As 2026 gets underway, the entertainment industry is taking a brief pause before awards season, winter television premieres, and the next wave of buzzy releases arrive. In that calm, craft-focused conversations are finding space to breathe—and that’s where behind-the-scenes storytelling is shining brightest. This week’s Top of the Line Craft newsletter highlights why BTS content still matters and how it continues to evolve beyond traditional DVD commentaries.
A Quiet Week, Rich With Craft
With guild awards not yet in full swing, this week offered a rare moment to reflect on process rather than outcomes. The focus shifted away from box office chatter and toward the people who build stories from the ground up—editors, sound designers, cinematographers, costume teams, and makeup artists. That mindset is perfectly embodied by the official podcast for Pluribus, which wrapped its first season recently.
Why the Pluribus Podcast Stands Out
Hosted by editor Chris McCaleb, the Pluribus podcast goes beyond surface-level reflections. McCaleb, who honed his BTS storytelling skills during Better Call Saul, brings a deep respect for the collaborative nature of television. Instead of centering solely on actors or showrunners, the podcast features standalone episodes with sound teams, directors of photography, costume designers, and choreographers. These conversations trace ideas from the writers’ room through pre-production, filming, and post—offering listeners a rare, holistic view of how a show is made.
Dropout’s Smart Approach to BTS Content
Another standout example comes from Dropout, which continues to invest in accessible, engaging behind-the-scenes extras. The platform’s series Very Important People is complemented by short “Last Looks” mini-episodes that explore how each character is built.
Hosted by Vic Michaelis, these segments bring viewers face-to-face with the creative teams behind the scenes. Director Tamar Levine, makeup department head Alex Perrone, and prosthetics specialist Bruce Spaulding Fuller share details ranging from dental appliances to alien goo techniques. The result is content that deepens appreciation for the show while reinforcing the idea that comedy, like drama, is meticulously handcrafted.
The Modern Version of DVD Commentaries
While physical media commentaries are no longer standard, their spirit is alive in podcasts, mini-docs, and integrated BTS features. These formats provide context, preserve institutional knowledge, and give audiences a stronger connection to the art they consume. The argument is simple: if streaming platforms can offer multiple language tracks, they can also make room for creator commentaries and production insights.
What’s Ahead for Craft Coverage
Although the Craft desk has been relatively quiet, there were notable highlights, including fresh coverage tied to Avatar: Fire and Ash and an in-depth look at the music of Song Sung Blue. Looking ahead, January promises expanded international film coverage, renewed focus on casting as a discipline, and, of course, Sundance.
