The Envelope (Los Angeles Times)

Gillian Anderson, who plays Eleanor Roosevelt on the Showtime series “The First Lady,” Joanna on “The Great” and Dr. Jean Milburn on “Sex Education,” really vibes with female characters who forge their own paths – and there’s good reason for that: Even when she was a small child, “telling Gillian what she could and couldn’t do” was impossible, she recalls her mother saying. In this episode of “The Envelope,” Anderson dishes on the importance of Roosevelt’s loving relationship with journalist Lorena Hickok, why “Sex Education” initially didn’t click with her, and the long legacy of “The X-Files.”

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Chances are, you already know the names of Emmy favorites like “Ted Lasso” and “The Crown,” which are expected to rack up the statuettes when the TV academy hands out its annual awards next month. But you may not have had time to catch up on all of this year’s Emmy nominees just yet — and on this latest crossover between “The Envelope” and “The Times” podcasts, TV editor Matt Brennan and awards columnist Glenn Whipp reveal their favorite Emmy underdogs.

Photo courtesy of Des Willie/Netflix

This week, we sit down with Naomi Watts to discuss 'Feud: Capote vs. the Swans' and talk to showrunner Issa López about 'True Detective: Night Country.'

Bill Hader and his dark comedy “Barry” have again raked in a slew of Emmy nominations. In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, Hader dishes on what it’s like to simultaneously star in, write for, direct and executive produce a high-profile TV series of his own creation. (While doing some high-emotion acting, he recalls, “I kind of induced a panic attack — which I do not recommend if you're also directing.”) He also delves into how he transitioned from performing on “Saturday Night Live” to what he calls “real acting,” how it feels to shut down a freeway and why he laughs at the darkest moments.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

"Foretold" is the newest podcast from the L.A. Times, and we're sharing a preview of the first episode with you here today. 

In the fall of 2019, reporter Faith E. Pinho received a tip from a woman named Paulina Stevens. Paulina claimed she had grown up in an insular Romani community in California, where she was raised to be a wife, mother and fortuneteller — until she decided to break away. That first call unraveled a story spanning multiple continents, hundreds of years, and complex metaphysical realities. 

 Follow "Foretold" to hear new episodes every Tuesday.

At 29 years old, “Nope” star Keke Palmer has already racked up two decades in show business. She’s an actor, singer, TV host and meme queen – and she has big plans for more. If her public persona is like Mickey Mouse, she says, then “I’m Walt Disney.” In this episode of “The Envelope,” Palmer shares what it was like to work with Jordan Peele on his blockbuster sci-fi thriller, how she felt about being her family’s breadwinner during her childhood and how she navigates the exploitation baked into Hollywood. Also, Whoopi Goldberg, if you’re listening: She wants to talk to you about “Sister Act 3.”

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

“Stranger Things” has brought Hopper back for Season 4, and nobody’s gladder than David Harbour, who wants to peel back the layers of the character and reveal “the hero that you've always wanted him to be” (as long as he survives this season, that is). In this episode of “The Envelope,” Harbour shares his thoughts on portraying a cop in the midst of national police brutality conversations, the upsides of finding fame later in his career, and how acting has helped him manage his mental health.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Director Adam McKay takes us behind the scenes of “Don’t Look Up” to reveal the real-life events that inspired his new film. Plus, why his collaboration with Will Ferrell had to end and the rule he enforces about discussing potential awards on set.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

In this week's episode of The Envelope video podcast, "Lessons in Chemistry" star Aja Naomi King opens up about overcoming her fears about launching a career as an actor and Michelle King and Jonathan Tolins take us inside their popular new procedural, "Elsbeth." 

The Envelope podcast will return November 30 with brand new episodes that pull back the curtain on this award season’s top contenders. Each week, A-list actors, directors and showrunners join Los Angeles Times entertainment reporters Yvonne Villarreal and Mark Olsen for intimate conversations about their personal lives and creative processes — and how that all fuels their art. New episodes featuring stars such as Kirsten Dunst, Halle Berry, Jennifer Coolidge and Adam McKay will drop every Tuesday.

Follow wherever you get your podcasts.

Mj Rodriguez has busted through a tough barrier as the first transgender performer nominated for an Emmy in a lead acting category. Now that she’s wrapped up her successful run in the hit FX show “Pose,” will there be more great mainstream opportunities for trans performers in the future?

“Pose” took us into New York’s LGBTQ ballroom scene amid the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and early ‘90s, and Rodriguez brought it all together as Blanca, the mother of the House of Evangelista. Regardless of whether she wins the Emmy next month for outstanding lead actress in a drama series, she’s already made history.

Today, Rodriguez talks about her background as a musical theater performer and Berklee-educated songwriter, the night she learned that the part of Blanca was hers and how she feels the doors are opening up for trans performers. Plus we’ve got a clip of her new single.

More reading:

How Mj Rodriguez and Billy Porter are saying goodbye to ‘Pose’

‘Pose’ cast celebrates Mj Rodriguez’s historic Emmy nomination: ‘About mf’n time’

Queer actors are finally playing queer roles. Next up? More chances to play it straight

Since her 1994 debut in “Heavenly Creatures,” Melanie Lynskey has been acting steadily while “flying comfortably right under the radar.” Now, for her electric role on “Yellowjackets,” Lynskey has earned an Emmy nomination for outstanding lead actress in a drama series — and a whole new level of fame. In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, she dishes on how this year has helped her feel more empowered and less underestimated, arriving at a place of self-love after struggling with an eating disorder, and why roles of women who take up a lot of space appeal to her. Oh, and there’s also a delightful story about a Nick Cave concert, a charming Drew Barrymore impression and a brief visit from a very special guest.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

The premise of “Jury Duty” — placing a non-actor in the middle of an entirely staged trial — could have easily led the show to mean-spirited-prank territory. Instead, the cast manages to land laughs while making the person who thinks it’s all real, Ronald Gladden, into a hero. For James Marsden, who plays a Hollywood jerk version of himself on the show, that was the most important thing. “I’ll make an ass of myself and have fun doing it, but I never want him to be the butt of the joke,” he shares.

In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, Marsden discusses how the cast and crew managed to pull it all off, why the role interested him, and how — despite his very believable performance on ”Jury Duty” — he strives to keep his ego from ruining his reputation in real life. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Hannah Waddingham discusses her Emmy-nominated performance in “Ted Lasso,” the feel-good Apple TV+ comedy series that centers on the upbeat American coach of an English soccer team. Waddingham plays the coach’s initially vindictive and cynical boss, Rebecca. 

She also talks about her turn as the “Game of Thrones” nun who infamously yelled “Shame! Shame!” at Cersei Lannister, recounts how doors have opened for her during her career and reflects on her childhood as the daughter and granddaughter of opera singers.

More reading:

Those biscuits in ‘Ted Lasso’ look delish. Not so much, says Hannah Waddingham

‘Ted Lasso’s’ Christmas episode wasn’t part of the plan. Here’s how they pulled it off

‘Ted Lasso’ isn’t just a TV show. It’s a vibe

Photo courtesy of Apple TV+

Our guest is Janicza Bravo, director and co-writer of the new film “Zola.” Bravo talks about adapting the screenplay from a viral Twitter thread, trusting her instincts about casting, combining comedy and anxiety to push audience reactions, and how she became a go-to director for prestige TV series wanting to change-up their style.

For more exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for our Envelope newsletter. Guest photo courtesy of Nastassia Brückin.

Daniel Dae Kim recounts how an attack on his sister catalyzed his fight against AAPI hate crimes, his greatest fear when it came to “Lost,” and why having a seat at the table as a producer is both “liberating” and “soul-destroying.” Plus, he discusses his first lead role: an FBI agent on National Geographic’s “The Hot Zone: Anthrax.”

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

Though she's had a long career, Aunjanue Ellis has only recently broken through to widespread acclaim. Now, she  is  nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in "King Richard" as Oracene Price, the mother of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. In this “The Envelope” podcast interview, she opens up  about fighting for her character to receive her due  as a coach of the Williams sisters, the practical perks of being nominated for an Oscar, and her approach to playing nonfictional characters.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

In her first audition for the role of Anita in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story,” Ariana DeBose stressed the importance of having her identity represented. “If you aren’t interested in reflecting that in the context of your script,” she told the acclaimed director, “I don’t think that you should hire me.” The result is a far cry from the “ethnically ambiguous” characters DeBose has portrayed in the past, and she is now the first Afro Latina and the first queer woman of color to be nominated for an acting Oscar. In this interview, DeBose details the most joyful (and harrowing) moments of shooting “West Side Story,” her experience of being typecast in Hollywood, and why — despite initial hesitance — she ultimately decided to follow in Rita Moreno’s footsteps by starring in the remake.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Darren Aronofsky is known for directing dark, provocative, divisive films such as “Requiem for a Dream” and “Black Swan,” but in “The Whale,” he sees hope, “human connection and a belief in the human spirit.”

In this episode of “The Envelope,” Aronofsky reflects on how “The Whale” interacts with obesity and fatphobia, discusses exploring humanity through science, and describes why the “Brenaissance” — star Brendan Fraser’s triumphant return to acting — caught him by surprise. 

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Jennifer Coolidge opens up about shifting from drama to comedy (and back again), overcoming cocaine addiction in her 20s and channeling the death of her mother to play the grieving Tanya McQuoid in ‘White Lotus.’

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

A previous version of this episode was published Dec. 7, 2021. 

Issa Rae breaks down the "Insecure" finale, including Molly and Issa’s heart to heart and why — after considering alternate endings — she decided to let her character choose happiness. Plus, Rae details her regrets about turning South L.A. into a Hollywood landmark, when she learned what not to share publicly, and how the success of "Insecure" has changed her meetings with studio execs.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

Around 2015, actor-writer-director Colman Domingo was planning to quit it all and find a new career. But instead of giving up, he revamped his approach — and found new happiness.

In this episode of “The Envelope,” the Emmy nominee discusses modeling his “Euphoria” character, Ali, after someone dear to his heart as he reflects on the nature of redemption and forgiveness. “Everyone has faults,” he says. “Everyone is suffering and struggling. But everyone, when they have accountability, there … should be inroads for them to come back into good grace.” He also dishes on why he calls himself a nerd, the adorable way he first met Zendaya, and why being “a shapeshifter” means his real-life looks take people by surprise.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

In the season premiere of The Envelope, 'Wicked' star Cynthia Erivo on becoming Elphaba and Saoirse Ronan on her pair of awards contenders 'The Outrun' and 'Blitz.'

Simone Ashley has always been a fan of the romance genre, but before being cast as Kate Sharma in “Bridgerton,” playing the lead in a period drama seemed improbable to her. “I never imagined that a woman who looked like me could be a part of one,” she says. In this episode of "The Envelope" podcast, Ashley discusses embracing the political aspects of her career, how acting on “Sex Education” prepared her for "Bridgerton" and how her upbringing taught her to dream big.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

This week, Malcolm and John David Washington talk about collaborating on a new August Wilson adaptation and screenwriter Justin Kurtizkes discusses his breakout year.

Kieran Culkin, who plays Roman Roy on "Succession," helps us dissect the moments from the Season 3 finale that we still can't stop thinking about: the  Roy sibling alliance,  Gerri's betrayal, and the surprising ending.  Plus, we discuss his upbringing as a child actor, why conjuring up his family's past doesn't actually help him in scenes and THAT Jeremy Strong New Yorker article. Fair warning: This conversation contains profanity. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

The actress discusses her leap to a leading role with Mark Olsen: Also, costume designer Francine Jamison-Tanchuck talks to Shawn Finnie about her long "Color Purple" journey.

Jessica Biel’s latest series, “Candy,” is based on the true story of Candace Montgomery — a do-it-all mom who snaps after years of repressing her anger and kills her lover’s wife with an ax. “I understand her rage,” says Biel, relating to the stresses of projecting a perfect image in public. In this episode, she discusses why she’s drawn to playing antiheroes, how scrutiny of celebrities has changed since she was starring in “7th Heaven,” and the heated debates that she and husband Justin Timberlake — who makes a cameo in “Candy” — had about the murder mystery.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Ahead of this weekend's Oscars ceremony, L.A. Times critics Justin Chang, Mary McNamara and Glenn Whipp join "The Envelope" co-host Mark Olsen to discuss the the ins and outs of this year's awards season, what to expect on the big night, and the future of the Academy Awards.

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson on how sifting through 40 hours of archival footage of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival — where legends like Nina Simone and Stevie Wonder performed in the same summer as Woodstock — led to his debut documentary, ‘"Summer of Soul.” Plus, how the parallel protests of 2020 and 1969, as well as a focus on Black joy, helped to shape the film, and why he still considers "The Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon his creative epicenter.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com

A new season of the Envelope kicks off at the cusp of awards season, as hosts Mark Olson, Yvonne Villarreal and Shawn Finnie reveal their favorite 2023 actors, writers, directors and films.

On the occasion of scoring double Emmy nominations this year for her performances in "Yellowjackets" and "The Last of Us," Mark and Yvonne revisit a favorite conversation with Melanie Lynskey. 

Since her 1994 debut in “Heavenly Creatures,” Melanie Lynskey has been acting steadily while “flying comfortably right under the radar.” Now, for her electric role on “Yellowjackets,” Lynskey has earned an Emmy nomination for outstanding lead actress in a drama series — and a whole new level of fame. In this episode of “The Envelope” podcast, she dishes on feeling more empowered and less underestimated as of late, arriving at a place of self-love after struggling with an eating disorder, and why roles of women who take up a lot of space appeal to her. Oh, and there’s also a delightful story about a Nick Cave concert, a charming Drew Barrymore impression, and a brief visit from a very special guest.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Beanie Feldstein takes us behind the scenes of her performance on “Impeachment: American Crime Story” and shares why playing Monica Lewinsky forced her to 'disassociate' from herself. Plus, she opens up about the sudden death of her brother Jordan and gushes over the Jewish women (Bette and Barbra) who paved the way for her role as Fanny Brice in the upcoming Broadway revival of “Funny Girl.”

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com

The writer/director talks to Shawn Finnie about the making of her epic film. Also, Yvonne Villarreal gets intimate with 'The Holdovers' Da'Vine Joy Randolph.

In this week’s episode of The Envelope video podcast, "Baby Reindeer" breakout Nava Mau opens up about drawing courage from Netflix's viral hit and "Shōgun's" Hiroyuki Sanada describes how becoming a producer remade him as an actor. 

Few icons are as globally memorialized as Elvis Presley, but for “Elvis" filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, the biopic felt like "a blank sheet to explore” American history, commercialization and the true origin of rock 'n' roll: Black music. In this episode of “The Envelope,” Luhrmann shares his unique take on Presley’s tragic story, how Austin Butler was able to “meld his soul with Elvis' soul” and how a pair of socks connected a young Baz to the King.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Our guest is actor John Boyega, who recently played police officer Leroy Logan in “Red, White and Blue,” which is part of Steve McQueen’s “Small Axe” anthology series. Boyega talks about his relationship with his dad, moving on from the "Star Wars" trilogy, using his platform to highlight social injustice and working in Hollywood. For more exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for our Envelope newsletter. Guest photo courtesy of Getty.

Bravo producer Alex Baskin and star-turned-producer Lisa Vanderpump. They candidly delve into the juicy details behind the show’s scandals, a forthcoming spinoff featuring familiar personas and their perspective on the burgeoning calls for reality show residuals. Plus, their response to awards recognition — and whether any “Housewives” counterparts had anything to say. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

The Oscar-nominated America Ferrara talks to Yvonne Villarreal about how "Barbie" has changed her life and what it's like experiencing all the accolades at this stage of her career. And Mark Olsen sits down with Nadia Stacey, Oscar-nominated for hair and makeup for "Poor Things," to talk about working with Emma Stone for a third time.

In the latest episode of The Envelope video podcast, Ryan Destiny describes the challenges of making boxing movie "The Fire Inside" and Sean Baker and Mikey Madison explain how they fine-tuned the action, comedy and drama of "Anora." 
 

Jessica Williams is no stranger to tackling complicated issues with humor. From being the youngest and first Black woman correspondent on “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart” to now starring opposite Jason Segel and Harrison Ford on the AppleTV+ show “Shrinking,” Williams uses her improv skills and authenticity not only to entertain but also to hit on deep truths. “Grief settles in and it just changes you,” she says. “It doesn’t leave. It just makes a home in your body.”

In this episode of “The Envelope,” Williams reflects on how personal experiences, including her years of therapy and the death of her partner, have shaped her performance. She also gets into her view of the “Black lady therapist” trope, the controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling and transgender rights, and what she learned while making the “Fantastic Beasts” films. Plus, Williams offers tips on “decolonizing” your garden. 

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

In this week's episode of The Envelope, the pair discusses their inspirational new film, plus filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof recounts the harrowing experience making 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig.' 
 

We're back for Emmys season and kicking things off with Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda, who recently wrapped up their much-beloved Netflix series, “Grace and Frankie.” In this episode, the duo laugh and cry with us while reflecting on their decades-long friendship, their mutual admiration for their “9 to 5” co-star Dolly Parton, who reunited with them for the final episode, and the lies people tell about aging and death.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

This week, Cynthia Nixon stops by to discuss her roles in 'And Just Like That ...' and 'The Gilded Age,' then Lulu Wang joins us to talk about making the leap to TV with 'Expats.' 
 

As today’s screenwriters and actors grapple with financial challenges in a rapidly changing showbiz landscape, combined strikes by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA have brought Hollywood to a standstill. Productions are stalled, press tours canceled, and the 2023 Emmys postponed. The economic impact is expected to far surpass that of the last writers’ strike, which cost the L.A. economy more than 2 billion dollars. On this episode of “The Envelope,” hosts Yvonne Villarreal and Mark Olsen discuss the issues underlying this historic strike, pay disparities in streaming, and concerns over the rise of AI with L.A. Times film reporter Josh Rottenberg and actor Sarah Ramos — a member of the SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Halle Berry details how she channeled her childhood trauma in her directorial debut, “Bruised”; why she has “great compassion” for people struggling to get it right; and how she had to fight for roles even after becoming the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for best actress nearly 20 years ago.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

Fresh off the “Better Call Saul” series finale, Rhea Seehorn joins us to delve into the show’s last twists and turns and to give insight into her Emmy-nominated portrayal of ethically flexible attorney Kim Wexler.

If Kim and Bob Odenkirk’s Jimmy McGill character were to get a do-over, how far back in time would they have to travel to put themselves on track for a happily-ever-after? Probably all the way back to the beginning of the series, when they worked together in the mailroom, Seehorn muses. “They would go out with each other, fall in love and then get really, really great therapists.”

In this episode of “The Envelope,” she also discusses her efforts to balance gratitude with confidence in her skills, how her father’s alcoholism shaped her as an actor and the scariest day on the “Better Call Saul” set: when Odenkirk suffered a heart attack right in front of her.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Kirsten Dunst shares stories about growing up in Hollywood, why she decided to publicly address her mental health break, and the joyful — though sometimes awkward — moments of acting opposite her real-life partner, Jesse Plemons, in “The Power of the Dog.”

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

Live from AFI Fest, "Swan Song" director Benjamin Cleary and actor Mahershala Ali discuss the heartbreaking inspiration for the film, the challenges of shooting during a pandemic, and improvising scenes with Naomie Harris. Plus, Ali shares why every role — from a commercial to "Blade" — is equally important to him.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

"Spencer" director  Pablo Larraín details the historical truths in his Princess Diana fable, explains the film’s handling of sensitive elements — such as Diana’s eating disorder and relationship with her sons — and shares the moment on set when Kristen Stewart “lost it” in a good way. To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.  

Jennifer Coolidge opens up about shifting from drama to comedy (and back again), overcoming cocaine addiction in her 20s and channeling the death of her mother to play the grieving Tanya McQuoid in ‘White Lotus.’

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com. 

It’s rare to find a televised female friendship that can deal with dead husbands, car crashes and other wild plot twists the way Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini’s “Dead to Me” characters do. Through years of filming the tragicomedy, the two actors learned to deeply trust each other. When Applegate was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis while filming the last season, their bond only intensified.

In this episode of “The Envelope,” Applegate and Cardellini laugh, sob, describe why they love each other and ponder the possibility of working together again. They also discuss the importance of flawed-mom characters and recall how they were allowed to improvise lines until things got way too weird.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

He was a legendary lawyer. She’s a Real Housewife. Together, Tom and Erika Girardi made a striking couple. He funded their lavish lifestyle with multimillion-dollar settlements. She used that money to create a career as a pop singer named Erika Jayne. But did they break the law to build their dream life?In this crossover episode with our sister podcast “The Times,” we get into a story straight out of a reality TV plotline. (The couple’s unraveling and legal travails are, in fact, included in this season of Bravo TV’s “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”)

It’s way more than fluff: Tom Girardi was a big-deal attorney — one of his cases served as the basis for the Julia Roberts film “Erin Brockovich” — and he wielded substantial political clout. But a troubling side recently emerged: Clients, including widows and orphans, say they never received tens of millions of dollars his firm was supposed to pass along to them.We speak to the Los Angeles Times investigative reporters who are covering the Girardis’ downfall. And we talk to the Los Angeles Times television reporter about why the public just can’t turn away from this story.

More reading:
Vegas parties, celebrities and boozy lunches: How legal titan Tom Girardi seduced the State Bar
The legal titan and the ‘Real Housewife’: The rise and fall of Tom Girardi and Erika Jayne
‘Real Housewives’ attorney Tom Girardi used cash and clout to forge powerful political connections

Director Kemp Powers and actor Jeffrey Wright talk superheroes and satire with our Envelope hosts Shawn Finnie and Yvonne Villarreal.

In the Emmy-season premiere of The Envelope video podcast, we sit down with Maya Erskine, star of Amazon Prime Video's acclaimed reimagination of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith," and Viet Thanh Nguyen and Don McKellar, who brought Nguyen's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "The Sympathizer" to life on HBO. 

Academy Award nominee Michelle Yeoh has been a worldwide movie star for decades, known for action-packed roles in films such as “Supercop” and “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and as a Bond girl in “Tomorrow Never Dies.” But it’s her leading role in “Everything Everywhere All at Once” that Yeoh says finally let her show what she’s capable of.

In this episode of “The Envelope,” Yeoh discusses her first impressions of “Everything Everywhere’s” genre-bending script and bold gags. She reflects on her dangerous early-career stunts and how she was treated when she arrived in Hollywood (she makes a gloriously unimpressed sound while recalling that people were “quite stunned” when they realized she could speak English). Yeoh also goes deep on tokenism, aging and why she’s been praying every night to win an Oscar.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Writer-director Todd Field made two acclaimed films in the early 2000s and then disappeared from the big screen for 16 years. “Tár,” about the scandalous downfall of a classical music conductor, marks his return. The movie burst forth in dramatic fashion: Its screenplay took him only three months to write.

In this episode of “The Envelope,” Field breaks down how a Górecki composition inspired the internal rhythm of lead character Lydia Tár and discusses what it was like collaborating with star Cate Blanchett, who “always wants to do things that are dangerous.” He also explains why he’s delighted by reactions to his film — even those that are ferociously dismissive.

 To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Maggie Gyllenhaal discusses the “electrifying” experience that led to her adaptation of “The Lost Daughter.” Plus, she details her correspondence with anonymous author Elena Ferrante, her attempts to truthfully portray motherhood on screen and her hopes for future collaborations with her brother, Jake Gyllenhaal.

To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com

Oscar-nominated cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto talks about working with Martin Scorsese on "Killers of the Flower Moon" and  going from that project right to "Barbie." Songwriter Diane Warren chats about her Oscar-nominated song "The Fire Inside" and what it means to her to receive a 15th nomination. Finally, writer-director Justine Triet discusses her film "Anatomy of a Fall."

‘Succession,’ which earned a whopping 27 Emmy nominations for its final season, has captivated audiences with its complex, uber-wealthy characters. For director Mark Mylod, telling stories about family and social class is a reccuring theme — His credits include ‘Shameless’ and ‘The Menu’ — with surprisingly personal roots.

In this episode of The Envelope podcast, Mylod opens up about his fascination with this topic, takes us behind the scenes of the pivotal ‘Connor’s Wedding’ episode, and shares how he pushed through his comfort zone to take on more creative risks.

Oscar-nominated songwriters Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell sat with Mark Olsen to talk about 'What Was I Made For?' from 'Barbie' and how they approach writing songs.

In this week’s episode of The Envelope video podcast, Tyler James Williams reveals that the team behind "Abbott Elementary" actually loves frustrating viewers, and "Hacks" star Paul W. Downs weighs in on the debate over which shows in the Emmy race deserve to be described as a comedy. 
 

Mandy Moore reflects on the shocking Pearson family conversation in the latest "This is Us" episode, "Taboo," and teases what's coming up as the series finale nears. (Hint: Big Three trilogy episodes, Kate and Toby's relationship, Rebecca's final goodbye, and a pastrami sandwich.) Plus, what you can expect from her directorial debut, her parting words for Rebecca Pearson, and a blast from her past pop star life.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Christina Ricci wouldn’t want to know Misty Quigley in real life, but she has a protective soft spot for her “Yellowjackets” character. In this episode of “The Envelope,” Ricci delves into why she enjoys playing the impulsive outcast and what she values about the series’ unconventional exploration of trauma.

Ricci also reflects on her enduring connection to Wednesday Addams, recalls the two auditions that changed her life even though she didn’t land either part, and talks about how her acting career began as an escape from her unhappy childhood. Plus, if you want reading recommendations? She’s got you covered.  To read a full transcript of this interview, please visit the episode page at latimes.com.

Even before “Joker” opened in theaters, the film sparked debate over its violent content, and a narrative that seemed to track with that of the alienated, white male shooter who’s become our real-life recurring horror story.

An exploration of a familiar comic book character who has scared us for nearly 80 years, this iteration of his creation story is dividing critics over the sympathy it seeks to elicit for the Joker, played by Joaquin Phoenix.

Members of the Times film staff discuss “Joker” and the controversy surrounding it.

Film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) says the film strives to have the sensibility of Christopher Nolan’s “Dark Knight” trilogy, but it’s “nastier” and more “nihilistic and brutal.”

Entertainment columnist Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) calls the movie “a cynical and glib treatment of societal malaise,” and he says it’s neither as edgy nor as nervy as it presents itself.

And film reporter Sonaiya Kelley (@sonaiyak) enjoyed “Joker” but found it “relentlessly dark,” and says that while she watched it, she kept checking the exits because she was afraid someone was going to come in and try to kill members of the audience.

With its premieres at major international film festivals, Warner Bros. is shrewdly positioning “Joker” as more artistically substantial than your average, blockbuster comic book movie, Chang says.

In our new cultural news segment, host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) and Kelley discuss how the impeachment inquiry has impacted late-night TV and celebrity culture.

And in the “Glenn Whipp Awards Minute,” Whipp shares his thoughts about Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” after seeing it at the New York Film Festival.

As there has been increased attention given to issues of representation, inclusion and diversity regarding what goes on-screen and who is involved in making the movies that we see, there has also recently been a parallel conversation gaining momentum with regards to the media itself. Who are the people who write the reviews, cover the red carpets, attend the film festivals and how do their perspectives impact how movies are discussed and received? From the LA Times film team, Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson), Jen Yamato (@JenYamato), Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) get into the nuance of what this all means for the media and the reviews and coverage of films such as “Sicario: Day of the Soldado,” “Nancy,” “Sorry To Bother You,” “Ocean’s 8” and “BlacKkKlansman.”

Host Mark Olsen speaks with director Lauren Greenfield about her latest documentary, “The Kingmaker,” which explores the extravagant lifestyle and rise to power of former First Lady Imelda Marcos in the Philippines. They discuss the origin of the story and what it was like for Greenfield to meet and cover Imelda Marcos. You’ll also hear from Glenn Whipp about the latest awards season buzz. Plus, Olsen talks with Jen Yamato about the Martin Scorsese controversy over Marvel movies.

Film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) sits down with Oscar nominated director Greta Gerwig to discuss her film, Lady Bird. In this exclusive interview they discuss various filmmaking topics, including the history of female directors, the role of spirituality in Lady Bird and the importance of fonts.

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This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Lady Bird and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

When the movie HEATHERS was shown at the 1989 US Film Festival, now known as Sundance, the Los Angeles Times film critic Sheila Benson wrote: “No amount of production sheen or acting skill seems excuse enough for the film's scabrous morality or its unprincipled viciousness.”

In The New Yorker, Pauline Kael wrote the script for the black comedy “promises that the picture will lift off into the junior division of Blue Velvetland. But layers of didacticism weigh it down.”

But HEATHERS has survived the test of time to become a cult sensation, and is now being celebrated on the 30th anniversary of its theatrical release.

With its big hair and big shoulder pads, the film took on the nasty high school caste system in a way that was ahead of its time. HEATHERS turned the common cruelty of most teen films of that era on its head. In a conversation with LA Times film writer Mark Olsen, (@IndieFocus ) the movie’s writer, director and one of its Heathers explain that the film was designed as an antidote to John Hughes movies.

And later, Fosse/Verdon fans don’t want to miss Olsen's talk with Steven Levenson, the Tony-winning writer of Dear Evan Hanson, and a writer and executive producer of the miniseries on FX.

Our guest is artist and filmmaker Garrett Bradley, who earned a documentary feature Oscar nomination for “Time,” about subject Fox Rich’s 21-year fight to free her husband from prison. Bradley talks about weaving together archival and contemporary footage, why she's obsessed with shooting close-ups of her characters, and how vintage piano jazz composed by an Ethiopian nun became the emotional score for the film. Photo courtesy of Garrett Bradley.

For more Envelope exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for the Envelope newsletter.

We’re back with more TV and film recommendations for you and your family while you’re spending some extra time at home. Our team is still self-isolated, so we continue to check in with our entertainment colleagues to see what they’re watching. LA Times film critic Justin Chang talks with host Mark Olsen about some light-hearted comedies he recommends for all of us to watch from home. Plus, TV Critic Robert Lloyd joins the show to talk about two shows he recently reviewed and whether they’re worth checking out: The new FX on Hulu sci-fi series “Devs” and HBO’s “The Plot Against America.”

For our last Oscars-centric episode this season, Sarah Rodman (@SarahARodman) talks to Justin Chang (@JustinCChang), Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp), Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) and Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) about their experiences covering the Academy Awards last Sunday.

From the red carpet to star-studded after parties to cheers and gasps in the press pit, these reporters saw and heard it all.

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This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get The Shape of Water and many other Award-winning films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Our guest is actor Amanda Seyfried, who earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Marion Davies in “Mank.” Seyfried talks about why this performance is her favorite to date, what it was like to meet the film’s director, David Fincher, for the first time, and the prep she’s doing for her next role playing disgraced Silicon Valley executive Elizabeth Holmes.

For more exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for our Envelope newsletter. Guest photo by Michael Nagle.

Writer-director Noah Baumbach sits down with Mark Olsen to talk about his latest film “Marriage Story.” He describes the inspiration for his movie and how he was able to find love through divorce while creating the film. Plus, Times entertainment writers Jen Yamato and Justin Chang on "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" and "Cats."

On this week’s episode of The Reel, LA Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) sits down with Meredith Blake (@MeredithBlake), Robert Lloyd (@LATimesTVLloyd), and Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) to discuss HBO’s latest season of 'True Detective' starring Mahershala Ali. They also reflect back on David Chase's HBO series ‘The Sopranos’ 20 years after its premiere.

"The Last Black Ma In San Francisco" is a film about a friendship, a family, a house, a city, and its community. San Francisco serves as a stand-in for cities across the country undergoing gentrification.

The film — which won two prizes at the Sundance Film Festival — captures the deep sense of loss that overcomes families who are pushed from their homes and stripped of their communal experience.

It’s another installment in the recent wave of films out of the Bay Area, made by people of color — about people of color.

Host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with colleagues @GerrickKennedy, @JustinCChang and @JenYamato.

Later on, Olsen talks about LATE NIGHT with critic @KennethTuran and film editor @geoffberkshire. What’s the future for this kind of smart, charming mid-level gem in a streaming world? Will they continue to fill up theaters?

With the Oscars behind us, the 2021 Emmys season is kicking into gear. And we’re looking back at our favorite conversations with TV stars and directors this season, including Steve McQueen, Kaley Cuoco, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant, Anya Taylor-Joy and Josh O’Connor. For more exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for our Envelope newsletter.

Hear directly from L.A. Times entertainment reporters about how they cover the biggest night in Hollywood. Arts and film writer Jeffrey Fleishman (@JeffreyLA), film reporter Josh Rottenberg (@joshrottenberg) and Hollywood writer Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) discuss where they were last year when the La La Land/Moonlight fiasco happened, why Warren Beatty refused to let go of the envelope and what we might expect from this year's ceremony.

Also, hear from Assistant Managing Editor Mary Mcnamara (@marymacTV) and Glenn Weiss, the director of the Oscars ceremony.

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This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Get Out and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

This week Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) leads a conversation breaking down the Golden Globe nominations and what they mean for the awards season landscape. We discuss the controversial nominee Green Book, how Black Panther earned Marvel Studios it's first nomination, the crowd-pleasing results from the Globe's distinct drama and comedy categories, and what we might expect from the unusual host pairing of Andy Samberg and Sandra Oh. Mark is joined by Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp), Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) and Ashley Lee (@cashleelee).

In the inaugural episode, Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) and Jen Yamato (@jenyamato) discuss #TimesUp and the changing landscape of sexism in Hollywood in a post-Weinstein era.

Writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) shares highlights from this year’s star-studded Envelope Roundtables, including moments with Jordan Peele, Jessica Chastain, and Saoirse Ronan.

Finally, L.A. Times film critics Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) weigh in with their predictions for nominees in the top categories at the 2018 Oscars, considering the implications certain nominations may have in the current cultural moment

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This podcast is supported by iTunes Movies. Get Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, The Big Sick, and many other Award-nominated films on iTunes. Go to iTunes.com/Oscars2018.

Our guest is actor Kate Winslet, who plays a Pennsylvania police detective in the new HBO series “Mare of Easttown.” Winslet talks about how she got the Delaware County accent down for the series, sharing a house with fellow actors Guy Pearce and Jean Smart and how she was able to hold her breath for more than 7 minutes for "Avatar 2."

For more exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for our Envelope newsletter. Guest photo by Frederic Auerbach.

Our guest is Barry Jenkins, the director and showrunner for "The Underground Railroad," which is based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name. Jenkins talks about his artistic vision for the show, why he chose a television format over film, and what he learned from making "Moonlight" and "If Beale Street Could Talk." For more exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for our Envelope newsletter. Guest photo courtesy of GL Askew II.

The Los Angeles Times is in Austin for South by Southwest, the the annual festival of film, music, technology, art, culture, tacos, barbecue, partying - and something of a laboratory think tank for the future.

Times film writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with @marcmaron, who's expanding his wings as a movie actor, along with director @lynnsheltonfilm, who saw him as a star. Olsen also interviews @alexgibneyfilm, whose documentary about Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes, THE INVENTOR: OUT FOR BLOOD IN SILICON VALLEY, is set to debut on HBO.

And in a preview of next week's episode, Austin native Ethan Hawke shares his affection for SXSW, and says "its DNA is a little more punk rock than any other festival in America."

While Netflix’s “Mindhunter” is based in a time when serial killers were shocking and terrifying Americans, the second season of David Fincher’s true-crime drama feels especially topical and relevant for our time.

With a primary focus on the Atlanta child murders — a series of killings, mostly of black children in and around the city between 1979 and 1981 — the show examines disturbingly contemporary topics like distrust of police, embedded racism and white supremacist violence.

It also addresses questions of which crimes get investigated and which victims garner wide public sympathy.

The real-life Atlanta case was recently reopened because of continuing questions over whether the crimes were ever truly solved. While Wayne Williams was convicted of killing two adults —and is serving life in prison — he was never tried in the child homicides because of a lack of evidence.

“Mindhunter” also features portrayals of some of the most infamous serial killers in American history, including Charles Manson and David “Son of Sam” Berkowitz.

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Lorraine Ali (@LorraineAli) and Matt Brennan (@thefilmgoer).

HBO may not have known it had a hit on its hands in 2011, but the premiere of the final season of GAME OF THRONES shattered ratings records for the network.

Viewing of the series has reached a fever pitch and blown up Twitter, while fans divine clues over who will live, who will die, and who will win the Iron Throne.

LA Times film writer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus ) is joined by @marymacTV, @tracycbrown and @MeredithBlake to ponder deep cuts and the series' role in the history of modern television.

When was the last time the public had to say goodbye to a show long before growing tired of it?

‘The Farewell,’ a film about a Chinese American woman with an all-Asian cast and dialogue that is largely in Mandarin, has surpassed ‘Avengers: Endgame’ with the largest per-theater box office average this year.

Starring Awkwafina — the scene-stealer from ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ — the heartfelt dramedy provides the latest evidence of the power of a key underserved audience. But ‘The Farewell’ also tells a universal story of family, love, and grief that anyone can relate to.

When filmmaker Lulu Wang pitched the semi-autobiographical story of her family’s efforts to keep her grandmother from learning of her Stage 4 cancer diagnosis, studio executives pushed for a white love interest, and a Chinese version of ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding.’

But Wang stuck to her vision, and refused to resort to a predictable storyline.

Will this tale of an American immigrant family be the indie hit for the summer of 2019?

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Times film critic Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) and Times film reporter Jen Yamato (@jenyamato).

Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) brings in reporters Jen Yamato (@JenYamato), Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA), and Yvonne Villarreal (@villarrealy) to talk about Netflix's recent wave of new romantic comedies. Focusing on the films Set It Up, The Kissing Booth, and Ibiza, the group discusses the timeless appeal of romcoms, why they are the perfect movies for summer, and how these type of movies and their inherent charm let actors become stars.

Two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster has been a presence in the entertainment business for more than fifty years, first as a child actor in films such as “Bugsy Malone” and “Taxi Driver,” then as an adult star in projects like “The Accused” and “The Silence of the Lambs” and later as a director herself. Recently in the LA Times building to promote the episode of the “Black Mirror” anthology she directed, she also stopped by The Reel recording studio to talk with Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) about the sci-fi crime drama “Hotel Artemis,” her first on-screen role in five years.

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) sits down with Glenn Whipp (@GlennWhipp) and Justin Chang (@JustinCChang) to take an early look at the 2019 Oscar nominations. They discuss key takeaways from the nominated films, including an increase in internationally focused nominations and the significance behind the “best director” category.

Our guest is Shira Haas, the star of the Netflix miniseries “Unorthodox.” Haas talks about how she tapped into her Israeli roots to play an Orthodox Jewish character, handles her newfound American fame, and promotes her work during a pandemic. Photo credit: Eyal Nevo.

For more Envelope exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for the Envelope newsletter.

Our guest is Jurnee Smollett, who plays Letitia “Leti” Lewis in HBO’s horror drama “Lovecraft Country.” Smollett talks about drawing on her own family history in preparation for this role, finding power through art, and playing charades with Samuel L. Jackson. Photo credit: Courtesy of Jurnee Smollett.

For more Envelope exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for the Envelope newsletter.

Sponsors include:

Apple TV Plus, presenting "Wolfwalkers," the animated film. Go to fyc.appletvplus.com for more.

Film critic Kenneth Turan (@KennethTuran) and reporters Amy Kaufman (@AmyKinLA) and Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) join host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) to discuss the new hit movie, A Star is Born. They talk all about Bradley Cooper's directing debut, how the movie compares to previous iterations, and Lady Gaga's performance.

Our guest is Josh O’Connor, who was nominated for Golden Globe and SAG awards for his portrayal of Prince Charles in the Netflix show “The Crown.” O’Connor talks about the challenges of playing a real-life character in a fictional series, the scrapbooks he makes to get into the right mind-set for acting roles, and his love of ceramics. Photo credit: Matt Holyoak.

For more Envelope exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for the Envelope newsletter.

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) was joined by Director Steven Soderbergh, to talk about his new film “High Flying Bird,” which premiered at Slamdance Film Festival last month. The Oscar-winning filmmaker takes us inside his movie-making process, including what it's like shooting a movie entirely on a smartphone.

SPOILER ALERT: Spoilers start at 18:10!

Eleven years, 22 films, $18 billion and counting at the global box office: Avengers: Endgame is finally in theaters, bringing to a close a chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

It’s been a big emotional investment for fans, and judging by the reaction of some of its stars, it’s been one for the actors as well.

Meanwhile, over the course of the franchise, MCU’s longform storytelling has redefined Hollywood.

Fans have had a lengthy relationship with these characters. Are they ready for the endgame?

Today’s episode is in two parts: The first is spoiler-free, but that is followed by a section for people who have seen the film. So listen for the cues and come back to take it all in, both before and after your trip to the theater. There’s a lot to process.

Let’s listen in.

SPOILER ALERT: Spoilers start at 18:10!

Host Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) talks with Jen Yamato (@JenYamato) and Tre'vell Anderson (@TrevellAnderson) about the making of the Deadpool franchise, it's unique marketing techniques, and how this new sequel stands out from the other superhero movies that have come out around the same time.

Also, our reporters frankly discuss the difficulties of asking tough questions at movie press stops while surrounded a hyped-up, fan-filled audience.

On this week’s episode of The Reel, L.A. Times feature writer and reviewer Mark Olsen (@IndieFocus) is joined by Director Spike Lee and two of his longtime collaborators, composer Terence Blanchard and editor Barry Alexander Brown. They discuss the success of their latest, “BlacKkKlansman” and the lasting impact of the film.

Host Mark Olsen talks with Taron Egerton, who plays Elton John in the film “Rocketman.” They discuss how Egerton prepared to portray the music-icon in the film. Egerton also talks about the close friendship he’s formed with the “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” singer. Plus, Olsen talks with television critic Lorraine Ali about all that’s happening with Gabrielle Union and “America’s Got Talent.”

Our guest is Radha Blank, writer, director and star of the film “The Forty-Year-Old Version.” Blank talks about her experiences with discrimination and gatekeepers in the arts, the empowerment of Black voices, and her rap persona, “RadhaMUSprime.” Photo credit: Jeong Park/Netflix.

For more Envelope exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for the Envelope newsletter.

Our guests are actress and producer Aubrey Plaza and writer and director Lawrence Michael Levine, who teamed up on the film “Black Bear.” Plaza and Levine talk about the head-spinning plot, working on commercial versus independent films, and collaborating on set. Photo credit: Brian Bowen Smith.

For more Envelope exclusive awards season coverage, visit latimes.com/envelope and sign up for the Envelope newsletter.

Sponsors include:

Apple TV Plus, presenting “Boys State,” the Critics Choice Award and Sundance Grand Jury winner for Best Documentary. Go to fyc.appletvplus.com for more.