The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Comedy is back—and it’s hitting hard. In this episode, Geoffrey is joined by returning guest and screenwriter Reece Taylor to break down the wild, absurd brilliance of the new Naked Gun reboot. From slapstick to self-aware parody, they explore why this style of comedy matters now more than ever, and how the film nails both structure and chaos in a way that keeps you laughing well past the credits.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why comedy thrives in tough timesHow the new Naked Gun reboot revives Zucker-style humorPam Anderson’s unexpected comedy chopsWhy structure doesn’t matter when the laughs hitWhat today’s filmmakers can learn from absurdismKey Moments:00:26 – Why Geoffrey needed this film01:15 – Is this classic comedy style dead?04:30 – Visual gags, deadpan delivery, and coffee bits09:18 – The Frosty the Snowman horror short (?!?)21:08 – Shame-eating and the bodycam Busta Rhymes sceneAbout the Guest:Reece Taylor is a screenwriter, film reviewer, and longtime friend of the show. With a near-completed MFA and sharp industry insight, he brings a passion for storytelling and a love of comedy to every discussion.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Palm Springs (2020) directed by Akiva SchafferRepossessed, High Spirits, and other parody classicsThe Naked Gun reboot (2025)Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodIf this episode made you laugh or rethink comedy in film like, share, and subscribe. And tell us your favorite scene from the new Naked Gun reboot in the comments!#NakedGun #FilmPodcast #ComedyIsBack #ScreenwritingTips #ParodyDoneRight🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Geoffrey D. Calhoun welcomes back friend of the show, screenwriter Katie Presto, for a no-holds-barred breakdown of the new Fantastic Four film. From emotional arcs to cosmic stakes, they cover what worked, what surprised them, and why the movie isn’t the camp-fest some critics claim it to be.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why the Thing’s character arc hits differently this timeThe subtle emotional depth behind Reed and Sue’s relationshipHow world-building and set design enhance storyCasting choices that seemed risky but paid offHow the theme of “family” drives the entire filmKey Moments:00:22 – First reactions and the film’s 60s retro-futurism03:05 – Why the Thing’s arc is the emotional core06:20 – Reed and Sue’s realistic relationship struggles11:40 – The space birth scene: creative or confusing?17:14 – The film’s family theme and emotional payoff20:09 – Franklin’s powers and tragic comic book future21:08 – Is Reed neurodivergent? A subtle exploration27:02 – The director’s surprising TV backgroundAbout the Guest:Katie Presto is a screenwriter and longtime friend of the show. She brings a sharp eye and grounded insight into storytelling, structure, and character, especially in genre films. About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Fantastic Four (2025)The Guide for Every Screenwriter by Geoffrey D. CalhounMatt Shakman’s filmography (Wandavision, Succession, Game of Thrones)Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:🌐 Podcast Website📸 Instagram @screenwriterpod🎵 TikTok @screenwriterpodIf you loved this breakdown or have your own take on the new Fantastic Four, comment, share, and subscribe. Don’t forget to let us know if we missed anything in those post-credit scenes!#FantasticFour2025 #ScreenwritingPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #ComicBookMovies #MovieBreakdown🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Writer-director Paul Etheredge joins Geoffrey to discuss his chilling new horror film The Other. From dream-fueled inspiration to last-minute casting chaos, Paul shares how the film came together—and how it cleverly subverts genre expectations. Plus, a candid look at indie filmmaking challenges, practical effects, and building layered character arcs that flip audience assumptions.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How The Other was inspired by a nightmare and developed into a subversive horror filmWhat it’s like collaborating with horror legend Jeffrey ReddickWhy practical effects are still powerful—and how they pulled it off on a budgetThe unexpected casting journey and how it shaped the film’s toneAdvice for screenwriters on writing readable, producible scriptsKey Moments:00:23 – Geoffrey’s horror-fan confession and Paul’s reaction to early screenings02:10 – Working with Final Destination’s Jeffrey Reddick04:33 – The nightmare that sparked the idea for The Other06:36 – Why the film took five years to make08:30 – Commitment to practical effects and 80s influences09:43 – Building empathy for a character who first appears dangerous12:48 – Shawnee Smith’s accidental casting and standout performance13:54 – The climax rewrite done during the shoot16:14 – Paul’s blunt advice for screenwriters17:12 – Getting a Hallmark actress to go dark for horrorAbout the Guest:Paul Etheredge is a writer-director known for the cult LGBTQ+ slasher Hellbent and now The Other, a psychological horror film praised for its genre-defying twists. He’s a longtime collaborator with Jeffrey Reddick and brings a wealth of indie filmmaking experience and insight.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:The Other – Available now on Amazon, Apple TV, Roku, and other VOD platformsFangoria Magazine – Featuring The Other on the coverConnect with the Guest:Watch The Other on AmazonPaul Etheredge on IMDbConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodIf you loved this deep dive into horror filmmaking, be sure to rate, follow, and share the episode. Got a favorite horror twist in film? Let us know in the comments!#HorrorFilm #IndieFilmmaking #ScreenwritingTips #TheOtherMovie #SuccessfulScreenwriterPodcast🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this raw and unfiltered episode, Geoffrey is joined by screenwriter Victoria Male for a bold and heartfelt analysis of James Gunn’s new Superman film. Despite some serious technical difficulties (mic issues) behind the scenes, the conversation soars as the duo dives deep into the film’s subtext, emotional resonance, and what makes this fresh take on the Man of Steel so uniquely effective. From reflections on Gunn’s personal journey to a breakdown of Lex Luthor’s modern menace, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and plenty of laughs.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How James Gunn infuses personal subtext into blockbuster storytellingWhy the film succeeds with Subversion, Subtext, and StakesThe difference between Snyder’s Superman and Gunn’s hopeful heroHow to write a “personal” script that isn’t autobiographicalWhat screenwriters can learn from the supporting cast and character arcsKey Moments:2:00 – Victoria’s Superman fandom and meeting David Corenswet9:00 – Geoffrey explains the Three S's: Subversion, Subtext, Stakes18:00 – How Gunn redefined Eve Tessmacher and made her matter26:00 – The Justice Gang as a deconstructed Batman33:00 – Lex Luthor’s narcissism, envy, and modern political echoes43:00 – Reimagining Superman’s parents and generational trauma47:00 – The algorithm vs. hope in film criticismAbout the Guest:Victoria Male is a rising screenwriter whose work has earned recognition at the highest level, including placing as a semifinalist in the Academy Nicholl Fellowships. Based in Los Angeles, she spent five years developing projects under Ivan Reitman at The Montecito Picture Company, contributing to major studio films like Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Her writing spans genres from grounded sci-fi to romantic comedy and consistently champions female-driven, emotionally resonant storytelling. Victoria’s pilot Sculpted was also featured on The Love List for top unproduced romance scripts.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Smallville (TV series)The Great starring Nicholas HoultSculpted (Victoria Male’s pilot)Sucker Punch, Watchmen, Guardians of the GalaxyGeoffrey’s “Three S’s” framework: Subversion, Subtext, StakesConnect with the Guest:Website: victoriamale.comInstagram: @victoriamaleConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.comInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodIf this episode inspired or challenged you, don’t forget to like, share, and review the podcast. Hit subscribe and stay tuned for more deep dives into the craft from real working writers and filmmakers. #Superman #JamesGunn #ScreenwritingPodcast #FilmAnalysis #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #VictoriaMale #LexLuthor #ThreeSsOfStory🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey chats with director William McGregor (His Dark Materials, Lockwood & Co., Gwen) about helming Season 2 of The Buccaneers. They discuss how the show evolved in tone, finding a cinematic voice within period dramas, and William’s journey from 48 Hour Film Festivals to international prestige projects. They also dive into pitch decks, visual storytelling, and how his background in commercials shaped his dynamic approach to directing.✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to pitch a strong visual take as a TV directorWhy tone shifts matter across seasonsThe cinematic influences behind The BuccaneersHow William blends commercial and narrative directingBreaking in through the 48 Hour Film Project⏱️ Key Moments: 00:00 – Intro and welcome00:41 – Evolving tone from Season 1 to Season 201:34 – Pitching his visual take with Sofia Coppola and Joe Wright influences03:28 – Treating key scenes like stylized commercials04:50 – Reflections on Lockwood & Co. and collaboration with Joe Cornish05:41 – Directing with intent vs. using a 'oner' for show07:02 – Transitioning from indie film (Gwen) to high-end TV07:30 – Off-mic: Starting with 48 Hour Film Fests and the hustle it takes👤 About the Guest: William McGregor is an acclaimed director known for his work on His Dark Materials, Lockwood & Co., The Buccaneers, and his gothic feature debut Gwen. He began his career in the 48 Hour Film Project and brings a visually bold style shaped by both commercial and narrative work.🎙️ About the Host: With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.🔗 Resources Mentioned in the Episode:William McGregor’s film Gwen48 Hour Film ProjectFilmapalooza🌐 Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpod📢 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, share it with a fellow screenwriter, and subscribe for more insider conversations with top industry pros.#ScreenwritingPodcast #WilliamMcGregor #TheBuccaneers #Filmapalooza #IndieToIndustry🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this powerful episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey sits down with Emmy-winning writer and producer Ron Leshem, the mind behind HBO’s Euphoria and Netflix’s new breakout series Bad Boy. Ron shares the incredible 7-year journey it took to bring Euphoria to the U.S., how Hollywood gatekeepers resist originality, and the creative freedom he found working internationally. This is one of the most inspiring episodes yet — especially for writers navigating today’s cautious industry climate.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Euphoria was rejected by every major U.S. networkHow to stay obsessed with your story when the industry keeps saying noThe difference between international and Hollywood storytellingWhy now is the time to write what only you can writeHow Bad Boy evolved from a real story into a global hitKey Moments:00:00 – Ron Leshem joins the show and reflects on adapting Euphoria for HBO01:05 – The 7-year uphill battle to sell Euphoria in the U.S.06:53 – From Israeli prison journalism to the creation of Bad Boy10:45 – Revealing the real story behind the main character of Bad Boy12:01 – Ron’s unfiltered advice for writers in today’s Hollywood17:58 – Why solitude and leadership both define the modern showrunnerAbout the Guest:Ron Leshem is an Emmy-winning writer and producer best known for co-creating Euphoria. A pioneer in adapting international hits for American audiences, his new series Bad Boy is currently streaming worldwide on Netflix. Ron brings a global perspective and fearless storytelling style that sets him apart in today’s TV landscape.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Bad Boy on NetflixEuphoria on HBOConnect with the Guest:🔗 Ron Leshem on IMDb Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:🌐 The Successful Screenwriter Website📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod🎬 TikTok: @screenwriterpodLike what you hear? Follow the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow writer who needs a reminder that perseverance pays off.#ScreenwritingTips #Euphoria #BadBoyNetflix #RonLeshem #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

This is one of my lost episodes—an incredible deep-dive with writer-director Travis Malloy, known for the cult sci-fi hits Pandorum and Infinity Chamber. We explore how he went from indie shoots in Minneapolis to selling a film in Hollywood, building sets in his garage, and writing stories that studios actually wanted. Travis shares the gritty truth behind low-budget filmmaking, working without a script, and learning to trust his artistic gut. This one’s packed with hard-earned lessons every screenwriter and indie filmmaker should hear.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Travis sold his first indie film and broke into the studio systemThe origin and evolution of Pandorum from a shelved ideaHow Infinity Chamber was made with no crew, no money—and a ton of gritThe danger of chasing trends vs. writing what lights you upWhy limitations can unlock creativity on a contained sci-fi filmKey Moments:(01:01) From Minneapolis to Hollywood: Travis’s breakout moment(04:08) Turning a failed script into Pandorum(09:04) Building Infinity Chamber before writing it(20:26) Cutting a twist to strengthen emotional impact(35:34) Advice to indie filmmakers: stop waiting, start shootingAbout the Guest:Travis Malloy is the writer-director of Pandorum (starring Ben Foster and Dennis Quaid) and the mind behind the cult hit Infinity Chamber. With deep experience in both studio writing and garage-level indie filmmaking, Travis brings a rare and inspiring perspective to the craft.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Pandorum (2009)Infinity Chamber (2016) Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodLike what you heard? Share the show with a fellow filmmaker, leave a review, and follow for more behind-the-scenes insight into screenwriting and indie filmmaking.#TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #TravisMalloy #Pandorum #InfinityChamber #IndieFilm #SciFiFilmmaking #ScreenwritingPodcast #DIYFilmmaking #GeoffreyDCalhoun🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Geoffrey sits down with the creative team behind the Slamdance hit Race Walkers: a fresh, hilarious sports comedy about the underdog world of race walking. Directors Kevin Claydon and Phil Moniz, writer-producer Evan Landry, and actor-writers Kevin and Phil share how the film came to life, how Robbie Amell joined the cast, and why comedy in indie film is making a comeback. It’s an inspiring deep dive into how tight scripts, tight friendships, and bold concepts can create magic on screen.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to build a film concept from the ground up with friendsWhy sports comedies are ready for a resurgenceThe value of staying within your budget and scope as a filmmakerHow Robbie Amell helped fast-track Race WalkersTips for keeping authenticity when satirizing niche sportsKey Moments:(01:06) How the Race Walkers team formed and the concept came to life(03:40) Why race walking was a perfect, untapped sports comedy concept(05:10) How Robbie Amell and Collective Pictures got involved(08:15) Plans for distribution and why comedies belong in theaters(12:00) Advice to indie screenwriters on writing within their meansAbout the Guests:Kevin Claydon and Phil Moniz are actor-directors and longtime collaborators behind Race Walkers.Evan Landry is a screenwriter and producer on the film. The trio has been creating content together since their 20s.Race Walkers stars Robbie Amell and has been gaining acclaim on the festival circuit for its sharp writing and lovable absurdity.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Race WalkersSlamdance Film FestivalRobbie Amell on IMDbConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodIf you loved this behind-the-scenes look at indie filmmaking, give us a review, share the episode, and follow the show for more insider conversations with today’s rising creatives.#RaceWalkersMovie #Slamdance2025 #IndieFilm #ScreenwritingTips #FilmmakingAdvice #ComedyComeback #GeoffreyDCalhoun #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #RobbieAmell🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this powerful episode, writer-director Evan Ari Kelman joins Geoffrey to discuss his feature debut Barron’s Cove, a gripping thriller that dives into the aftermath of a child's death and the generational trauma left behind. Evan breaks down how real-life inspiration, personal loss, and years of screenwriting study culminated in this bold indie film. From battling Catch-22 casting challenges to landing major talent like Garrett Hedlund and Steven Lang, Evan shares what it really takes to make your first feature — and why sometimes, you just have to write it yourself.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How personal experience shaped the themes of Barron’s CoveTips for breaking through with your first feature filmThe truth about casting name talent as a first-time directorScreenwriting resources and tools that made a differenceWhy submitting to the Nicholl Fellowship can still open doorsKey Moments:00:00 – Geoffrey introduces Evan Ari Kelman and Barron’s Cove00:43 – The inspiration behind the film’s dark, emotional premise05:48 – Lessons learned from developing Evan’s first feature script13:11 – How Evan cast major stars and overcame industry obstacles17:56 – Advice for new filmmakers ready to make their first feature20:04 – How being a Nicholl semifinalist led to production supportAbout the Guest:Evan Ari Kelman is a writer and director whose feature debut Barron’s Cove explores grief, justice, and the scars of generational trauma. A graduate of NYU’s film program, Evan has written and directed multiple award-winning shorts. His work blends grounded emotion with high-stakes storytelling, aiming to challenge audiences while remaining deeply personal. Barron’s Cove premieres June 6 in select theaters and on VOD.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Connect with the Guest:📸 Instagram: @EvKelm🎥 Barron’s Cove releases June 6 in select theaters and on VODConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun: 🌐 The Successful Screenwriter Podcast Website📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod🎵 TikTok: @screenwriterpodEnjoyed the episode? Like, share, and subscribe to The Successful Screenwriter! Comment your thoughts on our IG!#BarronsCove #ScreenwritingTips #IndieFilm #EvanAriKelman #FilmPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #GeoffreyDCalhoun #NichollFellowship #FilmmakingAdvice #WritingThroughTrauma🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this powerful episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with acclaimed Dominican filmmaker Jose Maria Cabral to explore his groundbreaking hybrid documentary 42nd Street. The film showcases a grassroots art and music movement born out of the Capotillo neighborhood—a community stigmatized by violence but transformed through relentless creativity and self-expression. From razor blade dances to government crackdowns, this episode dives into the story of a 24/7 street party that became a symbol of survival and resistance.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How 42nd Street captures a real-time cultural revolution in CapotilloThe power of art as survival in marginalized communitiesWhy Jose lived in Capotillo during the writing of the filmHow to approach hybrid documentaries with both realism and careJose’s advice for aspiring documentariansKey Moments:00:28 – Geoffrey welcomes Jose Maria Cabral to the podcast01:08 – The origins of the 42nd Street movement and its defiance of government control05:11 – The razor blade dance and its symbolism of survival09:49 – How creating the documentary changed Jose personally and creatively14:22 – Jose’s unique tip: filming a “research documentary” before productionAbout the Guest:Jose Maria Cabral is an award-winning Dominican filmmaker known for his bold storytelling and social commentary. His latest hybrid documentary 42nd Street has received multiple screenings at South by Southwest, highlighting a vibrant underground movement in Capotillo. Jose’s commitment to authenticity and immersive filmmaking continues to shine a light on unheard voices.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:42nd Street DocumentaryThe Guide for Every ScreenwriterConnect with the Guest:Instagram – @josemariacabralIMDb – Jose Maria CabralConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodEnjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe! Share this with a filmmaker or screenwriter who needs to hear Jose’s incredible story of art through adversity.#42ndStreetFilm #JoseMariaCabral #Capotillo #SXSW2025 #HybridDocumentary #ScreenwritingPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #GeoffreyDCalhoun #IndieFilm #DocLife #StreetArt #CreativeResistance #PartyThatNeverStops🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!