Julian Schlossberg’s Movie Talk

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor David Hyde Pierce. Pierce reminisces about his upbringing in Saratoga Springs, being the youngest of four children, and his early fascination with theatricality. He shares anecdotes about his childhood, including his dramatic staircase performances and his passion for piano, which he continues to play. Pierce discusses his journey into acting, from writing plays as a child to performing in high school and college. He also reflects on his iconic role as Niles Crane in "Frasier," highlighting the strategic creation of the character to complement Frasier.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg converses with acclaimed actor, writer, and director Alan Alda. They delve into Alda's extensive career, discussing his experiences with fame, writing, and directing, particularly his work on "MAS*H." Alda shares anecdotes about collaborating with notable figures like Woody Allen and Larry Gelbart, and reflects on his roles in projects like "The Four Seasons" and "The West Wing." The episode also touches on Alda's podcast "Clear and Vivid," where he explores the theme of communication with diverse guests. The conversation is filled with humor, insights, and personal stories.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg converses with award-winning actor, writer, and director Alan Alda. They delve into Alda's upbringing, including his early experiences in show business with his father, Robert Alda, a renowned actor. Alda shares personal stories about dealing with polio and mental illness in his family. The discussion also highlights Alda's passion for writing, his fascination with dialogue, and the influence of improvisation on his career. The episode offers a heartfelt and insightful look into the life and career of Alan Alda, enriched with anecdotes and reflections.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews actor Steve Guttenberg about his new book "Time to Thank" and his career. Steve shares touching stories about his father, Stan Guttenberg, a US Army Ranger and NYC policeman, who greatly influenced his life and career. He recounts early acting experiences, including studying with John Houseman and working with Gregory Peck. Steve also discusses his father's health struggles and the impact on their family. The episode highlights Steve's journey in the entertainment industry, his family's support, and the influential figures he encountered along the way.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg chats with comedian and actor Robert Klein. They delve into Klein's comedic influences, such as Alan King and Lenny Bruce, and discuss his signature style that draws on middle-class life and personal stories. Klein recounts memorable live performances, including a tough gig in Las Vegas with Barbara Streisand, and his passion for folk music. He also touches on his process of writing his own stand-up comedy material, mentioning how he admires Jerry Seinfeld's dedication to the craft. Quoting Seinfeld, Klein agrees that "comedy is a lot of hard work," and shares his own experiences in honing jokes and punchlines. Additionally, Klein expresses his fascination with historical figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt and the role of compromise in democracy. The conversation rounds out with Klein's experiences in improvisational music and its integration into his comedy.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews Robert Klein, a versatile comedian, actor, singer, and director. Klein recounts his childhood escapades, his family's influence, and his early love for rock and roll. He reflects on his career highlights, including his time at Second City and his film debut in "The Landlord." Klein shares memorable interactions with icons like Groucho Marx and delves into the intricacies of comedy and television. His stories reveal the impact of his experiences on his personal and professional development in the world of entertainment.

Julian Schlossberg interviews Sandy Duncan, a versatile actress, singer, and dancer. Sandy recounts her journey from a Texas upbringing to the New York stage, discussing her early love for performance and the support of her parents. She reflects on the challenges of transitioning from ballet to musical comedy, the impact of early roles like "Carousel," and navigating industry rejections. Despite facing a significant health scare with a brain tumor, Sandy's resilience shines through. She shares anecdotes about working with legends, her favorite roles, and producing her own nightclub act. Sandy's determination and positive attitude are evident as she discusses her career's highs and lows, including her experiences on "The Sandy Duncan Show" and in Las Vegas, as well as her thoughts on the movie industry.

Julian Schlossberg continues his interview with actress and model Isabella Rossellini. They delve into Rossellini's career, touching on her transition from modeling to acting and her work with directors like David Lynch. Rossellini shares her approach to the controversial role in "Blue Velvet," including the inspiration behind her character's vulnerability and the resulting public controversy. She also discusses her experience singing in the film and the importance of collaboration with composer Angelo Badalamenti. The conversation shifts to her portrayal of a facade of perfection and the underlying turmoil of her character. Additionally, Rossellini reflects on her work with Norman Mailer and the unique aspects of being directed by him. The episode also includes a promotion for Schlossberg's memoir, "Try Not to Hold It Against Me," offering a glimpse into his experiences in the entertainment industry.

Julian Schlossberg interviews Isabella Rossellini about her multifaceted life and career. They discuss her upbringing in Europe, the cultural contrasts with America, and her family, including her father, Roberto Rossellini, a key figure in Italian neorealism. Isabella reflects on her accent's impact on her acting roles, her self-confidence stemming from curiosity, and the influence of storytelling in her life. She also delves into her passion for animal behavior, her work in conservation and agritourism at Mama's Farm, and her experiences as an interviewer and model, offering insights into her personal and professional endeavors.

For the second half of this interview, Julian Schlossberg continues chatting with Martin Sheen about his acting career. Sheen recounts his early stage work, including "The Subject Was Roses," and his transition to film with "The Incident." He discusses working with Patricia Neal and Jack Albertson, the influence of James Dean on his acting, and his experiences on "Badlands" with director Terrence Malick. Sheen also opens up about his personal struggles during the filming of "Apocalypse Now," including his battle with alcoholism. The conversation reveals Sheen's journey to authenticity in his craft and his eventual path to sobriety.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews Martin Sheen, delving into Sheen's childhood, family, and early activism, as well as his acting career. Sheen recounts his upbringing as one of ten children in an Irish-Spanish family, his early realization of wanting to be an actor, and the influence of his parents on his life and career. He also discusses his first act of activism as a caddie and the decision to change his name for his acting career. Sheen's personal stories provide a backdrop to his successful journey in film and television.

In the second part of this interview, comedian and actor Eddie Izzard opens up about personal and professional experiences. Izzard shares the poignant moment of coming out to his father and delves into the emotional depth he brings to his performances. Additionally, Izzard discusses his role as Charlie Chaplin in "The Cat's Meow," offering insights into his portrayal of the iconic figure. The conversation provides a glimpse into Izzard's life and his approach to both comedy and drama.

In this podcast episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews the multifaceted Eddie Izzard, who shares his experiences as a comedian, actor, and transgender individual. Izzard discusses his early life, his transition from street performing to stand-up comedy, and the creation of his own comedy club. He reflects on the challenges he faced in the industry, his strategic move to theater, and his decision to come out as transgender in 1985. Izzard also talks about his acting career, including his one-person adaptation of "Hamlet," and the importance of authenticity and learning from failures. The conversation offers a glimpse into Izzard's journey of resilience and the pursuit of his passions against societal expectations.

In part 2 of this interview, Julian Schlossberg interviews TCM host Ben Mankiewicz. They explore Ben's career at TCM, his family's Hollywood legacy, and his approach to film analysis. Ben reflects on succeeding Bob Osborne at TCM, his admiration for his brother Joshua, and the complex life of his grandfather Herman Mankiewicz, including Herman's portrayal in "Mank." The episode covers Herman's influence on Hollywood, the impact of casting on film history, and personal anecdotes involving film legends. Discussions on scriptwriting, the enduring charm of classics like "Casablanca," and the creative process round out the conversation, offering a deep dive into classic cinema and industry insights.

In this podcast episode, host Julian Schlossberg talks with TCM host Ben Mankiewicz about his family's political background, his education, and his career in film criticism. Mankiewicz reflects on his upbringing in a politically active family, his experiences at Georgetown Day School and Tufts University, and his journey to becoming a film critic and host at TCM. He discusses the influence of his brother Joshua, his decision to attend Columbia's School of Journalism, and his move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Mankiewicz also shares anecdotes about his family's history in the film industry, including his grandfather Herman Mankiewicz, and his own experiences producing and directing the documentary "No Nukes." The episode explores the collaborative nature of filmmaking, the impact of iconic directors, and the personal connections people make with movies.

Julian Schlossberg interviews the accomplished actress Carol Kane. They discuss her illustrious career, touching on her Emmy wins for "Taxi," her Academy Award nomination for "Hester Street," and her roles in classics like "Annie Hall" and "The Princess Bride." Kane shares her early desire to act, her family's influence, and her regret at not pursuing music. She reflects on the importance of supportive directors like Mike Nichols and John Cassavetes and her transition into comedy, highlighted by her work with Gene Wilder and memorable performance in "The Princess Bride."

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews renowned playwright and filmmaker David Mamet. They discuss Mamet's career, his distribution of "George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey," and his book "Everywhere in England." Mamet criticizes Hollywood's middlemen, arguing that great producers support artists without interference. He recounts his insistence on final cut rights, as exemplified by his experience with HBO during the making of the Phil Spector film. Mamet also shares the intense audience reactions to his play "Oleanna," highlighting the powerful impact of his work on viewers.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews Twiggy, the iconic supermodel turned actress, singer, and podcast host. Twiggy recounts her rise to fame, her nickname's origin, and her transition from modeling to acting and singing. She discusses overcoming stereotypes and the support she received from influential industry figures like Diana Vreeland and Ken Russell. Twiggy also shares anecdotes about her podcast "Tea with Twiggy," her musical "Close Up," and an upcoming documentary about her life. Throughout, she reflects on the challenges and joys of her diverse career, highlighting the importance of creativity and collaboration.

In part 2 of this episode, Julian Schlossberg continues his interview with Marlo Thomas, delving into her illustrious career as an actress, author, and producer. They cover her Emmy win against stiff competition, her preference for theater's immediacy, and her experiences with directors like Mike Nichols. Marlo discusses her reluctance to direct, her involvement in remaking "It's a Wonderful Life," and her spontaneous on-set moments, including one with Orson Welles. She also touches on her father's role in founding St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and her groundbreaking project "Free to Be... You and Me." Throughout, Marlo reflects on breaking industry stereotypes and the importance of being recognized for her own merits.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews Marlo Thomas, delving into her life as an actress, producer, and author. Marlo shares anecdotes from her childhood with her father, Danny Thomas, and her journey in the entertainment industry. She discusses the influence of her father, her early career challenges, and her experiences in 1960s London. Marlo also touches on the cultural impact of her show "That Girl," her resilience in a male-dominated field, and the physical demands of working on a weekly series. She reflects on her decision to study with Lee Strasberg and her transition to dramatic roles, highlighting her determination and growth as an artist.

In Part 2 of Julian's interview with Richard Benjamin, Benjamin recounts his adventures in the film industry. He shares engaging stories about collaborating with iconic actors like Walter Matthau, Peter O'Toole, and Orson Welles, and discusses the nuances of directing and casting. The episode also features a plug for Schlossberg's audiobook "Try Not to Hold It Against Me," providing more insider insights into the entertainment world. Listeners get a rare peek into the dynamics of filmmaking from a seasoned actor-director's perspective.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews Richard Benjamin, a renowned actor and director. They delve into Benjamin's formative years at the High School of Performing Arts and Northwestern University, his early career as an NBC page, and his breakthrough audition for "Barefoot in the Park." The conversation highlights Benjamin's serendipitous rise in the industry, including his transition to directing. A nod is given to his work with the esteemed Myrna Loy, reflecting on the influence of chance encounters and opportunities in shaping his successful career in entertainment.

In this episode of "Movie Talk," host Julian Schlossberg interviews F. Murray Abraham, exploring his journey from a childhood battling asthma in Pittsburgh to becoming an Academy Award-winning actor. Abraham recounts his early days in El Paso with the Pachecos gang, his distinctive name's origin, and the development of his theatrical voice. He reflects on learning from Uta Hagen, working with greats like George C. Scott and Al Pacino, and his pivotal role as Salieri in "Amadeus." The conversation also delves into the nuances of acting across mediums, the impact of fame post-Oscar, and Abraham's enduring passion for the craft.