The Next Reel Film Podcast

“It’s what I have to work with.”
Adapted from the critically acclaimed Off-Broadway musical, Hedwig and the Angry Inch tells the story of an East German rock star on a journey of self-discovery. Directed by and starring John Cameron Mitchell, the film premiered at the 2001 Sundance Film Festival. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 2002 Film Independent Spirit Awards Best Cinematography Nominees series with a conversation about Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
With standout performances from Mitchell as well as Michael Pitt and Miriam Shore, Hedwig wrestles with difficult questions around gender that still resonate today. While our opinions differ on certain story elements, both agree the trailblazing musical remains an artful and subversive work.
We discuss some musical numbers, the complex journeys of Hedwig, Yitzhak, and ‘antagonist’ Tommy Gnosis, as well as supporting roles from Andrea Martin and Stephen Trask. Debates emerge around how the film brings its story to a close through dreamlike imagery. Both come to appreciate Hedwig even more through discussing its timeless message of self-acceptance.
With weighty themes balanced with humor and rock, the film leaves much to contemplate. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
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Creators and Guests

Host
Andy Nelson
With over 25 years of experience in film, television, and commercial production, Andy has cultivated an enduring passion for storytelling in all its forms. His enthusiasm for the craft began in his youth when he and his friends started making their own movies in grade school. After studying film at the University of Colorado Boulder, Andy wrote, directed, and produced several short films while also producing indie features like Netherbeast Incorporated and Ambush at Dark Canyon. Andy has been on the production team for award-winning documentaries such as The Imposter and The Joe Show, as well as TV shows like Investigation Discovery’s Deadly Dentists and Nat Geo’s Inside the Hunt for the Boston Bombers. Over a decade ago, he started podcasting with Pete and immediately embraced the medium. Now, as a partner at TruStory FM, Andy looks forward to more storytelling through their wide variety of shows. Throughout his career, Andy has passed on his knowledge by teaching young minds the crafts of screenwriting, producing, editing, and podcasting. Outside of work, Andy is a family man who enjoys a good martini, a cold beer, a nice cup o’ joe. And always, of course, a great movie.
Host
Pete Wright
#Movies, #ADHD, & #Podcasting • Co-founder @trustory.fm🎥 The Next Reel Family of #Film Podcasts @thenextreel.com🎙️ Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast @takecontroladhd.com📖 Co-author of Unapologetically ADHD • https://unapologeticallyadhdbook.com

What is The Next Reel Film Podcast?

A show about movies and how they connect.
We love movies. We’ve been talking about them, one movie a week, since 2011. It’s a lot of movies, that’s true, but we’re passionate about origins and performance, directors and actors, themes and genres, and so much more. So join the community, and let’s hear about your favorite movies, too.
When the movie ends, our conversation begins.