Podcast Summary: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert Episode: Julia Garner | Stats All Folks
Release Date: August 5, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert welcomes three-time Emmy Award-winning actress Julia Garner. Known for her standout performances in series like Ozark and Inventing Anna, as well as her role in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Garner joins Colbert to discuss her latest film, Weapons.

Discussion About "Weapons"

Film Overview and Description

Colbert initiates the conversation by delving into Garner's new project, Weapons. He inquires about the film's premise, to which Garner responds:

“How do I describe Weapons? I mean, it's not like anything I've ever seen or read before. So it's kind of... it's really hard to describe. You just kind of have to watch it. It’s like a Marvel movie. You can't really describe it. It's very cryptic.”
[17:03]

She emphasizes the film's unique and cryptic nature, likening it to the complexity often found in Marvel movies.

Character Development and Inspirations

Colbert probes deeper into Garner's character, a teacher navigating the tumultuous events of the film. Garner shares her inspirations:

“It was a combination. I grew up. My father was a teacher, my sister's a teacher. So a lot of people in my family are teachers.”
[18:00]

She credits her familial background for shaping her portrayal, mentioning insights from her sister who provided "teacher prompts" to help develop her character's demeanor and mannerisms.

Co-Starring with Josh Brolin

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Garner's experience working alongside Josh Brolin, who many recognize for his role as Thanos in the Marvel Universe.

“He is a limited edition and he's the best.”
[18:55]

Garner recounts the camaraderie on set:

“We had so much fun and so many giggles and there's no one like him, that's for sure.”
[18:51]

Colbert highlights Brolin's ability to maintain a light atmosphere even in intense filming environments:

“It seems like he would be able to keep the vibes pretty light.”
[19:05]

Garner elaborates on Brolin's professionalism and the enjoyable filming experience:

“It was really crazy because I remember we had such a good time filming this and I remember thinking like, this feels almost like too good.”
[19:14]

Acting Process and Character Preparation

The conversation shifts to Garner's preparation for portraying a character in a Marvel-esque setting—the Silver Surfer in The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Physical Preparation and Stunts

Colbert playfully questions Garner about the physical demands of playing a super-powered character:

“Are you digitally jacked, or did you...?”
[22:06]

Garner clarifies:

“No, I'm jacked. Like, I have to do that I can barely open a water bottle? Like I'm not.”
[22:04]

She discusses the blend of surfing and dance moves required for her role:

“It's like a lot of surfing and posing. It's like... It's Marvel surfing, whatever that means.”
[23:28]

Despite the fantastical elements, Garner admits her apprehensions:

“No, no. I have to be driving a car.”
[21:38]
“I'm really afraid of the ocean.”
[23:32]

Surfing Skills and On-Set Experiences

Garner shares her limited surfing background, having grown up in New York City, and the lessons she undertook to convincingly portray a surfer:

“I grew up in New York City. We didn't even have... We didn't even have like a field, like field day was in Central Park.”
[22:50]
“We had a surf instructor and I took some surfing lessons. So I could... I like to prep, but...”
[23:06]

Personal Insights and Challenges

Garner opens up about her personal challenges, particularly dealing with anxiety:

“I have so much anxiety every day. So. Yes. Yes.”
[16:41]

Colbert empathizes, sharing his own experiences of anxiety induced by cold weather:

“I can't feel my fingers.”
[24:16]

This exchange highlights Garner's candidness and relatability, offering listeners a glimpse into the actor's personal life beyond the screen.

Interaction with Josh Brolin's Influence

The episode takes a humorous turn as Colbert and Garner discuss the phenomenon of Josh Brolin sending lengthy video messages, a running joke between them.

“He sends me. And I've showed some of them on the show. He sends me. And I'm honored that he does.”
[19:44]
“Yeah. I send you video messages. I kind of thought I was the only one, too.”
[20:05]

Garner expresses the pressure of responding to Brolin's messages:

“It's a lot of pressure to send Josh Brolin a message. [...] I freeze up and I get stage fright.”
[21:33]

This lighthearted banter adds a playful dynamic to the interview, showcasing the friendly rapport between the host and his guest.

Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Colbert invites listeners to watch Weapons in theaters on Friday, providing details about its release and availability.

“Weapons is in theaters Friday. Julia Garner, everybody.”
[24:43]

He also promotes additional content related to the show and encourages audience engagement through various channels.

Notable Quotes

• Julia Garner on Weapons:

  “It's very cryptic. You just kind of have to watch it.”
  [17:03]

• On Working with Josh Brolin:

  “He is a limited edition and he's the best.”
  [18:55]

• On Preparing for the Role:

  “We had a surf instructor and I took some surfing lessons.”
  [23:06]

• On Personal Challenges:

  “I have so much anxiety every day. So. Yes. Yes.”
  [16:41]

Conclusion

This episode offers an engaging and insightful conversation with Julia Garner, delving into her latest cinematic ventures, personal experiences, and the nuances of her craft. Through humorous exchanges and candid discussions, listeners gain a deeper appreciation of Garner's talent and dedication to her roles.

For More Content:
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