In a fresh offering for film enthusiasts, the podcast ‘Screen Players’ aims to provide behind-the-scenes insights into some of the most iconic films of all time. Launching alongside exclusive film screenings, this series promises to be a deep dive into the creative processes of cinema’s greatest minds.
A New Experience for Film Lovers
The Screen Players podcast, spearheaded by The Script Factory, is set to revolutionize how film aficionados connect with iconic cinema. The series blends live screening events with in-depth podcast interviews featuring renowned directors, writers, and actors. The show will unveil the personal and often untold stories behind the making of critically acclaimed films.
The first event kicks off with a special screening of the documentary Marianne & Leonard: Words of Love at The Cinema in the Power Station, Battersea, on Monday, October 7. This documentary delves into the powerful love story between the legendary singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen and his Norwegian muse, Marianne Ihlen.
A Star-Studded Premiere Event
Following the screening, Nick Broomfield, the British filmmaker behind the documentary, will join Charlotte Bogard Macleod, co-director of The Script Factory, for a live interview. This dynamic conversation will explore how Broomfield’s deeply personal film came to be, from conceptualization to production, offering an intimate look at the making of this emotionally charged documentary.
In a special musical treat, Dan Smith, the lead singer of Bastille, will also take the stage. Smith will perform his new track Leonard & Marianne, which was inspired by the documentary and will feature on his upcoming album & (Ampersand), releasing on October 25.
A Deep Dive Into Iconic Filmmaking
The live podcast interview series doesn’t end there. It is just the beginning of an exciting lineup of discussions that will continue to explore iconic films through the eyes of their creators. Over the course of the series, Charlotte will interview a range of distinguished guests, including:
- Simon Beaufoy on Slumdog Millionaire
- Rebecca Lenkiewicz on She Said
- Kevin Macdonald on Touching the Void
- Hossein Amini on Drive
- Molly Manning Walker on How to Have Sex
Each episode will offer unique insights into the creative process, from the inspirations behind a film to the complexities of bringing it to life on the screen.
Personal Connections Drive the Series
Charlotte’s long-standing collaboration with Dan Smith brings a personal touch to the Screen Players series. The two have worked together before, most notably on the immersive theatrical experience Still Avoiding Tomorrow, which was created for the release of Bastille’s third album, Doom Days.
Their creative synergy flourished during the COVID-19 lockdown, leading to the successful Distraction Tactics Film Club, an online initiative that explored classic and contemporary films. It was this shared passion for cinema that spurred the idea for Screen Players.
Reflecting on the series, Charlotte said, “The world sure as hell doesn’t need another podcast. But what we are doing here is more than just another podcast. Screen Players is about celebrating the craft of filmmaking and giving fans an inside look at how some of the most unforgettable films have come to life.”
What Makes ‘Screen Players’ Unique?
In a sea of film podcasts, Screen Players stands out for its commitment to intimate, in-depth conversations with cinema legends. Each guest will share anecdotes, memories, and insights that go beyond what fans typically hear in standard press interviews. The podcast aims to transport listeners behind the camera, exploring everything from the initial concept to the final cut.
Charlotte elaborated on the mission of the series:
“Anyone who loves film has probably imagined being on set, watching a director or writer at work, and seeing how everything comes together. That’s the magic we want to share. How are great screenplays written? What is the experience of piecing a film together, scene by scene? And what does it take for a film to resonate with audiences for years to come?”
Behind the Curtain: Revealing the Craft of Cinema
The Screen Players podcast is all about stripping away the glamour of Hollywood to reveal the hard work, passion, and creativity that goes into making films. From script development to post-production, each episode will delve into the intricacies of filmmaking and what it takes to create a cinematic masterpiece.
Some of the planned upcoming episodes and guests include:
- Nick Broomfield & Dan Smith on Marianne & Leonard: Words of Love
- Simon Beaufoy on Slumdog Millionaire (November 25)
- John Madden on Shakespeare in Love
- Rebecca Lenkiewicz on She Said
- Kevin Macdonald on Touching the Void
- Hossein Amini on Drive
- Sam Mendes on 1917
- George MacKay on Ned Kelly
- Jon Ronson on Okja
- Tom Tykwer on Run Lola Run
- Molly Manning Walker on How to Have Sex
Unforgettable Moments in Cinema Explored
Whether it’s understanding the grueling process of filming under extreme conditions, such as in 1917, or gaining insight into how a screenwriter transforms a book into a gripping screenplay, Screen Players promises to leave no stone unturned. The series offers something for everyone—from aspiring filmmakers to passionate cinephiles—making it a must-listen for anyone who loves cinema.
Upcoming Screenings and Live Events
As part of the podcast’s innovative format, each episode will be paired with exclusive film screenings. After the screening, live podcast interviews will take place, allowing audience members to witness firsthand the discussions that fuel each podcast episode.
The next event is scheduled for November 25, when Simon Beaufoy will discuss his work on Slumdog Millionaire. Tickets for all screenings and live podcasts will be available on the official The Script Factory website.
A Journey Into the Creative Minds Behind Films
The Screen Players podcast and screening series are more than just events—they are an exploration of what makes great films great. By peeling back the layers of the filmmaking process, this podcast promises to deliver engaging, informative, and inspiring content for film lovers everywhere.
Join the Conversation
The first episode of Screen Players will be available from October 28 on all major podcast platforms, with new episodes released every fortnight. Whether you’re tuning in for the fascinating stories behind your favorite films or attending the live events, Screen Players is set to be an unforgettable addition to the podcasting landscape for film geeks.
