The IMDb Show Season 2 Episode 32 Rob Reiner

When it comes to Hollywood legends, few come close to Rob Reiner. The actor, director, and producer has an illustrious career spanning over five decades, with credits that include the iconic films "This Is Spinal Tap," "The Princess Bride," and "When Harry Met Sally." In this episode of The IMDb Show, host Tim Kash sits down with Reiner to discuss his latest film, "Shock and Awe," which chronicles the journalists who uncovered the reasons behind the US going to war in Iraq.

Reiner begins by talking about the importance of journalism in today's political climate, saying, "I think journalism is under attack more than it's ever been. The truth is under attack more than it's ever been, and we need it now more than ever." He goes on to explain how the Iraq War was sold to the American public through propaganda and lies, and why it's important to remember that misinformation when analyzing current events. "I think that people have to know that what they're getting from the government is not necessarily the truth," he says.

Kash also asks Reiner about his time on "All in the Family," the groundbreaking sitcom that aired from 1971 to 1979. Reiner played Michael Stivic, the son-in-law of the show's lead character, Archie Bunker. The show tackled a range of controversial topics, from racism to homosexuality, and was considered controversial at the time. Reiner talks about the show's impact, saying, "People still talk about it today. They analyze it, they look at it, they study it, and it was really just a sitcom." He also reflects on his relationship with the show's creator, Norman Lear, and describes him as a mentor and father figure. "He's one of the most amazing people I've ever met in my life," Reiner says.

Later in the episode, Reiner delves into his approach to directing. He describes himself as a "storyteller," saying, "I don't look at myself as an artist. I look at myself as a craftsman." He also talks about the importance of casting, revealing that he wrote the part of Sally Albright in "When Harry Met Sally" specifically for Meg Ryan. "I knew that Meg had a quality that nobody else had, which was this kind of winsomeness and vulnerability and humor," he says.

As the conversation comes to a close, Reiner reflects on his career and shares some advice for aspiring filmmakers. He stresses the importance of persistence and dedication, saying, "If you really want to do something in this business, you have to get up every day and think about it and work towards it." He also emphasizes the need for collaboration, saying, "The key to this business is really about working with people and working with good people."

Overall, this episode of The IMDb Show is a fascinating look into the life and career of one of Hollywood's most iconic figures. From his time on "All in the Family" to his latest film, "Shock and Awe," Rob Reiner remains a force in the industry, and his insights and reflections are not to be missed.