Ep. 476- Film Noir Fatal Women with Alain Silver and James Ursini

Front Row Classics is happy to welcome back Turner Classics Movies' Alicia Malone. Alicia just penned her first fiction story that is perfect for classic film lovers. "Murder at the Movies: A Movie Palace Mystery" is a cozy mystery set in the world of movie theaters. Alicia has created a page turner that will please mystery lovers and classic film fans alike. "Murder at the Movies: A Movie Palace Mystery" is available from TCM and Running Press wherever books are sold. Alicia Malone is a host on Turner Classic Movies and an authority on classic, independent, and foreign films. She is particularly passionate about supporting women in film and has given two TEDx talks on the accomplishments and obstacles women have faced throughout cinema’s history. Malone began her television career in her native Australia, working behind the scenes. Her expertise in film led to her transition as a host, interviewer, and film critic for television, radio, print, and online. She has appeared as a film expert on a variety of TV networks and programs, including CNN’s The Movies documentary series, MSNBC, Access Hollywood, E!, Entertainment Tonight, MTV, and ABC.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at 1963's Charade. Brandon is joined by Matt Duffy to take a look at the most-Hitchcock like film that wasn't directed by Hitch himself. Directed by Stanley Donen, the movie is a suspenseful comedic mystery and still feels fresh in 2026. Brandon and Matt discuss the charm of Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn and how the constant plot twists keep the momentum and fun at a high pace.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at the Best Actress winning performance of 1948. Brandon is joined by, friend of the podcast, Holley Snaith. They two are discussing Johnny Belinda starring Jane Wyman. Directed by Jean Negulesco, this drama tells the story of Wyman as a young woman who is "deaf-mute" and lives with her father and aunt in Canada. The movie explores the themes and consequences of spreading lies & rumors. Brandon and Holley also celebrate the performances of Lew Ayres, Charles Bickford and Agnes Moorehead.

Front Row Classics is pleased to welcome podcaster and host, Tommy Kovac. Brandon and Tommy discuss his love of film and how it inspired him to host his own show. The conversation then turns to Batman (1966). The two hosts discuss the highlights and fun that continues to permeate these decades later. You can listen to Tommy's podcast, "Splat from the Past" here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTGvmvEi8cgiJoVEv7C5Hcw

Front Row Classics welcomes back our friend, Jessica Pickens. Brandon and Jessica pick up where they left off with their "trashy movie" discussion from earlier in the year. They're taking a look at 1957's Peyton Place. The two not only re-visited the movie, they also took a look at the original book by Grace Metalious. The conversation includes the highlights of the film and why it might be better than the book itself.