The Mark Hastings Experience

In this episode Mark reads three of his most recent poems: "It's A Boy!", "Frozen Tears", and "Always". Mark also attempts to share a message of hope for those who like most of the world are struggling with living their life as best as they can during the challenging times the people of the world are currently facing.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films and the first film that he remembers seeing in a cinema as a child: the 1989 film "Batman" directed by Tim Burton. Based upon the DC Comics character of the same name, "Batman" redefined not only the superhero genre of films but its depiction of the "Dark Knight" refined how people interpreted who the character is and it also examined the tragic psychological burdens that he daily suffers with which compel the character of Bruce Wayne/Batman to continuously decide to don the cowl and become a crime fighter and a symbol of justice within the occasionally uncivilised city of Gotham City. The film stars Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne/Batman, Jack Nicholson as the Joker, Kim Bassinger as Vicki Vale, Michael Gough as Alfred Pennyworth, Billy Dee Williams as Harvey Dent, as well as several other great actors in memorable roles. "Batman", like "Superman: The Movie" before it, changed how audiences saw superheroes and revitalized the potential of superhero movies with its relative realistic depiction of extreme characters, places, and situations mixed with thought-provoking storytelling, that would come to revitalize and inspire an entire generation to once again become enthralled by the character of the "Batman".

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1978 superhero film "Superman: The Movie" directed by Richard Donner - written by Mario Puzo, David Newman, Leslie Newman, and Robert Benton - based upon the DC Comics character of the same name. The film stars an ensemble cast of phenomenonal actors, including: Christopher Reeve, Marlon Brando, Gene Hackman, Margot Kidder, Jackie Cooper, Terence Stamp, and many others. The story of the film depicts the origin of Superman, his infacy, his youth in the rural town of Smallville, and while disguised as mild-mannered reporter Clark Kent his double life, his bejourning romance with Lois Lane, and his battle against the diabolical villain Lex Luther. A favourite film of Mark's since he was a child, "Superman: The Movie" has inspired him in so many ways over the course of his life - and now, just as when he was a child - whenever he watches the film again he once again believes in the possibility that a man could fly - as the tagine of the film accurately boasts.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1986 coming-of-age film "Stand by Me" directed by Rob Reiner, based on Stephen King's 1982 novella 'The Body'. Starring Wil Wheaton as Gordie LaChance (aged 12), River Phoenix as Chris Chambers, Corey Feldman as Teddy Duchamp, Jerry O'connell as Vern Tessio, and Keifer Sutherland as John 'Ace' Merrill, the story of "Stand by Me" revolves around four boys in 1959 Castle Rock, Oregon, who go on a hike to find the dead body of a missing boy. Richard Dreyfuss also stars as the older Gordie LaChance - who also serves as the film's narrator - who after hearing of the tragic death of a childhood friend reflects back upon the memories and the unforgettable experiences that he shared with his friends during the Labor Day holiday weekend in 1959.

In this Marvel Cinematic Universe themed episode Mark talks about the 2012 American superhero film "The Avengers" (also known as "Avengers Assemble" in the UK) - written and directed by Joss Whedon. In this ensemble film, which was the first to feature many prominent Marvel characters from other Marvel films who also featured within the pages of Marvel Comics over the decades, "The Avengers" brings together "Earth's Mightiest Heroes" to face off against a powerful interstellar threat lead by Thor's brother Loki. Starring an all-star cast - including Robert Downey Jr, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, Jeremy Renner, and Tom Hiddelston - "The Avengers" paved the way for all the other Marvel Cinematic Universe to follow, and also showed that with great characters, great writing, great directing, great special effects, a truly epic superhero film could be produced that would become the benchmark for all others to follow.

In this episode Mark talks about the British dystopian science fiction anthology TV series "Black Mirror" created by Charlie Brooker. Made up of standalone episodes (which are alluded to all take part within the same fictional narrative universe) each of which examine humanities ever-evolving and over-dependant relationship with ever more advanced forms of technology, and dramatises questions such as: to what end society may become influenced in the actions that they choose to make in the future because of the overabundance of technology. Often told with a dark and satirical tone, and often dealing with controversial and contemporary subject matters, each episode of the series explores who humanity is and why some people are motivated to do what they do no matter the cost to themselves.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films of the last few years: the 2019 comedy-drama film "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" written and directed by Quentin Tarantino. Set in 1969 Los Angeles, the film follows the fading career of character actor Rick Dalton (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double Cliff Booth (played by Brad Pitt) as they navigate the changing film industry. Set against the backdrop of real life events - such as the real life murder of film actress Sharon Tate (played in the film by Margot Robbie) - the film perfectly interweaves events fiction and fact as it tells an alternative tale of what might have been if Charles Manson and his followers had not been allowed to carry out their psychopathic and murderous acts. Featuring a star-studded cast and a memorable soundtrack, the film also serves as a tribute to cinema, television, and the golden age of Hollywood.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: 2010 American psychological horror thriller film "Black Swan" directed by Darren Aronofsky. Starring Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, and Winona Ryder - the film revolves a production of Tchaikovsky's 'Swan Lake' ballet by the New York City Ballet company, and it shows the psychological and physical trauma that obsessive dancer Nina (played by Natalie Portman) goes through in the process of attempting to embody and perfectly perform the dual role of both the fragile White Swan and the sensual Black Swan.

In this Marvel themed episode Mark talks about the 2011 American Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) superhero film "Captain America: The First Avenger" directed by Joe Johnston and written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, starring Chris Evans the title character Captain America/Steve Rogers. Set during World War II, the film is an origin story for the title character as well as the starting off point for several familiar characters whose importance within the overall story of the "Infinity War saga" of the MCU would grow as more films were produced and as the interconnectness of the story being told was more fleshed-out. The film also stars Hayley Atwell as Agent Peggy Carter, Hugo Weaving as Johann Schimdt/Red Skull, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes, Dominic Cooper as Howard Stark, Tommy Lee Jones as Chester Philips, Stanley Tucci as Abraham Erskine, as well as many other great actors who give phenomenonal performances as memorable characters.

In this episode Mark talks about the 2020 American coming-of-age period drama "The Queen's Gambit" created for Netflix by Scott Frank and Allan Scott, based on the 1983 novel of the same name by Walter Trevis. Set in the late-1950s to the late-1960s, the miniseries of 7 episodes stars Anna Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon - an orphaned chess prodigy with exceptional visualisation skills who rises to the top of the chess world, but who also struggles with drug and alcohol dependency, as well as the on again/off again relationships and friendships that she develops with other gifted chess players in their own right whom she meets along the way.

In this episode Mark talks about one of the most acclaimed trilogies in motion picture history: "The Godfather trilogy", directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Split into three individual Parts, "The Godfather" series follows the trials and the tribulations of the fictional American Corleone mafia family, depicting both the rise of the patriarch of the family, Vito Corleone (played by Marlon Brando), as well as his son, Michael Corleone (Al Pacino), and the series of costs that befall them and their family as they engage in matters of greed, money, curruption, and violence with rival organised crime families and adversaries who secretly conspire against them. Mark talks about the lasting legacy, the importance, and the influence that "The Godfather" films and their characters have had on other forms of media which tackle the subject of organised crime, as well as the many fans of the film series that there are all around the world.

In this episode Mark does a review of the third season of the exceptional American martial arts comedy drama television series "Cobra Kai" and he highlights some of the events that take place within the 10 episodes of Season 3 and the great character defining moments that occur - including some prominent cameos from some memorable characters from the "Karate Kid" film series.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1982 science fiction film "E.T. - the Extra-Terrestrial" produced and directed by Steven Spielberg - which tells the story of Elliot, a 10 year-old boy, who befriends an extraterrestrial, dubbed "E.T.", who is stranded on Earth after their spacecraft accidentally leaves them while they are conducting a secret botanical specimen mission near a California forest. "E.T - the Extra-Terrestrial" is a firm family favourite for all generations and is widely regarded as being one of the greatest films ever made. The film stars Henry Thomas as Elliot, Dee Wallace as Mary (Elliot's mother), Drew Barrymore as Gertie (Elliot's younger sister), Robert MacNaughton as Michael (Elliot's older brother), and Peter Coyote as Keys (a government agent attempting to capture E.T.). The story of the film revolves around the strong bond and friendship that develops between Elliot and E.T. as well the efforts that are undertaken by Elliot, his siblings, and his friends to contact and reunite E.T. with his people.

In this episode Mark talks about the 2020 American computer-animated fantasy comedy-drama Pixar film "Soul", directed by Pete Docter and co-directed by Kemp Powers - which follows a middle school music teacher named Joe Gardner, who seeks to reunite his soul with his body after they are accidentally separated, just before his big break as a Jazz musician. The film is funny and entertaining, and also explores deep and profound subjects - such as purpose, identity, fulfilment, and the profound influence and impact that music can have on people. "Soul" was first released worldwide on the streaming service Disney+ on December 25th 2020 and has already garnered positive reviews and praise from critics and viewers alike for its story, its animation, its voice acting, and for its soundtrack of amazing music.

In this episode Mark recites his Christmas themed short story "The Man in Red" from his 2018 book "Playing God" - which centres around a protagonist known for being a "man in black" and who is also known for helping as many people as he can, wherever he can, whenever he can, by using the gifts of a god and by being a source of hope and optimism wherever he goes.

In another Star Wars themed episode Mark talks about the 1983 epic science-fiction/fantasy film: "Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi" directed by Richard Marquand and written by Lawrence Kasdan George Lucas. The film is last film of the "Original Trilogy" of Star Wars films starring Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia, Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca, Anthony Daniels as C3PO, Kenny Baker as R2D2, Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calarision, Alec Guiness as Obi-wan Kenobi, and which introduced the menacing Emporer Palpatine played by Ian McDiarmid. The film introduces characters and plot points that would recur and become staples of all the stories set within the Star Wars universe in every form of media. Within the story of "Return of the Jedi" we witness the ongoing struggle of a father and a son - Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker and Luke Skywalker - as they attempt to stay upon their opposing sides, while all the while being manipulated by the embodiment of the dark side of the force, as they fulfil their destiny to bring galactic balance and bring an end to the ongoing galactic conflict.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the epic 2000 historical drama film "Gladiator" directed by Ridley Scott and written by David Franzoni, John Logan, and William Nicholson. "Gladiator" stars Russell Crowe as Roman General Maximus Decimus Meridius, who is betrayed when Commodus, played by Joaquin Phoenix - the ambitious son of Emporer Marcus Aurelius - murders his father and seizes the throne. Seeking to expose Commudus' murder of Marcus Aurelius, Maximus sets upon a path of revenge and redemption, following the murder of his wife and his son, and is reduced to slavery - however he eventually becomes a gladiator who rises in popularity in the eyes of the crowds and before long Maximus and Commudus must face each other within the arena of the Colleseum in order to decide the fate of Rome itself.

In this episode Mark does a review of the Season Finale of "The Mandalorian" - Season 2, Episode 8: "The Rescue" - in which there is a rescue attempted to save Grogu (The Child) from Moff Gideon (played Giancarlo Espisito) by The Mandalorian, Din Jarin (played by Pedro Pascal), and a group of allies that he has assembled... and there is also the return of a Jedi who seeks to help Grogu in his own way.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films and one of his favourite films to watch at Christmas: the 1990 American Christmas family comedy film "Home Alone" - which stars Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern as Harry and Marv (burglars the "Wet Bandits"), John Heard as Peter McCallister (Kevin's father), and Catherine O'Hara as Kate McCallister (Kevin's mother). "Home Alone" has been a staple of Christmas for Mark and his family, as well as for many families, since its innitial release because of the entertaining way that it conveys the likelihood of how a resourceful eight year-old boy - in this case Kevin McCallister - might cope following his family accidentally leaving him home alone to fend for himself, as well as fend off the threat of two burglars with intentions on the contents of his family home. A great film for all ages, "Home Alone" just gets better with age - and for someone like Mark the film also serves as a doorway to his childhood and the many fond memories that he still recalls of watching "Home Alone" with his family every Christmas.

In this episode Mark talks about the 2011 Marvel Cinematic Universe film "Thor" directed by Kenneth Branaugh and starring Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Natalie Portman as Jane Foster, Tom Hiddleston as Loki, and Anthony Hopkins as Odin. The film was one of the first to introduce the characters of Thor, Loki, and Odin to a wider audience - all of whom are live-action depictions of the same characters from Marvel Comics, which were all inspired from characters from Norse Mythology. This film is one about character, worthiness, angst, and growth for the title character and how he learns to be a better person and a better God of Thunder as a result because of his timely meeting with a mortal woman whom he comes to care for and fall in love with. The film also deals with such subjects as sibling rivalry, friendship, and why it is sometimes necessary to respect the wishes of your elders because in doing so that might be the only way to ensure that peace between two people can be sustained.

In this episode Mark talks about the 2015 film "Room" directed Lenny Abrahamsom and written by Emma Donoghue, based upon her novel of the same name. The film is about a 24-year-old woman, Joy Newsome (played by Brie Larson), who has been held captive for seven years and who has been forced to care for her 5-year-old son, Jack (played by Jacob Tremblay), who was born in captivity, and who struggles to live as best as they are able to while continuing to be imprisoned day after day within the confines of a 10-foot by 10-foot shed, with only a skylight for a window, which they simply refer to as "room". The film deals with such profoundly disturbing subjects as physical and psychological abuse, rape, abduction, trauma, forced captivity, as well as dramatising the truly agonising reality for people who daily have to suffer because of, and at the hands of, an abusive person. The film stars Brie Larson as Joy "Ma" Newsome, Jacob Tremblay as Jack Newsome, Joan Allen as Nancy Newsome, William H. Macy as Robert Newsome, Tom McCamus as Leo, and Sean Bridges as "Old Nick". And in Mark's opinion, "Room " is one of the most moving films he has ever seen and he recommends that everybody watch it or read the novel which it is based upon, because not only is the premise heartbreaking, as well as inspiring, but the acting all throughout is absolutely incredible - most notably Brie Larson as Joy Newsome/Ma and Jacob Tremblay as Jack Newsome and their astounding individual as well as collective, not to mention believable, performances.

In this episode Mark does a review of the latest episode of "The Mandalorian" - Season 2, Episode 7: "The Believer", in which we follow Din Jarin (The Mandalorian) and his newly assembled team attempting to seek out a means to find the location of where Moff Gideon is holding Grogu (The Child/Baby Yoda) captive with the help on an ex-Imperial Officer, Mayfeld (Bill Burr), who The Mandalorian has a recent history with.

In another "Star Wars" themed episode Mark talks about one of his favourite "Star Wars" films: "Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back" - directed by Irvin Kershner and written by Leigh Blackett and Lawrence Kasdan, based on a story by George Lucas, which is set three years after the events of "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" and centres around the Galactic Empire, led by Darth Vader, hunting down the Rebel Alliance, in particular Luke Skywalker - as well as Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Chewbacca. This film is a seminal film in the "Star Wars" series of movies, as well as a revolutionary film in motion picture history, because of the way that it not only introduced new characters that have become important to the stories set in the "Star Wars" galaxy - such as Jedi Master Yoda, Lando Calarision, Boba Fett, and Emperor Palpatine - it also expanded upon the mythology of the original "Star Wars" film and set the standard for everything that still informs what "Star Wars" is to this day.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite TV shows: the American comedy-drama detective mystery television series "Monk", created by Andy Breckman, starring Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk who is a former homicide detective and a consultant for the San Francisco Police department who has an extreme case of OCD as well as many fears and phobias that he has to daily deal with. "Monk" ran for 8 seasons - from 2002 to 2009 - and continues to have a cult-following around the world, because of the light-hearted police procedural premise of the series as well as the engaging and entertaining characters and the actors who portray them. The series stars Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk, Bitty Schram (seasons 1-3) as Sharona Fleming, Traylor Howard as Natalie Teeger (seasons 3-8), Ted Levine as Captain Leland Stottlemeyer, Jason Gray-Stanford as Lieutenant Randy Disher - as well as many other amazing actors who have played memorable characters, some of whom recur throughout the series. The series is joyful, heart-warming, entertaining, funny, and sometimes harrowing - especially when the character of Adrian Monk is seen struggling to find more clues to aid him in solving the overarching mystery of the show that revolves around his wife, Trudy, and her apparent murder.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1979 science fiction horror film "Alien", directed by Ridley Scott. The premise of the film revolves around the crew of the commercial space tug 'Nostromo', who encounter the eponymous Alien - a deadly and aggressive extraterrestrial Xenomorph that gets set loose on the ship and subsequently terrorises and attempts to eliminate the crew one by one. The film stars Tom Skerritt as Captain Dallas, Sigourney Weaver as Warrant Officer Ellen Ripley - who is the main protagonist of the Alien film franchise - as well as John Hurt as Kane and Ian Holm as Ash. Since its innitial release the film has garnered positive reviews and it still continues to be well regarded as one of the best films ever made. The story of "Alien" and the character of Ellen Ripley has been continued in many forms, including several motion picture sequels - and both "Alien" and Sigourney Weaver's Ripley are often sighted for revolutionising the science fiction/horror genre through its depiction of a strong female protagonist, the exception practical special effects, and the tension that is generated by the action set pieces which drive the film's story from beginning to end.

In this episode Mark talks about the Marvel Cinematic Universe film "Iron Man 2" - the 2010 sequel to the 2008 "Iron Man" - which once again stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man facing off against a new threat who wishes to enact revenge on him as result of his late father seemingly being betrayed by Tony Stark's father Howard Stark - while Tony struggles with his own ailing health. The film sees the first appearance of Scarlett Johansson as the character Black Widow and reintroduces Samuel L. Jackson as the enigmatic Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. Nick Fury - who would both become integral characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe going forward.

In this episode Mark does a review of the latest episode of "The Mandalorian": Season 2, Episode 6: "The Tragedy" - in which a fan-favorite returns, The Child is put in mortal danger, everything is thrown in chaos, and new allegiances are made.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1998 American romantic fantasy "City of Angels", directed Brad Silberling and starring Nicholas Cage and Meg Ryan. Set in Los Angeles, California, the film is a loose remake of Wim Wenders' 1987 film "Wings of Desire". As with the original film "City of Angels" tells the story of an angel, Seth (played by Nicholas Cage), who falls in love with a mortal woman, Dr. Maggie Rice (played by Meg Ryan), and wishes to become human in order to be with her. The film has been a favourite of Mark's since he first saw it in 1998, because of the truly heartfelt and emotional story that it tells about what someone might do, and what sacrifices someone might choose to make, to be the one that they love - even an angel, who might have to give up everything that makes them who they are and what they have always known. The soundtrack of the film - which features songs by the Goo Goo Dolls, Sarah Mclachlan, Alanis Morissette, U2, and Peter Gabriel - is also wonderful and emotionally evoking, as well as hauntingly memorable in some cases. To Mark, "City of Angels" has a wonderful message of hope that runs through it - and it always stirs up memories, emotions, and profound spiritual and philosophical questions within him about who we all are, why we are all here, and what awaits us after we die.

In this Star Wars themed episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films and the film that began the cultural phenomenon and franchise that is "Star Wars" immediately after it premiered on May 25th, 1977: "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope", which was written and directed by George Lucas. The film stars Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia, Alec Guiness as Obi-wan Kenobi, David Prowse and James Earl Jones as Darth Vader, Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca, Anthony Daniels as C3PO, and Kenny Baker as R2D2. It was the first installment of the original "Star Wars" trilogy and it broke the mold in terms of cinematic storytelling, special effects, and it was immediately embraced by a new generation of movie-goers. "Star Wars" effectively invented the genre of the "Space Opera" and it has entertained and influenced many fans and filmmakers in their endeavours - and as a result of this film there has been many other stories told featuring the iconic characters that this film first introduced and there will undoubtedly be many more to come in the future. "Star Wars" continues to have a legacy and a fanbase that draws people to it because of its unique and compelling characters and stories that could only be told in a galaxy far, far away.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1968 epic science fiction film "2001: A Space Odyssey" directed by Stanley Kubrick who also produced and co-wrote the screenplay of the film with Arthur C. Clarke. The story of the film was inspired by a number of short stories by Arthur C. Clarke, most notably his 1951 short story "The Sentinel" - which depicts humanities encounters with mysterious alien monoliths that profoundly affect the course of human evolution, as well as the voyage to Jupiter by the spacecraft Discovery One to reveal the source of a mysterious alien signal. "2001: A Space Odyssey" is a film that is a masterpiece of cinema in so many ways and it is a film that truly redefined what a science fiction film could be, because it covers several themes - such as the evolution of humanity, artificial intelligence, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life - that continue to be contemporary because of the way that technology and the question of if we are alone in the universe continues to evolve and influence the lives of everybody on Earth.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1982 science fiction film "Blade Runner", directed by Ridley Scott and written by Hampton Fancier and David Peoples, based upon the 1968 novel "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick. The film is set in a dystopian version of 2019, in which synthetic humans known as "replicants" are bio-engineered by the powerful Tyrell Corporation to work on off-world space colonies - however, when a fugitive group of advanced replicants flee to Earth to hide, Rick Deckard (played by Harrison Ford) is tasked to track down and eliminate the group, led by Roy Batty (played by Rutger Hauer). The film explores themes such as identity, slavery, artificial intelligence, and where the path towards creating advanced machines who look and act human may eventually lead. "Blade Runner" has been culturally as well aesthetically influential since is initial release and it continues to draw audiences back to it because of the deeply profound possibilities that it proposes and investigates in regards to humanities burgeoning relationship with artificial life.

In this episode Mark talks about the 2008 American superhero film "Iron Man", directed by Jon Favreau, based upon the Marvel comics character of the same name. "Iron Man" was the first film in what has over time become known as the Marvel Cinematic Universe - which is a continuously growing series of films and TV shows that are all interconnected with one another and which are all set in the same reality and occasionally feature cross-overs of live-action depictions of several different well-known and not so well-known heroes, characters, and storylines that have been featured in the pages Marvel Comics since its inception. "Iron Man" has a star-studded cast, including: Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, Gwyneth Paltrow as Pepper Potts, Jeff Bridges, Terence Howard, as well as several other cameos that would become a staple for the Marvel Cinematic Universe of films that would follow.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1990 American crime film "Goodfellas", directed by Martin Scorsese - which is an adaptation of the 1985 non-fiction book "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi, who also co-wrote the screenplay of "Goodfellas" with Scorsese. The premise of the film revolves around the rise and the fall of mob associate Henry Hill and his interactions with many people who were a member of organised crime in New York City between 1955 and 1980. The film stars Ray Liotta as Henry Hill, Lorraine Bracco as Karen Hill (Henry's wife), Robert De Niro as Jimmy Conway, Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito, and Paul Sorvino as Pauline Cicero, as well as many other incredible stand-out performances by many amazing actors. "Goodfellas" has continuously been highly regarded and heralded by both film critics and film fans alike as being one of the greatest films ever made, particularly in the gangster genre, since its release - and its content and style has been emulated numerous times on both television and in other films.

In this episode Mark does a spoilery review of the new episode of The Mandalorian - Season 2, Episode 5: "The Jedi" - which sees The Mandalorian finally come face to face with a fan favourite character from the Star Wars universe who may be able to shed some light on who "Baby Yoda" really is.

In another Star Wars-themed episode Mark talks about the 2005 "Star Wars" film "Star Wars: Episode III - "Revenge of the Sith", written and directed by George Lucas. The conclusive film in the so called "Prequel Trilogy" of the Star Wars franchise of films, "Revenge of the Sith" centres upon the end of "The Clone War", the demise of the Jedi Order, the fall of Anakin Skywalker, aswell as the rise of the Dark Side of The Force, the birth of Darth Vader, and the fruition of the plan of the Dark Lord of the Sith Darth Sidious to rule the galaxy and exterminate the Jedi, as the era of the Galacfic Republic ends and a new Galactic Empire begins. "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" is considered by Star Wars fans and film aficionados alike to be one of the best Star Wars films of the franchise and it is a film that Mark has watched many times because of the expert storytelling, the great character development, and the seemless dove-tailing that "Star Wars" creator George Lucas employs to poetically connect one era of "Star Wars" to another.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1975 American thriller "Jaws", directed by Steven Spielberg and based on the 1974 novel of the same name by Peter Brenchley. In the film, a man-eating great white shark attacks beachgoers at a summer resort town which prompts police chief Martin Brody (played by Roy Schneider) to hunt it with the help of a marine biologist (played by Richard Dreyfuss) and a professional shark hunter (played by Robert Shaw). The film "Jaws" has drawn Mark back to it many times over the years and after every repeated viewing of this incredible film Mark has gained an even deeper appreciation of why it is considered by many people, as well as himself, to be one of the greatest films of all time.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite TV series: "Lucifer" - which is an American urban fantasy television series developed by Tom Kapinos based on the DC Comics character created by Neil Gaiman, Sam Keith, and Mike Dringenberg taken from the comic book series The Sandman and who was also the main protagonist of a spin-off comic book series published by DC Comics' Vertigo imprint. The series revolves around the story of Lucifer Morningstar (played by Tom Ellis) the Devil, who was condemned to rule hell for all eternity after attempting to stage a rebellion in Heaven... until he decides to take a vacation in Los Angeles where he runs his own nightclub named 'LUX' as well as becoming a consultant for the LAPD. The series also focuses of Lucifer's connection and his relationship with Dectective Chloe Decker (played by Lauren German) and the mystery of why she is not susceptible to his gift of drawing out peoples' hidden desires. The series also stars Kevin Alejandro as Detective Daniel "Dan" Espinoza, D.B. Woodside as Amenadiel, Lesley-Ann Brandt as Mazikeen, and Rachael Harris as Dr. Linda Martin. The series first three series premiered on Fox, until it was cancelled - but now all three seasons can now be streamed on Amazon Prime in the UK, and all the seasons afterwards can be streamed on Netflix worldwide.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the critically-aclaimed 1993 American science fiction adventure film "Jurassic Park", directed by Stephen Spielberg. "Jurassic Park" is a film adaptation of the 1990 novel of the same name, written by Michael Crichton - whose premise centres around the creation of a wildlife park of dinosaurs that have been brought to life by genetic scientists, with the investment of wealthy businessman and industrialist John Hammond played by Richard Attenborough. Set upon the fictional island of Isla Nublar, a small group of visitors - including Hammond's own grandchildren - struggle to survive and escape the island when a catastrophic shutdown of Jurassic Park's power and security precautions leads to the escape of some dangerous dinosaurs that see the visitors to the island as prey. The film has a star-studded cast, including: Sam Neil, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Bob Peck, BD Wong, Samuel L. Jackson, Wayne Knight - and in 2018 it was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" and it continues to be highly regarded by critics and audiences alike, as has the sequel films of the "Jurassic Park" franchise that it has spawned.

In this episode Mark talks about another of his favourite films: the American coming-of-age drama film "Boyhood", written and directed by Richard Linklater - which stars Patricia Arquette, Ella Coltrane, Lorelei Linklater, and Ethan Hawke. "Boyhood" was filmed over 12 years - from 2001 to 2013 - depicting the childhood and adolescence of Mason Evans Jr. from the age of six to the age of eighteen as he grows up in Texas with divorced parents.

In this episode Mark talks about the 2019 American psychological thriller film "Joker" - directed, produced and co-written by Todd Philips - which is based upon the DC Comics character best known as the archenemy of the superhero Batman. Set in 1981, "Joker" follows the story of Arthur Fleck, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who is a failed stand-up comedian whose descent into insanity and nihilism inspires a violent counter-culture revolution against the wealthy in Gotham City. The film also stars Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, and Marc Maron, as well as a plethora of other recognisable actors in supporting roles, within a story that was apparently inspired by two Martin Scorsese films - "Taxi Driver" and "The King of Comedy" - and serves as an alternative origin story for the Joker character. Mark talks about the premise of the film, as well as the exceptional acting talent of the actors portraying the characters - and Mark talks about the character of the Joker and which depiction of the character by all the actors to have played the role over the years is his personal favourite.

In this episode Mark reviews the newest episode of The Mandalorian TV series: Season 2, Episode 4 (Chapter 12): "The Siege" - and Mark talks about the premise of the episode, the characters, and what moments stood out for him within the episode.

In another Star Wars-themed episode, Mark talks about the Star Wars film "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" - which was written and directed by George Lucas, and which was the second installment in the Star War prequel trilogy of films but the fifth Star Wars film produced of the space-opera movie series. In this episode Mark talks about the premise of the film, the characters, and the additions to the Star Wars universe and its canon that were introduced in this film and which continue to influence all the films, the TV shows, the books, and the stories that are made to this day, and which are all set in the same growing universe of continuity that is the Star Wars galaxy.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films and a family favourite film of many: "Mrs. Doubtfire" - which is a 1993 American comedy-drama film directed by Chris Columbus, based in the 1987 novel "Alias Madame Doubtfire" by Anne Fine. The film stars Robin Williams, Sally Field, Pierce Brosnan, Harvey Fierstein, and Robert Prosky, about a recently divorced actor, Daniel Hilliard (Robin Williams), who dresses up as a female housekeeper "Mrs. Euphegenia Doubtfire" to be able to interact with his children. The film has been a favourite of Mark's and of his family since he was young and in his opinion it is Robin Williams' best film and also testament to his extraordinary and unparalleled gift as an actor and as a wonderful human being - and his presence will always be sadly missed.

In this episode Mark talks about the 2001 American science fiction psychological thriller film "Donnie Darko", written and directed by Richard Kelly - which includes a star-studded cast, including: Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Drew Barrymore, Mary McDonnell, Katharine Ross, Patrick Swayze, and Noah Wyle. "Donnie Darko" follows the story of the titular troubled teenager character Donnie Darko who finds himself led my a mysterious voice, as well as by by doomsday-related vision of a giant white rabbit, and his exploration of what they mean and what his purpose is in the world that he finds himself in.

In this episode Mark talks about both the TV series "Firefly", which premiered in U.S. on the Fox network on September 20, 2002 - which unfortunately was cancelled after only 11 of the 14 produced episodes were aired - and its motion picture sequel "Serenity", which premiered on August 22, 2005. Mark talks about the space Western premise of the show and the film, both created by writer and director Joss Whedon, and he also talks about the amazing, compelling, and diverse crew of characters of the Firefly-class spaceship "Serenity" and the actors who played them, including: Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, Morena Baccarin, Adam Baldwin, Jewel Staite, Sean Maher, Summer Glau, and Ron Glass. Both "Firefly" and "Serenity" have been highly regarded by Mark since he saw them, as well their characters, and he explains why to him and to others like him both the TV series and its motion picture sequel are considered to special in many ways and will continue to be counted among some of the best that television and cinema has to offer.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: "Lost In Translation" - which is a 2003 American romantic comedy-drama film, directed by Sofia Coppola, which stars Bill Murray as Bob Harris - a fading American movie star who is having a midlife crisis - who travels to Tokyo, Japan, to promote a whisky, where he befriends Charlotte - a young American woman and a recent college graduate, played by Scarlet Johansson. This sublimely written, directed, and acted film has had a profound effect on Mark since he first saw it, and it will always hold a very special place in his heart.

In this episode Mark does a spoilery review of the latest episode of The Mandalorian TV series: Season 2, Episode 3 (Chapter 11): "The Heiress" - in which we see the return of a character that some Star Wars fans may have been seen before, but this time they are personified in live action instead of animation. And we find out that The Way of The Mandalorian is not the way of all Mandalorians.

In another Star Wars-themed episode Mark talks about "Star Wars - Episode 1: The Phantom Menace", which premiered in 1999 and which was the first film in the "Prequel Trilogy" of Star Wars movies, written and created by George Lucas. Mark talks about the story of the film - which had divisive reviews and reactions to it by some critics and fans upon its initial release because it was felt that it was made specifically for children, but over the years the film has garnered a cult-following and is regarded more agreeably in no small part because of some of the protagonist and antagonist characters that were introduced within it. Mark talks about some of the popular Star Wars characters who were introduced in "The Phantom Menace" and the longevity of their legacy and popularity - especially the character of Darth Maul who it has recently been revealed could have been the main antagonist of the Sequel Trilogy of films if George Lucas' original outline for those films (Episodes 7-9 ) had been used, and what ramifications to the characters and to the overall story of the Star Wars saga, if George Lucas' Sequel Trilogy had been made, would have been.

In this episode Mark talks about one of favourite TV series, adapted from one of his favourite books by one of his favourite authors, Neil Gaiman: "American Gods". Mark talks about the premise of both the novel "American Gods" and the first two seasons of the television adaptation - which revolves around a war that is by incited between the "Old Gods" of mythology and the "New Gods" of technology and globalisation. The "American Gods" TV series is executively produced by Neil Gaiman and it can be seen on both the Starz cable channel in the US and on Amazon Prime world-wide. In this episode Mark talks about the characters and the Gods that populate the story - who in some cases are both the protagonists and the antagonists of the overriding story of both "American Gods" the TV series as well as the novel of the same name - and he explains who the characters are, what motivates them, and what influences their actions. The series stars Ricky Whittle as Shadow Moon, Ian McShane as Mr. Wednesday, as well as a cast of other phenomenonal actors who play some memorable, compelling, and out of this world characters - such of gods, goddesses, jinn, a leprechaun, a dead wife, and other modern personifications of legendary mythological beings.

In this episode Mark talks about another of his favourite films: the 2017 action film "Baby Driver" - which was written and directed by Edgar Wright. "Baby Driver" stars Ansel Elgort, as the gateway driver "Baby" who is seeking to free himself of a life of crime who has tinnitus and who uses music as catharsis; and Lily James, who is Baby's love-interest and girlfriend in the film. Mark talks about what he thinks makes "Baby Driver" stand out as a great film: including its cinematography, its choreography, and its phenomenonal soundtrack which feels like another character in the film. Mark comments on how the songs that constantly play throughout the film - via Baby's iPod or a radio station - both add depth and significance to the part of the film they are within and which also add energy to certain scenes that feel effortless instead of forced. "Baby Driver" has a star-studded cast, including: Jon Hamm, Jamie Foxx, Jon Bernthal, Eiza Gonzalez, and Kevin Spacey.

In this episode Mark reviews the latest episode of "The Mandalorian" - Season 2, Episode 2 - Chapter 10: "The Passenger". Mark discusses the events of the episode and he talks about what he liked about the episode. Mark also discusses the story of the episode - which some people have not had an initial positive reaction to - and he gives his opinion, as an author of books and stories, why he believes certain choices were made by the writer of the episode, series creator Jon Favreau. Mark also explains why he thinks viewers need to be patient when it comes to the delivery of answers to questions that have been posed by certain things and by certain characters in certain episodes for the benefit of their enjoyment of the encompassing story being told chapter by chapter - because like every good story of every good book, you can't rush something that may untimately turn out to be worthwhile.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite TV shows: 'The West Wing' - which is an American serialised political drama that was created by Aaron Sorkin that was primarily set in the West Wing of The White House, which depicted the fictional Democratic administration of President Josiah "Jed" Bartlet. The series ran from 1999 to 2006, during which it featured an enthralling and a phenomenonal cast of characters - including Martin Sheen as President Bartlet, Rob Lowe, John Spencer, Bradley Whitford, Richard Schiff, Allison Janney, Stockard Channing, and many other incredible actors over its seven season run, who all contributed to make The West Wing the incredible and groundbreaking television series that it was and will always be. The West Wing dealt with stories that ranged from political policy to personal tragedy - and over the course of the series its viewers were able to watch the main cast of characters evolve as well as dramatise the importance of democracy and of working together as a united country of people for a common purpose of continued prosperity for all the people of the United States of America, as voted for by the people of the United States of America.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: "V for Vendetta" - the 2006 dystopian political action film directed by James McTeigue and written by the Wachowskis, based on the 1988 DC/Vertigo graphic novel/limited comic book series by Alan Moore and David Lloyd. Both the film and the comic book series center upon the relationship between the anarchist, masked freedom fighter, V (played by Hugo Weaving) and the character Evey (played by Natalie Portman) who find themselves drawn together as V enacts vengeance as a part of a personal Vendetta to overthrow the neo-faciscist totalitarian regime of an alternate-future United Kingdom, to expose their crimes, to unite the people, and to bring about a new beginning. Mark talks about why he loves "V for Vendetta" so much and why he is time and again compelled by its story, by its protagonist, and by the message of both the film and the comic series that states, as V says: "ideas are bulletproof" and that "there are no coincidences, only the illusion of coincidences"; and also as the character of Evey rightly states: "an idea can change the world". Mark also explains why he will always "Remember, remember, the Fifth of November, the Gunpowder Treason and Plot..." and why he will always remember the story of "V for Vendetta" and why to him both the film and the comic series need to be watched and enjoyed over and over and, of course, never be forgot.

This is my poem "The G.O.A.T. - check out more poem on http://MarkThePoet.Me

In this episode Mark talks about another of his favourite films: "District 9", directed by Neil Blomkamp - which is an enthralling science-fiction action film that deals with such subjects as xenophobia, racism, social segregation, and identity. The premise of "District 9" centres around the arrival of an alien species to Earth, whose spacecraft has spent over 20 years hovering over the city of Johannesburg, in South Africa, and over the course of the film we witness and we are presented with evidence of how this alien "prawn" species is treated by humanity, where they have been detained since their arrival, and what the opinion is of those who live in the shadow of the alien spacecraft and also those who have been tasked with controlling this alien race. The story of "District 9" and the main protagonist, Wikus van de Merwe played by Sharlto Copley, expertly shows several examples of the spectrum of humanity that exists on our planet - and the film asks us to consider what would humanity really do and how would humanity truly react to the seemingly life-changing revelation that we are not alone in the universe if they were asked to take care of a refugee alien species who they know very little about.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: the 1990 submarine spy-thriller film "The Hunt For Red October", based on the book of the same name by Tom Clancy, which was directed by John McTiernan and which starred Sean Connery, Alec Baldwin, Sam Neil, and James Earl Jones. Mark talks about the story of "The Hunt For Red October" and the motivations of the main protagonists of the film, as well as the "Cold War" between the US and the USSR that the film takes place within. The episode is dedicated to the late great Sean Connery who died on October 31, 2020, at the age of 90 - and Mark talks about why he considers Sean Connery's portrayal of the character of Captain Marko Ramius to be one of his most defining film roles and well as his favourite.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films, and one of his favourite book adaptations: "Ready Player One" - which came out in 2018 and which was directed by Steven Spielberg, based upon the novel of the same name which came out in 2011 written by Ernest Cline. Mark talks about the premise of both the film and the book, and he also talks about the characters and the themes that the story of both the film and the book deal with. Mark discusses the virtual world of the OASIS - which the majority of the story of the film and the book takes place in: a world within which anybody can do anything, can go anywhere, can be anything, and can be anybody that they want to be. Mark talks about why he believes the story and the themes of both the film and the book "Ready Player One" are more prescient now than ever.

In this Special Halloween-themed episode, Mark recites some Halloween/supernatural short-stories and poems that he has written over the years about this time of the year: including his short-story/poem "The Trick-or-Treaters"; his short-story/poem "Boo"; his short-story/poem "The Haunting of 14 Yucca Drive"; and his poem "Vampire State of Mind". And Mark would like to wish everybody a very Happy Halloween! 🎃

In this episode, Mark does a *Spoilery* review of The Mandalorian - Season 2, Episode 1: "The Marshal"; and Mark talks about what he liked about the episode, what characters stood out for him, and he also discusses how he thinks the events of the first episode of the season will influence the episodes of the series to follow - including the return of a legendary Star Wars character! This is the way!

In this epsiode Mark talks about another of his favourite movie franchises: "Ghostbusters"! Mark does a deep-dive into the premise of the original 1984 "Ghostbusters" film and the actors who portray the iconic characters of the original movie, as well as the 1989 sequel "Ghostbusters 2": including Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Sigourney Weaver, and Rick Moranis. Mark talks briefly about the 2016 "Ghostbusters" reboot, and he previews the upcoming sequel movie to the original films that is scheduled to be released in 2021: "Ghostbusters: After Life". And Mark gives a tribute to the late actor/director Harold Ramis by played the character Egon Spencer in the 1984 and 1989 "Ghostbusters" movies.

In this episode Mark talks about another of his favourite movie trilogies: "The Matrix Trilogy" - which consists of 'The Matrix' (1999), 'The Matrix: Reloaded' (2003), and 'The Matrix: Revolutions' (2003). Mark does a deep-dive into the premise of 'The Matrix' film trilogy, the backstory, the plot, the significance of some of the main characters and how they influence the overriding story that connects the three original films of The Matrix franchise and the extended universe of stories which have been depicted in animation, as well as in comic form. And Mark briefly talks about the forthcoming sequel to the "Matrix Trilogy" that is scheduled to be released in 2022.

In this episode Mark talks about one of the most celebrated horror movie franchises: John Carpenters' Halloween films. Mark talks about the main premise of most of the Halloween films, and he also talks about their main protagonist, Laurie Strode played by Jamie Lee Curtis's, and the main antagonist, Michael Myers. Mark does a review of both the most recent 2018 'Halloween' film and the original 1978 'Halloween' film, and he talks about how the films effectively build tension in sometimes subtle, but powerful, ways in how they present the indomitable supernatural force of a character that cannot be stopped - through cinematography, as well as by using a synonymous and unforgettable soundtrack.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite TV series at the moment: "Cobra Kai" - which is a sequel television series to the critically-acclaimed 'The Karate Kid' film series, which stars Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso and William Zabka as Johnny Lawrence. The first two seasons of 'Cobra Kai' are currently streaming on Netflix and the third season is expected to premiere in January 2021.

In this Halloween/Supernatural-themed episode, Mark talks about another of his favourite TV shows: 'Supernatural' - in which he talks about the central premise of the series, as well as the main characters - Dean and Sam Winchester, played by Jenson Ackles and Jared Pedelecki - and the incredible supporting actors and characters that recur throughout the series. Mark also recites his poems "Scream!" and "Scary Movies".

In this episode Mark discusses both his 2017 novel 'The Wolf In Me' and its sequel novel 'The Wolf In You' which came out in 2019 - which, when combined, tell the tale of Olivia Hunter: the protagonist in both of Mark's books - who is a werewolf, as well as being a young woman trying to find her way in the world, and at the same time attempting to be the best mother than she can to her daughter, Melissa. Mark talks about where the idea for writing the story of Olivia Hunter came from and why his book 'The Wolf In You' stands out for him so profoundly among the stories he has written, and why he considers it to be his favourite book of those he has written thus far.

In this episode Mark talks about another of his favourite films, from one of his favourite trilogy of movies: 'Back To The Future'. Mark does a step-by-step run-through of the story of 'Back To The Future, part I' and he discusses the characters and the actors portraying them. Mark talks about why he loves the first 'Back To The Future' movie and why he will continue to watch it and every film of this universally celebrated trilogy over and over again.

In this episode Mark discusses the first season of the first live-action Star Wars television series 'The Mandalorian' - which has been streaming on the Disney+ streaming service for almost a year now, and the second season is currently scheduled to premiere on Disney+ from October 30, 2020. Mark talks about the premise of the show, as well as some of the main characters and their motivations. Mark also talks about some of the events of the Star Wars universe of stories that preceed 'The Mandalorian' which have a definitive influence on the characters and the settings of the episodes within which the series is set chronologically in relation to the overall combined timeline of the Star Wars live-action and animated series' that preceed and succeed it.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite TV shows: LOST - and he discusses the mysterious premise of the series that engaged and enthralled millions of enthusiastic viewers from all around the world - Mark included. Mark digressed about who spending hours and days watching the groundbreaking series and engaging online with fellow fans in all the theories and spectaculation that surrounded the show over what the story of LOST was about, what answers there were to all the questions that viewers were asking, and who the central cast of characters were and how and why they were seemingly innately connected to one another. Mark discusses what he liked about the series and who his favourite characters were, and why LOST is for good reason consistently included in any and every list of the best TV shows of all time.

In another episode of his "Inspiration Mixtape" Mark once again shares some songs that have inspired him and have had a profound effect on him, by artists and bands who have influenced millions of people all around the world - including The Outfield, Goo Goo Dolls, Bryan Adams, Peter Cetera, Bruce Springsteen, and Simple Minds.

In this episode Mark talks about the inspiration and the poetry that he sees, hears, and experiences when walking around a city - and Mark explains why he believes cities are vital hives of diversity, change, language, and understanding where echoes of the past and hopes for the future meet and coexist seemingly harmoniously. And Mark recites his poem "Brum" that he was inspired to write by the city that he knows better than any: the city of Birmingham, in the United Kingdom.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films: "The Shining" by Stanley Kubrick, based upon the book of the same name by Stephen King. Mark talks about the story of the film, the characters, and why he has continued to enjoy the film more and more, the more that he has watched it and learned more about it. Mark also explains why he believes "The Shining" is an example of exampliary cinematography. Mark also discusses why visual storytelling sometimes has an advantage over literary storytelling - mainly because of the necessary collaborations of both visual storytellers and sound storytellers that take place, which are essential and prevalent in films such as horror movies in the ways that they use certain cinematic techniques to build tension, mystery, and entrigue into a great scary movie's overall story.

In this episode Mark discusses another favourite TV show of his: Mr. Robot - during which Mark discusses the multi-dimensional premise of the TV show, as well as the multi-dimensional characters that proliferate it: in particular, the characters of Elliott Alderson played by Rami Malek and "Mr. Robot" played by Christian Slater.

In another episode of his "Inspiration Mixtape", Mark shares more of his favourite songs by some of his favourite artists who have inspired him over the years - including Mr. Mister, The Human League, Lissie, Bon Jovi, and a-ha

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite TV shows: 'Breaking Bad' - and Mark does an in-depth breakdown of the story of 'Breaking Bad', its characters and their motivations, and he explains why he thinks 'Breaking Bad' is one of best TV shows ever made! And Mark recites his Breaking Bad-themed poems "Walter White (A Breaking Bad poem) and "Run Jesse, Run".

In this episode Mark talks about another of his favourite TV shows: "Dexter". Mark talks about the compelling, the complex, the multi-dimensional fictional serial killer Dexter Morgan, played by Michael C. Hall, and other characters and actors from 'Dexter', and the recent announcement that there is to be revival of the series coming in 2021. And Mark recites his poem "Dark Characters".

In this episode of his podcast, Mark highlights some of the songs, the artists, and the music that have influenced and inspired him over the years, including: Savage Garden, Bryan Adams, Huey Lewis & The News, John Lennon, and The Temper Twins

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite TV shows: 'The Sopranos' created by David Chase - whose cast starred many great actors over its seven seasons, including: James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano, Eddie Falco as Carmela Soprano, Michael Imperioli as Christopher Moltisanti, as well as several award-winning actors who through their memorable portrayals of their iconic characters and the exception writing propelled 'The Sopranos' into becoming considered as one of the greatest TV shows ever made. And Mark also recites his poem "Tony Soprano".

In this episode Mark talks about the world of poetry that we all live in and are constantly surrounded by at all hours of the day - but Mark explains that for him there are exact places and there are exact times when and where Mark is the most inspired than when anywhere else or at any other time. Mark explains that all stories and storytellers use the language of poetry in the art that they - both the literal and visual medium - as a vital component of the way that they tell their stories: whether that by using certain colours or sounds to illicit a particular facet of some thing of someone within the context of the story being told. Mark discusses the importance of numbers to people - in particular specific times of the day, like 10 o'clock in the morning and 10 o'clock at when Mark feels that he is either his most inspired and the most imaginative during the day; and Mark recites two poems that were written eight years apart, but which he was inspired to write at the exact place and at the exact time of the day: "As the bell tolled Ten" and "The Ten Bells". And Mark also recites his poem "Deus ex Poetica" (which is Latin for 'God from the poetry', essential) in which Mark expresses what poetry means to him and why he believes we live in a world of poetry.

In this episode Mark talks about the experience of being a teacher, the experience of being a student, and subsequently then seeing those who teach pass on what you have taught them to others in a constantly repeating cycle of teaching and learning. Mark talks about the fact that some people learn at different speeds and some people benefit from being taught differently so that they may grasp the solution to the questions posed to them in a way that is unique to them and how they understand the world around them. Mark talks about the importance of learning and the power of knowledge - and how people can sometimes learn more when they leave school than when they are at school about what it is that they want to do and who you want to be. And Mark recites his poems "The Teacher", "Graduation", and "First Day".

In this Special Announcement Episode, Mark makes an announcement that "Mark The Poet - The Podcast" is transitioning to become "The Mark Hastings Experience". Mark announces that the podcast will now include Mark's opinions on a great many of the things that his interest him - from his opinions on life, to films, to TV shows, to books; however what will not change is Mark's passion for writing poetry, and in every episode Mark will continue to share the poetry that he has written previously, the poetry that he has written recently, and the poetry that he has yet to write.

In this supernatural themed episode Mark talks about his obsession with all things supernatural - especially when it comes to the stories that he writes and tells in the books that he publishes. Mark explains why he believes writing supernatural stories about supernatural characters gives him more freedom to be even more imaginative in the way that he tells his stories. Mark talks about some of the supernatural stories that he has written, who they are about, and why he was inspired to write them. Mark talks about his favourite supernatural TV show, "Supernatural" and why he believes it has lasted as long as it has. Mark talks about several of the supernatural and paranormal characters that have been depicted in movies and in myths from all around the world. And Mark recites his poems "Supernatural Obsession", "Superstitious", and "The Mermaid".

In this episode Mark talks about the process of being on the surface of the "ocean of inspiration" - the analogy that Mark likes to use when attempting to describe what it like to be a poet, a writer, an artist, in the process of creating a brand piece of art. Mark talks about the analogy of "feeding the Wolf" within him - and he imparts his thoughts on why what an artist creates depends greatly on what an artist is inspired by and what they feed the spirit of inspiration within them for sustenance. Mark talks about why he thinks the art of artists is not only important when and where it is created but it can also transcend space and time. And Mark recites his poems "Where it all started", "Anti-gravity", and "Future Me".

In this episode Mark talks about the importance of colour in our daily lives and what colour means to different people at different times in their life. Mark describes how colour is used deliberately by both advertisers and advertisements to drawn people to choose a specific product over another, and also how the colour palette of nature and light can influence people into thinking, feeling, and acting in certain ways that can be transformative. Mark also recites his colour-inspired poems "Red", "Black", "Ode Blue", "Green", "The Rainbow", and "Lux".

This episode is dedicated to Mark's favourite artist: Vincent van Gogh - who he was, what he was, the incredible art that he created, the profound gift that he had as an artist, and how he was able to see and highlight the beauty and the poetry of nature and the universe like nobody else before or since has been able to. Mark talks about the legacy of Vincent van Gogh's art and how he has inspired and given so much joy to countless people from all around the world since his tragic death. Mark talks about the new 'Van Gogh Alive: The Experience' exhibition that he attended recently, and he explains the format and the setting of this incredible exhibition that celebrates Vincent van Gogh's life and his artwork. Mark recites a poem that he wrote which is dedicated to Vincent van Gogh, called "Vincent". Mark recites his poem "Art & Soul" which highlights what art means to him. And Mark recites his poem "Fire-starters" which is about the fact that there have always been artists of all mediums who have created art that has had a profound effect on people and who have influenced the world through their art, but who unfortunately died too young to see the full-effect of their artistic influence and the legacy that they left behind.

In this episode Mark talks about the epic space-opera, world wide cultural phenomenon, science fiction/fantasy franchise and universe of films, TV shows, books, comics and toys that is the one and the only 'Star Wars', created by George Lucas. The first film of the space-opera franchise, called simply 'STAR WARS' (now commonly known as 'Star Wars - Episode IV: A New Hope), was released back in 1977 - which Mark has been a fan of since he was a child. Mark talks about the overriding arc of the nine "Episodes" of the main Star Wars motion pictures that have been made - which range from stories of good vs. evil, light vs. dark, hope vs. fear - that span the so-called "Skywalker saga" which centres around and focuses on the Skywalker family, who are strong with "The Force" that binds all things in the Star Wars galaxy together. And Mark recites his Star Wars-themed poem "In A Galaxy Far, Far Away (A Star Wars poem)", and his poem "The Force".

In this episode Mark talks about one of the most interesting mythologies the world has ever known, which contains some of the most recognisable Gods that have ever been written about, which take centre stage in some of the stories and in some of the tales that have been retold for centuries - which includes characters, heroes, and figureheads that have guided and influenced the lives of countless people for centuries: Norse Mythology. Mark talks about the contemporary depictions of the Gods of Norse Mythology as retold by such writers as those from Marvel comics and also by his favourite author, Neil Gaiman - in particular within his book 'American Gods' and 'Norse Mythology'. Mark recites his poems "Thor's Hammer", "Poetic Mead", "The Modern Mythology", and "The Viking Way. And Mark discusses what he believes constitutes the modern mythology of the modern world - and who he believes are the "new gods" of the modern age.

In this episode Mark talks about his first novel 'The Wolf In Me', which was published in 2017, and he explains in-depth about why he was inspired to write the story of his protagonist Olivia Hunter and The Wolf within her. Mark talks about the meaning behind the story of 'The Wolf In Me' and he recites an excerpt from his book that describes who the character of Olivia Hunter is and why she does what she does. Mark also recites his poems "The Wolf Within Me", "The Wolf of Winter", and "The Wolf Moon".

In this episode Mark heralds the start of the month of October and the beginning of the hallowed season that so many people look forward to at this time of the year, by reciting his poem "October"; and by reciting his poem "Baba Yaga" Mark hopes to bring to life the superstitious side of people in preparation for Halloween. And with his poem "Rough" Mark shines a light upon the harrowing plight of those who are homeless: those poor people who day after day, night after night, are forced to call the city streets of the world their home - and Mark recounts a particular interaction that he once had with a so-called "rough-sleeper" and how he wishes that he could truly give the gift of "change" to anybody who asked for it.

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite films 'The Truman Show' - and by using this profound, inspirational, and thoroughly enjoyable film as a guide Mark talks about the concepts of reality, identity, control, materialism, voyeurism, and the journey that everybody is on throughout their life to discovery who they truly are. And Mark recites his poems "The Virtual/Reality", "Revolving Door", "Substantial Sustenance".

In this episode Mark talks about the "mobile world" that we all now live in: a world in which anybody and everybody can connect to one another, instantaneously, at a speed and in ways like never before in human history. Mark talks about the many mobile technological innovations that surround us all that everybody might accidentally take for granted, because the means to be connected to what is happening everywhere and at any time of the day is ubiquitous and expected in the modern age that we now live in. Mark talks about how much mobile technology has changed over the last 10 years and what gifts and abilities technology affords people in this day and age. And Mark recites some mobile-themed poems: "Mobile Life", "Mobile Inspiration", and "Mobile Poetry".

In this episode Mark looks back on September 2019 - a month and a year that Mark has mixed feelings about, because at the beginning of September 2019 Mark and his family had to contend with the harrowing reality that his Dad had had a heart-attack and that for days his Dad lay unconscious, and for weeks Mark's Dad lied in a hospital bed, day after day. Mark openly talks about the fear that lingered within him about whether Mark's Dad would make a full-recovery. Mark recites his poem "The Lion of His Pride" that was inspired by his Dad and by what Mark was feeling at that time in his life. Mark also recites his poem "The Driving Force" and his poem "The Warstone Angel".

This episode is dedicated to the "Man in Black" himself... the one and the only Mr. Johnny Cash! In this episode Mark talks about how much he loves and has been inspired by the music of Johnny Cash, and how he has always seen something of himself in Johnny Cash and how he has always seen something of Johnny Cash in himself. Mark talks about Johnny Cash's life and the demons that he had to daily live with; and Mark talks about his favourite songs written and performed by the "Man in Black". Mark also describes the pilgrimage that he set about upon in 2016 to seemingly follow in the footsteps of Johnny Cash, all the way to the Nickajack Cave, near the Tennessee River - and Mark recounts what it felt like to be somewhere that was a turning point in the life of Johnny Cash. And Mark recites his poems "Everything to Me", "Walking the Line", and "Man in Black".

In this episode Mark talks about his favourite coffee shop chain - which he has visited many different stores of all around the world, and where and when on almost every occasion he has been inspired to write a poem, or a part of one of his stories: the one and the only, Starbucks. Mark explains what it is about drinking, eating, and writing at Starbucks that has made all the difference over the years to what he writes and how he writes, and why he thinks that he has a lot to thank Starbucks for in regards to the inspiration that has has imbibed while in one of their many stores. Mark also recites his poems "Starbucks", "Mr. Poet", and "Write Away". And please note that this episode and this podcast is not sponsored by Starbucks in any way shape or form, but perhaps it should be - that's all that Mark is saying!

In this episode Mark talks about his incredibly talented and amazing friend Natalia Paruz a.k.a. "The Saw Lady". Mark was lucky to be able to meet, to talk to, and to hear Natalia Paruz play the magical, beautiful, ensorcelling music of her musical saw back in 2013, on the New York Subway - and Mark was instantly spellbound by the transcendental music that he heard, because of the way that "The Saw Lady" Natalia Paruz's music spoke to him, touched his soul, and inspired him in more ways than could ever be put into words. Mark has on occasion been able to describe in poetry how beautiful and amazing Natalia Paruz's music is and what it means to him within two poems: "Saw Lady of the Subway" and "Sawing Voice". And in this episode Mark once again recites some poetry dedicated to "the city that never sleeps", and one of Mark favourite places on Earth, New York City, in the form of his poem "The City".

In this episode Mark talks about the power that people have when they have the right to freely express themselves through their art - from writers, to painters, to musicians, to comedians - and how much depth certain artists imbue into their creations and with the power of their ideas, which all invariably start after being written down upon a blank sheet of paper. Mark talks about why it is important to dream about things and why it is important to express certain ideas - because it is through the sharing of dreams, thoughts, and ideas where the wisdom of truth lies. And Mark recites his poems "Bigger on the Inside", "Forever Dreamer", and "Imagine".

In this episode once again Mark talks about his fascination with all things space and he discusses the potential of life on other planets - such as Venus, Mars, or the moon of Jupiter Europa. Mark talks about the potential of future manned missions to other planets, in particular the red planet Mars - and why the thought of such missions in the near future is an exciting prospect that everybody should be excited about. Mark also recites his space-themed poems "Greetings from Europa", "Space Walk", and "Phoenix in the Dark".

In this episode Mark talks about his film favourite of all time: 'The Shawshank Redemption' - and Mark describes in great depth the story of the film, the meaning and the symbolism of the film, the main characters, why he loves 'The Shawshank Redemption' so much, and why it his favourite film of all time over all the other many incredible films that he has seen over his life. Mark also recites his poems "Favourites", "Crossroads", and "One For The Road" - and he shares what connection he believes these poems in particular have to his favourite film: 'The Shawshank Redemption'.

This episode is dedicated to the power of love - specifically the love that Mark shares with his fiancé Melissa. In this episode Mark recites some poems that were inspired by the love that Mark feels for, and the love that is reciprocated by, his fiancé Melissa that were all taken from Mark's book 'Truly Madly Deeply', which was published in 2016, which is filled with poems that describe the love felt by a couple who love each other unconditionally, and the retelling of the story of how Mark and Melissa first met. Mark recites his poems "Melissa", "My Chikadee", "Her Magical Powers", "Guardian Angel", and "The Air I Breathe".

In this episode Mark talks about one of his favourite seasons of nature: the beautiful and the respedant Autumn. Mark explains what he loves the most about Autumn/Fall, and he describes how magical and magnificent it is to him and how it has always been inspiring to him and to many people from all around the world, especially when they are outside and enjoying the transitions that can be witnessed in nature. Mark recites his poems "Autumn", "The Hallowed Season", and "Buona Fortuna". And Mark encourages people to go out into nature and enjoy the natural beauty that is out there - especially during this time of transition and adaptation for both nature and humanity combined.

This episode is dedicated to the renowned physicist and cosmologist Stephen Hawking, who unfortunately died in 2018. Stephen Hawking was an inspiration to countless people from all around the world over his life - Mark included; and in this episode Mark discusses why Stephen Hawking was, is, and will always be an inspiration and a hero to him - mostly because of the way that he never allowed his Motor Neuron Disease to stop him from achieving greatness in the eyes of many people through the power of his mind, his thoughts, and his theories concerning the beginning and the inner workings of the universe. Mark also recites his poems "Stephen Hawking", "Wanderlust", and "In Alignment".

This episode has an ornithological theme to it, because this episode is all about Mark's immense fascination with birds of ever kind, species, size, and disposition. In this episode Mark describes some of the many wonderful, magical, and inspiring experiences that he has had with birds from all around the world. Mark also recites his poems "The Dissimulation of Birds", "The Falcon", and "Corvus".

In this episode Mark discusses the potential of humanity - while also reviewing some of the poems that he has written over the past six months which he has received wonderful feedback from: in particular his poems "Pool of Contemplation", "Infinity", and "The Comet". Mark explains what he thinks about the poems he has written and what they mean to him. And Mark discusses what direction he hopes the human race will collectively choose to take in the future if we are to one day reach for the stars.

In this episode Mark discusses one his favourite science fiction story types and themes in films, in TV shows, and in literature: time travel. Mark discusses some of his favourite depictions of Time Travel in entertainment - from the 'Bill & Ted' films, to the 'Back to the Future' trilogy, to 'Doctor Who', to 'Quantum Leap' - whose stories revolve around "time travelers" and "time machines" traveling into the future or to the past. Mark talks about the potential of there one day being real life "time tourists" and the potential paradoxes that might ensue as a result. And Mark also recites his poems "The Time Traveller" and "Be Excellent To One Another".

In this episode Mark talks about his preoccupation with the art of procrastination and Mark talks about the time that he has spent sitting, staring, thinking, imagining, and writing all of the creations of his own imagination that he has written over the years that were eventually published for all the world to read. Mark recites his poems "The Thinker", "Cogito ergo sum (I think therefore I am)", and "The Rhyme of the Constant Writer". And Mark explains why he loves being someone who thinks and feels deeply about a great many things.

In this episode Mark talks about the importance of being a hopeful optimist, especially when faced with times in our lives when things seem out of our control. Mark discusses his theory that everybody is on a path and on a journey throughout their lives that can be filled with both beginnings and endings, which are occasionally interchangeable and one and the same. Mark also recites his poems "The Path of The Poet", "This is the way", and "Never Stop Reaching".

In this episode Mark recites his poems "Dusk", "Woodland", "The Golden Season", and "The Ancient Ones" - and Mark discusses and explains his love of nature and the environment, and why it is vital for humanity to preserve the natural beauty and the wildlife of planet Earth. Mark talks about the magical time of the day that is sunset and the inspiration that can be drawn from that time by many like-minded people who understand and who appreciate the true gifts of the natural world.

In this episode Mark takes a deep-dive into his 2018 book "Playing God", and he reveals the hidden identity of the enigmatic and mysterious protagonist of the seven stories within: "The Man in Black". Mark reveals why he was inspired to write the short-stories of "Playing God" and who he based the appearance of his protagonist on. Mark talks about his love of David Bowie. And Mark explains why "Playing God" is one of his favourite books that he has written and why the stories within will always mean something profound to him. Mark also recites his poems "Always the Starman" and "Hermes".

In this episode Mark recites some of the poems that he has recently written and shared: his poems "The Dark Horse", "Liberty will not fall", "Strange New World", and "The Nervous System" - and Mark discusses what inspired him to write these poems in particular. Mark also segways into a discussion about his own personal literary hero and God - William Shakespeare - and what impact they have had on him since he first began writing poetry.

In this episode Mark discusses humanity, life, and he explains why he thinks it is important now more than ever for people from all around the world to pull together and work with one another for a common purpose and to embody the true essence of what it means to be human. Mark also recites his poems "Human Condition", "Albatross", and "Lucky to be here".

In this epsiode Mark talks about the daily routines and rituals that some people have, that he has, and that everybody has, that aids in giving everyone's daily life a structure to follow and which can also give a person's life the much needed meaning that they require. Mark recites his poems "Morning", "Brand New Day", "Like Clockwork", and "Ritual".

In this episode Mark talks about his love of the natural world and he shares his concerns about the ongoing, often destructive, influence that humanity has, and has had, upon Earth's environment and his hope that humanity can one day find a way to turn back the tide of the damage that has been wrought. Mark also recites his poems "Nature's Poetry', "Nature and Me", "In Their Nature", and "The O Factory".

In this poem Mark talks about the light, the energy, the heat, and the inspiration that he and everyone who is lucky enough to be able to can enjoy because of our closest star: the sun. Mark also recites his sun-inspired poems "Orb", "Broad Daylight", "The Brightest of the Bright", and "Continue to Shine".

This epsiode is dedicated to the innocent men, women, and children who tragically lost their lives during the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001, and also to all the family members of those who daily suffer the physical and mental scars as a result of the events of that nightmarish day - who Mark thinks about, and who Mark has mourned for every day since that horrific day. All the poems that Mark recites in this episode were all written as a memorial to the memory of those who lost their lives and so that no one would ever forget what happened on that day that has been ingrained into the mind of everybody who remembers that day like it was yesterday. Mark's recitation of his poems "Memorial", "The Shining Light", "Between Sunrise and Sunset", and "Pause" are all dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives and all those who were affected by the Earth-shattering acts of terrorism of September 11th, 2001. May we never forget.

In this episode Mark dives deep into what people from all around the world choose to do to get some "R&R" - some "Rest & Relaxation" - and what some people do for fun in order to remove themselves from the pressures of the outside world that they may perhaps feel beholden to. Mark discusses what he likes to do for "R&R". And Mark recites his poems "Rest Assured", "Hang Out" and "Conduit".

In this episode Mark talks about podcasting and he shares some recommendations of the podcasts that he listens to on a weekly basis. Mark discusses the importance of communication and why he enjoys delving into the depths of insight that can be attained by listening to first-hand accounts by people - including those close to the production of a TV show or a movie via documentaries and commentaries. Mark also recites his poems "Vox", "The Microphone", and "Communication".

In this episode Mark discusses the symbolism of flowers, and how roses in particular have come to embody life and the slow march of time in many different forms of literature. Mark also recites his poems "Roses", "Roses in December", "Lotus", and "Poppy".

This episode is dedicated to Mark's favourite television series and his favourite Science Fiction franchise: Star Trek! Mark discusses his long history of being a "Trekkie" and what Star Trek, which first premiered on September 8, 1966, and all the Star Trek TV series' mean to him and what he has learned from their many episodes about the importance of embracing life, diversity, exploration, discovery. Mark also recites his poems "Live Long and Prosper", "Trekker, and "Those Distant Stars".

In this episode Mark discusses his person ethos and motto, "everything happens for a reason", and the serendipitous events that occasionally transpire throughout life, the connections that people from all around the world have to one another, as well as why things sometimes happen the way that they do. Mark also recites his poems "Serendipitous", "Dramarama", and "Time Capsule".

In this episode Mark discusses the power of memories and experiences that stay with people - moments that seem to last an infinite amount of time, and how powerful those moments can be. Mark also recites his poems "Infinite Photograph", "The Falling Leaf", and "Here".

In this episode Mark discusses the importance of embracing the infinite diversity that exists in the and why he thinks might benefit from learning to be understanding of other people and who they choose to be rather than judgemental. Mark also recites his poems "The Sound of Mark", "Our Room", and "Epilogue".

In this episode Mark discusses the power of imagination and inspiration and why he believes that everybody is gifted with the gift of imagination and inspiration to be able to do anything that they put their mind to - and what he feels about the gift that he has been blessed with. Mark recites his poems "Let Me Go, and I Will Run", "Read My Thoughts", and "Heart of a poet" to exemplify his artistic path as a writer and a poet.

In this episode Mark discusses the importance of family and what his own family means to him through the recitation of his poems "Family", "Big Brother", "Mum", and "My Dad".

In this episode Mark discusses one of his favourite fictional characters, Sherlock Holmes, created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and some of the live-action portrayals of the character that there has been over the years. Mark also recites his Sherlock Holmes-inspired poem 'The Great Detective", his poem "Elementary", and his poem "The Shard of Hope" that he was inspired to write by his experiences of visiting and walking around the great City of London.

In this episode Mark does a deep-dive into his 2016 book of short-stories and poetry "Too Close To The Sun" and he explains the reasons why he wrote the "edgy" stories that he included within and what he was attempting to explore, with his characters, within the stories that he had published together. Mark also recites his poems "Too Close To The Sun" and "Psychic Arithmetic".

In this episode Mark talks about his love and fascination with language, in all it's forms, and he explains how he uses the language of poetry to full-effect. Mark also recites his poems "Words Enough and Time", "Everybody Is A Poet", "The Theory of Poetry", and "Poeta Universalis".

In this episode Mark discusses what it is like to be an "early bird" - someone who gets out of bed sometimes even before the sunrise - and Mark recounts some of the many times when he has awoken early in the morning and he has been instantly inspired to write something, which is the recurring story of any and every artist. Mark also recites his poems "Morning", "Perpetual Night", "Keep Writing", and "Hello Sun".

In this episode Mark gives his first hand review of film Director Christopher Nolan's new mind-blowing and time-bending movie, "Tenet", and he talks about the other Christopher Nolan films that he has seen and what he thought about them. And Mark also recites two poems - one old, and one brand new: "Cinema" and "It's good to be back".

In this magic-themed episode Mark discusses all things magical - including what it was like for him to be in the audience to see the amazing illusionist and mentalist Derren Brown perform his stage show 'Miracle' back in 2016. Mark also discusses his memories of watching magic being performed on television when he was a child. And Mark recites his magic inspired poems "The Showman", "The Art of The Act", and "Houdini".

In this episode Mark discusses the wonderful randomness of life and the beautiful and inspiring things that can arise from life when people least expect them to. Mark also randomly selects fours poems, from four of his books, to read for your enjoyment - which turned out to be his poems "Nature and Me", "Did", "Mercury", and "Right".

In this episode Mark discusses his love of Art in all its forms, and Mark discusses some of his favourite artists - from Vincent Van Gogh to Banksy. Mark also recites his art inspired poems "Where Art Endows", and "Mark of a Masterpiece".

In this episode Mark talks about what motivates him and why it is important for people to have something in their life that gives them motivation in all avenues of their life. Mark also recites his poems "Your Thing", "Superpower", and "Full Circle".

In this episode Mark discusses one the most amazing institutions in the world: the great British National Health Service - one of the wonders of the modern age - and the people of the N.H.S. who have cared for and who saved countless lives since its establishment, including some of the people in Mark's family. Mark recites his poems "God Bless the N.H.S", "An Angel In Blue Scrubs", and "Nightingales". And Mark discloses some of his and his family's most recent experiences with the great men and women who make up the N.H.S. and what it means to him.

In this episode Mark recounts the profound experience that he had of meeting one of his favourite authors, Neil Gaiman, at a book-signing back in 2014, and he recounts that give a copy of his book "Poet of the Sphere" to Neil as a gift, and Mark talks about some of his favourite Neil Gaiman books that he has read. Mark discusses another of his favourite authors, Stephen King, and some of his favourite books written by Stephen King that he has read. And Mark recites his poems "Author to Author", "Autograph", and "Burning Bright".

In this episode Mark goes all the way to the beginning of his journey as a writer and an author, and he explains where, who, what, when, and why he became a poet and an author. Mark also recites the first poem from his first book of poetry, Poet of the Sphere, that was published in 2012, called "The Poet" which describes who Mark is and why he loves being a poet.

In this episode Mark talks about his experiences, his love, and his unbreakable connection with the one and the only New York City - which he visited in September, 2013. Mark also recites some poems inspired by New York City, which he wrote to memorialize and to immortalise his intense memories and his experiences of being in New York City and the sadness that he felt having to leave it when he did: "My N.Y.", "The Manhattan Solstice", "Unforgettable Sixth Avenue", and "The Wonder City".

In this episode Mark focuses his attention towards all things Space... "the final frontier" - which Mark has always been fascinated by and drawn to the wonders of, which he has always been inspired by, and he discusses some of the stories, films, and TV shows that are set in space that he still enjoys the most. And Mark also recites some poems inspired by Space: "Silent Light", "Star Stuff", "Beautiful Extremes", and "Sputnik".

In this episode Mark does a film review for the 2019 movie 'Yesterday', directed by Danny Boyle, and discusses the connection that he and his family have to the music of The Beatles. Mark recites his poem "Dear John Lennon", which was written for and dedicated to the late great John Lennon back in 2011, from his book 'Poet of the Sphere'. And Mark recites his poem "For the love of music" from his 2015 book 'The Eternal Boy'.

In this podcast Mark takes a deep dive into his most recent book, 'The Rambler', which came out in June 2020, and he explains what the poems of his most recent poetry collection revolve around. Mark also recites his poems "Every Day's Eye" and "Ramblers" from 'The Rambler'. And Mark discusses his love of walking, hiking, rambling, and the connection that he feels exists between nature and poetry, and what fuels the fire of inspiration within him.

This episode features a special musical demonstration of Mark's new DIY ukulele, as well as a discussion about the importance of music and the inspirational and transformative power of music in all its forms. Mark recites his poem "The Perfect Song" while attempting to strum something on his ukulele, and Mark also recites his poem "There are always possibilities". Why a ukulele? Why not?

This episode is dedicated to the sadly missed Robin Williams, one of the greatest and the most profound actors, comedians, and sources of hope and joy the world has ever known. In this episode Mark recites his poem "Robin" that he wrote days after the untimely death of Robin Williams in 2015, that he included in his 2015 poetry collection 'The Eternal Boy'. Mark also recites his poem "The Prolific" from his book The Dreamer and the Dream". And Mark discusses the subject of mental health and the daily darkness and depression that many people have to daily struggle with and why it is important for us all to surround ourselves with the right kind of people.

In this episode Mark recites two brand new poems that he wrote, one after the other, on the same morning - "Painting by Numbers" and "Bask". And Mark discusses how he writes, what he writes, why he writes, when he writes, and where he writes his poems and his stories.

In this episode Mark discusses the importance of libraries, bookstores, stories, and books in general on people and on the world. Mark also discusses his love of the book 'Fahrenheit 451' by Ray Bradbury and its 1966 film adaptation. And Mark recites his poems "Reading Is Believing" and "The Book People" from his book The Dreamer and The Dream.

In this episode Mark discusses his writing process - including where he writes and why. And Mark also recites a poem from his 2015 book "The Dreamer and the Dream", 'The Feeling', and also one of his most recent poem that he has written, "Eyes", and talks about how his writing style may have evolved over the years.

In this episode Mark reads the introduction from his book of poetry "The Dream and the Dream" which was published in 2015, and he recites the first poem that he ever wrote, "Blessed". Mark also reads a poem from his book "The Dreamer and the Dream" called 'Garden of Inspiration'.

In this episode Mark discusses his collaboration with Seen, an independent electronic artist from the U.S., and the journey that a simple poem that Mark wrote 10 years ago took to become one heard by the world in the form of a song called "Sunrise".

In the premiere episode of his podcast, poet, writer, author, Mark Hastings, discusses what is important to him and why it is important to stay hopeful and optimistic, despite what the world is currently going through - which is sometimes hard to contend with. And Mark also discusses what writing means to him and he recites one of his most recent poems, "A Summer Like No Other", which captures what the world is going through.