The Next Reel Film Podcast

“Don’t give me any of that ‘intelligent life’ stuff. Find me something I can blow up!”

John Carpenter and Dan O'Bannon met as film students at USC in the early 1970s. Together they created a 45-minute student film called Dark Star that ended up gaining traction on the film festival circuit. With additional funding, they expanded it into a feature film that was released in 1974. This sci-fi comedy film became a cult classic, despite its tiny budget and limited release. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1976 Hugo Awards Best Dramatic Presentation Nominees series with a conversation about Dark Star.

Here's a hint at what we talk about:
In our discussion of Dark Star, we dive into the film's origins as a student project and how it evolved into a feature film. We analyze the absurdist tone and philosophy of the story, as well as the mix of comedy and horror elements. Though we find some flaws, we appreciate the ambition and creativity behind this early work by Carpenter and O'Bannon.

Here are a few other points in our discussion:
  • The impressive visual effects and production design given the microbudget
  • Memorable characters and comedic performances
  • Thought-provoking themes about technology and human nature
  • Influences on later sci-fi classics like Alien and Red Dwarf
In the end, we see Dark Star as a unique cult film that shows the promise of Carpenter and O'Bannon as emerging filmmakers. Despite its uneven moments, it offers an imaginative vision and bold filmmaking. 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.