Film Professor, Former Entertainment Industry Professional, Radio and Podcast Personality and Host of "Fortunato Film School"

Joe fortunato

Welcome Film lovers!

My name is Dr. Joe Fortunato. I am a former Entertainment Industry professional and current full-time Film Professor. I am also the host and creator of the popular "Fortunato Film School" - an educational, interactive community engagement program. On this page you will see upcoming events I'm hosting, links for my social media, archives of my weekly radio segments on WAKR, and various podcasts and interviews that I've been part of!
read our mission

watch, Listen, learn, enjoy!

This is the "main event" - Fortunato Film School! Screen a classic movie with me as I do LIVE commentary, then we discuss the movie afterwards. These events are done either live locally or online via Zoom (and sometimes both!). See the Events Page for upcoming screenings! What IS Fortunato Film School? Click to learn more!
Join me for my weekly "Film School" radio segment on WAKR every Friday at 8:15 am EST. Listen live or stream the segment later on the WAKR website or my YouTube archive!

Podcasts, Lectures and Interviews

Listen to Podcasts or Interviews I've done, Including my newest guest spot as a rotating co-host on "The Serious TV Drama - The Twilight Zone" podcast!

What people Say

I have attended numerous Fortunato Film School events over the years - sometimes for movies I’ve seen dozens of times and sometimes for movies I’ve never seen before. Either way, it’s an enjoyable and educational experience. Joe is a master of film analysis with a wealth of knowledge to share!
Marianne Licht
Phoenix, Arizona
I saw Joe's Citizen Kane presentation - WOW! Totally loved it! I had seen the film several times before (and of course it was discussed when I was a film student) but I learned a TON more by listening to his commentary. Such a valuable resource! I wish that I'd had Fortunato Film School when I was in film school!
Alex Katis
Intructional Designer, Arizona State University
The (OLLI) at ASU is proud to collaborate with Joe Fortunato, whose dynamic lectures consistently captivate and inspire our members. With every session, Joe brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and an engaging teaching style that leaves a lasting impact. The feedback from our learners is nothing short of outstanding. Our students walk away not only enlightened but energized, gaining fresh perspectives and a deeper understanding of the subject at hand. If you’re looking for an enriching and thought-provoking learning experience, don’t miss the opportunity to join one of Joe’s exceptional Fortunato Film School presentations!
Jared Swerzenski
Director,Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at ASU
I have worked with Joe for a few years within the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at ASU. He is extremely easy and wonderful to work with. I love coordinating with him because he is very responsive to anything that is needed for the Fortunato Film School classes he teaches. He always is creating new and innovative classes that our members love!
Susie Rego
Program Coordinator,Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at ASU
I really enjoy the presentations from Fortunato Film School. I find Joe Fortunato’s insights both enlightening and inspiring, deepening my fascination with the art of filmmaking and enriching my understanding of filmmaking as a whole. Joe shares great insights and resources for budding to expert filmmakers, and the Fortunato Film School events are great to attend by anyone interested in the craft.
Chalysse Standifird
The Sidney Poitier New American Film School

upcoming events

December 6, 2025 | 11:00am | In Person |
Fortunato Film School - It's A Wonderful Life (1946)
Save the Date! Join us for a special presentation of Fortunato Film School - It's a Wonderful Life (1946) at Jilly's Music Room, December 6.
Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.tickpick.com/organizer/event/barstool-school-holiday-edition-with-fortunato-film-school-its-a-wonderful-life-brunch-event-29396152 Or you can check the calendar at Jilly's. https://jillysmusicroom.com/events-calendar/
For more information, click on the Events Tab. Get your tickets NOW!

quick links

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What IS Fortunato Film School?
This week's Film School segment on WAKR
December 1 &2, 2025 | 1:00 pm EST | Online | Private Event - Zoom Link required (link below)
Fortunato Film School - Casablanca
Fortunato Film School via Zoom!
Want to learn how to analyze a film? Ever wondered what all the fuss was about Casablanca? Join us for “Fortunato Film School” where ASU film professor Dr. Joe Fortunato will screen, discuss, and provide “live commentary” on this classic Oscar winning film!
This event is part of the ASU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), and is graciously allowing my guests to attend this class. So this is a rare opportunity to see Fortunato Film School LIVE online from anywhere you live!
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at ASU provides engaging, university-quality courses for adults ages 50 and better, with no tests or grades—just a passion for learning. Taught by ASU faculty and local experts, classes cover a wide range of topics including history, science, art, wellness, and more, with both in-person and online options available. Members also enjoy social events, interest groups, and volunteer opportunities within a vibrant, like-minded community. To learn more, please visit www.asuolli.org or email olli@asu.edu NOTE: The Zoom link is https://asu.zoom.us/j/86015453579 Event starts at 11:00 am MST (local Arizona time) which is 1:00 pm EST! NOTE: This is a 2 part class! Each day's session is 90 min long