Talking Pictures: A Movie Memories Podcast

Ben Mankiewicz talks with Nancy Meyers about casting, getting script advice from Billy Wilder and becoming famous for her interiors. Nancy also answers our Super 8 questionnaire and reveals which film had her running from the theater in absolute terror.

Ben sits down with Steven Soderbergh (Ocean's 11, Full Circle, Erin Brockovich) to talk ‘70s films, George Clooney and how one maintains a 35-year career as a director. He also offers a little relationship advice and answers the Super 8.

Writer-director Emerald Fennell (Saltburn and Promising Young Woman) tells host Ben Mankiewicz why she makes uncomfortable films and why she prefers directing over acting. She also shares a formative experience she had while watching Jurassic Park.

Writer-director Cord Jefferson (American Fiction) and Ben talk life transitions, bravery and family. Jefferson charts his path from journalist to TV writer to first-time film director of 2023's celebrated American Fiction.

Ben hangs out with his friend, legend Mel Brooks (The Producers, Blazing Saddles) in this hilarious and poignant episode. Mel reminisces about Gene Wilder, Anne Bancroft and Carl Reiner. He also recounts a dinner with Alfred Hitchcock.

Director Alexander Payne (Election, Sideways) talks about his film The Holdovers, working with actors like Paul Giamatti and George Clooney, and the rumors of an Election sequel. Plus, the movie associated with one of his more awkward teenage dates.

Director Damien Chazelle (La La Land, First Man) describes his childhood as a budding filmmaker, getting his first film made, and how the pandemic impacted his recent epic Babylon. Then he takes on the Super 8 with host Ben Mankiewicz.

Legendary documentarian and filmmaker Errol Morris (The Thin Blue Line, The Fog of War) and host Ben Mankiewicz have a charged conversation about interviewing, serial killers, and movies. Plus, he reveals the movie that changed his life.

Ben Mankiewicz visits with director Patty Jenkins (Wonder Woman, Monster) to talk superheroes, serial killers, and being a female director in Hollywood. Patty discusses her friendship with Steve Perry and that rumored Star Wars script.

Director, actor, SNL veteran, and cinephile Bill Hader joins host Ben Mankiewicz to talk about his heroes (Stanley Kubrick, Joel and Ethan Coen), writing and directing his HBO show Barry, and throws in a few of his expert impressions.

Ben Mankiewicz interviews actor, comedian and classic movie lover Mario Cantone. They discuss Mario's life before acting and his role in “Sex and the City” and “And Just Like That…” Ben challenges Mario to the Super 8 movie questionnaire.