Join Mike as he connects with filmmaker Paul Stephen Mann to explore the creative process behind turning classic Popeye elements into a cult horror masterpiece. In this episode, they dive deep into the challenges of public domain rights, trademark restrictions, and the art of gore filmmaking—all while envisioning a fun, terrifying Popeye horror film. Discover expert insights on crafting timeless films, pushing creative boundaries, and enjoying cult horror the right way. Tune in for a masterclass in innovative filmmaking!

Director Josh Ruben (Scare Me, Werewolves Within) returns to the show to talk about his first studio film, Heart Eyes—a bloody slasher-meets-romantic-comedy mashup with all the signature chaos of a Ruben film. Host Mike Pecci and Ruben dive deep into the process, from the high-stakes pitch to the pressures of post-production, revealing what it’s really like to direct your first big studio feature.