EP 268 - Inside the making of Yellowjackets with Director Ben Semanoff

In this powerful episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey sits down with Emmy-winning writer and producer Ron Leshem, the mind behind HBO’s Euphoria and Netflix’s new breakout series Bad Boy. Ron shares the incredible 7-year journey it took to bring Euphoria to the U.S., how Hollywood gatekeepers resist originality, and the creative freedom he found working internationally. This is one of the most inspiring episodes yet — especially for writers navigating today’s cautious industry climate.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Euphoria was rejected by every major U.S. networkHow to stay obsessed with your story when the industry keeps saying noThe difference between international and Hollywood storytellingWhy now is the time to write what only you can writeHow Bad Boy evolved from a real story into a global hitKey Moments:00:00 – Ron Leshem joins the show and reflects on adapting Euphoria for HBO01:05 – The 7-year uphill battle to sell Euphoria in the U.S.06:53 – From Israeli prison journalism to the creation of Bad Boy10:45 – Revealing the real story behind the main character of Bad Boy12:01 – Ron’s unfiltered advice for writers in today’s Hollywood17:58 – Why solitude and leadership both define the modern showrunnerAbout the Guest:Ron Leshem is an Emmy-winning writer and producer best known for co-creating Euphoria. A pioneer in adapting international hits for American audiences, his new series Bad Boy is currently streaming worldwide on Netflix. Ron brings a global perspective and fearless storytelling style that sets him apart in today’s TV landscape.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Bad Boy on NetflixEuphoria on HBOConnect with the Guest:🔗 Ron Leshem on IMDb Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:🌐 The Successful Screenwriter Website📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod🎬 TikTok: @screenwriterpodLike what you hear? Follow the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow writer who needs a reminder that perseverance pays off.#ScreenwritingTips #Euphoria #BadBoyNetflix #RonLeshem #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

This is one of my lost episodes—an incredible deep-dive with writer-director Travis Malloy, known for the cult sci-fi hits Pandorum and Infinity Chamber. We explore how he went from indie shoots in Minneapolis to selling a film in Hollywood, building sets in his garage, and writing stories that studios actually wanted. Travis shares the gritty truth behind low-budget filmmaking, working without a script, and learning to trust his artistic gut. This one’s packed with hard-earned lessons every screenwriter and indie filmmaker should hear.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Travis sold his first indie film and broke into the studio systemThe origin and evolution of Pandorum from a shelved ideaHow Infinity Chamber was made with no crew, no money—and a ton of gritThe danger of chasing trends vs. writing what lights you upWhy limitations can unlock creativity on a contained sci-fi filmKey Moments:(01:01) From Minneapolis to Hollywood: Travis’s breakout moment(04:08) Turning a failed script into Pandorum(09:04) Building Infinity Chamber before writing it(20:26) Cutting a twist to strengthen emotional impact(35:34) Advice to indie filmmakers: stop waiting, start shootingAbout the Guest:Travis Malloy is the writer-director of Pandorum (starring Ben Foster and Dennis Quaid) and the mind behind the cult hit Infinity Chamber. With deep experience in both studio writing and garage-level indie filmmaking, Travis brings a rare and inspiring perspective to the craft.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Pandorum (2009)Infinity Chamber (2016) Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodLike what you heard? Share the show with a fellow filmmaker, leave a review, and follow for more behind-the-scenes insight into screenwriting and indie filmmaking.#TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #TravisMalloy #Pandorum #InfinityChamber #IndieFilm #SciFiFilmmaking #ScreenwritingPodcast #DIYFilmmaking #GeoffreyDCalhoun

Geoffrey sits down with the creative team behind the Slamdance hit Race Walkers: a fresh, hilarious sports comedy about the underdog world of race walking. Directors Kevin Claydon and Phil Moniz, writer-producer Evan Landry, and actor-writers Kevin and Phil share how the film came to life, how Robbie Amell joined the cast, and why comedy in indie film is making a comeback. It’s an inspiring deep dive into how tight scripts, tight friendships, and bold concepts can create magic on screen.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to build a film concept from the ground up with friendsWhy sports comedies are ready for a resurgenceThe value of staying within your budget and scope as a filmmakerHow Robbie Amell helped fast-track Race WalkersTips for keeping authenticity when satirizing niche sportsKey Moments:(01:06) How the Race Walkers team formed and the concept came to life(03:40) Why race walking was a perfect, untapped sports comedy concept(05:10) How Robbie Amell and Collective Pictures got involved(08:15) Plans for distribution and why comedies belong in theaters(12:00) Advice to indie screenwriters on writing within their meansAbout the Guests:Kevin Claydon and Phil Moniz are actor-directors and longtime collaborators behind Race Walkers.Evan Landry is a screenwriter and producer on the film. The trio has been creating content together since their 20s.Race Walkers stars Robbie Amell and has been gaining acclaim on the festival circuit for its sharp writing and lovable absurdity.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Race WalkersSlamdance Film FestivalRobbie Amell on IMDbConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodIf you loved this behind-the-scenes look at indie filmmaking, give us a review, share the episode, and follow the show for more insider conversations with today’s rising creatives.#RaceWalkersMovie #Slamdance2025 #IndieFilm #ScreenwritingTips #FilmmakingAdvice #ComedyComeback #GeoffreyDCalhoun #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #RobbieAmell

In this powerful episode, writer-director Evan Ari Kelman joins Geoffrey to discuss his feature debut Barron’s Cove, a gripping thriller that dives into the aftermath of a child's death and the generational trauma left behind. Evan breaks down how real-life inspiration, personal loss, and years of screenwriting study culminated in this bold indie film. From battling Catch-22 casting challenges to landing major talent like Garrett Hedlund and Steven Lang, Evan shares what it really takes to make your first feature — and why sometimes, you just have to write it yourself.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How personal experience shaped the themes of Barron’s CoveTips for breaking through with your first feature filmThe truth about casting name talent as a first-time directorScreenwriting resources and tools that made a differenceWhy submitting to the Nicholl Fellowship can still open doorsKey Moments:00:00 – Geoffrey introduces Evan Ari Kelman and Barron’s Cove00:43 – The inspiration behind the film’s dark, emotional premise05:48 – Lessons learned from developing Evan’s first feature script13:11 – How Evan cast major stars and overcame industry obstacles17:56 – Advice for new filmmakers ready to make their first feature20:04 – How being a Nicholl semifinalist led to production supportAbout the Guest:Evan Ari Kelman is a writer and director whose feature debut Barron’s Cove explores grief, justice, and the scars of generational trauma. A graduate of NYU’s film program, Evan has written and directed multiple award-winning shorts. His work blends grounded emotion with high-stakes storytelling, aiming to challenge audiences while remaining deeply personal. Barron’s Cove premieres June 6 in select theaters and on VOD.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Connect with the Guest:📸 Instagram: @EvKelm🎥 Barron’s Cove releases June 6 in select theaters and on VODConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun: 🌐 The Successful Screenwriter Podcast Website📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod🎵 TikTok: @screenwriterpodEnjoyed the episode? Like, share, and subscribe to The Successful Screenwriter! Comment your thoughts on our IG!#BarronsCove #ScreenwritingTips #IndieFilm #EvanAriKelman #FilmPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #GeoffreyDCalhoun #NichollFellowship #FilmmakingAdvice #WritingThroughTrauma

In this powerful episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with acclaimed Dominican filmmaker Jose Maria Cabral to explore his groundbreaking hybrid documentary 42nd Street. The film showcases a grassroots art and music movement born out of the Capotillo neighborhood—a community stigmatized by violence but transformed through relentless creativity and self-expression. From razor blade dances to government crackdowns, this episode dives into the story of a 24/7 street party that became a symbol of survival and resistance.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How 42nd Street captures a real-time cultural revolution in CapotilloThe power of art as survival in marginalized communitiesWhy Jose lived in Capotillo during the writing of the filmHow to approach hybrid documentaries with both realism and careJose’s advice for aspiring documentariansKey Moments:00:28 – Geoffrey welcomes Jose Maria Cabral to the podcast01:08 – The origins of the 42nd Street movement and its defiance of government control05:11 – The razor blade dance and its symbolism of survival09:49 – How creating the documentary changed Jose personally and creatively14:22 – Jose’s unique tip: filming a “research documentary” before productionAbout the Guest:Jose Maria Cabral is an award-winning Dominican filmmaker known for his bold storytelling and social commentary. His latest hybrid documentary 42nd Street has received multiple screenings at South by Southwest, highlighting a vibrant underground movement in Capotillo. Jose’s commitment to authenticity and immersive filmmaking continues to shine a light on unheard voices.About the Host:With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:42nd Street DocumentaryThe Guide for Every ScreenwriterConnect with the Guest:Instagram – @josemariacabralIMDb – Jose Maria CabralConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodEnjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe! Share this with a filmmaker or screenwriter who needs to hear Jose’s incredible story of art through adversity.#42ndStreetFilm #JoseMariaCabral #Capotillo #SXSW2025 #HybridDocumentary #ScreenwritingPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #GeoffreyDCalhoun #IndieFilm #DocLife #StreetArt #CreativeResistance #PartyThatNeverStops

Geoffrey sits down with director Jeff Hupp and assistant directors Brian Cusac and Merritt Fritchie, the creative team behind the indie comedy Band on the Run. They share how they turned a pandemic-era script into a completed feature film—shot in just eight days. From grassroots funding to casting Detroit talent and landing distribution, this episode is a masterclass in passion-driven filmmaking.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to fund your indie film through professional connectionsWhy a tight script is key to fast-paced productionsWhat makes a multi-director team actually workHow Detroit’s creative community rallied behind the projectThe honest truth about indie film distributionKey Moments:00:30 – The script that started it all02:45 – Securing funding through local connections05:24 – First reactions to reading the script06:01 – Shooting a feature in just 8 days07:16 – Casting Larry Bagby and local Detroit talent09:14 – Community support and free locations11:34 – Directing as a team of three15:27 – Why they chose Freestyle Digital Media for distribution17:29 – Navigating QC and post-production headaches20:00 – Teasing their next film set on Mackinac Island About the Guests:Jeff Hupp is the writer and director of Band on the Run. Brian Cusac and Merritt Fritchie served as assistant directors and longtime creative collaborators. With deep experience in advertising and a shared love of music and film, the trio brought their vision to life through teamwork, local support, and relentless passion.About the Host:With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Band on the Run Official WebsiteFollow @bandontherunmovie on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTokConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodEnjoyed the episode? Like, share, review, and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes filmmaking stories and screenwriting insights. #BandOnTheRunMovie #IndieFilm #ScreenwritingPodcast #DetroitFilm #BehindTheScenes #GeoffreyDCalhoun #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #IndieFilmmaking #FilmmakerLife

In this powerhouse episode, Smokin’ Aces, Narc, and The Grey director Joe Carnahan joins Geoffrey to talk shop. From making Boss Level—his personal “Raiders”—to breaking down his new film Shadow Force, Joe shares unfiltered insight into filmmaking, casting across cultures, and why fun on set brings out the best work. This one’s packed with wisdom and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Boss Level became Joe’s most personal filmWhat inspired Shadow Force and how it came togetherJoe’s perspective on diversity, identity, and creative freedomThe importance of joy and collaboration on setHis advice to young filmmakers in today’s industryKey Moments:02:05 – Joe discusses the emotional weight behind Boss Level02:17 – The making of Shadow Force and working with a diverse cast06:07 – Joe and Geoffrey reflect on working across demographics with respect10:17 – Why joy on set creates better work13:04 – Assembling the cast for Shadow Force15:26 – A candid discussion about Detroit, tax incentives, and lost opportunities17:12 – Joe’s no-nonsense advice to aspiring filmmakersAbout the Guest: Joe Carnahan is a writer/director known for bold, high-impact films like Smokin’ Aces, Narc, The Grey, and Boss Level. Known for his fearless storytelling and energetic direction, Carnahan brings heart and grit to everything he touches.About the Host: With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching others to succeed in the industry.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Boss Level (Hulu)Shadow Force (Lionsgate – Theatrical release May 9, 2025)The Guide for Every Screenwriter by Geoffrey D. CalhounConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodYouTube @thesuccessfulscreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Want to take your screenwriting to the next level?Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com and become a member today!#JoeCarnahan #BossLevel #ShadowForce #SmokinAces #ScreenwritingPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #GeoffreyDCalhoun #FilmmakingTips #IndieFilm #HollywoodDirector #PodcastInterview

This week, we welcome the talented Ben Semanoff to the show. Ben has directed episodes of Yellowjackets, Ozark, and Tulsa King and even appeared in Stranger Things. We dive into his incredible experience directing the unforgettable "Edible Complex" episode of Yellowjackets, his return for season three, and his approach to adapting across genres. Ben also shares an inspiring look into his journey from camera operator to director and offers invaluable advice for aspiring filmmakers.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Ben directed one of the most talked-about episodes of YellowjacketsBehind-the-scenes challenges of shooting intense scenes with practical effectsAdapting to different styles when directing across multiple hit showsWhy understanding the "language" of filmmaking is essentialPractical advice for building a career in the film industryKey Moments:(00:00) Geoffrey welcomes Ben Seminoff to the show(01:13) Breaking down the intense "Edible Complex" episode of Yellowjackets(05:55) Transitioning into Season Three and working with Hilary Swank(08:31) How Ben adapts his directing style across Yellowjackets, Ozark, and Tulsa King(14:30) What is next for Ben Seminoff, including Black Rabbit on NetflixAbout the Guest: Ben Semanoff is an accomplished director and former camera operator known for his work on hit series like Yellowjackets, Ozark, Tulsa King, and Stranger Things. With over 25 years in the industry, Ben brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and artistry to every project he touches.About the Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, best-selling author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. With films airing on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey is passionate about helping screenwriters build lasting careers.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Yellowjackets Season 3Black Rabbit (coming to Netflix)Severance on Apple TV+Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodIf you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave a review. Every bit helps spread the word and supports more amazing conversations like this. Stay inspired and keep writing!Hashtags: #Screenwriting #PodcastInterview #Yellowjackets #Ozark #TulsaKing #BlackRabbit #FilmDirecting #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

Frank Monteleone, winner of Best TV Pilot at Script Summit 2022, joins Geoffrey to share how that win lit a fire under his career. From scoring high on The Black List to attaching IP and navigating the WGA strike, Frank’s story is a masterclass in strategy, persistence, and smart networking.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why winning Script Summit was a turning point for FrankHow Frank “broke” The Black List with high scores and free evalsAttaching IP to elevate your spec scriptThe smart way to revise and polish a winning pilotWhy networking (and Twitter) still matters in 2025Key Moments:01:33 – How Script Summit and a Twitter post attracted producers04:58 – Frank’s high Black List scores (and how he scored free evals)07:50 – Forming a producing team just before the WGA strike12:40 – How Frank secured an option agreement with Yale18:44 – The scene tweak that elevated an already award-winning scriptAbout the Guest:Frank Monteleone is the writer behind Candlestick Men, a Russian-American crime pilot that earned Best TV Pilot at Script Summit 2022. A rising talent with a pragmatic approach, Frank is blending research, IP, and polished craft to bring his stories to screens.About the Host: With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate instructor helping writers find success through his podcast and screenplay contest, Script Summit. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Script Summit ContestThe Black ListThe Vory by Mark Galeotti (Yale University Press)Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Website: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodTikTok: @screenwriterpodYouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterEnjoyed this episode? Leave a review, share it with a screenwriter friend, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insider stories from the industry.Want your script read by industry pros? Submit to Script Summit before the June 15 deadline!#Screenwriting #ScriptSummit #TheBlacklist #TVPilot #ScreenwriterJourney #WGAstrike #FrankMonteleone #GeoffreyDCalhoun #WritingTips

Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Tim Walsh (Chicago P.D.) and Elliot Wolf, the creators behind the new hit police procedural On Call, now streaming on Amazon Prime and Freevee. They dive into the show’s unique origin, its five-year development journey, and how they reimagined the procedural format. If you're writing a TV pilot or dreaming of your own series, this episode is a must-listen.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The origin story of On Call and its evolution from a Quibi conceptHow the creators reinvented the half-hour procedural for modern audiencesThe importance of strong character dynamics over traditional plot arcsHow to navigate studio notes while protecting creative visionAdvice for emerging screenwriters trying to break into TVKey Moments:02:24 – Reinventing the half-hour procedural03:32 – Tim Walsh on joining the project and developing Harmon’s character05:03 – The show’s unconventional structure and research-driven approach08:29 – Character-driven serialization vs. case-of-the-week storytelling10:55 – Navigating studio notes and political sensitivities14:50 – Real-world advice for spec writers trying to break inAbout the Guests:Tim Walsh is a veteran TV writer and producer with credits including Chicago P.D.. As showrunner of On Call, he brings years of procedural storytelling expertise.Elliot Wolf is the co-creator of On Call, originally developing the show as a Quibi short-form series before adapting it for traditional TV.About the Host:Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter with produced works on television and streaming platforms. He is the author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter and the host of The Successful Screenwriter, where he interviews industry pros and shares insider tips to help writers level up.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:On Call TV SeriesConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share, and review the show! Subscribe for more insider interviews and screenwriting strategies to help you grow your craft and career.#Screenwriting #OnCallSeries #TVWriting #AmazonPrime #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #GeoffreyDCalhoun #ProceduralDrama #WritersLife #ScriptwritingTips #TVDevelopment