Cinema Yūgen

Joe Hammerstone: The Man Behind 200 Roles and Counting

Welcome to another exciting episode of Cinema Yugen, where the spotlight is on the dynamic journey of Joe Hammerstone, a versatile actor with over 200 credits to his name. From an intriguing pot-smoking delinquent to a heartwarming proud father, Joe's impressive repertoire covers an expansive array of characters, each brought to life with his distinct touch. Dive into the world of an actor whose passion for the craft started at a young age, and hear about his experiences both in front and behind the camera, from acting and stunt work to writing and cinematography.
In this compelling conversation, Joe unfolds his fascinating beginnings in the world of horror films and his evolution into a versatile actor appreciated both in independent cinema and mainstream Hollywood. Listen as he shares stories of his favorite projects, the influential figures in his career, and the cinematic icons that shaped his passion for film. With anecdotes of working beside some of Hollywood's big names like Matt Damon and George Clooney, Joe offers a glimpse into the relentless dedication and the unyielding spirit that drives his day-to-day pursuit in the film industry.
Join us for an engaging narrative filled with insights into the film industry, behind-the-scenes revelations, and the rich storytelling legacy that Joe continues to build. Don't miss this episode of Cinema Yugen, where the journey through cinema comes alive with tales of inspiration, tradition, and the ever-lasting charm of storytelling.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2278431/
 

Reviving Cinema: Domenic Migliore's Return to the Big Screen

Welcome back to another compelling episode of Cinema Yugen, where host Kent Hill catches up with Domenic Migliore. After a five-year hiatus since his last interview, Dominic returns to discuss his latest creative endeavors. Known for his distinctive style, reminiscent of influences like Jim Jarmusch and Hunter S. Thompson, Dominic delves into his latest anthology of speculative fiction, 'Frame Story.'
This captivating collection features unique narratives, including the hilarious and gripping tale of unexpected encounters with the devil in 'The Running of a Dead Horse,' and the haunting elements of 'Museum of the Dead,' a story he plans to adapt for his next film. With scripts ready and the search for financing underway, Domenic shares insights into the challenges and victories of indie film-making and how his love for storytelling keeps driving his creative pursuits.
Tune in for an exploration of the inspirations behind his stories and a sneak peek into the adventures of transforming written tales into cinematic experiences. Don't miss this episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a passion for storytelling, as Domenic and Kent reminisce and inspire new filmmakers to pursue their visions fearlessly.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3894671/
https://www.amazon.com.au/Frame-Story-Domenic-Migliore-ebook/dp/B0CSVG38WV
 

From Stuntman to Author: Eric Jacobus on Violence and Action Design

Welcome to the first episode of Cinema Yugen in 2025, where action filmmaker and motion capture stuntman Eric Jacobus joins the show with host Kent Hill to discuss his new book, "If These Fists Could Talk." Over the past 15 years, Jacobus has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry, working on projects like "God of War Ragnarok" and "Mortal Combat 1." In this episode, Jacobus not only shares his journey from a computer programming enthusiast to an industry-renowned action designer, but he also delves deep into his unique hypothesis of human violence.
Jacobus invites listeners into his intriguing world where action and violence are more than just cinematic spectacles—they are languages with rich dialects and cultural narratives. Kent and Eric dive into how different cultures portray violence in media, from the choreographed elegance of Hong Kong cinema to the symbolic nuances found in Japanese samurai films. By elucidating his theory, he offers a compelling perspective on how these cinematic styles reflect broader societal dynamics.
Listeners will be captivated as they hear about Jacobus's mental debug companion 'Quilt Man,' his experiences with violence in day-to-day life, and his innovative take on film making as a tool to decode the enigma of human combat. As Eric prepares to release his book and continues pioneering action design in film and gaming, this episode promises invaluable insights into the heart and mind of a creative genius intricately balancing storytelling with explosive physicality.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.amazon.com.au/These-Fists-Could-Talk-Unflinching/dp/B0DLP7SWQJ
https://www.youtube.com/@EricJacobusOfficial
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2009674/
 

Behind the Score: John Ottman's Cinematic Odyssey

Join us for a captivating foray into the world of film composition and editing with the Academy Award-winning powerhouse, John Ottman. In this revealing episode, we share a rare and unfiltered conversation with Ottman—exploring his roots, his collaboration with Bryan Singer, and his unparalleled journey from a childhood passion to becoming a revered maestro in cinema.
Uncover the challenges and triumphs that accompanied Ottman as he navigated the intricate layers of film-making, from the formidable music scores of the X-Men series to the emotional landscapes of Bohemian Rhapsody. Discover how Ottman's unique skills as both an editor and composer have allowed him to shape the auditory world of film, merging thrilling soundscapes with intense storylines for some of Hollywood's biggest blockbusters.
With candid storytelling, Ottman shares the struggles of balancing dual roles in cinema, the influence of masters like John Williams on his work, and the importance of trust in his long-standing partnership with director Bryan Singer. This episode promises an insightful look into the dedication and artistry required to harmonize cinematic visuals with evocative sound, offering listeners an unforgettable glimpse behind the scenes of movie magic.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0653211/
 

Punk Shark: The New King of Sharksploitation

Get ready to plunge into the unparalleled realm of sharksploitation with the upcoming release of "Punk Shark." This episode unravels the creative journey behind this thrilling new entry that promises to redefine the genre. Meet James Simon, the visionary filmmaker who brings to life a world where robotic sharks and hellish creatures coexist in a battle for Earth.
Listen as James shares his inspiring creative process and the birth of "Punk Shark," blending diverse elements from cinematic legends like "Buckaroo Banzai," "Escape from New York," and "RoboCop." Explore the challenges of crafting an indie film in a small town, where the passion for the project surmounts every obstacle.
Discover the universe that awaits you, from the innovative crowdfunding campaign to the carefully crafted animation, and the all-star indie cast led by John Migliore. James offers a glimpse into the storytelling techniques and immersive experiences that await backers and fans.
Join us as we celebrate the creativity behind "Punk Shark" and dive deep into its thrilling narrative, ensuring that this movie finds its rightful place in the pantheon of beloved shark films. Don't miss the chance to be part of the adventure and help bring "Punk Shark" to the big screen!
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/punk-shark-a-feature-film#/
https://punksharkmovie.com/
 

The New Century: Reel Dreams and Indie Realities

Join us for the landmark 100th episode of Cinema Yugen as we delve into the world of indie film-making, persistence, and the power of dreams. Host Kent Hill reunites with filmmaker and confidant, Con Christopolous, reflecting on their journey through the cinematic universe and the milestones achieved together. From the heart-pounding excitement of independent storytelling to the relentless pursuit of crafting new narratives, this episode is a celebration of the creative spirit.
Con shares his experiences and challenges as a filmmaker, discussing his past work and aspirations, including the partially completed film "Alien Sons" and the ambitious script "Mother Hunter." Despite the obstacles in independent film-making, Con's determination shines through as he explores new media opportunities and collaborates with fellow creatives like Kent.
This episode transcends beyond cinema, touching upon the broader themes of hope, encouragement, and resilience. As Kent reflects on reaching the 100th episode milestone, he shares the honors and gratitude towards those who've shared their stories. This is not just a podcast; it's a tribute to dreamers who never give up and a testament to the vibrant indie film community. Tune in and be inspired by the unwavering passion and dedication of those who believe in the art of storytelling.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://youtu.be/YmceGbbgUlY
https://youtu.be/EPWeZ4rSZJ0
 

Considering John Bruni: From Mysterious Dedications to Sci-Fi Adventures

Step into the intriguing world of John Bruni, a prolific author with a flair for the bizarre and the captivating. In this episode, we unravel the mystique surrounding his work, as we explore his newest dedication-filled release, "Something to Consider," a collection of Slate Junior stories. These tales, originally part of the Straight to Video saga, showcase Bruni's unique blend of science fiction and noir, creating a universe where a seasoned sci-fi PI battles thrilling adversaries across galaxies.
Join us as John shares anecdotes of his past, from gatherings at StrangeHouse Books to trysts in the realms of sleazy sci-fi. His literary range spans from "Tales of Questionable Taste" to Kindle-only masterpieces, each reflecting a penchant for storytelling that's both provocative and engaging. Expect conversations peppered with tales of trench-coated detectives, interstellar escapades, and John’s personal road to authorship.
Yet, it's not all about the gravity-defying adventures. This episode takes a deeper dive into the creative mind behind these stories, including discussions about bizarre projects, like books being resurrected from rare collections, and audio formats bringing tales to life. Bruni's narrative, much like the universe he describes, is endlessly expansive and compellingly personal.
Tune in to discover the humanity behind the fantastical, the humor interwoven with heart, and the uncommon perspective that John Bruni brings to the world of indie publishing. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this episode offers a delightful glimpse into the life and work of a storyteller who defies conventions at every turn.
CHECK IT OUT:
Website: http://talesofquestionabletaste.com/
Blog: https://talesofunspeakabletaste.blogspot.com/
Substack: @JohnBruni
https://www.amazon.com.au/Conquest-Planet-Tapes-Kent-Hill/dp/1523308435/ref=monarch_sidesheet_title
https://www.amazon.com.au/V-D-Straight-Video-4/dp/170538241X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.cEgNoIJZuaJwKm1eS-0wOYTlEE6TU6qnGK4fDoZ026SWt2xcootx85eUZjuzaC4R-cuBQj3jEL9iOIhlAqXXSg.ksemRhuK9GXMDiPJZPX79uExAUDsSzevOEAn3JhwYEA&qid=1734146982&sr=1-1
 

"From Bodybuilder to Screen Sensation: The Andrew Bryniarski Journey"

Join us on an exhilarating adventure through the life of Andrew Bryniarski, the towering actor whose journey from a summer vacation to an illustrious Hollywood career is nothing short of remarkable. Discover how fate and chance encounters led Andrew from the gym to the silver screen, where his six-foot-five presence and remarkable talent caught the eye of industry giants.
Relish in captivating anecdotes as Andrew shares behind-the-scenes stories from his time working with stars like Bruce Willis, Al Pacino, and Halle Berry. Dive into his experiences on major sets, tackling roles in films like Hudson Hawk, Batman Returns, Street Fighter, and the visceral Texas Chainsaw Massacre. His tales are a window into Hollywood's heart, from humorous mishaps to intense character preparations, offering listeners an unfiltered look at an actor's life behind the camera.
Whether it's discussing his impressive physique's effect on co-stars or unraveling pranks during shoots, Andrew's narratives are filled with humor, candor, and wisdom. His ability to transform a simple conversation into a lively recount offers a unique perspective on the trials and triumphs of a Hollywood actor.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0117420/