A special year-end announcement from Ken Mercer and FT Kosempa about the future of They Shoot Films.

In this episode, we dive deep into L.A. Confidential (1997), Curtis Hanson’s modern noir masterpiece and one of the defining crime films of the 1990s. Set against the corruption-soaked backdrop of 1950s Los Angeles, L.A. Confidential blends classic Hollywood noir with sharp, contemporary filmmaking.

We explore how the film adapts James Ellroy’s novel, and how it draws key plot elements from Los Angeles history. From its intricate screenplay and unforgettable dialogue to its career-defining performances by Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, Kim Basinger, and Kevin Spacey, L.A. Confidential stands as the rare studio film that rewards close attention.

This episode examines the difficulties of adapting James Ellroy‘s novel, as well as a discussion of the general challenges of book to film. We also discuss why L.A. Confidential continues to resonate decades later — and how it quietly critiques Hollywood’s own mythology.

Perfect for fans of classic noir, crime films, and thoughtful film analysis, this episode looks at why L.A. Confidential remains one of the smartest and most rewatchable films of its era.

In this episode, we step inside the golden glow of rock-and-roll nostalgia as we dive deep into Cameron Crowe’s Almost Famous. We break down the iconic coming-of-age classic and explore how Crowe transformed his real-life experiences at Rolling Stone into one of the most heartfelt, music-soaked films of the 2000s.

We’ll discuss the film’s unforgettable performances by Kate Hudson, Billy Crudup, Patrick Fugit, and Frances McDormand; the timeless soundtrack curated by Crowe; and the movie’s core themes of innocence, ambition, fandom, and the blurry lines between truth and myth in rock culture. From “Tiny Dancer” to the “uncool” speech, we examine the scenes that made Almost Famous a cult favorite and a defining piece of modern cinema.

If you love movie analysis, film history, behind-the-scenes stories, or Cameron Crowe’s unique storytelling voice, this episode is for you. Tune in as we unpack why Almost Famous remains one of the most beloved films of its era—and how its blend of humor, heart, and heartbreak keeps it resonating with new audiences.