Hour 2 begins when Mark is joined by Joe Russell, producer and director, to discuss his new 35mm short film screening at the St. Louis International Film Festival, which chronicles a true story set during the Khmer Rouge's rise to power in 1975 Cambodia. Russell reflects on his Belleville roots, shares how sneaking into a St. Louis radio station in 1999 launched his creative career, and details his current projects with screenwriter Terry Rossio. He also shares his perspective on the impact of artificial intelligence in live-action film production and announces the upcoming online release of his short film on December 8. Sue talked about converting her fireplace to real wood and getting too much smoke inside, prompting a studio debate with Mark, Alex, and Fred about priming the flue with paper, opening dampers, or pushing the logs further back. They also take time recognizing federal closures, light traffic, and family members who served (including Fred’s father in WWII, Alex’s grandfathers, and Sue’s uncles). What kind of food do you feed your dog?
Nov 11, 2026
