Media Mothership

I’m joined by Angus Metcalf for a thoughtful conversation about Twin Peaks and the idea of media as a re-enchanted, spiritual experience. Drawing on his recently completed Honours thesis from the University of Tasmania’s Media School, we explore questions of aura, sound, dream logic, and grief, and consider how Twin Peaks resists clarity, invites contemplation, and continues to haunt audiences decades after its original broadcast.
This episode was recorded live at Hobart’s Edge Radio 99.3FM studios and first aired on 8 January 2026.

Angus Metcalf's channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheOleRazzleDazzle1
For more info on Med...

John Cena’s last match, wrestling news, and the biggest debates, with special guest Marcus.

This episode was recorded at Hobart’s Edge Radio 99.3FM studios, and first aired on 18 Dec 2025.
For more info on Media Mothership go to https://mediamothership.au/ 
Recorded live each week from Edge Radio studios in Hobart, Tasmania. https://www.edgeradio.org.au/

Support the show: https://www.mediamothership.au/

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Trent Breward, recently returned from his  trip to Japan, shares his on-the-ground experiences with Japan’s vibrant wrestling scene, offering insights into live events, fan culture, and how Japanese wrestling (puroresu) differs from what Western audiences may expect.
We then return to last episode’s discussion of the Americanisation of anime, and early dubbing pioneer Fred Ladd. Drawing from Ladd’s DVD commentary on the U.S. localisation of Gigantor, Craig analyses how editing choices, cultural reframing, and narrative adjustments shaped early American perceptions of Japanese animation.

This episode was recorded at Hobart’s Edge Radio 99.3FM studio...

I’m joined by UTAS PhD student Ashley Remminga to unpack Fred Ladd’s commentary from the 1960s cartoon Gigantor, the US localised version of Tetsujin 28-go. We reflect on the wild rewrites of early anime dubs, and the cultural impact Gigantor had in Australia. This episode was recorded at Hobart’s Edge Radio 99.3FM studios, and first aired on 27 Nov 2025.

For more info on Media Mothership go to https://mediamothership.au/ 
Recorded live each week from Edge Radio studios in Hobart, Tasmania. https://www.edgeradio.org.au/

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We break down the latest media news and then take a deep dive into the early Americanisation of anime. Drawing on Fred Ladd’s commentary for the Gigantor (1964) cartoon, we explore how Ladd and his team reshaped Japanese storytelling, aesthetics, and themes to fit the expectations of American television.

For episode notes and links go to https://mediamothership.au/ 
Recorded live each week from Edge Radio studios in Hobart, Tasmania. https://www.edgeradio.org.au/ First Aired Date: 21 Nov 2025

Support the show: https://www.mediamothership.au/

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We interview Zackary Roeth, a volunteer at Print Radio and student filmmaker, to explore his work editing audiobooks for local radio and his creative work in student film.
Our movie review is the 90th anniversary of Bride of Frankenstein (1935), we unpack the film’s enduring legacy, stylistic nuances, and cultural impact. Drawing on insights from film historian Scott MacQueen’s audio commentary on the Blu-ray release, we delve into what makes this classic continue to resonate nearly a century later. 

Links:

This week we explore everything from Australia’s proposed streaming content rules to The Simpsons crossover in Fortnite. We discuss Rockstar’s abandoned spy game, why GTA never returned to London, a South Park subreddit mystery, Stellar Blade’s latest controversy, backlash over The Witcher on Netflix, and a surprising detail from Evangelion’s animation history.

For more info on Media Mothership go to https://mediamothership.au/ 
Recorded live each week from Edge Radio studios in Hobart, Tasmania. https://www.edgeradio.org.au/  

Support the show: https://www.mediamothership.au/

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Latest pop culture oddities, including video game mishaps, virtual weddings, and retro game finds. We end the show with a discussion of what makes a good bit of “Breaking News”, “Emergency Broadcast” diegetic media in zombie fans, and play some classic examples from “Night of the Living Dead” (1968) and “Shaun of the Dead”. 'Night of the Living Dead' is a classic zombie film that set the rules and tropes for the genre, while 'Shaun of the Dead' is a comedic take on the zombie apocalypse. We see how these “breaking news” clips from these films set up the rules and tropes of zombie...

We discuss PAX Aus 2025, Australia's biggest convention for video games and pop culture, highlighting some of the experiences Craig had there. We also chat about some of the strange and unusual news in media culture (links provided below).

Special guest Marcus joins us to explain key professional wrestling terms to understand the highlights, critiques and hype surrounding Wrestlepalooza 2025.

WWE Basic Terminology https://jesuitroundup.org/2024/08/wwe-basic-terminology/

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We cover some recent pop culture news and then dive into today's topic, using Nick Couldry’s work on media places to talk about the cracked.com article "14 Abandoned Movie Sets That You Can Go Screw Around in If You’ve Got the Time".

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We discuss what is considered one of the best adaptations of Shakespeare’s Macbeth: Kurosawa’s Throne of Blood. We draw on Michael Jeck’s commentary from the Criterion Blu-ray to explore the blending of Shakespearean tragedy, Japanese aesthetics (such as Noh theatre), and Kurosawa’s unique cinematic storytelling style.

We also dive into some of the TV tropes to highlight the film’s profound themes of power, guilt, ambition, and fate, along with Kurosawa’s masterful use of atmosphere and symbolism: Ambition Is Evil, Bloody Hallucinations of Guilt, Murder Makes You Crazy, the Sliding Scale of Free Will vs...

Recent pop culture and entertainment news: a mecha director’s concerns about relevancy for young fans, “creepy” popcorn bucket marketing in the Conjuring franchise, and anime as political protest in Indonesia. Plus, game mysteries, global music aspirants, pixel art activism, Jurassic World tours in Flight Sim, a new Tourism Australia campaign, sports gaming developments, and Superman’s struggles on page and screen.

References:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-24/how-well-do-audiences-relate-to-superheroes/105668972 

https://boundingintocomics.com/anime/gundam-gquuuuuux-director-evangelion-mecha-genre-kids/ 

https://kotaku.com/conjuring-4-last-rites-popcorn-bucket-annabelle-regal-cinemark-2000618273 

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-09/young-i...

Join us for a lively conversation with Leo from Hyperfixation Sensation as we dig into our most unexpected and memorable video game stories. This episode explores the unique ways immersive and ultra-realistic games shape how we connect, react, and even lose ourselves during play.

Links:
Listen in to Leo’s show on Edge Radio every Tuesday 11-12pm (AEST), streaming live on Edge Radio:

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We discuss the "East Meets West" interview from David Anthony Kraft’s Comics Interview (1995) issue 148. An interesting moment in the cultural exchange between Western and Japanese comics, focusing on a visit by American comics creators, including Will Eisner and Brian Stelfreeze, with Tezuka Productions. We delve into the early interactions between Western creators and manga during a time when distinctly Japanese-branded manga and anime were just emerging in the U.S. and Western markets. We also connect these insights to recent developments, including "Kadokawa Seeks New Manga Artists Overseas Due to Labor Shortage" (Mainichi Japan) and "'Frieren' Staff Warn Ag...

We break down SummerSlam 2025 from the big matches and surprises,  controversies, and what succeeded (and didn't) on the night. Join host Craig, co-host Taylor and special guest Marcus as we go over all the main points.

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We discuss the 1995 "What is Anime and Why Is Everybody Talking About It?" article from Comics Interview #148 magazine. What predictions were accurate, as well as the misses and misfires? We'll also explore what the West didn’t understand at that time about the localisation of manga and anime, and compare it to the present.

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Continuing our discussion on Orientalism from last week, where we explored the golden age of the radio series "The Shadow," this episode focuses on techno-orientalism as seen in the video game "Cyberpunk 2077." Craig, Taylor, and Ronan delve into the game's use of Japanese imagery and characters, examining its artistic and narrative intentions. They also discuss how the game utilizes conventions of the cyberpunk genre, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of its representations.

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every week (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

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The captivating world of "The Shadow," one of the most iconic radio drama series of the Golden Age, which aired from 1937 to 1954. In this episode, we explore the rich history and cultural significance of this early pulp character that left a lasting mark on pop culture. Through exclusive documentary recordings featuring key cast members and creative minds behind the series, we unravel the nostalgia surrounding its legacy. 
Join us as we analyze the intriguing episode “The Temple Bells of Neban,” featuring the legendary Orson Welles. We’ll examine the episode's key tropes and how it reflects the various Orienta...

We interview Edward Williams, who has recently published his tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) "Kingdoms of Amnesia." This game is set in a post-cataclysmic world where history has been fractured and restarted. We explore Edward's creative process and inspirations, examine the unique aspects of his Game Master (GM) philosophy, delve into his interesting mechanical choices, discuss the rich lore, and address the social and community aspects of RPG design.

For more information about "Kings of Amnesia" email kingdomsofamnesia@gmail.com

SB GAMES - LEGO® Parts, Sets, and Mini Figures Store | Hobart

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Why the renewed interest in "Star Wars: Battlefront 2"? What are the ambitious plans from Chinese studios to AI-remake classic kung fu films featuring legends like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li. Plus, and why the urgency to recover Marty McFly's lost guitar from "Back to the Future"?

We also take a deep dive into Stephen King's 'interior eye' from "Danse Macabre," tracing its roots back to Stan Freberg's iconic radio sketch, "Anybody Here Remember Radio?" Was TV truly a disruptive force for radio? Tune in as we tackle the fears of the 1960s and 1980s, as...

What is the chilling legacy of “Chicken Heart,” a seven-minute radio drama that first aired in 1937 on the iconic show Lights Out? Join us as we explore the eerie world crafted by Arch Oboler and discuss how this seemingly simple tale continues to haunt pop culture today. What makes “Chicken Heart” resonate so strongly in the contemporary era? We’ll delve into the historical context, the media landscape, and the anxieties of the pre-WWII era that shaped this story.

Using Blake Snyder's (2005) framework from Save the Cat, along with media theories from Slavoj Žižek and Stuart Hall, we wil...

Leaked files expose China's efforts to erase the history of the Tiananmen Square massacre. We also take a closer look at Helldivers 2’s epic battle for Super Earth and explore some unusual manga news from Japan.

Plus, we tackle some listener questions, dissecting the political layers and cultural significance of the Andor series. And don’t miss our setup for an in-depth conversation on the mid-90s anime that impacted a generation in Australia.

Links

Leaked files reveal how China is using AI to erase the history of Tiananmen Square massacre

Hell...

Join us for a thrilling episode as we dive into the latest news and intriguing events in media and pop culture! This week, we're continuing our unpacking Film Courage's Guide to Guide to Writing Evil Characters and exploring the fascinating trope of the Karma Deflector. Discover how villains often dodge consequences while their henchmen take the fall—only to face poetic justice in the third act! Tune in to hear us discuss why karmic retribution delivers such satisfying payoffs and the joy it brings to audiences.

Links

TV Executives Worried ‘Gilligan’s Island’ Might Be Too High...

We continue our discussion of Film Courage's "A Guide to Writing Evil Characters." In this segment, we explore the tropes of "Evil Characters We Root For" and "Techniques for Creating Empathy." We take a closer look at characters such as Conquest from the Invincible series, Agent Smith from The Matrix, and Davros from Doctor Who. And, of course, we cover the latest news in media and popular culture.

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every week (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

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How to Write Villainous Characters. Drawing on Film Courage's guide to creating evil characters, we explore the concept of "The Conflict in Every Human Heart" and the idea that "every person has a breaking point." We will discuss this theme through key movies and TV characters, including Colonel Kurtz from Apocalypse Now, Michael Corleone from The Godfather, Harvey Dent from Batman, Walter White from Breaking Bad, and various characters from the Harry Potter universe.

Link:

Film Courage, A Guide To Writing Evil Characters. https://youtu.be/54c8svkLHf4?si=T5U_pIUWBuSkPgWP

WrestleMania 41 shook the WWE universe—but has The Rock gone too far? Craig, Taylor, and special guest Marcus dive into the fallout of John Cena’s heel turn, unravel the deep storytelling driving the feud with Cody and The Rock, and debate whether this shift is good for WWE.

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every week (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

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Why do many Star Wars villains have British accents? In this episode, we break down the significance of this choice using cultural theory and storytelling frameworks. Drawing from John Fiske’s Textual Poaching, we explore how audiences interpret and reframe these portrayals. Stuart Hall’s theories on representation, identity, and ideology help explain how accent and villainy intersect in mainstream media. Plus, Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat framework sheds light on how storytelling conventions reinforce this trope.

Links:

George Lucas Explains Yoda's Unique Speech | HuffPost Latest News

Why are 'Star Wars' villains BRITIS...

How do historical perceptions of pigs shape modern food safety in Australia? We talk with PhD candidate Evelyn Lambeth about the fascinating world of pigs and pork in Australia. Drawing upon her current thesis research, “Pork Problems: Cultural Attitudes Toward Pigs Through History and Their Effects on Modern Food Safety in Australia,” Evelyn uncovers the rich historical context and colonial influences that have shaped our perceptions of these remarkable animals.

Join us as we explore the cultural and economic ramifications of pork consumption, the intricate web of environmental and public health considerations, and the research methodologies that brin...

Join hosts Craig, Taylor, and special guest Marcus as they navigate the twists and turns from politics to wrestling. Unpacking Jon Stewart’s fiery commentary on Trump’s heel turn on Zelenskyy in terms of the aftermath of John Cena’s epic heel turn that sent shockwaves through the WWE. And don’t miss our predictions for what’s next at WrestleMania 41.

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every Thursday 4-5pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

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Join us as we delve into the latest trends in media culture and spotlight a classic gem from the golden age of radio—'Nothing Behind the Door' (1947) from the Quiet, Please series. We analyze its storytelling beats using Blake Snyder's Save the Cat theory, uncovering what makes this episode a timeless piece of eerie radio drama. Inspired by the release of Black Mirror Season 7, we explore the roots of surreal, grim, and haunting narratives found in classic radio shows.

Links:

Delving deeper into the world of radio drama to uncover the layers beneath the stories, we explore an intriguing episode from X Minus One, “Mars is Heaven” by Ray Bradbury. There are some interesting deeper meanings in this story, which I’ll explore by looking into its historical context and seeing how the ideas of some theories and ideas can help explain these.

Liniks:

X Minus One - Mars Is Heaven (#3)

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every Friday 4-5pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

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Explore the intriguing themes of ideology and power in the latest Marvel film, "Captain America: Brave New World." Dr. Craig guides us on a thought-provoking journey into the darker side of American power, as depicted through characters like the Red Hulk. We delve into the broader implications of interpreting superhero films through heroic symbolism, revealing how these narratives reflect and challenge our understanding of societal power dynamics.

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every Friday 4-5pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

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We explore the intriguing parallels between WWE and Donald Trump's theatrical flamboyancy in the 'hair vs hair' event. We dissect the art of performance, charisma, and spectacle that both figures embody. We'll also break down Watch Mojo's Top 10 WWE Royal Rumble 2025 Moments, analyzing the highlights and the impact they have on fans and the wrestling community.

First Broadcast on Edge Radio, 7 Feb 2025.

Top 10 WWE Royal Rumble 2025 Moments

The hair vs hair event: https://youtube.com/shorts/sslPj-VM_Ss?si=q0yM9eoctQjvMQ2U

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every Friday 4-5pm...

Join us for an engaging conversation with Dr. Emerald King as we dive into the world of cosplay! We'll explore the upcoming Wellington Cosplay Photo Festival in New Zealand, discuss the vibrant cosplay scenes in Australia and New Zealand, and examine the unique differences and influences between the two cultures. Plus, we'll share tips for creating costumes that can withstand international travel and look ahead to exciting future plans in the cosplay community. Don't miss this insightful and fun episode!

Links:

We dive deeper into Eric R. Williams' "How to View and Appreciate Great Movies," focusing on the intricate layers of genre and the expectations they set for audiences. We then apply these insights to the fascinating Absolute Universe, a bold reimagining within the DC Multiverse. Join us as we explore how Absolute Batman, Absolute Superman, and Absolute Wonder Woman both meet and subvert traditional genre conventions.

Links: How to View and Appreciate Great Movies by Eric R. Williams | Goodreads

First Broadcast on Edge Radio, 24 January 2025.

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In this episode, we delve into the concept of film genre through the lens of Eric R. Williams' theories, as presented in his work, "How to View and Appreciate Great Movies". Professor Williams, an M.F.A. from Ohio University, offers a compelling lecture on movie critics and the art of appreciating great films.

We apply Williams' genre framework to both classic and contemporary films, demonstrating its enduring relevance and utility in understanding storytelling and filmmaking.

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Join host Craig Norris, PhD research student Ashley Remminga, and Kentaro as they dive into the fascinating world of semiotics. Originally broadcast on Edge Radio on January 10, 2025, this episode explores how semiotics can help us decode the world around us. Plus, we tackle the weirdest movie moment of 2024 from "Kraven the Hunter." Don't miss this engaging discussion on popular culture and theory!

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Listen live to “Media Mothership” every Friday 4-5pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

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Episode 94 - With host Craig Norris and guest Kentaro.First Broadcast on Edge Radio, 20 December 2024.

Dive into the latest buzz in media and pop culture! We then unravel Joseph Campbell’s Hero Journey and its cinematic influence, drawing upon Eric R. Williams' "How to View and Appreciate Great Movies." Discover how this timeless storytelling blueprint shapes modern cinema and why it still reigns supreme in Hollywood. See if Campbell’s Hero’s Journey still holds the key to blockbuster success!

Links:

Episode 93 - With host Craig Norris and Taylor Lidstone. First Broadcast on Edge Radio, 6 Dec 2024.

We explore the latest unusual media culture fails, then discuss the art of the "reversal" in storytelling, as explained in Jim Mercurio's "The Craft of Scene Writing: Beat by Beat to a Better Script."

Join us as we dissect iconic movie scenes, revealing how a well-crafted reversal can turn the tide of a story, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats. Discover the logic behind those unexpected twists and learn why the buildup to a surprise turning point is...

Episode 92 - With host Craig Norris and Taylor Lidstone. First Broadcast on Edge Radio, 29 November 2024.

Have you ever wondered how video games shaped our understanding of the Cold War? Today, we dive into the apocalyptic worlds of the past with William Knoblauch's 2015 chapter "Game Over? A Cold War Kid Reflects On Apocalyptic Video Games" from the book The State of Play: Creators and Critics on Video Game Culture.

Links:

The State of Play by Linus Larsson, Daniel Goldberg - Audiobook - Audible.com.au

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Episode 91 - With host Craig Norris and guest Ashley Remminga & Taylor Lidstone.First Broadcast on Edge Radio, 22nd November 2024.

Dive into the world of moe in manga and anime. Discover the key issues behind this concept as we break down character design and the emotional journeys of fans. We'll also explore how moe can be applied to popular Western TV shows and films. Plus, we tackle the more controversial aspects, including lolicon and the challenges of government classification around obscenity. Don't miss this deep dive into one of Japan's most fascinating cultural phenomena.

Links:

In this week's episode, we are joined by PhD candidate Ashley Remminga to delve into the fascinating world of Godzilla. As we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the iconic monster's debut in the 1954 film "Gojira," we uncover lesser-known facts and intriguing commentary about Godzilla. Join us for an in-depth exploration of the legendary kaiju and its enduring impact on pop culture.

First Broadcast on Edge Radio, 15th November 2024.

Links:

7 Godzilla Facts That Will Make You King of The Kaiju!

8 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About Godzilla and King Kong

...

This episode examines the significant properties that will become part of the public domain in 2025, with a spotlight on "SHIVER ME TIMBERS," the upcoming horror movie adaptation of Popeye. Additionally, we analyze Ian “Always Black” Shanahan’s critique of "Star Wars Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast" (2002) in his 2004 piece "Bow, N*" and its role in shaping New Games Journalism, with discussions on representation, identity, ethics, responsibility, and the essence of critical evaluation.

Links:

SHIVER ME TIMBERS | Official Trailer (2025) Popeye Horror

Public-Domain Popeye Is Now ‘An Unstoppable Killing Machine’ | Cracked.com

The Notable Pr...

In this episode, we consider some cultural studies perspectives on several intriguing stories. We explore how an Australian voice actor channels her 'inner Cate Blanchett' for Japan's high-speed train announcements. We also analyze Prime Video’s adaptation of “Like a Dragon: Yakuza,” focusing on the omission of the iconic song “Baka Mitai” and the subsequent clip of Kiryu singing it. We discuss the fascinating article “5 Words We Got by Misunderstanding Fictional Characters” from Cracked.com. Finally, we examine the news of “Alien: Romulus” being released on VHS in December.

Links:

Interview with Ashley Remminga, a PhD research student from the University of Tasmania's School of Global Cultures and Languages. We delve into Ashley's completed MA thesis from La Trobe University, titled “Gendered Speech in the Inclusive Fandom: How Gendered Terms and Transmisogyny Shape the Experience of Gender-Diverse Cosplayers.” Our conversation covers the nuances of gendered speech, the impact of transmisogyny, and the broader implications of Ashley's research.

Ashley’s work shines a light on queer, transgender, and gender-diverse participation within popular culture and fandom. We also explore her current research on how gender-diverse individuals interpret genderbending in anime...

In today's episode, we dive into a variety of intriguing topics including Digital Content Ownership. We explore a new California law that mandates companies to disclose that consumers don't actually own digital content, as reported by Engadget. The Big Bird Incident. We apply postmodern theory to analyze the near-disaster involving Big Bird on live television, examining the narrative through the lenses of skepticism, subjectivism, and relativism, based on an article from Cracked.com. ChatGPT Screams. We continue our postmodern analysis with an article from Gizmodo titled "Here’s What ChatGPT Sounds Like When It Screams." WrestleMania Highlight. We conclude wi...

In today's episode, Dr Craig discusses some unusual, quirky media culture stories, including Guillermo del Toro’s live-tweeted adventure with a ghost in a haunted Scottish hotel, the reaction to Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis trailer, the story behind a German warship cruising down the Thames while blasting Darth Vader’s iconic Imperial March theme, and some awkward meltdowns in DVD commentaries.

Links:

Guillermo del Toro Is Live-Tweeting His Beef With a Ghost in a Haunted Hotel in Scotland - IGN

Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis trailer goes after the haters | Polygon

German...

In this episode of Media Mothership, we highlight key developments in media culture. Escape From Tarkov now rewards players for reporting cheaters, enhancing community integrity. The Death Note musical addresses significant narrative challenges from the anime. Scientists have created a Dune-inspired stillsuit to help astronauts recycle urine in space. Sci-fi writer Robert J. Sawyer has made the cult DOS app WordStar available for free. Chinese officials are urged to stop playing the poker-like card game guandan, labelled as "decadent." Alien: Romulus director Fede Álvarez references the Alien: Isolation video game with phones that create jump scares. Join us for a...

Special guest Marty Clode (Zeitgeist_Studios), a talented figure sculptor, shares the story behind his recent award-winning entry in a local Warhammer 40K Space Marine Painting contest. Discover his approach to custom sculpting faces, creating captivating plinth scenes, and effectively telling a story through his art.

Links:

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We delve into a strange 'new' urban legend making the rounds about a 'haunted house' in 1980's West Hobart. We'll unpack its social media origins and discuss other local myths, including the tale of Old Zincy. Plus, we’ll cover the latest news, such as Deadpool & Wolverine propelling NSYNC’s ‘Bye Bye Bye’ into Spotify’s Global Top 20, and the rise of virtual pop stars aiming to revive Australia’s struggling music industry.

Links

Join us as we continue our deep dive into Den of Geek’s article, “The Best WrestleMania Matches of All Time,” focusing on their top picks: The Hardy Boyz vs. Edge and Christian vs. The Dudley Boyz (WrestleMania X-Seven), The Rock vs. Hollywood Hogan (WrestleMania X-8), and Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker (WrestleMania 25).

We bring in wrestling aficionado MC Dent to discuss why these matches are legendary and what makes them stand out.

We’ll explore insights from Tara Lomax and Mark Williamson’s article, “WrestleMania XL: The Greatest Story Ever Told (Part One),” breaking down four key...

In this episode, we dive into the latest trend of AI-generated voices, including Judy Garland and James Dean. Morgan Freeman’s reaction to the unauthorized use of AI to imitate his voice, and we also cover Instagram’s decision to change its ‘Made with AI’ label to ‘AI info’ following photographers’ complaints. We talk about a British man who was sentenced to four months in jail for carrying a Legend of Zelda sword in public as a fidget toy. We also explore the naming of a newly discovered eyeless spider after a creature from Monster Hunter. Finally, we highlight the rising pop...

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of audio-only gaming with a spotlight on “A Blind Legend.” Experience a unique segment where we play a part of the game on-air, showcasing its innovative use of binaural sound. As well as news around Final Fantasy 14:Dawntrail tourism, AI fails, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes special Blu-ray feature, and the Full Metal Jacket artwork backlash.

Links:

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of media tourism, journeying to iconic destinations made famous by movies and TV shows. Join me as I chat with Wendy and Nicholas from Edge Radio's Mental Connections (Tues 2 to 3 PM). Together, we’ll share unforgettable tales and humorous anecdotes from our travels, ranging from the magical realms of Disneyland to the streets of Cardiff, immortalized by Doctor Who. Tune in as we uncover the joys and hurdles of globetrotting to these beloved media hotspots.

Links:

Mental Connections - Edge Radio

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I chat with indie filmmakers Daniel Brooks, Edward William from Big Love Studios, and Xavier Direen about their latest project. We dive into the entire filmmaking journey—from pre-production to post-production—and share valuable insights and advice on self-funding a film from start to finish.

This episode was first Broadcast on Edge Radio on 14th June 2024.

Links

@big_love_studios • Instagram photos and videos

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We explore the “Baldur’s Gate 3" mod that brings Sir David Attenborough’s voice to the gameplay with his iconic narration. The PSA featuring Deadpool & Wolverine, humorously urging cinema audiences to silence their phones, the contentious YouTube copyright issue where a washing machine chime led to a copystrike, sparking debate over copyright enforcement. Viggo Mortensen’s homage to “Lord of the Rings” by sneaking his movie sword into a new film is highlighted. The topic for this week is the psychological phenomenon of the Mandela Effect, with examples that question collective memories of famous movie scenes. Concluding with a light-hearte...

Join us as we dive headfirst into the ring to continue our discussion of Den of Geek’s epic compilation of The Best WrestleMania Matches of All Time. We’ll also grapple with the power moves of Netflix, exploring its seismic impact on the WWE universe. So lace up your boots, adjust your championship belt, and let’s pin down the pulse-pounding action!

Links:

We explore how Microsoft Copilot observes Minecraft players and provides constructive feedback, the recent acquisition of Intellivision by Atari, marking the end of the very first console war. We then share our insights on crafting an effective radio drama hook, revisiting our past endeavors in creating radio dramas and sketch interviews, with a discussion of the captivating 1940s series Suspense and its masterful use of hooks to captivate listeners.

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Join special guest MC Dent as we cover Australian pro wrestlers Rhea Ripley and Grayson Waller’s triumphant return home for the WWE’s major event. We also discuss the upcoming WWE King and Queen of the Ring tournament, Netflix’s groundbreaking $5 billion deal to stream WWE Raw, and a nostalgic exploration of the best WrestleMania matches of all time. Tune in for insights, predictions, and wrestling history! 🎙️🤼‍♂️

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We discuss Darth Jar Jar’s LEGO comeback, compare radio charm to Spotify’s algorithm, and celebrate Bluey’s “Dad Baby” episode’s US release. We also cover Japan’s tourist restrictions, anime fan must-visits, Netflix’s Dead Boy Detectives’ yaoi elements, and Star Wars’ hidden influence in Shōgun. Tune in for a compact journey through the latest in entertainment and travel!

Links:

Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the unique Australian Superman radio series from the late '40s to early '50s, exploring its post-war cultural impact and adaptation. Plus, we dive into today’s hot topics:

This week’s podcast explores diverse themes: Queensland’s outback challenges Google Maps’ reliability, DC’s latest Superman film details, BBC’s AI marketing mishap with Doctor Who, the AI controversy in 'Late Night with the Devil’, Leonard Teale’s legacy as the Aussie Superman5, and the storytelling craft of inciting incidents.

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Exploring the world of gaming, where DOOM, the classic FPS, has been transformed into an audio spectrogram experience. We navigate the complex legal skies of anime streaming. The legendary Macross series is finally landing on Disney+, but not without its caveats. Step into the past with us as we discuss the restoration of the iconic 1940s Superman shorts by Fleischer Studios. Ending with the tale of Leonard Teale, who brought Superman to life on Australian radio in the late '40s. We’ll delve into the history of this unique adaptation and its significance in Australian pop culture.

We discuss the historical accuracy and creative liberties in the different adaptations of “Shogun”. The 1975 novel by James Clavell, the 1980s miniseries, and the 2024 FX show all offer varying depictions of feudal Japan and the rise of the Tokugawa shogunate. The adaptations reflect the cultural and historical perspectives of the times they were created in, with the latest FX show aiming to present a more balanced view by incorporating significant Japanese dialogue and perspectives.

Links

We dive into how Doom, the classic shooter game, has been ported to run on a $2,000+ lawnmower. Now you can literally mow down demons while keeping your lawn tidy. We then unravel a vending machine mishap that exposed a secret database of college students’ faces, raising questions about privacy and the pervasive reach of facial recognition. We also recount the curious case of parents duped by AI-generated images of a Wonka-like event, leading to a less-than-magical reality and a call to the cops. Finally, we tune into some musical missteps, highlighting five famous songs that made it to the final...

Dive into the latest digital dilemmas and pop culture phenomena in this week’s podcast. We’ll unpack Google’s pause on Gemini’s AI-generated images amid diversity debacles, analyze how ‘Helldivers 2’ is reviving interest in ‘Starship Troopers’, and marvel at how Andrew Dice Clay’s flop ‘The Adventures of Ford Fairlane’ became an unexpected hit in Hungary. Tune in for a blend of tech insights and entertainment oddities!

Links

In this episode, we explore the ‘Animedoro’ technique for boosting productivity and relaxation, delve into Australia’s most agonizing critters, and examine the evolving Australian accents influenced by region, age, and culture.

Links

The ‘Animedoro’ Method Can Make You More Productive and Give You More Downtime | Lifehacker

Australia's most painful creatures - ABC News

Australian accents are changing across different regions, generations, and cultures - ABC News

This episode first Broadcast on Edge Radio, 9th February 2024.

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every Friday 4-5pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time...

Join me in this week’s episode as I chat with Daniel Brooks and Edward Williams, two talented film makers who are working on a new indie film project. They share their insights, challenges, and inspirations behind their creative process. We also dive into the topics of cinematography and world-building and explore how they use these elements to craft compelling stories. To learn more, check out the links below to some of the ‘Film Courage’ interviews we referenced. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves film and wants to discover the secrets behind the scenes.

Links<...

In this week's episode, we delve deep into the world of gaming and sci-fi. First, we explore the fascinating story of a Modder who transformed Mortal Kombat 1 into a gory and twisted Dreamworks vs Pixar bloodbath. Then, we dive into the controversial world of Doctor Who as we continue our discussion of Den of Geek's top 50 controversies. Join us as we uncover the secrets of Doctor Who's rich history and explore the most scandalous moments in this iconic sci-fi series. So, gear up for a thrilling ride and tune in to our latest podcast episode now! 

Links Duration: 00:45:50

We dive deeper into the world of Doctor Who with our special guest, Marcus Johnson. He is a true Whovian who knows everything there is to know about the show and its controversies. We also bring you the hottest news and updates from the media culture scene, How to watch the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the perfect order, as revealed by Disney+. The surprising video of Brian Cox, the star of Succession, telling the story of Tekken. The amazing feat of a YouTuber who built a working Nintendo PlayStation. We end the episode by going through more of Den o...

We dive into the controversies surrounding the beloved TV show Dr Who as it celebrates its 60th anniversary with three special episodes and a new Doctor. We discuss the BBC's response to criticisms of the show's alleged "woke propaganda" and inclusion of LGBTQ+ and non-binary characters and themes. We also explore the show's partnership with Disney and its streaming on Disney+ outside of the U.K. Additionally. Join us as we dissect these hot topics and also cover the latest news, including Public Domain Day, Mickey Mouse entering the Public Domain, media panic about a teenage Tetris wiz, and...

Do you love board games? Do you want to learn more about the different genres, styles and strategies of this hobby? Then tune in to this episode of Boardgaming Bonanza, where host Craig Norris chats with two avid board gamers: Travis Deverell (Shirtaloon) and Peter Wills. They share their passion, insights, and tips on everything in board gaming, from Euro games to Ameritrash, from co-op to competitive, and from classics to new releases. You’ll hear about their personal experiences, challenges and highlights of playing board games, as well as their favourite games and recommendations. You’ll also discover how...

In this episode (originally broadcast on 28 Jan 2021), we talk with Travis Deverell (Shirtaloon), the author of the creative fiction series He Who Fights With Monsters, and Peter Wills. Deverell shares his journey of taking his series from online platforms like Royalroad and Scribblehub to Amazon, where he worked with Podium to publish his audiobook and ebook versions. This was a pivotal moment for the series, which has since gained worldwide popularity and acclaim. You will learn how he made the transition to a wider and larger audience, and what advice he has for other authors who want to do...

In this episode, we explore the fascinating intersections of media, culture, and technology through four recent media news stories. How Sega paid tribute to the fallen heroes and villains of the Yakuza and Like a Dragon series in a solemn ceremony. How a botched legal document by Donald Trump’s lawyer sparked speculation of AI involvement and plagiarism. How the GTA 6 trailer revived the popularity of a classic Tom Petty song on Spotify and what it means for the music industry. How Behaviour Interactive created a thrilling and immersive horror game with Dead by Daylight, featuring some of the mo...

Author Travis Deverell (Shirtaloon), the creator of the hit series ‘He Who Fights with Monsters’, and Peter Wills talk with Craig Norris to explore the fascinating worlds of Isekai and LitRPG. Learn how to build your audience and improve your writing skills on platforms like Royal Road, Scribblehub, Discord, and Patreon. Don’t miss this lively conversation about writing, gaming, and the influence of media on our lives. This episode was first broadcast on January 21st, 2021.

Listen live to “Media Mothership” every Friday 4-5pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time) via YouTube, Twitch, and Edge Radio.

Support th...

Join us as we dive into the world of gaming and explore the fascinating universe of multiplayer survival horror video game Dead by Daylight. We analyse the IGN interview with Behaviour Interactive on their approach to adapting iconic horror villains into their game - Dead by Daylight. From their creative adaptation of original characters to the use of iconic characters from horror films like Michael Myers, we hear about it all. We also bring you some interesting news from the gaming world - from Zack Snyder's obsession with Fortnite to Skyrim players finding emotional ways to retire their characters...

We explore the world of video game adaptations and examine both successful and unsuccessful examples in the industry. We'll analyse a fascinating paper titled 'From Multimodal Storytelling to Polymorphic Fictions: Beyond Multimedia and Narratology' by Christy Dena. We'll apply this to two video game adaptations: the latest Walking Dead game and Scarface: The World is Yours. We'll discuss the strengths and weaknesses of these games and how they have contributed to arguments around storytelling in the gaming industry. But wait, there's more! We'll look at the latest news, including a story claiming that Aardman Animation, the creator of Wallace...

Learn about how AirTags have become an increasingly popular tool for law enforcement agencies to tackle car thefts. We also discuss the recent case of a New South Wales police officer who received a sentence for pointing a gun towards a colleague over Top Gun: Maverick spoilers.  We also explore the world of gaming activism to examine how gamers on platforms such as Roblox, Final Fantasy, and The Sims are leveraging virtual worlds to push for social and environmental change. As well as PC game modding and how game developers like Capcom are grappling with the issue of offensive a...

In this episode, I talk to Bliss Sandhu, a PhD candidate and a Technical Officer at The Media School, University of Tasmania, about his fascinating research on ephemeral communication. Ephemeral communication is the use of platforms like Snapchat and Instagram Stories that allow users to share content that disappears after a short time. Bliss explains how this type of communication affects the way people perceive and interact with the environment, based on his preliminary data analysis. He also shares some tips on how to deal with technical glitches in the field, and gives his opinion on the controversial topic...

In this episode, we learn from two successful indie filmmakers who have overcome the challenges of making films with limited funds. They discuss their strategies and best practices for pre-production, location hunting, and film making on a budget.

You can find out more about their latest film project here: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.brooks.50999405

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Do you love video games? Do you love challenges? Do you love breaking the rules? Then you’ll love this episode of our podcast, where we talk to Nikita Riseley, who attended the PAX convention and saw some of the amazing games and gadgets on display and participating in the BackPocket ‘pocketeers’ community. We also dive into the weird and wonderful world of video game challenges, where players impose their own rules and restrictions on how they play their favorite games. From the deadly Nuzlocke Challenge in Pokémon to the creepy horror-themed islands in Animal Crossing, we explore how the...

Join us for a fun and geeky conversation with Marcus Johnson, the pop culture quiz master who knows everything about Doctor Who. We discuss the best way to watch the iconic sci-fi series, from the classic to the modern episodes. We also compare Doctor Who with other popular franchises, such as Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Plus, we explore the latest trend of ‘silent walking’ on TikTok and what it reveals about our society.

LINKS:

Why is the 1948 radio drama “The Thing on the Fourble Board” widely regarded as one of the best radio horror stories ever produced? We analyze how the story uses first-person narration, themes of isolation and madness, the unreliable narrator and the impact of voice acting, music and pacing to create a vivid and immersive atmosphere that terrifies and fascinates listeners.
We also discuss two intriguing news stories of how media can shape our perception of reality: Scientists use Age of Empires computer game to simulate ant warfare - ABC News, and Saw X's Editor Had the Cops Called on H...

Interview with Sues Cummings, the author of the Silent Trilogy, an urban fantasy series set in Hobart. We’ll discuss how she created her ‘X-Men meets Good Omens’ magical world, her journey as a writer, and how she got her books published. To learn more about Sues Cummings and her work, you can check out these links:
Patreon
Twitter
Instagram
Amazon
I hope you’ll join me for this exciting conversation.

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We chat with the filmmakers, Daniel Brooks and Edward Williams, about their indie film, “The Bin of Despondency”. They share with us their creative process, their struggles, and their influences. This is a fascinating conversation that will make you laugh and think!
“The Bin of Despondency” is a witty satire of the self-help industry and the quest for success. It follows Patrick, a grumpy aspiring filmmaker, who buys a self-help book called “Success & You” after a series of failures. His old film-making partner is not impressed by his new obsession. Along the way, Patrick encounters various characters who are also loo...

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr Emerald King, a lecturer in Humanities at the University of Tasmania, who shares her research on cosplay, and recent selection to represent Australia at the 2024 cosplay world championships. She tells us how cosplay is more than just dressing up, but also a form of cultural expression and identity. We also talk about some of the latest media culture news, such as:

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Bliss Sandhu, a PhD candidate at the University of Tasmania’s School of Creative Arts and Media. Bliss is researching how ephemeral communication, such as Snapchat and Instagram stories, influences the way people represent and relate to the environment. He will share his findings and insights on how these forms of communication can have a passive influence on environmental awareness and behaviour. We will also explore topics such as the dominant ideology of Tasmania, the challenges and opportunities of environmental communication, and the future of narrative-based content creation for personalised consumption. Don’t mi...

Join us today as we chat with the brilliant minds behind the indie film ‘Just Humans’, a heartwarming story of a young man’s adventures and misadventures in his first year of university. ‘Just Humans’ is a proud product of Big Love Productions, an independent Tasmanian film company that showcases local talent, music, and locations. Our guests today are Eilidh Direen, the writer and director of the film, Daniel Brooks, the assistant director and production manager, and Edward Williams, the cinematographer and technical supervisor. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from these amazing filmmakers and learn more about their creati...

Get ready for another thrilling episode of Media Mothership, where we dive deep into the hottest topics and trends in media and culture. In this episode, we explore the Barbenheimer phenomenon, a viral sensation that has sparked debates behind its Wikipedia page, and how it reflects the immediacy and pitfalls of online trends.We also interview Sophia Staite, a PhD graduate from the University of Tasmania and expert on the Japanese tokusatsu genre, which features superheroes, monsters, and special effects. She tells us all about Kamen Rider, one of the most popular and influential tokusatsu series of all time...

Do you want to discover how old radio show’s captivated listeners from the first second? Then tune in to today’s episode of Media Mothership, where we continue our exploration of the secrets of crafting irresistible intros from some of the classic radio shows of the past. We’ll analyse how shows like Gangbusters, Escape, Duffy’s Tavern, and The Fat Man hooked their audiences with suspense, humour, mystery, and intrigue. Plus, we’ll catch up on the latest news in the music and radio industry, including the spooky story behind Taylor Swift’s latest vinyl album release, the alarming...

Join us for another episode of Media Mothership, where we explore the weird and wonderful world of news and entertainment. In this episode, we cover topics such as:

How maps of the South China Sea and Barbie dolls are connected to the K-pop sensation BlackPink
How talking plant pots can make your plants happier and healthier
How Diablo IV is bringing back the rat loot system and what it means for gamers
How Red Dead Redemption lets you experience the most mundane jobs of the wild west

We also continue our series...

In this episode of Media Mothership find out why Australians are hooked on podcasts, how a video game challenge could outlast human civilization, and how a classic radio drama series Escape mastered the art of suspense (see previous eps on The Fat Man, Gangbusters and Duffy's Tavern). Tune in and don’t miss this thrilling ride!

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We learn from more classic radio intros, like Duffy’s Tavern, a hilarious 1940s comedy. And we spice it up with our own Media Mothership twist. Plus, we talk about the latest media buzz: AI art, coding books in jail, and more. Tune in and join the fun! Media Mothership: How Media Shapes Our Reality | Edge Radio

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Hear how AI is recreating creative work. Then, we'll take you back in time to the golden age of radio and show you how to craft a captivating intro for radio. We'll use the example of "The Fat Man", a popular detective series that aired in the US and Australia in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

Media Mothership: How Media Shapes Our Reality | Edge Radio

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Join Dr Craig and Lord Taylor on Media Mothership, a podcast that explores how media shapes our understanding of the world. From horror games to anime films to Chinese Idol-singers, they cover the latest news and share their insights on media culture. Listen to their experimental audio pieces that will hook you in and thrill you. Don't miss this episode of Media Mothership!

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We discuss the latest media & tech news stories, such as AI regulation, chatbot blunders, love letters to trees, K-pop stars, and the attention span myth. Plus, we experiment with writing a catchy radio show intro that grabs listeners' attention and sets the show tone.

www.mediamothership.com.au

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First Broadcast on Edge Radio 26 Nov 2020, 4pm. Craig Norris talks with illustrator & world-builder ‘Hobart Phillips’ and the process of building the fictional country of Vekllei, his approach to world-building, utopianism and the encyclopedic forensic fandom around his work.

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Stories can help us make sense of the world around us. What makes certain stories so appealing and effective? In this episode, we (mis)use Christopher Booker's (2004) The Seven Basic Plots to analyse some news articles and show you how to use storytelling to your advantage. www.mediamothership.au

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What are cultural intermediaries and how do they influence the tastes and preferences of the public? And how do K-pop fans act as cultural intermediaries by creating and sharing content, translating and explaining K-pop culture, and advocating for their favourite artists? Craig Norris talks with Taylor Lidstone about his recently completed Honours research project titled 'Cultural Intermediaries in K-Pop' at the The Media School, University of Tasmania.
The episode first aired on Edge Radio 99.3FM, Thu 19 Nov 2020.

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