The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Logline: When smart but cash-strapped teen Ellie Chu agrees to write a love letter for a jock, she doesn't expect to become his friend - or fall for his crush. Available on Netflix. Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Kristy Leigh Lussier, Film Analyst Episode Overview Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier analyze the film "The Half of It," exploring its narrative structure, thematic elements,...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: David J. Schow, Screenwriter of 'The Crow' Episode Overview In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews David J. Schow, the screenwriter behind the cult classic film 'The Crow'. They discuss the creative process, challenges, and experiences of developing and co-writing this iconic movie. This episode offers a deep dive into the world of adapting comic books int...

Logline: A long time ago in a distant fairy tale countryside, a young girl leads her little brother into a dark wood in desperate search of food and work, only to stumble upon a nexus of terrifying evil. This film is available on Hulu and Netflix. Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Kristy Leigh Lussier, Story Expert Episode Overview In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier provi...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Neil Chase, Screenwriter and Actor Episode Overview Geoffrey D. Calhoun discusses with Neil Chase the crucial aspect of rewriting a screenplay on set during production. The conversation delves into the pressures and challenges faced while making real-time changes to a script, providing valuable insights for screenwriters and filmmakers. Key Discussion Points The Ar...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Maureen O'Connell, Irish Filmmaker Episode Overview In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Irish filmmaker Maureen O'Connell delve into the art of guerilla filmmaking. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of producing professional quality films on a minimal budget in Ireland, providing invaluable insights for indie filmmakers. Key Discussion Points The Essenc...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Nadira Azermai, CEO of ScriptBook Episode Overview In this insightful episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun talks with Nadira Azermai about ScriptBook's unique AI software for screenplay analysis. They explore the capabilities of artificial intelligence in analyzing and predicting the success of screenplays, and its potential impact on the film industry. Key Discussion Poin...

Host: Jess Paul, Actor and Influencer Guest: Geoffrey D. Calhoun, Screenwriter, Best Selling Auythor of The Guide For Every Screenwriter Episode Overview This episode turns the spotlight on host Geoffrey D. Calhoun, delving into his insights on the screenwriting process and the film industry. It's a reflective discussion on the art and craft of screenwriting, including tips for navigating the indu...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Brian Trenchard-Smith, Veteran B Movie Director Episode Overview Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews the legendary B Movie director Brian Trenchard-Smith. They discuss Brian's new autobiography "Adventures in the B Movie Trade" and explore his experiences on set of various cult classic films. The episode offers a rare glimpse into the world of B Movie filmmaking and its...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Bill Watterson, Director and Co-Writer of 'Dave Made a Maze' Episode Overview This episode features Geoffrey D. Calhoun in conversation with Bill Watterson, discussing the creative process behind the making of 'Dave Made a Maze'. They delve into the unique challenges and triumphs of directing and co-writing this innovative film, offering valuable insights for filmm...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guests: Brian Austin and Scott Foster, Founders of ScriptHop Episode Overview In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun engages with Brian Austin and Scott Foster, the innovators behind ScriptHop. They discuss the development of ScriptHop's Interactive System, a novel tool designed to revolutionize the way screenplays are pitched and marketed. This episode is a treasure trove...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Damien Swaby, Producer and Host of Filmmaking Conversations Podcast Episode Overview Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews Damien Swaby, an experienced indie filmmaker and podcast host. They discuss practical approaches for indie writers to engage with producers, what producers seek in a screenplay, and the challenges of vanity projects in filmmaking. This episode is a va...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Linda Seger, Screenwriting Consultant and Author Episode Overview In this enlightening episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews Linda Seger, a legendary figure in screenwriting coaching. They explore the transformative journey of turning a good script into a great one. Linda shares her expertise on the essential elements of screenwriting, including character develop...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Michal Aviram, Screenwriter of 'Fauda' Episode Overview This episode features a dialogue with Michal Aviram, acclaimed screenwriter of 'Fauda', a hit series on Netflix. They discuss the development process of the series, offering insights into writing for international audiences and the intricacies of creating a gripping drama. Key Discussion Points Crafting a Glob...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Lucy V. Hay, Screenwriting Guru and Author Episode Overview Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews renowned screenwriting expert Lucy V. Hay, focusing on the art of writing and selling drama screenplays. They explore the differences between genre and drama screenplays and discuss effective strategies for achieving success in the drama genre. This episode is a valuable reso...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: CJ Walley, Founder of Script Revolution Episode Overview In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun talks with CJ Walley, the founder of Script Revolution, about the innovative platform that offers screenwriters a free way to list and have their scripts read and rated. The discussion is essential for writers seeking to gain exposure in the competitive world of screenwrit...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Jeffrey Reddick, Screenwriter of Final Destination Episode Overview In this fascinating episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews Jeffrey Reddick, the creative mind behind the iconic horror franchise 'Final Destination'. They delve into the process of developing an original concept that has the potential to evolve into a successful film series. This discussion is a g...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Craig James (Founder) and Molly Kasch (Director of Operations, ISA)Episode Overview In this episode, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews Craig James and Molly Kasch from the International Screenwriters Association (ISA). They discuss how screenwriters can effectively utilize the ISA platform to enhance their careers. Topics include networking, gaining exposure for...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Actor/Screenwriter Jordon Hodges & Writer/Director Chris Faulisi Episode Overview: In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun discusses the intricacies of screenwriting and directing indie films with Jordon Hodges and Chris Faulisi. Centered around their drama set in 1987, 'The Shade Shepherd', they delve into the challenges and triumphs of creating a period film. Th...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Tom Dever, an expert associated with Coverfly, a platform known for advancing the careers of screenwriters Episode Overview: In this episode, Tom Dever discusses the benefits of using Coverfly for screenwriters and offers insights on how to get featured on The Red List, a prestigious ranking of scripts on the platform. Key Discussion Points: Understanding Coverfly...

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Vincent M. Ward, a seasoned actor known for his roles in The Walking Dead. Overview: Vincent M. Ward delves into his experiences as an actor, offering unique insights for screenwriters and filmmakers on crafting compelling characters and narratives that resonate with actors. Discussion Highlights:Acting Meets Screenwriting: Vincent's perspectives on reading and int...

Introduction: Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Dave Trottier, author of "The Screenwriter's Bible" Overview: Mastering screenplay format to impress producers and readers. Discussion Highlights: Importance of Proper Formatting: The role of format in making a screenplay stand out. Dave Trottier's Formatting Tips: Expert advice from the author of "The Screenwriter's Bible." Common Formatting Mistakes...

Introduction: Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Chris Cookson, Head Writer at InkTip Overview: Utilizing InkTip's platform for getting your screenplay noticed and optioned by producers. Discussion Highlights: Understanding InkTip: Overview of InkTip's services for screenwriters. Optimizing Your Script's Presence: Strategies for making your script stand out on InkTip. Connecting with Producers: Tips...

Introduction: Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Jennifer Gentner, Emmy Award-Winning Producer and Director of the Detroit 48-Hour Film Fest Overview: Exploring the benefits and challenges of participating in a 48-hour film festival as a screenwriter. Discussion Highlights: 48-Hour Film Festival Dynamics: The unique structure and rules of a 48-hour film fest. Screenwriter’s Role and Strategy: How sc...

Introduction: Live from Script Summit 2020 Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Kevin Hanna, Staff Writer at wefixyourscript.com Overview: Effective techniques for giving and receiving script notes. Discussion Highlights: Fundamentals of Giving Notes: Best practices for providing constructive feedback. Receiving Feedback Graciously: How to use feedback to improve your screenplay. Community Questions A...

Introduction:Live at Script Summit 2020 Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun Guest: Ryan LaPlante, authority on writing antagonists Overview: Deep dive into creating compelling villains for screenplays. Discussion Highlights: The Art of the Antagonist: Key elements of a strong antagonist. Ryan LaPlante's Five Keys: His personal approach to villain creation. Villains in Interactive Content: How to write antag...