The B-Side Episode 174 – James Stewart (featuring Mitchell Beaupre)

      The B-Side Ep. 174 – James Stewart (with Mitchell Beaupre)

      Welcome to The B-Side! In this podcast, we discuss movie stars—not the films that initially brought them fame or those that kept them in the spotlight, but rather the lesser-known projects they took on in between.

      Today, we explore the quintessential American and one of the most memorable movie stars: James Stewart!

      Joining us again is our good friend Mitchell Beaupre, Head of Editorial at Letterboxd. This episode’s B-Sides feature films such as Vivacious Lady, You Gotta Stay Happy, No Highway in the Sky, The Far Country, and Fools’ Parade.

      We delve into what made Stewart so relatable and beloved by many, reflect on his service during World War II and its impact on his on-screen presence, and recognize that while he starred in numerous westerns, most people still associate him closely with George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life.

      Mitchell, Conor, and I discuss the remarkable films he collaborated on with Anthony Mann, the later projects he worked on with Andrew V. McLaglen, and his early leading roles.

      Additionally, we touch on how he was a consistent box office draw for many years, a notorious ladies' man in his youth, and a committed conservative throughout his life.

      We also mention the much-discussed trailer for the upcoming James Stewart biopic, which, to put it mildly, does not look promising.

      Listen below and be sure to subscribe here. Don’t forget to follow us on Bluesky at @tfsbside.bsky.social. Enjoy!