The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun (Instagram @Screenwriterpod)Guest Host: Reece TaylorSpecial Guest: Filmmaker Justin Mane"Crow" Fan Film: https://www.youtube.com/@CROWfanfilmIntroduction:Welcome to another episode of our podcast, where we dive deep into the world of indie filmmaking and storytelling. In this episode, we're honored to have filmmaker Justin Mane discuss his feature-length fan film inspired by "The Crow." Joined by reoccurring guest host Reece Taylor, we explore the journey, challenges, and triumphs of independent cinema. This special installment sheds light on the passion and creativity thriving within the Michigan film community.Key Insights:Justin Mane shares his decade-long journey in filmmaking, highlighting his transition from acting to creating a standout indie film in Michigan.Notable Quote: Justin reflects, "It's about showcasing Michigan filmmakers on a broader scale and what we can actually do if given the right material and the right opportunities."The conversation reveals the intricate process of evolving a 15-minute short into a full-length feature, emphasizing pre-production planning and post-production creativity.Actionable Advice:For aspiring screenwriters and filmmakers, Justin emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration. He advises building a supportive network and continuously honing your craft through hands-on experience on sets.He also highlights the significance of pre-production and meticulous planning in bringing a vision to life.Episode Highlights:The episode delves into the visual storytelling and character-driven narrative of Justin's film, praising its artistic direction and emotional depth.Memorable moments include the discussion on the unique challenges of indie filmmaking, from budget constraints to the creative solutions that emerge.Resources Mentioned:"Crow" - The film discussed throughout the episode, available on YouTube.Books, articles, and websites on indie filmmaking techniques and storytelling were mentioned as resources for listeners aiming to deepen their understanding of cinema.Call to Action:We encourage our listeners to support independent filmmakers by watching "Crow" on YouTube and sharing their thoughts.Visit thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for additional resources, and consider signing up for exclusive content that dives deeper into the craft of screenwriting and filmmaking.Follow us on Instagram @screenwriterpod to stay updated on upcoming episodes, events, and webinars.Closing Remarks:Thank you to Justin Mane and Reece Taylor for an enlightening conversation, and a special thanks to our listeners for tuning in. We're excited about the future of indie filmmaking in Michigan and beyond. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll explore another facet of the screenwriting and filmmaking world.🎬 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!

***If you've been affected by online romance scams, or if you're seeking resources and support to navigate the complexities of digital deception, visit CatchTheCatfish.com.Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun(Instagram @screenwriterpod)Guest: Andre Moreau, Emmy Award-Winning Journalist and Content Creator(instagram @amoreaunow)Episode Overview:In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of social media, its impact on personal identity, and the rise of online scams, through the experiences of Emmy award-winning journalist Andre Moreau. Andre shares his journey from a traditional news journalist to becoming an unintended icon in romance scams, revealing the darker sides of social media platforms and the urgent need for regulation and awareness.Key Topics Covered:Transition to Digital Journalism: Andre discusses the evolution of news reporting with the advent of social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, emphasizing the additional workload but also the new opportunities for engagement it provided.The Unintended Consequences of Social Media Fame: Andre's personal account of how his social media presence, grown organically, unexpectedly made him a target for identity misuse in online romance scams.The Realities of Romance Scams: A startling revelation about the extent of the problem, with Andre discovering numerous FBI and police reports of scams carried out in his name, highlighting the global challenge of digital identity theft.Raising Awareness: Andre's efforts to use his platform to educate and warn others about the dangers of catfishing, collaborating with Anna Rowe of CatchTheCatfish.com, and their work towards better regulation and prevention.Legislative Action and Personal Advocacy: Andre's ongoing efforts to involve U.S. Congress in addressing the widespread issue of online scams, emphasizing the need for technological solutions like facial recognition to prevent identity misuse.The Personal Impact of Social Media Scams: Both Geoffrey and Andre share their experiences of being impersonated online, discussing the broader cultural acceptance and implications of identity theft and catfishing.A Call for Humanity and Responsibility: The episode concludes with a discussion on the ethical responsibilities of social media platforms, the importance of real human connection, and the potential for technology to both harm and heal.Closing Thoughts:This episode sheds light on the complex interplay between technology, identity, and community in the digital age. As we navigate the vast potential and pitfalls of social media, the stories of Andre Moreau and others remind us of the need for vigilance, empathy, and collective action in protecting ourselves and others online.Listeners are encouraged to be more critical of their online interactions, support efforts for digital literacy and regulation, and share this episode to spread awareness about the consequences of unchecked social media use.🎬 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!

Host: Geoffrey D. CalhounGuest: Bo Mirhosseni, FilmmakerEpisode Overview:In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is thrilled to welcome filmmaker Bo Mirhosseni, the creative force behind the Shudder original film "History of Evil." Join us as Bo shares his journey from skate videos in Long Beach to directing music videos, commercials, and finally his leap into feature filmmaking. Dive into the origins of "History of Evil," a film that blends family drama with genre elements against the backdrop of the Iranian Revolution, showcasing a stellar cast including Paul Wesley and Jackie Cruz.TakeawaysTransitioning from one creative medium to another can lead to new opportunities and growth as a filmmaker.Combining genre elements with a personal story can create a unique and engaging film.Working within budget constraints can force filmmakers to think creatively and find innovative solutions.Drawing inspiration from real-life events and personal experiences can add depth and authenticity to a film.Building connections and leveraging personal relationships can help in casting and financing a film.The journey from script to screen can be a long and challenging process, but perseverance and collaboration can lead to success.Writing what you love and incorporating personal emotions and experiences can bring passion and authenticity to your work.Exploring the potential for future projects and franchises can open up new opportunities for filmmakers.Subscribe and Follow:Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest updates and screenwriting tips.Find me on Instagram @screenwriterpod🎬 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!

Host Geoffrey Calhoun welcomes author and retired cryptologist J.L. Hancock to the podcast. Hancock discusses his book, "The Hawk Enigma," a military techno-thriller inspired by his experiences embedded with special ops.Main Content:J.L. Hancock's Background:Hancock shares his journey from growing up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to joining the military after 9/11, motivated by a desire to use his language skills. His path led him to the Defense Language Institute and eventually into cryptology, where he specialized in electronic warfare and radio wave interception.The Craft of Cryptology:Explains the role of a cryptologist and the difference between traditional communication roles and those involved in electronic warfare. Hancock highlights the challenges and requirements of becoming a linguist in the military, emphasizing the high attrition rates and the demanding nature of the training.Life in Special Ops:Discusses the unique challenges of working with special operations, including the difficulty of balancing technical skills, physical capability, and personality to fit into these elite teams. Hancock touches on issues of introversion, imposter syndrome, and the struggle for technical specialists to be accepted in predominantly alpha-male environments.The Hawk Enigma and Character Development:Hancock talks about the main character of his book, likening him to Q from James Bond but with the added complexity of having to prove himself in the field. The conversation explores themes of identity, the perception of technical staff as "enablers" vs. "technicians," and the personal growth that comes from confronting and overcoming these challenges.Dealing with Stress and Failure:Shares insights into handling stress through exercise and maintaining a routine, highlighting the importance of baseline stress management rather than reactive measures. Hancock also discusses the emotional toll of witnessing the impact of broader strategic decisions, such as the withdrawal from Afghanistan, on individuals and communities involved in military operations.Highlights & Takeaways:Hancock's experiences underscore the complexity of military and intelligence work, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical resilience.The discussion on character development in "The Hawk Enigma" offers valuable insights for writers looking to create nuanced, realistic characters in military or techno-thriller genres.Encourages listeners to explore "The Hawk Enigma" for a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those in cryptology and special ops. Also invites aspiring writers to consider the nuanced character dynamics discussed for their own projects.Closing:Geoffrey Calhoun thanks J.L. Hancock for sharing his unique insights and experiences, providing listeners with a fascinating glimpse into the world of cryptology and the personal journeys that inform compelling storytelling.For additional commentary and to listen to the full, uncut episode, join our website and check out our character database, a resource where writers can use interviews like this for research in their own projects.Contact Information:For more insights and discussions, listeners are encouraged to subscribe to The Successful Screenwriter podcast and follow instagram @screenwriterpod for updates on future episodes.🎬 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!

Host: Geoffrey CalhounInstagram @screenwriterpodGuest: Joshua Lastine, Entertainment LawyerInstagram @LastineLawOverview: Discussing why screenwriters, especially indie screenwriters, need entertainment lawyers to navigate the complexities of contracts and protect their rights and interests.Key Highlights:The Importance of Legal Representation for Screenwriters:Joshua emphasizes the crucial need for screenwriters to have legal protection, from newcomers to seasoned professionals, to ensure all contractual details are in their favor and to avoid potential pitfalls.Common Issues Screenwriters Face Without Legal Guidance:Late or missing payments due to overlooked contract specifics.The risk of unfavorable contract terms due to not understanding the legal jargon or missing critical clauses.Why Entertainment Lawyers are Essential:They provide vital protection for non-WGA writers who lack guild support.Offer strategic advice on contract negotiations, ensuring screenwriters get fair deals and are not exploited.Cost Concerns and Solutions:Joshua addresses concerns about affordability, suggesting that building relationships with lawyers early can lead to flexible payment arrangements, such as a percentage-based fee.Misconceptions About Entertainment Lawyers as Agents:While lawyers can occasionally facilitate connections, their primary role is legal protection, not career management or promotion.Working with Agents and Managers:A collaborative approach with agents, managers, and lawyers typically yields the best outcomes for screenwriters, ensuring all aspects of deals and opportunities are optimized.Advice for Reviewing Contracts:Emphasizes the importance of ensuring contracts reflect all verbal promises and the need for clarity on payment terms and project expectations.The Pitfalls of Not Having Legal Representation:Shares cautionary tales of screenwriters trapped in unfavorable contracts or losing rights to their work due to inadequate legal protection.Legal Considerations in the Writing Process:Highlights the need for screenwriters to consult with entertainment lawyers even during the writing phase to navigate copyright issues and other legal considerations.Conclusion:Joshua Lastine underscores the indispensable role of entertainment lawyers in safeguarding screenwriters' interests, advising early and ongoing engagement with legal professionals for career success.Contact Information:Joshua Lastine can be reached through his website, lastineentertainmentlaw.com, and on Instagram @LastineLaw.Closing Thoughts by Geoffrey Calhoun:Expresses gratitude to Joshua for his insights and to the audience for tuning in, emphasizing the value of legal advice in the screenwriting journey.🎬 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!

Summary:In this conversation, Mary Scheyder interviews Geoffrey D. Calhoun, host of the Successful Screenwriter podcast, about various aspects of screenwriting. They discuss starting out in screenwriting, overrated advice for new writers, writing Geoffrey's book 'The Guide for Every Screenwriter', adapting real-life stories, rituals and routines for writing, writing the movie you want to see, the challenge of writing adaptations, and finding writer's euphoria.TakeawaysFocus on mastering the foundations of screenwriting, such as structure, before diving into other aspects like formatting.Be cautious of overrated advice, such as 'show don't tell', and focus on understanding the purpose and impact of different writing techniques.When writing adaptations, find the defining moment of the real-life story and build the script thematically around it.Develop rituals and routines that help you get into the flow state of writing, such as creating a specific writing playlist.Embrace the challenge of writing and problem-solving, as limitations and constraints can lead to more creative and satisfying results.Chapters00:00Introduction and Gratitude00:49Starting Out in Screenwriting02:26Overrated Advice for New Writers04:00Writing 'The Guide for Every Screenwriter'08:18Adapting Real Life Stories10:16Rituals and Routines for Writing14:12Writing the Movie You Want to See17:58The Challenge of Writing Adaptations21:16Finding Writer's Euphoria27:35Closing Remarks🎬 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!

SummaryStand-up comedian and author Mike Lukas discusses his journey in comedy, from breaking into the industry to developing a unique comedy lens. He emphasizes the importance of finding personal truths and topics that make you laugh, as well as understanding how to punch up in comedy. Lukas also shares insights on going blue in comedy and the need to be aware of the impact of jokes on different audiences. Overall, he encourages aspiring comedians to practice and develop their funny muscle.TakeawaysDeveloping a comedy lens is crucial for comedians to stand out and connect with audiences.Understanding the difference between punching up and punching down in comedy is important to avoid offensive or harmful jokes.Becoming funnier is a skill that can be learned and improved through practice and understanding of comedic techniques.Finding personal truths and topics that make you laugh can help shape your comedy and make it more relatable to audiences.For more discussions on screenwriting and film analysis, visit www.thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com.Check out Mike's book Finding Your Funny MuscleChapters00:00Introduction and Background01:21Breaking into Comedy03:17Discovering the Comedy Lens08:01Developing a Comedy Lens09:26Finding Your Funny Muscle22:59Going Blue in Comedy28:05Punching Up in Comedy33:52Becoming Funnier🎬 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!

*Recorded live at Slamdance for the 'Chaperone' premiere which won the Breakouts Feature Grand Jury Prize.Host: Geoffrey D. CalhounGuest: Zoe Eisenberg, Writer/Director of 'Chaperone'Episode OverviewIn this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews Zoe Eisenberg about her film 'Chaperone,' which premiered at Slamdance. They discuss the film's unique storyline, Eisenberg's inspiration from a personal experience, and the character development in the film.Key Discussion PointsInspiration Behind 'Chaperone' - How a real-life encounter led to the film's concept.Character Analysis of Misha - Exploring the protagonist's life and choices.Representation and Casting - Discussing the decision to have a diverse cast and authentic representation of Hawaii.ClosingThe episode wraps up with insights into Eisenberg's creative process and her experiences in filmmaking.For more discussions on screenwriting and film analysis, visit www.thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com.🎬 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!

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun (instagram: @screenwriterpod)Guest: Paul Chitlik, Author of "Rewrite"Introduction:Join our community at thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for access to seminars, workshops, Oscar-nominated screenplays, and writing assignments.Free resources to launch your screenwriting career.Episode Highlights:Breaking into Screenwriting:Paul Chitlik advises starting with short YouTube videos to gain notice.Importance of understanding the flow of digital platforms and building an audience.Innovative Funding and Talent Sourcing:A case study of a filmmaker who funded a film through TikTok and hired talent from the same platform.The Evolution of Technology in Screenwriting:Discussion on adapting to rapid technological changes.Geoffrey shares personal experiences with hearing aid technology, hinting at future advancements.What’s New in the Second Edition of "Rewrite":Focus on crafting shorter, faster stories without altering the essence of storytelling.Emphasis on the timeless nature of storytelling, drawing examples from ancient authors.Structuring Short-Form Content:Paul explains the adaptability of the seven-point structure to different mediums, including YouTube and TikTok.Diversity in Screenwriting Methods:Encouragement to find personal approaches to storytelling.Discussion on various screenwriting methodologies and the importance of interesting stories over rigid formats.The Essence of Successful Films:Importance of central emotional relationships in movies.Different layers of storytelling: plot, personal development, and emotional relationships.Advice for Aspiring Screenwriters:Paul stresses there's no single correct way to write a film.Importance of interesting characters and storytelling over specific methods.Rewriting Tips:Suggests distancing oneself from the script to gain a fresh perspective.Objective reading from the standpoint of an industry professional.Conclusion:Encouragement to subscribe and share the podcast.Invitation to join the community at thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for more discussions.🎬 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!

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun (Instagram: @screenwriterpod)Guest: Eric Rudnick, Writer and DirectorHighlights of the Episode:Introduction of the Guest:Eric Rudnick, the creator behind the short film "Hold You So Tight."His journey from a reality TV producer to an inspiring filmmaker.Journey of 'Hold You So Tight':The inception of the film's idea from an AI robot encounter.The casting of Charisma Carpenter and her contributions.Eric’s approach to addressing themes of loneliness and the human need for touch.Behind-the-Scenes Insights:Experiences working with Ridley Scott's company.Challenges and learnings from producing a short film independently.The transformation of a feature script into a compelling short film.The Role of AI in Storytelling:The significance of the AI robot in the narrative.Discussion on technology's impact on human interaction and mental health.Eric’s Philosophies on Filmmaking:The importance of creating content that resonates personally.Insights into the film industry and the value of short films in a filmmaker's career.The Successful Screenwriter Community:Encouraging listeners to join the community for resources and support.Highlighting the Script Summit and its impact on screenwriters.Closing Thoughts:Eric’s message to aspiring filmmakers: "Keep making stuff."Geoffrey’s take on the essence of storytelling and human connection.Make sure to:Subscribe to The Successful Screenwriter Podcast.Share this episode on social media.Visit thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for forums and more screenwriting insights.Next Episode Preview: Stay tuned for our next episode where we dive into another fascinating aspect of the screenwriting world with a special guest.Listen to the full episode to dive deep into the world of screenwriting, AI in cinema, and the human experience. Join Geoffrey and Eric for an engaging and inspiring discussion!🎬 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!