Podcasts about Screenplay

The BTS team discusses the careful character design of Cher, breaks down what makes every scene feel so entertaining and takes audience questions and comments. Live from the Laemmle Glendale Theater as closing night of the Glendale International Film Festival.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hnWEqPHNKx8

In today's episode we sit down with award‑winning author Heather Snodgrass, creator of the genre‑bending novel A Love Letter to Reading. Heather blends thriller, identity, and transformation with a meticulously curated playlist that runs 99 hours long—every chapter is anchored to a song, a TV theme, or even a wrestling reference.We'll hear how the book started as a screenplay, morphed into a full‑blown novel, and why the Leon Bridges track “River” is the story's heartbeat. Heather shares her creative ritual—listening to everything from the Beatles to Taylor Swift, avoiding jazz and country, and letting lyrical storytelling guide her prose. She also reveals the quirky details that make her world unique: a pediatric oncology‑nurse‑by‑day, assassin‑by‑night protagonist named Mariana “Scorpion” Rossi; a love for Final Fantasy XIV!We'll dive into the playlists that live inside the book, discuss how music and reading evoke different emotions, and ask Heather the fun, rapid‑fire questions every fan loves—her must‑have desert‑island albums, the live act she'd book for her launch (the Beatles, of course), and the secret song that moves her soul on a deep level.Whether you're a writer seeking a soundtrack, a music lover looking for the next great novel‑playlist hybrid, or simply someone who believes “when the words fail, music speaks,” this episode has something for you. Grab your headphones, press play, and let the conversation between narrative and melody begin.

Discover how to avoid preachy storytelling while keeping your message powerful. Zena Del Lowe shares tips for letting your characters discover truths naturally, engage audiences, and drive the plot — without lecturing.

This week, we discuss Disney's bizarre update of a classic fable, Chicken Little.SPOILER ALERT We will be talking about this movie in its entirety, so if you plan on watching it, we strongly suggest you do so before listening to our takes.A Walt Disney Pictures release from Walt Disney Feature Animation. Released on November 4, 2005. Directed by Mark Dindal. Screenplay by Steve Bencich, Ron J. Friedman, and Ron Anderson, based on a story by Dindal and Mark Kennedy, and the original fable. Featuring the voices of Zach Braff, Garry Marshall, Joan Cusack, Steve Zahn, and Dan Molina. Edited by Dan Molina. Score by John Debney.

The First Deadly Sin (1980) AIP Production #8007 Jeff and Cheryl discover that murder, not pride, is The First Deadly Sin. Screenplay by Mann Rubin From the novel by Lawrence Sanders Produced by George Pappas and Mark Shanker for Filmways Pictures Directed by Brian G. Hutton Cast: Frank Sinatra as Edward X. Delaney Faye Dunaway as Barbara Delaney David Dukes as Daniel Blank James Whitmore as Dr. Ferguson Brenda Vaccaro as Monica Gilbert Martin Gabel as Christopher Langley Anthony Zerbe as Captain Broughton Hugh Hurd and Ben Johnson Anna Navarro as Sunny Jordeen Victor Arnold as Officer Kendall George Coe as Dr. Bernardi Joe Spinell as Charles Lipsky Jeffrey DeMunn as Sergeant Correlli Reuben Green as Bill Garvin Eddie Jones as Officer Curdy An Artanis-Cinema VII Production A Filmways Release View the The First Deadly Sin TV spot here. You can rent The First Deadly Sin on Apple TV+.Visit our website - https://aippod.com/ and follow the American International Podcast on Letterboxd, Instagram and Threads @aip_pod and on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericanInternationalPodcast  Get your American International Podcast merchandise at our store. Our open and close includes clips from the following films/trailers: How to Make a Monster (1958), The Brain That Wouldn't Die (1962), I Was a Teenage Werewolf (1957), High School Hellcats (1958), Beach Blanket Bingo (1965), The Wild Angels (1966), It Conquered the World (1956), The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971), and Female Jungle (1955) 

Elliott Hasler wrote, directed, and filmed "Vindication Swim," the story of Mercedes Gleitz, the first British woman to swim the English Channel. He also wrote and directed "WWII: The Long Road Home," which opened in the USA and the UK, and for which Elliott was praised as "perhaps the next Spielberg." "Vindication Swim" opened in select theaters October 17. We talk about filming the movie, swimming, inspiration, having the confidence to spend a year making a film, being self-taught, writing, the challenge of shooting at sea, boats, cameras, jellyfish, sharks, and more. Links are on the podcast shownotes page Support the show through Patreon 

We cover new MovieWise, old Lessons from the Screenplay, and review a flick as well.Engage!

The legendary book "Star Wars: The Annotated Screenplays" features the complete shooting scripts for all three of the Original Trilogy films, along with notations revealing information about how each scene evolved throughout George Lucas's writing process, from the rough draft to the final revised fourth script. The book also included new interview quotes from Lucas and other key creatives, pulling the curtain back even further. Join us for this special RFR Q&A discussion, previously only available to members of the RFR Patreon community, featuring actor Matt Rashid as we discuss the screenplay to A NEW HOPE and act out a couple scenes. Plus, we have a ton of laughs along the way.

Lorenzo Semple's 14-page “Batnotes” memo to prospective Bat-writers lays out the basic things he wanted a writer to understand before attempting a Batman script. In our second episode digging into this memo, we discuss how the villian's real goal often isn't revealed until the end, some surprising revelations on how Semple imagined the GCPD and possible casualties among the henchmen, how murder isn't an MO for Bat-Villains (except for their attempts to murder the Dynamic Duo), and more. Plus: how YOU can help Tim and Paul assemble a TO THE BATPOLES! episode on this topic! Listen to Bat Bits and see the memo we're discussing by subscribing to our Patreon for at least $2 a month! For $4 a month, you ALSO get our monthly discussion of silver age Batman comics as Paul or another in our stable of co-hosts joins Tim to examine individual Batman stories from the 1950s and 60s! Slide down your Batpole to join our Patreon today!

Lessons from the Screenplay returns with some videos deep in the vault. Plenty of valuable information to be shared.Engage!

On this episode, Shadan is joined by Jacob Throneberry to discuss all the above-the-line categories, including Screenplay, Director Acting and Best Picture!   Visit https://insessionfilm.com for merch and more!   Thanks for listening and be sure to subscribe! Become an ISF VIP today to get exclusive bonus content!   Follow us on X/Twitter! @InSessionFilm | @ShadanLarki | @eRockReviews

WEIRD KID VIDEO IS BACK! This episode, it's not about being popular, it's about the caveman we thawed out and became friends with along the way - we are talking about Encino Man (1992).   Screenplay by Shawn Schepps. With a story by George Zaloom & Shawn Schepps Directed By Les Mayfiled. Starring Sean Astin as Dave Morgan, Brendan Fraser as Link and Pauly Shore as Stoney.   Weird Kid Video is hosted by Keean Murrell-Snape, Kira Jade Oppitz and Brodie Kerrkillen. Each sold separately.   New episodes every two weeks. Don't follow us on Instagram @weirdkidvideo This podcast was recorded on Dharawal Country.

Join screenwriter Stuart Wright as he dives into movies that changed your life with filmmaker Nicola Pittam, in this engaging episode of 3 Films That Have Impacted Everything In Your Adult Life. Explore The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring impact, Avatar analysis, and The Memento influence on her personal growth and cinema's transformative power. Sebastian Toursel also discusses Dead Duck Film Club and the inaugural Dead Duck Cult Film Festival, a day of the New French extreme cinema: Titane, High Life, Revenge & Martyrs Movies That Changed Your Life   Find out about how and why screenwriter Sebastian Toursel turns her screenplays into novels and the lasting impact of cinema with Stuart Wright's movie podcast.   [1:30] Why Dead Duck film club? [6:10] The ups and downs of showing people films. [9:50] Why a festival about the New French Extreme horror cinema movement? [16:40] What is the New French Extreme panel about? Who is on it? [22:30] The vendors at the Dead Duck Cult Film Festival. [25:20] 3 Films That Have Impacted Everything In Your Adult Life The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring impact  [26:00] Sebastian Toursel says as a nineties kid, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is the film where the world just opened up for him. He's watched it every year since he was eight. Avatar analysis [32:20] Sebastian Toursel shares how Avatar was the most mindblowing experience of his life. He went to see it in cinemas six times. Each time with different people, but same cinema.  Rec Influence   [37:40] Sebastian Toursel talks about how Rec is the film where horror became his thing. It is intense and amazing. There's a fantastic scene around a group of people have a conversation on the ground floor and a jump scare where for the very first time he almost peed himself.  Key Take Aways:   - Discover how movies that changed your life shape personal and professional growth. - Learn about how Dead Duck Film Club grew into Dead Duck Cult Film Festival. - What is the New French Extreme horror cinema movement  - Understand cinema's transformative power through The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), Avatar (2009), Rec (2007)  - Full show notes and transcript:  About the Guest:   Sebastien Toursel is the founder of the Dead Duck Film Club, Nottingham's home for cult cinema. He screens the weird, the rare, and the unforgettable. His events celebrate global cult films, from Korean thrillers to French horror, all presented with a DIY spirit and a love for the offbeat. He collaborates with local cinemas like The Savoy to bring these unique films to the big screen. Each screening is accompanied by fan-made posters and a community eager to discuss and appreciate the art of cult cinema. https://deadduckfilm.com    Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, follow on Spotify or wherever you listen to your podcasts for more movies that impacted your life!  Share your favourite movies that impacted your life on X (@leytonrocks) and leave a 5-star review and tell us which 3 films impacted your adult life. Best ones get read out on the podcast. Credits:   Intro/Outro music: *Rocking The Stew* by Tokyo Dragons (⁠https://www.instagram.com/slomaxster/⁠)  Written, produced, and hosted by Stuart Wright for [Britflicks.com](⁠https://www.britflicks.com/britflicks-podcast/⁠)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Night of the Blood Monster (1972) AIP Production #7208 Jeff and Cheryl serve as judge, jury and executioner when they watch Night of the Blood Monster. Screenplay by Anthony Scott VeitchBased on an original story by Peter Welbeck  Produced by Harry Alan Towers  Directed by Jess Franco  Starring:  Christopher Lee as Judge Jeffries  Maria Schell as Mother Rosa  Leo Genn as Lord Wessex  Maria Rohm as Mary Gray  Margaret Lee as Alicia Gray  Hans Hass as Harry Selton  Peter Martell as Barnaby  Howard Vernon as Jack Ketch  Milo Quesada as Satchel  Diana Lorys as Sally Gaunt Jose Martinez Blanko as Steven Truro Jose Maria Prada as Palafox An American International Release View the Night of the Blood Monster trailer here. You can stream Night of the Blood Monster on Zoneify or rent it on Apple TV+ or Prime Video. Visit our website - https://aippod.com/ and follow the American International Podcast on Letterboxd, Instagram and Threads @aip_pod and on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericanInternationalPodcast  Get your American International Podcast merchandise at our store. Our open and close includes clips from the following films/trailers: How to Make a Monster (1958), The Brain That Wouldn't Die (1962), I Was a Teenage Werewolf (1957), High School Hellcats (1958), Beach Blanket Bingo (1965), The Wild Angels (1966), It Conquered the World (1956), The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971), and Female Jungle (1955) 

On episode 309 of The AwardsWatch Podcast, Executive Editor Ryan McQuade is joined by Editor-In-Chief Erik Anderson and Associate Editor Sophia Ciminello to give brief thoughts on The Smashing Machine, take a look at Oscar contenders at the Fall Box Office, and breakdown their thoughts on the 2026 Best Original and Best Adapted Screenplay categories. We are in the middle of the New York Film Festival (more on that next week) and at the beginning of the Mill Valley Film Festival, but festival season is in full swing as movies that premiered earlier in the year are making their way to the theaters with The Smashing Machine this weekend. The MMA-biopic vehicle to get The Rock an Oscar seems to be between a rock and a hard place after a lackluster showing at the box office and audience score. The team break down their thoughts of the film, why they think it didn't hit at the box office, as well as look at the other films releasing this weekend and circle back to the numbers for One Battle After Another. In the back half of the episode, Ryan, Erik, and Sophia take a deep look at the screenplay categories, Original and Adapted, which have become a vital category to win if a film is going to win Best Picture. Films mentioned are Sentimental Value, Sinners, Jay Kelly, One Battle After Another, Hamnet, Weapons, Train Dreams, It Was Just An Accident, and many more as possibilities that could make up the ten films that will become the nominees in March 2026. You can listen to The AwardsWatch Podcast wherever you stream podcasts, from iTunes, iHeartRadio, Soundcloud, Stitcher, Spotify, Audible, Amazon Music, YouTube and more. This podcast runs 59m. We will be back in next week to recap and wrap up the 2025 New York Film Festival. Till then, let's get into it. Music: “Modern Fashion” from AShamaleuvmusic (intro), “B-3” from BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack (outro).

THIS IS A PREVIEW. FOR THE FULL EPISODE, GO TO Patreon.com/worstofall The lads hop in their 1964 metallic mint-green Buick Skylarks and get arrested for murder as they cover Jonathan Lynn's 1992 legal comedy: My Cousin Vinny. Topics include the Era of the Screenplay, the film's dedication to legal procedure, and the unspeakable cinematic power of having Marisa Tomei talk about tire-tracks. Media Referenced in this Episode: My Cousin Vinny. Dir. Jonathan Lynn. 1992. Abnormal Interviews: “My Cousin Vinny Director Jonathan Lynn” by Nick Farr. March 13th, 2012. Dale Launer's Incredible Website ‘WHAT IS A YUTE?': AN ORAL HISTORY OF ‘MY COUSIN VINNY' by Andy Greene. Rolling Stone. March 7th, 2022. TWOAPW theme by Brendan Dalton: Patreon // brendan-dalton.com // brendandalton.bandcamp.com Interstitial: “A Phone Call From The Southern Baptist Correctional Facility” // Written by A.J. Ditty and Tony Ditty // feat. A.J. Ditty as “A.J. Ditty”, Eleanor Philips as “Denise”, and Tony Ditty as “Tony Ditty: Lawyer and A.J.'s Actual Father”

On this FINAL episode of Radioactive Rant, Mark and Tom thank all their loyal listeners for sticking with them through over 200 episodes. Their new podcast, “Screenplay to Novel” will be available on all podcast platforms, so please check it out. But, on this last episode of Radioactive Rant, Jimmy Kimmel gets called out for sobbing on TV… again. Quite a few Democrats continue to name-call, even though that type of rhetoric seems to incite violence. Check out Podcast Rant where Mark and Tom scrutinize podcasts that are somehow popular. Also, try to guess the voices of celebrities listeners can't stand on Celebrity Rant—and hear all about the things listeners are fed up with on Listener Rant.Thanks again for listening to Radioactive Rant!Email: rantpodcast@usa.com

Night of the Blood Beast (1958) AIP Production #312 Jeff and Cheryl prepare for an Intergalactic baby shower in Night of the Blood Beast.Screenplay by Martin Varno  From a Story by Gene Corman  Produced by Gene Corman for Balboa Productions Inc. Directed by Bernard L. Kowalski Starring: Michael Emmet as Maj. John Corcoran Angela Greene as Dr. Julie Benson John Baer as Steve Dunlap Ed Nelson as Dave Randall Tyler McVey as Dr. Alex Wyman Georgianna Carter as Donna Bixby Ross Sturlin as The Creature An American International Picture View the Night of the Blood Beast trailer here. You can stream Night of the Blood Beast on the Roku Channel, Fawesome or Plex. Visit our website - https://aippod.com/ and follow the American International Podcast on Letterboxd, Instagram and Threads @aip_pod and on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericanInternationalPodcast  Get your American International Podcast merchandise at our store. Our open and close includes clips from the following films/trailers: How to Make a Monster (1958), The Brain That Wouldn't Die (1962), I Was a Teenage Werewolf (1957), High School Hellcats (1958), Beach Blanket Bingo (1965), The Wild Angels (1966), It Conquered the World (1956), The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971), and Female Jungle (1955) 

The birth of the internet arrives in January 1983, but does that mean MMO's are right around the corner?! The guys discuss this and also take a look at some new games like Joyful Road by SNK, New Sinbad 7 by ATW, The Institute (graphical version) by Screenplay and Changer by Random House in this week's episode!Website -https://historyofvideogamespodcast.comYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@historyofvideogamespodcast1994Twitter - https://twitter.com/HistoryofVideo1Email - historyvgpodcast@gmail.comHosts - Ben & WesMusic - Arranged and recorded by Ben

Join screenwriter Stuart Wright as he dives into movies that changed your life with filmmaker Nicola Pittam, in this engaging episode of 3 Films That Have Impacted Everything In Your Adult Life. Explore Dangerous Liaisons impact, Once Were Warriors analysis, and The Memento influence on her personal growth and cinema's transformative power. Nicola Pittam also discusses why you should be turning your unsold screenplays into novels and the benefits of protecting and exploiting your own intellectual property (IP) Movies That Changed Your Life   Find out about how and why screenwriter Nicola Pittam turns her screenplays into novels and the lasting impact of cinema with Stuart Wright's movie podcast.   [1:45] Why should you be thinking about turning your screenplays into novels. [3:40] The process for turning your screenplay into a novel. [14:40] Onemoorer classes on turning your screenplay into a novel and other support services on offer to writers. [16:30] 3 Films That Have Impacted Everything In Your Adult Life Dangerous Liaisons impact  [17:15] Nicola Pittam says Dangerous Liaisons is one of her favourite films ever and cannot believe none of the actors won an Oscar. And how the script is one of the cleverest and how it's one of those scripts she wishes she had written it. After watching it several times she began to see how nuanced Michelle Pfieffer's character of Madame de Tourvel really is.  Once Were Warriors analysis [22:28] Nicola Pittam shares how Once Were Warriors is a film that stuck with her for weeks after watching it. How she would sit and think about it, talk about it with friends. It was one of the first films she hunted out the novel to get to know the film even more.  Point Break Influence   [27:43] Nicola Pittam talks about how Point Break's director Kathryn Bigelow became a huge influence on her as a result of this film and how it is the perfect action movie.  Key Takeaways:   - Discover how movies that changed your life shape personal and professional growth. - Learn about how and why you should think about turning your unsold screenplays into a novel. - Writer services and special events/webinars available from onemoorer.com  - Dark Anthem Press open for submissions from 21st September 2025. They are looking for full manuscripts of dark gothic, fantasy, horror, sci-fi and thrillers novels.  - Understand cinema's transformative power through Dangerous Liaisons (1988), Once Were Warriors (1994), Point Break (1991)  - Full show notes and transcript:  About the Guest:   Nicola Pittam, Director of Author Services at One Moorer and the Chief Operating Officer/Acquisitions Agent of both Dark Anthem Press and One Anthem Press, is an award winning author and screenwriter who recently converted her The Rebel Pianist of Majdanek script into a bestselling novel, which was sold to Mardle Books UK. Writer services https://writerservices.onemoorer.com Dark Anthem Press writer submissions -https://darkanthempress.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, follow on Spotify or wherever you listen to your podcasts for more movies that impacted your life!  Share your favourite movies that impacted your life on X (@leytonrocks) and leave a 5-star review and tell us which 3 films impacted your adult life. Best ones get read out on the podcast. Credits:   Intro/Outro music: *Rocking The Stew* by Tokyo Dragons (⁠https://www.instagram.com/slomaxster/⁠)  Written, produced, and hosted by Stuart Wright for [Britflicks.com](⁠https://www.britflicks.com/britflicks-podcast/⁠)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Award-winning screenwriter Mike Bierman has carved an unconventional path into the world of storytelling, moving from reading his daughter's audition scripts to building a reputation as both a prolific writer and founder of the Facebook group Screenwriters Who Can Actually Write. In this conversation, he shares his journey into screenwriting, his tough-love philosophy for aspiring writers, and the methods he uses to keep scripts sharp, lean, and engaging. Bierman's unique approach, known as the BAM method (Bierman Asynchronous Method), flips traditional writing on its head by starting with the ending and working backward, ensuring that every scene pushes the story forward.Alongside his process, Mike offers candid insights into the common pitfalls of beginners, from formatting missteps to the trap of relying too heavily on software. He emphasizes that writing is not about perfection on the first draft but about committing words to the page and refining them. His upcoming book, Secrets of Screenwriting: Collected Essays, distills his no-nonsense advice into practical lessons for writers who want to treat screenwriting as a serious craft. Whether through his group, his book, or his methods, Mike challenges writers to move beyond excuses, face the blank page, and create stories that truly stand out.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

As the countdown to Season 4 continues, the guys marvel at Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey. When you realize who the Grim Reaper was because you haven't watched the movie since you were 10, you will be pleasantly surprised! Also Station.Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey, 1991. Directed by Pete Hewitt.Screenplay by Chris Matheson and Ed Solomon.Produced by Scott Kroopf.Starring Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, William Sadler, Joss Ackland and George Carlin.

In 2023, I wrote a screenplay for a feature film in less than a week. I made a video about it for Aralan, my friend JJ's peer-to-peer learning site. Since then, that same screenplay went through another four drafts (which took almost a year). And then, it was re-written into a TV pilot (which took another 6 months).Now, two years later, both scripts sit in folders on my computer, along with all the other unproduced .fdx files I've worked years on. Like my fellow filmmakers, I'm feeling frustrated and scared about our industry. I'm discouraged and tired. But even though I'm lingering in uninspired burnout, I did want to revisit the Lynn of 2023 who felt compelled to finish a story. For no other reason but to write it into existence.So I asked JJ if I could share my class publicly, in hopes that it might energize one of us to keep creating.The full video is above; here is the course intro:This is not the first time that I wrote a script this quickly (it's the third). In fact, the very first one I ever wrote, I Will Make You Mine, I finished in a week. I know this is rare. I know that not everyone works this quickly; even for myself! I don't always write this fast.I have written several scripts since, and not all of them come together like this. But because I was able to do it, I had so many people reach out and ask me how. I thought about it, and I decided that I would make a video for all of you to share my process a little bit. Because much to my surprise, I guess I have a process! I mean, I must if I've done this three times.I still have a little bit of imposter syndrome calling myself a “writer.” I am not a member of the WGA. I've never been paid to write, and I don't follow a lot of writing rules you read about in books like Save the Cat.That said, I Will Make You Mine did end up getting produced and made and has a 100% Rotten Tomato rating. So it's not like I'm not a writer.This is how I wrote a feature film in one week or less, not how you should write a film.Unlike a program where you have somebody like the Coen Brothers or Spike Lee teaching you how to write a screenplay, (which is great — I mean, I definitely want to know more about that process), this is more peer-to-peer. This is like we're sitting in my office, which we are — having a cup of coffee together (or a giant tumbler of water, in my case).So relax and let me tell you a little bit more about my process.My aim is to keep these posts sponsor-free, so if you'd like to support me directly with a paid subscription, that would be very helpful. Please note: I do use affiliate links and may earn a commission when you purchase something. ShopMy Shelf here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit genxtaste.substack.com/subscribe

Predator Review - NovelizationPREDATORA Novel by Paul Monette. Based on a Screenplay by James E. Thomas & John C. Thomas.#predator #prey #bookclub

From of our patron-exclusive episode on Andor. Listen to the full episode over on the Beyond the Screenplay Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/posts/137646578

Terminator 2: Judgement Day - NovelizationTerminator 2: Judgement DayA Novel by Randall Frakes. Based on a Screenplay by James Cameron and William Wisher.#Terminator #T2 #bookclub

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to showrunner-writer Craig Mazin and editor Timothy A. Good about their Emmy® nominated TV show - The Last of Us. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Welcome to a new sub-series of the podcast devoted to screenplays for movies that never got made. There are tons of famous screenplays from Oliver Stone's first draft of Conan to Del Toro's At the Mountains of Madness. For each episode in this series, we will read and review a script that never got made.In this episode, I am joined by author Anthony Trevino and Musician/Filmmaker Issa Diao to discuss The Unproduced Shadow Company by Shane Black and Fred Dekker which was supposed to be John Carpenter's follow-up to They Live in 1988. This cult classic script that was cross between Platoon and Night of the Living Dead is something of a legend. We break it down.

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to creator, showrunner and writer Tony Gilroy and writer Dan Gilroy about their Emmy nominated TV show - Andor. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to showrunner, creator and writer Lauren LeFranc about her Emmy nominated TV show - The Penguin. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to co-creator, co-showrunner and writer Kim Rosenstock about her Emmy nominated TV show - Dying for Sex. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Join TSL Workshops: https://tslworkshops.circle.so Costume designer turned writer/director Courtney Hoffman has worked on some truly iconic films (THE HATEFUL EIGHT, BABY DRIVER) and beloved indies (CAPTAIN FANTASTIC, THE BOY NEXT DOOR). These experiences have profoundly shaped how she approaches storytelling, especially now that she's writing and directing projects starring the likes of Laura Dern and Kaitlyn Dever. In this episode, Courtney shares what writers should (and shouldn't) include in their scripts when it comes to wardrobe, how costume can deepen character, and how different departments will interpret your work if it gets greenlit for production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to dive into a thrilling sci-fi world? Want to uncover the chilling secrets of an alien invasion? I'm excited to welcome Aaron Ryan, a passionate author and self-proclaimed Lord of the Rings geek, to today's episode. Aaron's vivid storytelling, inspired by cinematic masterpieces like Aliens, brings a unique musicality to his gripping narratives. We'll explore his Dissonance series, a four-book series that began as a trilogy and expanded with a prequel, set in a post-apocalyptic 2042. Aaron shares insights into his creative process and the thematic depth of human conflict in his work. He reads an excerpt from his novel, Dissonance, where Cameron Shipley recalls the day the world was ravaged by telepathic gorgons during their devastating 2026 invasion. IN THIS EPISODE: (01:51) Explanation of tetralogy versus quadrilogy, with tetralogy being the correct term for four books, distinct from quadrilogy for movies (02:56) Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien and Aliens, crafts Sci-Fi thriller narratives driven by speculative, scientifically creative concepts (04:22) Discussion on authors crossing genres, explanation of Dissonance as a theme (08:40) Ryan describes incorporating musicality in writing, inspired by the Alien's soundtrack (13:53) Ryan reads an excerpt from Dissonance describing Cameron Shipley recalling the 2026 Alien invasion by Gorgons      KEY TAKEAWAYS: Aaron Ryan's Dissonance series, a gripping sci-fi thriller tetralogy, explores a post-apocalyptic world after a 2026 alien invasion by telepathic Gorgons, blending intense action with themes of human dissonance and survival. Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien and films like Aliens, Ryan crafts a vivid world-building narrative, using weaponized frequencies and a musicality in writing to enhance thrilling scenes, such as those in Dissonance. Dissonance is being adapted into a Screenplay for platforms like Netflix, with its telepathic paralytic Gorgons and weaponized frequencies, highlighting its pulse-pounding storytelling and terrifying alien encounters. Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free/ You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   FICTION CREDITS: Written and read by Aaron Ryan  GUEST RESOURCES: Aaron Ryan Author - Website  Dissonance Alien Invasion Saga - Website Aaron Ryan - LinkedIn Author & Speaker Aaron Ryan - Facebook Business Page Author Aaron Ryan - Twitter Author Aaron Ryan (@authoraaronryan) • Instagram photos and videos Author Aaron Ryan - Pinterest  HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree   BIO: Aaron Ryan, a Washington-based author, lives with his wife, two sons, a dog, a cat, and finches, and writes the Dissonance series, Forecast, The Superhero Anomaly, and business books. Inspired by a second-grade novella, his diverse experiences as a voiceover artist, musician, and more fuel his unique storytelling. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On Toolkit we want to explore the challenges facing filmmakers today, and a growing concern is A.I. But we find for all the promises and fears of what A.I.will do, there are few conversations about what A.I. is actually able to do right now. Writer and director Scott Z. Burns has the perfect case study for us: trying to write a sequel to his and Steven Soderbergh's 'Contagion' using A.I. screenwriters and film critics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Filmmaker James DeMonaco (THE PURGE franchise, THIS IS THE NIGHT) joins Adam and Joe to discuss his career journey and the making of his new feature THE HOME (in theaters now). From growing up in Staten Island with no viable connections to the film industry… to teaching himself how to write scripts armed with only a copy of Syd Field's book SCREENPLAY… to briefly attending NYU film school where he made a friend with a means to securing some financing… to making his first independent film RED which lead to a student Academy Award… to how his script for JACK (co-written with Gary Nadeau) lead to an industry bidding war… to working with cinematic icon Francis Ford Coppola and the brilliant Robin Williams on the project… to writing films like THE NEGOTIATOR, the remake of ASSAULT ON PRECINCT 13 and SKINWALKERS before getting the opportunity to direct his screenplay for LITTLE NEW YORK… to creating the worldwide blockbuster franchise THE PURGE and why he and his producing partner Sébastien K. Lemercier have continued to shaped the franchise through five (soon to be SIX) films… to how visiting family members in elder care facilities lead to the idea for THE HOME… to the casting of SNL alum Pete Davidson and the great John Glover in leading roles of the film… to what it was like shooting a film with a cast of elderly people during the tail end of COVID…to learning that every writer needs a “Mad Hungarian” and tons of other anecdotes he's learned throughout his career… this honest conversation about the path of becoming a filmmaker is one that every artist can benefit from.

The BTS team discusses the film's aesthetic triumphs, why it works as an allegory, and how budgetary constraints may have made for a more focused final product.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ymaFd4Z50ZUBig Swing Summer Schedule: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131204547

Send us a textIn which we finally, definitively fix all the Academy's mistakes.

The BTS team discusses the function of nonlinear structure, how the dialogue expertly establishes stakes, and what makes the opening act is so compelling.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NcXpRUWVCqcBig Swing Summer Schedule: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131204547

In this week's episode, Chazz takes the mic solo to answer your questions. Everything from the making of Call of Duty to working with iconic directors like De Niro and Woody Allen. He talks about why humility matters in Hollywood, what separates good writing from great writing, and how Bronx Tale almost didn't happen. You'll hear stories about acting, screenwriting, and the life-changing advice that shaped Chazz's career. Whether you're in the industry or just a fan of his work, this episode is full of heartfelt, honest wisdom and stories you won't hear anywhere else. To send in your question, visit ChazzPalminteri.net or reach out on Instagram.

The BTS team discusses Baz Luhrmann's style and whether it adds or detracts from the narrative, the choice to use Shakespeare's original dialogue, and why we want a Mercutio and Tybalt spin-off.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iJBb62bI-SkBig Swing Summer Schedule: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131204547

From of our patron-exclusive episode on Cloud Atlas. Listen to the full episode over on the Beyond the Screenplay Patreon:⁠https://www.patreon.com/posts/patreon-cloud-133251641

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to co-writer Erik Jendresen and writer-director Christopher McQuarrie about Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Welcome listeners to Your World of Creativity, where we talk with creative professionals around the globe about how they bring ideas to life.Our guest today is Jordan Morris—an award-winning producer, director, and screenwriter known for Nintendo Quest and Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe, which won TIFF's People's Choice Award for Best Documentary. He's also the creator of the Life & Death Story Model™ and founder of the Six Months to Screenplay program. Jordan is known as The Writer Igniter—and we're excited to explore how he helps writers bring emotionally powerful stories to life.Jordan 's Website Here's an overview of our conversation:1. The Story Starts HereJordan, your Life & Death Story Model™ is a fascinating framework. What inspired you to rethink traditional narrative structures, and how does it shift the way writers approach their scripts from the start? Can you give us a quick example of this model in action?2. From Plot to PulseYou say, ‘Plot grabs attention. Emotion keeps it.' What does it take for writers to master The Emotional Arc™—and why do so many scripts fall flat in this area? How do you help writers dig deeper emotionally without losing structure?3. Story Forge & Undercooked ConceptsYou've coined the term ‘undercooked concepts'—which feels painfully accurate for many writers. What's your process for Story Forging™, and how can it help pressure-proof a story idea before diving into draft one?4. The Writer's Voice & MindsetOriginality isn't always about ideas—it's about voice. How do you coach writers to uncover a voice so distinct it can't be ignored? And what mindset shift must occur for a writer to go from aspiring to producing? How do you balance preserving voice with the demands of marketability or genre?5. Creativity in a Changing LandscapeYou've worked across theatre, film, and now community-building with Storytowne. How do you see the creative process evolving today—especially with new tools like AI? Are we witnessing the revolution or the ruin of storytelling? What role does Six Months to Screenplay play in future-proofing storytellers?Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Use the code CREATIVITY at checkout for 10% off your first order at WhiteCloudCoffee.comBe sure to subscribe to Your World of Creativity, rate us, and leave a review on your favorite podcast app. Join us again for more insights into how creative professionals around the world bring their ideas to life.

The BTS team discusses the film's decades-long development, its rich story world, and ultimately how inconsistencies in pacing, character motivation, and tone keep it from feeling like a cohesive narrative.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/x7zpbrdCM4sBig Swing Summer Schedule: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131204547

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to actor Jason Isaacs about Season 3 of White Lotus. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

The BTS team discusses the construction of a modern musical with a small cast, the central's character's choices and motivations, and how the opening musical number sets the stage for the rest of the film.Big Swing Summer Schedule: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131204547

There are so many Roger Corman films we could've discussed but we throw a few curves and talk about some of the ones people miss on their Corman lists. From 1954's Highway Dragnet, which was Corman's first produced Screenplay to Frankenstien Unbound his last directed film from 1992

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to actor Dichen Lachman about Season 2 of Severance. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

The BTS team discusses the film's grounded central relationship, ambitious plot mechanics, and masterful blending of the two at the story's midpoint.Big Swing Summer Schedule: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131204547