FOLLOWING FILMS

Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s The Studio is more than just a send-up of Hollywood’s chaotic inner workings—it’s a sharp, self-aware comedy that extends far beyond the film industry. At its heart, the series dissects the challenges of leadership, the moral compromises of success, and the universal struggle with imposter syndrome. Whether you’re an executive, a creative, or someone navigating the climb of corporate ambition, The Studio hits on themes that feel uncomfortably familiar. The series follows Matt Remick (played by Rogen), a film enthusiast-turned-studio chief who unexpectedly takes over operations at Continental Studios after the departure of his mentor. From the start, Matt faces impossible choices, constantly torn between his passion for artistic integrity and the relentless commercial pressures of the industry. His moral compass is put to the test when he’s forced to champion a big-budget Kool-Aid Man movie, despite knowing it’s a ridiculous corporate cash grab. Meanwhi...

The highly anticipated drama The Big Bend is set to be released on Digital and On-Demand platforms on April 11, 2025. The film, written and directed by Brett Wagner, has already garnered critical praise, currently holding a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The Big Bend features an ensemble cast, including Jason Butler Harner (Ozark), Virginia Kull (Big Little Lies), Erica Ash (Outlaw Johnny Black), and David Sullivan (Argo). The film follows the story of two families who gather for a long-overdue reunion in the remote West Texas desert. What begins as a simple get-together soon takes an unexpected turn as the characters navigate personal crises and hidden secrets. Set against the backdrop of one of America's most rugged landscapes, the film explores themes of marriage, friendship, and parenthood as the families strive to endure the unfolding events. With its upcoming release, The Big Bend is poised to reach a wider audience following its strong reception from critics. The combinatio...

  Welcome to Following Films, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of independent cinema and the filmmakers who bring these stories to life. I'm your host, Chris Maynard, and today, we have a fantastic conversation lined up. Joining me is Imani Davis, a key figure behind the Proof Film Festival, a groundbreaking event dedicated to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking films. We’ll be discussing what makes this festival unique, the kind of films audiences can expect, and how it’s creating new opportunities for emerging filmmakers. Be sure to check out the festival at www.prooffilmfestival.com for more details on screenings, events, and how you can be part of this exciting cinematic experience. Now, let’s jump into the conversation with Imani Davis!

Bleecker Street is teaming up with Fathom Entertainment to bring This Is Spinal Tap back to the big screen in all its glory. The 1984 cult classic is getting a fully remastered and definitive 4K restoration, set to hit theaters across the U.S. with exclusive screenings on July 5, 6, and 7. Created by Rob Reiner, Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, This Is Spinal Tap follows England’s loudest and most spectacularly unlucky band on their calamitous U.S. tour. Since its original release, the film has earned critical acclaim and a devoted following, eventually being recognized as "culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant" by the National Film Registry in 2002. This special theatrical run comes hot on the heels of Bleecker Street’s acquisition of U.S. distribution rights for both the original film and its highly anticipated sequel, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, which will hit theaters on September 12. The screenings also mark the third collabor...

FLIGHT RISK (2024) is a suspenseful and engaging thriller directed by Mel Gibson, starring Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Dockery, and Topher Grace. The film delivers a gripping narrative that unfolds in the confined space of an aircraft, creating an atmosphere of intense psychological tension. By blending action with mystery, Flight Risk keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as it explores themes of trust, deception, and survival in a high-stakes environment. The film’s unique premise, strong performances, and well-crafted direction make it an intriguing addition to the thriller genre. The story follows Daryl (Mark Wahlberg), a seasoned pilot who is assigned to transport a fugitive named Winston (Topher Grace) alongside Air Marshal Madolyn (Michelle Dockery). The flight, which starts as a routine mission, quickly descends into chaos as the characters' true intentions and hidden secrets begin to emerge. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are drawn into a tense and unpredictable situa...

The long-running and fan-favorite horror series Final Destination is set to make its return with Final Destination Bloodlines, bringing a new chapter of supernatural terror to the big screen. Scheduled for a theatrical and IMAX release on May 16, 2025, in the U.S. (and internationally beginning May 14), the film promises to continue the franchise’s tradition of chilling premonitions and inescapable fate. The upcoming installment features a fresh ensemble cast, including Kaitlyn Santa Juana (The Friendship Game, The Flash), Teo Briones (Chucky, Will vs. The Future), Richard Harmon (The 100, The Age of Adaline), Owen Patrick Joyner (Julie and the Phantoms, 100 Things to Do Before High School), and Anna Lore (They/Them, Gotham Knights). Also joining the cast are Brec Bassinger (Stargirl, Bella and the Bulldogs) and horror icon Tony Todd, who reprises his role from the original Final Destination films. Todd, best known for his chilling portrayal of the titular character in the Candyman fra...

Few songs capture the raw energy of the 1980s quite like Maniac, the electrifying hit made famous by Michael Sembello in the classic film Flashdance. Now, decades later, the punk-infused power of Tess and The Details is giving this beloved track a fresh, high-voltage revival. In this episode of The Following Films, we sit down with the band to dive into their bold reimagining of Maniac—exploring what drew them to the song, how they infused their signature sound into the arrangement, and what it means to bring new life to an ‘80s anthem. From studio insights to the personal connections they have with the track, this conversation peels back the layers of their creative process and the thrill of covering a song that still gets hearts racing today.