Andrẽs Merlos is a comedian/filmmaker in the Chicago area. His latest film, 'Coconut Cruise', just had it's premiere debut a week before today! Get in contact and maybe you'll be another one of those lucky souls to see it first. 😉 In this episode, we discuss the importance of how we guide and influence children, how Andrẽs is training for the 2025 Chicago Marathon, the need to bring back reggae music, why practical effects are always best in film, the importance of a cross-country road trip, how the movie industry has changed over the years, what makes a good director, and much more! 🔥 As always, thank you for watching. New episodes of Ruse Radio always coming soon. 💖 ___

TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 - Introduction 0:26 - Andres discusses his creative pursuits 0:57 - The healing power of music 1:45 - Transcendence in performing music 2:46 - Positive vibes in music and favorite genres 3:53 - Discussion on uplifting vs. depressing music 5:02 - Critique of modern "depression music" 6:08 - Nostalgia and potential reggae revival 7:12 - Talking about travel experiences in the U.S. 9:14 - Reflecting on road trip adventures 11:12 - The thrill and lessons of driving cross-country 13:20 - Sharing wild and crazy life stories 14:04 - A fight outside a strip club 15:01 - Near-death experiences and their impact 16:18 - Life happening to you vs. happening to life 17:43 - Embracing individuality and self-expression 19:06 - Social media culture and setting boundaries 20:40 - Preparing for a marathon and training plans 23:54 - Challenges of running in different weather 26:33 - The benefits and mindset of running 28:52 - Breathing techniques for endurance running 30:54 - Stair climbing and other unique challenges 32:37 - The psychological benefits of running 34:08 - Brainstorming creative film ideas 38:00 - Movie industry trends and originality 42:01 - The shift in scriptwriting and filmmaking 45:08 - Andres discusses directing and filmmaking process 48:49 - "Coconut Cruise" – A stoner comedy project 51:16 - Inspirations and directing styles 54:15 - Reflecting on famous artists and their legacies 57:00 - Kanye West’s authenticity and creative genius 1:02:00 - Moral dilemma: separating art from the artist 1:07:12 - The Kardashians, rumors, and cultural impact 1:08:57 - Creepy dolls, childhood fears, and Chucky's legacy 1:09:55 - Hidden messages in kids' media 1:10:20 - The impact of toxic behaviors on children 1:12:10 - The philosophy of love and discipline in relationships and parenting 1:13:40 - Supporting children’s individuality and personal growth 1:15:30 - Funny classroom anecdotes about toddlers 1:16:50 - Kids' different learning and development styles 1:19:00 - Reflections on appreciating childhood and connecting with kids 1:20:45 - Nature vs. nurture and inherited traits from parents 1:23:40 - Genetics and familial resemblance 1:25:30 - Cultural fascination with superheroes and supernatural powers 1:27:50 - Hollywood 1:30:50 - Influence of horror media on society 1:34:00 - Funny horror movie scenes and their cultural impact 1:37:30 - Behind-the-scenes stories about making horror films 1:39:20 - The use of practical effects in filmmaking 1:42:00 - How directors manage scenes and performances 1:45:30 - The importance of experimentation and patience in art 1:48:10 - The psychology of serial killers and their patterns 1:50:30 - Mafia stories and their gruesome realities 1:53:00 - Prison survival tactics and humor in media depictions 1:57:10 - Comedy as a reflection of society through SNL 2:01:10 - Cancel culture and its effects on creativity 2:05:30 - Life lessons from working with kids 2:10:30 - Embracing creativity and self-expression 2:14:00 - Conclusion and reflections