Z Listers

Season

2025

0

Z Listers is an engaging and candid round-table discussion that peels back the glamorous facade of Hollywood exploring the realities of the film industry, reminiscent of The Actors Roundtable, Close/Up, and Variety's Actors on Actors.

Episode List

S1 • E1

The Spielberg Effect

Z Listers host, Kristin Kirkley kicks off the series with a deep dive into the monumental impact of Steven Spielberg on the film industry. Joined by producer Dave Honaker, actress Tamara Johnson, camera assistant Rinny Wilson, and actor Lance Lemon, the panel reflects on Spielberg's unparalleled career, from his groundbreaking storytelling to his revolutionary techniques behind the camera. Through engaging anecdotes and thoughtful discussion, the group explores how Spielberg's legacy has shaped their own creative journeys and continues to influence the art of filmmaking today. With humor, insight, and heartfelt admiration, it sets the tone for an inspiring season of candid conversations about cinema's greatest icons.

S1 • E2

The Tarantino Touch

In this exciting follow-up episode of Z Listers, host Kristin Kirkley leads a lively discussion about the bold and boundary-pushing films of Quentin Tarantino. With producer Dave Honaker, actress Tamara Johnson, camera assistant Rinny Wilson, and actor Lance Lemon at the table, the group explores Tarantino's unmistakable style-from his sharp dialogue to his love for cinematic nostalgia-and his influence on storytelling in modern cinema. Sharing personal connections to Tarantino's work and dissecting their favorite scenes, the panel dives into what makes his films unforgettable. Packed with humor, passion, and a touch of controversy, this episode delivers a spirited homage to one of Hollywood's most daring filmmakers.

S1 • E3

Spike Lee's Vision

Z Listers host, Kristin Kirkley and her panel take a closer look at the groundbreaking career of Spike Lee. Joined by director of photography Ginna Lambert, actress Dawn Douglas, wardrobe stylist Amelia Zontini, and actor Lance Lemon, the discussion explores Lee's innovative approach to storytelling, his fearless tackling of social issues, and his lasting impact on both independent and mainstream cinema. The group reflects on the cultural significance of his films, their favorite moments, and the way Lee's bold visual style has influenced their work. Honest, insightful, and thought-provoking, this episode pays tribute to a true cinematic trailblazer.

S1 • E4

The Bigelow Legacy

In this episode of Z Listers, host Kristin Kirkley guides a compelling discussion on the groundbreaking work of Kathryn Bigelow, the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director. Joined by director of photography Ginna Lambert, actress Dawn Douglas, wardrobe stylist Amelia Zontini, and actor Lance Lemon, the panel explores Bigelow's fearless storytelling, her mastery of tension, and her influence on women in filmmaking. From The Hurt Locker to Zero Dark Thirty, the group shares insights into how Bigelow's bold approach has redefined action and drama on screen. Inspiring and reflective, this episode celebrates the legacy of a director who shattered barriers and set new standards in Hollywood.

S1 • E5

Jeff Nichols: A Voice of the South

Z Listers host, Kristin Kirkley and her panel delve into the evocative storytelling of director Jeff Nichols. Joined by director of photography Ginna Lambert, actress Dawn Douglas, wardrobe stylist Amelia Zontini, and actor Lance Lemon, the conversation focuses on Nichols' unique ability to capture the essence of Southern life through deeply personal narratives and striking visuals. From Mud to Loving, the group discusses his understated yet powerful approach to character-driven filmmaking and how his work resonates with audiences and filmmakers alike. Warm and insightful, this episode highlights the artistry of a director whose films leave a lasting impression.

S1 • E6

The Twist of M. Night

In this intriguing episode of Z Listers, host Kristin Kirkley leads a discussion about the career of M. Night Shyamalan, the master of the unexpected twist. Joined by producer Dave Honaker, actress Tamara Johnson, camera assistant Rinny Wilson, and actor Lance Lemon, the panel explores Shyamalan's distinctive style, from his ability to craft suspenseful narratives to his innovative use of storytelling techniques. The group reflects on his unforgettable films like The Sixth Sense and The Last Airbender, sharing their thoughts on how Shyamalan's work has influenced their perspectives on filmmaking and storytelling. Thoughtful and engaging, this episode examines the impact of a director who consistently challenges audiences to see beyond the ordinary.

S1 • E7

The Genius of Christopher Nolan

In this episode of Z Listers, host Kristin Kirkley and her panel dive into the mind-bending brilliance of Christopher Nolan. Joined by director of photography Ginna Lambert, actress Dawn Douglas, wardrobe stylist Amelia Zontini, and actor Lance Lemon, the discussion explores Nolan's unparalleled ability to merge complex storytelling with stunning visuals. From Inception to Interstellar, the group unpacks the themes, techniques, and cinematic magic that define his work, while sharing how his films have influenced their own creative paths. Deeply reflective and inspiring, this episode celebrates a director who continually redefines the boundaries of modern filmmaking.

S1 • E8

The Subtle Art of Sofia Coppola

In the season finale of Z Listers, host Kristin Kirkley and her panel celebrate the understated brilliance of Sofia Coppola. Joined by producer Dave Honaker, actress Tamara Johnson, camera assistant Rinny Wilson, and actor Lance Lemon, the group discusses Coppola's unique approach to storytelling, her masterful use of mood and atmosphere, and her ability to capture the inner lives of her characters. From Lost in Translation to The Virgin Suicides, the panel reflects on the quiet power of her films and how they've shaped their views on storytelling and visual aesthetics. Poignant and thoughtful, this episode closes the season with a tribute to a director who has redefined cinematic intimacy.