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Director's ClubSince 2011, I've hosted a podcast called Director's Club, focusing on film, filmmakers, music and pop culture obsession in general. In lieu of an official website, this is now the home base for all-things Director's Club - film, music, writing, podcasts! Author: Jim Laczkowski
A monthly show that reviews one film director per episode with the occasional bonus episode. Episodes 123-172 were hosted by Brad & Al. As of 2022, new episodes will be hosted by Jim and/or Bill. directorsclub.substack.com Language: en Genres: Arts, TV & Film, Visual Arts Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Episode 237: Ross McElwee
Episode 237
Saturday, 3 May, 2025
I once saw a film called Sherman’s March which of course I adored. But then a year or so ago, I watched another film by the same director, Bright Leaves. For some reason, it had a profound effect on me. This episode goes into detail as to why. Joining me throughout is Illinois archivist and historian Eric Edwards for this unconventional approach to this podcast. A lot of it edited, scripted, even EQ’d, but the most obvious difference are included excerpts from other shows. We hear a lot from Ross McElwee himself thanks to an array of interviews/clips from his own work. Best hear it straight from the horse’s mouth.The main focus is on the two films that resonated the most - Sherman’s March and Bright Leaves. But other recommendations turn up in the conversation as well with Time Indefinite and Six O’Clock News. I did revisit Photographic Memory which is harder to watch now knowing the director lost his son at a young age. Rumor has it that Ross might be working on a follow-up over 15 years later.I think of this is as my homage to the great Karina Longworth’s You Must Remember This since I do provide quotes, context and things I uncovered throughout (works cited and linked below). It’s also a birthday gift to me. There isn’t as much of a back-and-forth approach this time but a lot of monologuing in the spirit of Ross’ work. I hope you listen even if you’ve never heard the name Ross McElwee — then track down one of the best filmmakers I’ve come across.Thank you all for the support and for listening. There will be surprises, but now taking a short break. Have a great summer, I’ll be back in a new abode, ready to record come August and everything after. Works / Songs / Clips UsedDirector's Club is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Director's Club at directorsclub.substack.com/subscribe
