The Independent Film Corner: Jamey Duvall (Host of Movie Geeks United) Interview

This week on 10 Questions, I want to take this interview column in a different direction and explore the behind the scenes of things related to films here, as the film industry is not only for the filmmakers and the studio executives but for other things like film festivals, distribution, radio/online shows.

There are many film-related podcasts and shows out on the internet today like Filmspotting, Dread Central’s Dinner for Fiends, Horror Movie Fans Radio, and the Fused Film Podcast to name a few. But there is one show that I enjoy more than the shows I’ve just mentioned. The show is frequently listened from anywhere in the world and some of their recent shows (like most recently their show that focuses on “Chicago’s return to the Big Screen”) have made it on to IMDb's Hit List. Today on 10 Questions, I’m here to talk to Jamey Duvall, the host and creator of Movie Geek United, a popular movie talk show on Blog Talk Radio.

1) Tell me about yourself, for those who don't know you?

I’m a Florida boy, born and raised. I Still reside in Lakeland, FL, which is situated between Tampa and Orlando. I’ve been addicted to performing and the creative arts (singing, acting, stage, writing, etc) since an early age. I’ve won three Best Actor awards for my work in community theatre (it’s no Oscar, but it’ll do for now).


2) What films made you become a Movie Geek?

Around the age of twelve, I had a life changing experience when I saw ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” and I knew from there that movies would be my life-long passion. EVERY movie (good and bad) has solidified that passion, though I am particularly fond of the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre, 8 ½, M, Last Tango in Paris, Dog Day Afternoon, Taxi Driver, McCabe and Mrs. Miller, The Big Lebowski and Heat.


3) How did you come up with the idea for Movie Geeks United?

I was asked to be a guest on another blog talk radio program called The Dead Air Show. The hosts of this show steered my life in a new and exciting direction when they suggested I host my own program on the network.

4) How did FilmArcade.net's own Jerry Dennis become involved with the show?

Jerry was listening to The Dead Air Show that evening and called in. We shared a passionate exchange over ‘The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada’ and that was it. A connection was made and we were off. I rounded up my best friend Chris (who lives nearby) and the three of us started the journey together. Jerry never ceases to amaze me with his ever expanding knowledge and dedication to cinema.

5) How much time and preparation goes into each show?

I spend roughly five to six hours a day (including the mornings before I go to work, my lunch break, and after hours) sending interview requests, corresponding with publicists, organizing, outlining and writing show content, conducting research and creating sound files for the show. It is a lot of work, but completely exciting and rewarding creatively. We don't get paid to do the show (as of yet), and we all have days jobs, but we keep our fingers crossed that someone out there with deep pockets like what they hear!

6) I’ve noticed that you've had some big names on you show like Chris Carter, Brain Depalma and Jeff Goldblum. How did some of these big names to appear on your show for those ever wondering how?

I asked. I wish there was a more complex answer, but that’s essentially it. I think they agree to appear on our show because we think outside of the box with out content (unique tribute show subjects, etc) and conduct warm and intelligent interviews free of gossip.

7) You’ve guys have had some great interviews, like Adam Green, Brian Depalma, and Lizzy Caplin to name a few. What are some of your favorite interviews from past shows?

My recent interview with Judge Reinhold is a favorite. Another is our interview with character actor Raymond J. Barry. Character actors are terrific because they’ve been in every film, worked with every star, and their ego is totally in check. They’re approachable and infectious about what they do. I enjoy real detailed discussions and examinations on craft, so my all-time favorite show is probably our Paul Schrader tribute (and our interview with Mr. Schrader himself comes a close second). Director John Badham is also a great delight.

8) Are you surprised that this show has been this successful?

Yes. What truly surprises me, and what we owe everything to, are the fans who listen to us week in and week out. They are a tremendously warm and we are constantly awed and humbled by their dedicated listenership. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that there are true Movie Geeks all over the world who share your intense passion for the art form. Our listeners reside all over the world; from the U.S. to the U.K. and from Norway to Australia. They are a gift.

9) Now, I want to talk about the films that have been released this year. There have been some really good films and some really bad ones to come out this year. What are your favorites and worst films you've seen so far this year?

‘The Dark Knight’ is my favorite of the year, though that could change with a few of the upcoming fall films on the horizon. ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ was fairly horrid. I believe it would have worked if Spielberg would have been allowed to reign supreme on crafting the story. Every instinct George Lucas came to the table with bogged the film down and deprived it of its magic.

10) What films are you most looking forward to, for the rest of this year?

Tropic Thunder. Burn By Reading. Milk.

Those are my tops.

11) Tell my readers, where they can find the show and what future plans and guests do you have planned for Movie Geeks United?

You can find our show at www.blogtalkradio.com/moviegeeksunited. You can listen live on Sundays at 6pm ET and Wednesdays at 10pm ET or catch our show anytime on replay. One of the benefits of listening to the live show lies in our highly interactive movie geek chat room.

As for the future, who knows? We have a special Woody Allen tribute scheduled for August, and our 6-part Spielberg tribute continues with ‘E.T’ and ‘Empire of the Sun’. We’re looking to expand some of our content and take it in interesting directions; for example, one of our episodes can double as a master class in acting, where we gather and interview some of the most notable acting teachers in the country. This concept can also be applied to other disciplines.

I am always surprised by the guests we receive. One week we welcomed Dolph Lundgren to the show, and Phil Donahue the next! The only thing we can count on is that my obsession with getting an interview with Al Pacino (my idol) will remain.

Mr. Duvall, I would like to thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule for this interview and good luck with the continued success of your show “Movie Geeks United”.

To keep up with the latest happening on Movie Geeks United, you visit their official Myspace Page at http://www.myspace.com/moviegeeksunited, and please add them as a friend on myspace, while you’re at it.

In this next edition of 10 Questions, I have a interview with a director, whose film recently came out on DVD just this past Tuesday.

Until then, My name is Anthony Thurber and that’s 10 Questions.