Ep 8. Filmmaker Ed Burns & Bridesmaids' Paul Feig

In The Mortified Sessions season 1 episode 8, viewers get a unique glimpse into the lives of two incredibly talented individuals: filmmaker Ed Burns and Bridesmaids director Paul Feig. Over the course of the episode, Burns and Feig sit down with host David Nadelberg to discuss the moments from their childhood that shaped who they are today.

For Burns, his upbringing in a tight-knit Irish Catholic family in New York City provided the inspiration for many of his acclaimed films, including The Brothers McMullen, Sidewalks of New York, and She's the One. Throughout the episode, Burns delves into everything from his early experiences as a dyslexic student to his rise through the ranks of the independent film world. He also talks openly about some of the more difficult moments of his childhood, including the loss of his father at a young age.

Feig, meanwhile, opens up about his experiences growing up in the Midwest, where he often felt like an outsider as a kid. It was those feelings of alienation that would later inspire some of the most beloved comedies of our time, including Freaks and Geeks and Bridesmaids. Over the course of the episode, Feig reflects on everything from his early creative ambitions to his teenage years spent navigating the tricky waters of the high school social scene.

Throughout the episode, Nadelberg serves as the perfect guide, asking thought-provoking questions that allow Burns and Feig to really open up about their pasts in a way that feels honest and authentic. Whether they're discussing the challenges of being a working parent in Hollywood or reflecting on the transformative nature of adolescence, the conversation between the three men is always engaging and insightful.

Of course, it wouldn't be The Mortified Sessions without a healthy dose of embarrassing childhood artifacts, and this episode certainly doesn't disappoint in that regard. Burns and Feig both share some truly cringeworthy stories from their youth, from Feig's misguided attempts at becoming a local magician to Burns' cringe-inducing diary entries from his teenage years.

Ultimately, what makes this episode so compelling is the clear sense of respect and admiration that all three men have for one another. Burns and Feig are two of the most successful and respected filmmakers working today, and it's easy to see why when you watch this episode. Their stories are filled with humor, heart, and insight, and they serve as a testament to the power of self-reflection and self-awareness.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of Burns and Feig's work or just someone who appreciates honest storytelling, The Mortified Sessions season 1 episode 8 is an absolute must-watch. It's a fascinating look into the lives of two of the most important voices in contemporary cinema, and it's also a reminder that no matter how successful someone might be, they were once just awkward kids trying to find their place in the world.