Cinema Yūgen

Unlocking the Cinematic Odyssey of Philippe Mora

Join us in this captivating episode of Cinema Yugen as we sit down with the renowned director and artist, Philippe Mora. From his groundbreaking documentaries to his eclectic film endeavors, Mora shares his journey through the cinematic landscape, weaving tales of unexpected collaborations and infamous productions.
Explore the influential career of a filmmaker who refused to be pigeonholed. Learn about his intriguing experiences directing icons like Dennis Hopper, amidst the wild backdrop of 'Mad Dog Morgan,' and discover the creative spirit that led Mora to concoct the satirical horror of 'The Howling III: The Marsupials.'
Beyond films, Mora delves into his passions for art and history, unveiling stories that include royal complaints over artworks, to fascinating WWII tales from his graphic novel 'Monsieur Mayonnaise.' Don't miss this insider's glimpse into an artist's relentless pursuit of creative expression and the moments that have shaped his storied career.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0602333/
 

Exploring the Dark Side: An Interview with Cory DeAn Cowley

In this spellbinding episode of Cinema Yugen, join us as we delve deep into the dark and intriguing world of Cory DeAn Cowley, a visionary filmmaker known for her daring approach to horror. Raised in Hendersonville, Cory grew up with an insatiable fascination for the macabre, a passion that led her to create some of the most riveting horror films in independent cinema.
From her groundbreaking work in movies like "Forest Hills" and "Devour," to her ambitious projects on the horizon, Cory shares her journey of artistic exploration. Listen as she discusses the challenges and triumphs of pushing boundaries in horror, and the inspiration she draws from iconic creators like Hellraiser's Gary j. Tunnicliffe.
Cory takes us behind the scenes on her latest ventures, offering tantalizing glimpses into her upcoming TV show for Screambox, a project shrouded in secrecy but brimming with thrilling potential. Passionate about storytelling and independent cinema, Cory highlights the importance of strong narratives and passionate crews in bringing fear and fascination to life.
Tune in to uncover the essence of what makes Corey's work unforgettable, as she hints at exciting new roles beyond her horror roots, revealing her aspirations in historical and action-packed genres. Prepare to be drawn into her world as Cory DeAn Cowley shares her unique vision on this captivating audio journey.
CHECK IT OUT:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14182842/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_3_nm_5_in_0_q_CORY%2520DEAN
https://officialcorydeancowley.com/
 

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