Podcast Summary: "Andrew Reich – An Emmy Award Winner and His Directorial Debut"

Podcast Information:

• Title: takin' a walk
• Host: Buzz Knight, iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Andrew Reich – An Emmy Award Winner and His Directorial Debut
• Release Date: February 4, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In this captivating episode of "takin' a walk," host Buzz Knight delves into the creative journey of Andrew Reich, an Emmy Award-winning television writer and executive producer famed for his work on the iconic sitcom Friends. Reich shares his transition from the bustling world of network television to the intimate and challenging realm of documentary filmmaking, culminating in his directorial debut, "Born Innocent: The Red Cross Story." This documentary unravels the compelling history of the punk band Red Cross, offering fans and newcomers alike a profound look into the band's enduring legacy.

Andrew Reich’s Background and Inspiration

Andrew Reich begins by discussing his long-standing admiration for Red Cross, tracing his fandom back to high school in 1984 when he first encountered their EP, They're Teen Babes from Monsanto. As Reich reminisces, he highlights, "I didn't hear any of the songs because I didn't listen to Kiss or the Stones," reflecting his deep-rooted passion for the punk and hardcore scenes that Red Cross epitomized ([05:36]).

The spark for his documentary ignited unexpectedly when Reich listened to Steve McDonald of Red Cross recount an abduction story on Damien Abraham’s punk podcast. Inspired, Reich shared his vision with his wife, prompting him to leap into filmmaking despite having no prior experience in documentaries. He notes, "I wasn't a director or documentary filmmaker, but I've been a writer in TV for 25 years" ([05:36]).

Transitioning from Television to Documentary Filmmaking

Reich elaborates on how his extensive experience in television, particularly his time writing and producing for Friends, equipped him with valuable storytelling skills that translated into his documentary work. He explains, “Knowing Red Cross and knowing Jeff and Steve… you’re a music person, you know, when you find someone who speaks the language” ([10:10]).

He emphasizes the importance of brevity and pacing learned from network TV, striving to keep his documentary under 90 minutes to maintain viewer engagement. “I wanted the movie to be under 90 minutes… It's got to be like this movie living on a streaming service somewhere” ([10:23]).

Challenges in Creating "Born Innocent"

One of the most significant challenges Reich faced was sourcing archival footage and authentic material to authentically portray Red Cross’s journey. Describing the process, he shares, “It took like seven years to make… I was finding really great stuff, right up until the end” ([31:05]).

Reich recounts the meticulous effort involved in sifting through VHS tapes, coordinating with band members, and reaching out to other fans and musicians for rare footage and photographs. A notable breakthrough was obtaining color photos of Red Cross's first show, a rare find since most existing images were black and white. “There's slides in a box somewhere… all the main photographers were shooting black and white” ([31:05]).

Insights on Red Cross’s Impact and Legacy

Throughout the documentary, Reich uncovers Red Cross's profound influence on various musical movements, notably the Seattle grunge scene and Britpop. He explains, “When Kurt Cobain's there and the opening bands are Green River and Soundgarden… every major figure that’s going to be in this huge thing… they all agree like, this band is incredible” ([26:06]).

Reich highlights how Red Cross bridged the gap between punk rock and metal, fostering unity among diverse musical groups. "Red Cross… has fans in all kinds of places… the Extent of that, how the Red Cross fans kind of come out of the W is really cool" ([20:18]).

Collaborative Experience with the McDonald Brothers

Working closely with Jeff and Steve McDonald, the core members of Red Cross, Reich describes a harmonious and supportive collaboration. He recounts how accessible and enthusiastic the brothers were, facilitating connections with other influential musicians and maintaining a cooperative atmosphere throughout the filmmaking process. “They were so engaged and cooperative… they get it, you got to make your movie” ([36:09]).

Despite initial hesitations, especially concerning sensitive topics like Steve’s abduction, Reich successfully elicited heartfelt and honest responses from their parents, enriching the narrative. “They were quite nervous in that interview… But they loved the movie” ([16:06]).

The Documentary’s Release and Future Endeavors

"Born Innocent: The Red Cross Story" is set for a phased release, starting with indie screenings and gradually expanding to broader platforms. Reich emphasizes the importance of word-of-mouth promotion and plans to make the documentary available for rent or purchase on the film’s official website, RedCrossFilm.com, before potentially partnering with major streaming services.

Looking ahead, Reich contemplates his next projects, balancing his day job in TV with the desire to continue documenting influential yet underrepresented musical stories. He reflects, “There’s something about making one about a band where they’re still alive… endless amused and fascinated by them” ([35:49]).

Conclusion

This episode of "takin' a walk" offers an intimate glimpse into Andrew Reich’s passionate endeavor to bring Red Cross's story to the forefront. Reich’s dedication to authenticity, combined with his storytelling prowess honed from decades in television, culminates in a documentary that not only celebrates Red Cross’s musical legacy but also explores the broader cultural and historical contexts of their influence. Listeners are left inspired by Reich’s unwavering commitment to his craft and the enduring impact of a band that continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Buzz Knight ([05:36]): "I didn't listen to Kiss or the Stones, I really, the first music I paid attention to was punk rock and then hardcore."

• Andrew Reich ([10:23]): “I wanted the movie to be under 90 minutes… It’s got to be like this movie living on a streaming service somewhere.”

• Andrew Reich ([26:06]): “When Kurt Cobain's there and the opening bands are Green River and Soundgarden… they all agree like, this band is incredible.”

• Andrew Reich ([35:49]): “There’s something about making one about a band where they’re still alive… endlessly amused and fascinated by them.”

Connect with the Podcast: "takin' a walk" is available on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Buzz Knight for more engaging conversations that traverse the rich tapestry of music history.