LCJ Q&A Podcast

Guest: 'Animal Farm' Director Andy Serkis

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 03:01:00 -0400

He's played some of the most iconic characters in cinema — Gollum, Caesar and King Kong. Now he's the director of the animated feature adaptation of George Orwell's iconic "Animal Farm", in theaters May 1st. Emmy and BAFTA winner Andy Serkis joins me on this LCJ Q&A Podcast episode.

Guests: 'My Brother the Minotaur' creator Donal Morgan, EP Fionnuala Deane and producers John McDaid & Nora Twomey

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 03:01:00 -0400

"My Brother the Minotaur" is a new animated series premiering this Friday April 24th on AppleTV. Lorcan is a boy... who also happens to be a minotaur. His younger brother Charlie and their friends join him to learn more about his true self. Joining me are the creative team of Donal Morgan, Dog Ears' Fionnuala Deane & John McDaid, and Cartoon Saloon co-founder and Oscar nominee Nora Twomey.

Guest: 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85' Showrunner & EP Eric Robles

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:01:00 -0400

Emmy-winner Eric Robles, of Nickelodeon's Fanboy & Chum Chum, is the executive producer and showrunner of Netflix's new animated series spinoff of one of the streamer's most beloved programs. Stranger Things: Tales From '85 is set in between seasons two and three — during the winter of that year — with the kids from Hawkins, Indiana on some of their most thrilling and emotional adventures ever. It premieres Thursday April 23rd, with the first two episodes screening in select cinemas Saturday April 18th.

Guests: 'Ted' stars Giorgia Whigham, Max Burkholder, Scott Grimes and Alanna Ubach

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:19:55 -0500

Seth MacFarlane's "Ted" event series returns for Season 2 this Thursday March 5th on Peacock. The actors who play four Bennett family members join me to talk about the hilarious '90s-set hijinks, the impact of voice acting, and even some hopes for this year's Oscars. It's the delightful Giorgia Whigham (Blaire), Max Burkholder (John), Scott Grimes (Matty) and Alanna Ubach (Susan).

Guests: 'The Pout-Pout Fish' Director Ricard Cussó and Writer Elise Allen

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 03:01:00 -0500

The Pout-Pout Fish is a new animated feature in theaters nationwide on March 20th. Director Ricard Cussó and writer Elise Allen share insights on adapting Deborah Diesen's books, working with star Nick Offerman, creating the undersea environment and more.

Guest: 'Mr. Crocodile' Producer Aton Soumache

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:01:00 -0500

Aton Soumache is the producer of new family animated series "Mr. Crocodile", premiering Monday Feb. 23 at 10:30am on Nickelodeon. Soumache also discusses his producing work on animated features "A Magnificent Life" with Sylvain Chomet (Annie Awards nominated and in theaters Mar. 27), "The Little Prince" and "Little Nicholas: Happy As Can Be".

Guests: 'Phoebe & Jay' Creators Genie Deez and Thy Than

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 06:01:00 -0500

Genie Deez and Thy Than are the creators of the new PBS Kids series Phoebe & Jay, about twins who move-in to a new building with their dad and grandma. They learn so much, including from meaningful friendships with people of all ages. This animated family program premieres Monday February 2nd.

Guests: 'Hey A.J.!' Creators Martellus Bennett and Jeff 'Swampy' Marsh

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 09:01:00 -0500

Super Bowl champion Martellus Bennett (New England Patriots tight end) and Emmy-winning "Phineas and Ferb" co-creator Jeff 'Swampy' Marsh have teamed-up for the new animated family series "Hey A.J.!", adapted from Bennett's books. It's about a sweet girl, her dad, best friend, and bunny companion on adventures that blend imagination and reality. "Hey A.J.!" premieres Tue Jan. 13 on Disney Junior and Wed Jan. 14 on Disney+.

Guest: 'Charlie the Wonderdog' Director Shea Wageman

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 03:01:00 -0500

Shea Wageman, President and CEO of ICON Creative Studio, is also the director of new animated feature "Charlie the Wonderdog", which opens in theaters nationwide on Jan. 16. Wageman discusses the superhero comedy adventure, including working with star Owen Wilson, and even teases a "Charlie" sequel.

Guest: 'David' Directors Brent Dawes and Phil Cunningham

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:01:00 -0500

Angel Studios' "David" is an epic new animated feature in theaters Dec. 19 (with nationwide early access screenings on Dec. 14). Directors Brent Dawes and Phil Cunningham share how they adapted the text of The Bible to create a dramatic, musical adventure experience for the whole family.

Guest: 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Chrome Alone 2 — Lost in New Jersey' Director Kent Seki

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:01:00 -0500

Kent Seki, the cinematographer of 2023 animated feature "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem" (and its 2027 sequel), has directed the new holiday short "Chrome Alone 2 — Lost in New Jersey". Seki dives into the making of the short, which is Oscar qualified and will screen in theaters nationwide with "The SpongeBob Movie: Search For SquarePants" starting December 19th.

Guests: 'Wednesdays with Gramps' Co-Director Chris Copeland and Producer Shabrayia Cleaver

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 03:01:00 -0500

A new DreamWorks Animation short focuses on a teen who visits his grandpa and discovers a passion that will strengthen their relationship. It is Oscar qualified and vying for Best Animated Short Film consideration. Co-Director Chris Copeland and producer Shabrayia Cleaver share what makes them so proud about "Wednesdays with Gramps".

Guests: 'Two Ships' Director McKinley Benson, Co-Writer Mackenzie Benson and EP Jodi Benson

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 03:01:00 -0500

We've all heard the phrase, "two ships passing in the night". A new animated short, which is qualified for the Best Animated Short Film Oscar this year and is vying for consideration, takes that phrase and presents it in emotional ways. McKinley Benson, Mackenzie Benson and Disney Legend Jodi Benson (the voice of Ariel) join me to discuss "Two Ships"... and a little bit on "The Little Mermaid".

Guests: 'A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas' Writers & EPs Zac Moncrief and Jon Colton Barry

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 03:01:00 -0500

The iconic Chuck E. Cheese is getting the animated holiday special treatment. "A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas" premieres this Thursday Nov. 27 on Prime Video and YouTube. Annie winner Zac Moncrief and Emmy winner Jon Colton Barry join me for a chat about the look, the story, the songs, working with star Nathan Kress ("iCarly") and hopes for more adventures in the "CEC" animation space.

Guest: 'A Magnificent Life' Director Sylvain Chomet

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:01:00 -0500

Four-time Academy Award nominee and BAFTA and Caesar Awards winner Sylvain Chomet (director of "The Triplets of Belleville" and "The Illusionist") joins me to discuss his latest animated feature, "A Magnificent Life", about French playwright, poet and filmmaker Marcel Pagnol. It opens in select theaters for an awards-qualifying run this Friday Nov. 21 and will officially release in North America on Feb. 20, 2026.

Guest: 'A PAW Patrol Christmas' EP Laura Clunie

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:01:00 -0500

New one-hour holiday special "A PAW Patrol Christmas" premieres Friday Nov. 28 at 8pm on CBS. Executive Producer Laura Clunie, who also serves as Senior VP of Development, Current Series & Feature Film at Spin Master, shares highlights of this new adventure, plus more holiday treats for "PAW" fans, and a preview of next summer's theatrical "Dino Movie".

Guests: 'Prep & Landing: The Snowball Protocol' EPs Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:01:00 -0500

"Prep & Landing: The Snowball Protocol" is the third half-hour special in the beloved, Emmy-winning animated franchise. It premieres Thursday Nov. 27 at 7pm on Disney Channel, Friday Nov. 28 on Disney+, and Sunday Nov. 30 at 9pm on ABC. Executive Producers Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton discuss the lasting impact of "P&L", including this new adventure.

Guests: 'All Heart' Directors Michael Govier and Will McCormack

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:38:19 -0500

Academy Award winners Michael Govier and Will McCormack (of 2020's "If Anything Happens, I Love You") discuss their new animated Short "All Heart", which is vying for awards consideration this season. It's a drama about a father in mourning and his special connection to a young man.

Guest: 'Bat-Fam' EP and Showrunner Mike Roth

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 09:01:00 -0500

Following-up the success of feature film "Merry Little Batman" is the new series "Bat-Fam". 10 episodes of animated adventures of Bruce Wayne and his son Damian premiere Monday Nov. 10 on Prime Video. Executive Producer and Showrunner Mike Roth talks working with Luke Wilson, pleasing the Bat-Fans, and seeing Tim Burton and Michael Keaton's first collab in theaters.

Guest: 'Grand Prix of Europe' star Thomas Brodie-Sangster

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:01:00 -0500

Thomas Brodie-Sangster (Emmy-nominated for "The Queen's Gambit" and star of "Love Actually" and "The Maze Runner" franchise) lends his voice to racecar driver mouse Ed in the new Viva Kids animated feature "Grand Prix of Europe", which opens in theaters this Friday Nov. 7.

Guest: 'Stitch Head' Director Steve Hudson

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Steve Hudson has directed the new animated feature "Stitch Head", based on the book series, which opens in theaters on Wednesday Oct. 29. He discusses the visuals, working with star Asa Butterfield, and the film's classic inspirations.

Guests: 'The Twits' stars Margo Martindale and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Three-time Emmy-winner Margo Martindale ("Justified", "The Americans") and Independent Spirit Awards nominee Maitreyi Ramakrishnan ("Never Have I Ever", "Freakier Friday") discuss their voice roles in "The Twits". The new CG animated feature adaptation of Roald Dahl's iconic book debuts this Friday Oct. 17 on Netflix.

Guest: 'The Chosen Adventures' Showrunner Ryan Swanson

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

"The Chosen Adventures" is a new animated family series installment in popular "The Chosen" franchise. It premieres this Friday Oct. 17 on Prime Video. Showrunner Ryan Swanson discusses the meaning and emotion behind the program, which features the voices of Jonathan Roumie, Paul Walter Hauser and Yvonne Orji.

Guest: 'Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Deathwatch' Showrunner Derek Kolstad

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Derek Kolstad, the creator of "John Wick", is now the showrunner of animated action series "Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Deathwatch". The video game adaptation premieres this Tuesday Oct. 14 on Netflix. Kolstad shares many cinematic inspirations for the show, insights on working with star Liev Schreiber, and reflections on the success of the "JW" franchise.

Guests: 'The Sisters Grimm' Showrunner Amy Higgins and EP Michael Buckley

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:01:00 -0400

Ready for a fairy tales twist? "The Sisters Grimm" showrunner Amy Higgins and fellow EP Michael Buckley (who also wrote the books) discuss their new AppleTV+ animated series, which premieres Friday October 3rd.

Guest: 'Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie' Director Ryan Crego

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

A popular DreamWorks Animation series is coming to the big screen. Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie opens in theaters nationwide this Friday September 26th. Director Ryan Crego shares highlights of making the charming and ambitious live-action/CG feature, which is one of the fall movie season's major family events.

Guest: 'Haunted Hotel' Creator Matt Roller

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Creator Matt Roller welcomes you to "Haunted Hotel", starring Will Forte and executive produced by Dan Harmon. The adult animated series that makes the most of ghosts (with laughs and scares) premieres Friday September 19th on Netflix.

Guest: 'Dr. Seuss's Red Fish Blue Fish', 'Horton!' and 'The Sneetches' EP Dustin Ferrer

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Dr. Seuss: an iconic author and iconic brand when it comes to film and television. Three new animated programs are coming to Netflix this fall — Red Fish Blue Fish (Sept. 8), Horton! (Oct. 6) and The Sneetches (Nov. 3). Two-time Emmy winning executive producer Dustin Ferrer (Peg+Cat) discusses all of them.

Guest: 'Weather Hunters' EP Dete Meserve

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:01:00 -0400

Dete Meserve is the executive producer of highly anticipated new PBS Kids animated series "Weather Hunters", starring Al Roker. It premieres this Monday September 8th. Meserve and I discuss the show — and the lasting impact of the 2012 Richard Linklater film "Bernie", which she produced. The forecast is: Fun!

Guests: 'Light of the World' Directors John J. Schafer and Tom Bancroft

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Directors John J. Schafer and Tom Bancroft present the new hand-drawn animated feature Light of the World, which opens in theaters on September 5th (John's birthday). They hope audiences, especially families, respond well to their portrayal of the story of Christ, successfully made outside the major studio system.

Guests: 'Shape Island' Creators Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 09:01:00 -0400

Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen are the creators and EPs of "Shape Island", the Emmy-winning and Annie Awards nominated stop-motion animation family comedy series. It returns for Season 2 this Friday Aug. 29 on AppleTV+.

Guests: 'Fixed' stars Adam Devine, Beck Bennett and River Gallo

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Director Genndy Tartakovsky's longtime passion project, the raunchy R-rated, Sony Pictures Animation comedy "Fixed", is finally here. You can check it out now on Netflix. But first... here's a fun new conversation with three of its voice actors — Adam Devine, Beck Bennett and River Gallo.

Guests: 'Marvel's Iron Man and His Awesome Friends' Showrunner Sean Coyle and Co-EP / Story Editor James Eason-Garcia

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:01:00 -0400

Sean Coyle and James Eason-Garcia discuss the characters, visuals and inspirations of new animated series "Marvel's Iron Man and His Awesome Friends", premiering Monday August 11th on Disney Jr. and Tuesday August 12th on Disney+.

Guest: 'Sketch' Director Seth Worley

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Seth Worley is the director of the new adventure dramedy "Sketch", in theaters nationwide on Wednesday August 6th. Worley discusses the origins of the story, working with star Tony Hale, and the film's unique animated characters.

Guest: 'Tim Rex in Space' Series Director Sam Dransfield

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Join me and Sam Dransfield for a 'Dinogalactic' conversation as we discuss his new Nickelodeon animated family series "Tim Rex in Space", premiering Monday Aug. 4.

Guests: 'The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball' EPs Ben Bocquelet, Erik Fountain and Matt Layzell

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Get ready for the start of 40 new wild adventures on "The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball", from executive producers Ben Bocquelet, Erik Fountain and Matt Layzell. It premieres next Monday July 28th on Hulu.

Guest: 'Smurfs' Director Chris Miller

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:56:27 -0400

Academy Award nominee Chris Miller appeared on Episode #2 of The LCJ Q&A Podcast in 2011 for the release of his DreamWorks feature Puss in Boots. He returns to the animation director's chair for Paramount's Smurfs, which is now playing in theaters nationwide. Just a few hours after I saw the film, we reconnected for a conversation about how working on this adventure 'blue' him away.

Guest: 'The Fixer' star Marcus Lemonis

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:56:27 -0400

For many years he was "The Profit" on CNBC. Now Marcus Lemonis headlines the new reality series "The Fixer", premiering Friday July 18th at 8pm on FOX and next day on Hulu. Lemonis discusses both programs, along with some game shows he's been a part of, and what goes into making great television.

Guests: 'Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+' EP Rob LaDuca and Co-Producer / Story Editor Kim Duran

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:35:00 -0400

The door is back open! New series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ premieres next Monday July 21st on Disney Jr. and Tuesday July 22nd on Disney+. Emmy-winning executive producer Rob LaDuca and co-producer and story editor Kim Duran share insights on additions to this iconic location and crafting adventures for a new generation of fans.

Guests: 'KPop Demon Hunters' Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans are the directors of Sony Pictures Animation's "KPop Demon Hunters". Learn all about the energetic action and music filled feature, which premieres this Friday June 20th on Netflix.

Guest: 'Into the Wonderwoods' Co-Director Vincent Paronnaud

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Academy Award nominee Vincent Paronnaud is the co-director of the charming new animated feature "Into the Wonderwoods", available on VOD and Digital starting Tuesday June 24th. It's about a 10-year-old boy named Angelo who has quite the adventure. Paronnaud shares what's at the heart of this story and reflects on making 2007's "Persepolis".

Guests: 'Wylde Pak' Creators Paul Watling & Kyle Marshall and EP Seonna Hong

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Nickelodeon is premiering a new animated adventure comedy this Friday June 6th at 7:30pm. It's Wylde Pak. Creators Paul Watling and Kyle Marshall and executive producer Seonna Hong share how this summer series about half-siblings Jack and Lily will delight families.

Guests: The Creators and Cast of 'Phineas and Ferb'

Wed, 28 May 2025 09:01:00 -0400

The highly anticipated new season of 'Phineas and Ferb' premieres Thursday June 5 on Disney Channel and Friday June 6 on Disney+. Here to talk all about it are creators Dan Povenmire and Jeff 'Swampy' Marsh, as well as cast members Ashley Tisdale, Caroline Rhea, Vincent Martella, David Errigo Jr. and Alyson Stoner.

Guests: 'Lulu Is A Rhinoceros' Creators Jason and Allison Flom

Fri, 23 May 2025 03:01:00 -0400

"Lulu Is A Rhinoceros" is a new AppleTV+ animated special premiering Friday May 30th. It's about Lulu (voiced by "Moana"'s Auli'i Cravalho) — a dog who sees herself as a rhinoceros and wants to share kindness and the value of self-worth with others in her community. This is adapted from a 2018 book by father-daughter duo Jason and Allison Flom, who are creators and EPs on the special. Allison also serves as head writer and lyricist for the songs.

Guest: 'Love, Death + Robots' '400 Boys' Director Robert Valley

Mon, 12 May 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Robert Valley is an Academy Award nominee for short "Pear Cider and Cigarettes", an Annie winner for the "Tron: Uprising" animated series and an Emmy winner for his work on popular program "Love, Death + Robots". He returns to "LD+R" with a new short for Vol. 4 called "400 Boys". It stars John Boyega and premieres this Thursday May 15th on Netflix.

Summer 2025 Movie Preview with Jason Black

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Oklahoma City's KJ103 film critic and Critics Choice Association member Jason Black returns to The LCJ Q&A for another Summer Movie Preview. This time we dive into what May, June, July and August 2025 have in store in theaters and on streaming — the blockbusters, the indies, the wild cards and our most anticipated releases!

Guests: 'Acoustic Rooster and His Barnyard Band' Creator Kwame Alexander and EP Julius Harper

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Acoustic Rooster and His Barnyard Band is a new one-hour, jazz-infused special premiering Thursday May 1st on PBS Kids. Creator Kwame Alexander adapts from his 2011 book. Julius Harper serves as executive producer. It’s the story of a young rooster who wants to join jazz animal greats in making fantastic music. This special, and 20 accompanying shorts available on PBS Kids platforms, will show kids the power of collaboration and creating a beautiful tune.

Guests: 'Super Duper Bunny League' Creators Jonny Belt and Robert Scull

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Animated action comedy family series Super Duper Bunny League premieres this Saturday April 19th at 9:30am on Nickelodeon. Creators and EPs Johnny Belt and Robert Scull share insights on bringing to life the adventures of heroic, funny bunnies.

Guests: 'Sneaks' stars Keith David and Rico Rodriguez

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Three-time Emmy winning voice acting icon Keith David and four-time Modern Family SAG Awards winner Rico Rodriguez star in Sneaks. It opens in theaters this Friday April 18th. The animated comedy adventure is about new sneakers won by teen basketball player Edson. The pair is quickly stolen from him — and gets separated. The quest to be reunited in time for a big game is on! David voices "O.G.", and Rodriguez lends his talents to "Ice".

Guest: 'RoboForce: The Animated Series' Creator Brian Volk-Weiss

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Four-time Best Comedy Album Grammy-winning executive producer Brian Volk-Weiss (of The Nacelle Company) is now the creator and director of RoboForce: The Animated Series, which is taking '80s character toys that didn't get their proper due and giving them a new shot at entertainment stardom. The show premieres this Saturday April 12th on Tubi.

Guests: 'Iyanu' makers Brandon Easton, Kerri Grant, Vincent Edwards and Paula Gammon Wilson

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

"Iyanu", based on a graphic novel series, is a new animated series premiering this Saturday April 5th at 9am on Cartoon Network, and Sunday April 6th on Max. It's about a special girl who discovers divine powers. Joining me for a quick but deep dive into the show are series writers Kerri Grant and Brandon Easton, supervising director Vincent Edwards and voice director Paula Gammon Wilson.

Guests: 'The Luckiest Man in America' star Paul Walter Hauser and director Samir Oliveros

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Emmy-winner Paul Walter Hauser plays iconic "Press Your Luck" contestant Michael Larson in the new dramatic thriller "The Luckiest Man in America", which opens in theaters this Friday April 4th. Hauser and director Samir Oliveros join me for in-depth conversations about bringing this legendary game show story to the screen.

Guest: 'RoboGobo' Creator Chris Gilligan

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Disney Junior animated series "RoboGobo" — about the rescue pets who rescue pets — makes its Disney+ debut on Tuesday April 1st. Creator and EP Chris Gilligan shares what makes this show so special, along with stories about working on two timeless stop-motion features.

Guest: 'BE@RBRICK' Showrunner Meghan McCarthy

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 03:01:00 -0400

New DreamWorks animated series "BE@RBRICK", based on Medicom Toy's figures, premieres this Friday March 21st on AppleTV+. Showrunner, EP and writer Meghan McCarthy joins me to talk about the show's vision, themes, music and spirit.

B95.5 — 2025 Oscars Predictions

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:36:16 -0500

I join host Jim Cerqua live on B95.5 (WYJB-FM) for 2025 Oscars predictions and analysis in some of the major categories, plus reflections on the careers of the late Gene Hackman and Michelle Trachtenberg.

Guests: 'Plankton: The Movie' director Dave Needham and stars Mr. Lawrence and Jill Talley

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

New "SpongeBob" spinoff feature film "Plankton: The Movie" debuts March 7th on Netflix. Director Dave Needham ("The Loud House Movie") and stars Mr. Lawrence (Plankton) and Jill Talley (the voice of Karen) join me for a deep dive into the latest Bikini Bottom adventure.

Guest: 'A Sloth Story' Director Tania Vincent

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

"A Sloth Story" is a new animated comedy adventure about sloths who move to the big city and hope their treasured family recipes make their food truck a major success. It opens in theaters this Friday Feb. 28. Director Tania Vincent shares the many wonderful ingredients that went into creating this grounded and fun film.

Guests: 'Family Guy' Showrunners & EPs Rich Appel and Alec Sulkin

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

New episodes of FOX Animation Domination icon "Family Guy" air Sundays at 8pm through March 23rd. It moves to 8:30pm on March 30th. Three-time Emmy winner Rich Appel and three-time Emmy nominee Alec Sulkin are the showrunners and executive producers, who work closely with creator and star Seth MacFarlane on continuing to deliver quality comedy over a quarter century after the series premiered. But what about a movie? We discuss that and much more.

Guests: 'Night of the Zoopocalypse' Directors Rodrigo Perez-Castro and Ricardo Curtis

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

Viva Kids' new animated feature "Night of the Zoopocalypse", from an idea by Clive Barker and starring the voice of David Harbour, opens in theaters nationwide on Mar. 7. Directors Rodrigo Perez-Castro and Ricardo Curtis, who previously collaborated on several Blue Sky Studios films, share what went into this comedy thriller for families.

Guest: 'Goldie' Creator Emily Brundige

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

Emily Brundige is the Emmy and Annie nominated creator of the new animated family series "Goldie", adapted from her 2019 short. It premieres Friday Feb. 14 on AppleTV+. Brundige shares the inspiration for her show, along with the impact of also working on "Hilda" and "Over the Garden Wall".

Guest: 'Paddington in Peru' Director Dougal Wilson

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

"Paddington in Peru", the third installment in the popular family film franchise, opens in North America on February 14th. Dougal Wilson makes his feature film directorial debut and describes what went into this major, complex production.

Guest: 'Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man' Creator Jeff Trammell

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 11:33:04 -0500

Jeff Trammell, Emmy and Annie nominated writer on Craig of the Creek, is the creator (as well as EP and writer) of the new Marvel animated series Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. The first two episodes are now available on Disney+. The remaining eight episodes debut over the next three Wednesdays. Trammell shares insights on the show’s story, look, characters and cast, including one of this year’s Oscar nominees, Colman Domingo.

Guest: 'Dog Man' Director Peter Hastings

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 14:21:20 -0500

Peter Hastings is a six-time Emmy-winner who’s worked on the DreamWorks Animation Television Epic Tales of Captain Underpants and various Kung Fu Panda spin-offs. Now he’s the director of the studio’s new theatrical Dog Man movie, in theaters this Friday January 31st. Adapted from author Dav Pilkey’s popular books, this is an action and comedy packed adventure about a part-man, part-dog cop who faces-off against a crime-loving cat, with the TV news cameras constantly rolling.

Guests: 'Endless Cookie' Directors Seth and Peter Scriver

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:01:00 -0500

Seth and Peter Scriver are half-brothers and the directors and subjects of the new animated documentary film "Endless Cookie", which premieres in-person Saturday January 25th at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and is available through the online platform during the fest. Seth, who is white, and Peter, who is mixed race (Indigenous and white), share this one-of-a-kind presentation of conversations and stories about their lives and their family in Canada. Cookie Scriver (prominently featured in the doc) makes a special appearance during this LCJ Q&A episode. "Endless Cookie", which took nine years to make, is seeking distribution at Sundance.

Guests: 'StuGo' Creator & EP Ryan Gillis and Co-EP Sunil Hall

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 09:01:00 -0500

A group of student government middle schoolers are on a one-of-a-kind island for the summer. New animated series StuGo premieres this Saturday Jan. 11 at 8pm on Disney Channel. Creator and EP Ryan Gillis and Co-EP Sunil Hall ring in the New Year with this adventurous show.

2024 Movie Highs and Lows with Jeffrey K. Howard

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 11:06:30 -0500

Jeffrey K. Howard, the two-time Emmy-winning "Vegas Film Critic", joins me to discuss 2024 at the movies — our favorite and least favorite films and performances, big surprises and disappointments, early awards season predictions and more!

Guest: 'Dream Productions' Composer Nami Melumad

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 03:01:00 -0500

Hot-off the success of Inside Out 2 (the biggest movie of 2024) comes a new show set in-between Pixar's two films about Riley and her emotions. Dream Productions explores the operations of the movie studio in Riley's mind that makes her cinematic dreams. The four-episode event series is available starting today on Disney+. Composer Nami Melumad shares what went into creating the plethora of music that celebrates so many genres.

Guests: 'Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl' Directors Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 03:01:00 -0500

Wallace & Gromit are back in an outstanding new adventure. Directors Nick Park (four-time Oscar winner) and Merlin Crossingham (Annie winner) present "Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl". It opens in select theaters Dec. 18 and debuts on Netflix Jan. 3. Park and Crossingham dive into what makes Aardman's latest W&G stop-motion action comedy fun and heartwarming, especially for longtime fans of these beloved characters.

Guests: 'Mickey and the Very Many Christmases' Writers Tom Rogers and Rachel Ruderman

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 03:01:00 -0500

New CG half-hour special "Mickey and the Very Many Christmases", from writers Tom Rogers and Rachel Ruderman ("The Chicken Squad"), puts a Mouse House holiday spin on a classic comedy movie. It premieres this Sunday Dec. 1 at 7pm on Disney Jr. and begins streaming Monday Dec. 2 on Disney+.

Guest: 'That Christmas' Director Simon Otto

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 03:01:00 -0500

"How to Train Your Dragon" trilogy head of character animation Simon Otto makes his animated feature directorial debut with the comedy adventure "That Christmas". It debuts Wednesday Dec. 4 on Netflix. Otto returns to The LCJ Q&A to discuss adapting Richard Curtis' books, working with Brian Cox and crafting a unique holiday family film.

Guest: 'Flow' Director Gints Zilbalodis

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 03:01:00 -0500

Five years after he made an animated feature by himself ("Away"), director Gints Zilbalodis is back with a new animated movie — "Flow". It's about a cat on the journey of a lifetime... or maybe nine. "Flow" opens in select theaters this Friday Nov. 22. Zilbalodis shares how he explored animals, nature, weather and the earth in cool and visually breathtaking ways.

Guest: 'Creature Commandos' EP & Showrunner Dean Lorey

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:01:00 -0500

On the new DC animated series "Creature Commandos", it's a unique task force — incarcerated monsters — on wild missions and adventures. Emmy nominated executive producer and showrunner Dean Lorey ("Arrested Development", "Big Shot") joins me to talk about the comedy and action-packed "CC" (premiering Thursday Dec. 5 on Max).

Guest: 'An Almost Christmas Story' Director David Lowery

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 00:01:00 -0500

David Lowery is the director of the new animated holiday short film "An Almost Christmas Story", which premieres this Friday Nov. 15 on Disney+. It's about an owl named Moon who forms a unique friendship with a girl named Luna in The Big Apple. Lowery shares what the holidays and holiday movies mean to him, along with stories about collaborating with John C. Reilly and Alfonso Cuaron, making "Pete's Dragon" and "A Ghost Story" and more.

Guests: 'Carl the Collector' Creator Zachariah OHora and Director Lisa Whittick

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 03:01:00 -0500

The new PBS Kids animated series "Carl the Collector" (premiering Thursday November 14th) is about a kid raccoon who has autism. He loves collecting things and sharing his enthusiasm for collections and activities with his friends and family. "CTC" is created by Zachariah OHora (of the Fuzzytown book universe). Lisa Whittick is the show's director.

Guest: 'The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie' Director Peter Browngardt

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 14:56:46 -0400

Long-awaited, fully animated The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie will receive an awards-qualifying run before the end of 2024, ahead of its official theatrical release on February 28th, 2025. I’ve screened the film and spoke with director Peter Browngardt about this sci-fi action comedy starring beloved characters who are true to themselves and presented in ways you’ve never seen before.

Guest: 'Memoir of a Snail' Director Adam Elliot

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Adam Elliot won the Best Animated Short Film Academy Award 20 years ago for "Harvie Krumpet". He followed that up with acclaimed stop-motion feature "Mary & Max". His latest claymation movie is "Memoir of a Snail", which opens in theaters on Oct. 25.

Guests: 'HITPIG!' Directors David Feiss and Cinzia Angelini

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

David Feiss and Cinzia Angelini are the directors of the new animated action comedy "HITPIG!", starring Jason Sudeikis and Lilly Singh, which opens in theaters nationwide on November 1st.

Guests: 'Max & the Midknights' Co-EPs Sharon Flynn and David Skelly

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Nickelodeon's new animated comedy Max & the Midknights (premiering Wednesday October 30th at 7pm) is adapted from Big Nate author Lincoln Peirce's popular book about a girl in medieval times who yearns to become a knight. Co-Executive Producers Sharon Flynn and David Skelly discuss the show's unique tone, visual perspectives and inspirations.

Guests: 'Kensuke's Kingdom' Directors Neil Boyle and Kirk Hendry

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

A new hand-drawn animated feature film adaptation of the classic novel "Kensuke's Kingdom" opens in theaters on Oct. 18. Directors Neil Boyle and Kirk Hendry take me on an adventure, describing what went into the story, music, visual design and much more. Plus, find out what Oscar winner Cillian Murphy did to enhance his vocal performance.

Guests: 'Mighty Monsterwheelies' Showrunner Stephanie Simpson and Story Editor Kyel White

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

DreamWorks "Mighty Monsterwheelies" morphs classic movie monsters and monster trucks, creating a fun group of characters and episodes for families as we approach Halloween. It premieres Monday October 14th on Netflix. Kyel White developed the series and serves as story editor. Stephanie Simpson is the four-time Emmy-winning executive producer and showrunner.

Guest: ‘Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft’ Showrunner Tasha Huo

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Lara Croft has been played by Oscar winners Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander in movies. She's also an iconic video game heroine. Now she's the focus of a new hand-drawn animated series, with the voice of Hayley Atwell, in "Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft". It premieres this Thursday October 10th on Netflix. Showrunner, writer and EP Tasha Huo joins me on this episode of The LCJ Q&A Podcast.

Guests: ‘The Wild Robot’ Director Chris Sanders and Producer Jeff Hermann

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 16:32:49 -0400

DreamWorks Animation celebrates its 30th Anniversary with the release of "The Wild Robot" (now in theaters). Director Chris Sanders (of "How to Train Your Dragon" and "The Croods") and producer Jeff Hermann ("The Boss Baby: Family Business") share details on how they brought specific scenes to life and what this movie has meant to them and audiences around the world.

Guests: ‘Gremlins: The Wild Batch' EP & Showrunner Tze Chun and EP Brendan Hay

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 14:45:15 -0400

Max's Gremlins animated series had a successful season one with Secrets of the Mogwai. Season two, Gremlins: The Wild Batch, premieres Thursday October 3rd. Executive Producer and showrunner Tze Chun and fellow EP Brendan Hay preview what fans, including those who love the iconic movies, can look forward to from this fun group of characters and some exciting new ones.

Guest: ‘The Simpsons’ Co-Showrunner Matt Selman

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:01:29 -0400

Annie and seven-time Emmy-winning "The Simpsons" co-showrunner, executive producer and writer Matt Selman joins me on this special 350th Episode of The LCJ Q&A Podcast. He shares as much as he can about Season 36 (which starts this Sunday Sept. 29 at 8pm on FOX) and the first-ever "Simpsons" panel presentation at New York Comic Con (Saturday Oct. 19 at 11:30am on the Main Stage).

Guests: ‘Twilight of the Gods' Creator, Director & EP Zack Snyder and EPs Deborah Snyder & Wesley Coller

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:15:58 -0400

Zack Snyder, director of "300", "Man of Steel" and 2010 animated feature "Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole", is the creator and executive producer of new adult animated action series "Twilight of the Gods", now streaming on Netflix. He joins fellow EPs Deborah Snyder and Wesley Coller on this LCJ Q&A Podcast episode to talk about the show and the power of animation.

Guest: ‘Benny vs. the Penny’ Co-Host Tomm Looney

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Longtime friend Tomm Looney, co-host of "Benny vs. the Penny" (airing weekends on Peacock and NBC Sports channels nationwide), joins me to talk about Season 2 of the unique sports betting series. We also chat about Looney's childhood and career, Taylor & Travis, current movies, "The Simpsons" and more.

Guests: ‘Universal Basic Guys’ Creators Adam and Craig Malamut

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Adam and Craig Malamut's new animated comedy series "Universal Basic Guys" joins the iconic FOX Animation Domination lineup on Sunday Sept. 8 at 8pmET / 5pmPT (live to all timezones after an NFL doubleheader). They discuss the fun characters, storylines and South Jersey inspirations and what shows like "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy" have meant to them.

Guest: ‘Kindergarten: The Musical’ EP and Supervising Director Tom Warburton

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Two-time Emmy nominee Tom Warburton ("Muppet Babies") is the executive producer and supervising director of the new family animated series "Kindergarten: The Musical". It premieres Tue Sept. 3 on Disney Junior and Wed Sept. 4 on Disney+. Warburton discusses crafting a high-spirited and authentic musical presentation of the kindergarten experience.

Guest: ‘200% Wolf’ Director Alexs Stadermann

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 03:01:00 -0400

There's a new sequel to 2020 hit 100% Wolf opening in theaters nationwide on August 23rd. 200% Wolf is double the energy and double the fun for families, with main character Freddy on another life-changing adventure. Director Alexs Stadermann discusses his return to this universe, creating memorable characters, and how A.I. is impacting the animation industry.

Guests: ‘Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ Co-Showrunners Chris Yost and Alan Wan

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 09:01:00 -0400

New animated series "Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles", starring the voice actors from last summer's hit movie "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem", premieres Friday August 9th on Paramount+. Co-Showrunners Chris Yost and Alan Wan share insights on this fresh chapter in the 'heroes in a half shell' saga.

Guests: ‘Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie’ EPs Vincent Waller and Marc Ceccarelli

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Sandy and SpongeBob head to Texas in the live-action/CG feature "Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie". It premieres Friday August 2nd on Netflix. Executive Producers Vincent Waller and Marc Ceccarelli celebrate 25 years of SpongeBob with a deep dive into the beloved characters and the wild new film.

Guest: ‘Harold and the Purple Crayon’ Director Carlos Saldanha

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:01:00 -0400

At Blue Sky Studios, Carlos Saldanha directed "Ice Age" and "Rio" installments, as well as "Ferdinand", which earned him a Best Animated Feature Oscar nomination. Now Saldanha is the director of a new live-action family film featuring some hand-drawn and CG animation. "Harold and the Purple Crayon", adapted from the beloved book, opens in theaters on Aug. 2.

Guest: ‘Primos’ Creator Natasha Kline

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:01:00 -0400

Natasha Kline is the creator of the new Disney animated series "Primos", which is inspired by her childhood growing up in Los Angeles. Tater, who's about to turn 10, has a memorable summer at home with her 12 cousins. "Primos" premieres this Thursday July 25th at 8pm on Disney Channel and this Friday July 26th on Disney+.

Guests: ‘Exploding Kittens’ Showrunners and Creators Matthew Inman and Shane Kosakowski

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 00:29:14 -0400

Phenomenon card game Exploding Kittens is now an adult animated comedy series, premiering this Friday July 12th on Netflix. Find out how a cat exorcism and Bruce Willis movies have inspired showrunners and creators Matthew Inman (who also co-created the game) and Shane Kosakowski.

Guests: ‘Sausage Party: Foodtopia’ Co-Creators Ariel Shaffir and Kyle Hunter

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Ariel Shaffir and Kyle Hunter co-wrote 2016's hit adult animated comedy Sausage Party. They're now the co-creators, showrunners and EPs of new follow-up series Sausage Party: Foodtopia, premiering Thursday July 11th on Prime Video.

Guests: ‘Disney Jr.'s Ariel’ EP Lynne Southerland and Art Director Chrystin Garland

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 03:01:00 -0400

It's been 35 years since Disney released the game-changing The Little Mermaid. Disney Jr.'s Ariel, premiering June 27th on Disney Jr. and June 28th on Disney+, is a new CG family music series that spotlights the title character's youth 'under the sea'. Executive Producer Lynne Southerland and Art Director Chrystin Garland share why they enjoy being part of this world.

Guest: ‘WondLa’ EP & Showrunner Bobs Gannaway

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:03:50 -0400

AppleTV+ and showrunner/EP Bobs Gannaway (of Monsters at Work) have adapted author Tony DiTerlizzi’s popular books for the new animated adventure series WondLa, premiering Friday June 28th. Gannaway previews the exciting first season and more!

Guests: ‘Ultraman: Rising’ director Shannon Tindle and co-director John Aoshima

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 10:49:03 -0400

Animated action dramedy feature Ultraman: Rising is going to be one of the biggest at-home hits of the summer. You can watch it starting next Friday June 14th on Netflix. Emmy-winning director Shannon Tindle (of Lost Ollie and Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends) and Emmy & Annie-nominated co-director John Aoshima (of DuckTales and Gravity Falls) suit up to tell me about their influences for this epic film.

Guests: ‘Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation’ EPs Chris and Shane Houghton

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 09:23:53 -0400

Chris and Shane Houghton celebrate six years of Big City Greens success for The Mouse House with a new feature-length film. Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation premieres this Thursday June 6th at 8pm on Disney Channel and is available on Disney+ starting this Friday June 7th. The Houghtons return to The LCJ Q&A Podcast to discuss how they landed on this story and the giant leap from 11 minutes to 80.

Guest: ‘Robot Dreams’ Director Pablo Berger

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:15:14 -0400

Pablo Berger won an Annie Award and was nominated for an Oscar this past awards season for his incredible feature Robot Dreams. NEON just kicked-off the film's official North American theatrical release in New York City, and it will continue to expand to more cities across the nation throughout the summer. Berger shares what Robot Dreams has meant to him and audiences around the world.