Podcasts about screenwriters

Rewind. On Christmas Eve 2000, Susan Berman, a talented journalist, screenwriter, and author, sadly lost her life at her home on 1527 Benedict Canyon Drive in Beverly Hills. Susan, the cherished daughter of a mobster and a former dancer, was raised as part of mob royalty, celebrating birthdays with Elvis and Liberace. Her tragic passing deeply affected her friends, leaving us wondering—did Susan ever suspect her killer?Executive Producer Kristin OvernExecutive Producer and Host Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Rodman Edward Serling (December 25, 1924 – June 28, 1975) was an American screenwriter and television producer best known for his live television dramas of the 1950s and his anthology television series The Twilight Zone. Serling was active in politics, both on and off the screen, and helped form television industry standards. He was known as the "angry young man" of Hollywood, clashing with television executives and sponsors over a wide range of issues, including censorship, racism, and war.PICTURE: By CBS Television via the Bureau of Industrial Service. During the 1950s and 1960s, television networks, program sponsors and studios often used either advertising or public relations agencies to distribute publicity materials. The Bureau was a division of ad agency Young & Rubicam. - eBay itemphoto frontpress release from back, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=18858925

Watch script reading: https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/in-the-house-that-elle-built Elizabeth has her hands full with her two foster kids, a roommate and a new love interest that she's not sure can handle her lifestyle. https://www.instagram.com/lbe.hackney/ —— Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

With the LA Screenwriting Weekend approaching, Jake sits down with writer and teacher Steven Bagatourian to explore the balance between fire, craft, and voice. Together they dig into why instinct needs structure, why structure needs heat, and how the voice you're seeking often emerges in the friction between the two.

‘Moulin Rouge! The Musical' is running at Bord Gáis Energy Theatre from November 2025 to January 11.Joining Andrea to discuss is Tony and Academy Award–nominated Playwright, Screenwriter, and Producer behind the show, John Logan!

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to playwright/co-screenwriter Winnie Holzman and co-screenwriter Dana Fox about their new film, Wicked: For Good. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Fear. Joy. Anger. Sadness. For Oscar-nominated screenwriter Meg LeFauve, these characters aren't just creations — they're living, breathing beings who rely on her to get their stories out of her head and onto the page. And Meg doesn't take that responsibility lightly. In this wide-ranging conversation, the writer behind Inside Out, Inside Out 2, The Good Dinosaur, Captain Marvel, and more shares the sacred, deeply human process of storytelling. She talks about why fear is never the enemy, the real work behind cultivating curiosity, and how Pixar's legendary “brain trust” taught her to embrace failure faster. Meg opens up about her lifelong companion (anxiety) and the rituals that help her keep showing up for her characters, even when doubt floods in. She also reflects on writing with her husband, honoring creative timing, and the everyday courage it takes to evolve — both on the page and in life itself.

Join screenwriter Stuart Wright as he dives into movies that changed your life with screenwriter Philip Ralph, in this engaging episode of 3 Films That Have Impacted Everything In Your Adult Life. Explore Barton Fink impact, Big Night analysis, and Bloody Sunday influence on his personal growth and cinema's transformative power. Philip Ralph also discusses the ongoing, rolling paradigm shift/crisis in the TV industry (and film industry too), the impact on working class people entering/staying in the TV industry and what the TV industry could be doing to make things better. Movies That Changed Your Life   Find out about the ongoing, rolling paradigm shift/crisis in the TV industry and the lasting impact of cinema with Stuart Wright on his movie podcast.   [2:00] What do you mean by rolling paradigm shift/crisis in the TV industry? [8:40] Philip's open tweet to the industry goes viral [12:00] The political argument for the cultural importance of public service broadcasting to the wider successes in UK TV (and film) [15:00] UK TV has to be affordable to be sustainable and costs are rocketing. [17:00] What are the opportunities to improve the UK TV industry? We need to go back to basics. You need to invest in the future of the industry. More low budget shows? [21:00] Channel 5 resurrection of Play For Today  [23:40] We need a bit of punk ethos [31:00] The pressure that every show has to sell around world stifles innovation/narrows the window of opportunity. [34:00] 3 Films That Have Impacted Everything In Your Adult Life Barton Fink impact  [34:45] Philip Ralph saw Barton Fink at the now defunct Lumiere Cinema when he was studying at RADA. It really stayed with him and has become something incredibly important to his life. Big Night analysis [42:00] Philip Ralph says Big Night is his favourite film of all time. He could've done a whole podcast on Big Night he loves it so much. For Philip, Big Night is the perfect evocation of art versus commerce.  Bloody Sunday Influence   [48:40] Philip Ralph says that Bloody Sunday, over and above the execution of it, demonstrates Paul Greengrass's unique ability to take you into the minutiae of a day like that and never dehumanises anybody, even the people who end up doing appalling things. The power of it as a piece of documentary drama, it inspired a whole strand of Philip's writing life. Key Take Aways:   - Discover how movies that changed your life shape personal and professional growth. Learn about the ongoing, rolling paradigm shift/crisis in the TV industry (and film industry) What the we and the TV industry could be doing to make things better Understand the impact on working class people Understand cinema's transformative power through Barton Fink (1991), Big Night (1996), Bloody Sunday (2002) About the Guest:   Philip Ralph is a a multi-award-winning writer for screen and stage. Find him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-ralph-1258a7260/ Philip's keynote speech on class in the UK TV industry given at Leeds University's Media department in Ocftober 2025 - COMMON PEOPLE: Reclaiming The Narrative On Class in TV at a Time of Crisis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_66i8f815oA Play for Today: The revival hoping to save British TV from a class crisis https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/features/play-for-today-channel-5-b2863772.html?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Twitter#Echobox=1763018711 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

For the first episode of NukeTalk's new season, Nuclear Movie Club, we are joined by Noah Oppenheim, screenwriter of A House of Dynamite—a new Netflix film by Kathryn Bigelow—and former president of NBC News.  The Nuclear Movie Club will cover 10 defining movies in the nuclear film canon that represent a breadth of plot, theme, tone, and cultural impact. What do these films get right, and wrong, about depictions of nuclear threat? And what are the lasting impacts nuclear films can have on culture, policy, and public opinion? We will explore these questions, themes, and lots of fun facts on this season of NukeTalk. Follow NukeTalk on X @nuke_talk and Instagram @nuke_talk. Learn more about how you can contribute to global nuclear threat reduction by visiting Ploughshares at: ploughshares.org and signing up for our newsletter. This season of NukeTalk is produced and hosted by Rebecka Green. Editing done by Ryan Kuhfeld.

Screenwriter, playwright, author and director Samuel Garza Bernstein joins Frank Mackay on this episode of The Frank Mackay Show!

Tonight's special guest on the Small Talk Podcast: Emilio Hughes MartinezAs an accomplished Hollywood screenwriter and producer, Emilio Hughes Martinez combines a deep passion for storytelling with nearly a decade of hands-on entertainment industry experience. Throughout his career, he has produced and directed shorts, co-produced a variety of projects for Eclectic Pictures, and co-written scripts with decorated collaborators. Notably, Martinez's film THE METHOD (2020) won Best Experimental Short Film at the International Films Infest Festival in New York and received accolades at various other prestigious competitions.Martinez's latest completed project, THE FOURTH BRANCH (2024), has gained multiple accolades, including selections for the Academy Award-qualifying Los Angeles Shorts International Film Fest, Riverside International Film Festival, and Vesuvius International Film Festival. It took prizes at Independent Short Fest and IndieX Fest.Martinez was on the esteemed studio executive teams behind several recognizable big screen feature titles, including THE HITMAN'S WIFE'S BODYGUARD (starring Ryan Reynolds and Salma Hayek) and BLACKBIRD (starring Kate Winslet and Susan Sarandon).Martinez's current development slate includes creative partnerships with Nick Vallelonga (GREEN BOOK Oscar winner) and James Cox (BILLIONAIRE BOYS CLUB). With a commitment to crafting compelling narratives about uncommon characters, Emilio Martinez endeavors to deliver impactful content that resonates far and wide.Small Talk co-host Marlene Sharp is a LinkedIn micro-influencer who wears many hats in multi-platform media. Small Talk Podcast is a monthly entertainment podcast talk show hosted by Marlene Sharp & Chris Pomay (Live With CDP Sports & Entertainment Talk Show and founder of CDP Media Productions) with various guests from around the world in different professions. #smalltalkpodcast #marlenesharp #chrispomay #emiliohughesmartinez https://pinkpoodleproductions.com/https://beacons.ai/chrisdpomayhttps://www.cameo.com/chrispomayhttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast...Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/54200596..https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/chrispomay

#realconversations #screenwriter #professor #Hollywood#Casablanca #producer #author #NichollFellowshipCONVERSATIONS WITH CALVIN WE THE SPECIES hosted by CalvinSchwartzMeet ALAN ROTH, Screenwriter. “Speaking of movies, I'm ahopeless romantic, as many know. My first novel, Vichy Water, arrived from deepspace after my 44th viewing of ‘Casablanca.' Alan and I talk about Bogart andthe Epstein brothers, screenwriters of that movie. Alan arrived in my field ofvision from deep networking space and illuminated me with his journey intoscreenwriting and his vast command and knowledge of Hollywood and the art ofscreenwriting. What lit his fire was winning the coveted Nicholl FellowshipAward for Best Original Screenplay (Jersey City Story). The stories we areprivileged to hear now. Alan is magnetic, passionate, and beyond knowledgeable.I clicked my heels, listened, and asked more questions. He made my day,” Calvinhttps://www.youtube.com/c/ConversationswithCalvinWetheSpecIEs672 Interviews/Videos  9200 SUBSCRIBERSGLOBAL Reach. Earth Life. Amazing People.  PLEASE SUBSCRIBE **ALAN ROTH; Screenwriter, (Nicholl Fellowship Award),Producer, Adjunct Prof Screenwriting-Fairleigh Dickinson University; LIVE fromNew YorkYouTube: LINK:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-roth-01b7879/BIO: Alan Roth graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson Universityin New Jersey with degrees in History and English Literature, then attendedgraduate school at Emerson College in Boston, where he received an MFA inCreative WritingHe is a Fellow of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts andSciences and serves as an adjunct professor of writing at Fairleigh Dickinson'sSchool of the Arts.A winner of the coveted Nicholl Fellowship Academy Award forBest Original Screenplay (Jersey City Story), he works with producers ondeveloping projects for both film and TV.**WE ARE ALSO ON AUDIOAUDIO “Conversations with Calvin; WE the SpecIEs”ANCHOR https://lnkd.in/g4jcUPqSPOTIFY https://lnkd.in/ghuMFeCAPPLE PODCASTSBREAKER https://lnkd.in/g62StzJGOOGLE PODCASTS https://lnkd.in/gpd3XfMPOCKET CASTS https://pca.st/bmjmzaitRADIO PUBLIC https://lnkd.in/gxueFZw

Diane Drake is a screenwriter who is best known for writing Only You (1994) and What Women Want (2000).She is also the author of the screenwriting book, Get Your Story Straight. Click the link to get it on Amazon.Diane will be a mentor at the Rocaberti Writers Retreat in Figueres, Spain, March 2026To find press and podcasts featuring Diane, click here.To read an extended interview with Diane, click here.Support the showFor more information on Lovinder Gill's best-selling book "Scriptcake Secrets" or his public speaking schedule, please check out www.lovinder.com.

294 / Do you want to pitch your book to Hollywood? Screenwriter, playwright, and novelist Bart Baker shares how authors can position their books for adaptations. He also gives us the story behind Honeymoon With Harry, a movie deal twenty-plus years in the making, which will go into production in 2026, starring Kevin Costner and Jake Gyllenhaal for Amazon/MGM. Lessons from writing plays, scripts, and novelsWhat authors should know about adaptation and selling movie rightsWhen to get legal advice The business side: money management finding trusted advisorsWhy following trends is unhelpful—and what to do instead

Screenwriter/therapist David Silverman (HOW TO BE A ROCKSTAR SCREENWRITER) talks about how the long view is crucial, using the Pomodoro Technique, and the story behind his show THE WILD THORNBERRYShttp://hollywoodscriptwriting.comhttp://davidsilvermanlmft.com

The director, producer, screenwriter and visual effects artist was known for his science-fiction and horror B-movies, often featuring supersized creatures.

Watch best scene reading: https://youtu.be/lFYy7OmYfPo Waking in a future with floating cities topping thousands of stories, run by radioactive intelligence, where imagination blends with machine, an amnesiac finds her destiny. —— Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Today on Whats My Frame I'm joined by acclaimed playwright and screenwriter Daniel Pearle. Daniel joins us to chat about his newest project THE BEAST IN ME where he served as writer and executive producer. We take a deep dive into creative process, research and understanding your character's voice. Daniel's plays have been produced and developed at Lincoln Center Theater, London's Old Vic, The Vineyard, Ars Nova, and at regional theaters around the country. His play A Kid Like Jake premiered in a sold-out run at LCT3/Lincoln Center Theater (NY Times Critic's Pick). Other plays include Freefall (finalist, 2017 O'Neill Playwrights Conference), Remote Viewing (semi-finalist, 2015 O'Neill Playwrights Conference), and The Prodigies (semi-finalist, 2013 O'Neill Playwrights Conference).Daniel's feature film adaptation of A Kid Like Jake premiered at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. The film is directed by Silas Howard and stars Claire Danes, Jim Parsons, and Octavia Spencer. Other film credits include: Minyan (2020) and Oliver Sipple (currently in development with Mad Chance Productions).Daniel served as co-showrunner and executive producer on season 2 of Fox's Accused and is currently a writer and executive producer on Netflix's upcoming The Beast in Me. Other TV credits include Impeachment: American Crime Story (FX) and One of Us is Lying (Peacock). Daniel was awarded the 2018 Humanitas New Voices Grant for emerging writers in television. He is an alum of Ars Nova's Play Group and a MacDowell Fellow. He earned his BA from Harvard University and his MFA from The New School for Drama.Official site@danielpearle

Seth Michael Donsky was named to the International Screenwriters Association's list of the top 25 screenwriters to watch. He's currently working on a project exploring the 1951 best actress Oscar race. Co-hosts: Jonathan Friedmann & Joey Angel-Field Producer-engineer: Mike Tomren Seth's websitehttps://sethdonsky.com/ Seth's IMDbhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm0233094/ Amusing Jews Merch Storehttps://www.amusingjews.com/merch#!/ Subscribe to the Amusing Jews podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/show/amusing-jews Adat Chaverim – Congregation for Humanistic Judaism, Los Angeleshttps://www.humanisticjudaismla.org/ Jewish Museum of the American Westhttps://www.jmaw.org/ Atheists United Studioshttps://www.atheistsunited.org/au-studios

Have any questions about screenwriting? Comment below and I'll address them in future podcasts.My novel Deadpan is out in hardcover! Order it here. Get full access to Get Reel with Richard Walter at richardwalter.substack.com/subscribe

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to co-writer/director Dan Trachtenberg about his new film, Predator: Badlands. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Screenwriter Samantha Strauss on her grandmother's vibrant last years in a Gold Coast retirement home where love, sex and startlingly pragmatic conversations about dying were all part of daily life. (CW: not suitable for children) (R)Samantha Strauss started dancing from the age of 2, and as she grew up, she became increasingly serious about it.Sam was 18 when her budding ballet career was cut short by a shocking injury.After a year on the couch recovering, she reinvented herself.A few years later, inspired by the story of her own life in ballet, she co-created a TV series called Dance Academy.Dance Academy went on to screen in 160 countries, with Sam as the head writer across the 65 episodes.Sam's next show, The End, was set partly in a Gold Coast retirement village.Samantha got the idea as she watched how her own Grandmother's life changed after moving into a similar place at the end of her life.She expected to hate it, but eventually she found a circle of friends who partied hard and talked freely about love, sex, and death, including experimenting with making their own Nembutal.Further informationOriginally broadcast April 2021.Samantha has since won a Logie for her work on the Netflix program Apple Cider Vinegar, based on Belle Gibson's life.This episode was produced by Nicola Harrison. The Executive Producer was Carmel Rooney.It explores Belle Gibson, wellness, scam, scammers, Philip Nitschke, exit international, VAD, voluntary assisted dying, nursing home, aged care, grandparent grandchild relationship, sick parent, writing, being a writer, dance career, LA, Los Angeles, film industry, connections, Australians in LA, actors, nudists and naturalists.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you'll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Nora Garrett is a writer and actress. She is a 2024 honoree of Variety's annual “10 Screenwriters to Watch” issue and was recently staffed on Ed Solomon's new series THE SPOT for A24 and Hulu. Nora wrote the new film AFTER THE HUNT, directed by Luca Guadagnino and starring Julia Roberts, Andrew Garfield, Ayo Edebiri, and Michael Stuhlbarg. The film follows a college professor who finds herself at a personal and professional crossroads when a star pupil levels an accusation against one of her colleagues and a dark secret from her own past threatens to come to light. In this interview, we talk about her transition from acting to writing, her frustration with how female characters are described in scripts, the importance of empathetic connection by reading stories in voices different from one's own, the creation of AFTER THE HUNT, and much more. Want more? Steal my first book, INK BY THE BARREL - SECRETS FROM PROLIFIC WRITERS, right now for free. Simply head over to www.brockswinson.com to get your free digital download and audiobook. If you find value in the book, please share it with a friend as we're giving away 100,000 copies this year. It's based on over 400 interviews here at Creative Principles. Enjoy! If you enjoy the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts? It only takes about 60 seconds, and it really helps convince some of the hard-to-get guests to sit down and have a chat (simply scroll to the bottom of your iTunes Podcast app and click “Write Review"). Enjoy the show!

Deon Cole joins Jim to discuss how the entertainment industry has evolved over his career in Hollywood. Cole talks about what it takes to learn comedy writing, how he became a writer The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien, and reveals how one elevator ride led to Andy Richter becoming Conan's sidekick. Cole also discusses how the emergence of AI can affect the entertainment industry, his evolution from comedian and writer into actor with screen credits in "Black-ish" and the "Barbershop" movies. Cole also reveals his best comedian icons of all-time, and why filming his 2022 Netflix stand-up special "Charleen's Boy" was such a poignant experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're kicking off the Fall/Winter 2025 season of OnWriting with a roundtable conversation between screenwriters Nia DaCosta, Benny Safdie and Will Tracy, who sat down to discuss their latest projects, the writing process, and more. Nia DaCosta is the writer and director of Hedda, a provocative, modern reimagining of Henrik Ibsen's classic play in which the titular Hedda Gabler finds herself torn between the lingering ache of a past love and the quiet suffocation of her present life. Benny Safdie is the writer and director of The Smashing Machine, the true story of mixed martial arts and UFC fighter Mark Kerr, whose obsession with greatness made him a legend — and nearly cost him everything. Will Tracy is the writer of Bugonia, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, in which two conspiracy-obsessed men kidnap the CEO of a major company when they become convinced that she's an alien who wants to destroy Earth. --- Read shownotes, transcripts, and other member interviews: wgaeast.org/onwriting Follow the Guild on social media: @WGAEast OnWriting is a production of the Writers Guild of America East. The show is produced by WGA East staff members Jason Gordon, Tiana Timmerberg, and Molly Beer. Production, editing, and mix by Giulia Hjort. Original music is by Taylor Bradshaw. Artwork is designed by Molly Beer.

Host Jeff Goldsmith talks to co-writer/director Edgar Wright and co-writer Michael Bacall about their new film, The Running Man. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

Interested in Area 51 Studio? Enjoy a discount for a limited time, to you, from Ernie. You can get 20% off the comic, or 20% off both issues together. Shop Area 51 Studios and catch Aztec Batman: Clash of Empires on AppleTV+ or Prime Video.

Who would have known there was such beauty in public toilets? Screenwriter and Director Steven Bernstein sure does, as he joins the pod to unpack the masterpiece Perfect Days (2023)!  Where to find Steven:Get Rich Quick: https://a.co/d/b0sMiJP Filmmaker and Fans: https://filmmakerandfans.com/Instagram: @stevenbernsteindirectorwriterContact the Podmoviestruckpod@gmail.comwww.moviestruck.transistor.fmPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/moviestruckDiscord: https://discord.gg/cT2vm3KdeSBlueSky: @moviestruck.bsky.socialTheme by Prod. DomSoundcloudThank you to our $10 Patrons!Kaeldrannas, Cai, Clove, Maddy New, Adam Bagnall, UwU, Zas, Ken M, Madidid, Ethan, Jim8333, Jacob Hunt, Azraq Shinji, Case Aiken, Ebony Voigt, AnOptimist, Lairde Ray, the Norwegian one, Travis Poe, William Warren, Stag Hart (Deer Deer), Rusty_Fork, Mura Purcell, insomnite, Nathan Dunlap. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

 In remembrance of the wonderful writer, director, and actor Adrienne Shelly, we're excited to share again The Writers' Hangout Episode dedicated to her story, which we originally posted in the month she passed. It's a heartfelt chance to get to know this talented and incredible woman, whose life was tragically cut short. We hope you feel inspired and connected through her story.The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Executive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

The Democrats' government shutdown is reaching a boiling point, as the airline industry is close to shutting down due to a lack of safety staff. At what point will Democrats stop playing games and open the government back up? You become what you engage with, Glenn argues, so what are you surrounding yourself with? Screenwriter of Netflix's “A House of Dynamite” Noah Oppenheim joins to share the harsh reality of how close we are to nuclear war.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Democrats' government shutdown is reaching a boiling point, as the airline industry is close to shutting down due to a lack of safety staff. At what point will Democrats stop playing games and open the government back up? Glenn gives a supposedly final monkey update, as the last infected monkey on the loose has been captured. Glenn discusses his latest podcast with Dr. Diane Hennacy, which left him with an entirely different view of autism. Glenn warns of a looming deception campaign unlike anything we've seen before. You become what you engage with, Glenn argues, so what are you surrounding yourself with? Screenwriter of Netflix's “A House of Dynamite” Noah Oppenheim joins to share the harsh reality of how close we are to nuclear war. Composer and concert pianist Stephen Limbaugh joins to explain how you can help celebrate America's 250th anniversary through the magic of music.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.

Hollywood moves fast, and even the best careers can fade. Hosts Tasha Huo and Josh Hallman share ways to stay relevant as a screenwriter and keep your career thriving. Plus... TWIW!   Questions / Comments: ActTwoWriters@gmail.com Edited by the GREAT Paul Lundquist 

In this episode, No Film School founder Ryan Koo sits down with contributor and fellow Austinite Jordan Aldridge to recap the highlights and insights from the 32nd annual Austin Film Festival. Known as "The Writers Festival," AFF has emerged as a critical space for screenwriters, writer-directors, and filmmakers to connect, learn, and showcase their work. Ryan and Jordan discuss how the festival nurtures emerging talent, supports the craft of screenwriting, and uniquely prioritizes writers. They also dig into the implications of Texas's new film incentive, SB 22, and what it means for the future of production in the Lone Star State. In this episode, No Film School's Ryan Koo and Jordan Aldridge discuss... Why the Austin Film Festival is considered the top screenwriting festival The unique setup of AFF with its focus on panels and Q&As over red carpets Highlights from panels with Michael Arndt, Celine Song, Christine Vachon, and Rian Johnson Screenwriter Andrew Kevin Walker's brutally honest take on breaking in The inspiring breakout story of writer Austin Kolodny and Dead Man's Wire The economics of the film industry and why 90–97% of films don't make money True stories as a strong route into the industry for aspiring screenwriters Texas's new $1.5 billion film incentive and how it could change U.S. production hubs Concerns about creative censorship tied to discretionary state grants The continued power of writing on spec, especially in genre like horror and action Memorable Quotes: "The artist is not the beggar for the producer's attention.” "I'm willing to bet the next two years of my life that that's a great ending." "There are a lot of us knocking at the door... We may do it for free for years." "You could get a coursework over a weekend at the Austin Film Festival." Resources: Michael Arndt's Video Lectures Previous AFF Roundtable Episode (with GG Hawkins) Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram  

"Bugonia" is an absurdist black comedy film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos from a screenplay by Will Tracy that adapts the 2003 South Korean film "Save the Green Planet!" by Jang Joon-hwan. The film follows two young men who kidnap a powerful CEO, suspecting that she is secretly an alien who wants to destroy Earth. The film stars Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Aidan Delbis, Stavros Halkias, and Alicia Silverstone. It had its world premiere in the main competition of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival and also screened at the Telluride Film Festival to positive reviews. Stone, Plemons, Lanthimos, and Tracy were all kind enough to spend time speaking with us about their work and experiences making the film, which you can listen to below. Please be sure to check out the film, which is now playing in theaters from Focus Features. Thank you, and enjoy! Check out more on NextBestPicture.com Please subscribe on... Apple Podcasts - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/negs-best-film-podcast/id1087678387?mt=2 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7IMIzpYehTqeUa1d9EC4jT YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWA7KiotcWmHiYYy6wJqwOw And be sure to help support us on Patreon for as little as $1 a month at https://www.patreon.com/NextBestPicture and listen to this podcast ad-free Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode - Hilliard, TV/Film writer SAEED CRUMPLER, and comedy/drama writer RICH SCOTT talk about how the global economic downturn could affect the entertainment industry, and what writers can do to protect themselves financially and creatively. What You'll Learn:How and why artists fight back by starting their own labels and production companiesSurvival is Key"Make Money Sexy Again"What should Emerging writers write in 2026Being a TastemakerAI and how to writers can work with itChange is constant, adapt or dieMentorship - the good and badAnd so much more!

Hosts Tasha Huo and Josh Hallman chat with horror writer and Friend of the Podcast, David Levinson (Welcome Home), about their favorite movie villains and how they were written to make a lasting impression.   TWIW: How do you manage the financial realities of being a spec writer? / What are Tasha, Josh and Dave dressing up as for Halloween??   Questions / Comments: ActTwoWriters@gmail.com Edited by the GREAT Paul Lundquist 

Send us a textIn this episode, we're joined by screenwriter Jack Epps, Jr. and his student, up and coming screenwriter Kate Ginley, who is writing a screenplay about Pan Am and Tenerife.Jack is now a professor and Chair of the Writing for Screen and Television Division at the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts, also known as USC. But you probably already know of him from the most iconic aviation films ever made — the 1986 blockbuster Top Gun, which he co-wrote with his longtime screenwriting partner, Jim Cash. Starring Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer, Top Gun didn't just redefine aviation movies — it became a cultural phenomenon. It inspired generations of aviators, reignited pride in flight, and set the gold standard for how aviation could be portrayed on screen.The film was also a popular hit during its run as a featured movie of Pan Am's Theatre in the Air. Beyond the breathtaking aerial footage, Top Gun is a brilliant study in the craft of screenwriting — how character, emotion, and story structure come together to create cinematic magic.After Top Gun, Jack Epps, Jr.  and Jim Cash went on to write a series of major Hollywood hits, including Legal Eagles, The Secret of My Success, Dick Tracy, and Turner & Hooch. Today, Jack brings that same storytelling mastery to his students at USC — shaping the next generation of screenwriters and filmmakers.In our conversation, we'll talk about Jack's remarkable career, his insights into the art and discipline of screenwriting, the enduring legacy of Top Gun, and how Kate is carrying that storytelling spirit forward in her new screenplay about Pan Am and the tragedy at Tenerife.Support the show Visit Us for more Pan Am History! Support the Podcast! Donate to the Museum! Visit The Hangar online store for Pan Am gear! Become a Member! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!A very special thanks to Mr. Adam Aron, Chairman and CEO of AMC and president of the Pan Am Historical Foundation and Pan Am Brands for their continued and unwavering support!

Tim and John welcome screenwriter Josh Olson, who discusses his journey in adapting the graphic novel “A History of Violence” into a critically acclaimed film. (Now available from the Criterion Collection at Deep Discount.) Caught My Eye reveals that rocker Rod Stewart is a model train aficionado, and the one and only Hair Museum has closed in Missouri. Our business birthday celebrates that famed Italian American Ettore Boiardi or as we all know him: Chef Boyardee. We're all business. Except when we're not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW Tunein: bit.ly/1SE3NMb YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

So you want to be a screenwriter… now what? In a rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes, we dig into the essential questions every writer should ask before jumping into a draft — questions that are just as valuable for seasoned pros as they are for those starting out. --- Looking for more support on your writing journey? Join Meg and Lorien inside TSL Workshops - your first 5 days are free. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actress Rocky Shay and Director, Screenwriter and Producer William Mean calls into the podcast to talk about her new film "Junkie".

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ATnlU8JqBA The vicious attack that almost killed her erased all that she was. But not what she did. Elyse Tysoni s shocked to learn her taped confessions remove any hope of escaping her nightmare. Desperate for a lifeline, her only option is to be studied by Doctor Steve Bennett, a psychologist who specializes in psychopaths, to prove she is no longer a threat. But as the study progresses, it'sclearthere'smore to herstory than anyone knew. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? ORIGIN STORY is about a woman, Elyse Tyson, who wakes from a coma to find herself in prison with no memory. Everything that made her who she was is gone; her life turned into a living nightmare. And she's still responsible for what she did. She's a serial killer. Or at least she was. We follow Elyse as she tries to piece together who she is now by delving into her past, even if that means losing herself again. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Psychological Thriller Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? Beyond immersing the audience in a thrilling journey into the dark recesses of the human mind, ORIGIN STORY explores what makes us who we are and the meaning of justice. By putting those concepts to the test in a scenario that is an extreme contrast to what most of us experience, it makes difficult subjects easier to digest and provokes discussion. How would you describe this script in two words? Relentless suspense What movie have you seen the most times in your life? It's a toss-up between Terminator 2 and The Princess Bride. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORLXdXShdAk Desperate to escape her abusive, Christian Nationalist family, a teenage girl finds an unlikely ally when a female werewolf from a pack dead set on killing her family lands in her home, and the attraction they develop for each other forces them into a fight for their very survival. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? Beasties is a coming of age, horror story, about Mara, a late teen girl living on a remote ranch in Montana with her abusive, Christian nationalist family with dreams, but no means, of escaping. Her life changes when Lilly, the daughter of an equally toxic werewolf clan traveling through Montana, ends up saving Mara's life and consequently lands in Mara's family's home during an extreme winter storm. As Lilly's family descends on the farm to retrieve Lilly, Mara's family realizes that Lilly and Mara have formed a romantic connection, going against the very roots of their family moral system. With Lilly's family hell bent on destroying Mara's, and Mara's family hell bent on destroying Mara and Lilly, the two girls find themselves in a desperate battle for survival that forces them to each question their own moral compass if they are to win. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Horror and coming of age Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? This movie works with current and relevant themes that are being questioned in our current political climate. The idea of “beasts” is examined in the film superficially as the werewolves, but more authentically of how we have characterized people as beasts within our society based on our morale beliefs. While Mara's mom tries to initially save Lilly because it is the Christian thing to do, once she realizes that Mara and Lilly have connected romantically, she moves to kill not just Lilly, but also Mara, as her religious beliefs are so compromised by the thought of her daughter being a lesbian. The script also explores the hypocrisy of using our beliefs to defend our actions. In spite of his strong religious beliefs, Mara's father kills Lilly's father early in the script because he feels that Lilly's father is morally beneath him. The script also explores themes of toxic masculinity and the difference in the rules in our society depending on gender. It's also a fun horror movie set in a remote, barren setting, that has some good old fashioned fun horror scenes. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Today's guest is a Minneapolis-based writer and director whose works include Rideshare, Lucid Dreams, See You Soon, and the acclaimed feature film, BLACK in Minneapolis. A recipient of the 2020 McKnight Media Artist Fellowship and a 2022 Catalyst Story Institute alum, he started his career in documentary filmmaking when he was 14 years old, with many of his stories revolving around social justice. At 15, he won the Screenlabs Challenge Audience Award at the Screenwriters' Workshop. At 20, he worked on his first commercial project, where he learned about the craft of lighting. Today, he continues to work as a creative director for his production company, We-Co Films, and more recently as the author of a debut novel, N57. It is my pleasure to introduce David J. Buchanan to the show. Find more information about the author at davidjbuchanan.com

In this episode of Supergirl Radio, Morgan Glennon and Rebecca Johnson discuss and review Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton (2025-) #4! Issue Description: Krypto has made a new friend—another stray—and together, the two of them are traveling across America. But they are not alone, for a monster from a distant world has come to Earth, and their two paths are now on a collision course. Krypto, with superpowers that are just coming in, must find a way to defend himself, his friend—and his planet. Watch the Live Stream Episode Links: Variety's Screenwriters to Watch for 2025 Kickstarter: Witching Season - A Witch Horror Comic Anthology You can find Supergirl Radio on: Social Media: Facebook – X – Instagram  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts – DC TV Podcasts - Multivese of Color - Spotify Playlist - iHeartRadio Support: DC TV Podcasts TeePublic Store – Patreon  

Watch the Best Scene Reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ew4yxfT2YUA Fiona Haegerbergh, a journalist for The Metro Standard, arrives in a rural Norwegian town to investigate rising drug use. Officially, she's there to produce a webcast— but Fiona has her own agenda: uncovering the truth behind the recent suspicious death of a local drug dealer. Fiona's editor urges her to stay on task, as much is riding on the Metro Standard's survival—now largely dependent on the recent success of its popular web series. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? My screenplay is about a journalist Fiona Haegerbergh, who travels to a remote Norwegian town to cover rising drug use for her paper's popular web series, but she's secretly investigating the suspicious death of a local dealer. She's met with hostility from townsfolk and a wary sheriff, but she gradually earns his reluctant trust as she digs into the community's hidden drug network. Her search leads to Jenny, a young mine worker with ties to Fiona's brother, who may have inherited the operation. When Jenny is suddenly found drowned, Fiona's investigation takes a darker turn and she is faced with a devastating choice: expose what she's uncovered and risk her own secret being revealed—or stay silent and let the town's shadows close in. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Thriller, Mystery Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? Because it has a good mystery, loveable characters and an unexpected twist. How would you describe this script in two words? Powerful forces Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

WGA-nominated writer, director and USC professor Ted Braun, and TV and film writer and exec. producer Melissa Rosenberg, joined me to talk about reimagining screenwriting education with the MFA in Screenwriting at Bennington College. Ted Braun is the Program's Director and the WGA-nominated writer and director of Darfur Now, Betting on Zero, and Viva Maestro. He is a Professor of Screenwriting and Joseph Campbell Endowed Chair of Cinematic Ethics at USC's School of Cinematic Arts and was named one of Variety's Top Ten Teachers in Film and TV in 2018. Melissa Rosenberg is a writer and executive producer known for Twilight, Jessica Jones, and a 1986 graduate of Bennington College, where she is now a Trustee. She helped create and showrun Jessica Jones and adapted the Twilight film series, while also serving as head writer for Dexter. Bennington College will admit just 12 gifted, driven writers—students who are serious about building a body of work and launching a professional screenwriting career—to their inaugural class of The MFA in Screenwriting. Braun notes, “We're looking for students with imagination and hunger—those who want to develop a foundation for a decades-long screenwriting career.” The MFA in Screenwriting at Bennington College prepares writers for a life as creative and professional leaders in the evolving landscape of film and television. This low-residency, two-year program combines the academic depth of a liberal arts education with the rigorous preparation needed for a career in screenwriting. Learn more at bennington.edu/screenwriting Applications are due by December 1st, 2025. [Discover ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Writer Files Extra⁠⁠⁠⁠: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at ⁠⁠⁠⁠writerfiles.fm⁠⁠⁠⁠] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please ⁠⁠⁠⁠click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews⁠⁠⁠⁠. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Ted Braun, Melissa Rosenberg and I discussed: How life as a screenwriter starts with material that is unique and alive to you A one-of-a-kind screenwriting MFA, a low-residency program that yields six major pieces of work for TV and film, and why it is “perfectly suited to our times” Bennington's legacy of influential writers Why we need strong, original cinematic voices now more than ever And a lot more! Show Notes: bennington.edu/screenwriting Ted Braun on IMDb Melissa Rosenberg on IMDb Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Moorer is a screenwriter whose path into Hollywood began with early experiments in short films and years of disciplined study. Starting out as a PA, he worked his way up while sharpening his craft through seminars, classes, and relentless writing. He quickly learned that screenwriting is more than just putting words on the page — it's also about understanding the business side of the industry and building credibility step by step. His philosophy is simple: every script, meeting, or assignment should “move the needle” toward progress, even if the rewards aren't immediate.What sets James apart is his focus on relationships and professionalism. He believes that a writer's reputation is as important as their work, and that openness to feedback separates amateurs from professionals. This approach helped him secure management with Purple Skull, not through cold queries, but through trust and collaboration. By embracing notes and staying consistent in both writing and networking, James shows that screenwriting success isn't about one big break, but about persistence, adaptability, and steady growth in the craft and the business.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

In this episode, Hilliard and co-host writer/prod/author James Moorer sit down with incomparable TV/Film writer/producer AKELA COOPER!There's almost two hours worth of game dropped and the last 30 mins of this super fun conversation was opened up to a group of writers sitting in the audience so that they could “Ask Us Anything!”Akela Cooper wrote M3GAN, produced by Universal, Blumhouse and James Wan/Atomic Monster and Akela is a credited writer on THE NUN 2 for New Line/Atomic Monster and wrote the film MALIGNANT, directed by James Wan, for WB/Atomic Monster. In 2021 Akela was named one of Variety's Top 10 Screenwriters to Watch.On the TV side, Akela has written on such projects as STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS (Paramount+), MAGIC ORDER (Netflix), Steve DeKnight's JUPITER'S LEGACY (Netflix), Marvel's LUKE CAGE (Netflix), Ryan Murphy's AMERICAN HORROR STORY (FX), and THE HUNDRED (CW) among others.SUBSCRIBE - like, follow, share & 5-star review!Our Motto: “Keep it GAME all day!"WWW.SCREENWRITERSRANTROOM.COMFor RESOURCES, MERCH (NEW T-SHIRTS/HOODIES), and all things Rant Room!https://screenwriters-rant-room.printify.me/productsEMAIL:ScreenwritersRantRoom@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@Hilliard Guess on all social media@Hilliardguess.bsky.socialIG: @ScreenwritersRantRoomGuests:@akelacooper@onemoorerWE ARE NOW OPEN TO SPONSORSHIPS AND BRANDING OPPORTUNITIES⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ :Screenwritersrantroom@gmail.comBTS: Chase "Zoom" Bell@z00m12