Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi

On Byte: Andor, Rebellion, and Realism: What Makes This Star Wars Story Hit Different

From Star Wars Celebration, we unpack why Andor has become a breakout favorite—not just among fans, but among creators too. This isn’t your typical Star Wars tale. It’s grounded. It’s gritty. And it’s full of slow-burn tension that pays off in major ways. Interviews include Diego Luna, Denise Gough, Genevieve O’Reilly , and more of the cast. Plus showrunner Tony Gilroy gives his thoughts on the experience.

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Time Capsule 411: Exploring Sci-Fi Craft: From Silo’s Set to Invincible’s Sound and Dark Matter’s Worlds

Welcome to another episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, In this Time Capsule edition, we kick things off with Nicole Northridge, the talented production designer for "Silo" Season 2, as she reveals the secrets to building the rich, atmospheric environments that define the series—including the art of transforming a set to create an entirely new silo.

Next, we dive into the world of animation sound with Brad Meyer and Jeff Shiffman, the masterminds behind the audio of "Invincible" Season 2. From seamlessly integrating subtle city sounds to crafting powerful emotional moments, they share how sound shapes the storytelling experience.

We then shift dimensions with John Heller, visual effects supervisor for "Dark Matter," who unpacks the creative challenges of designing unique alternate worlds and ensuring each universe has its own distinct look and feel.

Rounding out the episode, Janine Mason joins us to discuss giving voice and emotional depth to Eva Nine in "Wandla," capturing the innocence and savvy that endear her character to fans of all ages.

Finally, we spotlight a deeply personal cause as "Star Trek" favorites John Billingsley, Jonathan Frakes, and Armin Shimerman, Juan Carlos Coto, and Kitty Winn reflect on their experiences with pancreatic cancer and the importance of community and support through the Purple Stride Walk.

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Explore Weekly: Star Wars: Starfighter Unveiled, Supergirl Movie Wraps, The Last of Us Heartbreak

Welcome to a brand new episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi. On this week’s Explore Weekly, an episode is packed with exciting headlines—most notably, a rundown of the newly announced Star Wars projects revealed at Star Wars Celebration in Tokyo, including a standalone Star Wars Starfighter movie starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Shawn Levy, as well as updates on other anticipated films and series set in the galaxy far, far away. You’ll also hear reviews and previews from across the genre spectrum, including a look at Andor Season 2, the upcoming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow film, and an insightful review of the unique Cinderella retelling, The Ugly Stepsister. Plus, there’s fresh casting news for the animated Animal Farm adaptation, updates on the next Godzilla vs. Kong sequel, and a detailed discussion on the heart-stopping twist in HBO’s The Last of Us. The episode wraps up with insights on Alexander Skarsgård’s new role in Murderbot, a nostalgic ranking of performances in John Carpenter’s The Thing, and lots more. 

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Inside Surreal Estate: Tennille Read Unpacks Haunted Houses, On-Set Bonds, and Flirting With the Paranormal

Welcome to another episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi. Today, we’re taking you back to season one of Surreal Estate, the hit SyFy series that puts a supernatural spin on haunted house real estate. Host Tony Tellado sits down with special guest Tennille Read, who played Megan Donovan, a pragmatic and skeptical med student who inherits a mysteriously haunted house with a life of its own. Tennille dives into what it was like bringing Megan to life—a character torn between logic and the paranormal—as she navigates spooky occurrences, a tangled love life, and a not-so-average real estate agent, Luke Roman.

Tennille shares behind-the-scenes stories about the striking set, working opposite Tim Rozon, and how the show skillfully blends horror, humor, and genuine heart. We also get an insider peek at on-set special effects, the challenges of filming during the height of COVID-19 in the hauntingly beautiful St. John’s, Newfoundland, and teases about Megan’s journey as she confronts both haunted hallways and her own personal crossroads. 

 

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The Inner Light’s Lasting Legacy: Reflections with Star Trek’s Richard Riehle

Welcome to Trek Tuesday on Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where I dive deep into all things Star Trek.  In this episode, host Tony Tellado celebrates one of the most beloved Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes—“The Inner Light.” Partly inspired by a George Harrison Beatles song and rooted in Taoist philosophy, “The Inner Light” takes Captain Picard on a powerful journey as he lives 4o years of the life of the scientist Kamin.

Joining Tony is actor Richard Riehle, known for playing Kamin’s close friend Batai , who shares behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this iconic episode, his experiences working alongside Patrick Stewart, and the camaraderie built on set. Richard also reminisces about his time on Star Trek: Voyager and the unforgettable moments he shared with the cast. Plus, we reflect on the legacy of Picard’s Ressikan flute and “The Inner Light’s” lasting impact on Star Trek fans and the franchise as a whole. 

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From Nuclear Paranoia to Giant Ants: Revisiting the Classic Sci-Fi Film Them

Welcome to today’s episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi,  where I dive deep into the world of science fiction to understand ourselves a little better. In this special installment, I take us on a nostalgic journey back to the atomic age with a spotlight on the classic 1954 film, Them. Against the backdrop of 1950s nuclear paranoia, Them pits humanity against giant, mutated ants in a chilling cautionary tale about the unintended consequences of nuclear testing. We’ll explore the film’s plot, its standout cast—featuring names like James Whitmore, James Arness, and even a young Leonard Nimoy—and the pioneering production techniques that brought these monstrous creatures to life before the age of CGI. We’ll also uncover fascinating behind-the-scenes details, discuss the film’s critical reception and lasting legacy, and trace its influence on everything from Japanese kaiju flicks to modern video games and pop culture.

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Ryan Coogler on Sinners: Crafting a Love Letter to Cinema and Musical Legacy

Today, we dive behind the scenes of "Sinners" with its visionary writer, producer, and director, Ryan Coogler. Coogler shares how this film serves as his personal love letter to cinema, weaving together life lessons and his own journey into fatherhood and self-discovery. We'll hear about the casting challenges, including how newcomer Miles Caton, landed the pivotal role of Sammie, and why Michael B. Jordan’s dual performance as twins breaks new ground in his career. Plus, Coogler reveals the deep collaboration with composer Ludwig Goranson and the emotional resonance of filming on location in Mississippi. Discover why "Sinners" is being shot in IMAX, and how Coogler’s unique vision is elevating overlooked stories and voices to larger-than-life status on the big screen. Stay tuned as we uncover the artistry and passion fueling one of the year's most anticipated movies.

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Inside the Making of Sinners: Michael B. Jordan Talks Twins, Trauma, and Transformation

Michael B. Jordan to discuss his adventurous dual role as twins in the film “Smoke and Stack” in Sinners. Michael shares the creative process behind bringing two very different brothers to life, from using music and movement to embodying contrasting personalities. He also opens up about the emotional toll and rewarding collaboration with longtime friend and director Ryan Coogler, and how a unique approach to music on set brought the film’s world to life. Get ready for an inside look at a project that pushes boundaries and promises to take audiences on a real ride.

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Purple Stride with Trek Stars: Research, Resilience, and Building Supportive Communities

Welcome to the latest episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where we dive into a special cause close to the heart of these Star Trek actors raising awareness and funds in the fight against pancreatic cancer. This episode brings together an extraordinary panel: Team Trek captain Kitty Swink, her husband Armin Shimerman, Jonathan Frakes, John Billingsly, and Juan Carlos Coto, joined by host Tony Tellado. They share a candid and heartfelt conversation about their personal experiences with pancreatic cancer, the progress being made in research and patient care, and the power of coming together—whether it's at the annual Purple Stride walk or by supporting Pancan.org online. You'll hear stories of loss, hope, community, and the drive to make a difference, not only for those battling pancreatic cancer but also for families and caregivers. The team discusses advancements like robotic Whipple surgery, the importance of early detection, and how organizations like PanCAN are changing the landscape through research and support. It’s an episode filled with warmth, humor, advocacy, and an unbreakable sense of camaraderie. So whether you’re a Trek fan, someone touched by cancer, or simply inspired by people uniting for a good cause, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

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Sci-Fi Castings and Predictions for 2025 Emmy Awards On This Week's Explore Weekly

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Sci-Fi Talk Plus,with this episode, of Explore Weekly for April 17, 2025, packed with the latest news from around the internet. We'll kick things off with the latest updates on popular shows like "The Last of Us," which has seen a significant uptick in viewers for its second season. We'll also share some exciting casting news, including "Black Phone 2" adding Anna Law to its lineup and "Godzilla X Kong" welcoming Alicia Debnam Carey to the Monsterverse.. I dive into Emmy predictions for 2025, discuss the buzzing sequel to "Black Mirror: USS Callister," and hear from actors like Paul Giamatti and Will Poulter on their roles in the acclaimed "Black Mirror" series. Plus, get the scoop on  comics, including Zack Snyder's "Rebel Moon" prequel and Doctor Who's "Robot Revolution."season debut. Finally, we'll say goodbye to Diego Luna as he wraps up his iconic role in "Andor" and revisit some surprising actors who graced the "Star Wars" universe. Tune in to explore the stories and characters that capture our imaginations and shape our understanding of what it means to be human.

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