Hello, my fellow friends who are raising cinephiles,

It’s been a minute since I posted here. At the top of the year, I was trying to figure out how to evolve this podcast—how to move it forward in a way that felt fresh and genuinely fun. The conversations started to converge for me, and I began wondering if maybe the best way forward was to build something together—a way to raise a new generation of kids who truly live to go to the movies.

And then the fire happened.
And my life changed.
And I had to go quiet for a while.

Now things are finally settling, and I’m finding my way back to the things that light me up.

What really brought me back, though?
I took my son to the movies this weekend.

He turned four on Saturday—we had a big, joyful birthday party. And then on Sunday, friends with slightly older kids invited us to join them for a Zootopia 2 screening. I jumped at the chance. The theater was PACKED. The room was buzzing. And most importantly—my son loved it.

He sat through the entire movie.
He grabbed my hand during the thrilling parts.
He danced to the music at the end.

It was such a success that I realized: I can’t abandon this mission. I will raise a cinephile.

Thank you, Zootopia 2, for reminding me why I love movies. It’s not just the story—it’s the ritual. The shared experience. The popcorn. The feeling of sitting in the dark with someone you love and disappearing into another world together.

So… I want to come back strong in 2026.

The cadence might be a little slower at first while I find my footing again. But before I build this next chapter, I need something from you:

Your feedback.

Which brings me to my first poll…

It’s been a crazy start to the year, with Raising Cinephiles on an extended hiatus after the Palisades Fire; I want to share one of my favorite episodes from last year in honor of The White Lotus finale airing this week. This episode features the iconic Carrie Coon, whose portrayal of Laurie is lighting up mom group chats across the country.

Carrie Coon originally joined me, host Jessica Kantor, on Raising Cinephiles to discuss her introduction to cinema at her grandparent's house and a discovery of how her introduction to cinema may have influenced bringing Bertha Russell to life in The Gilded Age. Season two is now streaming on Max. 

I’m unsure when or if I’ll bring this podcast back once I’m fully settled in NYC, but I’d love to know what you think in the poll below.

Originally from Copley, OH, Carrie Coon is a Chicago-based theatre, television and film actress. She received a BA in English and Spanish from the University of Mount Union and her MFA in Acting at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Coon was nominated for a Tony Award in the Best Featured Actress category for her Broadway debut as Honey in the transfer of Steppenwolf Theatre's production of "Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?", directed by Pam MacKinnon. Although Coon did not win in 2013, the production was awarded Best Revival, Best Director (MacKinnon) and Best Actor (Tracy Letts).

EPISODE CREDITS:
Host, Producer, Editor: Jessica Kantor
Booker: Noelia Murphy

Be sure to follow and tag Raising Cinephiles on  Instagram
 

It’s the holiday season on Raising Cinephiles! Jessica sits down with returning guest and holiday enthusiast Lily Vonnegut for a relaxed, festive chat about family movie traditions, favorite holiday flicks, and finding the right balance between cultural identity and seasonal fun.

This episode is all about cozy vibes, laughter, and the magic of movies—whether it’s Christmas lights or Hanukkah donuts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What’s Inside the Episode?

🎥 Kicking It Off

Jessica and Lily dive right into their favorite topic—movies! Jessica shares how her toddler, Miles, is more into roaring dinosaurs than reindeer this year, and Lily has some advice on introducing holiday movies to little ones.

🕎 Balancing Hanukkah and Holiday Cheer

Jessica opens up about raising her son in a Jewish household while still embracing the sparkle of Christmas. Lily offers tips for keeping the holidays inclusive and stress-free.

🎄 Holiday Movies for Every Mood

Whether it’s animated favorites like Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas and Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas or classics like Home Alone and Elf, Lily and Jessica break down the best films for kids and adults alike.

🥡 Jewish Christmas Traditions

Jessica shares her family’s “Jewish Christmas” tradition—Chinese food and a movie—and how it’s become a core memory for her. (Bonus: Holiday lights tours with a sprinkle of Hanukkah flair!)

🍩 Sweet Family Traditions

From creating hot chocolate bars to baking jelly donuts, Jessica and Lily explore fun ways to make holiday movie nights even more special. And yes, mini gingerbread houses might appear.

Movies Mentioned in This Episode

• For the Kids: Polar Express, Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, Sing.

• For the Whole Family: Home Alone, Elf, White Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street.

• For the Grown-Ups: The Holiday, Love Actually, Gremlins, Die Hard.

Holiday Traditions to Try

• Host a December movie marathon with hot cocoa and cozy blankets.

• Explore movies that feel festive without being tied to one holiday.

• Create your own traditions with family movie nights, themed snacks, or lights tours.

Let’s Connect!

What movies make your holiday season magical? Share your picks on social media and tell Jessica how you celebrate through cinema.

Follow Jessica on Instagram: @jesskantor @raisingcinephiles
Stay Tuned: Raising Cinephiles will take a break at the top of 2025, but we’ll be back soon with more fun and inspiration.

🎄 Happy Holidays and Happy Watching! 🎬

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Episode Description: In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Raising Cinephiles, Jessica Kantor sits down with producer, podcaster, and new mom Carolina Groppa. They discuss their shared love of cinema, the challenges of raising children while maintaining creative careers, and the transformative journey of motherhood. Carolina reflects on her upbringing in Brazil, her evolution from actor to producer, and how her experiences shape her approach to storytelling, community, and family. Together, they explore the balance of being both present mothers and passionate creators, offering listeners a raw and honest glimpse into the realities of working parents in the entertainment industry.

Key Highlights:

1. First Media Memory & The Power of Storytelling

• Carolina’s first impactful TV experience was watching The Wonder Years, dubbed in Portuguese, as a child in Brazil.

• Despite cultural and geographic differences, Carolina felt seen by the show’s themes of growing up and self-reflection, highlighting the universal nature of storytelling.

• Discussion on how certain shows and films shape us at a young age, even when we don't understand the technical aspects of filmmaking.

2. Growing Up with Cinema

• Carolina’s father’s love of classic comedies and cinema influenced her taste, with movies like Amadeus and National Lampoon’s Vacation becoming family staples.

• Moving to the U.S., TV shows like Full House and Family Matters became tools for learning English, reflecting the power of entertainment as an educational tool.

3. Discovering Personal Taste

• Carolina’s taste in film and TV evolved in high school and college when she began studying classic films.

• She reflects on how taste is fluid, growing alongside life experience.

• Jessica and Carolina discuss how aesthetic preferences (like color palettes and visual storytelling) impact their appreciation of certain directors like Aronofsky and Almodóvar.

4. From Acting to Producing

• Carolina’s path into the entertainment industry began with acting, but she later found her passion for producing.

• Early frustrations with the acting industry’s limitations and the 2008 writer’s strike led Carolina to seek new opportunities.

• Producing became a natural fit for her skills, and her experience as an actor helps her support other creatives and connect with story-driven content.

5. Navigating Motherhood & Career

• Carolina reflects on becoming a mother and the mental load of balancing her career and family.

• She opens up about her community's support and how her mother’s help has been instrumental in navigating early motherhood.

• Jessica and Carolina discuss the importance of "mom networks" and how having a strong community of working mothers in the industry provides essential support and inspiration.

6. Screen Time & Early Cinema Exposure

• Carolina and Jessica discuss their philosophies on screen time for kids. Carolina notes that her six-month-old is already aware of smartphones and FaceTime.

• Jessica shares her strategy of prioritizing slow-paced, thoughtful shows over fast, overly-stimulating content.

• Carolina’s "must-show" list for her son includes classics like Amelie, Big Fish, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and The Lion King, as well as more contemporary favorites like Little Miss Sunshine and Forrest Gump.

7. Reflections on Mentorship

• Carolina’s concept of mentorship isn’t a singular fairy godmother figure but a "village" of mentors made up of her peers, colleagues, and friends.

• The importance of community and how her podcast, Angle on Producers, became a platform to share wisdom, elevate underrepresented voices, and archive the often invisible work of producers.

8. Final Thoughts on Raising a Cinephile

• Carolina hopes to instill in her son an appreciation for storytelling and human connection through film.

• Her "essential movie" recommendation for Jessica’s son is Amelie, a film that celebrates kindness, imagination, and being true to oneself.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Every film for me was a cathartic experience… If I was with someone who didn’t understand that, I’d be like, how could you possibly just leave this theater?” — Carolina Groppa.

• “I’ve always had this internal feeling that as an immigrant, I can’t come here and not succeed at something.” — Carolina Groppa

• “If you want to get something done, give it to a woman. If you want it done well, give it to a mom.” — Carolina Groppa

• “I’m here to be abundant and give it away… What am I going to do with all this knowledge once I die?” — Carolina Groppa

About Carolina Groppa: Carolina Groppa is an award-winning producer, podcaster, and creative powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Best known as the host of Angle on Producers, Carolina shines a spotlight on producers' often unseen but essential role in film and television. As a producer, her credits include The Honorable: Shayne and Autism in Love, and she’s an advocate for transparent conversations about the industry’s challenges and opportunities. She’s also a new mom, navigating the balance of career and family with humor, heart, and an abundance mindset.

Follow Carolina:

• Instagram: @carolinagroppa

• Podcast: Angle on Producers

Don’t Miss This Episode If:

• You’re a working parent looking for inspiration and solidarity.

• You’re curious about the journey from acting to producing.

• You’re a cinephile interested in hearing how love for story and film is passed from generation to generation.

Join the Conversation: Do you love this episode? Please share it with a friend and leave a review. Stay tuned for deeper insights into the magic of cinema and how it connects us across generations.

Next Episode: Don’t miss our final episode of the season before our break. Jessica will be back in mid-2025 with fresh stories, insightful guests, and all-new ways to inspire a love of cinema in the next generation. Stay subscribed and check out the Raising Cinephiles archive of over 70 episodes!

In this special episode of Raising Cinephiles, Jessica Kantor sits down with filmmaker Michael Felker, director of Things Will Be Different, and his father, Douglas Felker, for an unforgettable multi-generational conversation about the power of movies to shape our lives and relationships. From first movie memories to the films that inspired them as creators and cinephiles, the Felkers explore how cinematic experiences create lasting bonds.

The trio dives deep into childhood movie milestones, navigating age-appropriate films, and how to approach "radical" films like Fight Club as teaching moments. Michael reflects on how family film nights informed his storytelling in Things Will Be Different, while Douglas offers insight into the enduring magic of 2001: A Space Odyssey and how it terrified him as a child and a parent. The episode closes with heartfelt advice on how to raise a cinephile in an age of screens and short attention spans.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• [00:01:00] Douglas' First Movie Memory: Watching 2001: A Space Odyssey at age 6 and the childhood nightmares it inspired.

• [00:03:00] Michael's First Movie Memory: Walking into the middle of Aladdin at age 4 and being awestruck by the giant screen and bold animation.

• [00:09:00] Family Film Night Traditions: How VHS tapes, DVDs, and "Friday night movies" with pizza became essential to family bonding.

• [00:11:00] The "Age Gates" Philosophy: Douglas' strategy for introducing films like Fight Club and Pulp Fiction at "just the right time" — and Michael’s perspective on how it shaped him as a cinephile.

• [00:15:00] Father-Son Film Debates: The Felkers' ongoing conversations about movies like Back to the Future, The Matrix, and 12 Monkeys — and how different "time travel rules" apply.

• [00:24:00] Movie Conversations that Last a Lifetime: Why analyzing films like Pulp Fiction together builds connection, not just cinephilia.

• [00:30:00] Raising a Cinephile in the Age of Screens: Jessica's story of renting a theater for her son's first movie (The Red Balloon) and how she introduces Miyazaki classics like Ponyo and My Neighbor Totoro to her toddler.

• [00:32:00] The Magic of Miyazaki: Why Spirited Away at age 8 is a "perfect bridge" from childhood to a more expansive, imaginative world.

• [00:38:00] Essential Film Recommendations from Michael & Douglas: From Spirited Away at age 8 to Fight Club at age 15 — plus Douglas’ thoughtful approach to introducing movies that help kids through the toughest life transitions.

Must-Watch Movies Mentioned in This Episode:

• 2001: A Space Odyssey (Douglas’ first cinematic memory and a cross-generational staple)

• Aladdin (Michael’s first movie memory and a vivid introduction to the magic of animation)

• Back to the Future (A timeless lesson on adolescence and self-worth)

• The Matrix (Introduced to Michael at age 11, with big conversations on sci-fi and AI)

• Fight Club (The delicate balance of introducing complex ideas to a rebellious teen)

• Spirited Away (Both Michael and Douglas’ top pick for Jessica’s son at age 8)

• The Red Balloon (Jessica’s first cinematic introduction for her toddler)

• Pulp Fiction (The movie Jessica saw at 14 with her mom — and what it means to "come of age" too soon)

• Princess Mononoke (A “next-level” Miyazaki film introduced to Michael as a pre-teen)

• Time Traveler's Wife and Sliding Doors (Two films that spark great conversations about choice and destiny)

• Superbad (The comedy that defined Michael’s freshman year of college)

• Clockwork Orange (The "forbidden fruit" movie that Douglas delayed as long as possible)

Listener Challenge
Which movie would you recommend Jessica show her son as he grows older? Leave a comment with your pick; it might be featured in a future episode!

Follow and Support
If you loved this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. New episodes of Raising Cinephiles release every Wednesday. For more updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow Jessica Kantor and Raising Cinephiles on Instagram @jesskantor - @raisingcinephiles.

Watch Things Will Be Different
Follow Michael Felker

🎥 Be Part of the Conversation 🎥
Have a story about how movies shaped your childhood or relationship with your parents? Send us a message or comment — we'd love to feature your experience on the show!

Produced and Hosted by: Jessica Kantor
Special Guests: Filmmaker Michael Felker & Engineer/Cinephile Dad, Douglas Felker

🎬 "Every cinephile has a first film memory. What's yours?" 🎬

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In this thrilling episode of Raising Cinephiles, Jessica sits down with Steven C. Miller, the visionary director behind the upcoming action-horror film Werewolves, premiering December 6th (Jessica’s son’s birthday!). Together, they dive deep into:

🎞️ First Movie Memories: Steven recalls Friday nights filled with pizza and Back to the Future—a movie that’s still shaping the cultural zeitgeist today.
👩‍👧‍👦 Introducing Kids to Movies: From E.T. and Ghostbusters to accidentally-too-early screenings of Gremlins, Steven shares how he curated his kids’ cinematic experiences. Plus, the surprising story of how E.T. inspired his son’s name.
🐺 Behind the Scenes of Werewolves: Steven reveals what it’s like filming in sweltering Puerto Rico with practical werewolves, collaborating with legendary creature designers, and how the title Werewolves almost didn’t happen.
🎥 Parenting in Hollywood: Balancing filmmaking and family life, Steven discusses bringing his kids to set, their creative interests (his daughter might be the next great editor, and his son, a future game designer!), and making time for quality moments amidst the chaos.
👾 Gateway Horror & Retro Gaming: From Poltergeist to Goosebumps, discover how Steven bridges generations with classic scares and old-school games like Contra.

💡 Cinephile Homework: Don’t miss Steven’s ultimate recommendation for sparking a lifelong love of cinema—Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Hit play for an action-packed episode filled with heartwarming parenting tips, film nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes filmmaking secrets!

👉 Listen now and share your thoughts: What’s the one movie that sparked your love of cinema? Leave a comment, and don’t forget to subscribe for new episodes every Wednesday!

See WEREWOLVES in theaters on December 6, 2024. Visit the official Website to get movie tickets: https://www.werewolvesmovie.com/

#WEREWOLVES

🐺 Follow Steven C Miller on Instagram @StevenCMiller
🎞️ Follow Raising Cinephiles on Instagram @raisingcinephiles
🎧 Follow Jessica Kantor on Instagram: @jesskantor
🎥 Support the Show: Share this episode with a fellow cinephile and leave us a review!

Welcome to Episode 70 of Raising Cinephiles! This week, Jessica Kantor sits down with a truly unique guest: 10-year-old Jack Michalski, the son of frequent guest Lily Vonnegut. Jack shares his deep passion for cinema, his early memories of watching iconic films, and his exciting journey into screenwriting.

In this episode, you'll hear about:
🎥 Jack’s First Movie Memory: Watching E.T. at age six and how it sparked his love for movies and Steven Spielberg.
🦈 Jaws and Spielberg Films: Why Jaws didn’t scare Jack and how he prepared by diving into behind-the-scenes content.
🖋️ Jack’s Screenwriting Adventures: How a school project inspired Jack to write his first screenplay and his process for crafting stories like My Zombie Friend.
👻 The Horror Genre: Jack’s love for comedic horror films like Zombieland and Shaun of the Dead.
🎞️ Watching Movies as a Family: Jack’s movie nights with his mom, his favorite Tim Burton films, and recommendations for introducing kids to cinema.
🎬 Future Filmmaking Aspirations: Jack’s dreams of being a screenwriter and director and how he’s already planning his first productions.

Jack also shares his favorite tools for filmmaking, like storyboarding kits from the Academy Museum, and his advice for nurturing a love of cinema in kids.

Don’t miss Jack’s recommendations for Jessica’s young son and his thoughts on what makes a film timeless.

✨ Join the Conversation:
What movies sparked your love for cinema? Leave a comment, and let us know what films you’d recommend for kids exploring movies for the first time.

🗓️ New episodes every Wednesday! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share.

Follow Jessica Kantor and Raising Cinephiles for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Instagram: @jesskantor @raisingcinephiles
Website: Raising Cinephiles

Episode Description:
In this episode, Jessica Kantor speaks with the dynamic producer-director / wife-husband duo Joni Levin and Keith Clarke, renowned for their work on the documentary Call Me Ted. Together, they delve into their personal journeys with cinema, the universal power of movies to connect, inspire and share early memories that shaped their love for storytelling. They discuss their latest project on the life of Ted Turner and the invaluable life lessons that movies can teach both children and adults.

Listen as Joni and Keith share stories of family movie memories, discuss the impact of films on parenting, and explore how Ted Turner’s life reflects a unique drive to make the world a better place.

Key Topics Covered:

• Film’s Role in Childhood: Joni recounts her first movie experiences as an escape, and Keith shares how cinema transported him from his working-class upbringing in England.

• Influence of Cinema on Parenting: They discuss how watching movies as a family nurtures curiosity, empathy, and shared understanding with children, from early Disney films to impactful stories like Dead Poets Society and Bend It Like Beckham.

• Ted Turner Documentary Insights: Joni and Keith reveal the inspiration behind their latest project, Call Me Ted, detailing Turner’s fearless journey, from his trailblazing media ventures to his early advocacy for environmental preservation.

• Connecting through Movies: How stories on the big screen can bridge generations and serve as catalysts for family conversations about emotions, dreams, and resilience.

Quotable Moments:

• “The best movies transport us both emotionally and open our worlds up.” - Keith Clarke

• “Ted believed that with passion and determination, we could truly change the world.” - Joni Levin

Episode Highlights:

• 00:00-05:00: Jessica introduces the guests, Joni and Keith, and the conversation begins with their earliest movie memories, sharing touching stories of family and finding comfort in cinema.

• 10:00-15:00: Joni and Keith talk about their shared love of storytelling and the role of humor in films. Jessica reflects on how cinema provides a communal escape.

• 30:00-40:00: The two filmmakers discuss the journey of making Call Me Ted, offering insights into Ted Turner’s life, from his media empire to his lasting environmental legacy.

• 45:00-50:00: Advice for parents on curating movie experiences for children, including recommendations on films that inspire confidence, empathy, and personal growth.

Join the Conversation
Do you have a cherished movie memory from your childhood? Let us know in the comments, or tell us which film you think young cinephiles should experience!

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Don’t miss an episode! Follow Raising Cinephiles for new releases every Wednesday, where Jessica Kantor explores the world of cinema and family connections.

In this insightful episode of Raising Cinephiles, host Jessica Kantor sits down with award-winning actor John Lawson, who earned Best Actor at Slamdance for his role in the independent film Daruma. Together, they discuss John’s journey into acting, his influential family movie experiences, and the path that led him to star in Daruma, a film about a man …

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In this episode of Raising Cinephiles, Jessica Kantor sits down with Sue Kim, the director of the powerful new documentary The Last of the Sea Women, streaming on Apple T.V. starting October 11th. Sue shares her journey into filmmaking, from her early love of movies like E.T. and The Goonies to her eventual pivot from a career in commercial production to directing documentaries. She opens up about the personal and professional challenges she faced as a single mother working in the film industry and how parenting shaped her creative path.

Listeners will get an intimate look at the making of The Last of the Sea Women, a story about the Henyo, a community of elderly Korean women who have been free-diving and harvesting from the ocean for centuries, balancing motherhood and work in a matriarchal society. Sue reflects on the deep emotional connections the Henyo share with the ocean, how they care for and protect the environment, and their struggle to preserve their fading culture. Her passion for telling their story developed over a lifetime of fascination with these fearless women, is palpable.

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Episode Description: In this episode of Raising Cinephiles, host Jessica Kantor dives into the return of smoking on-screen. From the nostalgia-fueled imagery in shows like Stranger Things and The Queen’s Gambit to the resurgence of smoking in real life, we explore the cyclical relationship between Hollywood and cultural trends. Is smoking on-screen driving a real-world comeback, or is it reflecting a rebellion against wellness culture already underway? Join us as we question the allure of cigarettes in modern media and consider how we can talk to our kids about these powerful images.

Topics Covered:

• The history of smoking in cinema: from golden age glamour to modern resurgence.

• Truth Initiative's recent reports on tobacco imagery in popular streaming shows and award-winning films.

• How cultural nostalgia, aesthetic choices, and character development contribute to the rise of smoking in movies and TV.

• The real-world impact: Are we seeing a return to smoking in our social circles as a reflection of what’s on-screen, or is it vice versa?

• Conversations we should have with our kids to help them navigate tobacco imagery in the media they consume.

Films & Shows Mentioned:

• The Queen’s Gambit

• Stranger Things

• A Star is Born

• Babylon

• West Side Story

Links Cited in the Episode:

1. Truth Initiative - While You Were Streaming: Tobacco Imagery in Streaming Shows https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources/smoking-pop-culture/while-you-were-streaming#:~

   =TOBACCO%20USED%20TO%20BE%20ALL,Schmidt%E2%80%9D%20and%20%E2%80%9CDaredevil.%E2%80%9D

2. Truth Initiative - Tobacco Imagery Rising in Top Entertainment https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources/tobacco-pop-culture/tobacco-imagery-rising-top-entertainment-including-among#:~

   =Subtopic&text=Lights%2C%20Camera%2C%20Tobacco?&text=To%20find%20a%20smoke%2Dfree,rated%20and%20Oscar%2Dnominated%20movies.&text=While%20You%20Were%20Streaming%202023:%20Lights%2C%20Camera%2C%20Tobacco?&text=If%20playback%20doesn't%20begin%20shortly%2C%20try%20restarting%20your%20device

3. Vanity Fair - Smoking Is Back in Movies: Here's Why https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/smoking-in-movies-awards-insider#:~

   =Back%20in%20Movies.-,Here's%20Why,%2C%20character%2C%20and%20sometimes%20tragedy.&text=Bradley%20Cooper%20and%20Carey%20Mulligan,say%2C%20%E2%80%9CWhere's%20yours?%E2%80%9D

4. Truth Initiative - Tobacco: A Starring Role https://truthinitiative.org/tobacco-starring-role#:~

   =Tobacco%20imagery%20infiltrated%20films%20rated,West%20Side%20Story%2C%20PG%2D13

5. The Guardian - Smoking Is Back, and It’s Still Cool and Deadly https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/jul/02/smoking-is-back-and-its-still-cool-and-deadly

Connect with Us:

• Follow Jessica on Instagram: @jesskantor @RaisingCinephiles

• Share your thoughts on today’s episode and join the conversation. Let’s keep raising cinephiles who can think critically about what they see on-screen.

Episode Description:
In this episode of Raising Cinephiles, host Jessica Kantor delves into the world of children’s movies and how they shape parenting experiences. Jessica shares her personal journey watching beloved films like Curious George, Finding Nemo, and Luca with her son. These iconic movies not only entertain but also teach valuable life lesson…

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On Labor Day, I took my son to Malibu for the annual chili cook-off. We arrived early to snag good parking, and we found ourselves at the playground with some extra time to spare. My son, as usual, made a beeline for the sandbox, and I watched as he eagerly joined a group of older kids.

Just ahead of the play structure, two girls—maybe 4 or 5 years old—were intently playing with a miniature garden shovel and a few sand buckets. They seemed to have established their own kingdom in the sand, completely absorbed in their world. That is, until a younger boy, probably no more than 18 months old, toddled over, his steps still uncertain. He looked intrigued, eager to join their game, but the girls were not so keen.

Without warning, one of the girls, clearly irritated, scooped up a handful of sand with the shovel and flung it directly at the boy. His tiny face registered a mix of confusion and shock. I watched as the girl glanced around to see if any adults had witnessed her actions. Satisfied that no one had, she lifted the metal shovel, poised to strike him. It was one of those rare moments where time seemed to slow down.

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I scanned the playground for the boy’s parents but saw no one coming to his rescue. My instinct kicked in, and I rushed over, gently asking the little boy if he could point out his mom or dad. He didn’t respond, likely too young or too stunned, until a man sitting nearby on a bench, face glued to his phone, finally looked up and acknowledged that the child was his.

He collected his son but promptly put him back down, and as toddlers do, the boy made his way right back to the girls. I had to shift my attention to my child for a moment, and when I returned, the situation had escalated. Both the girl and the boy were now crying hysterically. Apparently, the girl had thrown sand at him again, this time with enough force to make him burst into tears. But what happened next floored me. The dad—frustrated and perhaps overwhelmed—grabbed a handful of sand and threw it back at the little girl.

Seeing an adult retaliate startled the girl, and she looked genuinely terrified. Before I could intervene, her mother stormed over, furious, and threatened to call the cops on the boy’s father. Drama, to say the least. I couldn’t help but wonder, where had she been during all of this? It’s easy to point fingers at the dad for reacting poorly, but when you leave others to parent your children, you don’t always get to choose their methods.

As I stood there, watching the aftermath of this bizarre showdown, I kept returning to one thing: the little girl’s initial intent to harm. The look in her eyes and how she sized up the situation before deciding no one was watching reminded me of something chillingly familiar. The Good Son came to mind, a film where a child’s capacity for malice takes center stage. At that moment, I saw the potential for cruelty that can exist, even in children, and it stayed with me long after the playground had emptied.

That day, the sandbox wasn’t just a place for kids to play—it became a microcosm of human behavior, where innocence and intention collided, leaving me with more questions than answers.

The Good Son (1993) is a psychological horror film where a seemingly innocent boy, played by Macaulay Culkin, hides a sinister side. Just like in the sandbox, sometimes the darkest intentions come from the most unexpected places.

Hi. Curious what I look like? Well, I am trying to do a video podcast for the first time. This might never happen again. I need positive encouragement. Also, I need to fix that eye-line when I read the teleprompter. (Oh - and if you’re listening on a podcast platform, you can watch on raisingcinephiles.com)

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So, this episode is inspired by the screening of Modern Times I hosted for American Cinematheque’s Friend of the Fest. It was such a fun matinee, and there were A LOT of kids in the audience, including my son. He could not sit still. I thought I made a grave mistake choosing this film. My podcast guests had led me astray.

Then, a week later, something AMAZING happened. We were playing, and he said I was being brought to jail. But it was a really nice jail. And I realized it was the jail Little Tramp enjoyed. It was better than living in the Great Depression. So he took in the story, even though he also wanted to watch his seat slam back into an upright position and make a loud, distracting noise. A good lesson is that just because he isn’t watching the way society deems respectable, it doesn’t mean he isn’t paying attention.

Watching the movie also brought back a flood of memories—it was like Proust’s Madeline. The memories consisted of scenes from films that have permeated culture through time, which is what I outline in this short episode. I hope you enjoy the watch!

(Oh - and if you’re listening on a podcast platform, you can watch on raisingcinephiles.com)

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In this special re-edit of the Thomas Ian Nicholas episode, we dive into his deep-rooted passion for cinema, which blossomed while he was making movies himself. Thomas reflects on his early movie memories, including the lasting impact of classics like Star Wars and The Shawshank Redemption.

He opens up about how he shares his love for film with his kids, navigating the challenges of selecting age-appropriate content and the joy of introducing his son to the magic of cinema. We also explore the importance of physicality in acting and the ongoing journey to bridge the gap between creative vision and execution. The conversation ends with a look at Mary Poppins and the timeless desire to create films that inspire adventure and a sense of wonder.

Here’s the video I mentioned, which reminds me to keep writing, and eventually, I’ll create something that matches my taste.

In this episode, Julie Cavaliere takes us on a journey through her first movie memory and her deep affection for classic cinema. As the conversation unfolds, Julie and Jessica tackle the complexities of managing screen time for children, emphasizing the need to curate quality content for young minds.

Julie opens up about her career path in the film industry, from studying film and TV production to her roles in development, acting, and writing. She also bravely shares her battle with postpartum anxiety, highlighting the crucial importance of mental health for parents. The discussion delves into the pressures of overstimulation and the importance of finding support as a mother.

Jessica and Julie bond over their children's quirky interests—whether it's trains or a particular love for the color yellow—and reflect on the significance of nurturing these unique traits. They explore how motherhood reshapes one's taste and perspective, sharing personal experiences from the postpartum period and the hurdles they overcame.

Before wrapping up, Julie recommends the timeless film 'Harvey,' while Jessica teases her upcoming presentation of 'Modern Times.' Despite a few technical hiccups at the end, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of cinema, motherhood, and mental health.

Tosca Musk, CEO of Passion Flix, discusses her love for romance novels and her passion for creating positive stories about love and relationships.

In this conversation, Tosca Musk and Jessica Kantor discuss their favorite movies and the influence of cinema on their lives. They talk about the films that have inspired them, such as To Kill a Mockingbird and Strictly Ballroom. They also share their love for filmmakers like Baz Luhrmann, Nora Ephron, and Nancy Meyers. The conversation touches on the importance of storytelling and the emotional impact of movies. They discuss the joy of introducing their children to cinema and their different tastes and preferences.

Tosca also talks about the process of adapting books into movies and the importance of choosing diverse stories to appeal to a wide audience. She explains that Passion Flix focuses on romance book adaptations as feature films and episodic series. The platform aims to remove shame from sexuality and explore intimate scenes in a way that drives the story and promotes open communication. Tosca also talks about the growth of Passion Flix's library and the importance of niche streaming platforms.

Passionflix's next big film release will be “The Air He Breathes” on August 22. Based on the book by Amazon #1 bestselling author Brittainy Cherry. It's about a woman who - still mourning her husband's death - moves home with her daughter and meets a neighbor rumored to have a dark past who is also drowning in grief.

When I think about movies that have shaped me over the years, a few come to me. I cannot tell you the order in which I saw them, but I saw most of the films in the same era of my life. It was when I lived in NYC in High School. It was a time when I was dealing with my parent’s divorce, a mother learning how to be a single mom, and me trying to discover my taste.

Luckily for me, we lived in Lincoln Center, and there were many multiplex and art house cinemas within walking distance. I also had a TV in my room. I found myself with lots of lonely afternoons, and I am pretty sure movies are what kept me from doing LSD in the sheep meadow with the hot boys from Collegiate or Dalton. I was too shy, so I’d retreat to my dark room and experience coming of age through characters other than myself. If you know me personally, that likely explains a lot.

The first film that comes to mind is BASQUIAT.

I’m pretty sure I watched that one in Lincoln Square since it came out in 1996, and I’m pretty sure I've seen it more than once in theaters. But I return to this film regularly as it so singularly helped me define my taste. It was like a nail in the gut, saying this turns you on and makes you feel alive. This was (in my memory) my first exposure to pop art, to NYC in the 80s, and to the convergence of art, film, fashion, and music. I mean, Bowie epically plays Warhol, and I am a lifelong Jeffrey Wright fan. The feeling inside was an aliveness that inspired me to create and experience. It made me want to experience this art and walk the streets where they walked, and there’s no other way to explain the desire, but I wanted to literally jump onto the screen and be part of that story world. Who would I be in that world? I have no idea, but I wanted the fashion, the thrill, and the drama. Even writing this excites me to watch it again and remember why I love contemporary art and design and how much it inspires me.

The next film is STEALING BEAUTY

This one is also from 1996, and I likely saw it in theaters. Someone on the podcast challenged my love of this movie. They pointed out that this male, middle-aged director told the story of a teen girl losing her virginity. That’s not how I saw the movie; it was about a teen trying to discover her identity, and her sexuality is a part of that. It’s an Italian film with an Italian director; the nudity in the film felt more cultural to me than inappropriate, but I didn’t look at it from that perspective when I was a teen. I just saw a girl who yearned to be seen by the men in her life - both the boy she was crushing on and her father. As a girl living away from her own father, who was too timid to show the boys she liked that she liked them, this film resonated with me deeply. I also just thought Liv Tyler was the coolest.

It wasn’t long after watching this film, maybe the next summer, that I had my own adventure to the south of France. The innocence that fuels confidence in a 15/16-year-old was something I inhibited in spades. This is a film I’m not sure I want to rewatch cause I want to preserve my memory of it. Is that weird? Maybe, but I do listen to the soundtrack. It brings me back to those good and bad feelings, yearning to be seen and stay invisible all at the same time.

The next one that really defined ‘cool’ for me was EMPIRE RECORDS.

This one is from 1995. I was just starting high school and had just moved to NYC. I had this chance to reinvent myself. The cast of characters at Empire Records had me walking up to Lincoln Square’s Tower Records - sadly no longer there -looking for my own similar crew. Unfortunately, I didn’t find it, so I kept returning to the movie. Both Liv Tyler and Robin Tuney’s characters resonated with me, and I wanted to work there even more. The convergence of passion for music, the group of friends, the very cute boys, and the damn the man sentiment. I can watch this one over and over.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention HACKERS.

This movie also gave me a ‘cool’ feel, and it’s also from 1995. It was the. first time I saw a woman/teen who was both nerdy and sexy. It gave me major aspiration vibes like it might actually be cool to be smart and like computers. I started reading Hacker Zines around this time and was proficient with technology, though I was not a coder. I rewatch this every few years and still find it to be thrilling and fun. The “Hack the Planet” sentiment always stays with me even as technology becomes obsolete.

At this time in my life, I felt quite alone, and these movies made me feel seen. They all had strong female characters and varying levels of challenging ideas, and these movies helped me process all of them.

Some movies that deserve honorable mentions:

• CLUELESS (1995)

• ROMEO + JULIET (1996)

• WELCOME TO THE DOLLHOUSE (1995)

• PARTY GIRL (1995)

In this episode, actress Esther Moon joins Jessica Kantor to talk about Esther's journey as an actress and the importance of pursuing a passion. They share their experiences of introducing their children to movies and the impact of cinema on their lives.

In this conversation, Esther Moon and Jessica Kantor discuss their experiences with introducing movies and traditions to their children. They talk about the challenges of finding kid-friendly movies in different cultures and the importance of exposing children to different languages and traditions. They also discuss the film JESA, in which Esther Moon stars, and the themes of holding onto traditions while also evolving.

They explore the balance between preserving cultural rituals and challenging oppressive gender roles. The conversation concludes with a discussion on fostering a love of cinema and storytelling in children.

It was an epic moment for me when American Cinematheque reached out and invited Raising Cinephiles to introduce a film for their Friend of the Festival at the end of August. I created a list of films I’d love to show my son in a movie theater, and together, we landed on MODERN TIMES - the Charlie Chaplin classic.

The idea first came to me from early conversations on the podcast, where a few guests recommended silent film-era movies for kids. Couper Samuelson mentioned taking his boys to Laurel and Hardy shorts at The Hammer Museum, which was a hit for them. After that, I brainstormed what to show my son and his friends on his second birthday, and Modern Times made the list. He loves gadgets and tools, and there’s nothing better than the clown-inspired acting of Charlie Chaplin.

Raising a child who truly loves cinema is more than expanding their attention span; rather, it means falling in love with telling stories via moving images. Losing oneself in a theater, being hypnotized by the light, and entering a movie's world and emotional life. Something that can happen at home but is more likely to happen in a packed movie theater.

Charlie Chaplin is not a perfect man, but what he’s done for cinema and Hollywood tells stories that are delivered in a light, fun fashion but comment on what was happening in the world at the time and ring true today. Works lost their jobs to machines, ahem, AI? Capitalism and poverty during the Great Depression which isn’t so different from today’s economic climate. This is genius to me, as our kids can sit and laugh while the film tugs on our hearts and intellects.

I hope you’ll join us on August 24th, when I’ll reiterate much of this as I introduce Modern Times to an audience full of kids (and their parents!).

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