Ep 238 - Marc Guggenheim on Arrow and Crafting Iconic TV Pilots

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun, Best Selling Author of 'The Guide For Every Screenwriter'Guest: Chris Brennan, Screenwriter and Marketing ExpertSummary:In this episode, Geoffrey Calhoun welcomes Chris Brennan, a screenwriter and marketing expert, to discuss the intersection of screenwriting and marketing. Chris shares his journey from co-directing his first feature film to selling screenplays and building a career in marketing. He highlights the importance of screenwriters learning to market themselves and their projects effectively. Chris provides practical tips on mindset shifts, email marketing strategies, and networking techniques to help screenwriters build their careers and professional relationshipsTakeaways:Understanding the mindset of B2B marketing for screenwriters.The importance of adding value to professional relationships.Practical email marketing strategies and techniques.The significance of developing a nurturing approach in networking.Utilizing digital tools to maintain professional relationships.Chapters:00:08 - 00:21: Chris Brennan’s background and career in screenwriting and marketing.05:31 - 06:27: Practical tips on adding value in professional interactions.08:43 - 10:17: Using email marketing to build and maintain relationships.15:11 - 18:17: Developing relationships through value-added emails.21:09 - 25:27: Practical tips for making email marketing a daily habit.Follow Us:Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Instagram: @screenwriterpodWebsite: The Successful ScreenwriterChris Brennan:Website: Writing Chops#Screenwriting #ScreenwriterTips #MarketingForWriters #EmailMarketing #Networking #Filmmaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #ValueAdded #PersistenceInMarketing

Host: Geoffrey D. CalhounHost and Best Selling Author of 'The Guide For Every Screenwriter'Guest: Marc GuggenheimLegendary Showrunner of Arrow, Flash, and Legends of TomorrowSummary:In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun welcomes back legendary showrunner Marc Guggenheim to discuss his experience crafting some of the most iconic TV pilots of our time, including Arrow and The Flash. Marc shares insights into the unique challenges of creating a successful pilot, the importance of tone and casting, and the pivotal role of director David Nutter. They delve into the creative process behind Arrow, the evolution of its characters, and how Marc and his team navigated the complexities of producing a superhero show for a new generation.Takeaways:The crucial role of a talented pilot director and the impact of David Nutter on Arrow's success.The process of creating and maintaining tone, casting, and production value in a TV pilot.The development and evolution of Arrow's characters and story arcs.Insights into the unique challenges of producing superhero shows for television.The importance of empathy and understanding in the creative industry and beyond.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome05:37 - Challenges and Triumphs in Producing Arrow10:17 - Evolution of Arrow's Story and Characters15:48 - Aha Moments and Learning Curves20:21 - Thematic Consistency and Visual Storytelling22:46 - Marc's Message on Empathy and GraceFollow Us:Geoffrey D. Calhoun: Instagram - @screenwriterpodMarc Guggenheim: Marc's InstagramTags: Hashtags: #Screenwriting #TVProduction #Arrow #Flash #LegendsOfTomorrow #MarcGuggenheim #DavidNutter #EmpathyInStorytelling #Podcast #GeoffreyDCalhoun

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun, Best Selling Author of The Guide For Every ScreenwriterGuest: Rod Blackhurst, Director of "Blood for Dust"Summary:In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Rod Blackhurst, the talented director behind the gripping film "Blood for Dust." Starring Kit Harington, Scoot McNary, Josh Lucas, and Stephen Dorff, this crime thriller is set in 1993 and follows the journey of a traveling salesman.Rod shares his origin story, the process of bringing this film to life, and the incredible cast that made it all possible. They delve into the inspiration behind the film, the challenges faced during production, and the unique character portrayals that make "Blood for Dust" a must-watchTakeaways:Rod's journey from growing up without a TV to becoming a filmmaker.The collaborative process of writing "Blood for Dust" with David Ebeltoft.The significance of the film's 1993 setting and its impact on the story.Insights into the casting process and working with renowned actors.Tips for aspiring filmmakers on closing the gap between vision and execution.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome00:22 - Rod's Background and Inspiration01:23 - Development and Writing of "Blood for Dust"02:35 - Working with Scoot McNary08:28 - Kit Harington's Villainous Role12:20 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers19:02 - Distribution Plans for "Blood for Dust"20:47 - Closing Thoughts and GratitudeFollow Us:Geoffrey D. Calhoun: @screenwriterpod on InstagramRod Blackhurst: Rod's Instagram#BloodForDust #RodBlackhurst #KitHarington #ScootMcNary #CrimeThriller #Filmmaking #Screenwriting #IndependentFilm #MovieDirector #ScreenwriterPod

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun, Host and Best-Selling Author of The Guide For Every ScreenwriterGuest: EriksenDickens, Documentarian FilmmakerSummary:In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Eriksen Dickens, a documentarian filmmaker specializing in legacy documentaries. Eriksen shares his unique journey into filmmaking, the inspiration behind legacy documentaries, and the intricate process of creating these heartfelt films. They discuss the importance of preserving personal histories and the impact these documentaries can have on families and future generations. Eriksen also delves into the challenges of honoring someone's life while telling a compelling story and the meticulous pre-production work required for these projects.Takeaways:The inspiration behind Eriksen's focus on legacy documentaries.The detailed pre-production process for creating a legacy documentary.The significance of preserving personal and family histories.The challenges and rewards of capturing a person's life story on film.Insights into the potential growth and future of legacy documentaries.Chapters:[00:38] - Introduction to EriksenDickens[01:13] - Eriksen's Origin Story in Filmmaking[03:59] - The Process of Creating a Legacy Documentary[06:09] - Distribution and Usage of Legacy Documentaries[09:18] - Expanding the Reach and Impact of Legacy DocumentariesFollow Us:Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Instagram: @screenwriterpodWebsite: The Successful ScreenwriterErickson Dickens:Website: Platinum PeakDocumentary Brand: Dickens BrothersInstagram: Platinum Peak#Screenwriting #Filmmaking #LegacyDocumentaries #PersonalHistory #DocumentaryFilmmaking #Storytelling #EriksenDickens #GeoffreyDCalhoun #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun, Host and BEst Selling Author of The Guide For Every ScreenwriterGuest: Victoria Male, Nichols Finalist for her script 'Showstopper'SummaryIn this podcast episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun interviews Victoria Male, a Nichols finalist for her script Showstopper. Victoria shares her origin story, starting with her passion for theater and acting, and how she eventually fell in love with screenwriting. She discusses the process of writing Showstopper and the unexpected attention it received, including becoming a Nichols finalist. Victoria also mentions her recent success with another script called Sculpted. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of authenticity, relationship building, and staying true to one's vision.TakeawaysVictoria Male's journey as a screenwriter began with a background in theater and acting, which eventually led her to discover her love for screenwriting.She wrote Showstopper, a script inspired by the idea of making Singin' in the Rain during the Red Scare, and it gained attention, including becoming a Nichols finalist.Victoria's experience working in the film industry, including interning for Tobey Maguire and working for Ivan Reitman, provided valuable insights into the development and storytelling process.She also discussed her recent success with another script called Sculpted, which explores the gender-flipped adaptation of the Greek myth of Pygmalion.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Origin Story06:15 Transition to Screenwriting14:08 The Journey of ShowstopperFolllow us at:Victoria Male Instagram: @victoriamale1Geoffrey's Instagram: @screenwriterpodSubscribe to our podcast for more insider insights.

Episode Overview:Join host Geoffrey D. Calhoun as he delves into the world of social media authenticity with Megha Bajaj, a former reality TV star turned social media influencer. Discover Megha's journey from television to becoming an Instagram icon, and how she leverages her platform for genuine engagement.Host: Geoffrey D. CalhounBio: Geoffrey is a seasoned screenwriter and mentor with a  passion for storytelling, Geoffrey explores the intersections of creativity and industry trends with experts and influencers in the field.Guest: Megha BajajBio: Megha Bajaj is a prominent social media influencer with a rich background in acting and modeling in India. Known for her authentic content and strategic use of platforms like Instagram, Megha shares her unique approach to personal branding and how it transcends traditional social media strategies.Episode Highlights:Introduction to Megha Bajaj (00:00 - 00:14)Geoffrey welcomes Megha to the podcast and introduces her background.Megha's Transition from Reality TV to Social Media (00:15 - 01:59)Discussion on Megha's early career in India, her initial reluctance towards Instagram, and her eventual engagement with the platform.Building a Social Media Presence Through Storytelling (02:00 - 03:15)Megha emphasizes storytelling as the core of her social media success.Navigating Brand Collaborations with Authenticity (03:16 - 05:32)Insights into Megha's selective approach to brand partnerships and maintaining integrity in promotions.The Role of Social Media in Personal and Professional Growth (05:33 - 07:53)How Megha uses her influence to explore new cultures, connect with brands globally, and stay true to her roots.Q&A: Authenticity and Brand Alignment (07:54 - 09:41)Discussion on the importance of aligning with brands that resonate personally and professionally.Follow us on Instagram for more updates and behind-the-scenes content @screenwriterpodVisit our website for free screenwriting resources and to join our community: The Successful Screenwriter

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun (Instagram: @screenwriterpod) Author of The Guide For Every ScreenwriterGuest: Marc Guggenheim has served as a writer, producer, and showrunner for several popular TV series. He is best known for his work on "Arrow" and "Legends of Tomorrow," part of The CW's DC Comics television universe and Carnival Row. His latest book In Any Lifetime is Available Aug 1'st 2024Episode Overview:In this inspiring episode of The Successful Screenwriter podcast, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with the multi-talented writer and producer, Marc Guggenheim. Known for his diverse work spanning TV, comics, and now novels, Marc discusses his latest venture, the novel In Any Lifetime, and his creative process across different media. Join us as Marc shares insights into the challenges and joys of storytelling, regardless of the format.Key Points Discussed:Introduction to Marc Guggenheim:Background in comics, TV, and now novels.New book release: In Any Lifetime.Transitioning from Screenplays to Novels:Marc’s journey from considering In Any Lifetime as a screenplay and a graphic novel, to finally writing it as a prose novel during the pandemic.The discovery of his love for writing prose and the realization that the story was meant to be a book.Deep Dive into In Any Lifetime:The novel's concept revolves around a physicist navigating multiple universes to reunite with his deceased wife, exploring the theory that the multiverse favors certain outcomes.Marc describes the book as a mix of thriller, adventure, and romance, likening it to "Christopher Nolan directing The Notebook".Creative Process and Story Structure:Marc's approach to outlining stories, balancing structure with spontaneous creativity.The significance of aligning emotional points in the story and how these influence the narrative’s impact.Themes and Writing Philosophy:Exploration of the theme: "Is it possible to love someone too much?"Marc’s preference for raising questions rather than providing answers, aiming to engage readers in a deeper contemplation of the themes.Future Prospects and Adaptations:Potential for In Any Lifetime to be adapted into other media, including film or television.Marc’s openness to adaptation and his perspective on the importance of storytelling across various forms.Conclusion:Marc Guggenheim’s insights provide a valuable lesson in versatility and the art of storytelling. His dedication to crafting meaningful and compelling narratives, regardless of the medium, continues to inspire writers and creatives across the industry.Call to Action:Don’t miss out on the riveting journey through love, loss, and the laws of the universe in Marc Guggenheim’s In Any Lifetime. Available for purchase on Amazon, in independent bookstores, and on Audible.Subscribe to our podcast for more insider insights.Follow me on Instagram @screenwriterpod

Hosted by: Geoffrey D. Calhoun, known for his dedication to educating and uplifting writers through The Successful Screenwriter Podcast. Geoffrey, has been deeply influenced by foundational texts in screenwriting and aims to honor the legacy of screenwriting legends through his work.Guest: Viki King, author of "How to Write a Movie in 21 Days," which is heralded as a cornerstone in screenwriting literature. Viki, the "mother of content" in screenwriting circles, brings an intuitive and heart-centered approach to storytelling, shaping the narratives of countless writers over her illustrious career.Episode Overview:In this episode, Geoffrey and Viki engage in a deep dive into the core of screenwriting, discussing the spiritual journey of storytelling, the impact of seminal screenwriting texts, and the process of turning a spark of an idea into a compelling screenplay. This conversation offers invaluable insights into creating stories that resonate on a personal and universal level.Key Moments:Geoffrey Calhoun expresses his admiration for Viki King's work and its foundational impact on his screenwriting career.Viki King reflects on the early days of screenwriting education and her collaboration with Syd Field, emphasizing the complementary nature of their contributions to the craft.Viki praises Geoffrey's book for demystifying screenwriting, highlighting its practicality and the importance of format in storytelling.Geoffrey shares his personal journey with screenwriting, marked by dyslexia and the profound influence of Viki's book.Viki discusses the genesis of her book "How to Write a Movie in 21 Days" and the importance of staying true to one's heart in the creative process.The conversation turns to the evolving nature of screenwriting and the need for originality in an industry saturated with sequels and remakes.Geoffrey and Viki explore the concept of the "inner movie method," a personal journey of discovery through screenwriting.Notable Quotes:"The deal is we all come in and we all have a piece of the puzzle. And it's our business to put the piece of the puzzle in the big picture. Otherwise, there's a hole in the picture. But we don't have to know who's looking at the picture. That's not part of the business. It takes everything you've got just to put your piece in." - Viki King"I view what I do as part of my own personal growth. And to see someone like yourself who was a trailblazer kind of evolve through this industry is absolutely, inspirational." - Geoffrey CalhounClosing Thoughts:This episode not only sheds light on the mechanics of screenwriting but also delves into the soulful aspects of the craft, encouraging writers to explore and express their deepest truths through storytelling. Viki King's perspective on writing as a journey of personal discovery and Geoffrey Calhoun's dedication to empowering screenwriters make for a compelling and profoundly inspirational discussion.Connect with Us:Listen to more episodes: The Successful Screenwriter PodcastFollow Geoffrey D. Calhoun on Instagramr: @ScreenwriterpodDiscover Viki King's work: How to Write a Movie in 21 Days

Host: Geoffrey D. CalhounGuest: Brock Heasley, Writer and Director of "The Shift"Episode Overview: In this compelling episode of "The Successful Screenwriter" podcast, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Brock Heasley, the creative mind behind the buzz-worthy film, "The Shift." A project that started from a small blog post during the MySpace era, "The Shift" has grown into a full-fledged cinematic experience, gaining traction across major social media platforms and starring renowned actors like Neil McDonald, Sean Astin, and John Billingsley.Key Topics Discussed:The Genesis of "The Shift": Brock shares the journey from a blog post to a feature film, highlighting the role of social media in its early promotion.Transition into Filmmaking: Brock recounts his pivot from a graphic design career to filmmaking, influenced by a lifelong passion for movies and a significant job loss.Collaboration with Angel Studios: The unique crowdfunding and guild-member decision-making process at Angel Studios that brought "The Shift" to a wider audience.Design and Casting Insights: Insights into the design process for the movie's iconic "Lancers" and the strategic casting choices that elevated the film.The Renaissance of Faith-Based Films: A discussion on the evolving landscape of faith-based cinema, emphasizing higher production values and a broader appeal.The Core Message of "The Shift": An exploration of the film's thematic focus on suffering, hope, and unexpected outcomes, grounded in personal experiences of loss and resilience.Watch "The Shift" on various platforms including Angel Studios' app, YouTube, Google Play, Amazon, Apple, and Voodoo to experience the multifaceted journey of its protagonist and the innovative storytelling that Brock Heasley brings to the screen.Subscribe for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the screenwriting and filmmaking industry.Conclusion:"The Shift" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, resilience in the face of adversity, and the collaborative spirit of indie filmmaking. Brock Heasley's journey from a graphic designer to a celebrated filmmaker offers inspiration to aspiring screenwriters and directors, proving that with passion, creativity, and a bit of faith, anything is possible in the cinematic world.

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