Matt Walsh joins Mase & Sue to discuss MANHUNT, the APPLE TV+ historical fiction thriller about the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, the conspiracy to overturn the government, how clueless we were about the events, the eerie parallels to today, landing the villainous role of Dr. Samuel Mudd, the process of portraying a real-life character, his improv background coming into play, and how a big budget, noncommercial series got green-lit. We also discuss his time on and away from VEE...
May 06, 2024•37 min
Nate Corddry, “David,” not “Davey,” drops by the CULTURE POP PODCAST for the Episode 5 Watch Along Series of the APPLE TV+ noir thriller, SUGAR. Mase & Sue open the show discussing the secret society John Sugar’s a part of, and his boss Ruby’s fears about what Sugar may find out. Will he discover who he is or once was? His seemingly superhuman qualities - who perfectly parallel parks a car at 30MPH? Was he created? Is he AI? An Alien? Strange that when Melanie stayed at his hotel he walked o...
May 02, 2024•28 min
Legendary comic talk radio host Phil Hendrie shares stories from his iconic career with Mase & Sue. From the early disc jockey days, how he innovated the art of interview, the madness behind his genius ad-lib foolery, the inspiration for his characters to the ability to alarm and disarm real callers. Also, the brilliant satirists who opened the door for his style of play, his acting and voice over work, what led to leaving radio, creating the WORLD OF PHIL HENDRIE PODCAST, and the new HENDRI...
Apr 29, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Mase & Sue do some detective work on their Watch Along of Episode 4 of APPLE TV +’s LA set noir series, SUGAR, starring Colin Farrell. They discuss the introduction of Olivia’s disturbing social media posts, Melanie’s suspicious dealings with Bernie, David and his Henchman’s visit with Sugar’s purported mother, and a possible clue as to “what” her “son” truly is. Also, why is Sugar so optimistic about the human condition, yet constantly questioning it? What’s behind the discussion with his s...
Apr 25, 2024•41 min
Katy O’Brian chats with Mase & Sue about her tailor-made role in Rose Glass’ provocative indie revenge thriller LOVE LIES BLEEDING. We talk about the training process, her martial arts and bodybuilding journey, the path to landing the part, chemistry and playfulness with co-star Kristen Stewart, working opposite Ed Harris, the game changing departure from her sci-fi and superhero characters and fun with end credits, Plus, peeks into CIVIL WAR, MONKEY MAN, the Broadway revival of FUNNY GIRL, ...
Apr 23, 2024•57 min
On their first “Watch Along Series,” Mase & Sue do a deep dive into the first three episodes of Apple TV +’s modern noir series, SUGAR, starring Colin Farrell in the titular role. We discuss elements of his character, a theory of who he is, comparisons to CHINATOWN, the homages to the genre, and the use of classic film noir black & white cutaways. Plus, who was Jen? Where’s Olivia? Is her family complicit? What’s the deal with the secret society? Who’s Stallings? And what great mysteries...
Apr 17, 2024•20 min
Julia Duffy joins Mase & Sue to talk about her high society role in Apple TV+’s sixties set comedy-drama PALM ROYALE. They discuss how she landed the part, digging into her Minnesota roots to find her character, working with an all-star cast, the spot-on midcentury scenic and costume design. Also, her childhood obsession with Carol Burnett, the dream job of playing opposite Bob Newhart, garnering seven Emmy nominations, her journey into pursuing an acting career, whether it’s harder for a wo...
Apr 11, 2024•52 min
Mase & Sue kick off the episode shooting the breeze about the best meals and greatest trips of their lifetime before writer/producer and favorite foodie, Phil Rosenthal joins in to talk about the new season of SOMEBODY FEED PHIL. They discuss the sitcom elements of the show, how the locations are chosen, the beauty of serendipity, what doesn’t make the final cut, respectfully dodging situations, an emotional food connection in Dubai, observing Ramadan, Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen as a...
Apr 04, 2024•44 min
Actor Simon Baker chats about his starring and producing roles in the acclaimed Independent Australian film, LIMBO – the outback noir mystery-crime gem directed by Ivan Sen. Mase & Sue talk with him about his experience working with the Indigenous auteur filmmaker, an intimate crew, authentic undressed location settings, shooting monochromatic, casting local kids, and the relationship between indigenous Australians and white Australians. Also, his first film, LA CONFIDENTIAL, directorial deb...
Mar 28, 2024•55 min
First, chewing betel nut in Guam, an acupuncturist adjustment gone wrong, new shows MR. AND MRS. SMITH and THE REGIME, on HBO and a 22-year-old model who had a creepy encounter with Leonardo DiCaprio. Then Actor/Comedian Rory Scovel returns to the show to talk to with Mase & Sue about his new HBO MAX standup special RELIGION, SEX AND A FEW THINGS IN BETWEEN. They discuss what inspired the controversial topics, his improvisational style, being the product of a bible belt upbringing, audience ...
Mar 19, 2024•1 hr 7 min
Independent Spirit Award nominee, Judy Reyes talks to Mase & Sue about her lead role in the Frankenstein-inspired film, BIRTH/REBIRTH. We discuss why she took the part, the evolution of her character, working with co-star Marin Ireland, dealing with brutal subject matter, and director/co-writer Laura Moss’ straddling of the lengths one will go in order to achieve the thing you’re afraid to lose. Also, Judy's dream roles on SCRUBS and DEVIOUS MAIDS. Plus, the loss of a beloved dog, their lack...
Mar 11, 2024•55 min
Author/Movie critic Josh Larsen is back on the CULTURE POP PODCAST joining Mase & Sue for their annual Oscars preview show. They talk about the diversity in 2023’s films, the state of animation, shoo-ins, curveballs, sentimental favorites, who got snubbed and the nominees we would remove for those we wanted. Plus, how the SAG Award winners will fare, and Jimmy Kimmel’s return as Hollywood’s biggest night’s host.
Mar 07, 2024•56 min
America’s favorite potty mouth, the hilarious Susie Essman returns to the CULTURE POP PODCAST to chat with Mase and Sue about her career defining decades on HBO’s CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM. They talk about the final season, the unconventional amount of ad libbing, being part of the creative process, the genius and loyalty of Larry David, favorite scenes throughout the series, what’s inherent in all comedians and nightmare gigs that helped hone her craft. They also pay tribute to the legendary Richard...
Mar 04, 2024•47 min
Screenwriters Terence Winter & Frank E Flowers join Mase & Sue to talk about BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE, which chronicles the rise of one of the most influential music artists of all time. We talk about how the message of his music impacted the world and continues to resonate today, the process of penning a biopic, the dynamic of writing partners, the intimate collaboration with Marley’s family, Bob and Rita’s complicated relationship, the authenticity of Kingsley Ben-Adir’s performance and th...
Feb 26, 2024•59 min
On this episode of the CULTURE POP PODCAST, Mase & Sue start with a SAG Awards preview, then lots of laughs with good pal Bryan Cranston. They talk to him about his new film, ARGYLLE, his bevvy of bad guy roles, working with visionary directors Matthew Vaughn and Wes Anderson, his approach to staying in character during breaks between scenes, his reunion request for the cast of THE OFFICE, the contrast between Steve Carell and Ricky Gervais, the extraordinary communal viewing of BREAKING BAD...
Feb 20, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Tragically, opposition leader Alexei Navalny has died in a Russian prison. He bravely fought for freedom for his country, but his life was cut short by authoritarian dictator Vladmir Putin. Last year, the documentary, NAVALNY won the Academy Award for Best Documentary. It is now more important than ever to see it. Director Daniel Roher & journalist Christo Grozev joined the podcast last year to talk about Navalny's life and the making of the film.
Feb 17, 2024•22 min
Actor Gideon Glick joins Mase & Sue to talk about his role as Tommy Cothran in the Oscar nominated film MAESTRO. We discuss acting opposite director Bradley Cooper, the abundance of improvising, their unconventional communication in between scenes and the use of Panavision. Also, being cast in the original production of the groundbreaking Broadway musical, SPRING AWAKENING, the compelling HBO reunion documentary, working with Aaron Sorkin in his staged adaptation of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, ou...
Feb 13, 2024•53 min
Actor Chyler Leigh joins Mase & Sue to discuss her Hallmark Channel time travel drama series, THE WAY HOME. We talk about the personal connection with her character, her executive producer role, the challenges of Zoom auditions, her breakout role in the cult classic NOT ANOTHER TEEN MOVIE, how she went public with her mental health issues and the work she’s done to help others. Plus, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s alleged CIA love connection and the obsession with their relationship, Mase’s...
Feb 06, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Actor John Magaro joins Mase & Sue to discuss his role in the Oscar-nominated film, PAST LIVES. They talk about his shared personal connection with director Celine Song, her brave filmmaking debut, rules she laid out on set, the complex relationship between the main characters, the challenges of shooting an indie film, working with minimalist director/screenwriter Kelly Reichardt on FIRST COW, the tricks of cinematographer Chris Blauvelt’s trade, what all great auteurs have in common, and th...
Jan 30, 2024•1 hr 12 min
Mase & Sue reveal their favorite movies of 2023. Then Actor/Writer Bryan Greenberg joins to discuss his directorial debut, JUNCTION, a film he also wrote and stars in, about the modern-day opioid crisis in America, premiering on January 26. We talk about his personal connection to the subject matter, the process of finding the means to make the film, the research it entailed, mentors that helped him along the way, and the movies that inspired his vision. We also chat about how he got Griffin...
Jan 23, 2024•56 min
Actor/comedian/writer Chris Estrada returns to the CULTURE POP PODCAST to talk with Mase & Sue about Season 2 of his HULU hit series THIS FOOL. They discuss the darker turn the show takes, the hysterical minutiae, the casting of co-star Frankie Quinones, the old school inspiration for their character’s relationship, working with Michael Imperioli, his punk museum takeover, being featured Esquire magazine, his rise from warehouse worker to being recognized, incorporating his real life, and th...
Jan 16, 2024•50 min
On this episode of the CULTURE POP PODCAST, entertainment reporter, host of PEOPLE IN 10, Makho Ndlovu joins Mase & Sue to talk about the Emmys. Will JURY DUTY be the Cinderella story spoiler? Can anyone beat Jeremy Allen White for best actor? Will Quinta Brunson add an elusive acting Emmy to her collection? Is SUCCESSION a shoo in? Great performances by Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey in THE LAST OF US, Bob Odenkirk due for best actor in BETTER CALL SAUL and Jeremy Strong’s very method style ...
Jan 11, 2024•36 min
What’s a day in the life of a theater actor? Will Brill joins Mase & Sue on the CULTURE POP PODCAST to talk about his stage career & his role as the ruthless Roy Cohn in the Golden Globe-nominated limited series FELLOW TRAVELERS. They discuss the challenge of portraying a despicable character, the bizarre science fiction, fantasy mystery drama THE OA, working with brilliant creator/showrunner Amy Sherman-Palladino and Dan Palladino on THE MARVELOUS MRS. MAISEL, Pittsburgh grub, love of d...
Jan 09, 2024•57 min
On this Episode of the CULTURE POP PODCAST Mase & Sue go solo for the last show of 2023. Great conversation about holiday spirit entertainment, LAWRY’s restaurant and what the hell is a medium rare plus steak? Plus, their takes on a few of our favorite and not so favorite films, including PAST LIVES starring Greta Lee, MAY/DECEMBER with Julianne Moore, Natalie Portman and Charles Melton, RUSTIN with Colman Domingo in the title role. Also, the final season of CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, it’s legacy...
Jan 04, 2024•37 min
Broadway, Film and TV star Da’Vine Joy Randolph joins Mase & Sue on the CULTURE POP PODCAST to discuss her Golden Globe-nominated role in Alexander Payne’s warm and brilliantly written film, THE HOLDOVERS. We talk about her love of Turner Classic Movies, Bette Davis’ inspiration for a specific character choice, the mutual trust between actor and director, working with Dominic Sessa in his first feature film, and the dynamic on set with Steve Martin and Martin Short in ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUI...
Jan 02, 2024•32 min
On this episode of the CULTURE POP PODCAST actor Matthew Goode and director Matthew Brown join Sue & me to talk about their new provocative film, FREUD’S LAST SESSION, an imaginary conversation between C.S. Lewis and Sigmund Freud as they debate the existence of God. We discuss adapting a stage play to the screen, how the movie mirrors the world today, the irony of working opposite Anthony Hopkins, who portrayed Goode’s character in Richard Attenborough’s biographical film, SHADOWLANDS, find...
Dec 19, 2023•50 min
Showrunner Ron Nyswaner joins Mase & Sue on the CULTURE POP PODCAST to talk about his masterful adaptation of Thomas Mallon’s novel, FELLOW TRAVELERS, Showtime’s historical romance political thriller starring Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey. He shares the rules he set with his writing staff, the creative behind the intimate, honest sex scenes, the significance of the end credits songs, studio executive notes, and the importance of casting gay actors. We also discuss his Academy award winning ...
Dec 12, 2023•1 hr 12 min
On this episode CULTURE POP PODCAST, Mase & Sue delve into the colorful career of filmmaker Andrew Jenks. From creating a film festival at the age of 16, HBO’s bittersweet documentary, ROOM 335 – his life in an assisted living facility, the inspiring MTV doc series, WORLD OF JENKS to the Village Voice endorsed, “Must-see wrongful conviction doc,” Dream/Killer. We also discuss his latest feature, BILLION DOLLAR BABIES: THE TRUE STORY OF THE CABBAGE PATCH KIDS, narrated by Neil Patrick Harris....
Dec 07, 2023•1 hr 2 min
Screenwriter/Producer/Director Brian Helgeland joins Mase & Sue on the CULTURE POP PODCAST to discuss the road in making his latest film, FINESTKIND, streaming on Paramount+. It is a semi-autobiographical crime thriller starring Tommy Lee Jones, Ben Foster, Toby Wallace and Jenna Ortega. We also talk about his Academy Award-winning adapted screenplay, LA CONFIDENTIAL, his long-standing friendship with author James Ellroy, his scripts for MYSTIC RIVER, & 42, working with Chadwick Bozeman,...
Dec 05, 2023•53 min
Comedian Rita Rudner joins Mase & Sue on the CULTURE POP PODCAST to discuss her path to becoming a stand-up, why she ditched her Broadway dance career, Woody Allen and Jack Benny’s impact on her joke writing, the dynamic of penning scripts with producer husband, Martin Bergman, how he influenced her elegant style of dress on stage and an encounter with former NY Knick, Spencer Hayward. Plus, a ukulele event involving Grace Slick and how quarterback Patrick Mahome’s lucky underwear launched i...
Nov 28, 2023•45 min
