THE FIXATE & BINGE PODCAST, with Host, Joe Curdy: Deep dives into cinema and storytelling with voices who create it

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Christopher Nolan's THE ODYSSEY is already being celebrated for its breathtaking IMAX photography and epic scope—but is its greatest achievement something far more intimate?
In this solo episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, Joe Curdy moves beyond the spectacle to explore the film's deeper philosophical questions. Is Odysseus' voyage really about crossing the Mediterranean... or confronting the man he has become? What does "coming home" truly mean after years of war, violence, moral compromise, and unbearable loss?
Joe also offers an honest—and perhaps controversial—take on experiencing the film in 70mm IMAX versus standard digital IMAX, questioning whether the premium format ultimately enhanced or distracted from the emotional experience.
From Matt Damon's quietly devastating performance to the haunting presence of Athena, Zeus' Law, survivor's guilt, and the unforgettable metaphor of the Sirens' "delicious itch," this episode explores why THE ODYSSEY may be Nolan's most reflective and emotionally resonant film to date.
Sometimes the longest journey isn't across an ocean.
It's the one that leads us back to ourselves.
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Twenty-five years after its release, GYPSY 83 has become something rare in independent cinema: a film that grew more meaningful with time.
On this special episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I am joined by writer/director Todd Stephens and actor Birkett Turton to celebrate the enduring legacy of a film that has evolved from an overlooked independent release into a beloved cult classic.
Todd Stephens has long been recognized as a trailblazer in Queer Cinema, creating deeply personal stories centered around identity, belonging, friendship, and the search for connection. With GYPSY 83, he introduced audiences to an unforgettable road movie about two young people discovering themselves, finding confidence, and creating their own chosen family.
We revisit the making of the 2001 film starring Sara Rue as Gypsy and Birkett Turton as Clive, exploring the incredible chemistry between its two leads, the challenges of bringing the story to life, and how a movie that was not initially embraced by critics has gone on to inspire generations of fans.
Todd and Birkett share behind-the-scenes memories from production, reflect on the film's cultural impact 25 years later, and discuss why GYPSY 83 continues to resonate with audiences searching for stories about acceptance, individuality, and finding your place in the world.
Before welcoming my guests, I also have a little fun discussing the early backlash toward Christopher Nolan's upcoming THE ODYSSEY and offering a playful message to those already writing off a film before they've even seen it.
This episode is a celebration of independent filmmaking, Queer Cinema history, and the rare films that become more powerful as the years go by.
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Writer-director Lauren Meyering and breakout star Lillian Carrier join The Fixate & Binge Podcast to discuss one of 2025's most heartfelt independent films, HORSEGIRLS, which debuted at New York's 2025 Tribeca Film Festival. 
Inspired by a true story, HORSEGIRLS follows Margarita, a 22-year-old autistic woman navigating adulthood while caring for—and being cared for by—her fiercely protective mother, played by Gretchen Mol. As Margarita discovers the unexpected world of competitive hobby horse riding, she begins to find confidence, community, and her own identity at a pivotal moment in both of their lives.
Joe sits down with Meyering and Carrier for an honest conversation about adapting a deeply personal true story for the screen, the importance of authentic neurodivergent representation, collaborating with Gretchen Mol, balancing humor with emotional honesty, and why the film refuses to rely on familiar Hollywood clichés. Carrier also reflects on bringing her own lived experience as an autistic actor to the role of Margarita and what it meant to portray a character with such sincerity and authenticity.
Plus, Joe shares why HORSEGIRLS became one of his favorite discoveries of the year, praising the remarkable performances from Carrier and Mol and the film's compassionate portrait of family, independence, and acceptance.
If you love character-driven independent cinema and conversations about authentic storytelling, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
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As we reach the halfway point of 2026, it's the perfect time to look back at the movies and television shows that have made the biggest impact so far this year.
In this special solo episode, Joe Curdy shares his favorite films and television series of 2026—from big studio releases and prestige television to independent gems that deserve a wider audience. Along the way, he reflects on the year's biggest surprises, a few disappointments, and the common themes that seem to be resonating with audiences today.
Featuring discussion of Project Hail Mary, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Toy Story 5, The Sheep Detectives, Omaha, Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, Obsession, The Furious, The Bear, The Pitt, House of the Dragon, Silo, Jury Duty: Company Retreat, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Widow's Bay, and Cape Fear, this episode goes beyond reviews to explore why these stories matter—and what they might say about the kinds of stories we're seeking in 2026.
Whether you're searching for your next great movie, the next television series to binge, or simply enjoy thoughtful conversations about film and television, this mid-year check-in has something for every movie and TV fan.
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In Part 2 of our special WATCHING THE SKIES series, what began as a continuation of our exploration of cinema's fascination with UFOs and UAPs takes an unexpected turn when award-winning filmmaker Vito Trupiano (HELLBENT ON BOOGIE) joins the conversation.
A lifelong student of the UAP phenomenon—and currently developing a passion project centered on the subject—Vito brings a filmmaker's perspective and an enthusiast's curiosity to one of humanity's greatest mysteries. Together, we dive deep into Steven Spielberg's DISCLOSURE DAY, discussing what resonated, what left us wanting more, and how the film compares to decades of UFO storytelling on screen.
Our conversation quickly expands beyond the movies into documented encounters, government disclosures, military testimony, and the enduring questions surrounding unexplained aerial phenomena that continue to captivate scientists, skeptics, and believers alike.
Along the way, we also revisit several modern classics that have shaped the genre—including DISTRICT 9, ARRIVAL, THE VAST OF NIGHT, UNDER THE SKIN, NO ONE WILL SAVE YOU, NOPE, and PROJECT HAIL MARY—while exploring why UFO cinema continues to mirror humanity's hopes, fears, and fascination with the unknown.
Whether you're a lifelong believer, an open-minded skeptic, or simply a fan of great science fiction, this free-flowing conversation offers an engaging look at where film, imagination, and the unexplained intersect.
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