Rewind: Fear The Walking Dead

Join us for another installment of The Films That Defined Genre in the 1980s as we celebrate one of the greatest adventure films ever made, Steven Spielberg's Raiders of the Lost Ark. More than four decades after its release, Indiana Jones's first big-screen adventure remains a benchmark for action, spectacle, practical effects, and old-fashioned serial storytelling. In this episode, we journey behind the scenes of the movie that introduced audiences to Harrison Ford's fedora-wearing archaeologist. We explore the fascinating casting decisions that brought Indiana Jones, Marion Ravenwood, and Belloq to life, along with Steven Spielberg and George Lucas's shared vision for creating a modern-day homage to the pulp adventure serials they loved as children. We also take a deep dive into the film's ambitious production, from the challenging desert locations in Tunisia to the elaborate life-sized sets constructed for the Peruvian temple sequence. Discover how the production team crafted some of cinema's most iconic moments, including the unforgettable giant rolling boulder. Originally conceived to be 65 feet wide, the fiberglass, plaster, and wood prop was ultimately reduced to 22 feet, weighing approximately 300 pounds while still delivering one of the most suspenseful opening scenes in movie history. The episode also looks at the groundbreaking practical and visual effects that helped make Raiders of the Lost Ark a landmark achievement. From the terrifying supernatural climax involving the Ark of the Covenant to the film's breathtaking stunts and miniature work, we'll examine how the filmmakers created movie magic before the era of digital filmmaking. Along the way, we uncover some of the film's most entertaining behind-the-scenes stories and trivia: During Belloq's confrontation with the captured Indy, a fly landed on actor Paul Freeman's lip while cameras were rolling. Rather than break character, Freeman continued the scene uninterrupted. Although audiences often believe the insect was swallowed, Freeman later clarified that it simply flew away. The memorable classroom scene featuring a student revealing "Love You" written on her eyelids was an improvised addition during filming. Karen Allen and Paul Freeman collaborated on the idea that Marion would outdrink Belloq rather than attempt to seduce him, creating a far more memorable and character-driven sequence. Composer John Williams spent several weeks developing the heroic Indiana Jones theme that would become the legendary "Raiders March," one of the most recognizable film scores ever written. The interior chambers of the Peruvian temple were constructed as full-sized sets, allowing Spielberg to create a tangible sense of danger and discovery. Many of the film's greatest moments were achieved practically, contributing to the timeless look and feel that continues to captivate audiences today. Whether you're a lifelong Indiana Jones fan or discovering the film for the first time, this episode celebrates the creativity, craftsmanship, and imagination that made Raiders of the Lost Ark one of the defining genre films of the 1980s and a lasting influence on adventure cinema. Subscribe To Plus For Black Friday Savings  

On this episode, I chatted with Jason Liles, the talented motion capture performer behind George, the lovable albino gorilla at the heart of Rampage. Based on the hit video game, Rampage follows a primatologist and a geneticist as they race to stop three animals infected by a dangerous pathogen from devastating Chicago. While the spectacle is massive, one of the film's greatest strengths is the emotional connection between George and Davis Okoye, played by Dwayne Johnson. Jason discusses the unique challenge of bringing George to life through motion capture and the extensive preparation required to create a believable ape performance. He shares how he studied gorilla behavior and movement, learning to embody the physicality and personality of the character while still conveying emotion and intelligence. SAVE ON SCI-FI TALK PLUS BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL  

Mo Collins from Fear the Walking Dead to discuss the powerful episode "Breathe With Me." Mo reflects on becoming part of the ever-expanding Walking Dead Universe and the creative choices involved in bringing her character to life. We talk about finding authentic moments within a world constantly defined by survival, loss, and hope, while ensuring her character remained relatable to viewers. Mo provides an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the series and offers insight into the decisions that help make each Fear the Walking Dead episode feel both personal and connected to the larger universe.   Take Advantage Of The Low Prices for Sci-Fi Talk Plus Black Friday Specials    

Killswitch remains a fascinating blend of science fiction, social commentary, and suspense. In this vintage interview, comic creators Jeffrey and Susan Bridges take us inside a future where extraordinary gifts become tools of control, and those born with clairvoyant abilities find themselves caught between power and exploitation.   What happens when the ability to see beyond the present becomes a commodity? In this vintage interview, we sit down with comic creators Jeffrey and Susan Bridges, co-creators of Killswitch, a thought-provoking science fiction series set in a future where individuals known as Augers possess clairvoyant abilities. Rather than being celebrated, these gifted individuals are often manipulated, exploited, and used by powerful interests seeking to profit from their unique talents. Jeffrey and Susan explore the origins of Killswitch, the world-building behind its dystopian future, and the ethical questions at the heart of the story. We discuss how society might react to people with extraordinary abilities, the dangers of institutional control, and why science fiction remains such a powerful lens for examining real-world issues. From creating compelling characters to crafting a future that feels both imaginative and unsettlingly plausible, this conversation offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of an ambitious comic book universe. Black Friday Is Here Save On Plus 99 cents a month    

What if the wreckage of an alien spacecraft didn't just crash to Earth, but fundamentally altered reality itself? On this episode of Byte, we revisit the short-lived but ambitious science fiction series Debris, a mystery-driven drama centered on fragments from an alien spacecraft scattered across the globe. Each piece of debris possesses strange and unpredictable properties, capable of bending the laws of physics, altering perception, and transforming the lives of anyone who comes into contact with it. Joining me are Norbert Leo Butz, who portrayed the enigmatic Craig Maddox, and Scroobius Pip, who played the mysterious cult leader Anson Ash. Together, we explore the show's blend of science fiction, conspiracy, and human drama, along with the complex motivations behind two of its most intriguing characters. Save On Black Friday Special Sci-Fi Talk Plus   

The world of Panem came to Berlin as fans gathered for a special screening of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. On this episode of Byte, we head to the red carpet to hear from the cast and filmmakers bringing one of Suzanne Collins' most anticipated stories to life. Featuring interviews with Joseph Zada, who steps into the iconic role of a young Haymitch Abernathy, Whitney Peak, who portrays Lenore Dove, producer Nina Jacobson, and director Francis Lawrence, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the latest chapter in The Hunger Games saga. Audio courtesy of Lionsgate. Black Friday Savings On Sci-Fi Talk Plus  

In this episode, I welcome Tony Curran, who portrays the legendary Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat, in Outlander: Blood Of My Blood. Focusing on the episode "The Dance," Tony discusses the complex motivations behind one of the Highlands' most notorious historical figures and explores how his version of Lord Lovat fits into the larger Outlander universe. Tony talks about Lord Lovat's growing interest in Margaret Grant, played by Erin Shanagher, and how that relationship reveals unexpected layers beneath the character's calculating exterior. We also explore the fascinating challenge of portraying the real-life Simon Fraser, known throughout history as "The Old Fox." Tony shares whether his performance was influenced more by the historical figure's reputation or by the established portrayal of Lord Lovat previously seen in the original Outlander series. Another major topic is one of the episode's most controversial moments: Lord Lovat giving Ellen MacKenzie a potion intended to prevent her from having any more children. Tony discusses the scene's impact, what it reveals about Lovat's ambitions and worldview, and why it remains such a powerful talking point among fans. Get the commercial-free version of this podcast on Sci-Fi Talk Plus, along with the video companion interview featuring two clips from the episode. For just 99 cents a month, or less than $10 for an entire year, you'll get exclusive content and bonus features. New subscribers can also enjoy one month free. Subscribe here Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to follow Sci-Fi Talk for more conversations with the actors, creators, and storytellers bringing science fiction, fantasy, and genre entertainment to life.    

Before the apocalypse became a global phenomenon, Fear The Walking Dead took viewers back to the very beginning. In this special episode of Rewind, we revisit Season One through a collection of fascinating roundtable interviews recorded at San Diego Comic-Con with the cast and creative team who helped launch The Walking Dead's first companion series. Join us as we hear from Cliff Curtis, Kim Dickens, Frank Dillane, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Mercedes Mason, Rubén Blades, Greg Nicotero, Dave Erickson, and Gale Anne Hurd as they reflect on introducing audiences to a world where the rules of survival had yet to be written. Black Friday Special For Sci-Fi Talk Plus only 99 cents a month  

For this special Halloween edition of Rewind, actress Valerie Pettiford joins the podcast to look back at her memorable role in A Discovery of Witches. As one of the maternal figures helping guide young witch Diana Bishop through a world of magic, secrets, and destiny, Pettiford brought warmth, wisdom, and strength to the acclaimed fantasy series. In this conversation, Valerie reflects on joining the richly imagined world of witches, vampires, and daemons, working alongside a talented ensemble cast, and how the show's themes of family, mentorship, and self-discovery continue to resonate with audiences. She also discusses the special bond between her character and Diana, helping shape the journey of a young woman coming into her extraordinary powers. As part of our Halloween celebration, we explore what makes A Discovery of Witches such a perfect seasonal watch, blending supernatural intrigue, romance, historical mystery, and spellbinding storytelling. Valerie shares behind-the-scenes memories, insights into her performance, and why the series remains a fan favorite years after its debut. Step into a world where magic is real, ancient secrets are waiting to be uncovered, and family can come from the most unexpected places. Subscribe to Plus for exclusive commericial free podcasts and videos. It's Black Friday.  

Few actors have left a mark on Star Trek quite like Sir Patrick Stewart. In this special Trek Tuesday episode, I revisit three unforgettable roundtable sessions I attended with the legendary actor across the Star Trek: The Next Generation movie era, offering a fascinating snapshot of both Captain Picard's evolution and Stewart's own reflections on the franchise. Drawing from conversations surrounding Star Trek: First Contact, Star Trek: Insurrection, and Star Trek: Nemesis, Stewart discusses the origins of Captain Jean-Luc Picard and how the character developed into one of science fiction's most respected leaders. The conversation then moves to Star Trek: First Contact, where Stewart shares his thoughts on the film and addresses a question I asked in 1996 about whether he would consider directing again.  For Star Trek: Insurrection, Stewart discusses where Picard was emotionally and professionally at that point in the character's life. Turning to Star Trek: Nemesis, Stewart examines the growing sense that the movie could represent the end of the Next Generation crew's big-screen adventures. The episode concludes with Stewart sharing stories about improvised moments during the making of Nemesis, revealing how spontaneity and collaboration helped shape key scenes A emarkable personal journey  for me through the Next Generation movie years as Sir Patrick Stewart reflects on Picard, filmmaking, and the enduring legacy of one of science fiction's greatest characters.