Imani Davis on the PROOF FILM FESTIVAL

Welcome to Following Films, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of independent cinema and the filmmakers who bring these stories to life. I'm your host, Chris Maynard, and today, we have a fantastic conversation lined up.Joining me is Imani Davis, a key figure behind the Proof Film Festival, a groundbreaking event dedicated to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking films. We’ll be discussing what makes this festival unique, the kind of films audiences can expect, and how it’s creating new opportunities for emerging filmmakers.Be sure to check out the festival at www.prooffilmfestival.com for more details on screenings, events, and how you can be part of this exciting cinematic experience.Now, let’s jump into the conversation with Imani Davis!

Few songs capture the raw energy of the 1980s quite like Maniac, the electrifying hit made famous by Michael Sembello in the classic film Flashdance. Now, decades later, the punk-infused power of Tess and The Details is giving this beloved track a fresh, high-voltage revival.In this episode of The Following Films, we sit down with the band to dive into their bold reimagining of Maniac—exploring what drew them to the song, how they infused their signature sound into the arrangement, and what it means to bring new life to an ‘80s anthem. From studio insights to the personal connections they have with the track, this conversation peels back the layers of their creative process and the thrill of covering a song that still gets hearts racing today.So, turn up the volume and get ready—because Tess and The Details are here to prove that Maniac is more alive than ever!

Welcome to The Following Films Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of cinema, storytelling, and the creative minds behind it all. I’m your host, Chris Maynard, and on today’s episode, we’re exploring the fascinating intersection of horror and documentary storytelling.Joining me is acclaimed author Elizabeth Hand, here to discuss her participation in FIRST WORD ON HORROR—a gripping new documentary horror series available to stream on Substack. This series features intimate and insightful interviews with some of the genre’s most compelling voices, including Stephen Graham Jones, Paul Tremblay, and, of course, Elizabeth Hand herself.To watch her episode and explore more from FIRST WORD ON HORROR, head over to etchstudio.substack.com.

Welcome to Following Films, the podcast where we explore the art and craft of filmmaking through conversations with the people who bring movies to life. I'm your host, Chris Maynard, and today, we’re diving into the haunting and atmospheric world of The Silent Planet (2024), a sci-fi thriller that blends psychological tension with existential dread.Directed by Jeffrey St. Jules, The Silent Planet follows two inmates sentenced to a lifetime of hard labor on a remote world. As isolation takes its toll, their grip on reality begins to slip, forcing them to confront the past they’ve tried to forget. It’s a film that raises deep questions about memory, identity, and what it means to be truly alone.In this episode, I sit down with Jeffrey St. Jules to discuss the inspiration behind the film, its unique approach to storytelling, and how they crafted such an immersive, otherworldly experience.

Welcome to Following Films, the podcast where we explore the crossroads of film, literature, and everything in between. Today, I’m joined by the incredible Paul Tremblay—acclaimed horror author of The Pallbearers Club and The Cabin at the End of the World, the novel that became M. Night Shyamalan’s Knock at the Cabin.We dive into his hauntingly brilliant work, his love of punk rock, and his involvement in the upcoming documentary series First Word on Horror. Plus, in a fun twist of fate, we chat about how he ended up with a t-shirt from a used bookstore in Tucson—the very one that happens to sponsor this show.For more on First Word on Horror, be sure to visit etchstudio.substack.com/s/first-word-on-horror.Strange coincidences, chilling stories, and a bit of rock ‘n’ roll—let’s get into it!

Thank you for listening to the Following Films podcast, today I’m joined by Graham Young of Michigan RattlersFollowing the release of their brilliant third studio album, Waving From A Sea, Michigan Rattlers have hit the road for an intimate set of club dates. On their pivotal new Dominic John Davis produced record (Jack White, Willie Nelson, Greensky Bluegrass), the Michigan-based rock & roll band with a blend of folk, American and country influences, pairs the heavy hitting lyricism they’re known for with a newfound sonic depth, evolving alongside the characters in their songs.2/28 – San Francisco, CA – Brick + Mortar3/1 – Los Angeles, CA – The Peppermint Club3/2 – San Diego, CA – Casbah3/4 – Phoenix, AZ – Last Exit Live3/7 – Austin, TX – 3Ten at ACL LiveFor more information, please visit www.michiganrattlers.com.

Welcome to The Following Films Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of cinema with the filmmakers, writers, and artists bringing incredible stories to life.Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by the talented Peter Hastings, the writer and director of the animated adaptation of Dog Man, which is currently in theaters and available on VOD. Peter has had an incredible career in animation, working on beloved projects like Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness and Pinky and the Brain. Now, he’s brought Dav Pilkey’s beloved graphic novel series to the big screen in a way that has delighted fans of all ages—including my son, Jacob.Jacob is such a huge fan of Dog Man that I thought it would be fitting for him to ask the very first question.

Welcome to the Following Films Podcast, where we explore the world of filmmaking with the creative minds behind today’s most exciting projects. I’m your host, Chris Maynard, and today, we’re diving deep into something truly special.On this episode, I’m joined by writer-director Spider One and actor-producer Krsy Fox to talk about their latest horror film, Little Bites. If you’re a fan of dark, thought-provoking horror, this one’s for you.Little Bites tells the chilling story of Mindy, a mother sacrificing herself—literally—to protect her daughter from a flesh-eating monster. With a cast that includes horror legends Barbara Crampton, Heather Langenkamp, Bonnie Aarons, and a story that cuts deep into the struggles of parenthood.Spider One, known for Allegoria, brings a deeply personal story to life in this film, while Krsy Fox delivers a powerhouse performance. Plus, with Cher herself onboard as an executive producer, Little Bites is shaping up to be a must-watch horror event.So, let’s dig in and hear from Spider One and Krsy Fox about what went into making Little Bites, the horror of parenting, and why this film will leave audiences hungry for more.

Welcome to another episode of the Following Films Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Stephen Graham Jones, celebrated author, and horror mastermind, to discuss his recent participation in the documentary series First Word on Horror. We’ll unpack his unique perspective on the genre, I ask highly specific questions about The Only Good Indians, and we chat about Wes Craven’s iconic Scream, a film that redefined the slasher genre—along with some fun tangents, including my (possibly) miscredited nod to the house from Wes Craven’s New Nightmare. Is that Mike Deluccas's house? So sit back, relax, and join us for a conversation full of surprises, insights, and, of course, a little horror.For more information on First Word on Horror, visit ⁠https://etchstudio.substack.com/

Welcome to The Following Films Podcast, where we explore the minds behind the movies that move us.On today’s episode, I’m joined by Emmy and WGA-winning writer and filmmakerPhilip Gelatt to discuss his latest project,FIRST WORD ON HORROR—a fifteen-part documentary series that delves into the lives, inspirations, and writing philosophies of five of the most celebrated horror authors working today.This season, the series spotlightsStephen Graham Jones, Paul Tremblay, Elizabeth Hand, Laird Barron, and Mariana Enriquez, taking us on a journey from the icy peril of the Iditarod to the shadows of Argentina’s past, from the raw energy of the early DC punk scene to the eerie isolation of the Montana wilderness. Along the way, these authors share their stories—both real and imagined—blurring the lines between fact and fiction and offering a rare glimpse into the alchemy of storytelling.Philip, whose work includesThe Spine of Night, Europa Report, They Remain, andLove, Death + Robots, brings his unique vision to this literary love letter to horror, writing, and the sheer power of a well-told tale.So sit back, listen in, and join me as I talk withPhilip Gelatt about the making ofFIRST WORD ON HORROR.For more information, visithttps://etchstudio.substack.com/