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Episode 23: Philip K. Dickolas
Prompts: Blue, Machine, and Two
In this futuristic and literary episode of Curated by Chance, Neal and Lauren dive into two distinct works of art inspired by this week’s prompts.
Neal explores the 2002 sci-fi noir masterpiece Minority Report. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Cruise, the film delves into the murky ethics of pre-crime technology, stunning practical effects, and a dark vision of the future. From incredible stunts to Spielberg’s signature long takes, Neal breaks down why this film remains a cultural and technological touchstone decades later.
Lauren takes a different approach with the novella This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone. Through an epistolary love story between two characters—Red and Blue—caught on opposite sides of a time-traveling war, Lauren highlights the poetic beauty and emotional depth of this Nebula, Hugo, and Locus Award-winning work.
Neal’s Topic:
Minority Report (2002)
Watch the movie
Lauren’s Topic:
This Is How You Lose the Time War (2019)
Get the book
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Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
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EPISODE 22: Sisterhood of the Traveling Goldfinch
PROMPTS: Fowl, 27, Coral
In this wild New Year and milestone birthday episode of Curated by Chance, Neal and Lauren ring in 2025 with a blend of art, absurdity, and a little fowl play.
Lauren dives into the storied history of Carl Fabritius’ The Goldfinch, a Dutch Golden Age masterpiece that’s survived explosions, shrapnel, and centuries of mystery. From its delicate depiction of a chained goldfinch to its surprising symbolic significance, Lauren takes listeners through its fascinating journey from obscurity to the center of Donna Tartt’s Pulitzer-winning novel and even Hollywood. A bird that survived the Delft Thunderclap? Now that’s art with a bang.
Neal follows with a hilarious detour into one of cinema’s most infamous cult classics: Howard the Duck (1986). With duck nudity, awkward animatronics, and a star-studded cast (Lea Thompson and Tim Robbins, anyone?), Neal explores why this Marvel misfire is as bizarre as it is beloved.
Lauren's Topic:
The Goldfinch
Carel Fabritius
1654
Learn More About The Work
Neal's Topic
Howard The Duck (1986)
Stream the movie
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Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
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Episode 21: Deep Fried Tenders at Bulges
In this festive episode of Curated by Chance, Neal and Lauren dive into an unexpectedly hilarious and insightful conversation inspired by the spirit of the season, nostalgic college rituals, and... unconventional business ideas.
Lauren opens with reflections on Christmas traditions, from her family's cozy Christmas Eve rituals to her current waffle-filled mornings with her in-laws. Neal shares his childhood Christmas celebrations and recounts his role as the family "jungle gym" for his nieces, complete with a Tecmo Super Bowl tournament twist.
Then, things take a detour into hilarity with a playful discussion about graphic design genius (hint: the Hooters logo), entrepreneurial equality with "Bulges" (a hypothetical counterpart to Hooters), and the quintessential debate of deep-fried chicken tenders.
Neal transitions into the main topic: a spotlight on the 1993 thriller The Fugitive. From its gripping storyline to behind-the-scenes tidbits, Neal explains why Harrison Ford’s portrayal of the wrongfully accused Dr. Richard Kimball is a cinematic masterpiece. Highlights include Ford’s on-set injury, Tommy Lee Jones’ iconic improv line (“I don’t care”), and the audaciously real train crash scene. Fans of movie trivia and Chicago locales will love this segment!
Lauren wraps up with a beautifully immersive dive into Susanna Clarke’s Piranesi, a labyrinthine tale of loss, memory, and imagination. She highlights the book’s unique narrative structure, Clarke’s creative genius, and the intriguing stop-motion adaptation in the works by Leica Studios. If you’re a fan of magical realism or fantasy, this is a must-listen!
PROMPTS: 16, Water, Loss
Neal's Topic
The Fugitive (1993)
Stream the movie
Oral History of the film
Lauren's Topic:
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke
Learn More About The Work
Support Our Show:
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Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
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Buy Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
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Episode 20: Ceci N’est Pas Une Podcast
In this episode of Curated by Chance, Neal and Lauren embrace the surreal as they explore two influential creative giants: the enigmatic René Magritte and the groundbreaking screenwriter William Goldman.
Lauren kicks things off with a deep dive into the surreal world of René Magritte, the Belgian artist known for his clever, dreamlike paintings that challenge perception and representation. From the haunting story of his childhood to his evolution as a key figure in surrealism, Lauren unpacks the layers of Magritte’s work, including iconic pieces like The Treachery of Images and The Lovers. Plus, discover how Magritte's influence extends to pop culture, from MoMA exhibits to Beyoncé music videos.
Neal follows up with a spotlight on William Goldman, the legendary screenwriter behind Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Princess Bride. Neal explores Goldman's creative genius, his knack for blending humor and poignancy, and his lasting impact on Hollywood storytelling. With fascinating anecdotes about his screenwriting techniques and his bold defiance of conventional rules, this segment is a must-listen for movie buffs and aspiring writers alike.
Stay tuned for this week’s prompts—“Navy,” “1970s,” and “Train”—and join Neal and Lauren as they craft the next episode's inspirations.
PROMPTS: Navy, 1970s, Train
Lauren's Topic:
René Magritte
Learn More About The Work
Neal's Topic
Screenwriter William Goldman
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
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E-mail us: [email protected]
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Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
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Episode 19: Saffron Crocs & Eyeball Burns
In this episode of Curated by Chance, Neal and Lauren start with a spirited discussion about wardrobe mishaps, a whirlwind trip to Washington, D.C., and the energy of exploring monuments on scooters in freezing weather.
Neal takes us back to 1975 with a cinematic masterpiece that’s part art history, part technical marvel: Barry Lyndon. Highlighting Stanley Kubrick’s obsession with natural light, NASA lenses, and meticulous historical detail, Neal reveals why this film is like walking into an 18th-century painting. Along the way, we hear about the film’s production challenges, its groundbreaking cinematography, and why it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves movies and museums.
Lauren shines a spotlight on the trailblazing artist Alma Thomas, who defied the odds to create vibrant, abstract works in her later years. From her time as a teacher to her rise as a celebrated painter, Lauren explores Thomas’s colorful legacy, including her role in the March on Washington and her history-making exhibition at the Whitney. Her story is a testament to how life is long, full of possibilities, and brimming with second (or third!) acts.
Stay tuned for updates from their Patreon and a special sneak peek at an upcoming exhibition Lauren is helping to host in 2025. You’ll walk away inspired to create, explore, and appreciate the beauty of art and film.
PROMPTS: Flower, Saffron, 1970s
Neal's Topic:
Barry Lyndon (1975)
Watch the film here
Cinematography Deep Dive
Lauren's Topic:
Alma Thomas
Learn More About The Work
Support Our Show:
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
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Buy Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
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EPISODE 18: Locked in a Museum
Neal and Lauren kick off this episode of Curated by Chance with a fun hypothetical: which museum would you be okay being locked in for a week? Neal leans into nostalgia for The Met’s labyrinthine halls and ancient relics, while Lauren takes us through her imaginative week at The Met, complete with time-traveling from an 18th-century room to a Frank Lloyd Wright interior.
In their prompts section, Lauren dives into the life and art of Rosa Bonheur, the trailblazing 19th-century painter known for her massive and hyper-realistic animal portraits. Lauren paints a vivid picture (pun intended) of Bonheur’s defiance of gender norms, including her audacious decision to wear men’s clothing to sketch animals at the Paris horse markets. Neal follows up with an ode to Small Soldiers (1998), a chaotic blend of satire, toys, and 90s CGI nostalgia. From its stacked cast (Tommy Lee Jones, Kirsten Dunst) to its wild marketing fiascoes, Neal dissects why this movie holds a peculiar place in cinematic history.
The pair wrap up with updates from their Patreon and tease upcoming topics, leaving listeners with plenty to ponder and a dose of pop culture inspiration.
PROMPTS: Rose, Toy, 358
Lauren's Topic:
Rosa Bonheur
The Horse Fair
1855
Learn More About The Work
Neal's Topic:
Small Soldiers (1998)
Watch the film here
Fun Behind-the-Scenes Featurette
Support Our Show:
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Buy Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
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EPISODE 17: Mocks and Docs
Neal dives into the delightful chaos of Waiting for Guffman, the cult classic mockumentary by Christopher Guest. He unpacks the absurdly earnest world of small-town community theater, introducing the eccentric Corky St. Clair, Blaine, Missouri’s quirkiest director. With heartfelt anecdotes and laugh-out-loud observations, Neal celebrates the improvised genius of the cast, from Parker Posey’s Dairy Queen dreamer to Fred Willard and Catherine O’Hara’s hilariously misguided stage couple. Neal shares personal memories tied to the film, why it resonates with theater lovers and skeptics alike, and how it brilliantly captures the lovable earnestness of amateur theater.
Lauren shifts the spotlight to Paris Is Burning, the groundbreaking documentary chronicling New York’s 1980s drag ball culture. With a blend of reverence and critical analysis, she explores the origins of voguing, the fierce competition of ball culture, and the resilience of LGBTQ+ communities in the face of societal rejection. From the larger-than-life house mothers to the heartbreaking reality of marginalized lives, Lauren celebrates the film’s enduring impact on queer representation, while highlighting its controversies. Together, Neal and Lauren weave personal stories and cultural insights into a vibrant discussion of two cinematic treasures.
Episode Prompts: 5014, Jet, Documentary
Special Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book Giveaway!
Purchase the book and go here: https://www.quarto.com/campaign/Rom-Com-Trivia-Preorder
Neal's Topic:
Waiting for Guffman (1996)
Watch the film here
Alternate Epilogue Neal Spoke About
Lauren's Topic:
Paris is Burning (1990)
Watch the film here
Criterion Collection Remaster
Support Our Show:
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 3) Pre-Order Now and Enter the Giveaway!
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EPISODE 16: Podsplain It To Me
Lauren takes listeners deep into the complex world of museum ethics and cultural restitution, unraveling the fascinating saga of the Benin Bronzes. She recounts how these treasured artifacts were looted from Nigeria during a violent raid in 1897 and scattered across global museums, sparking heated debates about repatriation and cultural preservation. With wit and insight, Lauren sheds light on the ongoing tug-of-war between returning artifacts to their origins and preserving them for a global audience, challenging listeners to consider: who truly owns history?
Neal shifts gears with a celebration of Zatoichi, the iconic blind swordsman from Japanese cinema. He reveals the layered history of this legendary character, who first appeared in a 1962 film and evolved through 26 movies and a TV series. Neal connects Zatoichi’s influence to modern storytelling, from samurai classics to The Mandalorian. He also touches on The Warriors—the cult-classic film reimagined as a star-studded concept album by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Neal dives into the film's video-game-like structure, its iconic lines, and its cultural legacy, painting a vivid picture of why these stories endure. Plus the pair consider changing their podcast title. What do you think?
Episode Prompts: Mauve, 962, Steal/Steel
Special Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book Giveaway!
Purchase the book and go here: https://www.quarto.com/campaign/Rom-Com-Trivia-Preorder
Your trivia question: What one-named brand dress was Audrey Hepburn wearing in the opening of Breakfast at Tiffany's?
Lauren's Topic:
The Benin Bronzes
Learn More About Them
Neal's Topic:
Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman
Criterion Set
The Warriors (1979)
Watch the film here
Warriors Concept Album
Listen to the album here
Support Our Show:
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 3) Pre-Order Now and Enter the Giveaway!
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EPISODE 15: Pretty in Shocking Pink
In this episode, Neal and Lauren bring their signature blend of wit and insight to two fascinating cultural topics. Neal dives deep into Pretty in Pink (1986), sharing behind-the-scenes stories, casting surprises, and the lasting impact of John Hughes’ quintessential teen rom-com. From Molly Ringwald’s iconic wardrobe to the alternate ending that test audiences rejected, Neal unpacks why Pretty in Pink remains a touchstone for teen cinema. Whether you’re Team Ducky or Team Blane, Neal’s exploration of the film’s music, themes, and legacy will have you dusting off your prom playlist. Neal also details his trials of being dry needled and recommends it to the masses in true fine art form.
Lauren shifts gears and takes us into the stylish world of Elsa Schiaparelli, the trailblazing Italian designer who defined avant-garde fashion in the early 20th century. From her aristocratic upbringing to her revolutionary designs that fused art and couture, Lauren paints a vivid portrait of Schiaparelli’s fascinating life. With tales of surrealist collaborations, iconic fashion innovations, and a larger-than-life personality, this segment is a masterclass in style and history.
Episode Prompts: Adrenaline, Pink, 1615
Special Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book Giveaway!
Purchase the book and go here: https://www.quarto.com/campaign/Rom-Com-Trivia-Preorder
Neal's Topic:
Pretty in Pink (1986)
Watch the film on Paramount Plus
Stream the film elsewhere
"If You Leave" by OMD
Neal's Recommendation:
The Women (1939)
Lauren's Topic:
Elsa Schiaparelli (1890-1973)
Learn More About Elsa
Article about Shocking Pink
Support Our Show:
Love the show? Help us keep going by becoming a Patron for just $5/month!
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 3) Pre-Order Now and Enter the Giveaway!
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EPISODE 14: Running Up Solsbury Hill
In this episode, Neal and Lauren dive deep into two iconic works that shaped pop culture. Lauren takes listeners on a journey through So, Peter Gabriel's groundbreaking 1986 album. She explores its experimental sound, innovative collaborations, and social influence, highlighting Gabriel’s approach to music that incorporated diverse voices and global influences. From “Sledgehammer” to “In Your Eyes,” Lauren unpacks the inspiration, talent, and ambition behind each track, revealing why So continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Neal short-circuits at one point and then shares his passion for You've Got Mail [1998] and discusses how Nora Ephron's direction and storytelling captured the essence of romance and New York City. Exploring themes of identity, double lives, and love in the digital age, Neal explains how the movie remains timeless. From the charming dialogue to memorable scenes, it’s a quintessential rom-com that fans of the genre shouldn’t miss.
Episode Prompts: Angel, Fox, 998
E-mail ([email protected]) with an answer to the Rom-Com question in the episode for a chance to win a copy of Neal's book! The Question: What item was Patrick Dempsey's character saving up all summer for in Can't Buy Me Love?
Lauren's Topic:
Peter Gabriel’s So (1986)
Watch the music video for "Sledgehammer"
Listen to So on Spotify
The church that inspired "Your Eyes"
Neal's Topic:
You've Got Mail (1998)
Where to watch the film
Two Ways to Film The Same Scene - Great video on filmmaking!
Support Our Show:
Love the show? Help us keep going by becoming a Patron for just $5/month!
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (out now!)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 3)
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EPISODE 13: The Fragonard of Chicago
On this week's episode, Neal continues his BSE (Big Standing Energy) and tackles Fast Times at Ridgemont High [1982]r, revealing how the film changed the teen comedy landscape. From Sean Penn's iconic stoner Spicoli to Amy Heckerling’s game-changing direction, Neal uncovers the humor and heart in this cult classic. Listen in as he dives into the film’s killer soundtrack, its legacy, and how it paved the way for movies like American Pie and Clueless and has one iconic moment that literally ruined a small segment of the VHS industry.
Then, Lauren takes us on a deep dive into Gerhard Richter's Betty (1988). She explores the photorealistic painting’s air of mystery, discussing how Richter blurs the lines between photography, memory, and reality. Lauren shares fascinating tidbits about Richter's career, his shifting styles, and why Betty is more than just a portrait—it’s a masterpiece that will leave you pondering. Plus, for those wondering
EPISODE 13 PROMPTS:
Back, 82, Red
Neal's Topic:
Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
Dir: Amy Heckerling
Written by: Cameron Crowe
Where to stream the movie
Lauren's Topic:
Gerhard Richter
Betty
1988
See the artwork in person!
Documentary: Gerhard Richter Painting (2011)
Support Our Show:
Love the show? Help us keep going by becoming a Patron for just $5/month!
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Oct 1)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 4)
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In this episode, Neal and Lauren dive headfirst into both the frothy and the fascinating. Lauren kicks things off with a deep exploration of the Rococo art movement, focusing on The Swing by Fragonard. She unpacks its playful eroticism and hidden symbolism, revealing how this seemingly lighthearted artwork hides a web of societal commentary. We learn the difference between cherubs and putti and Lauren guides listeners through the lush visual language that made the Rococo period a lavish statement on beauty and pleasure. Don't miss her sidebar on how Frozen references this classic piece and click the link below to see it. Lauren also goes on a mini-rant about franchises!
Next, Neal shifts gears, tackling the gritty spy drama Slow Horses [Apple TV+]. He explores the humor and humanity behind the show’s dysfunctional MI5 agents, highlighting Gary Oldman's standout performance as the curmudgeonly Jackson Lamb. With a theme song by Mick Jagger and a tone that’s as cynical as it is thrilling, Neal explains how the show blends dark humor with espionage in a way that makes it both gripping and refreshing. Stick around for Neal’s breakdown of the show's unique cinematography and how Slow Horses bucks (get it?) the trend of delayed streaming schedules.
EPISODE 12 PROMPTS:
Froth, 5, Stone
Lauren's Topic:
Jean-Honoré Fragonard
The Swing
1767
Look at the artwork while listening
Frozen reference of The Swing
Neal's Topic:
Slow Horses
Where to stream the show
To see the amazing drone shot, check out the opening of Episode 6 from Season 4!
Support Our Show:
Love the show? Help us keep going by becoming a Patron for just $5/month!
👉 www.patreon.com/curatedbychance
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Oct 1)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 4)
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this week's episode, Neal and Lauren bring a unique blend of personal stories and art history to the forefront. Neal kicks things off from recording live from the backseat of his Buick—hailstorms, train noise, and all—with a hilarious tale of winning Prom King in high school. Neal talks about Silver Bullet (1985), a lesser-known werewolf film based on Stephen King's novella Cycle of the Werewolf. From Gary Busey's improvised lines to the story's unique portrayal of disability, Neal examines what makes this cult classic stand out among horror fans. And don't miss the sidebar on Stephen King's Dollar Baby program, where aspiring filmmakers can adapt King's short stories for just $1—a program that launched the career of Frank Darabont!
Lauren follows up with an in-depth discussion of the British painter Francis Bacon. She unpacks Bacon’s life, struggles, and his fascination with dark themes—perfect for the Halloween season. Neal and Lauren dissect the artist’s obsession with “Screaming Popes,” referencing Bacon's haunting interpretation of Velázquez's Portrait of Pope Innocent X. They dive deep into how Bacon's post-war existentialism and bold artistic choices continue to influence modern art, cinema, and even horror films today. Plus, a discussion of "The Death of the Artist"!
EPISODE 11 PROMPTS:
53, Meat, Splatter
Neal's Topic:
Silver Bullet (1985)
Where to stream the film
Lauren's Topic:
Study after Velázquez's Portrait of Pope Innocent X (1953)
by Francis Bacon
Where to see the artwork
Support Our Show:
Love the show? Help us keep going by becoming a Patron for just $5/month!
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Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Oct 1)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 4)
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
EPISODE 10: You Can't Handle The Puns
In this episode, Neal and Lauren dive into the world of early George Lucas. Lauren gives a playful yet in-depth breakdown of THX 1138, Lucas’s first film, discussing its dystopian themes, the impressive DIY production, and how it laid the groundwork for the iconic Star Wars series. She shares fun production stories, like the bizarre involvement of cult members as extras and the origins of Wookiees!
Neal joins the conversation by highlighting the importance of Walter Murch’s editing philosophy and provides a fascinating look at how Lucas's friendships with legends like Coppola and Spielberg shaped his career. They also go down a rabbit hole of 1970s cinema, comparing THX 1138 to other dystopian classics and exploring its lasting influence on science fiction films. Then Neal jumps forward a few decades to talk about one of his favorite legal thrillers, the iconic A Few Good Men that started as a Broadway play from famed playwright-turned-screenwriter Aaron Sorkin.
EPISODE 9 PROMPTS: Gavel, Slate, 138
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Send us follow-up questions about art or film for our Patreon bonuses!
Lauren's Topic:
THX 1138 (1971)
Where to stream the film
Neal's Topic:
A Few Good Men (1992)
Where to stream the film
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Oct 1)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 4)
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EPISODE 9: The Sands of Time Burn by FISCHER & TAG
In this week's episode, Neal and Lauren explore the wild world of action movies and conceptual art. Lauren recounts an embarrassing Zoom meeting mishap involving a school interview, a microphone, and a sandwich and later breaks down how a banana duct-taped to a wall sold for $120,000 and sparked debates about the nature of art. Neal dives deep into the history of action movies, tracing their evolution from the gritty film noir of the 1940s to the stylized "gun-fu" of the John Wick series. He explains how Taken (2008) revitalized Liam Neeson's career and launched a wave of "dad action" movies. And at the end of the episode, Lauren and Neal decide to create their OWN conceptual art...stay tuned to find out what it is!
EPISODE 9 PROMPTS: Banana, Job, 1060
Support our show by becoming a Patron! Only $5 a month
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Send us follow-up questions about art or film for our Patreon bonuses!
Neal's Topic:
Taken (2008) and a brief evolution of the Action Movie
Where to stream the film
Lauren's Topic:
Maurizio Cattelan's Comedian (2019) and the world of conceptual art
Check it out here
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Oct 1)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 4)
Watch Neal on The Floor, premiering September 25th on Fox/Hulu!
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EPISODE 8: How Often Do You Think About The Roman Empire?
In this week’s episode, Neal and Lauren talk about chaotic spills, ancient art, and dream-like cinema. Neal recounts a history of personal injuries tied to performance days, while Lauren confesses to teaching through the heat of a frenzied classroom. After light-hearted banter, they dive deep into the aesthetics of lost art and surreal filmmaking.
Lauren talks about the history of Greek and Roman sculptures, uncovering the truth about their original painted surfaces and debunking the myth of "white marble perfection." Were these sculptures intentionally white, or did time (and a bit of scrubbing) erase their vibrant past? Neal breaks down Un Chien Andalou (1929), a short film directed by Luis Buñuel and co-written with Salvador Dalí, explaining its significance in avant-garde cinema, its use of dream logic, and how it influenced generations of filmmakers, including Tim Burton and David Lynch. Want to more? Listen and find out!
EPISODE 8 PROMPTS: Antiquity, 29, Gray
Support our show by becoming a Patron! Only $5 a month
www.patreon.com/curatedbychance
Send us follow-up questions about art or film for our Patreon bonuses!
Lauren's Topic:
The truth about Greek and Roman sculpture and art!
Neal's Topic:
Un Chien Andalou (1929) by Luis Buñuel
Watch the film on our Instagram or HERE
He Likes to Chop Down Trees - Film School short Neal studied
Watch legend Robert Osbourne butcher the title of the film HERE
Recommendations:
Lauren: Visit a museum and check out this art and see how you feel now.
Neal: Check out these other great silent films influential to film...
Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans (1927)
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail us: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Pre-order Neal’s next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Oct 1)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 4)
Watch Neal on The Floor, premiering September 25th on Fox/Hulu!
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EPISODE 7: Falling for Lee Pace and Cozy Mysteries
In this week's episode, Neal talks about digital heartbreak and reveals two pieces of good news: his next book comes out October 1st (Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book) and he will be appearing on Season 2 of Fox's The Floor with Rob Lowe. Today Neal talks about an Agatha Christie classic, the origins and brilliance of Hercule Poirot, and why the book is perfect for the fall season. Lauren switches gears and breaks down a movie for the first time, The Fall (2006) highlighting its unique production process, practical sets, breathtaking locations, and what makes it a hidden gem. Does Kenneth Branagh deserve to be in the conversation of best Poirot adaptations ever? Listen and find out!
EPISODE 7 PROMPTS: 69, Eggshell, Fall
Pre-order Neal's next two books!
Christmas Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Oct 1)
Rom-Com Ultimate Trivia Book (releasing Dec 4)
Watch The Floor premiering September 25th on Fox/Hulu
Support our show by becoming a Patron! Only $5 a month
www.patreon.com/curatedbychance
Send us follow-up questions about art or film for our Patreon bonuses!
Neal's Topic:
Hallowe'en Party (1969)
by Agatha Christie
Where to get the book
Poirot TV Series
Lauren's Topic:
The Fall (2006)
Stream the film starting September 27th
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Topics discussed: Agatha Christie, Halloween Party, Hallowe'en Party, Hercule Poirot, David Suchet, Kenneth Branagh, Indie Filmmaking, Tarsem Singh, The Fall (2006), Eiko Ishioka, Practical Effects in Film, Agatha Christie Adaptations, British Mysteries, Classic Mysteries, Halloween Mysteries, Art Direction in Film, Visual Storytelling, Lost Photos, Lawrence of Arabia, Anne V. Coates, Photo Storage, Google Photos, Social Media Marketing, Instagram Content, Patreon Support, Film Recommendations, Gothic Cinema, Limited Location Films, Child Acting, Film Production, Practical Filmmaking, Murder Mysteries, Timeless Movies, Salvador Dali, Ariadne Oliver, Apples
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EPISODE 6: It All Comes Back to Pastry
In today's episode, Neal and Lauren bring fascinating insights into art theory and indie filmmaking. Lauren dives deep into Walter Benjamin's theory of "The Diminishment of the Aura" and explores how it applies to the iconic Mona Lisa. She breaks down the painting's mysterious history, including lesser-known theories about its subject and Da Vinci's artistic mastery. Meanwhile, Neal takes on the world of indie filmmaking, sharing his thoughts on the improvisational sci-fi thriller Coherence (2013). He discusses the innovative ways filmmakers can work with limited budgets and no script and does a deep dive into the Dogma 95 movement and suggests some other limited location movies to check out. Lauren and Neal also coin a new rating system for movies (in the spirit of Siskel & Ebert) by a movie being a Popcorn Movie or a Cheesecake Movie!
EPISODE 6 PROMPTS: 1763, Replica, Indigo
Support our show by becoming a Patron! Only $5 a month. www.patreon.com/curatedbychance
Send us follow-up questions about art or film for our Patreon bonuses!
Lauren's Topic:
Walter Benjamin's Diminishment of the Aura
High Res Scan of the Mona Lisa
Learn more about Da Vinci
Go see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre!
Neal's Topic:
Coherence (2013)
Where to stream the film
Trailer for the film
The film explained by the director
Recommendations:
Lauren
Learn about Art Heists
Read Stealing Rembrandts: The Untold Stories of Notorious Art Heists by Anthony M. Amore
Neal
Check out the movie Moon (2009) starring Sam Rockwell (limited location sci-fi)
Middleditch & Schwartz: Completely Improvised Comedy Specials on Netflix
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Topics discussed: Walter Benjamin, Diminishment of the Aura, Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci, Art History, Renaissance Art, Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Art Theory, Mechanical Reproduction, Louvre Museum, Art Heists, Mona Lisa Theories, Famous Paintings, La Giaconda, Italian Renaissance, Fumato Technique, Eyebrows in Art, Da Vinci Code, Coherence Movie, Indie Film, Independent Filmmaking, Low-Budget Films, Improvisational Filmmaking, Psychological Thriller, Science Fiction Movies, Filmmaking Techniques, Long-form Improv, Limited Location Films, Dogma 95, Lars von Trier, Thomas Vinterberg, TikTok Content Creation, Social Media Marketing, Patreon Support, Shakespeare in Love, Best Picture Controversies, Harvey Weinstein, Best Picture Winners, Tiramisu, Pistachio Desserts, Restaurant Recommendations, Art Criticism, Modern Art, Teaching Art History, Mentoring Students, Branded TikToks, Film Directing, Improvisation in Movies, Creative Freedom in Filmmaking, French Art, Da Vinci’s Masterpieces, Reproduction in Art
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Today's episode goes back to the eighties...well, sort of! Neal decides to move away from film (at least for a few minutes) while talking about the jukebox musical Rock of Ages (2009). He shares fascinating insights about this nostalgic musical and it's film adaptation that features the unlikely musical debut of the biggest movie star in the world. Lauren discusses Frederic Leighton's Flaming June and the beauty of aestheticism in the late 19th century. She delves into Leighton's life and connection to the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and the deeper meaning of women in paintings. Lauren and Neal also come up with new ways of reviewing theatre and quote a member of Wu-Tang Clan to describe our connection to the world of art. All that and more on the fifth episode of Curated by Chance. What would YOU have done with the prompts?
EPISODE 5 PROMPTS:
Orange, Actor, 700, Honey
Support our show by becoming a Patron! Only $5 a month.
www.patreon.com/curatedbychance
Send us follow-up questions or questions relating to Art & Film for our Patreon Bonuses!
Neal's Topic:
Rock of Ages
Where to stream the original Broadway cast album
Learn more about the show
Stream the film adaptation starring Tom Cruise
Lauren's Topic:
Frederic Leighton
Flaming June
1895
Where to see the art
Where to learn more about the painting
Learn more about Leighton
RECOMMENDATIONS:
& Juliet (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
LAUREN'S HOMEWORK:
Go check out some Victorian Art!
Check out Only Murders in the Building
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Topics discussed: Jukebox musicals, Broadway, Off-Broadway, Constantine Maroulis, Kyle Gass, Laura Bell Bundy, Legally Blonde, 1980s, Rock of Ages, Tom Cruise, Frederic Leighton, Flaming June, Victorian Art, Greco-Roman, Aesthetic Movement, Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Art History, Musical Theatre, Film, Adaptations, Madonna, Lactation, Grapes of Wrath, Wu-Tang Clan, Abba, Mamma Mia!, Only Murders in the Building, Big Night
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Get ready for a thrilling journey underwater and through Japan and New York City in Episode 4 of Curated by Chance! Hosts Neal and Lauren tackle an eclectic mix of topics that blend art history and cinematic suspense. This week, Lauren takes us through the fascinating life and works of Yayoi Kusama, the avant-garde queen of polka dots. From her early struggles in Japan to her rise as an influential artist in New York, Lauren sheds light on Kusama’s unique artistic vision, including her iconic Infinity Nets and her collaboration with Louis Vuitton. Meanwhile, Neal dives into the tension-filled world of 1990s cinema with a breakdown of Crimson Tide (1995). Learn about the powerhouse performances by Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington, the intense mutiny aboard a nuclear submarine, and the genius of director Tony Scott.
Stay tuned as the duo navigates the themes of creativity, conflict, and collaboration in both the art world and film industry. Plus, discover how Kusama's personal battles shaped her groundbreaking works, and what makes Crimson Tide a quintessential dad movie full of suspense and moral dilemmas.
EPISODE 4 PROMPTS:
Red, 450, Failure
Support our show by becoming a Patron!
www.patreon.com/curatedbychance
Send us follow-up questions or questions relating to Art & Film for our Patreon Bonuses!
Neal's Topic:
Crimson Tide (1995) -
Where to stream the film
Where to buy the film
Lauren's Topic:
The Work of Yayoi Kusama
Where to see the art
Where to learn more about Kusama
Kusama: Infinity - Documentary
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Adventure Zone Podcast
My Brother, My Brother and Me Podcast
The Rest is Entertainment Podcast
All About Agatha (Christie) Podcast
Hoge & Jahns: Chicago Bears Podcast
LAUREN'S HOMEWORK:
12 Places To Find Infinity Rooms
NEAL'S HOMEWORK:
If you like Gene Hackman, check out Night Moves:
Trailer for Night Moves (1975)
Tony Scott: An Artist of Pure Cinema - Scott's style and influence
Follow the show and its creators on Instagram:
The Show - @curatedbychance
Lauren - @paisleylo
Neal - @nealefischer
E-mail: [email protected]
Hear Neal each week on Triviality Podcast. Subscribe now!
Listen to Lauren on Miss Information Podcast! Subscribe now!
Topics discussed: Yayoi Kusama, Infinity Rooms, Avant-Garde Art, Polka Dots, Crimson Tide (1995), Gene Hackman, Denzel Washington, Tony Scott, Film Direction, Art Commercialization, Artistic Struggles, Submarine Movies, Mutiny in Cinema, 90s Blockbusters, Biography, Influence, Art Installations, Mental Health, Creativity, Louis Vuitton, Submarines, Dad Movies, Underwater, Quentin Tarantino, Robert Towne, Steve Zaillian, Silver Spoons, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Inside Man, Spike Lee
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