Episodes

  • From Moonstruck to Mother: Wild Performances That Made Us Fall in Love with Acting

    From Moonstruck to Mother: Wild Performances That Made Us Fall in Love with Acting
    Apr 25 2025
    Welcome back to The Film Library, a Kanopy podcast where we celebrate incredible films, hidden gems, and iconic performances - all streaming free with your library card. This week, hosts Kristy Puchko (Entertainment Editor at Mashable) and Jeff Rauseo (film fanatic and Letterboxd completionist) dive into the theme of “Acting in April,” spotlighting legendary actors, jaw-dropping performances, and award snubs that still sting. From Cher and Cage’s chaotic romance in Moonstruck to Willem Dafoe’s career of Oscar-worthy transformations, Kristy and Jeff swap picks and hot takes. This episode has everything from scene-stealing British dames and disturbing child villains to Jennifer Lawrence spiraling in Mother and Margot Robbie body-slamming her way out of typecasting in I, Tonya. This is your all-access pass to performances that go big, go weird, and go straight to your watchlist. Follow Kristy on Instagram @thekristypuchko and on Letterboxd @kristypuchko. You can find Jeff on Instagram, TikTok, and Letterboxd @jeffrauseo. Don’t forget to follow Kanopy on Letterboxd to see the full episode list—and stream every film we mention for free at kanopy.com with your library or university card. 🎞️ Episode Highlights 00:52 — Jeff kicks things off with Willem Dafoe: Four Oscar noms, zero wins. Justice for The Florida Project! 02:20 — Kristy shouts out Joan Cusack and the camp brilliance of Addams Family Values 05:37 — Kristy goes full psycho-biddy with What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? 08:14 — Jeff unpacks Mother (2017) and Jennifer Lawrence’s fearless, full-send performance 10:45 — Moonstruck gets the love it deserves: Cher + Nic Cage = cinema magic 14:40 — Margot Robbie shocks in I, Tonya, proving she’s far more than The Wolf of Wall Street’s bombshell 17:15 — Kristy serves up tea with legends in Tea with the Dames 19:10 — Jeff pays tribute to comedy royalty with the Chris Farley doc I Am Chris Farley 21:03 — Kristy brings the heat with Glengarry Glen Ross and Al Pacino’s layered legacy 23:45 — Jeff spotlights Denzel Washington in Fences and Flight—and yes, he named a cat after him 26:30 — Kristy introduces The Bad Seed, a chilling performance so intense they changed the ending 29:44 — Jeff ends on Possession (1981), a movie so unhinged it might haunt you—in a good way
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    37 mins
  • Meet the Movie Lovers Behind The Film Library

    Meet the Movie Lovers Behind The Film Library
    Apr 25 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 of The Film Library, a podcast from Kanopy where we explore great films, hidden gems, and must-watch classics—all available to stream free with your library card. In this kickoff episode, new hosts Kristy Puchko (Entertainment Editor at Mashable) and Jeff Rauseo (movie lover, collector, and social media creator) introduce themselves the only way true cinephiles can: by sharing five films that define their taste. From genre-bending horror and high-stakes heists to iconic rom-coms and daring cult hits, this episode is a tour through some of the most intriguing titles you can stream right now on Kanopy. Get to know Kristy and Jeff through their thoughtful, funny, and occasionally chaotic back-and-forth as they break down what makes these films unforgettable. Whether you’re in the mood for a Charlie Chaplin deep cut, an Anne Hathaway kaiju dramedy, or a hauntingly real serial killer thriller, this list covers the cinematic spectrum—with plenty of recommendations for what to watch next. If you’ve ever wanted a podcast that feels like your smartest movie group chat, you’re in the right place. Follow Kristy on Instagram @thekristypuchko and on Letterboxd @kristypuchko. You can find Jeff on Instagram, TikTok, and Letterboxd @jeffrauseo. Don’t forget to follow Kanopy on Letterboxd to see the full episode list—and stream every film we mention for free at kanopy.com with your library or university card. 🎞️ Episode Highlights 00:33 — Jeff and Kristy introduce themselves 01:00 — Jeff’s first pick: The Great Dictator and why it’s more radical than you remember 03:55 — Kristy picks Parasite and celebrates Bong Joon-ho’s genre-defying brilliance 06:00 — Jeff examines Possessor, Brandon Cronenberg, and loving horror that gets weird 07:00 — Kristy’s palate cleanser: Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant in Charade 10:55 — Jeff’s wildcard comedy pick: Hot Rod and the joys of chaotic energy 11:00 — Kristy shares Swan Song, a bittersweet road movie with Udo Kier and Jennifer Coolidge 12:45 — Zodiac: Jeff’s Fincher obsession and Kristy’s absolute fear 15:37 — Kristy picks Colossal, Anne Hathaway as a kaiju conduit and the power of subtle storytelling 18:17 — Jeff goes vintage cult with The Wicker Man (the original!) 20:21 — Kristy closes with American Animals, a genre-blending true crime thriller you won’t forget
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    29 mins
  • Exploring Film Noir with Justin Chang

    Exploring Film Noir with Justin Chang
    Jul 12 2024
    This week The Film Library jumps into the shadowy world of film noir. Your hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson, are joined by the Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic and chair of the National Society of Film Critics, Justin Chang. Together they unravel the intricate layers of this timeless genre. From the raw, hard-boiled classics like "DOA" and "Detour" to the evocative international contributions seen in films like "Breathless" and "Burning," film noir is more than just a genre—it's a mood and a style that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Justin explores its roots in the post-war era, its themes of cynicism and despair, and its visual beauty, characterized by stark contrasts and gritty storytelling. He also discusses how films like Robert Altman's "The Long Goodbye" and Christopher Nolan's "Memento" have evolved the traditional noir template, creating unique and often mind-bending experiences. The group takes a look at the lasting impact of noir in contemporary cinema, examining how despair and unease from today's societal challenges, such as late-stage capitalism and the pandemic, might inspire future noir narratives. Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted. Follow Kanopy at https://www.youtube.com/@KanopyOfficial https://letterboxd.com/kanopy/ https://www.instagram.com/kanopy https://www.tiktok.com/@kanopyofficial https://twitter.com/kanopy Follow Justin Chang https://x.com/justincchang Follow Alonso Duralde https://bsky.app/profile/aduralde.bsky.social Follow Daniel Thompson https://x.com/deckthedan Producer: Brandon Gray Executive Producer: Christian Pierce Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic © Kanopy, Inc. All rights reserved. Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 03:34 Noir films explore American society's dynamics. 07:07 Film noir’s origins, influences, enduring legacy. 14:00 Analysis of neo-noir and mystery film. 19:16 Noir represents isolation 22:37 Altman's "The Long Goodbye" and "Under the Silver Lake" age well, capturing specific moods. 25:55 Reflective films offer escapism from current turmoil. 31:24 Influential international films paying homage to noir.
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    38 mins
  • The Art of Emotional Storytelling in Documentaries with Alex Winter

    The Art of Emotional Storytelling in Documentaries with Alex Winter
    Jul 5 2024
    This week hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson are joined by actor and filmmaker Alex Winter. Well known for his character-driven and emotional documentaries, Alex shares his journey from acting to NYU film student to acclaimed documentarian, dissecting the societal impact of technology on marginalized groups. Alex discusses his pivotal works "Deep Web" and "The YouTube Effect," revealing how he adapts stories to serve their emotional arcs and the complexities of managing vast amounts of footage. Alex also shares his thoughts on the evolving landscape of film distribution, the parallels between the film and music industries post-Napster, and the indispensable role platforms like Kanopy play in preserving and presenting diverse cinema. Their discussion highlights the challenges of documentary filmmaking, the influence of historical filmmakers, and Alex's latest projects. Plus, Alex shares some must-watch documentaries available on Kanopy, including recommendations like "Man on Wire" and "Faces Places." Whether you're a documentary aficionado or new to the genre, this episode promises to be a captivating exploration of the art and impact of documentary cinema. Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted. Follow Kanopy at https://www.youtube.com/@KanopyOfficial https://letterboxd.com/kanopy/ https://www.instagram.com/kanopy https://www.tiktok.com/@kanopyofficial https://twitter.com/kanopy Follow Alex Winter https://www.instagram.com/alxwinter/ Follow Alonso Duralde https://bsky.app/profile/aduralde.bsky.social Follow Daniel Thompson https://x.com/deckthedan Producer: Brandon Gray Executive Producer: Christian Pierce Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic © Kanopy, Inc. All rights reserved. Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 10:01 Alex Winter discusses production processes and challenges. 13:56 Societal impact and individual stories. 19:10 Alex’s struggle with indie filmmaking made him turn to docs. 24:02 YouTube documentary focused on emotional stories. 27:13 Struggles in the art and entertainment industry. 28:06 Challenges releasing independent films. 37:38 Prioritize meaningful films over mainstream success. 38:35 The impact of the writer’s strike leads to developing multiple projects. 41:46 Documentary filmmakers inspire a vibrant, active life.
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    49 mins
  • Exploring Horror and Sci-Fi with Filmmaker Josh Ruben

    Exploring Horror and Sci-Fi with Filmmaker Josh Ruben
    Jun 28 2024
    In this episode of The Film Library, hosts Daniel Thompson and Alonso Duralde talk with talented actor and director Josh Ruben to discuss his creative inspirations and the intentional social commentary in his horror projects, emphasizing the power of the outsider narrative. Josh discusses his influences from the musical genius of Jerry Goldsmith along with Danny Elfman's iconic Catwoman theme from the Batman series, and how these thoughts and ideas seep into his work. He also reveals the sci-fi films that have profoundly impacted his filmmaking journey, naming classics like The Fly, Robocop, and Event Horizon. In addition, he reflects on how his roots in sketch comedy shape his ability to blend humor with genuine scares in his movies. The episode outlines his transition from directing commercials to full-length features such as "Scare Me," "Werewolves Within," and his latest horror comic project, "Darla." If you're a fan of horror and science fiction, then you're in for a treat. Join us as we explore the importance and accessibility of these genres, the storytelling opportunities they present, and get to know a filmmaker who masterfully combines scares, laughs, and layered narratives. Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted. Follow Kanopy at https://www.youtube.com/@KanopyOfficial https://letterboxd.com/kanopy/ https://www.instagram.com/kanopy https://www.tiktok.com/@kanopyofficial https://twitter.com/kanopy Follow Josh Ruben https://www.instagram.com/joshruben/ Follow Alonso Duralde https://bsky.app/profile/aduralde.bsky.social Follow Daniel Thompson https://x.com/deckthedan Producer: Brandon Gray Executive Producer: Christian Pierce Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic © Kanopy, Inc. All rights reserved. Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 06:34 Comedians enjoy complex, multi-tiered, stylized films. 13:32 Creative leeway and constructive feedback. 16:47 Horror combines multiple genres and messages. 18:45 Emphasizing outsider with non-white protagonist subtly. 23:34 Memorable movies from Cronenberg and Verhoeven. 29:13 Horror comic book "Darla" 32:54 Recent films on Kanopy offer thought-provoking themes.
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    38 mins
  • Cheryl Dunye Explores Queer Film History and Preservation

    Cheryl Dunye Explores Queer Film History and Preservation
    Jun 21 2024
    Join hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson as they sit down with filmmaker Cheryl Dunye, best known for her trailblazing film "The Watermelon Woman." As a graduate from Temple University, Cheryl sought to define her identity as a black lesbian in cinema, only to realize the glaring lack of representation. This realization fueled her to create a film that blends her passion for cinema, her personal identity, and her vibrant community. Cheryl explores how "The Watermelon Woman" aimed to empower queer individuals and add a pivotal chapter to film history. They also discuss her views on the importance of preserving and making accessible diverse film narratives, her favorite genre films, and influential titles currently available on Kanopy. Plus, Cheryl shares her thoughts on the resilience needed to succeed as an indie filmmaker in a landscape with significant racial and gender disparities. Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted. Follow Kanopy at https://www.youtube.com/@KanopyOfficial https://letterboxd.com/kanopy/ https://www.instagram.com/kanopy https://www.tiktok.com/@kanopyofficial https://twitter.com/kanopy Follow Cheryl Dunye at https://www.instagram.com/cheryldunye Follow Alonso Duralde https://bsky.app/profile/aduralde.bsky.social Follow Daniel Thompson https://x.com/deckthedan Producer: Brandon Gray Executive Producer: Christian Pierce Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic © Kanopy, Inc. All rights reserved. Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 03:21 Intro to Cheryl Dunye 07:35 Cheryl searches for black lesbian representation 13:27 Importance of archiving black queer life stories 20:00 Finding solace in storytelling 25:48 Watermelon Woman finds a curated home 27:41 Rare content found online 31:51 Low budget lesbian film with diverse characters 34:43 Diverse LGBTQ+ content from Kanopy
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    39 mins
  • The Influence of International Cinema with Francis Lee

    The Influence of International Cinema with Francis Lee
    Jun 14 2024
    Welcome to Episode 4 of The Film Library where we examine the world of international cinema through the lens of acclaimed filmmaker Frances Lee. Join our hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson as they chat with the director behind "God's Own Country" and "Ammonite," and explore his passion for visual storytelling over dialogue—a hallmark of his favorite auteurs, Jacques Audiard and the Dardenne Brothers. In this episode, Francis Lee shares his unique perspective on how rural communities and farming practices were perceived in his films compared to his intentions. We also delve into the transition from acting to filmmaking, his working-class roots, and how he’d funded his early projects while working at a junkyard. Francis also gives us an insightful look into his creative process, the challenges of navigating industrial actions by WGA and SAG, and the commitment to telling personal stories with central gay characters. Join us for a captivating conversation that celebrates the power of world cinema, available for free on Kanopy through participating libraries and universities. Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted. Follow Kanopy at https://www.youtube.com/@KanopyOfficial https://letterboxd.com/kanopy/ https://www.instagram.com/kanopy https://www.tiktok.com/@kanopyofficial https://twitter.com/kanopy Follow Alonso Duralde https://bsky.app/profile/aduralde.bsky.social Follow Daniel Thompson https://x.com/deckthedan Producer: Brandon Gray Executive Producer: Christian Pierce Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic © Kanopy, Inc. All rights reserved. Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 04:11 World cinema’s diverse and enriching experiences 13:37 Specific storytelling makes films universally relatable 17:00 Admiration for French filmmakers and visual storytelling 19:49 Rural perceptions 23:08 Access to worldwide films reshape a filmmaker landscape 25:21 Took time off to write three screenplays 28:40 Kanopy offers international cinema streaming
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    35 mins
  • Navigating the World of Film Adaptations with Kristen Lopez

    Navigating the World of Film Adaptations with Kristen Lopez
    Jun 7 2024
    Welcome to another episode of The Film Library: A Kanopy Podcast! On this episode hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson jump into the fascinating world of page-to-screen adaptations with our esteemed guest, Kristen Lopez, author of "But Have You Read the Book?: 52 Literary Gems That Inspired Our Favorite Films." They explore the intricate process of transforming beloved books into films. Discover the political and religious themes often omitted in adaptations, the impact of the Production Code, and the ongoing debate of books versus movies. Kristen shares her insights on how industry changes have influenced adaptations, along with her personal frustrations when core elements of the text are altered. She also highlights some notable adaptations like "Jurassic Park," "A Man Called Otto," and "The Talented Mr. Ripley," along with a selection of films available on Kanopy, including classics like "The Great Gatsby." Whether you're a book lover, a film enthusiast, or both, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights and expert perspectives. Tune in as we navigate the art of adaptation, with plenty of recommendations for your next watch or read. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction to movie adaptations 03:52 Books and movies differ 09:30 Adapting content reveals evolving societal influences and concerns 12:44 Selecting books for a broad audience challenge 15:24 Book's subplot adds wild and meta layers 23:03 Industry changes, frustrations, and adapting children's books 26:37 Excitement for dark, fantasy book adaptations 30:08 Surprising movie adaptations that are often overlooked Get started with Kanopy at www.kanopy.com by entering your library card information or university login when prompted. Follow Kanopy at https://www.youtube.com/@KanopyOfficial https://letterboxd.com/kanopy/ https://www.instagram.com/kanopy https://www.tiktok.com/@kanopyofficial https://twitter.com/kanopy Follow Kristen Lopez at https://www.instagram.com/kristenlopez88/ Follow Alonso Duralde https://bsky.app/profile/aduralde.bsky.social Follow Daniel Thompson https://x.com/deckthedan Producer: Brandon Gray Executive Producer: Christian Pierce Graphic Design: Aleksandra Jelic © Kanopy, Inc. All rights reserved. Produced by Bramble Jam Podcast
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    36 mins
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