Required Watching

In this special capstone episode, we reflect on our month-long journey through the world of Black cinema. This isn't just a recap; it's a personal synthesis of the most powerful and enduring lessons these films have taught me about the art of storytelling.From the pioneers of the 1920s to the worldbuilders of today, this is what Black cinema taught me about what it means to be a filmmaker.THE FOUR LESSONS:Introduction: The End of a JourneyLesson 1: Necessity is a Language, Not a Limitation.Lesson 2: Restraint is a Weapon.Lesson 3: The World is What You Make It.Lesson 4: Your Audience is an Act of Faith.A Mission Statement for the Future.ASKED & ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE:What can filmmakers learn from Black cinema history?What is the importance of Oscar Micheaux?How does Black British cinema use restraint?What is the future of Black genre filmmaking?What makes a powerful story?This episode is the capstone to our entire Black Origins series. Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 In this critical companion to our "Reprogrammers" video, we ask a tough question: If these films were so brilliant, why did it take so long for the industry to recognize them?This is a deep dive into the systems of power, taste, and commerce that shape film history, and a celebration of the masterpieces that were decades ahead of their time.DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:The First Draft of History is Always WrongCase Study: The Snubbing of Do the Right ThingThe Gatekeepers: Who Gets to Fail?Aging Forward: How a Film's Legacy is BuiltWhat "Canonization" Really MeansASKED & ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE:Why was Do the Right Thing controversial in 1989?Why did Daughters of the Dust not get wide distribution?How do films become classics over time?What is the role of the Criterion Collection in film preservation?How does box office failure affect a director's career?To see our formal analysis of these masterpieces, watch "The Black Films That Reprogrammed Cinema"Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this personal episode of the Required Watching podcast, I'm exploring what happens when Black cinema crosses borders. As a Black American living in the UK, I didn't grow up with these stories. I came to them later, and that distance changed how I heard them.This isn't about explaining Black Britain. It's about the profound shift that happens when you stop expecting art to sound like home.CHAPTERS (The Four Acts):Act I: ArrivalAct II: Contrast, Not ComparisonAct III: What Shifted in MeAct IV: Why This Matters for FilmmakersASKED & ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE:What is it like watching Black British film as a Black American?Analysis of Steve McQueen's Small Axe.What are the differences between UK and US Black cinema?How does national identity shape filmmaking?What can filmmakers learn from different cultural styles?To see the formal analysis that inspired this reflection, watch our video "The Grammar of Black British Cinema"Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a deep dive into the mechanics of how history is written, how "canons" are formed, and what we lose when we erase the origin stories of pioneering artists.DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:- The Question: Why Don't We Learn This in School?- What is "The Canon" and Who Decides?- The Four Filters: Archives, Academia, Criticism, and Commerce- The Cost of Erasure: What We Lose- What Early Black Cinema Teaches Us TodayASKED & ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE:Why isn't early Black film history taught in film schools?How does a film become a classic?What is the film canon and who creates it?Why are so many early Black films lost?What can modern filmmakers learn from Oscar Micheaux?To understand the history we're discussing, watch our video on the pioneers of Black cinemaRequired Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Required Watching, Tray Epps explores the theme of emotional fluency through cooking in cinema. He discusses three films—'Eat Drink Man Woman', 'Pieces of April', and 'The Farewell'—highlighting how food serves as a medium for expressing complex emotions and familial connections. The conversation delves into how these films illustrate the power of meals in conveying love, grief, and intimacy without the need for words, emphasizing the significance of rituals and the kitchen as a stage for emotional expression.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Required Watching, host Tray Epps delves into the emotional depths of family dramas through the lens of three films: 'Kapoor and Sons', 'Painted Skin', and 'The Jacksons'. He discusses how personal stories can resonate universally by focusing on specific emotions and experiences. Epps emphasizes the importance of authenticity in storytelling, the power of silence, and the legacy of trauma that shapes family dynamics. The conversation highlights that the core of compelling narratives lies in the emotional truths they convey, regardless of cultural context.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You have a great idea for a movie. You have a compelling character, a killer ending, maybe even a few memorable scenes. But how do you get from a jumble of brilliant ideas to a rock-solid, 110-page script with a beginning, a middle, and an end that all connect? You don't just start writing. You build it, one scene at a time.In this episode of the RW Toolkit, we're getting analog. We're breaking down one of the most powerful, flexible, and time-tested outlining tools used by professional writers: the Scene Card Method. Using simple, cheap index cards, you can build, rearrange, and stress-test your story's architecture before you ever write a single line of dialogue. It’s the secret weapon used by everyone from Aaron Sorkin to the writers at Pixar.We'll walk you through the entire process, from creating your first card to laying out your entire film on your floor or wall. This is a practical, step-by-step guide to making your story's structure tangible, manageable, and powerful.Resources Mentioned:Our "Canon" video essay on the perfect structure of Chinatown3x5 Index Cards (any brand will do)Book: Save the Cat! by Blake Snyder (a beat sheet that works well with this method)A great corkboard for your wallRequired Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Required Watching podcast, host Tray Epps discusses the challenges of screenwriting, particularly the fear of the blank page. He presents three practical methods to overcome this fear: the high concept approach, character-driven storytelling, and the final image technique. Each method offers a unique way to spark creativity and develop compelling narratives. Epps emphasizes the importance of understanding character desires and the emotional core of a story, ultimately guiding writers to find their unique voice and direction in filmmaking.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this comprehensive review of the year in film, Tray Epps explores the trends, triumphs, and disappointments of 2025. He presents a definitive list of the top 10 films that are expected to resonate for years to come, while also addressing notable disappointments in filmmaking. The conversation emphasizes the importance of storytelling, the emotional depth of cinema, and the evolving landscape of the film industry.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of East of Everywhere, Tray Epps explores the concept of filial piety in traditional East Asian society, contrasting it with Western individualism. The discussion delves into the philosophy of Confucianism, the importance of family harmony, and the evolving nature of filial duties in modern times. Tray reflects on the cultural tensions between personal freedom and familial obligations, inviting listeners to share their own experiences.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Required Watching, I dive into the fascinating role of food in cinema, focusing on films like 'How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies' and 'Chef.' I explore how food serves as a metaphor for emotions, relationships, and character development, highlighting its universal appeal and emotional depth. Join me as I examine scenes where food acts as a stand-in for unspoken words, showcasing its power in storytelling.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Tray Epps discusses the film 'American Fiction,' a satirical exploration of race, identity, and the media's portrayal of Black narratives. He highlights the film's critique of the publishing industry's obsession with stereotypical stories and the pressures faced by Black creatives. Epps shares personal reflections on authenticity in storytelling and the complexities of representation in film, emphasizing the importance of diverse narratives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to American Fiction02:39 Satire and Stereotypes in Black Narratives05:00 Personal Reflections on Authenticity and Experience07:52 The Impact of Representation in FilmRequired Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on Required Watching, Tray breaks down the impact and legacy of the documentary The Problem with Apu, a film that forced Hollywood to confront its long-ignored issues around representation and stereotyping — especially for South Asian communities.This episode explores what the documentary got right, why it sparked such a seismic conversation, and what every filmmaker should learn from its fallout.🎬 Episode HighlightsWhy The Problem with Apu became a cultural turning pointHow one animated character shaped real-world stereotypesThe ripple effect the doc had on casting, voice acting, and authenticityWhy intention doesn’t erase harm — and what filmmakers must considerThe parallels with Black representation and Tray’s own lived experiencesThe importance of acknowledging how media can be weaponisedWhy representation in voice acting deserves the same scrutiny as live-action rolesHow documentaries can spark change even when studios ignore criticismFilmmaking InsightsRepresentation is not optional — it shapes how entire groups are seen.Creative responsibility extends behind the camera, especially in writing, performance, and casting.Voice acting matters — authenticity doesn’t stop at the face on screen.Media has consequences, intended or not.Documentary storytelling can shift culture more than some blockbuster films.⭐Leave a Review & Join the GiveawaySubscribe to Required Watching and leave a 5-star review (podcast) or comment (YouTube) telling us your favourite film. Each entry counts toward the monthly giveaway.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tray Epps dissects Kill—the train-bound action film that weaponizes violence as narrative. We explore how evolving fight choreography, crushing foley work, and immersive camerawork turn every bruise and heartbeat into story. Drawing connections to The Raid, Oldboy, and RRR, this episode shows filmmakers how to harness rhythm, emotion, and consequence in genre cinema. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts—and pick up full show notes and bonus resources at requiredwatching.com.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tray Epps dissects Bottoms, Emma Seligman’s razor-sharp, bloodiest teen satire. We unpack how heightened absurdity, messy queer protagonists, and raw fight choreography carry emotional weight without a single set-piece feeling gratuitous. Learn how this film walks the tightrope between meta-comedy and genuine stakes, and why it’s a must-study for any filmmaker pushing genre boundaries. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. Full show notes and resources at requiredwatching.com.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tray Epps explores Martin Scorsese’s cult classic The King of Comedy—the original parasocial horror story. We discuss Rupert Pupkin’s delusional quest for fame, Jerry Lewis’s poignant straight-man role, and how this film foresaw our current influencer culture.Episode Highlights: – Scorsese’s use of silence and dread to build tension – Robert De Niro’s portrayal of ambition vs. delusion – Satire on celebrity obsession long before social media – Takeaways for storytellers on character, tone, and satireWhether you’re editing your next short or mapping out your feature, this breakdown offers cinematic insights you won’t want to miss. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, and visit requiredwatching.com for full show notes, timestamps, and exclusive filmmaker resources.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores why 'Rush Hour' endures as a beloved film 25 years after its release, dissecting the dynamic partnership between Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. The video delves into how the film combines action and comedy, the smart pacing, and its respectful handling of cultural differences. It discusses the director's role in creating a movie with perfect balance, the chemistry between the stars, and the film's lasting impact on the buddy cop genre. Concluding with a call for viewers to rewatch the film with a critical eye, the episode emphasizes 'Rush Hour' as essential viewing for understanding action comedies.00:00 Introduction: Is Rush Hour a Buddy Cop Classic?00:18 The Dynamic Duo: Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker00:56 Balancing Act: Action and Comedy01:33 Smart Pacing and Editing01:56 Cultural Exploration and Respect02:34 Director's Touch and Film Structure03:01 Legacy and Impact03:26 Conclusion: Why Rush Hour is Required WatchingRequired Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This isn’t about Iron Man. It’s about what happens when the biggest film franchise in the world chooses nostalgia over risk, legacy over originality, and comfort over challenge.In this raw and personal episode, Tray Epps breaks down what RDJ’s return to the MCU really signals:Disney’s ongoing shift away from originality toward safer, proven IPThe erasure of newer creative voices in favor of familiar iconsThe unspoken moral inconsistencies behind casting decisionsAnd why the art of superhero cinema may be quietly dyingWe also touch on:Jonathan Majors and the uncomfortable optics of replacementThe moral posturing Disney tries to maintain (and where it fails)Why it’s time to give new talent real chances — and real redemptionThis isn’t a hot take. It’s a call for accountability, nuance, and better storytelling — on screen and off.🎤 New episodes coming soon with filmmaker Kate Driver and more. 🎥 Subscribe and stay tuned for deeper dives into film, culture, and the future of media.JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Are we watching the MCU reset or collapse? Should we separate the art from the artist — or hold studios to a higher standard? Let’s talk: @RequiredWatching on socials or drop a YouTube comment.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you take a classic spy thriller and remix it with Bollywood flair? In this episode, Tray Epps explores how Ek Tha Tiger redefines espionage cinema through a uniquely Indian lens. From high-octane action and political undertones to an emotionally layered romance, Ek Tha Tiger is more than just a blockbuster—it’s the foundation of the YRF Spy Universe.We unpack:Why Salman Khan’s Tiger is part action hero, part mythHow Katrina Kaif’s Zoya reshapes the damsel tropeThe subtle politics between India and PakistanWhat makes the action operatic, not just over-the-topAnd why this film matters for anyone interested in global filmmakingRequired or not? Absolutely. This is a case study in adaptation, scale, and storytelling beyond Hollywood’s shadow.JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Have you joined the YRF Spy University yet? Is Ek Tha Tiger a guilty pleasure or a cultural milestone? Let us know on YouTube or @RequiredWatching on socials.Subscribe to Required Watching wherever you get your podcasts. Let’s watch better, together.Required Watching is your curriculum for cinematic literacy. We deconstruct the art and craft of filmmaking to help you become a sharper storyteller.▶️ Subscribe for new video essays every week: ▶️ Website▶️ Twitter/X▶️ Instagram▶️ Letterboxd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.