Houselights: A Film Director Podcast

Houselights: A Film Director Podcast

If you’re looking for the best movie podcast for everyone who appreciates movies, subscribe to “Houselights” today! Each week, hosts Darren Moser, John Mills, and Tristan Riddell share what they see as a movie director’s signature approach and how it shaped the movies you love. Join them as they unpack the works of some of the most prominent directors - and the lost works of the most masterful auteurs. Weekly episodes comprise series featuring works of different directors approached in unexpected ways. For example: The entire filmography of a celebrated director like David Fincher or Christopher Nolan; The films of a director during a particular decade, like Francis Ford Coppola in the 1990s; A single film from each decade of the impactful director Spike Lee to see how his style evolved; The approach of different directors to a single franchise character or series, such as Hannibal Lecter or James Bond, and They’re always open to suggestions from listeners at https://thenerdparty.com/contact! In each case, your hosts bring unique takes to the discussion, fostering an informative conversation that’s equally insightful and entertaining...from an objectively critical but objectively fair angle. So, if you’re interested in the stories behind the story, the decisions that shape our favorite films, and the people who make them happen, “Houselights” is the best movie podcast for you. We are proud to be part of The Nerd Party Network, which is dedicated to presenting an objective perspective on the media we all love.

Episodes

January 8, 2026 53 mins
In this episode, we explore Luc Besson's "The Messenger," a film that ambitiously tackles the story of Joan of Arc. While Mila Jovovich shines in her role, the movie falters with historical inaccuracies and uneven storytelling. Our hosts discuss the film's visual and musical elements, offering insights into its place in Besson's career. Tune in for a thoughtful critique of this unique cinematic endeavor.
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The Fifth Element is loud, strange, and completely confident in its own weirdness. This review looks at why the movie still works decades later: the energy, the phenomenal costumes, the sincerity underneath all the craziness. From Bruce Willis playing it as low-key as possible to Milla Jovovich turning innocence into power, it’s a film that commits. Wildly imaginative and impossible to mistake for anything else, it’s the kind of sc...
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We continue our Luc Besson retrospective with Léon: The Professional (1994), a film that turned a hitman into a pop-culture archetype and remains one of the most debated thrillers of the 1990s. Host John Mills is joined by Darren Moser to dig into Besson’s precise visual control, Éric Serra’s melancholic score, Thierry Arbogast’s stylized cinematography, and the film’s complicated emotional core.
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December 11, 2025 50 mins
In this episode of Houselights, we begin our retrospective of Luc Besson's work from the 90s with "La Femme Nikita." We examine the film's stylistic impact and its role in reshaping the action-thriller genre. While the movie serves as a genre blueprint, we also touch on its narrative inconsistencies and character development challenges. Join us as we explore the film's influence and its place in cinematic history.
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December 5, 2025 52 mins
In this episode, we walk slowly but carefully into Kathryn Bigelow's Oscar-winning film, "The Hurt Locker." We explore the film's gripping portrayal of the Iraq War, its intense cinematography, and the nuanced performances by Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie. With a mix of admiration and critique, we discuss the film's lasting impact and its place in cinematic history. Whether you're a fan of war dramas or just curious about what m...
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In this episode of Houselights, we navigate through Kathryn Bigelow's "K-19: The Widowmaker," focusing on its technical brilliance and narrative challenges. We discuss the film's claustrophobic cinematography, the nuanced performances of Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson, and the historical context that frames this gripping submarine drama. While the film excels in its technical execution, the emotional connection with the characters r...
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November 20, 2025 62 mins
Wire into the dystopian world of Kathryn Bigelow's "Strange Days" with our latest review. We explore the film's ambitious narrative, technical wizardry, and its reflection of 90s societal angst. From groundbreaking POV shots to its complex themes, this episode unpacks why "Strange Days" remains a compelling watch. 
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November 14, 2025 55 mins
Join Houselights as we explore "Point Break," Kathryn Bigelow's 90s cult classic that blends extreme sports with high-stakes heists. With Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze leading the charge, this film is a thrilling ride of surfing, skydiving, and philosophical musings on freedom. Discover why this action-packed spectacle remains a beloved piece of pop culture.
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November 6, 2025 49 mins
​In this episode, we review Kathryn Bigelow's 1990 thriller, "Blue Steel," where Jamie Lee Curtis shines as a rookie cop entangled in a psychological battle with Ron Silver's unnerving antagonist. We critique the film's narrative structure, character development, and Bigelow's evolving directorial style, offering insights into both its strengths and missed opportunities. Join us for a thoughtful analysis of this intriguing yet impe...
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October 30, 2025 45 mins
In this episode of Houselights, we explore Kathryn Bigelow's "Near Dark." Join hosts John, Darren, and Tristan as they delve into the film's unique blend of vampire, western, and punk rock genres, discuss the performances of its ensemble cast, and examine its cult status and technical execution. Discover how "Near Dark" set the stage for Bigelow's illustrious career and why it remains a fascinating piece of 80s cinema.
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October 24, 2025 56 mins
A towering classic of Hollywood’s Golden Age, The Ten Commandments (1956) remains one of the greatest epics ever made. In this episode, we explore Cecil B. DeMille’s monumental vision, Charlton Heston’s iconic performance, and the timeless spectacle that continues to part the cinematic seas.
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October 16, 2025 59 mins
In this episode of Houselights, we explore Robert Zemeckis' "Cast Away." Join hosts John, Darren, and Tristan as they discuss Tom Hanks' remarkable portrayal of Chuck Noland, the film's innovative use of sound and visual design, and its cultural impact. 
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October 9, 2025 55 mins
Join us on Houselights as we dive into the sci-fi wonder of Robert Zemeckis's 1997 film, "Contact." With a story by Carl Sagan, this episode explores the film's ambitious themes of faith, science, and politics, featuring a stellar cast including Jodie Foster and Matthew McConaughey. We discuss the film's technical achievements, its place in Zemeckis's filmography, and the dualities present in its narrative. Tune in for a thoughtful...
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October 3, 2025 51 mins
This week we spring into Robert Zemeckis' Forrest Gump and discuss Tom Hanks' iconic performance, the film's innovative visuals, and its powerful themes of love and resilience. 
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September 29, 2025 43 mins
Join John and Darren as they revisit Robert Zemeckis’ Death Becomes Her, unpacking its groundbreaking visual effects, sharp Hollywood satire, and the over-the-top performances that made it a cult favorite.
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In this episode of Houselights, we journey back to the Old West with "Back to the Future Part 3." Join hosts Tristan, Darren, and John as they explore the film's unique charm and its pivotal role in concluding the iconic trilogy. From the genre shift to the unforgettable train sequence, we delve into how this installment stands out while tying together the beloved series. Discover why this film remains a fan favorite and how it sol...
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September 11, 2025 54 mins
In our final entry our the Antoine Fuqua retrospective, "The Equalizer," we break down the film's key scenes and discuss its impact on the action genre. Tune in as we explore the film's narrative, character development, and Fuqua's directorial choices.
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September 4, 2025 55 mins
In our second look at Antoine Fuqua's work, we explore the gritty world of "Training Day," the film that redefined cop dramas. Join us as we discuss Denzel Washington's Oscar-winning role, Ethan Hawke's overlooked performance, and the film's exploration of corruption, morality, and the Faustian bargains that define its characters. Discover why this cultural touchstone continues to resonate and hear our thoughts on its unforgettable...
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Explore Antoine Fuqua's directorial debut, "The Replacement Killers," as we discuss its homage to Hong Kong action cinema, the star-studded cast, and the challenges Fuqua faced as a first-time director. With insights into the film's nostalgic 90s vibe and its place in Fuqua's evolving career, this discussion is a must-listen for action movie enthusiasts and film buffs alike.
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August 22, 2025 62 mins
In this episode, we explore the complex relationship between technology and intimacy as depicted in Spike Jonze's visionary film, 'Her.' Join us as we examine the emotional depth and philosophical questions raised by the film, examining how artificial intelligence challenges our understanding of love and connection. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of human relationships in a digital age.
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