Checkin' The Gate

About Checkin' The Gate

Checkin’ the Gate is a film, television and culture podcast taking a look at the week's in content through the eye of an Atlanta based actor with an insatiable appetite for all things scripted ! Each episode explores the real experiences and realities of being an actor pursuing greatness. Hosted by Owen Rogers each episode features a breakdown in the latest prestige and Fandom television and all the hotest movies. Additionally each week spotlights an independent project created by people of color not produced by a major streamer. From directors and cinematographers to producers, artists, and cultural insiders, Checkin’ the Gate offers unfiltered insight into how stories get made and what project make it out production into the zeitgeist. Honest dialogue, sharp observations, and practical perspective for anyone navigating or curious about the film and creative world. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a fellow actor or a content junkie, this is where you check in before takeoff.

Publisher

Owen Rogers

Category

tv & film · tv & film · tv & film

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

29 Jan 2026

Latest episode

6 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Sept 2026

   Macon Film Festival, Lanterns, X-Men ’97, Silo, Widows Bay & Hollywood’s Latest Moves | Episode16

   Owen Rogers checks in from the Macon Film Festival with the latest in Hollywood, TV, film, and the life of a working actor. This week: major casting and franchise news, X-Men '97, Silo, Lucky, Lanterns, the Black indie spotlight: Porch Banditz, and the latest box office numbers.

2. 

   8 Aug 2026

   Spider-Man: Brand New Day Breakdown live from Japan, Marvel News, Charm City Kings and X-Men 97| Episode 15

   This week on Checkin' the Gate, Owen Rogers checks in live from Japan with another packed episode covering Marvel, television, film industry news, and the latest from the world of independent Black cinema. In The Check-In, Owen runs through a major week in entertainment, including Wonder Man being canceled, Spider-Man crossing the $1 billion mark, an upcoming Linkin Park documentary, and major casting news surrounding God of War, Ghost Rider, Black Panther, and more. The main spotlight this week is Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Owen breaks down the trailer, the growing number of cameos, the introduction of characters and mythology connected to the mutant world, and what Marvel may be setting up for the future of the MCU. From Jean Grey and the Punisher to Hulk, Yelena, Scorpion, and the Hand, there is a lot happening beneath the surface. Then it's Checking the Gate, with Owen diving into X-Men '97, Rick and Morty, Silo, and Lucky, looking at everything from Onslaught and Magneto to portal guns, shifting timelines, memory loss, cryptocurrency, and the expanding Apple TV+ lineup. The Black Indie Spotlight revisits Charm City Kings, the Baltimore-set coming-of-age drama starring Jahi Di'Allo Winston and featuring Meek Mill, exploring its bike culture, independent production, and journey to release during the COVID era. Finally, Owen closes with the box office, including Spider-Man, The Odyssey, Toy Story, Minions, and Moana. From Japan to the MCU, from prestige television to independent Black film, this is Checkin' the Gate.

3. 

   25 Jul 2026

   Odyssey makes land, X-Men '97 Returns, Fanatics Fest NYC, and Euphoriai is Back? | Episode 14

   This week on Checkin' the Gate, Owen Rogers checks in after returning from Fanatics Fest NYC, reflecting on the intersection of sports, entertainment, fandom, and pop culture while diving into another packed week of Hollywood news. In The Check-In, Owen recaps Fanatics Fest, his trip to New Orleans for Tales of the Cocktail, and breaks down the biggest industry headlines—from new Marvel trailers and franchise announcements to biopics, comedy projects, and major casting news. From Batman Part II getting delayed to new Deadpool developments, it's another busy week across the entertainment landscape. This week's featured review spotlights Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Mixtape, a cameo-filled comedy that blends absurd humor, celebrity satire, and sketch comedy sensibilities while introducing several rising stars worth keeping an eye on. Then it's time for Checking the Gate, where Owen dives into the latest episodes of X-Men '97, Rick and Morty, Raising Kanan, My Adventures with Superman, and Silo, breaking down storylines, comic book lore, character development, and what's working across television. The Black Indie Spotlight highlights Back on the Strip, a Las Vegas-set comedy featuring an all-star ensemble led by Wesley Snipes, and explores how independent Black comedies continue carving out their own lane. Finally, Owen wraps with this week's box office report, including The Odyssey, Moana, and Toy Story. If you love movies, television, comic books, Black cinema, and conversations from the perspective of a working actor, welcome to Checkin' the Gate.

4. 

   9 Jul 2026

   Tribeca, ABFF, Punisher: One Last Kill, The Bear: Gary & Breakdowns of series from first half of 2026 | Episode 13

   In The Check-In, Owen recaps experiences around the Tribeca Festival and the American Black Film Festival while unpacking industry news, including casting announcements, franchise updates, and the latest developments from Marvel, television, and Hollywood. This week's featured discussion dives into The Punisher one-shot special and The Bear episode "Gary," exploring grounded storytelling, character development, and why both projects represent some of the strongest television of the year. Then it's time for Checking the Gate, where Owen wraps up Euphoria, breaks down the season finales of The Boys, catches up with FROM, Hacks, Rooster, and Your Friends & Neighbors, Half-Man and discusses what worked, what didn't, and what's next. The Black Indie Spotlight highlights a visually ambitious revenge thriller Is God Is starring Vivica A Fox, Janelle Monáe, and more. We examinine its style, marketing, and place within contemporary Black genre filmmaking. Finally, Owen wraps up with the latest box office results, including Minions, Toy Story, Backrooms, and other theatrical releases. while catching up on some films from the first half of the year that flew under the radar. If you love movies, television, Black cinema, and honest conversations about navigating the entertainment industry, welcome to Checkin' the Gate

5. 

   13 May 2026

   Euphoria, The Boys, The Audacity, I Love Boosters & Hitting Film the Festival Circuit |Episode 12

   This week on Checkin’ the Gate, Owen Rogers checks in from the intersection of indie film culture, industry movement, and prestige television chaos. Owen breaks down experiences from the Atlanta Film Festival and Indie Vegas Film Festival, while unpacking the latest industry headlines shaping film and TV. From renewals and cancellations to major franchise announcements, the conversation covers everything from The Bear and Top Gun to Fantastic Four director Matt Shakman joining the next Planet of the Apes film. Then we spotlight this week’s theme: film festivals, creative networking, and what these spaces actually mean for independent filmmakers and working creatives trying to break through. From there, it’s Checkin the Gate, a full breakdown of what’s worth watching right now across TV and streaming, including Euphoria, The Boys, Daredevil, Invincible, Hacks, FROM, and more. Expect real conversations about storytelling, satire, spectacle, and character arcs without the gatekeeping. We also spotlight I Love Boosters, the latest visually ambitious project from Boots Riley, and discuss where it lands within modern Black sci-fi and surrealist filmmaking.

6. 

   28 Apr 2026

   Malcolm in the Middle Returns, Invincible season finale, Euphoria, Daredevil, Industry Updates & This Week in TV | Epispode 11

   This week on Checkin’ the Gate, Owen Rogers checks in with a candid look at the ups and downs of the industry, from missed auditions to staying tapped into the culture and momentum around film and television. In The Check-In, Owen breaks down a week of near-misses and movement, including major industry headlines from CinemaCon, new project announcements, and shifts in the production landscape. From independent moves by major players to upcoming releases and casting updates, this is the real pulse of the business. Then we get into this week’s spotlight: Malcolm in the Middle: Life Is Still Unfair, a revival that revisits one of the most iconic sitcoms of its era. Owen unpacks what works, what feels different, and how the show evolves for a new generation. From there, it’s Checking the Gate, a deep dive into what’s actually worth watching right now across TV and streaming, including Will Trent, The Boys, Daredevil, Invincible, Euphoria, and more. Expect real takes on character arcs, tone shifts, and where these shows are pushing boundaries or losing focus. We also highlight the indie film The Final Play, a throwback to classic Black romance storytelling, and close with a breakdown of the latest box office trends, including The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Project Hail Mary. If you’re tapped into film, television, and the reality behind the scenes, this is where you check in before takeoff.

7. 

   16 Apr 2026

   Euphoria and Hacks Returns, Daredevil and Invincible check-in Lorne Michaels Doc, Industry Moves and this week in TV| Episode 10

   This week on Checkin’ the Gate, Owen Rogers checks in from the middle of the process, balancing auditions, missed opportunities, and real momentum while tapping into the latest shifts across film and television. In The Check-In, we get a grounded look at the week: auditions (and near-misses), time on set in Atlanta, and key industry headlines, from expanding production companies to major casting news and trailer drops. The conversation touches everything from Euphoria buzz to new moves from creators shaping the next phase of the industry. Then we spotlight the documentary Lorne, unpacking the legacy and influence of Lorne Michaels, his creative process, and the long arc of Saturday Night Live as a cultural institution. From there, it’s Checking the Gate, a deep dive into what’s actually working across TV and streaming right now, including Will Trent, High Potential, DTF, Rooster, Euphoria, Hacks, Daredevil, and Invincible. Expect real analysis, summation and contextualization. We for our black indie spotlight we revisit 2004's Sucker Free City, directed by Spike Lee, exploring its cultural relevance, performances, and legacy. To close, Owen breaks down the box office, including The Super Mario Bros. If you’re tapped into film, television, and the real journey behind the scenes, this is where you check in before takeoff.

8. 

   4 Apr 2026

   Euphoria Trailer, Amazon's Balls Up, Invincible, South West High & this week in TV | Episode 9

   This week on Checkin’ the Gate, Owen Rogers checks in with a raw look at the realities of the industry, from near-misses to momentum, and everything in between. In The Check-In, Owen breaks down a week full of submissions, festival selections, and the complicated experience of seeing a project move forward without you. He also taps into major industry updates, including trailer buzz around Euphoria and Beef Season 2, directorial moves from major artists, and new high-level collaborations shaping the next wave of film and television. Then we get into a spotlight review of Balls Up, unpacking its comedic dynamics, performances, and where it lands culturally. From there, it’s Checking the Gate, a deep dive into what’s actually worth watching right now across TV and streaming. Expect real insight into story arcs, character development, and standout performances across shows like Will Trent, High Potential, Paradise, and Invincible. We also highlight the indie series Southwest High, exploring its place in the lineage of Black coming-of-age and school-centered storytelling. To close, Owen breaks down the box office, including Ready or Not, with a look at what’s connecting with audiences and where films are missing. If you care about film, storytelling, and the reality behind the industry, this is where you check in before takeoff.

9. 

   26 Mar 2026

   Oscars Breakdown, Industry News & TV Watchlist (Will Trent, Invincible, Paradise, Rooster & more) and Project Hail Mary Breakdown | Episode 8

   This week on Checkin’ the Gate, Owen Rogers taps in from the front lines of the industry, breaking down life as a working actor while unpacking the biggest moments shaping film and television right now. We start covering real-time industry movement, from auditions and indie screenings to major shifts across projects like Wonder Man, Hacks, and more. This is the part of the conversation you don’t usually hear the day-to-day reality behind the work. From there, we get into the Oscars conversation, diving into this year’s biggest headlines, standout wins, and cultural moments, including historic cinematography milestones and major reactions across the industry. Expect context, not just commentary. Then it’s time for Checking the Gate, where Owen runs through what’s actually worth watching right now across TV and streaming. From Will Trent and High Potential to Paradise, Invincible, and emerging comedies like DTF St Louis Invincible and Rooster, this is a real watchlist with insight into storytelling, performances, and where shows are hitting or missing. The episode also spotlights the Black indie film The Inevitable Defeat of Mister & Pete, breaking down its cultural impact, performances, and why it still resonates. We close with a box office and film breakdown, including early thoughts on Project Hail Mary and what’s working (and not working) in current sci-fi storytelling. If you care about film, television, and the creative process behind it all, this is where you check in before takeoff.

10. 

    17 Mar 2026

    Euphoria Shakeups, Superman Casting, HBO’s New Comedies Rooster and DTF St Louis & Prime's Bad Man| Episode 7

    This week on Checkin the Gate, Owen Rogers breaks down major Hollywood shakeups, including Euphoria changes, Aaron Pierre joining Superman, and new projects from Quentin Tarantino and RZA. From industry news to on-set reality, Owen gives an insider perspective on what these moves actually mean for working actors. Plus, a deep dive into Prime Video’s Bad Man, HBO’s breakout comedies Rooster and DTF St. Louis, and the latest episodes of Will Trent, High Potential, and more. The episode also features a Black indie spotlight on On Becoming a Guinea Fowl, a globally acclaimed film exploring culture, identity, and family dynamics. If you’re into prestige TV, streaming hits, film industry insights, and honest takes from a working actor, this episode delivers.

11. 

    8 Mar 2026

    Scream 7, Industry FInale Power Plays & In The Blink of an Eye| Episode 6

    This week on Checkin the Gate, Owen Rogers checks in from the working actor grind with one audition on the books, an upcoming photography show, and progress on the indie film Edgewood. Then it’s time for industry headlines: a Game of Thrones movie in development, Zendaya and Tom Holland’s wedding making waves across Hollywood, Abbott Elementary renewed again, and Byron Allen making a major media power move. Owen spotlights the streaming sci-fi drama In the Blink of an Eye, starring Daveed Diggs and Rashida Jones, a series that’s less about time travel and more about grief, compromise, and the choices that shape our lives. Plus: updates on Hijack, Industry Finale, Paradise, the Atlanta-shot crime series DTF St. Louis, the Scrubs revival, and another wild entry in Cartoon Corner. On the film side, Owen dives into the Black indie feature 2021's "Millennials" starring Kyle Massey and Philip Daniel Bolden before breaking down the weekend box office led by Scream 7. Prestige TV, industry insight, horror franchise analysis, and the reality of chasing a career in Hollywood.

12. 

    2 Mar 2026

    “The Burbs, Industry, Undercard & Good Luck, Have Fun & Dont Die | episode 5

    This week on Checkin the Gate, Owen Rogers reflects on a missed audition and one on deck, and unpacks major industry headlines including agency ripple effects, studio talks reopening, and Apple’s move on the Severance universe. In TV, Owen spotlights The Burbs, an 8-episode Keke Palmer-led social satire packed with twists, and dives into a massive week of episodes from Industry, Will Trent, Hijack, and more. On the film side, there’s a breakdown of "Undercard" a Wanda Sykes-led sports drama shot beautifully for Black skin tones, and the AI-themed ensemble thriller Good Luck Have Fun Don’t Die. Smart, reflective, insider commentary on prestige TV, ensemble storytelling, representation, and what it really looks like to build a career in the business.

13. 

    22 Feb 2026

    “Lord of the Flies, RobIIIworld's new movie and a breakdown of Nirvanna The Band, The Show, The Movie. | Episode 4

    This week on Checkin the Gate, Owen Rogers breaks down the new BBC adaptation of Lord of the Flies from Adolescence creator Jack Thorne, unpacks this week in TV from St Dennis Medical to Will Trent. Plus, a Black indie spotlight on She Likes To Watch directed by Rob III World, a wild breakdown of Industry Season 4’s most suspenseful episode yet, and a candid look at this week’s box office including Wuthering Heights, GOAT, Crime 101, and the ambitious cult project Nirvanna The Band The Show The Movie. If you love prestige television, film analysis, acting insights, and honest industry commentary from a working Black actor, this is your weekly check-in.

14. 

    12 Feb 2026

    Super Bowl Trailers, Fallout Finale, Industry Chaos & Black Indie Film on a 30K Budget | Episode 3

    This week on Checking the Gate, actor Owen Rogers breaks down the biggest Super Bowl trailers, the Fallout season finale, Industry season 4 drama, and what it really looks like to navigate Hollywood as a working Black actor. From He-Man and Supergirl to Scream 7, Abbott Elementary, Will Trent, and indie action film Bullet Rush, this episode blends prestige TV reactions, box office talk, and behind the scenes industry insight you won’t hear on press junkets. If you love TV recaps, movie reviews, and honest conversations about breaking into the industry, this one’s for you

15. 

    3 Feb 2026

    Best episode of Industry ever??? Social media stars make it to the big screen | Episode 2

    This week on Checkin’ the Gate, actor and creative Owen Rogers breaks down the latest in prestige TV, film, and Black indie cinema from the perspective of a working actor navigating Atlanta’s industry hustle. From Industry season 4 and Fallout season 2 to surprising TV swings that almost work, Owen offers smart, honest reactions without the PR filter. The episode also features a Black Indie Spotlight on the newly released Terri Joe’s Miami Missionary and discusses the 2023 the indie film Once Again (For the Very First Time), plus a candid review of the new Chris Pratt film Mercy, as well as the documentary I'm Chevy Chase and You're Not. Along the way, Owen checks in on auditions, screenings, and the realities of chasing a career in entertainment while staying tapped into culture. If you love prestige TV, insider industry talk, and thoughtful takes from someone actually in the arena, you’re in the right place

16. 

    29 Jan 2026

    Wonder Man, Acting, and the Cost of Getting in Your Own Way

    In the premiere episode of Checkin’ the Gate, Owen Rogers breaks down Marvel’s Wonder Man Season 1, exploring its layered commentary on acting, identity, fandom, and what it means to pursue greatness while navigating the film industry as a Black actor.

17. 

    29 Jan 2026

    Trailer

    Checkin’ the Gate is a film, television, and culture podcast hosted by Atlanta-based actor Owen Rogers, exploring the week’s biggest stories in scripted content through a lived, industry-informed perspective that’s often missing from mainstream film commentary.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Contact Checkin' The Gate

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.