The Empire Film Podcast Episode 700: Live At Kings Place, London (ft. guests Corin Hardy & Dafne Keen; Bart Layton; Ben Wheatley; Alfie Williams, Erin Kellyman, & Chi Lewis-Parry; Anthony Russo & Joe Russo)
Jan 12, 2026
Corin Hardy, a horror film director known for Whistle, discusses the intriguing Aztec death whistle prop and its mythology. Bart Layton shares insights on his thrilling new film Crime 101, blending documentary elements with a gripping heist narrative. Ben Wheatley talks about his innovative low-budget sci-fi project, Bulk, highlighting practical effects and model work. Actor Alfie Williams shares experiences from the intense production of 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, bringing the challenges of on-set life to life.
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Episode notes
Actors Move Between Franchises
- Casting moves across franchises (e.g., Sebastian Stan to Batman) reflect increasing actor fluidity between major IPs.
- The hosts treat such moves as creative opportunities rather than betrayals of past roles.
Hear Audio Horror In Proper Cinema Conditions
- For audio horror, prioritize cinema sound design and seating to maximize scares.
- Helen O'Hara recommends hearing such films in a dark auditorium with a top-notch sound system.
Hamnet's Emotional Power Noted
- Hamnet (Hamlet adaptation) moved the panel, especially Jessie Buckley's performance and Chloe Zhao's intimate direction.
- Reviewers called it a tearful, artful domestic drama about art, grief, and expression.