Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi
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- Tananarive Due on Writing Black Panther: Sins Of The King (00:42:02)
What happens when the King of Wakanda must confront not only an army of undead but also the ghosts of his own past? In Black Panther: Sins of the Father, T’Challa strives to embody excellence—as a fair and worthy king, a global citizen, and an Avenger. But when Wakanda faces its most chilling threat yet, The Black Panther turns to his long-lost father in a battle against forces that test his leadership, his legacy, and his humanity. In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed author Tananarive Due to explore how she brought this gripping Marvel story to life. A former journalist turned award-winning novelist, Due is celebrated for her African Immortals and Tennyson Hardwick series, and has been honored with the American Book Award, Carl Brandon Award, Theodore Sturgeon Memorial Award, and multiple Bram Stoker Awards. Her work blends horror, history, and Afrofuturism to illuminate the human condition through genre storytelling. You’ll also hear excerpts from the audio adaptation, performed by The Good Place’s William Jackson Harper, who voices every character with electrifying depth. On Plus, A Black Friday Special
- Gary Anthony Williams on Voicing Rovender in WondLa (00:07:41)
A cantankerous alien, a found family, and a war that changes everything. In this episode, I zoomed with actor and voice legend Gary Anthony Williams, who brings the complex and beloved character Rovender to life in Apple TV+’s animated sci-fi series WondLa. From his gruff wisdom to his unexpected tenderness, Rovender is more than just Eva’s alien companion—he’s a symbol of survival, transformation, and reluctant hope. 🧬 Highlights from the Conversation Rovender & Eva: A Found-Family Bond Gary reflects on the emotional arc between Rovender and Eva Creating Rovender’s Voice The voice of Rovender wasn’t born in a booth— Season 3: The War Between Aliens and Humans As WondLa enters its final season, the stakes rise dramatically. Gary teases the escalating conflict between humans and Orbona’s alien species. Available now on Plus. Behind The Curtain on Predator Badlands with interviews and two clips
- Byte Lea Thompson On Back To The Future (00:05:18)
The Back To The Future star looks back at playing different versions of McFlys.
- Byte Resident Evil Death Island (00:04:15)
Matthew Mercer, Nicole Tompkins and Stephanie Panisello talk about what voice actors do recording fight scenes,
- Rewind: “Turning the Wheel Of Time : A Season One Retrospective” (00:21:26)
In this special episode, we journey back to the beginning of Amazon Prime Video’s The Wheel of Time, revisiting the emotional stakes, character awakenings, and epic world-building that launched the series. Featuring interviews with Zoë Robins, Madeleine Madden, Josha Stradowski, and Marcus Rutherford, we explore how Season One set the tone for a saga of destiny, power, and transformation. 🔮 Episode Overview Season One of The Wheel of Time introduced viewers to the sprawling fantasy world inspired by Robert Jordan’s legendary book series. From the quiet village of Two Rivers to the mysterious White Tower, the season followed five young villagers whose lives are upended when Moiraine, an Aes Sedai, reveals that one of them may be the Dragon Reborn—a figure destined to either save or destroy the world. This episode reflects on: The emotional and physical demands of filming Season One The character arcs of Nynaeve, Egwene, Rand, and Perrin Behind-the-scenes stories from the cast How the cast connected with their characters and each other The legacy of Season One as a foundation for the series Look for Bonus Video on Plus
- Frankenstein, Changes To Fallout, New Series Pluribus Highlight November Explore Monthy (00:11:53)
Now a monthly edition with news on sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and comics this November has the following Reviews From The Running Man Frankenstein Crafting A Tale Eternal Exhibit Pluribus with star and showrunner Colin Farrell on Penguin Season Two Welcome To Derry had challenges after strikes Changes To Fallout Season Two New Documentary on Exorcist: The Hertic This month's list : Best Time Travel TV Shows And More..... Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today - A Black Friday Special
- Kevin Conroy – The Voice of the Dark Knight (00:41:46)
In this episode of Game Changers, a compilation of interviews with the legendary Kevin Conroy, the definitive voice of Batman for generations of fans. From his formative years at Juilliard—where he shared classrooms and unforgettable memories with Robin Williams—to his groundbreaking career in animation and video games, Conroy reflects on the path that led him to embody Gotham’s greatest hero. Listeners will hear how his classical training shaped his craft, how friendships forged in those early days influenced his artistry, and how he found his way into the role that would define his career. With warmth, humor, and honesty, Conroy shares the story of becoming the voice behind the mask, and why Batman continues to resonate so deeply with audiences worldwide. 🎭 Juilliard Days: Kevin recalls the intensity of his training and the camaraderie of fellow students, including Robin Williams. 🤝 Memories of Robin Williams: Heartfelt stories of Williams’ energy, generosity, and the creative spark he brought to their shared journey. 🦇 Becoming Batman: How Conroy’s unique voice and perspective transformed the character in animation, beginning with Batman: The Animated Series. Why You Should Listen This episode is more than a career retrospective—it’s a meditation on art, friendship, and the power of storytelling. Whether you grew up with Batman: The Animated Series or discovered Conroy’s voice through the Arkham games, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the man behind the cowl.
- 🖖 Trek Tuesday: Armin Shimerman — Ferengi Wisdom and a Personal Victory (00:23:13)
This week on Trek Tuesday, Tony welcomed Armin Shimerman, the iconic actor behind Quark from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. In a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Armin reflects on his wife’s courageous and successful battle against pancreatic cancer. The episode also dives into Armin’s earliest days in the Star Trek universe, from his first appearance as a Ferengi in The Next Generation to the evolution of Quark on Deep Space Nine. With humor and insight. Check Out My Black Friday Special For Plus Pan Can
- Plus Preview: Paranormal Episode 2 — What Guides the Investigators? (00:10:20)
In this exclusive Plus preview, Tony dives into the minds of today’s leading paranormal investigators to uncover what drives them to explore the unknown. Featuring insights from Ghost Adventures’ Zak Bagans, Portals to Hell’s Katrina Weidman and Jack Osbourne, and The Ghosts of Devil’s Perch’s Dave Schrader and psychic medium Cindy Kaza, this episode explores the methods, motivations, and mysteries behind their work. From haunted prisons to cursed mining towns, these investigators share how they choose their cases, what tools they trust, and the personal experiences that fuel their search for answers. Whether guided by intuition, technology, or spiritual connection, each voice reveals a different path into the paranormal. 🎧 Available Now for Plus Subscribers Unlock the full episode to hear extended interviews, audio from investigations
- 🎭 Byte: Wicked — One Wonderful Night (00:05:46)
In this episode of Byte, Tony takes you behind the curtain of Wicked: One Wonderful Night, the electrifying live special that celebrates the world of Oz like never before. Featuring interviews with Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Jeff Goldblum, and director Jon M. Chu, this episode explores how the cast and crew brought magic to the stage—while Jon was still deep in post-production on the Wicked film. From live vocals and choreography to elaborate staging and character moments, the special is a love letter to musical theater, fandom, and the enduring spell of Wicked. 🔗 Bonus Content On Plus Plus subscribers get access to a video with interviews and clips from the special
- Predator Badlands — Buddy Bonds and Alien Tongues (00:08:34)
In this episode of Byte On, Tony goes deep into the making of Predator: Badlands with stars Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi and Elle Fanning, alongside director Dan Trachtenberg. What begins as a survival story quickly evolves into a buddy movie with teeth—literally. The trio unpack how character chemistry, predator mythology, and linguistic world-building came together to create a fresh take on the iconic franchise. With audio supplied by 20th Century Fox, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at how the team reimagined the predator’s language, built emotional stakes into the action, and honored the legacy of the hunt while pushing it into new terrain. 🔗 Bonus Content On Plus Plus subscribers get access to Behind The Curtain episode with interviews and clips
- Echoes of Middle Earth — A Musical Journey with David Arkenstone (00:31:08)
Tony chats with five-time Grammy-nominated composer David Arkenstone to explore the sonic landscapes of Music Inspired by Middle Earth. From the rolling hills of the Shire to the shadowed depths of Mordor, Arkenstone shares how he wove Celtic, orchestral, and ambient textures into a tapestry that evokes Tolkien’s world without directly quoting it. With musical samples threaded throughout the conversation, listeners are invited to experience the emotional resonance and mythic scale of Arkenstone’s compositions. The blend of styles—Celtic flutes, tribal percussion, sweeping strings—that create a timeless fantasy soundscape Reflections on the emotional core of Tolkien’s world: longing, courage, and transformation Behind-the-scenes insights into the recording process and instrumentation choices Check out my Black Friday Special For Plus
- Behind the Frames with Mac Whiting (00:26:19)
In this episode, I chatted with Mac Whiting, Supervising Animation Director at Warner Bros. Animation, for a deep dive into the artistry and precision behind rotoscoping, character performance, and the magic of collaboration. From his work on The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special to his broader philosophy on animation, Mac shares insights that blend technical mastery with creative intuition. Rotoscoping Realism Mac talks the rotoscoping process used to animate live-action performances, especially in the Guardians Holiday Special. Working with James Gunn Mac shares what it’s like collaborating with director James Gunn, describing him as “a storyteller who understands animation’s emotional potential.” Check Out my Black Friday Special
- Paranormal: Special Preview Episode (00:14:05)
In this exclusive preview of Paranormal, host Tony takes us deep into the shadows of America’s most infamous haunted sites—where history, trauma, and the unexplained collide. Featuring chilling commentary from top investigators Zak Bagans, Jack Osbourne, Katrina Weidman, and Dave Schrader, this episode sets the stage for a series that explores the emotional and supernatural echoes left behind. 🕯️ Featured Locations Linda Vista Hospital – A decaying Los Angeles relic with a reputation for intense paranormal activity. Investigators share their encounters with shadow figures and unsettling energies. Bobby Mackey’s Music World – A honky-tonk with a hellish reputation. From demonic lore to personal experiences, this Kentucky hotspot has left even seasoned investigators shaken. 🎙️ Special Guests Zak Bagans Ghost Adventures Jack Osbourne Portals To Hell Katrina Weidman Portals To Hell Complete Episode Available at Sci-Fi Talk Plus
- Lauren Ashley Carter: Duality, Identity, and the Alien Within (00:34:18)
In this hauntingly intimate conversation, we revisit a standout moment with actor and producer Lauren Ashley Carter as she unpacks the eerie elegance of her film Imitation Girl. A sci-fi parable wrapped in quiet surrealism, the film follows a woman who comes face to face with an exact replica of herself—an alien imitation that forces both versions to confront what it means to be human. 🧬 In This Episode: Embodied Duality – Carter shares how she approached playing two versions of the same woman: one grounded in the chaos of fame and identity, the other a newly-formed being discovering the world with childlike wonder. Genre as Mirror – We explore how Imitation Girl uses science fiction not for spectacle, but for introspection—asking what parts of ourselves are performative, and which are truly ours. Crafting the Alien – Carter reflects on the physical and emotional choices she made to differentiate the imitation from the original, and how silence, stillness, and vulnerability became her tools. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today
- Witchy Ways & Otherworldly Paths: A Conversation with Jane Clark” (00:32:56)
In this spellbinding episode, director Jane Clark joins us to discuss her latest film, Witchy Ways—a genre-bending tale of transformation, mystery, and magic. From the first flicker of inspiration to the final frame, Jane takes us deep into the creative cauldron behind the film. 🧙♀️ Topics Covered: Origin of the Spell: Jane shares how the idea for Witchy Ways came to her—hint: it involves a dream, a forgotten journal, and a moth. Research & Rituals: We explore the deep dive into folklore, lunar cycles, and historical witchcraft that shaped the film’s emotional and visual language. The Luna Moth’s Symbolism: More than just a visual motif, the Luna Moth becomes a spiritual guide in the story. Jane explains its role in the narrative and how it influenced the film’s color palette and pacing. Lead Chemistry: The two leads—whose names we won’t spoil here—bring a rare alchemy to the screen. Jane reflects on casting, rehearsals, and the moment she knew they were magic together. Candice Cayne’s Enchanting Performance: A standout in the film, Candice brings gravitas and friendship to her role. Jane talks about collaborating with her. Special Effects & Practical Magic: From spectral apparitions to elemental transformations, Jane breaks down how the team blended practical effects with digital wizardry to keep the magic grounded and visceral. The House as a Character: The film’s central location—a creaking Victorian with secrets in its walls—was more than a set. Jane reveals how the house was used to reflect character psychology and shift tone. VR & Horror: We close with a peek into Jane’s other project: directing a horror experience in virtual reality. She shares what it’s like to build fear in 360 degrees. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Plus, Today
- Byte Episode: “The Running Man – Rebellion, Ratings, and Redemption” (00:06:08)
In this sit-down , Byte goes behind the scenes of Paramount Pictures’ electrifying reimagining of The Running Man. With audio direct from the studio, we dive deep into the minds of the cast and director as they unpack the film’s dystopian spectacle, its emotional core, and the cultural pulse it’s tapping into. 🎬 Glen Powell – The Reluctant Hero 🧠 Coleman Domingo – The Architect of Control 💥 Katy O’Brian – The Warrior Within 🔥 Josh Brolin – The Veteran’s Edge 📺 Lee Pace – The Face of the Franchise 🎭 Michael Cera – The Unlikely Insider Start Your Free One Year Free Trial On Plus Today
- “The Running Man Rewired At NYCC (00:05:14)
Step into the neon-lit chaos of The Running Man as Byte hits the red carpet at New York Comic Con, where Paramount Pictures unveiled its bold reimagining of the cult classic. This episode features exclusive interviews with the creative minds and stars behind the film, offering a glimpse into the adrenaline-fueled spectacle and the deeper themes pulsing beneath the surface. 🎬 Glen Powell on Becoming Ben Richards Glen Powell steps into the boots of Ben Richards, a man wrongfully accused and thrust into a televised deathmatch. Powell shares how this version of The Running Man reframes the character not just as a fighter, but as a symbol of resistance against media manipulation. 📺 Lee Pace: The Star Within the Show Lee Pace brings a chilling charisma to the role of Damon Killian, the orchestrator and on-screen star of The Running Man TV show. 🎥 Edgar Wright on Directing Dystopia Director Edgar Wright talks about crafting a film that’s equal parts satire, thriller, and social commentary. Start Your Free On Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today
- Gario Cuevas on “Hazard” and the Ghosts We Dare to Wake (00:40:40)
In this episode, Tony sits down with Pixar animator Gario Cuevas to explore his haunting independent film Hazard — a supernatural thriller that trades jump scares for psychological unease. Known for his work in animation, Cuevas steps into live-action with a story that’s as emotionally charged as it is chilling. Hazard follows Jane (Joanna Kay), whose car breaks down on the edge of a quiet town. While waiting for help, she’s dared to summon a local ghost — a challenge that spirals into a disturbing encounter with the lingering presence of a mass shooter. What begins as a dare becomes a reckoning with trauma, memory, and the unseen forces that haunt forgotten places. 🎧 In this conversation: He discusses casting Joanna Kay and crafting a protagonist whose vulnerability becomes her strength. Cuevas shares how he approached the film’s central ghost — not as a monster, but as a manifestation of unresolved violence and communal fear. This episode is a thoughtful dive into how horror can illuminate the emotional scars we carry, and how genre storytelling can confront the shadows we often avoid. Hazard is a bold, unsettling film — and Cuevas’s insights reveal the care and complexity behind its creation.
- Eduardo Rodriguez on “New Blood” and Vampires in Romania (00:16:23)
In this episode, Tony chatted with director Eduardo Rodriguez to sink his teeth into Fright Night 2: New Blood, a stylish reimagining of the cult classic with a seductive twist. Filmed in the shadowy corners of Romania, this American indie horror follows high schooler Charley Brewster and his friends on a study abroad trip gone terrifyingly wrong. Their professor, the alluring Gerri Dandridge — played with icy charm by Defiance’s Jaime Murray — isn’t just grading papers… she’s hunting prey. 🎧 Topics covered in this blood-curdling conversation: Eduardo’s experience casting a fresh ensemble and working with Jaime Murray to craft a vampire who’s both elegant and lethal. Behind-the-scenes stories from shooting in Romania — from gothic architecture to eerie landscapes that elevated the film’s atmosphere. The new supernatural twist: a unique ability Gerri possesses that sets her apart from traditional vampires and deepens the film’s mythology. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Plus, Today
- Leigh Janiak & Harry Treadaway on “Honeymoon” (00:09:50)
In this haunting throwback episode, we revisit the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of Honeymoon, the chilling debut feature from director Leigh Janiak. Joining her is star Harry Treadaway (Penny Dreadful, Mr. Mercedes), whose performance as Paul anchors the film’s descent into psychological horror. Set in a remote lakeside cabin, Honeymoon follows newlyweds Bea and Paul as their idyllic retreat spirals into dread. After a night of strange events, Paul finds Bea disoriented in the woods. What follows is a slow unraveling of identity, intimacy, and trust — a terrifying meditation on the fear that the person you love may no longer be who they seem. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today On Plus
- William Fichtner: Precision, And Presence (00:21:47)
In this special throwback episode, we sit down with the ever-compelling William Fichtner to explore the craft behind some of his most memorable roles. From covert ops to cosmic wonder, Fichtner brings a quiet intensity to every performance—and in this conversation, we unpack how he does it. 🎬 In This Episode: All the Devil’s Men – Fichtner reflects on stepping into the world of black ops and moral ambiguity, and how he approached the role of a seasoned CIA handler navigating a world of shifting loyalties. Contact – A deep dive into his portrayal of Kent, the blind astrophysicist. Fichtner shares how he spent two months preparing for the role, working with visually impaired consultants to embody Kent’s physicality and inner vision with authenticity and respect. The Dark Knight – Fichtner shares his impressions of working with Heath Ledger, describing the presence Ledger brought to set and the haunting brilliance of his Joker.
- The Expecting: Horror, Motherhood, and Mystery (00:16:04)
In this episode, Tony dives into the psychological horror series The Expecting with star AnnaSophia Robb and director Mary Harron. The story follows a young woman whose unexpected pregnancy spirals into a surreal and terrifying ordeal — blending body horror, paranoia, and questions of identity. 🎧 AnnaSophia shares how she embodied the emotional and physical unraveling of her character, navigating isolation, fear, and the uncanny. Mary Harron reflects on crafting a visual language that evokes dread without losing empathy, and how the series taps into primal anxieties around motherhood and control. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today
- Byte: “Reclaiming the Cradle: Mary Elizabeth Winstead & Maika Monroe” (00:11:02)
In this special sit-down, Byte welcomes powerhouse performers Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Maika Monroe to talk about their roles in the bold new reimagining of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. With sharp insight and infectious chemistry, the duo opens up about what drew them to this psychological thriller and how it reclaims the original’s legacy for a new generation. 🧠 Inside the Episode: What made the script irresistible: from layered characters to a fresh, feminist take on the classic Why revisiting The Hand That Rocks the Cradle in 2025 feels both risky and necessary The film’s tone: a slow-burn descent into dread, intimacy, and blurred moral lines Maika Monroe on embodying Polly — a character equal parts enigmatic, nurturing, and unnerving Their deep admiration for director Michelle Garza Cervera, and how her vision shaped every frame A celebration of the women behind the camera — from production design to editing Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today
- Byte: “Cradles and Shadows: Michelle Garza Cervera Reimagines a Thriller” (00:05:56)
In this episode of Byte, we sit down with visionary director Michelle Garza Cervera to talk about her bold and haunting reimagining of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. Known for her genre-defying work in horror and psychological drama, Cervera brings a fresh, feminist lens to the 2025 revival of the 1992 cult classic. 🌀 Inside the Episode: What drew Michelle to this project and why Cradle still resonates in today’s cultural climate Her relationship with the original film: admiration, critique, and the thrill of reinterpretation The tonal shift: how this version leans into psychological dread, maternal rage, and the blurred line between protector and predator What Mary Elizabeth Winstead brings to the role of Caitlin — a woman unraveling under the weight of grief, suspicion, and buried secrets How Maika Monroe transforms Polly into a complex, magnetic force — both a confidante and a cipher The power of collaboration: working with women across departments, from cinematography to costume design, and how that shaped the film’s emotional and visual language Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today