Eye of the Duck: A Film Podcast

This week we say a fond farewell to Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. We wish it hadn’t happened in our time… just kidding. We’re so lucky to be alive when it did! On this epic conclusion to One Scene to Rule Them All, we’re tying off loose threads, answering listener questions, sharing some thoughts on WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM, and announcing our next miniseries! Next week, it’s our long-awaited Eye of 2025 year-in-review. And a celebration of five years of podcasting! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPod You can find Sean Astin's short film "The Long and Short of It" here, and his introduction here. Credits:  Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich. This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari. This episode was researched by Parth Marathe. Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shop The "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling. Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord. Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Municipalities, start your engines!! Or… get ready to eat each other? We’re finishing off our Rings series today with the final (?) major live action narrative production from Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, and the whole WETA gang. It may not be Tolkien-related, but hey, Hugo Weaving wields a blade in it! It’s tragic that the film didn’t start a new era for Jackson, and we’re sorting through its disastrous box office fallout this week along with some predictions for what the future has in store for WETA. Next week, we close the book on Tolkien once and for all with our series finale (including some thoughts on WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM) and an announcement for what comes next! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPod References: Cinefex #163 Production History Richard Armitage Turns Down the Engine Mortal Engines Production Notes Christian Rivers & Peter Jackson Reddit AMA The Film Pie Christian Rivers Interview The Hollywood Reporter JunkieXL Interview The Hollywood Reporter Peter Jackson Interview Peter Jackson on Loss of Andrew Lesnie Credits: Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich. This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari. This episode was researched by Parth Marathe. Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shop The "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling. Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord. Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Okay, Hobbitses, it’s our last journey through Middle Earth! And Bilbo’s first! Dom’s back, and so is Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, Ian McKellan, Andy Serkis, Elijah Wood, and… Radagast the Brown?! Although this is our only episode on the Hobbit trilogy, we’re not just covering UNEXPECTED JOURNEY this week. Listen in for some cross examination of the two (troubling) sequels, the many fan edits (especially the one from Maple Films), and Guillermo Del Toro’s greatest unmade production. A very special thanks from Dom to all the listeners who reached out with support during his absence. And thanks to Stephen Hilger for pinch hitting! Next week, it’s Jackson’s final (?) narrative film, MORTAL ENGINES (2018) from director Christian Rivers. Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPod References: Special Features The Journey Back to Middle-Earth Riddles in the Dark - Gollum’s Cave An Unexpected Party - Bag End A Short Rest - Rivendell & London The Battle of Moria Edge of the Wilderland Durin’s Folk: Creating the Dwarves The People and Denizens of Middle-Earth Realms of the Third Age - Hobbiton Realms of the Third Age - Goblin Town The Songs of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Mr. Baggins: The 14th Member The Epic of Scene 88 Home is Behind, The World Ahead Maverick Movies: New Line Cinema and the Transformation of American Film by Daniel Herbert Cinefex #132 Production History Peter Jackson/Guillermo Del Toro Party Chat Legal Issues Settled for The Hobbit Comingsoon.net Guillermo del Toro Interview Lord of the Rings Writing Team Onboard TheOneRing.net Guillermo del Toro Interview Philipa Boyens on Guillermo del Toro’s Hobbit Guillermo del Toro Officially Leaves The Hobbit Peter Jackson Wings The Hobbit Guillermo del Toro Gets Haunted The Hobbit Destroys New Zealand Film Industry Lindsay Ellis The Hobbit: The Desolation of Warners (3/2) Video A New Hobbit Film is Born Guillermo del Toro’s Version of Bilbo Moviedrone Howard Shore Interview MGM Financial Troubles Imperil The Hobbit A Message From Guillermo Credits: Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich. This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari. This episode was researched by Parth Marathe. Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shop The "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling. Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord. Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This steampunk fantasy world has everything: dæmons, talking polar bears, Daniel Craig with a snow leopard, and Nicole Kidman in her villain era!  Attempting to replicate the success of THE LORD OF THE RINGS, New Line Cinema tries to kick off a new trilogy by adapting Philip Pullman's The Golden Compass, but it… doesn’t quite work out. Our favorite JRPG expert Stephen Hilger returns to help us figure out why! Next week: DOM IS BACK!!! Our king returns just in time for us to talk THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPod References: Special Features Production Design: The Emotional Fabric of a Parallel World Armoured Bears: The Panserbjørne of Svalbard Music The Adaptation of Writer/Director Chris Weitz Finding Lyra Belacqua: Introducing Dakota Blue Richards The Alethiometer: Creating the Truth Measure Maverick Movies: New Line Cinema and the Transformation of American Film by Daniel Herbert The Golden Compass: The Official Illustrated Movie Companion by Brian Sibley Cinefex #112 Production History StarLog #362 Production History The Golden Compass Production Notes Fate of New Line Cinema Rests on The Golden Compass Newsweek Production History The Wrap Chris Weitz Interview Variety Chris Weitz Interview Wired Production History The Atlantic Production History The New York Times Production History Slate Philip Pullman Interview Credits: Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich. This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari. This episode was researched by Parth Marathe. Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shop The "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling. Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord. Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Come for the breezy fantasy, stay for Robert De Niro actively trying to speed run himself out of the movie – it's STARDUST! Our very own Sky Pirate, Stephen Hilger, returns to help us drag Claire Danes across the land so that we can finally prove ourselves to Sienna Miller. Ya know, normal fantasy stuff! Next week New Line Cinema tries to jump start another fantasy trilogy adaptation with THE GOLDEN COMPASS. Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPod References: Special Features What Do Stars Do? They Shine – The Casting Process A Quest of Enormous Importance Stardust: The Visual Companion by Stephen Jones Cinefex #111 Production History Den of Geek Jon Harris Interview Matthew Vaughn on Stardust Sequel Ain’t It Cool News Neil Gaiman Interview Los Angeles Times Neil Gaiman Interview Sarah Michelle Gellar Turns Down Role Ilan Eshkeri's Stardust: A Film Score Guide by Ian Sapiro Credits: Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich. This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari. This episode was researched by Parth Marathe. Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shop The "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling. Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord. Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This Labyrinth has everything: a dude with eyeballs in his hands, a sassy faun, a big ass toad, and bugs that are also fairies! This week our guest host, good friend, and Joe Dirt expert Stephen Hilger helps us get lost in dark heart of Guillermo del Toro's PAN'S LABYRINTH.Next week it’s Matthew Vaughn’s first foray into blockbuster filmmaking with STARDUST! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special Featuresdel Toro and FunkeThe Power of MythPan and the FairiesThe Color and the ShapeThe Melody Echoes the Fairy TaleDoug JonesGuillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth: Inside the Creation of a Modern Fairy Tale by Mark Cotta Vaz and Nick NunziataCinefex #109 Production HistoryAmerican Cinematographer Production HistoryThe Hollywood Reporter 15th Anniversary Academy Q&AGuillermo Del Toro Writes His Own SubtitlesCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we're taking a moment to share a brief but important update with you.Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPod Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the Chronic-WHAT-cles of Narnia! That’s right the Chronic-WHAT-cles of Narnia!When choosing movies inspired by THE LORD OF THE RINGS to cover for our series, Disney's mega-budget adaptation of the iconic children's classic felt essential. Joining us through the Wardrobe from the Land of Spare Oom is our old friend – and expert on famous fantasy bros Tolkien & Lewis – Sarah Welch-Larson! Next week it’s Guillermo Del Toro’s Academy Award winning, (VERY) dark fairy tale PAN'S LABYRINTH! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodAnd check out the latest edition of Sarah's (very good!) book about our beloved ALIEN franchise, Becoming Alien, here: https://wipfandstock.com/9798385236329/becoming-alien-second-edition/References:Special FeaturesThe Children’s Magical JourneyChronicles of a DirectorCinefex #104 Production HistoryCameras in Narnia: How The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe Came to Life by Ian BrodieDark Horizons Adam Adamson InterviewLos Angeles Times Production HistoryRotten Tomatoes Richard Taylor InterviewAshton Gleckman Harry Gregson-Williams InterviewC.S. Lewis Is Responsible for The Lonely IslandKingdom of Dreams Podcast Jim May InterviewCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It is a kingdom of conscience, or nothing! This week we’re going Ridley Mode™️! Join us as we embark on a journey through one of Scott’s most polarizing films, its many cuts, many characters, and its place in historical epic film history.Next week it’s Andrew Adamson’s big screen adaptation of THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special FeaturesCommentaryCast RehearsalsColors of the CrusadePath to RedemptionKingdom of Heaven: The Ridley Scott Film and the History Behind the StoryKingdom of Heaven Production NotesIndieWire Ridley Scott InterviewAnimation World Network Alain Bielik InterviewHarry Gregson-Williams Career InterviewKingdom of Dreams Dody Dorn InterviewCollider Ridley Scott InterviewCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week we’re jumping from one big adaptation of British literature to another. It’s a movie about a fellowship, but this time, they call it a league. And it’s extraordinary!!Joining us for this bonus (!!) is returning champion Stephen Hilger of the very great Into the Aether podcast! We’re piecing together one of the strangest movies out there… and still trying to figure out why Sean Connery turned down Gandalf but said yes to Quartermain.Next week it’s Ridley Scott’s historical epic, KINGDOM OF HEAVEN Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special FeaturesAssembling the LeagueAttireThe NemomobileMaking Mr. HydeResurrecting VeniceSinking VeniceStarLog #312 Production HistoryStarLog #313 Production HistoryLos Angeles Times on Stephen NorringtonBox Office Reports on Film FailureFilm Faces LawsuitEntertainment Weekly On-Set ReportLeague of Extraordinary Gentlemen Reboot in WorksPrague Reporter Production HistoryX2 Promotes the FilmTV Reboot in WorksStephen Norrington Making The League of Extraordinary GentlemenLight the Fuse Podcast Dan Lausten Interview Part 2Star Chat Stuart Townsend InterviewJason Flemying Needs To Go 10-1Sean Connery Is Done With IdiotsShane West Blackfilm InterviewTheo van de Sande Turns Down LeagueCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Listeners, the power of the Three Rings is ended. This week we fulfill our oath and complete the Peter Jackson LOTR trilogy!We’re talking Denethor (aka Dennis Thor), the army of the dead, Aragorn’s long sword, Eowyn being horny, the Mouth of Sauron being repugnant (put him back into the theatrical cut, cowards!) and how fun it is to see what Gandalf looks like when he sleeps.Also….Death! Death! Death!Next week, we’re throwin’ in a bonus! It’s another super-important adaptation featuring many famous literary characters…THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN (2003). With a super secret very special guest! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special FeaturesFrom Book to Script: Forging the Final ChapterDesigning Middle-earthHome of the Horse LordsCameras in Middle-earthWeta DigitalEditorial: Completing the TrilogyMusic for Middle-earthThe Soundscapes of Middle-earthThe End of All ThingsThe Passing of an AgePeter Jackson: A Filmmaker’s Journey by Brian SibleyCinefex #96 Production HistoryCinefex Peter Jackson InterviewASC Cinematography BreakdownCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Forth Eorlingas! This week we toss Gimli face first into the forces of the Enemy. It’s another four hour tour of Middle Earth, and this time, we brought Ents.Is the middle film of a trilogy ever the best one? In this case, the jury's out, but one thing is for certain: it has the weirdest title of all three.Topics explored this week include: Legolas’s whole deal, the groundbreaking creation of Sméagol, Merry and Pippin blazin' it with Treebeard, Helm's Deep, Helm's Deep, and a LOT more Helm's Deep.Next week, we complete the holy trinity with RETURN OF THE KING (2003), and then we promise we’ll never talk about Rings again (just kidding, the Ring has corrupted us and there’s no turning back now). Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special FeaturesWarriors of the Third AgeCameras in Middle EarthFrom Book to Script: Finding the StoryEditorial: Editing the StoryRick Porras as GollumThe Soundscapes of Middle EarthCinefex #92 Production HistoryAnything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-Earth by Ian NathanPeter Jackson: A Filmmaker’s Journey by Brian SibleyUma Thurman Turns Down EowynASC Cinematography BreakdownCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Listeners, the Third Age is finally upon us. The nine companions are assembled. The recording is 4 hours long. It shall be… The Fellowship of the Duck!This week, Adam and Dom are embarking on a quest to save Middle-Earth and somehow make sense of the greatest trilogy in movie history. It’s FELLOWSHIP, and we still cannot believe Peter Jackson actually pulled this off. There are simply too many Eye of the Duck scenes!Some points of discussion on our journey to Mordor: do the Rings movies function as self-contained stories? Is this the best the industry will ever be? Should Jackson be arrested for skipping Tom Bombadil? And when the hell is Warner Bros going to finally put out a 4K box set that contains the Blu-Ray Appendices?!Next week, the trilogy continues with another massive episode on THE TWO TOWERS (2002). Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special FeaturesDesigning and Building Middle-earthFilming The Fellowship of the RingVisual EffectsCosta Botes’ Fellowship of the Ring DocumentarySound and MusicAnything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-Earth by Ian NathanPeter Jackson: A Filmmaker’s Journey by Brian SibleyCinefex #89 Production HistoryThe Music of The Lord of the Rings Films by Doug AdamsPeter Jackson and the Tolkien EstateASC Cinematography BreakdownCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Happy holidays! Adam made a feature film and we’re (finally) going to celebrate it in style. It’s a bonus episode of holly, jolly, drinks, and independent film. With a very special guest host!Our old friend Sarah Welch-Larson takes the reins this week for an exploration of feature filmmaking, micro budget cinema, the inspirations behind Adam’s film, and some questions about its creation–including Dom’s role as co-editor!Also, you better believe we’re talking about Eye of the Duck scenes, too.Next week, we set course for Mordor at long last. Part II of our Rings miniseries begins with THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING (2001). And we can’t wait! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Craft Services Adam Volerich InterviewParth MaratheAdam VolerichDom NeroCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Justice for Gurgi! This week it’s the final stop on our tour of pre-Jackson LOTR-inspired films… and our very first ever Disney animated film!Joining us to explore Welsh mythology, The Chronicles of Prydain, and the weird lengths Disney will go to make their adaptations kid-friendly is returning guest (and Eye of the Duck digital producer) Nik Long!Next week we have a very special holiday surprise! We’re celebrating Christmas and independent film with a bonus episode on Adam’s very own DRINK AND BE MERRY (2025). Now available on VOD and Blu-ray! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:DisneyWar by James B. StewartSlate Production HistoryMouse in Transition: An Insider's Look at Disney Feature Animation by Steve HulettThe Chicago Tribune Production HistoryCollider Production History“Chronicles of Prydain” Reboot In the WorksFinal Film In Technirama 70mmThe Lion King Surpasses BudgetBBC Production HistoryNew Logo New DisneyCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sing it with us!! WHERE THERE’S A WHIP [WHIP SFX] THERE’S A WAY! WHERE THERE’S A WHIP [WHIP SFX] THERE’S A WAY!This week we face the Lord of the Lash himself for the epic return of Arthur Rankin & Jules Bass, and the wildest voice cast in Tolkien history. Roddy McDowall is Sam? Casey Kasem is Merry?! It may not be the most beloved Rings adaptation out there…but it’s certainly the last one in a very long while!Next week, we close out the first act of our trilogy with the highly contentious Disney cult classic, THE BLACK CAULDRON (1985). Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Middle-Earth Envisioned: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings: On Screen, On Stage, and Beyond by Brian J. Robb and Paul SimpsonCinefantastique Production HistoryArthur Rankin Jr. on RingsFilm Release in Trouble“Frodo, The Hobbit II”Leonard Nimoy on “The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins”St. Petersburg Times on Release of “The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins”Powerpop on “The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins”Leonard Nimoy Sings “The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins”Credits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the first major adaptation of Tolkien’s trilogy and it is…rotoscope animation? Enter Ralph Bakshi and his completely batshit vision of an animated Middle Earth!Is it a mixed masterpiece or a very audacious disaster? Either way, Bakshi’s rotoscope RINGS is extremely influential for Peter Jackson, and we’re celebrating its legacy this week.Next week, we complete our unofficial animated trilogy with RETURN OF THE KING (1980) from Rankin and Bass. Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special FeaturesForging Through The Darkness: The Ralph Bakshi VisionMiddle-Earth Envisioned: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings: On Screen, On Stage, and Beyond by Brian J. Robb and Paul SimpsonCinefantastique Production HistoryJim Hill Media Ralph Bakshi InterviewA.V. Club Ralph Bakshi InterviewThe Hollywood Reporter Production HistoryRalph Bakshi on Peter JacksonCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Listen up, Hobbitses! An adventure is knocking at your door! Will you answer it? Even if it’s a musical?It’s the first actual Tolkien adaptation of our series this week, and we are so confused that it exists. Rankin and Bass? The dudes who make the Rudolph and Frosty movies? Yes. And for some reason, Otto Preminger is in it.Next week it’s Ralph Bakshi’s THE LORD OF THE RINGS animated spectacular! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Middle-Earth Envisioned: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings: On Screen, On Stage, and Beyond by Brian J. Robb and Paul SimpsonJ. R. R. Tolkien: A Biography by Humphrey CarpenterThe New York Times Production HistoryTolkien Hates DisneyCinefantastique Production HistoryCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Series premiere! This week we leave The Shire behind to embark on our journey through Middle Earth and the epic fantasy genre!In the spirit of Lord of the Rings, we’ve divided our miniseries into three parts, and we’re starting today with Part 1: The Road to Mordor. And that road begins with, you guessed it, Ray Harryhausen!Peter Jackson’s trilogy would not exist without the sword-and-sandals stop-motion action of Harryhausen – so as we voyage towards Mordor, we must first trek the scorching sands of Ancient Greece, where harpies fly, gigantic statues terrorize, and gods try to kill us out of boredom! Oh, and spooky skeletons.Next week, we spend some time with a different type kind of Hobbit in Rankin and Bass’s animated THE HOBBIT. Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodReferences:Special FeaturesPeter Jackson Commentary TrackPeter Jackson on Ray HarryhausenArt UK Production HistoryRay Harryhausen/Bruce Eder Commentary Track 1992 Criterion ReleaseRay Harryhausen Talks Animating SkeletonsRay Harryhausen UK LaserDisc InterviewRay Harryhausen on Jerky MetalBruce Eder on Jason and the ArgonautsThe New York Times Ray Harryhausen FeatureInfinity Magazine Issue 41 Production HistoryCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Run back the tape! We’re closing the book on yet another miniseries this week, and… revealing the journey that lies ahead!It’s been a joy scrubbing through all the haunted camera recordings of these found footage horror movies, and we’re thrilled to tie off some loose ends, answer listener questions, and decide once and for all: is the Blair Witch even named Blair?Next week, we start anew…listen to find out where we’ll be headed with our next miniseries!! Join the conversation on our Discord at https://discord.com/invite/RssDc3brsx and get more Eye of the Duck on our Patreon show, After Hours https://www.patreon.com/EyeoftheDuckPodCredits:Eye of the Duck is created, hosted, and produced by Dom Nero and Adam Volerich.This episode was edited by Michael Gaspari.This episode was researched by Parth Marathe.Our logo was designed by Francesca Volerich. You can purchase her work at francescavolerich.com/shopThe "Adam's Blu-Ray Corner" theme was produced by Chase Sterling.Assistant programming and digital production by Nik Long.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd or join the conversation at Eye of the Discord.Learn more at eyeoftheduckpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.