Freedom, Flicks, and Frustration: From Medicaid to Movies, a 4th of July to Remember
Send us a textIn this special July 4th weekend episode, I start with something a little different. While I usually keep this podcast focused on the worlds of film and television, I couldn’t ignore the very real-world news that broke over the holiday: a deeply concerning piece of legislation signed into law by President Trump that slashes Medicaid access, cuts SNAP benefits for struggling families, adds trillions to the national debt, and gives away massive tax breaks to the already ultra-wealthy.It felt wrong not to say something.But don’t worry — we do pivot back to what this podcast does best: breaking down what’s worth watching (and what’s not).🎬 Movies & Shows Discussed:HEADS OF STATE (2025) – Idris Elba and John Cena bring action and comedy to Amazon Prime.THE ACTOR (2025) – An offbeat noir character study streaming on Hulu.GARDEN OF EDEN (2025) – A horror film I wish I could forget, rented via VOD.Thanks for listening — whether you come for the movies or stay for the honesty, I appreciate you.Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!Read our Letterboxd reviews at:https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/Follow us on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=msFollow us on TikTok at:https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcastVisit our website at:https://fixateandbingepodcast.com/
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From Script to Screen: Michael Smallwood and Elizabeth Caddy on their film TONIGHT AND MAYBE TOMORROW
Send us a textIn this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I welcome back returning guest and producer Elizabeth Caddy, alongside writer/director Michael Smallwood, to discuss their powerful new independent film TONIGHT AND MAYBE TOMORROW.As the project gears up for its film festival debut, Elizabeth and Michael share the film’s origin story — from the first sparks of the script to building a creative partnership grounded in trust, vision, and shared ambition. The duo open up about navigating the challenges of indie filmmaking, working with two key financiers, and the emotional terrain their story explores.Whether you're a fan of grounded storytelling, an aspiring filmmaker, or just love hearing about how a movie gets made from the inside out, this candid, behind-the-scenes conversation offers a window into the collaborative heart of modern independent cinema.Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!Read our Letterboxd reviews at:https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/Follow us on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=msFollow us on TikTok at:https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcastVisit our website at:https://fixateandbingepodcast.com/
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28 YEARS LATER: Why Most American Audiences Don't Get It
Send us a textDanny Boyle and Alex Garland return to the world of rage-fueled devastation with 28 YEARS LATER— but not everyone is on board. In this episode of The Fixate & Binge Podcast, I break down why this new entry in the viral horror trilogy has divided American audiences, and why that might be exactly the point. This isn’t just a zombie flick — it’s a deeply British story with cultural scars, political echoes, and stylistic choices that don't cater to Hollywood expectations. I talk performance, aesthetic, why Garland’s storytelling hits differently across the pond, and what the shocking ending may portend in the next sequel! Time to rage… again.Be Warned: SPOILERS all the way through!Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!Read our Letterboxd reviews at:https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/Follow us on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=msFollow us on TikTok at:https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcastVisit our website at:https://fixateandbingepodcast.com/
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Watching Films With My Two Dads and 25 of the Greatest Films About Fatherhood!
Send us a textIn this special Father’s Day episode, I reflect on the powerful role movies have played in my relationships with both of my fathers—my dad and my stepdad. From Saturday matinees to unforgettable movie nights, I share the films that bonded us, shaped us, and stuck with me for life.I also present my curated list of the 25 greatest films about fatherhood, exploring stories that capture the joy, complexity, heartbreak, and heroism of being a dad. Whether you're a parent, a child, or just someone who loves a good film about family, this episode is for you.Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!Read our Letterboxd reviews at:https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/Follow us on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=msFollow us on TikTok at:https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcastVisit our website at:https://fixateandbingepodcast.com/
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From Bangkok to Hollywood: Discussing Tony Jaa's THE PROTECTOR with Actress/Producer Patty Srisuwan
Send us a textIn this episode, host Joe Curdy welcomes Thai actress and producer Patty Srisuwan for a high-energy conversation on the groundbreaking 2005 martial arts film The Protector, starring Tony Jaa. A longtime friend of director Prachya Pinkaew, Patty brings insider knowledge and heartfelt insight into the film’s production, its cultural significance, and its global impact.Together, they explore how THE PROTECTOR became a defining moment for Thai action cinema, the symbolism of elephants in Thai storytelling, and what makes Muay Thai choreography so electrifying on screen. The episode also takes a broader look at the Thai film industry—its challenges, evolution, and international recognition.Whether you’re new to Thai films or a fan of high-octane action, this conversation with Patty Srisuwan is not to be missed.Thank you for listening! You can find and follow us with the links below!Read our Letterboxd reviews at:https://letterboxd.com/fixateandbinge/Follow us on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/fixateandbingepodcast/?hl=msFollow us on TikTok at:https://www.tiktok.com/@fixateandbingepodcastVisit our website at:https://fixateandbingepodcast.com/
Welcome to the Fixate & Binge Podcast, your one-stop destination that uses movies and television shows as a springboard to discuss life’s most important topics! Listen in to hear recommendations, reviews, and real-world applications on the meaning of the stories told through the medium of movies and television. Hosted by Joe Curdy, new episodes are released every Tuesday. Usually spanning 30-60 minutes each episode, you’ll come away with something to think about and a knowledge of which entertainment options are worth your time, and which are not.
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