Wilhelm

Hosted by Ben Beck

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282

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May 2026

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About the show

Wilhelm is a pop culture podcast for people who love movies and television and actually want to talk about them. Hosted by Ben Beck, the show features Top 5 breakdowns, spoiler-free reviews, deep dives, franchise conversations, and candid interviews with actors and creators. Wilhelm blends genuine enthusiasm with honest critique - no gatekeeping, no hot-take farming. Just smart, fun, and passionate conversations about the stories we love. If you love movies, television, and talking about why they matter, you’re in the right place.

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60 recent

May 12, 202630 min

SPOTLIGHT SERIES: Dropout.tv and a Conversation with Sam Reich

In this special feature episode of Wilhelm, Ben Beck reflects on why Dropout has become one of the most meaningful and authentic entertainment platforms in modern streaming.From the creative freedom of Game Changer and Make Some Noise to the community-driven storytelling of Dimension 20, this episode explores why audiences are connecting so deeply with Dropout’s creator-first philosophy and what makes the platform feel so different in today’s entertainment landscape.Following the editorial discussion, Ben sits down with Sam Reich for a thoughtful conversation about:- The evolution and success of Dropout- Emmy conversations surrounding Game Changer- Maintaining authenticity while growing- The explosive launch of the Game Changer: Home Edition Kickstarter- Creative freedom in modern entertainment- And why trust between creators and audiences matters now more than everA huge thank you to Creative Publicity for helping make this conversation possible.Follow Wilhelm: - Instagram/Facebook: @WilhelmPodcast- Website: WelcomeToWilhelm.comSubscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever podcasts can be found.

March 10, 20266 min

REVIEW: Project Hail Mary (2026)

Ryan Gosling leads the charge in Project Hail Mary, the new sci-fi epic based on Andy Weir’s bestselling novel (The Martian). Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the film blends massive interstellar spectacle with a surprisingly emotional, character-driven story.In this spoiler-free review, I break down what makes Project Hail Mary work so well — from Gosling’s standout performance to the film’s stunning visuals and smart approach to science fiction storytelling.If you love big, ambitious sci-fi with heart, this is a movie you’ll want to see on the biggest screen possible.If you like what you hear, don’t forget to subscribe and rate the show wherever you stream your podcasts.Visit my website for all of my content and links on where you can find everything: ⁠⁠http://www.welcometowilhelm.com⁠⁠Like Wilhelm on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠WilhelmPodcast⁠⁠⁠Follow Wilhelm on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@WilhelmPodcast⁠⁠⁠Email Wilhelm or Send a Voicemail: ⁠⁠⁠feedback@wilhelmpodcast.com#ProjectHailMary #RyanGosling #SciFiMovies #MovieReview #WilhelmPodcast #FilmReview #SpaceMovies #SciFiFans #IMAXMovies #WelcomeToWilhelm

March 9, 20262 hr 14 min

WILHELM OSCAR PREDICTIONS 2026

Awards season is here once again, which means it’s time for one of our favorite annual traditions on Wilhelm - breaking down the biggest categories of the Academy Awards and making our official predictions.Joining Ben this year are two returning guests and longtime friends of the show: Pake Allen, co-host of the Run For Your Lives podcast, and professional actress Brandy Bryant. Together, the three of usdive into nine of the major Oscar categories to share their personal favorites and their predictions for who will ultimately win when the envelopes are opened.Along the way, the conversation explores standout performances, surprise contenders, and the films that left the biggest impression on them this year.Whether you’re filling out your own Oscar ballot or just love talking movies, this episode is packed with predictions, passionate film discussion, and plenty of debate.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more celebrity interviews, movie coverage, and pop culture conversations from the Wilhelm Podcast.Listen to Wilhelm: Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more ⁠https://welcometowilhelm.com⁠Follow on social: @WelcomeToWilhelm#Oscars #AcademyAwards #OscarPredictions #FilmPodcast #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #MovieLovers #AwardsSeason #Cinema #BestPicture #MovieTalk #FilmCritic #MovieCommunity #WilhelmPodcast #Wilhelm

February 18, 20261 hr 22 min

SPOTLIGHT SERIES: Ryan Lambert (Monster Squad)

What happens when a cult classic legacy meets a brand newcreative chapter?In this episode of the Wilhelm Podcast, Ben Beck sits downwith actor and musician Ryan Lambert, best known for his role in The MonsterSquad. From sharing the stage at conventions - including one unforgettablepanel that was interrupted by a tornado - to reflecting on the lasting impactof a film that continues to resonate with fans decades later, this conversationcovers a wide range of topics. Ryan also discusses his latest project, stepping behind thecamera to direct his upcoming short film Noah Payne and the Tooth of Doom. Witha distinct visual style, a passion for shooting on film, and a story rooted ina universally relatable fear, the project represents an exciting new creativedirection. If you enjoy conversations about film, storytelling, and thecreative process, this is an episode you will not want to miss. Support Ryan’s film: https://gofund.me/019d1bd01 Follow Ryan on Instagram: @RyanLambert111 Listen to Wilhelm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or whereveryou get your podcasts or visit WelcometoWilhelm.com Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Tornado Panel Experience 02:33 The Legacy of Monster Squad 05:23 The Journey of Rediscovery 08:05 Behind the Camera: Ryan's New Creative Venture 10:58 Exploring Film Photography 13:42 The Art of Photography and Creative Expression 27:51 The Evolution of Filmmaking: From Film to Digital 29:31 Ryan's Directorial Debut: A New Journey 33:05 Inspiration Behind 'Noah Pain and the Tooth of Doom' 35:43 Shooting on Film: Challenges and Techniques 41:51 The Influence of Classic Cinema on Modern Filmmaking 50:59 Oscar Predictions and the Future of Film 55:51 Funding the Creative Journey 59:15 The Art of Filmmaking: A Personal Perspective 01:02:50 Creating Art for Yourself 01:07:24 Future Projects and Artistic Growth 01:11:49 The Charm of Film and Cinema 01:17:04 Community and Screenings: Engaging with Audiences #WilhelmPodcast #RyanLambert #MonsterSquad #IndieFilm#Filmmaking #ShortFilm #FilmCommunity #Podcast #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion#SupportIndieFilm #HorrorFans #CultClassic #CreativeCommunity

February 2, 202617 min

A CONVERSATION WITH THE CAST AND DIRECTORS OF SOLO MIO

Go behind the scenes of Solo Mio with exclusive interviews from the film’s press junket!I got to sit down for three in-depth conversations with: Actor Jonathan Roumie and director Daniel Kinnane / Actor Kim Coates and director Chuck Kinnane / and star Kevin JamesSolo Mio hits theaters February 6.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more celebrity interviews, movie coverage, and pop culture conversations from the Wilhelm Podcast.Listen to Wilhelm: Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more https://welcometowilhelm.comFollow on social: @WelcomeToWilhelm#SoloMio #KevinJames #JonathanRoumie #KimCoates #DanielKinnane #ChuckKinnane #AngelStudios #MovieInterviews #PressJunket #FilmPress #BehindTheScenes #MovieTalk #MoviePress #EntertainmentNews #WilhelmPodcast #Wilhelm #NewMovies #FilmCommunity #PMKEntertainment #PremiereTV

January 9, 20262 hr 43 min

SEASON PREMIERE: BEST OF 2025

Wilhelm is officially back for 2026, and we’re kicking off the new season the only way that makes sense - with our annual Best Of episode.Joining me for this supersized season premiere are Klep Napier and Alex Krugar, as we dive headfirst into the films and television of 2025. From massive releases to surprise standouts, we’re each revealing and breaking down our Top 5 Favorite Films and Top 5 Favorite Television Show picks of the year, explaining what worked, what stuck with us, and why these stories rose above the rest.Along the way, we also shout out a handful of honorable mentions that just missed our lists, because let’s be honest - 2025 had way too much great content to keep this short. We wrap things up with a brief look ahead at what we’re most excited for in 2026, setting the tone for the year to come.This episode is longer, deeper, and packed with passionate discussion - a true celebration of everything we loved about pop culture in 2025 and the perfect way to kick off a brand-new season of Wilhelm.🎧 Topics include:Top 5 Favorite Television Shows of 2025Top 5 Favorite Films of 2025Honorable MentionsLooking Ahead to 2026Plenty of passionate debate and laughs along the wayWelcome back to Wilhelm. It’s time to hit record.

August 7, 20258 min

REVIEW: Weapons (2025)

Weapons is a bold, layered horror mystery that demands your attention and dares you to piece it all together. Smart, chilling, and quietly powerful — this one will stay with you.Weapons opens in theaters nationwide on Friday August 8th. Rated RIf you like what you hear, don’t forget to subscribe and rate the show wherever you stream your podcasts.Visit my website for all of my content and links on where you can find everything: ⁠http://www.welcometowilhelm.com⁠Like Wilhelm on Facebook at ⁠⁠WilhelmPodcast⁠⁠Follow Wilhelm on Instagram: ⁠⁠@WilhelmPodcast⁠⁠Email Wilhelm or Send a Voicemail: ⁠⁠feedback@wilhelmpodcast.com

July 8, 202513 min

REVIEW: Superman (2025)

Superman is here — and the DC universe is finally flying in the right direction! Bright, bold, and brimming with hope, James Gunn delivers a fresh take that hits all the right notes!Superman opens in theaters nationwide on Friday July 11th. Rated PG-13If you like what you hear, don’t forget to subscribe and rate the show wherever you stream your podcasts.Visit my website for all of my content and links on where you can find everything: http://www.welcometowilhelm.comLike Wilhelm on Facebook at ⁠WilhelmPodcast⁠Follow Wilhelm on Instagram: ⁠@WilhelmPodcast⁠Email Wilhelm or Send a Voicemail: ⁠feedback@wilhelmpodcast.com

February 14, 202547 min

SPOTLIGHT: My Panel with Alan Tudyk (Resident Alien)

Join me for an unforgettable live panel with the incredibly talented Alan Tudyk, recorded at Fan Expo Philadelphia in 2024. From Firefly to Rogue One, Doom Patrol, Harley Quinn and Resident Alien, Alan has brought to life some of the most memorable characters in sci-fi and pop culture. In this engaging conversation, he shares behind-the-scenes stories, career insights, and his signature humor with the audience.If you like what you hear, don’t forget to subscribe and rate the show wherever you stream your podcasts.Like Wilhelm on Facebook at WilhelmPodcastFollow Wilhelm on Instagram: @WilhelmPodcastEmail Wilhelm or Send a Voicemail: feedback@wilhelmpodcast.com

January 17, 20252 hr 35 min

BEST OF 2024!

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the stories that defined the year! Join host Ben Beck and his special guests Alex Krueger (Quit Chasin’ Podcast) and Keith “Klep” Napier (Critix Outlet) as they count down their Top 5 Favorite Films and TV Shows of 2024. From blockbuster hits to binge-worthy TV, we’re diving into the best of what the last year had to offer.Expect plenty of fun, laughter, and maybe even some debates as we celebrate the incredible storytelling that made 2024 an unforgettable year in pop culture. Whether you’re catching up on missed gems or looking for recommendations, this episode is a must-listen for film and TV lovers!Follow Alex on the Quit Chasin' Podcast:https://linktr.ee/quitchasinpodFollow Klep with Critix:https://www.wearecritix.comDon’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Wilhelm for more fun episodes celebrating movies, TV, and pop culture!If you like what you hear, don’t forget to subscribe and rate the show wherever you stream your podcasts.Like Wilhelm on Facebook at WilhelmPodcastFollow Wilhelm on Instagram: @WilhelmPodcastEmail Wilhelm or Send a Voicemail: feedback@wilhelmpodcast.com