Aspiring Hollywood

Can you read a screenplay like a producer? There's a difference between reading a screenplay and understanding what it will take to turn those pages into a finished motion picture. After more than 30 years in the independent film business, I've learned that it's important to approach a screenplay from two perspectives: first, as an audience member experiencing the story, and then as a producer eva...

After more than 30 years in the independent film business, Luc Saber shares the lessons he’s learned about pursuing a dream, overcoming setbacks, dealing with rejection, and defining success on your own terms. From financing and producing his first feature film to winning awards, securing distribution, and experiencing the unpredictable ups and downs of Hollywood, Luc offers an honest look at the...

Sometimes the hardest part of making a film isn't writing the screenplay. It's deciding which story to tell in the first place. In this episode of Aspiring Hollywood , I share a real experience from my years in the independent film business. I had just finished one film when I was given the opportunity to make another—but I had less than four weeks to come up with the story. I had several complete...

How To Write A Screenplay For Film Buyers Writing a screenplay isn't only about telling a compelling story. If you want to get a film made, I believe it’s also important to understand how production companies, distributors, sales agents, and film buyers may look at a project. In this episode of Aspiring Hollywood , I draw on more than 30 years of experience in the independent film business to disc...

Pre-Development vs. Development: What's the Difference? When you're trying to get an independent film made, pre-development and development aren't necessarily the same thing. In this episode of Aspiring Hollywood , Luc Saber discusses the distinction between the two stages and why doing the groundwork before moving too far into development can save time, money, and frustration. Pre-development is...

Independent Filmmaking: Then vs. Now — Is It Easier to Make Movies in 2026? Technology has revolutionized independent filmmaking—but has it actually made it easier to succeed? In this episode, Luc Saber looks back at the indie film revolution of the 1990s, compares the challenges of shooting on 35mm with today's digital and AI-powered tools, and explains why getting your movie noticed may be harde...

This episode is designed for aspiring screenwriters who are eager to transition from screenwriting to producing. It caters to those who prefer taking charge of their filmmaking careers rather than waiting for someone else to approve their projects. The episode delves into the distinction between literary agents and managers, and it explores the traditional option of producing a screenplay versus t...

This episode explores the impact of artificial intelligence on the film industry.

In this episode, we take a look at the style and substance of movies from the 80s & 90s, breaking down the story of "Tequila Sunrise."

Information on the elements of writing a three-act screenplay and developing the protagonist. This episode is for aspiring screenwriters and anyone who has a desire to write a feature film screenplay.

This episode focuses on how to start writing a screenplay, for beginners and aspiring writers.

Chris Piorkowski is a music composer, professor, and author. In this interview, Chris talks about the process of scoring a feature film.

Discussion regarding alternate sources of inspiration for writers.

A few weeks ago I found out that an old friend and former colleague from a previous career released his latest novel “One Part Death.” Happy to say that he’s a talented writer with a true gift for storytelling. Check out my interview with retired CIA Case Officer, Chief of Station and novelist James G. Davidson.