BTL Radio Show - 06/15/2026 with special guest director JAY SILVERMAN discussing YALE

Last week was all about Tribeca Film Festival and some wonderful animated short films that had their premieres there.  This week it’s all about Dances With Films, which starts this week on June 18 and runs through June 28 at the TCL Chinese Theatre complex in Hollywood.  And there are some great films for you to look forward to seeing, starting with the opening night film - the world premiere of YALE from director JAY SILVERMAN.   I love this film!  YALE is based on a true story about screenwriter Van Billet’s maternal grandfather. When he first learned about his family lore as a young teen, he couldn’t believe it was true and knew he had to write about it.    YALE is directed by Jay Silverman and written by Van Billet and stars Kevin Dunn, Caitlin McGee, Kathleen Gati, Rachael Harris, Dominic Leeder, Nene Nwoko, and Benjamin Mackey.   Abandoned by her beloved father, Yale Parker, when she was nine, Mackenzie (MAC) Mitchell’s adult life has been consumed with alcohol and run-ins with the law, causing a deep rift with her son, Ryan, 12. When Ryan needs an emergency kidney transplant, his only chance at survival might be the last person Mac wants to ask for help — her father, whom she hasn’t seen for thirty years. Their reunion is complicated when Yale reveals a jaw-dropping secret that he has eight other families that he kept hidden from her all her life…and one of them might be a match to save her son. As this odd couple set off on an epic road trip to track down her half-siblings, an unexpected bond begins to form between them, ultimately both learning that ‘genes’ run deep.   I spoke with director JAY SILVERMAN the other day about YALE.  This is our fourth interview together chatting about his films.  He is always a joy and is so generous of spirit.  And he loves storytelling and making movies. I will always have time for Jay and his films.   Setting YALE head and shoulders above the crowd starts with Kevin Dunn, who plays Yale Parker.  When was the last time you got to see Kevin Dunn - a cinematic and television institution - with a leading role where he got to showcase drama, comedy, and lots and lots of heart?  Beyond the heartfelt script, Kevin is one of the main reasons that make Yale so special.   As you’re about to hear in this exclusive interview with Jay, and forgive the roundaboutness of our conversation as we kind of hit everything backwards and sideways, we cover all the aspects and elements of YALE.  We start by chatting about Kathleen Gati, who plays Bunny, an ex-stripper and current wife of Yale.  Being a die-hard Kathleen Gati fan thanks to her years on “General Hospital”, knowing that she was in the cast was one of the reasons I was excited for YALE, as I know what she brings to the table.  And for all you GH fans and Kathleen Gati fans, do not look to see Mutter, aka Dr. Liesl Obrecht, anywhere in Bunny.  This is another side to Kathleen’s talents that she delights us with as she brings her unique qualities to YALE, including her versatility and comedic talent.  And I’ll be honest with you.  Normally, I don’t excise any part of my conversations with talent unless it’s something off the record or very personal and not to be shared, but I did trim this interview and cut out about 7 minutes of Jay and me discussing “General Hospital.”  Seriously.   As we dove into YALE, Jay shared insights into the casting process, noting that both Kathleen and Rachael Harris (another winner in my book who I will see in anything), though in smaller roles, are crucial to the film's impact. As we moved into discussion on Kevin Dunn, who plays Yale Parker (also known as Hymie Hymowitz), Jay explained that the story, written by Van Billet, attracted Kevin because of its complexity and blend of comedy and drama, rooted in real-life experiences. We also discussed the challenge and reward of working with child actors, specifically Benjamin Mackey, who plays Ryan, and how his authentic, non-precocious performance adds depth to the film.   The casting process was further detailed, with Jay explaining how Kevin was cast only two months before filming, and how the chemistry between the actors led to the addition of new scenes.  And how about Caitlin McGee as Yale’s daughter Mac?   The dynamic between Kevin and Caitlin McGee is fantastic.  It is the father-daughter relationship you didn’t know you needed!  And then there’s the comedic chemistry between Nene Nwoko as Dr. Ekubo and Kevin, which just soars.  And of course, Dominic Leeder as Ryan’s father and Mac’s ex-husband Josh, does plenty of emotional heavy-lifting and has some very touching scenes with Benjamin Mackey.  Jay emphasizes the organic approach to diversity in the overall casting and the importance of genuine on-screen relationships.   When it comes to the technical aspects of the film, Jay is once again working with cinematograp