to discuss her role in the horror slasher film "Slotherhouse." They also delve into various other movie discussions during the chat.
- Almost Famous (2000) and Cellular (2004) | A box office stumble, and an underappreciated action thriller
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew covers two films: Cameron Crowe's "Almost Famous," detailing its box office performance and subsequent recognition, and the action thriller "Cellular," highlighting its cast and director. The di…
- In conversation with writer/director Craig Brewer
Craig Brewer joins Simon Brew to discuss his film career, including the creation of Song Sung Blue, the influence of various films, and his father's impact on his work. They also touch on Hustle & Flow and Rocky IV.
- The Romesh Ranganathan episode (Film Stories 500 celebration live from London)
Film Stories with Simon Brew celebrates its 500th episode with a live recording in London. Romesh Ranganathan joins Simon Brew to discuss his cinema career and movies.
- In conversation with Chris Chibnall | Seven Dials, White Hart, Doctor Who, 80s computer games, Jasper Carrot and more
In this episode, Chris Chibnall discusses his novel "Death At The White Hart," the Netflix adaptation of Agatha Christie's "Seven Dials," and other topics including "Doctor Who," 80s computer games, and Jasper Carrott. He shares insights i…
- Rocky IV (1985) and Rocky IV Rocky vs Drago The Ultimate Director's Cut (2021)
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew discusses the making of Rocky IV (1985), including its challenges and the role of Dolph Lundgren. It also covers Sylvester Stallone's decision to create a new version, titled Rocky IV Rocky vs D…
- Fackham Hall | Writing a spoof, the bizarre CG pig sex, and the Dawson Brothers tell us their story
The episode features The Dawson Brothers, writers of the spoof movie Fackham Hall. They discuss the process of writing a spoof movie and the challenges involved, as well as details about specific scenes in the film.
- The Polar Express (2004) and its initial box office stumble, plus James L Brooks
This episode discusses the making of The Polar Express (2004), its initial box office stumble, and the technology used in its production. It also features an interview with writer, producer, and director James L. Brooks about his new film,…
- In conversation with filmmaker Dan Cadan. Including how much he got paid for one line in Die Another Day
Dan Cadan joins Simon Brew on Film Stories to discuss his career, including collaborations with figures like Guy Ritchie and Madonna. He also shares insights into the making of his film, Walk Like A Panther, and his experiences in the film…
- The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) - from the 45th most popular film of 1992 to Xmas favourite
This episode discusses the film The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992), directed by Brian Henson, detailing its box office performance as the 45th most popular film of 1992 and the challenges faced during its production after Jim Henson's death.
- In conversation with Yvett Merino (producer) and Jared Bush (director, chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios)
Film Stories with Simon Brew features an interview with Yvett Merino, producer, and Jared Bush, director and chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios. They discuss the new animated movie Zootropolis, including a cut four-min…
- The story of the unmade Die Hard 6, plus an update
This episode recounts the development and eventual cancellation of Die Hard 6, which aimed to bring back Bruce Willis as John McClane and explore his origin story. Len Wiseman was attached to direct this iteration, which was in active deve…
- In conversation with Nathan Crowley - Wicked For Good, Coppola, Nolan, Spielberg, and monkeys
In this episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew, production designer Nathan Crowley discusses his work on various films, including "Wicked," and with directors like Francis Ford Coppola, Christopher Nolan, and Steven Spielberg. He also sha…
- In conversation with Mark Kermode & Jenny Nelson | Recorded live in Birmingham
Simon Brew hosts Mark Kermode and Jenny Nelson in Birmingham to discuss movie music and their new book, 'Mark Kermode's Surround Sound.' The episode includes their conversation and audience questions.
- In conversation with Ruben Fleischer | Now You See Me Now You Don't, Gangster Squad, Venom and more
Ruben Fleischer discusses his latest film, 'Now You See Me Now You Don't', along with other projects like 'Zombieland', 'Gangster Squad', and 'Venom'. He also shares insights into his involvement in these films and some HTML coding.
- Episode 500 celebrations | A long conversation with Kevin Smith
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew celebrates its 500th episode with a conversation with Kevin Smith. They discuss films such as Dogma, Clerks, The 4:30 Movie, and Yoga Hosers, and directors including Christopher Nolan and Martin…
- In conversation with Nicholas Hytner | The Choral, The Madness Of King George, Nigel Hawthorne, Alan Bennett and more
Nicholas Hytner talks about his films, including The Choral, Lady In The Van, and The Madness Of King George. He also discusses working with Alan Bennett, Ralph Fiennes, and Nigel Hawthorne.
- The Prestige (2006), plus Dan Trachtenberg on Predator: Badlands and more
This episode explores Christopher Nolan's film "The Prestige," including its production and how it fit into his career alongside "Batman Begins." Additionally, it features an interview with writer/director Dan Trachtenberg about his work o…
- In conversation with Nia DaCosta | Hedda, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Doctor Who, videogames & more
Nia DaCosta is the guest on Film Stories with Simon Brew. She discusses her film Hedda, the movie 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Doctor Who, videogames, and The Marvels.
- Raging Bull (1980), and Rebecca Miller on Mr Scorsese (2025)
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew focuses on Martin Scorsese, detailing the production of Raging Bull (1980) and featuring an interview with Rebecca Miller about her documentary series "Mr Scorsese." Rebecca Miller discusses the…
- In conversation with Edward Berger | Ballad Of A Small Player, Conclave, and internet passwords
Edward Berger joins Simon Brew to discuss his new film, Ballad Of A Small Player, starring Colin Farrell. He also talks about his career, from German television to his work on All Quiet On The Western Front and Conclave. Ballad Of A Small…
- Scream (1996) and Skyline (2010)
This episode recounts the production histories of "Scream" (1996) and "Skyline" (2010). It details Kevin Williamson's "Scream" script and the directorial search, as well as the Strause brothers' journey from visual effects to directing "Sk…
- In conversation with Phil Johnston - The Twits, Wreck-It Ralph, Cedar Rapids and more
In this episode, Phil Johnston shares his experiences in filmmaking, including the development of The Twits, his Oscar-nominated work on Wreck-It Ralph and Ralph Breaks the Internet, and the movie Cedar Rapids. He discusses the struggles f…
- Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989) and Doctor Who (2010s unmade movie)
This episode of Film Stories with Simon Brew delves into the production challenges of Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, including a distributor's bankruptcy and casting details. It also discusses an unmade Doctor Who movie from the early 2…
- In conversation with David Zucker | Top Secret, Airplane, The Naked Gun, The Star Of Malta, books, and more
David Zucker joins Simon Brew to discuss his career, including films like Airplane!, Top Secret!, and The Naked Gun. He also talks about his books, his exclusion from a Naked Gun film, and other projects.
- Top Gun (1986), plus Embeth Davidtz
This episode explores the production challenges of the 1986 film Top Gun, including cast and studio issues. Additionally, Embeth Davidtz discusses her writing and directing project, \'Don't Let's Go To The Dogs Tonight\', and its developme…