In this episode of Deep Cuts, co-host Alex Young is joined by frequent guest Craig Smeaton and special guest, film writer Charles Pieper, for a conversation that moves between filmmaking, miniature worlds, and the bizarre realities of everyday life.

Charles shares insights into his work, creative process, and the stop-motion projects he has on the horizon—exploring the patience, imagination, and strange details that make handcrafted filmmaking so distinctive. From there, things get more personal as the conversation turns to crazy neighbours, memorable encounters, and the kind of stories that are almost too strange to be true.

We also dig into our reactions to the latest alien-disclosure release, discussing its big ideas, its impact, and where it lands for us. To round things off, the game takes us through three spooky, gothic, and wonderfully offbeat cinematic worlds.

It’s a funny, strange, and delightfully unpredictable episode of Deep Cuts.

Ann Cusack joins Deep Cuts: The Game!

This week, Jeff Penn welcomes acclaimed actress Ann Cusack to the hot seat, with co-host Alex Young and returning favorite Sam Berry joining the fun.

Known for her memorable performances across film and television, Ann shares stories from her career, reflects on working alongside some of Hollywood's biggest names, and proves that even seasoned actors can be challenged when it comes to the smallest names in the credits.

Then it's time for the game. Armed with three unforgettable films, Jeff puts Ann, Alex, and Sam to the test as they dig deep into their movie knowledge, searching for the most obscure actors they can remember. Every round brings surprising answers, unexpected connections, and plenty of laughs as the competition heats up.

Can Ann outplay two devoted movie fans? Will Alex finally reclaim bragging rights? And does Sam have another deep-cut masterpiece up his sleeve?

Actor and musician Courtney Gains joins Deep Cuts: The Game alongside guest hosts Amanda Jane Stern and Brantley Palmer for one of our most entertaining episodes yet.

Known for stealing scenes in some of the most memorable films of the '80s and beyond, Courtney shares hilarious stories from his decades in Hollywood, reflects on building a career as one of the great character actors of his generation, and talks about his passion for making music. His self-deprecating humor, incredible memory, and behind-the-scenes stories make this an episode movie fans won't want to miss.

Then it's time for the game, where Courtney, Amanda, and Brantley dig deep into three classic films, searching for the most obscure actors they can find. Will anyone uncover the deepest cuts, or will Courtney's encyclopedic knowledge prove impossible to beat?

It's a fun, funny, and nostalgia-filled episode packed with great stories, unexpected trivia, and plenty of laughs.