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The Shame List Picture Show
The Shame List Picture Show
Author: Michael Viers
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The Shame List Picture Show is a podcast that connects movie-loving filmmakers and close friends Michael Viers and, until early 2023, Nick Richards. The show began with their discussions about their “shame lists”—films they felt they should have seen but hadn’t. Since Nick’s departure, Michael has continued the podcast, now featuring guests from all walks of life on each episode to discuss films from their own shame lists. Tune in to hear Michael and his diverse guests explore a wide variety of important and intriguing movies, sharing their unique perspectives and insights along the way.
199 Episodes
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Season 9, Episode 20 (Originally released on December 24th, 2025)
Hello and welcome to our annual Christmas celebration of The Shame List Picture Show. A Christmas episode has been a tradition since the show’s very first season, and Nick and Michael both felt it was important to keep that tradition alive. It’s the signal that one season is ending, but another is just around the corner.
This week, Michael is joined by SLPS co-creator Nick Richard, along with a very special guest: Alonso Duralde. In addition to being a film critic and podcaster, Alonso is a devoted Christmas movie lover, and his book Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas has just been reissued in a brand-new, updated edition. Together, we cover a wide range of topics, including the Hallmark/Netflix cycle of Christmas films, what actually makes a movie a Christmas movie, our favorite holiday films, and—of course—the eternal question: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?
Be sure to check out the newest edition of Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas, and please have a wonderful and safe holiday.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 19 (Originally released on December 18th, 2025)
Hello and welcome to another episode of The Shame List Picture Show. Today, Jason Hillman returns to the pod to talk Frankenstein — not just Guillermo del Toro’s latest opus, but the monster and myth across its many adaptations. Michael and Jason wax philosophically on what works (and doesn’t) in Frankenstein on film. Spoiler: Michael is far more forgiving than Jason. One point of total agreement, however, is their shared love for Kenneth Branagh’s Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. We dig into all of it.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 18 (Originally released on December 9th, 2025)
Hello and welcome to another episode of the Shame List Picture Show. Today, I’m joined by journalist, critic, and actor Mack Bates to talk about Stephen Frears’ neo-noir classic The Grifters.
In this episode, we dig into the incredible chemistry between the cast, Mack’s personal history with both the film and the novel it’s based on, and take a deep dive into all the gritty, razor-sharp details that make this story endure.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 17 (Originally released on November 24th, 2025)
Welcome back to another episode of the Shame List Picture Show! This time, Michael is joined by his life partner, Amanda Viers, to discuss all things Hooptober. Hooptober, for those unfamiliar, is a horror-themed movie-watching challenge in which participants aim to watch 31 horror films that meet a set of specific criteria. Created by Letterboxd user Cinemonster, this is its twelfth year, and Michael and Amanda’s first time participating.
In this episode, they break down the challenge, the films they watched, how they made their selections, and any obstacles that came up along the way. It’s a loose, freewheeling conversation and a lot of fun.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 16 (Originally Released on October 30th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show. Today, I’m joined by comedian, filmmaker, and host of the long-running podcast It’s Always Halloween, Lucé Tomlin-Brenner. Lucé’s deep love for classic horror and appreciation for the macabre make her the perfect guest to join me in revisiting Alejandro Amenábar’s The Others — a Gothic ghost story steeped in atmosphere, grief, and faith.
In this episode, we’ll dig into what defines Gothic horror and why The Others stands as one of the last great studio ghost films of its era. We’ll talk about Amenábar’s inspirations, the film’s critical and box office success, and the enduring emotional weight of Nicole Kidman’s performance. So light a few candles, draw the curtains, and join us as we wander through the fog and shadows of The Others.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 15 (Originally Released on October 13th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show. On this episode, I’m joined by photographer/filmmaker/renaissance man and returning guest Jason Hillman to talk about Paul Thomas Anderson’s newest film, One Battle After Another.
Jason and I delve into how this film fits within Anderson’s body of work, its striking portrayal of modern disillusionment, and the ways it both builds upon and challenges his signature style. We also discuss performances, skills, and why this might be one of PTA’s most personal films.
If you’re a fan of There Will Be Blood or The Master, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 14 (Originally released on September 8th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show. On this episode, I’m joined by Nick Richards, former co-host of the show. After a recent meeting with John Waters, Nick and I decided it was the perfect time to sit down for a Waters double feature.
We’re talking about Cry-Baby (1990) and Serial Mom (1994). Cry-Baby is Waters’ take on 1950s teen rebel movies, starring Johnny Depp as a leather-jacketed heartthrob. Serial Mom features Kathleen Turner as Beverly Sutphin, a seemingly perfect suburban mom with a very dark secret.
Nick and I get into what makes these two films stand out in Waters’ career, how they balance camp and satire, and why his work continues to leave such a lasting impression.
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Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 13 (Originally released on Aug. 24th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show. On this episode, I’m joined by Ross Bigley, filmmaker and founder of the Milwaukee Short Film Festival. Ross has been a part of Milwaukee’s film community for years, both through his own work and by creating a space for independent filmmakers to share their stories.
We’re taking a look at Alfred Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief from 1955. Cary Grant plays John Robie, a retired jewel thief living in the French Riviera who finds himself under suspicion when a wave of burglaries breaks out. Grace Kelly appears as Francie, a young heiress who might be onto him—or maybe just intrigued by him.
Ross and I discuss the film’s blend of romance and suspense, the chemistry between its stars, and how it reflects Hitchcock’s style at that point in his career. We also take some time to step back and discuss Hitchcock’s work and influence more broadly.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 12 (Originally released on Aug. 11th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show! On this episode, Michael is joined by Derek Pfister, an award-winning Milwaukee-based cinematographer, editor, and founder of Chair on Stair Films. With over 20 years behind the camera, Derek’s work includes the Cannes-screened Reasonable Doubt and the documentary series The Next Frame.
Today, we’re talking about Sidney Pollack’s 1977 drama Bobby Deerfield. Al Pacino plays a cool, calculated Formula One driver whose confidence takes a hit after a teammate’s brutal crash. Not long after, he meets Lillian (Marthe Keller), a free-spirited woman who pulls him into an unexpected romance. Instead of adrenaline-fueled action, this one focuses on mood, atmosphere, and quiet moments.
Michael and Derek dig into the film’s slow-burn style, its melancholy beauty, and whether it’s a forgotten gem or a product of its time.
You can find more information about Chair on Stair at: https://www.chaironstairfilms.com/
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 11 (Originally Released on July 23rd, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show! On this episode, Michael is joined by a very special guest: Jason Hillman. Jason is a photographer, writer, comedian, and longtime friend of the show who’s stepping back into the guest chair to knock a big title off Michael’s shame list.
Today, we’re diving into Baz Luhrmann’s bold, stylish, and divisive 1996 adaptation of Romeo + Juliet. From Leonardo DiCaprio’s brooding charm to Claire Danes’ heartfelt delivery and, of course, the machine guns labeled “Sword”, this is Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it before.
Join Michael and Jason as they unpack the film’s kinetic energy, modern aesthetics, and emotional highs (and lows), and debate whether this reimagining still holds up or drowns in its own ambition. Light a candle, cue the Radiohead, and enjoy this star-crossed episode.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 10 (Originally Released on June 27th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show! On this episode, Michael is joined by a very special guest: Lynne Fraser. Not only is Lynne the founder of the video company Ski Team, but she’s also the lucky winner of a guest spot on this very show, thanks to our wonderful friends at Milwaukee Film.
During this past festival, Milwaukee Film held a special silent auction to raise funds, and a guest appearance on Shame List Picture Show was one of the items up for bid. Lynne came out on top, and today we’re finally crossing a doozy off her shame list: The Silence of the Lambs.
Sit back and relax as Lynne and Michael discuss all things Hannibal Lecter—from Lynne’s storied history of not seeing the film to how it holds up through a contemporary lens. Have a friend over for dinner, and get ready to enjoy an incredible episode.
For more information on Ski Team, make sure to check them out at https://goskiteam.com/
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 9 (Originally released on June 11th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show. In this episode, we’re cracking open The Shawshank Redemption, and we’re thrilled to be joined by the thoughtful and passionate Robyn Ehrlich. Those who tuned into our Waiting for Guffman episode will remember that Robyn is more than just a cinephile—she’s also the communications and public relations coordinator at Milwaukee Film.
Together, we’ll be delving deep into Frank Darabont’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novella, breaking down its themes, the film’s theatrical history and home video renaissance, and its lasting legacy, with powerful reflections on hope, friendship, and what it means to be free.
For more information on Milwaukee Film’s Summer Camp line-up of films, be sure to check out www.mkefilm.org/summer-camp
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 8 (Originally Released on May 28th, 2025)
Welcome to another episode of the Shame List Picture Show! In this episode, Michael is joined by his beautiful and talented wife, Amanda, to discuss their coverage of the 2025 Milwaukee Film Festival.
The festival was an incredible two-week experience. Here’s a brief overview of the films we’ll be discussing: The Shrouds (Cronenberg), AJ Goes to the Dog Park (Jones), Desperately Seeking Susan (Seidelman), Two Women (Robichaud), Four Mothers (Thornton), Black Dog (Hu), Bad Shabbos (Robbins), How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (Boonnitipat), The Ugly Stepsister (Blichfeldt), Vulcanizadora (Potrykus), Boys Go to Jupiter (Glander), Jazzy (Maltz), Can I Get a Witness? (Fleming), and Jane Austen Wrecked My Life (Piani).
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 7 (Originally Released on May 14th, 2025)
Welcome back to the Shame List Picture Show. In this episode, we’re diving deep into The Omen, joined by the insightful Cait Dohmeier.
Cait brings more than just fandom to the table. With a BA in History and Religious Studies from Alverno College, an MA in Catholic Theology and Ministry from Catholic Theological Union, and ongoing graduate work in Library and Information Sciences with a focus on Youth Literature at Dominican University, she offers a rich, informed perspective on horror, history, and theology.
Together, we don’t just discuss Richard Donner’s The Omen, we examine it through a theological lens. How accurate is its portrayal of religious themes? What anxieties was it tapping into? You’ll have to listen to find out.
And the discussion doesn’t stop there. We also explore John Moore’s 2006 remake, The Omen, and Arkasha Stevenson’s 2024 prequel, The First Omen, for a full look at this enduring horror franchise.
Three films. One antichrist. Plenty to unpack.
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 6 (Originally released on April 28, 2025)
Hello and welcome to another fabulous episode of The Shame List Picture Show! Today, we won’t be deep diving into a particular film, but we do have a fantastic guest: David Gregory. David is a filmmaker, film historian, and one of the founders of Severin Films. We’ll be talking about how he got started with Severin, how the company has evolved over the years, his filmmaking career, and all things physical media.
Check out Severin online at www.severinfilms.com
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 5 (Originally Released on April 1st, 2025)
Welcome to another episode of the Shame List Picture Show! This week, we’re joined by Austin Proctor, the host of the podcasts Frightmares and All Juice, No Gin, who also happens to be our editor and executive producer. We’re excited to have Austin back to chat about Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash.
In this episode, Austin and I talk about our shared love for music while also diving into Chazelle’s incredible storytelling and his transition from short film to feature. As a musician himself, Austin shares his connection to Whiplash and his perspective on how the life of a musician is portrayed on screen.
You can find more from Austin Proctor at https://linktr.ee/frightmarespodcast
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 4 (Originally Released on March 18th, 2025)
Welcome to another episode of the Shame List Picture Show! This week, we have a very special guest, Susan Kerns, joining Michael to discuss Fabrice-Ange Zaphirato’s Blood Beat. In addition to diving into this wild and fascinating film, we’ll explore our shared love for arthouse horror, bonkers cinema, and Wisconsin-made indie films.
Some of our Shame Listeners may remember Susan for her Ph.D. in Media, Cinema, and Digital Studies from UWM. She is an accomplished filmmaker and scholar, and as of this year, she is the new Executive Director of Milwaukee Film. Don’t miss this exciting conversation packed with passion for unique and unconventional cinema.
For more information on Milwaukee Film be sure to check them out at http://www.mkefilm.org
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 3 (Originally released on March 3rd, 2025)
Welcome to another exciting episode of the Shame List Picture Show! This time, we’re diving into Christopher Guest’s Waiting for Guffman with our special guest, Robyn Ehrlich, Communications and Public Relations Coordinator at Milwaukee Film. Beyond exploring Guest’s brilliant mockumentary, we share our deep love for cinema and discuss what it’s like to build a career centered around film. You won’t want to miss this one!
For more information on Milwaukee Film be sure to check them out at http://www.mkefilm.org
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 2 (Originally released on February 17th, 2025)
Hello, and welcome to another episode of the Shame List Picture Show! This week, I’m joined by Phil Hopkins, a renowned film archivist and the president of the boutique physical media label Film Masters. We discuss a variety of exciting topics, including film preservation, the importance of physical media, and how watching a restored classic can transform your perspective on a film.
See below for some of the fantastic restoration work Phil and his team performed on The Giant Gila Monster.
You can find Film Masters at: https://www.filmmasters.com/
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers
Season 9, Episode 2 (Originally Released on February 3rd, 2025)
Welcome to Season 9 of the Shame List Picture Show! In this episode, we’re diving into Sylvester Stallone’s electrifying sequel Rocky II. Joining me is Austin Proctor. Many of you know him from Frightmares and his past guest appearances on our show, but now you’ll be hearing his name a lot more as he’s officially our new Executive Producer and Editor. We’re beyond excited to have Austin on board and to help him cross Rocky II off his shame list!
Be sure to check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/shamelistpictureshow
Edited by: Austin Proctor
Produced by: Michael Viers
Theme Music by: Austin Proctor
Opening Narration by: Nick Richards
Credits Music by: Ten-Speed
Logo Design by: Amanda Viers



















