Excuse the Intermission

Send a text This episode is charged with excitement as we gear up for the 97th Academy Awards. Join us as we delve into the nominations, dissect predictions, and share a few surprises that could shake up the night! From the stunning performances in “Amelia Perez” to the artistic endeavors reflected in “The Brutalist,” we showcase an array of films vying for the coveted Oscars. Not only do we make...

Send a text What if your favorite Best Picture winner isn't all it's cracked up to be? Join us on a cinematic journey as we, Alex McCauley, Max Fosberg, and Erica Kraus, tackle the formidable task of ranking every Best Picture winner since 2000. With Erica's delightfully unpredictable selections leading the way, prepare for some surprises as we debate the hits and misses of the Osca...

Send a text What if Mark Wahlberg's career choices could be mapped like a roller coaster, with highs and lows that keep audiences on the edge of their seats? Join us for a spirited exploration of Wahlberg's diverse filmography, from standout roles like those in "Boogie Nights" and "The Fighter" to the puzzling choices such as "Planet of the Apes." We dive in...

Send a text Unlock the secrets behind Steven Soderbergh’s groundbreaking career and discover how his latest film, "Presence," transcends traditional genres. This episode of "Excuse the Intermission" features Max's spoiler-free impressions and explores the film's extraordinary writing and performances, alongside Soderbergh’s voyeuristic style. We also examine his innov...

Send a text Erica's back with us, and her fresh perspective is the breath of fresh air we all need as we journey through the cinematic wonders of 2025. From the latest James Cameron's Avatar movie to groundbreaking projects by indie directors, we're exploring a colorful mosaic of storytelling magic. We even touch on the latest Academy Award nominations with a dash of humor, especial...

Send a text The world of cinema has lost a true visionary with the passing of David Lynch, and we are here to celebrate his extraordinary legacy. Lynch's films are a masterclass in storytelling, marrying the surreal with the deeply personal, and his influence stretches far beyond the silver screen. Join us as we recount how his work has touched us personally and professionally, particularly h...

Send a text 2024 has proven to be a transformative year for cinema, showcasing a vibrant array of films that span various genres and storytelling styles. In our episode, we share our favorite movies, touching on standout performances in films like "The Substance" and "Civil War," as well as the triumphant return of franchises like "Dune: Part Two" that further solidif...

Send a text Robert Eggers' Nosferatu revives a classic horror tale with a fresh perspective, exploring themes of desire, repression, and the nature of evil. The ensemble cast, particularly Bill Skarsgård and Lily Rose Depp, delivers compelling performances that enrich the film's haunting atmosphere. The episode delves into the film's production aspects, character analysis, and the b...

Send a text Ever paired Nosferatu with Mufasa for Christmas movie day? We're shaking up holiday traditions in our latest episode, where we chat about our festive plans and explore the wacky world of Christmas cringe movies. As we gear up for 2024, we share our excitement over the Criterion Channel's Nicole Kidman collection, and the intriguing seasonal trends we've spotted on platfo...

Send a text Max, Alex and Erica are together again in studio! They cover the 2024 Golden Globes Nominations from surprises, potential winners and snubs. They also went to see the new A24 film from first time director Kyle Mooney, Y2K. This inspired them to create the Personal Period Piece Hall of Fame.         Support the show Max's Letterboxd Alex's Letterboxd ETI Instagram

Send a text Did we underestimate the magic of "Wicked"? Join us as we share our journey from skepticism to surprise with the blockbuster film adaptation of this beloved Broadway classic. We'll unravel the enchanting tale of how "Wicked" became a record-breaking success, surpassing other hits like "Chicago," and compare its narrative depth to that of "The Wiz...

Send a text Get ready for a cinematic showdown unlike any other! We brought on Marcus Baker of the Seattle Film Society to join us as we navigate the excitement, skepticism, and Oscar buzz surrounding Ridley Scott's highly anticipated sequel, Gladiator 2. Marcus shares the latest from his jam-packed schedule, including the Seattle Film Society's Locals Only anniversary and their captivat...

Send a text What's the secret ingredient that could turn your favorite animated film into a Best Picture contender at the Oscars? Join Max, Erica, and a slightly under-the-weather Alex as we navigate the thrilling world of cinema and award predictions, especially focusing on the captivating performances by Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh in "We Live in Time." Erica brings an insig...

Send a text Remember the thrill of neighborhood trick-or-treating and the spooky adventures that came with it? Join us as we reflect on the evolving landscape of Halloween celebrations, reminiscing about the community spirit and excitement that defined our childhoods. Have modern adaptations like trunk-or-treat events stolen Halloween's edge, or are they simply the new norm? We'll explor...

Send a text What makes a horror film unforgettable? With the Halloween season in full swing, we're diving into the eerie, the spine-chilling, and the downright terrifying. Join us as Erica graces our microphones once more, guiding us through the shadows of horror movie recommendations perfect for this spooky time of year. Max shares a serendipitous story about how a chance encounter led him t...

Send a text Ever wondered how casting decisions shape the very essence of a film? In our latest episode, Join Alex, Erica and improviser and theater teacher Salvatore Frattallone joins us for a witty and insightful chat about the art of casting in movies. We reminisce about the nostalgia of Blockbuster nights and childhood favorites like "Land Before Time," revealing how Salvatore's...

Send a text Michele Noble and Farnell Newton invite us into the world of their film, "The Yellow Sponge is the Dish Sponge," as they share their experiences at the Tacoma Film Festival. Discover how the seemingly ordinary act of cleaning becomes a profound exploration of relationship dynamics, enhanced by the festival's welcoming atmosphere. Michele's unique approach, including...

Send a text Imagine capturing the essence of homesickness and nostalgia through the lens of a filmmaker in their own hometown. That's exactly what Brianna Murphy set out to do in Gig Harbor, Washington, alongside her creative partner Julian Doan. We unravel the layers of their filmmaking journey, from using Brianna's parents' home as a set to discovering the mesmerizing summer light...

Send a text What if the power of storytelling could reshape societal structures and preserve cultural legacies? Join us as we uncover the creative processes behind "Wild Dreams" with filmmakers Kwabi Amoa-Foreson and Derek Nunn. These talented directors take us on a journey from the intimate setting of a private screening to the grand stage of the Tacoma Film Festival, where they blend d...

Send a text Unlock the secrets of indie filmmaking and storytelling through our exclusive preview of the 2024 Tacoma Film Festival. Join us, Alex McCauley and Max Flosberg, as we highlight the festival’s unique collaboration between the Grand Cinema and the Blue Mouse Theater, connected by convenient shuttle services for a seamless cinematic experience. We promise an illuminating journey into must...

Send a text Join us on a cinematic adventure with legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola's latest masterpiece, "Megapolis." With special guest Erica Crouse, we explore the film's opening weekend and discuss Coppola's storied career. Erica shares her magical experiences at Disneyland, indulging in Halloween-themed attractions and roller coasters. Together, we muse over th...

Send a text Ever wondered what it takes to direct young actors authentically? Join us as we chat with Rachel Taggart, writer and director of "Hold my Hair," and Joe Carstensen, the script supervisor. Rachel opens up about her unique approach to nurturing young talent, while Joe shares her enlightening first-time experience in a predominantly female film crew. This segment is a must-liste...

Send a text Have you ever wondered what would happen if "Rambo" met "Michael Clayton"? Tune in as we unravel the brilliance of Jeremy Saulnier’s latest thriller "Rebel Ridge." With riveting performances by Aaron Pierre and Don Johnson, we dissect the film’s intricate themes of asset forfeiture, rural corruption, and its thrilling action sequences. This episode isn’t j...

Send a text What if the very essence of politeness could lead you into a nightmarish scenario? Join us for an insightful episode as we compare and contrast the new American thriller "Speak No Evil" with its original Danish source material. With special guest Erica Crouse, we dive into the nuances of film performances, marketing strategies, and the surprising box office performance. Despi...

Send a text What magic happens when the legendary Michael Keaton and fresh talent Jenna Ortega collide in Tim Burton's latest Beetlejuice film? Join us as guest host Erica Crouse helps uncover the layers of this reboot, from the excitement of practical effects to the pitfalls of its overstuffed narrative. Together, we dissect how Keaton's reprisal of the iconic role and Ortega's fre...