Best SpecialEffect Podcasts (2025)

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Ep 402 - One Battle After Another 1:25:53

9d ago1:25:53

1:25:53

In this episode we dive into the latest Paul Thomas Anderson movie. We explore the film's intricate layers, masterful performances, and unparalleled storytelling. We break down the film's standout scenes, including its tension-filled chase sequence and the complex interplay of its characters. We get into the captivating performances by Sean Penn an…

1
Midnight Syndicate: The Birth of Gothic, Horror, & Haunt Music 1:42:04

28d ago1:42:04

1:42:04

Join the guys behind Midnight Syndicate, Edward Douglas & Gavin Goszka! We ask them questions like: How to create your own haunt music? What inspires them to make music? Sound tips and tricks? Plus, we play the first 3 tracks from their NEW album Darkened Corners. Midnight Syndicate is an American musical duo known for creating dark, atmospheric, a…

1
Ep 401 - Weapons 1:04:44

2M ago1:04:44

1:04:44

This week we start with Paul recounting his recent performance in a play up in Virginia, sharing his thoughts on the experience and the audience's reception. We also touch on the emotional and technical challenges faced during his performance. Then we get into the film 'Weapons,' directed by Zach Cregger. We discuss the film's characters, notable s…

1
Total Terror Haunted House: From Home Haunter to Pro 1:30:39

2M ago1:30:39

1:30:39

Join us as we discuss the Total Terror Haunt with Chip Wells in Virginia. Going from a home haunter to a commercial haunted attraction Create your own props with papier-mache How to operate and grow a haunted attraction How to manage your haunt crew and lots more... Start and grow your Haunted Attraction at HauntersToolbox.com Stalk Total Terror at…

1
Scare Actor Training & Managing with Fright Nights 1:51:08

2M ago1:51:08

1:51:08

Sammy Days & David Gricius are the Scare Actor Trainers and Scare Actors at Fright Nights in Southern Florida. Join us as we pick their brains... Learn how to recruit scare actors Learn how to train scare actors Learn how to manage scare actors Fright Nights is an annual Halloween event that occurs at the South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beac…

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Ep 400 - Top 4 Performances and Tech Achievements 1:05:50

2M ago1:05:50

1:05:50

Welcome to the 400th episode of The Actor and the Engineer! Paul shares his top four acting performances seen during the podcast's run, discussing the tremendous talent showcased in movies like 'If Beale Street Could Talk' and 'Birdman.' Meanwhile, Josh delves into advancements like digital film projection, drone usage, the ARRI Alexa cameras, and …

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Halloween Hollow Haunted House: Starting from ground zero 1:45:01

3M ago1:45:01

1:45:01

Halloween Hollow Haunted House in Silver Point, TN, Has Everyone Screaming From Nashville to Knoxville, Tennessee, With Its Massive Outdoor Halloween Event! We answer your questions to the owners, Carroll Lee Moore III and Erica McElroy, as we discuss what it takes to own and operate the most unique haunted attraction in Tennessee. Start and grow y…

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Ep 399 - Eddington 1:14:02

3M ago1:14:02

1:14:02

In this episode we kick off with Paul announcing his new play, 'The Lifespan of a Fact'. Then we have an in-depth analysis of the film 'Eddington', directed by Ari Aster. We explore various plot points, character motivations, social media's impact, and the film's complex themes.By Paul James and Josh Knapp

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Ep 398 - Superman 1:01:57

4M ago1:01:57

1:01:57

In this episode we delve into the latest DC film, Superman, directed by James Gunn. They discuss their excitement for Gunn's take on the DC Universe, our impressions of the cast and the film's overall tone and stylistic choices. We also touch on various plot elements, special effects, and how the movie fares against the backdrop of other superhero …

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Woods of Terror: Scare acting, snakes, midways, & more! 1:18:54

4M ago1:18:54

1:18:54

Eddie McLaurin is the creator and owner of the Woods of Terror haunted attraction in Greensboro, North Carolina. Here's a brief overview of his story: Family Legacy: The Woods of Terror sits on land that has been in McLaurin's family for generations, dating back to his great-grandfather, Simon Peter "Pa Pete" McCormick. Inspired by the Land: McLaur…

1
Ep 397 - Breathless 50:29

4M ago50:29

50:29

In this episode we dive into Jean-Luc Godard's influential 1960 film, Breathless. We discuss Godard's journey from critic to filmmaker, the unique production techniques that shaped the film, and the impact of its groundbreaking style, including the use of jump cuts and overdubbing.By Paul James and Josh Knapp

1
Terror in the Corn with Bart Butler 1:49:28

4M ago1:49:28

1:49:28

Ask the Haunt Expert: Bart Butler from Terror in the Corn Hosted by HauntersToolbox.com Bart Butler is the show director for Terror in the Corn in Eerie, Colorado. Bart answers all of your haunted attraction-related questions. We'll discuss: -Scare Acting management -Scenic design & construction -Character Development -Getting more people to your H…

1
Ep 396 - Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning 47:07

5M ago47:07

47:07

Join us as we get into 'Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning.' We analyze the movie's storyline, character development, and overall execution. We compare it to 'Dead Reckoning' and other Mission Impossible films, touching on our thoughts about the movie's pacing, action sequences, and emotional impact. Don't miss our exploration of the film's hi…

1
Haunt Marketing, Haunt Dolls, & Conjured Media 1:13:21

5M ago1:13:21

1:13:21

Vendor Spotlight: Haunt Dolls/Conjured Media Hosted by HauntersToolbox.com Before Haunt Dolls was even a thought, Alex Berland, who also runs Conjured Media, a marketing agency that specializes in haunted attractions, would get crochet dolls as holiday gifts for his clients of the characters his team would create with them. The dolls were so well r…

1
Ep 395 - Thunderbolts* 59:39

5M ago59:39

59:39

Join us as we dive into Marvel's Thunderbolts*. We discuss the depth and complexities of the characters, the overarching themes of mental health and familial bonds, and how the movie stands out in the vast Marvel Cinematic Universe. From reflections on performances to the significance of character development, we cover how Thunderbolts shows us a l…

1
Haunt Law: How to cover your a$$ with waivers, contracts, & preparation. 1:30:50

6M ago1:30:50

1:30:50

Matthew Murphey is a Haunter and a trial attorney. Matt has worked in courtrooms since starting his legal career as a court-martial clerk in the United States Army in 1985. He also knows Haunted Attraction's legal roadblocks. We'll discuss: -Protecting yourself from legal battles -How to start a non-profit attraction -Employee contracts & applicati…

1
Ep 394 - Sinners 57:49

6M ago57:49

57:49

In this episode we delve into Ryan Coogler's new vampire film, Sinners. We explore Coogler's departure from conventional storytelling, discuss the film's allegory on art and commerce, and dissect the intricate performances, especially highlighting Michael B. Jordan's dual role and Delroy Lindo's masterful acting. We also debate the necessity of the…

1
Ep 393 - Warfare 53:01

6M ago53:01

53:01

In this episode we discuss the latest film by Alex Garland, which is co-directed and co-written with retired Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza. The movie recounts real events from Ramadi, Iraq, in 2006. We delve into its character development and its portrayal of military operations. We get into the emotional intensity of the storytelling and why this may not …

1
How to get more people to your Haunted Attraction: Philip Hernandez 1:44:16

6M ago1:44:16

1:44:16

Philip Hernandez, the founder of the Haunted Attraction Network and CEO of Gantom, answers all of your marketing questions. He has experience in social media, marketing, video & audio, theme parks, haunted attractions, public relations, press releases, and much more. Find Philip at HauntedAttractionNetwork.com Start and grow your haunted attraction…

1
Ep 392 - Black Bag 54:10

7M ago54:10

54:10

In this episode we dive deep into Steven Soderbergh's latest project 'Black Bag.' The conversation extends to the storytelling prowess of screenwriter David Koepp, the complexities of character development, and the nuances of the film's cinematography and editing. We also touch on other upcoming movies from directors like Paul Thomas Anderson and S…

1
Ep 391 - Top 5 of 2024 1:00:04

8M ago1:00:04

1:00:04

Join us for a special episode of Actor and the Engineer where we break down our top 5 films of the year! From directing debuts to unexpected thrillers, and Oscar-worthy performances, we cover it all.By Paul James and Josh Knapp

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Create Killer Videos and Photos of Your Haunt with Haunting Media 1:38:44

8M ago1:38:44

1:38:44

Scott and Jewel Simonson answer all of your questions about creating killer videos and photos at your haunt, marketing on a budget, retaining your actors, haunt technology, and other questions you have about Haunted Attractions. "Haunting Media was founded by experienced haunted attraction owners, who, much like you, understand the intricacies and …

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Ep 390 - Oscarcast 2025 1:08:33

8M ago1:08:33

1:08:33

In this episode we discuss our picks for the major Oscar categories such as Adapted Screenplay, Original Screenplay, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Picture. We debate potential winners, personal favorites, and possible surprises, analyzing performances from movies like 'Anora', 'The Brutalist', 'A…

1
Ep 389 - The Seed of the Sacred Fig 59:38

9M ago59:38

59:38

In this episode we discuss the Iranian film 'Seed of the Sacred Fig.' Recommended by frequent guest Justin Arner, this movie intrigued us with its compelling story, We delve into the film's production, which was conducted in secret due to its critical stance against the Iranian government. The conversation also covers the complexities of the charac…

1
Ep 388 - Nickel Boys 58:47

9M ago58:47

58:47

In this episode we delve into an in-depth discussion about Nickel Boys, directed and co-written by RaMell Ross. We explore the film's narrative style, and the powerful storytelling derived from its poignant backdrop. We also discuss the technical aspects of filming, and the thematic depth portrayed by the actors, particularly Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor.…

1
Ep 387 - The Brutalist 1:02:46

9M ago1:02:46

1:02:46

In this episode we explore Brady Corbet's film 'The Brutalist.' The film centers around an architect from Budapest who survives a concentration camp and moves to the United States to rebuild his life. They discuss their impressions, emotional reactions, and the film's intricate details. They also touch on the performances by the cast, including Adr…

1
Ask the Haunt Expert: Leonard Pickel 1:38:44

9M ago1:38:44

1:38:44

Start, grow, and scale your Haunted Attraction at HauntersToolbox.com In this episode, we discuss many things like Scare Actors, Safety, Timed Ticketing, Wall panels, Haunt Construction, Tent Haunts, Outdoor Trails, International Haunts, and more! Leonard Pickel has over 50 years of themed attraction design and operations experience in year-round a…

1
Ep 386 - A Complete Unknown 52:45

10M ago52:45

52:45

In this episode we dive deep into the Bob Dylan biopic, analyzing the film's approach to the music icon's life. We reflect on the unique narrative style, the performances, and the direction by James Mangold. We also explore how the film's portrayal of Dylan's music and persona may introduce new fans to the legendary artist's work.…

1
Ep 385 - Nosferatu 53:12

10M ago53:12

53:12

In this episode we dive into Robert Eggers' contemporary take on the classic Dracula tale, Nosferatu. We discuss the film's homage to the 1922 F.W. Murnau film, its modern cinematic techniques, and the chilling performances by Lily Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, and Bill Skarsgård. Paul also shares his recent trip to Prague, where the movie was filmed,…

1
The Ghosts of Past, Present, & Future: Alcohol Sales, Safety, Queue Lines, S'mores & MORE! 1:19:29

10M ago1:19:29

1:19:29

Start and grow your Haunted Attraction at HauntersToolbox.com Get Merit Badges and Name badges for your crew at ScareItBadges.com 2024 is over! What's in store for 2025?? We discuss many subjects in this episode. Topics like: Should you sell alcohol at your haunt? How to get free marketing Campfire rentals and selling S'Mores Concessions and mercha…

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Ep 384 - Gladiator 2 45:55

11M ago45:55

45:55

In this episode Paul announces his exciting new role as a director, co-directing a play with Heather Miles. The discussion then ventures into Paul's experiences and the learning curve in directing. Then we get into a detailed critique of 'Gladiator 2,' discussing characters, plot, CGI elements, and specific performances. We also touch upon other mo…

1
Ep 383 - The Outrun 37:21

11M ago37:21

37:21

In this episode we delve into 'The Outrun,' starring Saoirse Ronan. Paul explains how he stumbled upon the film on IMDb and why he was drawn to it. We discuss the film's portrayal of addiction, highlighting Nora Fingscheid's direction and the non-linear storytelling, which effectively represents the protagonist's struggles with alcoholism. We also …

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The Evolution of Haunted Attractions with Beverly & Nick Pappas 1:46:11

12M ago1:46:11

1:46:11

It stinks that we don't get to travel during October to visit haunted attractions because most of us are busy with our haunt businesses and projects. Nick and Beverly Pappas have traveled thousands of miles yearly as Haunt customers and have seen things we haven't. Listen to their stories and get a peek at how Haunts are changing. What are the tren…

1
Ep 382 - Anora 1:02:58

12M ago1:02:58

1:02:58

This week we get into the most recent Palme 'dOr winner, Anora. We discuss unexpected elements in the movie, and analyze its powerful performances and distinct storytelling. The conversation explores the themes, characters, and narrative twists that make this film stand out, with a special focus on the intricate dynamics between the characters and …

1
Ep 381 - Conclave 1:04:24

12M ago1:04:24

1:04:24

In this episode we discuss Ralph Fiennes' portrayal of a Cardinal involved in selecting the next Pope, and look at themes of faith, politics, and human flaws within the Catholic Church. We also explore the implications of the film's surprising ending and its reflection on modern societal issues. Join us as we dissect the directing choices, performa…

1
How does your Haunt compare? The 2024 Haunt Industry Report 1:15:40

1y ago1:15:40

1:15:40

HauntPay created the annual Haunt Industry Survey because they needed reliable, recent data about the haunt industry. This is the fourth annual report and haunters revealed some surprising insights for the coming season! Marketing efforts got more sophisticated and more robust this year, with haunters using digital and offline platforms to promote …

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