The Shameless Plug: 10 Things I Love About You
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In this special episode of The Empire Film Podcast, host James Dyer steps in for Chris Assembly during his cruise and presents a personal 'Shameless 10' list of standout features from the latest issue of Empire Magazine (Issue 453). The episode kicks off with a deep dive into the cover story on Steven Spielberg, featuring an exclusive interview with Ian Freer and a candid Zoom chat where Spielberg reveals his love for Dune Part 1 and Part 2—calling them his favorite sci-fi films. The secrecy around Spielberg’s upcoming film, Disclosure Day, is highlighted, with James sharing thrilling anecdotes from past secret shoots and the magazine’s meticulous handling of spoilers. Other highlights include a bizarre 4DX experience with the necrophiliac rom-com Dead Lover, a tribute to James Ortiz’s iconic puppetry of Rocky in Project Hail Mary, and a fascinating interview with Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson, who reveals he didn’t know his band was featured in The Bone Temple until after the film’s release. The episode also celebrates Jet Li’s philosophical memoir, a heartfelt feature on David Lowery’s Mother Mary, and a playful deep-dive into Ben Wheatley’s gloriously eccentric 'Special Thanks' section in Bulk. James ends with a self-aware nod to his own 'Bates Noir' rage over film tie-in book covers, while teasing additional content like Toy Story 5, Beef Season 2, and a Robert Duvall ranking. The episode is a love letter to cinema’s behind-the-scenes magic, secrecy, and eccentricity.
Steven Spielberg’s new film Disclosure Day is shrouded in secrecy, with only cryptic details revealed—aliens communicating through weather forecasts—and Spielberg himself calling Dune Part 1 and 2 his favorite sci-fi films.
Empire Magazine’s 'Special Thanks' section in Ben Wheatley’s Bulk is a hand-drawn, wildly personal list of gratitude—including restaurants, London’s Elizabeth line, and even David Lynch.
James Ortiz’s puppet performance as Rocky in Project Hail Mary has become a cultural phenomenon, earning him a spot as the month’s MVP in Empire’s 'The MVP' feature.
Bruce Dickinson, Iron Maiden frontman, was unaware his band’s music was used in The Bone Temple until after the film’s release, revealing a surprising gap between artists and filmmakers.
The magazine’s new format—hosted by James Dyer in Chris Assembly’s absence—offers a fresh, personal take on the issue, spotlighting deep cuts and emotional storytelling over traditional page-by-page reviews.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Shameless 10: A New Format in Chris' Absence
James Dyer takes over The Shameless Plug in Chris Assembly’s absence, introducing a personal list of 10 favorite features from Empire Issue 453. He sets the tone with humor and nostalgia, teasing the episode’s focus on secrecy, personal stories, and deep dives into iconic filmmakers.
Steven Spielberg: The Man, The Myth, The Cover Story
“He says his favourite science fiction movies are Dune and Dune Part 2. And I think really that says everything you need to know.”
The Secret Life of Disclosure Day and the Art of Spoiler Control
James and Nick discuss the extreme secrecy surrounding Spielberg’s upcoming film Disclosure Day, including the ban on revealing the third act in marketing. They reflect on past experiences with top-secret projects, like the first Avatar and Indiana Jones 5, and the thrill of being the first to break news.
4DX, Necrophiliac Rom-Coms, and the Return of Smell-O-Vision
“I really, for his bravery, I'm putting it in my top ten.”
James Ortiz, Bruce Dickinson, and the Power of the Puppet
“I was a pupil of Bruce Dickinson. Absolutely mind-blowing bombshell.”
“He says his favourite science fiction movies are Dune and Dune Part 2. And I think really that says everything you need to know.”
“I was a pupil of Bruce Dickinson. Absolutely mind-blowing bombshell.”
“He survived a tsunami like in real life.”
Host
Guests
Empire Magazine
other
Steven Spielberg
person
James Dyer
person
Chris Assembly
person
Disclosure Day
media
Ian Freer
person
Bruce Dickinson
person
Jet Li
person
Ben Wheatley
person
David Lowery
person
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