Cambridge Film Festival

Getting the Gang Back Together2024/02/26

To celebrate/commemorate a year since the last World Service broadcast of Digital Planet Gareth, Bill, Ghislaine, Angelica (online) and Ania are meeting up in a wine bar in central London on the evening of March 28 and we'd love to see old listeners and new friends there. Sign up on Eventbrite (search Digital Planet). And Gareth wants to tell you all about it..
Series finale, faking data vs synthetic data, and your views on photography2023/11/27

In this final episode of the series (we'll be back in the new year) Gareth and Bill muse on the ways generative AI can be used to fake experimental data, the uses of synthetic data, and we pick up the online conversation about 'computational imaging'.
Computational imaging, data recovery.. and some rapid scheduled disassembly2023/11/19

In this episode we reflect on SpaceX's latest mission and OpenAI's apparent implosion, muse on the nature of photography in an age of computational imaging, and discuss how the Super Pressure Balloon Imaging Telescope managed to get its data safely back to earth using Raspberry Pi computers.
eLORAN and GNSS, and the potential tricksiness of GPT-42023/11/12

In this episode Gareth eulogises the radio-based LORAN navigation system, and Bill wonders if GPT-4 is pulling a fast one. Or not. With an accelerated sketch and quite a lot of self-referential wittering.
Network security in cafes and pubs, and AI safety2023/11/05

In this episode Gareth picks up on a survey showing british people worry about wifi security in pubs - but is it just lazy marketing of VPNs? And our take on the UK AI Safety Summit. Plus more input from our esteemed listeners!
Can You Fix It? Only if they let you...2023/10/29

In this episode we discuss cars,tractors, smartphone and laptops, and why the right to repair the stuff you own matters, practically and philosophically. We find time to read out some comments from listeners, while the Gazmotron continues to wreak havoc.
Darker Skies and Pulsating Lights2023/10/22
Info (Show/Hide)

This week, once you're through the 'sketch', Gareth discusses a novel approach to countering light pollution by making LEDs flicker 150 times per second, and Bill looks forward to this year's Lumiere festival in Durham, England which will feature Rafael Lozano-Hemmer's Pulse Topology and brings back memories of the Venice Biennale in 2007 (the photo is Gareth and Colin interviewing Rafael)
Will Robots Think? And Who Needs Pictures?2023/10/16
Info (Show/Hide)

This week Bill reflects on the progress made using transformer networks to integrate language and visual processing with robotic control, particularly in Google DeepMinds RT-2, and whether we're heading for embodied awareness, while Gareth speaks out for the special place well-crafted audio has in the cultural landscape - who needs pictures? And we go purple about the Vesuvius Challenge. (Image of cocktail making robots taken at the Barbican 'AI: More than Human' exhibition in 2019. The Negroni was acceptable.)
Back again.. in one state or another2023/10/08

In this first episide of our second series, Gareth and Bill look at the progress being made in quantum computing, developing systems that use the properties of entangled 'qbits' instead of binary bits to carry out calculations. How can we be quantum-ready?
Gareth explores an abandoned radar station2023/10/04

Gareth found a fascinating site on his recent holiday in Lefkada, and you get to hear about it because he couldn't resist recording his impressions.
Gareth went to Krakow and had some thoughts...2023/07/05

As we move into summer, Gareth has been thinking about the how we experirence art and nature of our auditory experience, following a conference he attended in Krakow.
Are you there yet, Gareth?2023/06/14

This week Bill is thinking out loud about libraries, having just spoken at a conference of librarians. It's all about liminal spaces, apparently.
Are you there Gareth?2023/06/09

Just to keep the interwebs alert to our presence, here's a few minutes of Bill talking about Apple's Vision Pro, Metaphysics in the Metaverse, and AI Regulation.
Finding Yourself, and AI Phenomenology2023/05/30
Info (Show/Hide)

In this final episode of our first series, Gareth and Bill look at interesting research using satellite signals to geolocate, as an alternative to GPS. And Bill muses on his current thinking on the state of AI, and in particular why LLMs don't play language games and can't be part of the community of language users, since they don't have an inner life. (References the book Metaphysical Animals)
The Gareth and BillCast will return in a few weeks.
Twitter Trauma and Tell-tale Phones2023/05/22

Gareth and Bill are back, talking about the legal case against Twitter/XCorp from former employees, and the wider issue of how we create good online spaces. And we consider the dangers created when law enforcement agencies auction of seized phones without wiping them. Plus a short meditation on an alternative history and some comments from listeners.
Dangerous Stunts and Password-free Living2023/05/15

In this week's episode Gareth and Bill speculuate about what makes someone crash a plane for YouTube likes and discuss passkeys, a way to replace passwords that should be simpler and more secure - eventually. Plus a pointless sketch and some delighful comments from listeners. (And Gowri - you can find Dan Goodin's articles on Passkeys in Ars Technica)
Hot Secrets and AI Endgames2023/05/09

Bill and Gareth talk about new research using thermal cameras to crack passwords, and the old tired tropes about superintelligent AI taking over the world, and why Bill's had enough of it all. Plus comments from listeners and the inevitable opening sketch.
Icy Moons and the Early Web2023/05/01

In this episode Gareth and Bill look at the way the JUICE mission to Jupiter will look for signs of life using a magnetometer, Bill reflects on the early days of the Web and draws parallels to the growth of generative AI - and we reflect on the environmental damage caused by SpaceX's recent launch. And there are listener comments and a (briefer) sketch.
Thin chips and recycled cobalt2023/04/24

In this episode, Bill looks at Apple's plans to use only recycled cobalt in iPhone batteries, and the wider context of recovering and recycling metals for use in consumer electronics and batteries. Gareth has found another use for graphene, but this one seems like it might actually make it into widespread use. And we discuss rapid unscheduled disassemblies.
The Gareth and BillCast: Stealing cars and closing the public square2023/04/17

In this episode Gareth and Bill discuss how modern cars are being stolen using electronic devices that 'spoof' the internal control networks, and bemoan the passing of many small bots because Twitter has started charging for API access. Plus some feedback from listeners, for which we are always grateful.
The Gareth and BillCast: Hallucinating ML and Subverting Smart Speakers2023/04/10

In this first episode Gareth and Bill talk about why they're starting a podcast, explore the world of generative AI and why the machines keep making stuff up, and worry about how easy it is to get your smart speakers to do things without asking you first. Plus some banter and chat.
Coming soon: the Gareth and Billcast2023/04/09

After years of talking tech, Gareth Mitchell and Bill Thompson just can't seem to break the habit... first episode published Monday April 10.
June 11- #AudioMo - Don't Panic2021/06/11

A reflection on why twenty years of live radio helps when you're managing an online presentation. With added mic noise
June 10 - #AudioMo - listening to the world2021/06/10

A more contemplative time at the end of a busy day
June 09 - #AudioMo - At the Theatre2021/06/09

Another first - back at the theatre. And this time to see my son perform
June 08 - #AudioMo - Back in the studio2021/06/08

my first time in the radio studio with Gareth since December
June 07 - #AudioMo - Following Sophie Calle2021/06/07

A radio programme and a photo memory, and the usefulness of synchronicity. (Image shows artist Sophie Calle outside the French Pavilion at the 2007 Venice Biennale)
June 06 - #AudioMo - The Comfort of Radio2021/06/06

I've always listened to the radio. It's become more important in these pandemical times.
June 05 - #AudioMo - A Grand Day Out2021/06/05

On a hot saturday, I sat in a cool dark room with one shiny wall. It was splendid.
June 04 - #AudioMo - Making Digital Planet2021/06/04

We've been making Digital Planet (Go Digital / Click) for twenty years, but do it differently now
June 03 - #AudioMo - Cycling home from the pub2021/06/03

cycled to a pub. I ate and drank and talked and we were wonderfully indiscreet.

And it was special because it was with people I like but who are not precious to me. And for the last year I have carefully preserved my in person time for those I love.

Felt good
June 2 - #AudioMo - The View from a Desk2021/06/02

Day two, and I'm wondering how to work productively
June 01 - #AudioMo - The View from the Window2021/06/01

It's the first of June. Let's see how long I last...
June 30 - #AudioMo - Reflections on Audio Blogging2020/06/30

It's June 30 and the last day of #AudioMo, so I thought I'd talk about the process and the people and the joys of random chat.
June 29 - #AudioMo - The Ways We Talk2020/06/29

For the penulimate day of #AudioMo, June 29, I'm thinking about how language shapes thought, and how the words we use and the metaphors we choose can affect the ways we engage with others, especially when it comes to military metaphors.
June 28 - #AudioMo - The Joy of Email2020/06/28
Info (Show/Hide)

June 28, Sunday #AudioMo is a shoutout to the people who keep me informed about the world. You might find them interesting too…

Dan Hon: @hondanhon
https://danhon.substack.com/
Ira Bolychevsky: @shevski
https://redecentralize.org/
Azeem Azhar: @azeem
https://www.exponentialview.co/
Christian Payne: @documentally
http://documentally.com/
David Finnigan: @davidfinig
https://davidfinnigan.substack.com/
June 27 - #AudioMo - Becoming an Audience2020/06/27

June 27, and today's #AudioMo finds me missing that peculiar state of being together that we call 'an audience' and worrying about the future of live venues here in the UK.
June 26 - #AudioMo - Reflecting privilege2020/06/26

It's June 26 and the final stretch for #AudioMo, where I am reflecting on how I tell the story of my life, and what I don't say in the process.
June 25 - #AudioMo - How to Ignore a Crisis2020/06/25

Ninety days on a boat and in my #AudioMo for June 25 I reflect on how good we are at ignoring the enormity of what's going on. With added cat sounds.
June 24 - #AudioMo - Making a video2020/06/24

Wednesday June 24 and another #AudioMo, this time about filming, and being a councillor.
June 23 - #AudioMo - Plague, Inc.2020/06/23

My #AudioMo for June 23 is something I wrote in 2017, about a group of young people playing Plague, Inc. and what I thought about it at the time.
June 22 - #AudioMo - Letters and Poems2020/06/22

My #AudioMo for June 22, and I'm looking at pieces of paper and reflecting on what they mean, with memories of those distant and lost.

More about Beatie Wolfe https://beatiewolfe.com/
June 21 - #AudioMo - Remembering Hugh Mellor2020/06/21

June 21, and my #AudioMo tonight is a remembrance of Hugh Mellor, the philosopher and a former teacher of mine, who died today. With passing boats.
June 20 - #AudioMo - Riverside Tales2020/06/20

A solstice day on the river and the riverbank, involving turning boats, ducks, and the way joy pushes out despair

Erland Cooper's A Nightingale Sings Outside Our Window is here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIGcK0X2vf4
June 19 - #AudioMo- The VIew From Elsewhere2020/06/19

On June 19, as we head towards the solstice, my #AudioMo is a reflection on the week, and lockdown, and the importance of understanding how the pandemic is experienced elsewhere.
June 18 - #AudioMo - Whereof One Cannot Speak2020/06/18

It's June 18 but I have little to say for today's #AudioMo. I'll read Cheryl Misak's Frank Ramsay biography instead
June 17 - #AudioMo - Time to Pay2020/06/17

For my #AudioMo for June 17 I've disinterred a fairly random note from over a year ago about time travel and jewel thefts. It came from a time when I travelled on trains.
June 16 - #AudioMo - Bloomsday and Holidays2020/06/16

In my #AudioMo for June 16 I'm reflecting on #Bloomsday and the summer to come, and wondering what will happen to holidays and travel in 2020 - and what this means for those of us who are used to the summer being a slow time in the office.
June 15- #AudioMo - Made With Intent2020/06/15

It's June 15 and a change of topic for me in #AudioMo - away from space, and into time as I reflect on the small object that sits on my desk and keeps me company as I write.
June 14 - #AudioMo - Being there2020/06/14

Heading into #AudioMo for June 14 and I'm picking up on the extended conversation about presence and space in our blended world, with @katesparkle to @Omaniblog @willsh & @diva_diplomatic - but this time from the beach
June 12 - #AudioMo - Reclaiming Public Space2020/06/13

In my #AudioMo for June 13 I reflect on the ways we can reconfigure public space as we adapt to Covid-19, and how we need those who own private space to adapt.
June 12 - #AudioMo - No More Commuting2020/06/12

My AudioMo contribution for June 12 is a reflection on commuting - or its absence. And a realisation that it'll never go back to the way it was before.
June 11 - #AudioMo - Toppling Networks2020/06/11

My #AudioMo post for June 11 is a meditation on how hard it can seem to change systems.
June 10 - #AudioMo - Ecological Debt2020/06/10

Here's my #AudioMo for June 10. I wrote a thing and recorded it for @marcusromer's ShedX and so I'm playing the first part of it here and you can listen to the rest via Marcus

The text
http://www.astickadogandaboxwithsomethinginit.com/paying-off-our-ecological-debt/

The ShedX version
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BRnUrirIO0
June 9 - AudioMo - Why Context Matters2020/06/09

Day 9 of #AudioMo and I've been on air for @digitalplanet - and I'm reflecting on the importance of context and location, and how to make a space feel different when we many of us are spending so much time in one location.
June 8 - AudioMo - On Reflection2020/06/08

On Day 8 of #AudioMo things are a bit pressured as it's a long work day, but I have the Reflection app to keep me calm, with generative ambient music and imagery courtesy of Peter Chilvers and Brian Eno. Stay safe.
June 7 - AudioMo - Working Through the Lockdown2020/06/07

The weft of our daily lives has been unwound for many of us since SARS-COV-2 found its human hosts. Do we take this opportunity to rethink the warp, too, or are we content to weave the fabric on the same pattern.
June 6 - AudioMo - Reading Frank Ramsay2020/06/06

For today's #AudioMo I'm reflecting on a new book I'm reading, Cheryl Misak's life of the philosopher Frank Ramsay, and why deep reading matters in these turbulent times.
AudioMo - June 5 - A public centric internet2020/06/05

Day Five of #AudioMo, back on the boat. Another day, another recording, this one is less good quality audio but I hope the ideas are sound as I reflect on the nature of the network we all rely on.
June 4 - AudioMo - Coffee on Mill Road2020/06/04

Day Four of #AudioMo and I'm outside Relevant Record Cafe on Mill Road with a coffee and a sandwich talking about masks and plugging the new book @GearsForQueers which you *should* read!
June 3 - AudioMo - Social Capital2020/06/03

Day three of #AudioMo and I'm reflecting on the difficulties facing people at the start of their careers in a 'socially distanced' world.
#AudioMo - remembering the Pixel Palace2020/06/02

Today's #AudioMo recording finds me on the roof of a boat thinking about cinema and remembering the Pixel Palace at Tyneside Cinema in 2008. As I was recording this Mark Cosgrove (@msc45) was posting his excellent meditation on the same topic - so listen to me, read him, and rethink cinema https://www.the-bigger-picture.com/articles/transformative-impact-of-arts/
June 1: Watering the garden2020/06/01

It's early morning and I'm watering the garden and squashing cans
Just before #AudioMo2020/05/31

#AudioMo is a month long audio challenge created by @ernmander that takes part in June. Record an audio a day, tweet the link using #AudioMo.

I'm in
Councillor Katie Thornburrow Statement on Accordia Development2019/03/06

This is a recording of Katie's planned remarks relating to the planning application
Virtual Reality and Real Relationships2017/09/25

At the closing party for the 2017 Encounters Film Festival in Bristol, Catherine Allen and Bill Thompson discuss Second Date, Nairobi Berries and Blind Vaysha, all screened as part of the Immersive Encounters strand.
Daily Preview Podcast - 21/9/102010/09/21

A look ahead at the evening's festivities here at the Cambridge Film Festival
Daily Preview - 20/9/102010/09/20

A preview of all the goings on today the Cambridge Film Festival
Breaking News Update2010/09/20

A pair of breaking news items ahead of the main Daily Podcast later on today.
Daily Preview - 19/9/102010/09/19

A preview of all the day's events for the 4th day of the Festival, Sunday 19th September.
Daily Preview 18/9/102010/09/18

A look ahead to all the happenings of the Cambridge Film Festival on Saturday 18th September.
Daily Preview 17/9/102010/09/17

A podcast previewing all the films at the Cambridge Film Festival for the evening of the 17th of September.
Daily Preview 16/9/102010/09/16

A preview of the first day of the 30th Cambridge Film Festival
Closing weekend highlights2009/09/26
Highlights of the final weekend and the festival
Second Chance Screenings in the Cambridge Drama Centre2009/09/24
We're pleased to announce that a number of Festival films will be screened at an extra Festival venue over the next two days - the Cambridge Drama Centre on Covent Garden (the one off Mill Road in Cambridge)
Science on screen special2009/09/24
The Cambridge film festival presents a special science on screen audio report.
Berlin Films Collection Q&A2009/09/23
The Q&A from the Berlin Films collection at the Cambridge Film
Festival. Features the director of 'The Last Wash' - Ville Jankeri
Creation Q&A2009/09/23
The question and answer session from the film Creation.
23 September Podcast2009/09/23
An outline of todays events and screenings.
22 September podcast2009/09/22
Listings for this evening's programme at the arts picturehouse, Cambridge.
The Calling2009/09/21
A review of the film The Calling with highlights from the Q&A.
The First Day of the Rest of Your Life2009/09/21
A review and highlights of the Q&A from the film 'The First Day of the Rest of Your Life'.
September 21 Preview Podcast2009/09/21
A special look ahead at what's going on at the Festival on September 21
A Secret Message2009/09/19
A preview podcast for September 19... or is it?
September 19 preview2009/09/19
A preview of all the sights and sounds for the Festival for September 19 brought to you in an audio report.
Army of Crime Q&A Highlights2009/09/18
Highlights of the exclusive Q&A session with THE ARMY OF CRIME director Robert Guidiguian.
September 18 Preview2009/09/18
A preview of all the big goings-on for the second day of the 2009 Cambridge Film Festival.
Tony Jones introduces Cambridge Film Festival2009/09/17
Festival director Tony Jones kicks off the 29th Cambridge Film Festival and introduces ARMY OF CRIME director Robert Guediguian.
CFF Live! - opening night2009/09/17
It's the opening night of the 29th Cambridge Film Festival and this
podcast will tell you about some of the highlights and preview
tomorrow's screenings.
CFF09 Preview Podcast2009/08/27
The 29th Festival is fast approaching and Matt, our online intern for this year's Festival, is here to bring you a special taster podcast so you know what to expect from the Festival this year.
Sunday 28th September-Finale2008/09/28
Lindsay Brand, Lucy Newman and Max Thompson brave the festival bar to gather some final thoughts and feelings from the 28th Cambridge film festival. Please be away that the following podcast may contain some moderate language.
Machinima - 'Play's the thing'2008/09/28
Lindsay Brand and Alex Fraiser explore the Machinima talks from the cambridge film festival, focusing particularly on game-based machinima from the 'Play's the thing' discussion.
Import/Export Q&A with Ulrich Seidl 2008/09/25
Info (Show/Hide)
We were delighted to welcome director Ulrich Seidl to the screening of Import/Export after which he took part in a Q&A.

Both confrontational and compassionate, Seidl’s tale of migration and social borders weaves its way through contemporary Europe as it interrogates the political, cultural and economic forces which shape life here. Moving in diametrically opposed directions, the ﬁlm traces two of its citizens’ peripatetic journeys toward a better life: nurse Olga leaves the poverty of the Ukraine for a new start in Austria, while unemployed Austrian Paul heads to the Ukraine in search of work and meaning.
Tilda Swinton at the Cambridge Film Festival2008/09/21
On Saturday September 20 noted actor Tilda Swinton came to Cambridge for the screening of JULIA, one of several films in this year's Festival with which she is associated.

In this first extract from the Q&A session which followed the screening Tilda talks about JULIA and about the state of independent cinema in the UK.
EDEN: Q&A with Aidan Kelley2008/09/19
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Set in a thriving town in the midlands of Ireland, EDEN tells the story of a week in the lives of Billy and Breda Farrell as they approach their 10th wedding anniversary. Breda is determined that the milestone will re-ignite the passion in their marriage. Billy’s got other plans. He’s become infatuated with the unobtainable Imelda Egan and has convinced himself that they will be lovers by the weekend.

As the date draws closer, Billy's behaviour becomes more and more chaotic, while Breda's frustrations crystalise and find more mature, high-risk expression. EDEN is the screen adaptation of Eugene O'Brien's critically acclaimed, award-winning play of the same name, marking the second collaboration by director Declan Recks, Eugene O’Brien and RTÉ Television.

We were delighted that lead actor Aidan Kelley was able to be present for the screening on Friday 19 September. EDEN is screened again on Saturday 20 September.
Open for business2008/09/19
Festival Director Tony Jones introduces the 2008 Cambridge Film Festival, and namechecks Tilda Swinton, Peter Greenaway, Werner Herzog, Neil Brand and of course Emily Boldy.

Followed by Walter Salles' introduction to his film LINHA DE PASSE.

For more film festival news go to www.cambridgefilmfestival.org.uk or subscribe to this podcast on iTunes - via http://bit.ly/2pfRuG
An open-air odyssey to open the Festival2008/09/16
The Festival kicked off with two open-air screenings of Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY in front of the Institute of Astronomy in Cambridge, and we were there to talk to the audience and the organisers of this extraordinary event.

Producer: Bill Thompson
Linha de Passe2008/09/10
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Our opening night film is LINHA DE PASSE.

Sao Paulo. 20 million inhabitants, 200 kilometres of traffic, 300,000 messengers on motorcycles. At the heart of one of the toughest, most chaotic cities in the world, four brothers try to reinvent themselves in different ways. With the backdrop of Brazil in a state of emergency, each one is looking for a way out…

This effort from Walter Salles (THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES) and his frequent collaborator Daniela Thomas (MIDNIGHT) is a characteristically humane and intelligent work. Steadfast in its refusal to glamourise violence and the extremity of the environment which the film’s characters are forced to inhabit, LINHA DE PASSE exudes compassion, drama and insight.
Memories of World War Two2007/07/30
Jan Gilbert chats to local filmmaker Peter Harmer about the Cambridgeshire Film Consortium's recent World War Two reminiscence project which brought together primary school children and local care home residents.
"Rock, Paper, Scissors" Interview2007/07/15
Jan Gilbert talks to April Mullen and Tim Doiron, writers-producers-directors and stars of "Rock, Paper, Scissors: The Way of the Tosser", the runaway cult hit of this year's CFF.

The Gareth and Billcast
http://www.astickadogandaboxwithsomethinginit.com/The Gareth and Billcast (and also old archive from Bill, including the podcasts made for the Cambridge Film Festival from 2006 onwards)

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Cambridge Film Festival Getting the Gang Back Together2024/02/26 To celebrate/commemorate a year since the last World Service broadcast of Digital Planet Gareth, Bill, Ghislaine, Angelica (online) and Ania are meeting up in a wine bar in central London on the evening of March 28 and we'd love to see old listeners and new friends there. Sign up on Eventbrite (search Digital Planet). And Gareth wants to tell you all about it.. Series finale, faking data vs synthetic data, and your views on photography2023/11/27 In this final episode of the series (we'll be back in the new year) Gareth and Bill muse on the ways generative AI can be used to fake experimental data, the uses of synthetic data, and we pick up the online conversation about 'computational imaging'. Computational imaging, data recovery.. and some rapid scheduled disassembly2023/11/19 In this episode we reflect on SpaceX's latest mission and OpenAI's apparent implosion, muse on the nature of photography in an age of computational imaging, and discuss how the Super Pressure Balloon Imaging Telescope managed to get its data safely back to earth using Raspberry Pi computers. eLORAN and GNSS, and the potential tricksiness of GPT-42023/11/12 In this episode Gareth eulogises the radio-based LORAN navigation system, and Bill wonders if GPT-4 is pulling a fast one. Or not. With an accelerated sketch and quite a lot of self-referential wittering. Network security in cafes and pubs, and AI safety2023/11/05 In this episode Gareth picks up on a survey showing british people worry about wifi security in pubs - but is it just lazy marketing of VPNs? And our take on the UK AI Safety Summit. Plus more input from our esteemed listeners! Can You Fix It? Only if they let you...2023/10/29 In this episode we discuss cars,tractors, smartphone and laptops, and why the right to repair the stuff you own matters, practically and philosophically. We find time to read out some comments from listeners, while the Gazmotron continues to wreak havoc. Darker Skies and Pulsating Lights2023/10/22 Info (Show/Hide) This week, once you're through the 'sketch', Gareth discusses a novel approach to countering light pollution by making LEDs flicker 150 times per second, and Bill looks forward to this year's Lumiere festival in Durham, England which will feature Rafael Lozano-Hemmer's Pulse Topology and brings back memories of the Venice Biennale in 2007 (the photo is Gareth and Colin interviewing Rafael) Will Robots Think? And Who Needs Pictures?2023/10/16 Info (Show/Hide) This week Bill reflects on the progress made using transformer networks to integrate language and visual processing with robotic control, particularly in Google DeepMinds RT-2, and whether we're heading for embodied awareness, while Gareth speaks out for the special place well-crafted audio has in the cultural landscape - who needs pictures? And we go purple about the Vesuvius Challenge. (Image of cocktail making robots taken at the Barbican 'AI: More than Human' exhibition in 2019. The Negroni was acceptable.) Back again.. in one state or another2023/10/08 In this first episide of our second series, Gareth and Bill look at the progress being made in quantum computing, developing systems that use the properties of entangled 'qbits' instead of binary bits to carry out calculations. How can we be quantum-ready? Gareth explores an abandoned radar station2023/10/04 Gareth found a fascinating site on his recent holiday in Lefkada, and you get to hear about it because he couldn't resist recording his impressions. Gareth went to Krakow and had some thoughts...2023/07/05 As we move into summer, Gareth has been thinking about the how we experirence art and nature of our auditory experience, following a conference he attended in Krakow. Are you there yet, Gareth?2023/06/14 This week Bill is thinking out loud about libraries, having just spoken at a conference of librarians. It's all about liminal spaces, apparently. Are you there Gareth?2023/06/09 Just to keep the interwebs alert to our presence, here's a few minutes of Bill talking about Apple's Vision Pro, Metaphysics in the Metaverse, and AI Regulation. Finding Yourself, and AI Phenomenology2023/05/30 Info (Show/Hide) In this final episode of our first series, Gareth and Bill look at interesting research using satellite signals to geolocate, as an alternative to GPS. And Bill muses on his current thinking on the state of AI, and in particular why LLMs don't play language games and can't be part of the community of language users, since they don't have an inner life. (References the book Metaphysical Animals) The Gareth and BillCast will return in a few weeks. Twitter Trauma and Tell-tale Phones2023/05/22 Gareth and Bill are back, talking about the legal case against Twitter/XCorp from former employees, and the wider issue of how we create good online spaces. And we consider the dangers created when law enforcement agencies auction of seized phones without wiping them. Plus a short meditation on an alternative history and some comments from listeners. Dangerous Stunts and Password-free Living2023/05/15 In this week's episode Gareth and Bill speculuate about what makes someone crash a plane for YouTube likes and discuss passkeys, a way to replace passwords that should be simpler and more secure - eventually. Plus a pointless sketch and some delighful comments from listeners. (And Gowri - you can find Dan Goodin's articles on Passkeys in Ars Technica) Hot Secrets and AI Endgames2023/05/09 Bill and Gareth talk about new research using thermal cameras to crack passwords, and the old tired tropes about superintelligent AI taking over the world, and why Bill's had enough of it all. Plus comments from listeners and the inevitable opening sketch. Icy Moons and the Early Web2023/05/01 In this episode Gareth and Bill look at the way the JUICE mission to Jupiter will look for signs of life using a magnetometer, Bill reflects on the early days of the Web and draws parallels to the growth of generative AI - and we reflect on the environmental damage caused by SpaceX's recent launch. And there are listener comments and a (briefer) sketch. Thin chips and recycled cobalt2023/04/24 In this episode, Bill looks at Apple's plans to use only recycled cobalt in iPhone batteries, and the wider context of recovering and recycling metals for use in consumer electronics and batteries. Gareth has found another use for graphene, but this one seems like it might actually make it into widespread use. And we discuss rapid unscheduled disassemblies. The Gareth and BillCast: Stealing cars and closing the public square2023/04/17 In this episode Gareth and Bill discuss how modern cars are being stolen using electronic devices that 'spoof' the internal control networks, and bemoan the passing of many small bots because Twitter has started charging for API access. Plus some feedback from listeners, for which we are always grateful. The Gareth and BillCast: Hallucinating ML and Subverting Smart Speakers2023/04/10 In this first episode Gareth and Bill talk about why they're starting a podcast, explore the world of generative AI and why the machines keep making stuff up, and worry about how easy it is to get your smart speakers to do things without asking you first. Plus some banter and chat. Coming soon: the Gareth and Billcast2023/04/09 After years of talking tech, Gareth Mitchell and Bill Thompson just can't seem to break the habit... first episode published Monday April 10. June 11- #AudioMo - Don't Panic2021/06/11 A reflection on why twenty years of live radio helps when you're managing an online presentation. With added mic noise June 10 - #AudioMo - listening to the world2021/06/10 A more contemplative time at the end of a busy day June 09 - #AudioMo - At the Theatre2021/06/09 Another first - back at the theatre. And this time to see my son perform June 08 - #AudioMo - Back in the studio2021/06/08 my first time in the radio studio with Gareth since December June 07 - #AudioMo - Following Sophie Calle2021/06/07 A radio programme and a photo memory, and the usefulness of synchronicity. (Image shows artist Sophie Calle outside the French Pavilion at the 2007 Venice Biennale) June 06 - #AudioMo - The Comfort of Radio2021/06/06 I've always listened to the radio. It's become more important in these pandemical times. June 05 - #AudioMo - A Grand Day Out2021/06/05 On a hot saturday, I sat in a cool dark room with one shiny wall. It was splendid. June 04 - #AudioMo - Making Digital Planet2021/06/04 We've been making Digital Planet (Go Digital / Click) for twenty years, but do it differently now June 03 - #AudioMo - Cycling home from the pub2021/06/03 cycled to a pub. I ate and drank and talked and we were wonderfully indiscreet. And it was special because it was with people I like but who are not precious to me. And for the last year I have carefully preserved my in person time for those I love. Felt good June 2 - #AudioMo - The View from a Desk2021/06/02 Day two, and I'm wondering how to work productively June 01 - #AudioMo - The View from the Window2021/06/01 It's the first of June. Let's see how long I last... June 30 - #AudioMo - Reflections on Audio Blogging2020/06/30 It's June 30 and the last day of #AudioMo, so I thought I'd talk about the process and the people and the joys of random chat. June 29 - #AudioMo - The Ways We Talk2020/06/29 For the penulimate day of #AudioMo, June 29, I'm thinking about how language shapes thought, and how the words we use and the metaphors we choose can affect the ways we engage with others, especially when it comes to military metaphors. June 28 - #AudioMo - The Joy of Email2020/06/28 Info (Show/Hide) June 28, Sunday #AudioMo is a shoutout to the people who keep me informed about the world. You might find them interesting too… Dan Hon: @hondanhon https://danhon.substack.com/ Ira Bolychevsky: @shevski https://redecentralize.org/ Azeem Azhar: @azeem https://www.exponentialview.co/ Christian Payne: @documentally http://documentally.com/ David Finnigan: @davidfinig https://davidfinnigan.substack.com/ June 27 - #AudioMo - Becoming an Audience2020/06/27 June 27, and today's #AudioMo finds me missing that peculiar state of being together that we call 'an audience' and worrying about the future of live venues here in the UK. June 26 - #AudioMo - Reflecting privilege2020/06/26 It's June 26 and the final stretch for #AudioMo, where I am reflecting on how I tell the story of my life, and what I don't say in the process. June 25 - #AudioMo - How to Ignore a Crisis2020/06/25 Ninety days on a boat and in my #AudioMo for June 25 I reflect on how good we are at ignoring the enormity of what's going on. With added cat sounds. June 24 - #AudioMo - Making a video2020/06/24 Wednesday June 24 and another #AudioMo, this time about filming, and being a councillor. June 23 - #AudioMo - Plague, Inc.2020/06/23 My #AudioMo for June 23 is something I wrote in 2017, about a group of young people playing Plague, Inc. and what I thought about it at the time. June 22 - #AudioMo - Letters and Poems2020/06/22 My #AudioMo for June 22, and I'm looking at pieces of paper and reflecting on what they mean, with memories of those distant and lost. More about Beatie Wolfe https://beatiewolfe.com/ June 21 - #AudioMo - Remembering Hugh Mellor2020/06/21 June 21, and my #AudioMo tonight is a remembrance of Hugh Mellor, the philosopher and a former teacher of mine, who died today. With passing boats. June 20 - #AudioMo - Riverside Tales2020/06/20 A solstice day on the river and the riverbank, involving turning boats, ducks, and the way joy pushes out despair Erland Cooper's A Nightingale Sings Outside Our Window is here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIGcK0X2vf4 June 19 - #AudioMo- The VIew From Elsewhere2020/06/19 On June 19, as we head towards the solstice, my #AudioMo is a reflection on the week, and lockdown, and the importance of understanding how the pandemic is experienced elsewhere. June 18 - #AudioMo - Whereof One Cannot Speak2020/06/18 It's June 18 but I have little to say for today's #AudioMo. I'll read Cheryl Misak's Frank Ramsay biography instead June 17 - #AudioMo - Time to Pay2020/06/17 For my #AudioMo for June 17 I've disinterred a fairly random note from over a year ago about time travel and jewel thefts. It came from a time when I travelled on trains. June 16 - #AudioMo - Bloomsday and Holidays2020/06/16 In my #AudioMo for June 16 I'm reflecting on #Bloomsday and the summer to come, and wondering what will happen to holidays and travel in 2020 - and what this means for those of us who are used to the summer being a slow time in the office. June 15- #AudioMo - Made With Intent2020/06/15 It's June 15 and a change of topic for me in #AudioMo - away from space, and into time as I reflect on the small object that sits on my desk and keeps me company as I write. June 14 - #AudioMo - Being there2020/06/14 Heading into #AudioMo for June 14 and I'm picking up on the extended conversation about presence and space in our blended world, with @katesparkle to @Omaniblog @willsh & @diva_diplomatic - but this time from the beach June 12 - #AudioMo - Reclaiming Public Space2020/06/13 In my #AudioMo for June 13 I reflect on the ways we can reconfigure public space as we adapt to Covid-19, and how we need those who own private space to adapt. June 12 - #AudioMo - No More Commuting2020/06/12 My AudioMo contribution for June 12 is a reflection on commuting - or its absence. And a realisation that it'll never go back to the way it was before. June 11 - #AudioMo - Toppling Networks2020/06/11 My #AudioMo post for June 11 is a meditation on how hard it can seem to change systems. June 10 - #AudioMo - Ecological Debt2020/06/10 Here's my #AudioMo for June 10. I wrote a thing and recorded it for @marcusromer's ShedX and so I'm playing the first part of it here and you can listen to the rest via Marcus The text http://www.astickadogandaboxwithsomethinginit.com/paying-off-our-ecological-debt/ The ShedX version https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BRnUrirIO0 June 9 - AudioMo - Why Context Matters2020/06/09 Day 9 of #AudioMo and I've been on air for @digitalplanet - and I'm reflecting on the importance of context and location, and how to make a space feel different when we many of us are spending so much time in one location. June 8 - AudioMo - On Reflection2020/06/08 On Day 8 of #AudioMo things are a bit pressured as it's a long work day, but I have the Reflection app to keep me calm, with generative ambient music and imagery courtesy of Peter Chilvers and Brian Eno. Stay safe. June 7 - AudioMo - Working Through the Lockdown2020/06/07 The weft of our daily lives has been unwound for many of us since SARS-COV-2 found its human hosts. Do we take this opportunity to rethink the warp, too, or are we content to weave the fabric on the same pattern. June 6 - AudioMo - Reading Frank Ramsay2020/06/06 For today's #AudioMo I'm reflecting on a new book I'm reading, Cheryl Misak's life of the philosopher Frank Ramsay, and why deep reading matters in these turbulent times. AudioMo - June 5 - A public centric internet2020/06/05 Day Five of #AudioMo, back on the boat. Another day, another recording, this one is less good quality audio but I hope the ideas are sound as I reflect on the nature of the network we all rely on. June 4 - AudioMo - Coffee on Mill Road2020/06/04 Day Four of #AudioMo and I'm outside Relevant Record Cafe on Mill Road with a coffee and a sandwich talking about masks and plugging the new book @GearsForQueers which you should read! June 3 - AudioMo - Social Capital2020/06/03 Day three of #AudioMo and I'm reflecting on the difficulties facing people at the start of their careers in a 'socially distanced' world. #AudioMo - remembering the Pixel Palace2020/06/02 Today's #AudioMo recording finds me on the roof of a boat thinking about cinema and remembering the Pixel Palace at Tyneside Cinema in 2008. As I was recording this Mark Cosgrove (@msc45) was posting his excellent meditation on the same topic - so listen to me, read him, and rethink cinema https://www.the-bigger-picture.com/articles/transformative-impact-of-arts/ June 1: Watering the garden2020/06/01 It's early morning and I'm watering the garden and squashing cans Just before #AudioMo2020/05/31 #AudioMo is a month long audio challenge created by @ernmander that takes part in June. Record an audio a day, tweet the link using #AudioMo. I'm in Councillor Katie Thornburrow Statement on Accordia Development2019/03/06 This is a recording of Katie's planned remarks relating to the planning application Virtual Reality and Real Relationships2017/09/25 At the closing party for the 2017 Encounters Film Festival in Bristol, Catherine Allen and Bill Thompson discuss Second Date, Nairobi Berries and Blind Vaysha, all screened as part of the Immersive Encounters strand. Daily Preview Podcast - 21/9/102010/09/21 A look ahead at the evening's festivities here at the Cambridge Film Festival Daily Preview - 20/9/102010/09/20 A preview of all the goings on today the Cambridge Film Festival Breaking News Update2010/09/20 A pair of breaking news items ahead of the main Daily Podcast later on today. Daily Preview - 19/9/102010/09/19 A preview of all the day's events for the 4th day of the Festival, Sunday 19th September. Daily Preview 18/9/102010/09/18 A look ahead to all the happenings of the Cambridge Film Festival on Saturday 18th September. Daily Preview 17/9/102010/09/17 A podcast previewing all the films at the Cambridge Film Festival for the evening of the 17th of September. Daily Preview 16/9/102010/09/16 A preview of the first day of the 30th Cambridge Film Festival Closing weekend highlights2009/09/26 Highlights of the final weekend and the festival Second Chance Screenings in the Cambridge Drama Centre2009/09/24 We're pleased to announce that a number of Festival films will be screened at an extra Festival venue over the next two days - the Cambridge Drama Centre on Covent Garden (the one off Mill Road in Cambridge) Science on screen special2009/09/24 The Cambridge film festival presents a special science on screen audio report. Berlin Films Collection Q&A2009/09/23 The Q&A from the Berlin Films collection at the Cambridge Film Festival. Features the director of 'The Last Wash' - Ville Jankeri Creation Q&A2009/09/23 The question and answer session from the film Creation. 23 September Podcast2009/09/23 An outline of todays events and screenings. 22 September podcast2009/09/22 Listings for this evening's programme at the arts picturehouse, Cambridge. The Calling2009/09/21 A review of the film The Calling with highlights from the Q&A. The First Day of the Rest of Your Life2009/09/21 A review and highlights of the Q&A from the film 'The First Day of the Rest of Your Life'. September 21 Preview Podcast2009/09/21 A special look ahead at what's going on at the Festival on September 21 A Secret Message2009/09/19 A preview podcast for September 19... or is it? September 19 preview2009/09/19 A preview of all the sights and sounds for the Festival for September 19 brought to you in an audio report. Army of Crime Q&A Highlights2009/09/18 Highlights of the exclusive Q&A session with THE ARMY OF CRIME director Robert Guidiguian. September 18 Preview2009/09/18 A preview of all the big goings-on for the second day of the 2009 Cambridge Film Festival. Tony Jones introduces Cambridge Film Festival2009/09/17 Festival director Tony Jones kicks off the 29th Cambridge Film Festival and introduces ARMY OF CRIME director Robert Guediguian. CFF Live! - opening night2009/09/17 It's the opening night of the 29th Cambridge Film Festival and this podcast will tell you about some of the highlights and preview tomorrow's screenings. CFF09 Preview Podcast2009/08/27 The 29th Festival is fast approaching and Matt, our online intern for this year's Festival, is here to bring you a special taster podcast so you know what to expect from the Festival this year. Sunday 28th September-Finale2008/09/28 Lindsay Brand, Lucy Newman and Max Thompson brave the festival bar to gather some final thoughts and feelings from the 28th Cambridge film festival. Please be away that the following podcast may contain some moderate language. Machinima - 'Play's the thing'2008/09/28 Lindsay Brand and Alex Fraiser explore the Machinima talks from the cambridge film festival, focusing particularly on game-based machinima from the 'Play's the thing' discussion. Import/Export Q&A with Ulrich Seidl 2008/09/25 Info (Show/Hide) We were delighted to welcome director Ulrich Seidl to the screening of Import/Export after which he took part in a Q&A. Both confrontational and compassionate, Seidl’s tale of migration and social borders weaves its way through contemporary Europe as it interrogates the political, cultural and economic forces which shape life here. Moving in diametrically opposed directions, the ﬁlm traces two of its citizens’ peripatetic journeys toward a better life: nurse Olga leaves the poverty of the Ukraine for a new start in Austria, while unemployed Austrian Paul heads to the Ukraine in search of work and meaning. Tilda Swinton at the Cambridge Film Festival2008/09/21 On Saturday September 20 noted actor Tilda Swinton came to Cambridge for the screening of JULIA, one of several films in this year's Festival with which she is associated. In this first extract from the Q&A session which followed the screening Tilda talks about JULIA and about the state of independent cinema in the UK. EDEN: Q&A with Aidan Kelley2008/09/19 Info (Show/Hide) Set in a thriving town in the midlands of Ireland, EDEN tells the story of a week in the lives of Billy and Breda Farrell as they approach their 10th wedding anniversary. Breda is determined that the milestone will re-ignite the passion in their marriage. Billy’s got other plans. He’s become infatuated with the unobtainable Imelda Egan and has convinced himself that they will be lovers by the weekend. As the date draws closer, Billy's behaviour becomes more and more chaotic, while Breda's frustrations crystalise and find more mature, high-risk expression. EDEN is the screen adaptation of Eugene O'Brien's critically acclaimed, award-winning play of the same name, marking the second collaboration by director Declan Recks, Eugene O’Brien and RTÉ Television. We were delighted that lead actor Aidan Kelley was able to be present for the screening on Friday 19 September. EDEN is screened again on Saturday 20 September. Open for business2008/09/19 Festival Director Tony Jones introduces the 2008 Cambridge Film Festival, and namechecks Tilda Swinton, Peter Greenaway, Werner Herzog, Neil Brand and of course Emily Boldy. Followed by Walter Salles' introduction to his film LINHA DE PASSE. For more film festival news go to www.cambridgefilmfestival.org.uk or subscribe to this podcast on iTunes - via http://bit.ly/2pfRuG An open-air odyssey to open the Festival2008/09/16 The Festival kicked off with two open-air screenings of Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY in front of the Institute of Astronomy in Cambridge, and we were there to talk to the audience and the organisers of this extraordinary event. Producer: Bill Thompson Linha de Passe2008/09/10 Info (Show/Hide) Our opening night film is LINHA DE PASSE. Sao Paulo. 20 million inhabitants, 200 kilometres of traffic, 300,000 messengers on motorcycles. At the heart of one of the toughest, most chaotic cities in the world, four brothers try to reinvent themselves in different ways. With the backdrop of Brazil in a state of emergency, each one is looking for a way out… This effort from Walter Salles (THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES) and his frequent collaborator Daniela Thomas (MIDNIGHT) is a characteristically humane and intelligent work. Steadfast in its refusal to glamourise violence and the extremity of the environment which the film’s characters are forced to inhabit, LINHA DE PASSE exudes compassion, drama and insight. Memories of World War Two2007/07/30 Jan Gilbert chats to local filmmaker Peter Harmer about the Cambridgeshire Film Consortium's recent World War Two reminiscence project which brought together primary school children and local care home residents. "Rock, Paper, Scissors" Interview2007/07/15 Jan Gilbert talks to April Mullen and Tim Doiron, writers-producers-directors and stars of "Rock, Paper, Scissors: The Way of the Tosser", the runaway cult hit of this year's CFF. The Gareth and Billcast http://www.astickadogandaboxwithsomethinginit.com/The Gareth and Billcast (and also old archive from Bill, including the podcasts made for the Cambridge Film Festival from 2006 onwards)

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