Entertainment
Omen Presents: In Media Res
In this episode of Omen Presents, Tim Krause introduces the darkly comedic audio drama 'In Media Res,' which follows an unknown actor thrust into the spotlight as the new face of a blockbust...
Omen Presents: In Media Res
Entertainment •
0:00 / 0:00
Interactive Transcript
spk_0
Hello friends, I'm Tim Krause, creator of Omen, and welcome back to Omen Presents, a
spk_0
between-season series featuring episode spotlights from other great audio dramas, while we're
spk_0
busy working on Omen Season 2.
spk_0
It's been a busy nine months since our last installment of Omen Presents. I'd say a good
spk_0
95% of Omen Season 2 is recorded and ready for post-production. We have had a few unrelated
spk_0
health issues within our cast and crew over the months, so I've slowed the recording schedule
spk_0
to allow folks to recover, take things at their own pace, and try to leave it as much
spk_0
stress from life as possible. I am extremely grateful that Omen is a fully independent
spk_0
production. If we were beholden to some angel investor, I might not have the freedom
spk_0
to work around the challenges that real life constantly throws our way. So yet again, another
spk_0
huge thank you to our patrons. Your support has given our team a lot of flexibility this
spk_0
year, and you all mean the world to me. Just a reminder, if you'd like to support Omen's
spk_0
upcoming second season, you can become a patron at patreon.com slash Omen Podcast. Patrons
spk_0
at all levels gain access to news and extras like Omen's bonus anthology, Apocryphal
spk_0
Accounts, whose second volume will be coming out next year.
spk_0
While our recording schedule begins winding down, I've been compiling scenes as much as
spk_0
I can, cleaning up files and organizing tracks to help expedite the process of take selection
spk_0
and sound design, which I'm very much looking forward to. I've also been working closely
spk_0
with our composer, Matt Lee, both on new music for season 2, as well as updated versions
spk_0
of the season 1 OST and scene bumpers. We hope to fully wrap recording on Omen season
spk_0
2 by later this year and begin releasing by early 2026. I plan to release snippets and
spk_0
samples of my work to patrons as episodes are completed, so stay tuned for more updates.
spk_0
In the meantime, I have a brand new cinematic audio drama that you should definitely keep
spk_0
your eye on. In Media Res is a darkly comic limited series about an unknown actor given
spk_0
a huge franchise role as the next Jack Stellar and the Hollywood machine that upends his
spk_0
life. Smiley Written, expertly acted and cleverly composed, this five part audio drama from
spk_0
our friends at the Good Story Guild caught my attention immediately.
spk_0
In Media Res explores the transactional underbelly of the film studio system as a local
spk_0
small time actor struggles to retain his identity while assuming the role as the next in-universe
spk_0
James Bond meets Ethan Hunt American espionage hero.
spk_0
And if the excellent story weren't already enough, In Media Res also features a recurring
spk_0
Greek chorus composed of a very put upon radio DJ played by the great James Urbanyak,
spk_0
who is being forced to play the various Jack Stellar movie themes on his radio show. So
spk_0
be sure to listen to the end of the episode to hear both Urbanyak's hilarious performance
spk_0
as well as the impressive original track Blood in the Water.
spk_0
This Omen presents Spotlight of In Media Res was promoted by the Good Story Guild. Like
spk_0
all good story guild productions, In Media Res has great writing, great sound design,
spk_0
and great original music. And as I said before, this series really stands out to me as something
spk_0
special. So I'm excited to share their first episode with you now. Enjoy the first installment
spk_0
of In Media Res. And until next we meet, fair winds and following seas.
spk_0
This waiting is torture.
spk_0
Dude, we got another donation. Anonymous.
spk_0
One less thing in the credits.
spk_0
Alex, do you lie reading for the role of Jack Stellar?
spk_0
Do I look hungover in these screen tests?
spk_0
A bit.
spk_0
But it's a steely hungover like a Daniel Craig, not Ben Affleck at Jack in the box. Don't
spk_0
do this.
spk_0
You always do this.
spk_0
It's the Fanny Packs under my eyes.
spk_0
It's like they can't cash me off of these tapes. Jack Stellar is America's most deadly weapon,
spk_0
not a bar still sports bro.
spk_0
Hey Alexa, what is the definition of anxiety?
spk_0
According to Help.com, anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease. Typically about
spk_0
an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.
spk_0
Hey Alexa, what is the total box office revenue of the Jack Stellar film series?
spk_0
According to box office mojo.com, the spectacular franchise, Jack Stellar, has grossed $18 billion
spk_0
over 22 films, ranking it below James Bond and above.
spk_0
Go fuck your shelf.
spk_0
I'm sorry, I didn't quite get that.
spk_0
I can tell you why you're going to get the role.
spk_0
Besides me coaching you through month's of screen tests, because Logan Lerman can't
spk_0
take a fucking punch.
spk_0
You can.
spk_0
Damn it.
spk_0
Oh, God, that is my action hero.
spk_0
It's almost 8 p.m.
spk_0
Not in LA.
spk_0
And you don't want it to feel like you're waiting for their call.
spk_0
Let's go grab a drink.
spk_0
I don't trust myself drinking around strangers.
spk_0
I won't be able to keep the shit a secret.
spk_0
Maybe no drinks.
spk_0
You do look a bit puffy.
spk_0
Oh, God.
spk_0
Damn that one.
spk_0
This is serious.
spk_0
Our careers are writing on this call.
spk_0
Yes, and no.
spk_0
This rocket's us up to the A list, but we'll get there either way.
spk_0
Crowdfunding, filming our sequel in November, or a street shot to the top.
spk_0
Both plans are solid.
spk_0
You know, you need to ask your boss about sponsoring craft.
spk_0
I can't go back to a food truck.
spk_0
Everyone back home is buying houses and getting married.
spk_0
And they'll all be divorced and miserable while we're getting awards and giving speeches.
spk_0
LA.
spk_0
I gotta film this.
spk_0
You can't.
spk_0
It's in our NDA.
spk_0
I need to pick up.
spk_0
Wait.
spk_0
I need a video for the Seedons Park.
spk_0
Action.
spk_0
Remember.
spk_0
You're a lull.
spk_0
I wish.
spk_0
Pick up, pick up.
spk_0
Okay.
spk_0
Uh, it's just sorry.
spk_0
Yes, hello.
spk_0
Alex speaking.
spk_0
Are you alone?
spk_0
Yes.
spk_0
Holding for David Keller.
spk_0
I'm not holding.
spk_0
Speak of the.
spk_0
Oh.
spk_0
Alex and her Eli.
spk_0
The studio inked up contracts for Logan Lerman.
spk_0
But then we convinced them that the safe choice was the wrong choice.
spk_0
Holy shit.
spk_0
Welcome to the big leagues, kid.
spk_0
I got the part.
spk_0
You know what sealed it?
spk_0
Starting that zoom in a dark lit room and assembling a pistol blindfolded brilliant
spk_0
move.
spk_0
I knew that would work.
spk_0
Who's that?
spk_0
Cat.
spk_0
Is he not alone?
spk_0
Traveling.
spk_0
Oh.
spk_0
Cohen steppered here, director of solitary Alex's first film.
spk_0
A prepped Alex for that little stunt.
spk_0
Colin.
spk_0
Uh, Colin.
spk_0
spk_0
C-N-D-A-D.
spk_0
Yes.
spk_0
10 second round.
spk_0
Jesus.
spk_0
Okay.
spk_0
Well, uh, both of you.
spk_0
Not a word to anyone.
spk_0
What talent and ATG giveeth?
spk_0
Loud mouth take it the way.
spk_0
You reading me?
spk_0
Alex.
spk_0
Man.
spk_0
He's still in shock.
spk_0
We got it.
spk_0
Splendid.
spk_0
We have a tradition here at ATG when someone new gets a huge role like this.
spk_0
It's best if you're under our care until we announce it in the trades.
spk_0
It's just after 8 p.m.
spk_0
Eastern.
spk_0
Can you be packed and ready for a red eye?
spk_0
Tonight.
spk_0
The role starts right now.
spk_0
Master Eli, hot tip.
spk_0
Your anonymous days are over.
spk_0
Very soon you won't be able to walk down the street without people aiming their phones
spk_0
at you.
spk_0
No one is ready for that kind of lifestyle shock, but we'll do our best to prep you.
spk_0
Between now and the announcement, don't say a thing to anyone, or I will personally strike
spk_0
you down with great vengeance.
spk_0
Great work, kid.
spk_0
See you soon.
spk_0
And scene.
spk_0
The wide idea from you, but Keller.
spk_0
Phew.
spk_0
A guy was on fire.
spk_0
Did I say thank you?
spk_0
Did you say, fuck, dude?
spk_0
You got it.
spk_0
We're in.
spk_0
Ah!
spk_0
I can't believe it, man.
spk_0
Oh my god.
spk_0
They picked me.
spk_0
Papiii is a dog.
spk_0
Good story, guilt presents.
spk_0
In media res.
spk_0
Star in Kyle Prue, Nicole Kang, and Christopher Gabbower, directed by Rachel Music.
spk_0
Episode 1.
spk_0
Blood in the Water.
spk_0
Written by Anna Norea Francino.
spk_0
As he ripped his night vision goggles off, the bitter wind of Wyoming curled into Jack
spk_0
Stellar's face like the talons of an eagle.
spk_0
The bruised hues of dawn were rising over the Cheyenne mountain complex, home to the
spk_0
NORAD base that almost pulled off the first military coup in American history.
spk_0
Jack stood at the entrance of the tunnel, detonator in hand.
spk_0
The woman he once loved bleeding out eight levels below, the pain of her vitrelle,
spk_0
throbbing more than the bullet she put in his arm.
spk_0
The man felt it all, but the mission called for no remorse.
spk_0
He slowly raised the detonator as if he was giving a toast to all of the-
spk_0
Enough with the outdated IP.
spk_0
Join us in the real world.
spk_0
You're headed to an actual Malibu Beach house.
spk_0
Your top tier agency footing the bill-
spk_0
Look up.
spk_0
Appreciate the palm trees.
spk_0
Breathe this shit in.
spk_0
Sorry, I know.
spk_0
It's a lot.
spk_0
Wait till you see this.
spk_0
What?
spk_0
Our new pad.
spk_0
Check it out.
spk_0
Mike gave me the address.
spk_0
Mike?
spk_0
Airport pickup.
spk_0
The guy driving us who looks like he used to kill people?
spk_0
No offense or anything.
spk_0
Guess they don't pay him to be social.
spk_0
Here, you take my phone.
spk_0
Scroll up.
spk_0
Whoa.
spk_0
Okay.
spk_0
Six bathrooms.
spk_0
Inside pool.
spk_0
Outside pool.
spk_0
What size is that bed?
spk_0
Coincised.
spk_0
But this one's nice too.
spk_0
It's the couch.
spk_0
Ha ha ha ha.
spk_0
See, this is why I need you here seriously.
spk_0
We need to make this official right off the bat.
spk_0
Get you signed to.
spk_0
Infiltrate the agency.
spk_0
Protect you from the inside.
spk_0
Hollywood's all about packaging.
spk_0
ATG gets director actor Dool on the rise.
spk_0
We get eyes on scripts.
spk_0
We actually want to fund.
spk_0
Make the machine work for us.
spk_0
And unless I fuck it up.
spk_0
Have I ever let you let us down?
spk_0
Oh, wow.
spk_0
You've got to be shitting me.
spk_0
Home sweet home.
spk_0
Got a movie star in here if anyone's interested.
spk_0
What is the director doing here?
spk_0
It was his one ask.
spk_0
He needs a little hand holding this week.
spk_0
Isn't that what I pay for?
spk_0
Zander Eli.
spk_0
Ah ha ha.
spk_0
Welcome to sunny California.
spk_0
Oh, Alex, hi.
spk_0
You remember Cohen?
spk_0
David.
spk_0
Congrats on the first weekend of heat, too.
spk_0
I hear you're the one who convinced Michael Man to ride a sequel.
spk_0
Yeah.
spk_0
Cohen, why don't I show you the house while these two talk big picture?
spk_0
It's better if we keep Cohen in the loop.
spk_0
If you don't mind, I wouldn't be here without him.
spk_0
Let's grab a selfie.
spk_0
I smell history in the making on that cool ocean breeze.
spk_0
You'll have this framed on your desk years from now.
spk_0
Where it all begins.
spk_0
Yeah.
spk_0
I'll take that.
spk_0
spk_0
No photos.
spk_0
Sorry.
spk_0
Yours, too.
spk_0
If you don't mind.
spk_0
Oh, sure.
spk_0
No phones until we do the final briefing.
spk_0
Back in no time.
spk_0
Cat will take care of your day to day, but I just wanted to be here to roll out the red carpet,
spk_0
answer any questions you might have.
spk_0
We were thinking maybe a swim to wash the trip off.
spk_0
All welcome.
spk_0
Hoping the bar by the indoor pools fully stuck.
spk_0
The indoor pool is closed for the summer.
spk_0
Outdoors it is.
spk_0
Let's leave the tanning to make up, shall we?
spk_0
We've only got five days and a lot to do.
spk_0
We shoot in less than a week.
spk_0
We haven't seen the script.
spk_0
Not for the shoot.
spk_0
A live event hosted by Nikki Carmichael.
spk_0
Worldwide exclusive.
spk_0
The new Jack's Dealer revealed.
spk_0
One of the other Jack's had a last minute clash, so Friday it is.
spk_0
Nikki Carmichael, interviewing me.
spk_0
Start channeling that inner spy.
spk_0
This business is all about.
spk_0
Quick change.
spk_0
You adapt.
spk_0
You survive.
spk_0
ATG clients hit the ground running.
spk_0
With plenty of support.
spk_0
Of course.
spk_0
So let's head in.
spk_0
Get you officially in the ATG fold.
spk_0
Can I just say, David, ATG?
spk_0
Uh oh oh.
spk_0
Uh oh.
spk_0
WME.
spk_0
Logan Lerman's agents.
spk_0
Let's get that going.
spk_0
Excuse me.
spk_0
No.
spk_0
I hear you, Jerry.
spk_0
I do.
spk_0
I also find myself thrown back to what?
spk_0
Three.
spk_0
Hmm.
spk_0
He shouldn't be too much longer.
spk_0
Your room's OK?
spk_0
Anything you need?
spk_0
No.
spk_0
Thanks.
spk_0
They're great.
spk_0
Loving the glass box vibes.
spk_0
Sunset will make you want to take up watercolors.
spk_0
OK.
spk_0
So these, they're just hard copies of the contracts I already sent you.
spk_0
Nice pen.
spk_0
Big moment.
spk_0
Yeah.
spk_0
Thing is, me and Cohen, we tend to work as a team.
spk_0
It's sort of our brand, how the fans know us in solitary.
spk_0
The sequel's already in pre-pro.
spk_0
Would it make more sense maybe if we both
spk_0
shined on at the same time?
spk_0
Unfortunately, ATG doesn't usually
spk_0
work with emerging talent.
spk_0
David made an exception for Stellar.
spk_0
You know what?
spk_0
Oh, I get that and appreciate it.
spk_0
I just tend to do my best work with Cohen to bounce off of.
spk_0
Also, sorry.
spk_0
The first three letters missing off my name, the typos still there.
spk_0
We've already got Alexander Skarsgard and Alexander Dremon
spk_0
on a roster, but Zander Eli tested far better
spk_0
than Alexander or Alex.
spk_0
Pested.
spk_0
In all three demos.
spk_0
35 plus especially.
spk_0
The moms already love you.
spk_0
He already has a following as Alex Eli.
spk_0
Our first film did really really-
spk_0
At the solitary, I'm aware.
spk_0
Fans are already getting behind the sequel.
spk_0
A name change makes no sense at this stage in his career.
spk_0
Zander's career starts today.
spk_0
I'll do respect.
spk_0
No one knows Alex better than I do, sir.
spk_0
And I-
spk_0
I'll do respect.
spk_0
The situation has evolved.
spk_0
Zander Eli is America's son turned America's hero.
spk_0
He is living proof that good things can happen to anyone.
spk_0
Hope wrapped up in a good looking, but not too good looking
spk_0
package.
spk_0
Zander Eli isn't red or blue.
spk_0
He loves God.
spk_0
He volunteers.
spk_0
He barbecues on the 4th of July.
spk_0
He is every kid out there being raised by a single mother
spk_0
who hoped-
spk_0
I-
spk_0
Sorry.
spk_0
That's not.
spk_0
It wasn't just-
spk_0
Matt.
spk_0
Matt, what are you doing to me?
spk_0
Dad was in the picture too.
spk_0
Well, not all the time.
spk_0
He's a trucker.
spk_0
Oh, another American hero?
spk_0
I can see the dual interview already.
spk_0
No.
spk_0
Yeah, that is PR gold.
spk_0
I've-
spk_0
Let's get Mr. Eli out here in time for the line.
spk_0
No, I-
spk_0
I'm-
spk_0
I'm not sure that that-
spk_0
Come on!
spk_0
Nikki loves a family reunion.
spk_0
Sure.
spk_0
Haven't seen each other since Mom's funeral.
spk_0
How proud dad must be.
spk_0
His son done good.
spk_0
No.
spk_0
The man who made the man.
spk_0
The rising star reconnecting with his dad.
spk_0
Jack Stellar reconnecting with America.
spk_0
No airs.
spk_0
No pre-sense.
spk_0
Alex's dead is-
spk_0
No calls.
spk_0
No interviews.
spk_0
A-
spk_0
Cohen's right.
spk_0
A cone won't be there to answer these questions for you.
spk_0
Interview one, two, three hundred.
spk_0
It's just you and whatever hotshot
spk_0
shoves a camera in your face.
spk_0
And what do you say?
spk_0
Who will you be?
spk_0
Alex Eli, who-
spk_0
Stutter steps through the basics.
spk_0
Maybe has a dad but doesn't want to talk about it.
spk_0
And sure as hell can't stand his own if pressed.
spk_0
Or Zander Eli.
spk_0
The determined son of a single mom.
spk_0
Who knows exactly who he is.
spk_0
What he wants.
spk_0
And how he got here.
spk_0
A kid who earned the right to be plucked from obscurity.
spk_0
Who won't be tossed back there anytime soon.
spk_0
So long as he sticks to the script, which-
spk_0
Let's face it.
spk_0
Is his job after all.
spk_0
Let us do ours.
spk_0
Zander.
spk_0
We know how to make people trust us.
spk_0
And we'll build you an indestructible career.
spk_0
The world will be at your feet.
spk_0
Anything.
spk_0
Or anyone in reach.
spk_0
Catwalk with me.
spk_0
Mm-hmm.
spk_0
Yep.
spk_0
Coming.
spk_0
Mm-hmm.
spk_0
Oh.
spk_0
Wish you could have heard that concession speech from Cherokee.
spk_0
They really thought they had a chance to rip that franchise away from us.
spk_0
Sorry to have missed it.
spk_0
Hey, I'm not sure if hard and fast is the best approach with Alex.
spk_0
Zander.
spk_0
Zander.
spk_0
Never make me ask twice in front of a client.
spk_0
You don't want to level up yet.
spk_0
I can.
spk_0
Cat.
spk_0
Have I made a mistake here?
spk_0
Giving you more than you can handle?
spk_0
No, no.
spk_0
You haven't.
spk_0
Good.
spk_0
Then let's get some blood in the water.
spk_0
Cone out.
spk_0
Our man.
spk_0
Bocused.
spk_0
Every second before that live counts.
spk_0
ATG clients hit the ground running.
spk_0
Trusting you with this.
spk_0
Don't make me regret it.
spk_0
I got it from here.
spk_0
Thanks boss.
spk_0
Right.
spk_0
Fuck that guy.
spk_0
Gucci Vennier's giving us a lesson in bow and scrape.
spk_0
He had a point.
spk_0
He doesn't even know you.
spk_0
You felt like he'd done a pretty deep dive.
spk_0
He had a call that fired him up.
spk_0
Then he took it out on us.
spk_0
He wasn't wrong, though.
spk_0
Oh, shit.
spk_0
I need to get my back story straight.
spk_0
He's right.
spk_0
Don't let him get inside your head.
spk_0
Where do we flies my dad out?
spk_0
And I get surprised on live TV.
spk_0
That's not going to happen.
spk_0
How can you not happening?
spk_0
And forget that douchebag.
spk_0
It's Robo Cat will deal with on the daily.
spk_0
We just need to get her on our side.
spk_0
Get me signed and it's.
spk_0
What?
spk_0
I want that.
spk_0
Promise.
spk_0
But we can't rock the boat too much, man.
spk_0
They'll go right back to Logan.
spk_0
Okay.
spk_0
I hear that.
spk_0
I might have come on a bit strong.
spk_0
Guys.
spk_0
We'll change tech.
spk_0
United Front, but we'll play the long game.
spk_0
Quietly show them how well we work together.
spk_0
He's on the prize.
spk_0
Get you embedded on that A list.
spk_0
Then leverage your profile.
spk_0
Go with it then.
spk_0
The name changed.
spk_0
Fuck no.
spk_0
Don't budge on the name.
spk_0
They hired Alex Eli.
spk_0
We're going to give them Alex Eli.
spk_0
Guys.
spk_0
We've got a lot to get through.
spk_0
Coming.
spk_0
Cool.
spk_0
Cool.
spk_0
Thanks, man.
spk_0
And hey, I will always be there.
spk_0
He was wrong about that.
spk_0
No pressure, but we do need to get the sign
spk_0
and move on to the real work of getting you media trained.
spk_0
She's a machine all over it.
spk_0
And well familiar with the charm offensive.
spk_0
Get help it.
spk_0
Sorry, it's just the name.
spk_0
Zander.
spk_0
Hmm.
spk_0
They'll all spell it with a Z.
spk_0
We're actually doing a dual live stream with X.
spk_0
They've got a custom X logo to roll out.
spk_0
Okay, so the live will focus on Stellar's 60th anniversary.
spk_0
Jack's past and future.
spk_0
You'll join them right at the end.
spk_0
A T's more than anything, but the fans have been going crazy
spk_0
trying to predict this and no one will see you coming.
spk_0
We are going to shock America.
spk_0
Stavis.
spk_0
Ah.
spk_0
Thank you, Mike.
spk_0
Your phones.
spk_0
Went for right on their own, did they?
spk_0
Reminder.
spk_0
No texts, photos or posts that are Jack Stellar related.
spk_0
One eye-clawed link could ruin the shock value of the live reveal.
spk_0
Yes, mother.
spk_0
Will Chuck Flynn be there on Friday?
spk_0
Ah, yeah.
spk_0
He's the only Jack that wasn't busy.
spk_0
But we're trying to find a minutiae.
spk_0
I must have watched Cypher Protocol 20 times.
spk_0
Give it 20 years.
spk_0
The kids of today will be reminiscing about seeing Xander Eli
spk_0
and Pacific Fury.
spk_0
Where the fuck's my video?
spk_0
Is Davis?
spk_0
Hell in.
spk_0
What?
spk_0
The video I took of you getting the call from David.
spk_0
It's gone.
spk_0
Mike and our team removed any materials deemed high risk.
spk_0
Team.
spk_0
You got Navy SEALs watching us?
spk_0
Mike offers a variety of services.
spk_0
We'll just leave it at that, okay?
spk_0
I wasn't going to share it.
spk_0
No.
spk_0
Not tempted to splash it around.
spk_0
Up the eyeballs on that crowd funder of yours?
spk_0
That ship would have been viral goal.
spk_0
In breach of the NDA that you signed.
spk_0
We'll handle all the PR from here.
spk_0
Alex has other things going on.
spk_0
Not anymore.
spk_0
I can do both.
spk_0
Right?
spk_0
Look, Alex, I don't really want to get into all of this.
spk_0
We do.
spk_0
Fine.
spk_0
Legal will be in touch.
spk_0
But Xander still.
spk_0
His name is Alex.
spk_0
It's a holding deal.
spk_0
Any Indies would need to be approved
spk_0
and I can tell you right now that the follow-up film
spk_0
you have planned.
spk_0
It in no way aligns with Jack Stellar's All-American brand.
spk_0
The film is about America and the opioid crisis
spk_0
with our veterans.
spk_0
Jaila broke in on a redneck meth role,
spk_0
but she couldn't do those kinds of films
spk_0
right after she became Katniss.
spk_0
Look, franchise icons have to be careful with Indies.
spk_0
He hasn't signed yet.
spk_0
You don't own him.
spk_0
But you do?
spk_0
Big franchises take up a lot of time, you know.
spk_0
Training, prep, shoot, junket tours.
spk_0
So if you want your little Indie to shoot this decade,
spk_0
I suggest you consider recast it.
spk_0
Oh, fuck!
spk_0
Do you think...
spk_0
Pull him calm down, man.
spk_0
You're listening to this.
spk_0
Hey, cool off.
spk_0
You can't let her just look like a walk.
spk_0
Come on.
spk_0
Don't rock the boat.
spk_0
Remember?
spk_0
You gotta trust me, okay?
spk_0
Just go unpack or something.
spk_0
Yeah?
spk_0
Yeah.
spk_0
Bye.
spk_0
Lucky the doors aren't made of glass.
spk_0
Sorry.
spk_0
He doesn't usually get worked up like that.
spk_0
Hmm.
spk_0
I guess I have a way.
spk_0
Our new movie, it's everything to him.
spk_0
Every word on the page, every cue, he agonizes over it.
spk_0
He prepped me for the audition.
spk_0
Coached me all the way, stopped me from going and saying,
spk_0
he's also seen everything.
spk_0
Knows the classics inside out.
spk_0
If anyone deserves to be signed by ATG,
spk_0
to be crafting the new era of stories, it's Cohen.
spk_0
I'm just the face for his voice.
spk_0
Hmm.
spk_0
What?
spk_0
You just sold your friend like an old pro.
spk_0
But you can't even take credit for the multiple auditions you nailed.
spk_0
All on your own?
spk_0
You're a no-namer who just landed one of the most iconic roles in American cinema.
spk_0
Not Cohen.
spk_0
You.
spk_0
His whole family, Cohen's all of them, they...
spk_0
When my dad gave up on me.
spk_0
Hmm.
spk_0
I get that.
spk_0
Look, I get that you two go way back.
spk_0
But this role is yours.
spk_0
Your life-changing moment.
spk_0
And you need to drop the package and grab it with both hands.
spk_0
But he's done so much for me.
spk_0
I need...
spk_0
If you sign us both...
spk_0
You didn't just land a big role.
spk_0
This casting decision is historic.
spk_0
You're about to be in an entirely different league.
spk_0
Kat.
spk_0
Hmm.
spk_0
Can I ask you a serious question?
spk_0
And can I get a real answer from you, not ATG?
spk_0
Yeah.
spk_0
Of course.
spk_0
Why me?
spk_0
I can't figure it out.
spk_0
Hmm.
spk_0
Look.
spk_0
Hollywood has gotten two out of touch with most of America.
spk_0
Too elitist.
spk_0
This is a calculated move to win those old fans back.
spk_0
By giving the role to an outsider.
spk_0
Not some Nepo baby or a Disney kid.
spk_0
Giving.
spk_0
So I didn't earn it.
spk_0
You earned it.
spk_0
America is going to really invest in your journey.
spk_0
You're one of them.
spk_0
Which is why we need to mold your image just a little bit,
spk_0
but not too much.
spk_0
And you want me to just ditch Cohen?
spk_0
Set boundaries.
spk_0
Stand on your own.
spk_0
Everyone in this business is replaceable.
spk_0
David could drop both of us tomorrow if the wins change.
spk_0
Dreads now.
spk_0
Facts.
spk_0
Everyone's going to want something from you once you're famous.
spk_0
Learn how to say no.
spk_0
Start with Cohen.
spk_0
I can't do this on my own.
spk_0
I am standing right here.
spk_0
I promise you.
spk_0
If you can find a way to want this, half as much as I do,
spk_0
I will make sure that this isn't just a once-off role.
spk_0
I will fight to build you a career.
spk_0
Whatever that looks like for you.
spk_0
Fame.
spk_0
Money.
spk_0
You want to platform to change the world?
spk_0
It's time to show your dad what you're really made of.
spk_0
I haven't seen him in years.
spk_0
He won't be able to move an inch without seeing you.
spk_0
Your face on his gas station coffee.
spk_0
Trailer's blasting on his truck radio.
spk_0
Postures.
spk_0
Teasers.
spk_0
Social media.
spk_0
Conversations he can't avoid.
spk_0
No limits.
spk_0
Not for Xander Eli.
spk_0
You really do want this?
spk_0
Don't you?
spk_0
See you signing or what?
spk_0
Hey, put clothes on.
spk_0
I'm coming in.
spk_0
Hey.
spk_0
Hey.
spk_0
Cats ordering food.
spk_0
Monitoring or sodium intake too.
spk_0
God forbid we enjoy anything or have fun in a beach house.
spk_0
Got another donation in.
spk_0
500.
spk_0
Five.
spk_0
That's great.
spk_0
Way there.
spk_0
I hope he didn't let that assistant push you around.
spk_0
I think I made some headway.
spk_0
It's like you said.
spk_0
I need to back myself a bit more.
spk_0
Play the game.
spk_0
Plan still solid?
spk_0
Of course.
spk_0
I can't believe they had the goal to try and change your name.
spk_0
Xander?
spk_0
I was thinking all those zeros in the contract.
spk_0
Maybe I financed the rest of our movie myself?
spk_0
Maybe.
spk_0
Meet yet the bull.
spk_0
Well, what would Nana Cat say?
spk_0
Let her try and take us both.
spk_0
Now you're talking.
spk_0
Hey, Google.
spk_0
What's the time?
spk_0
231 am.
spk_0
Hey, Alex here.
spk_0
Busy.
spk_0
But you guys hear my voice, so there's that.
spk_0
Record new voicemail greeting after the town.
spk_0
Hi.
spk_0
Xander, you are here.
spk_0
Xander, you are here.
spk_0
Leave me a message and I'll get right back.
spk_0
Xander, you are here.
spk_0
Leave me a message and I'll get right back.
spk_0
You're playing mouth-paste.
spk_0
I love you.
spk_0
Recorded, mixed and mastered by Evan Chambers.
spk_0
Produced by Simone Kissle, Maximilian Clark, and Elspeth Hunt.
spk_0
Executive produced by The Good Story Guild.
spk_0
Recorded under a SAG after a period.
spk_0
Find us at GoodStoryGill.co and on Patreon.
spk_0
For early access, add free episodes and exclusive bonus material
spk_0
from this and other GSG productions.
spk_0
Music.
spk_0
Welcome back, Southern California,
spk_0
to settling the score with Hobart Frunk,
spk_0
where we celebrate the music of cinema from Resner to Raja.
spk_0
This week we have a special treat.
spk_0
Usually we don't do franchises,
spk_0
but Little Birdie tells us that there's a new Jack Stellar,
spk_0
which I'm told I am so excited for.
spk_0
Also excited to announce our new primary sponsor,
spk_0
Warner Brothers Entertainment,
spk_0
celebrating 60 years of Jack Stellar.
spk_0
Now my loyal listeners may feel like it's cheap of me
spk_0
to focus on a franchise whose main artistic achievement
spk_0
is nitroglycer and breast implants,
spk_0
but as my husband says,
spk_0
take the money Hobart.
spk_0
So all week long, we'll be counting down the best music of the series.
spk_0
From the iconic themes,
spk_0
the score is that Symphony Orchestra's play at fundraiser,
spk_0
starting off at number 22.
spk_0
We have one of my personal favorites.
spk_0
Thank you, Shishana.
spk_0
Blood in the Water by Scorched.
spk_0
Spelled with a zero.
spk_0
The theme from 2009's Stellar.
spk_0
Let's dive into the history of what I'm sure is recognizably a song.
spk_0
Jesse Wurth,
spk_0
one-time child star, was fingered for the role.
spk_0
I believe they mean tap for the role.
spk_0
Blood in the Water.
spk_0
The film's theme song hit number 96 on the Billboard Top 100
spk_0
and made headlines when lead vocalist Johnny Nailgun
spk_0
suffered third-degree burns on 80% of his body
spk_0
during the filming of the music video.
spk_0
To avoid a costly lawsuit,
spk_0
Warner Brothers offered Johnny the role of the villain
spk_0
in 2012's installment, Double Cross, Scars of War.
spk_0
During the filming of which,
spk_0
he received third-degree burns to the other 20% of his body
spk_0
in an out infamous love scene.
spk_0
That is what, what?
spk_0
Shishana, get me a club in that.
spk_0
Please?
spk_0
And while you are listeners,
spk_0
burn some time listening to this.
spk_0
Come on in.
spk_0
The water is tepid and derivative,
spk_0
but at least there is blood in it.
spk_0
We are all on our way to the end.
spk_0
The water is tepid and derivative,
spk_0
but at least there is blood in it.
spk_0
spk_0
The water is tepid and derivative is tepid.
spk_0
I am going to go to the bottom.
spk_0
I am going to go ahead and bring it open.
spk_0
I will leave you in a splash.
spk_0
Soon if you are on heat, I will close it.
spk_0
The water is tepid and derivative,
spk_0
but at least there is blood in it.
spk_0
You can see that this is the right spot.
spk_0
If you go to the bottom.
spk_0
spk_0
spk_0
I will do it.
spk_0
The water is tepid and derivative is tepid.
spk_0
Thank you very much.
spk_0
And I am going to go ahead and bring it open.
spk_0
They live in a poor land of insults, curtain-point,
spk_0
they act like a nightmare.
spk_0
Blood in the water, right in the sand.
spk_0
On the shores of time there's a warrior standing
spk_0
Eagle's a buck in chaos for the world.
spk_0
Weapon is raised for a kill, though.
spk_0
Blood in the water, in the sharks gonna circle.
spk_0
There's no doubt in my mind I did that.
spk_0
So save it, urcalivate me, and I'll eviscerate you,
spk_0
I'll loot me, and I'll eliminate you,
spk_0
Define me, then I'll defend a straight.
spk_0
I was fated to hate him, I'll level him,
spk_0
Creature a mercenary,
spk_0
Preferred to get area torched for the warhubs anyway.
spk_0
At least I managed to beat the top to a priest
spk_0
and I'm going to holiday.
spk_0
Enter Poland, and I'm six,
spk_0
You're straight in the top of my shirt.
spk_0
List, take me blue you limp.
spk_0
The British chicks will hit this.
spk_0
Say Peter let me crash the gates in a Lincoln cotton
spk_0
metal with diplomatic plates.
spk_0
You call it murder, I call it Monday.
spk_0
You call it murder, I call it Monday.
spk_0
You call it murder, I call it Monday.
spk_0
I want to chase, take it off,
spk_0
Fuck, that's off, it's Monday.
spk_0
Blood in the water, right in the sand.
spk_0
Just the new release is to kill the whole moment.
spk_0
Show the time that the warrior's standing.
spk_0
He goes above him,
spk_0
K. I. Spill.
spk_0
Come get to your own,
spk_0
I'll come to you.
spk_0
Weapon is raised for food,
spk_0
Starring.
spk_0
Blood in the water,
spk_0
Light in the sand.
spk_0
Can I just keep me at my shoulder?
spk_0
The time that the warrior's standing.
spk_0
He goes above him,
spk_0
K. I. Spill.
spk_0
Time on the wings of demons.
spk_0
Weapon is raised for killing the world.