IFH 771: Beat by Beat to a Better Screenplay with Jim Mercurio

On today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of creativity, resilience, and the art of storytelling with Phillip Andrew, a multi-talented producer, motivational speaker, and DJ from Los Angeles. From his humble beginnings in Michigan to his relentless pursuit of opportunities in Hollywood, Phillip's journey is a testament to the power of determination, adaptability, and the enduring impact of great stories.Phillip reminisced about his early days navigating the entertainment industry, sharing candid insights about how unconventional networking—like a chance encounter on a basketball court—landed him his first job in production. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, he said, "You don't always know which door will open, but that's why you keep knocking on as many as possible." This philosophy underscores the importance of persistence, even when the odds seem insurmountable.In the heart of Hollywood, Phillip discovered the transformative power of storytelling. He spoke passionately about the evolution of stories—from ancient oral traditions to modern-day cinematic spectacles. Despite technological advancements, Phillip believes the core of storytelling remains unchanged: creating narratives that resonate deeply with people. He emphasized, “It doesn’t matter how advanced the technology is—if the story doesn’t connect, the audience won’t care.”Phillip's journey wasn’t without its challenges. From grappling with personal setbacks to navigating the unpredictable nature of film sets, he revealed how these experiences shaped his outlook. He humorously recounted a lesson from the legendary director Wes Craven, who once said, "Who told you things were ever supposed to go as planned?" This nugget of wisdom became a mantra for Phillip, helping him approach obstacles with creativity and a solutions-oriented mindset.A recurring theme in the conversation was leadership—on set and in life. Phillip shared a story about a showrunner who inspired him by personally crawling under a table to fix a light. This simple act of humility and teamwork left a lasting impression, reinforcing Phillip’s belief that effective leaders must lead by example. He noted, “When people see that you’re willing to do the work too, they’ll want to go the extra mile with you.”Phillip also touched on the current "golden age of content," highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it presents. With an explosion of platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu, the barrier to entry has never been lower. However, this democratization of content also means creators face more competition than ever. For Phillip, the solution is simple: focus on the power of the story. “If you don’t have a compelling reason for your audience to care, your content will get lost in the noise,” he warned.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

On today’s episode, we welcome the dynamic duo, Lily Yasuda and Michael Wolfe, two inspiring filmmakers who have decided to take the road less traveled by creating their own feature film, Like Love. Their journey is one of collaboration, determination, and creativity—filled with moments of laughter and the occasional unexpected hurdle.From the outset, you’ll sense the chemistry between Lily and Michael. They first crossed paths during their time at Chapman University, bonding over vulnerable and humorous writing assignments in a creative writing class. Their shared passion for storytelling sparked not only a friendship but also a creative partnership. This partnership culminated in the idea for Like Love, a project born out of their desire to challenge traditional romantic comedy tropes.“We wanted to tell a story that feels real and honest,” Lily shares, “about friendships and the complexities of human connection.”At its heart, Like Love is what they call an “anti-romantic comedy.” Drawing inspiration from classics like When Harry Met Sally, Lily and Michael aim to flip the script on the genre. Instead of perpetuating the myth that friendship between men and women inevitably leads to romance, their film explores the beauty of platonic relationships. As Michael explains, “It’s about two friends trying to fall in love and realizing they’re better off as friends. That’s the kind of story we don’t see enough.”Their filmmaking journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Crowdfunding has been a pivotal part of bringing Like Love to life. Lily and Michael describe the process as “a full-time job in itself,” requiring not only meticulous planning but also a willingness to be vulnerable and open about their creative vision. They’ve leaned heavily on their network for support, finding generosity in unexpected places.“The community in Boise has been incredible,” says Lily. “People here are so supportive, offering locations, resources, and even homemade meals for the crew.”Despite the logistical hurdles, their passion for storytelling shines through. Michael, the film’s director, admits that directing a micro-budget feature comes with unique pressures. “We’re all wearing multiple hats,” he notes, “but it’s an amazing experience to work so closely with a team that believes in the project.” Lily, who also stars as the film’s lead, balances her roles as actor, writer, and producer with grace, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in every aspect of the project.As they reflect on their experiences, one thing becomes clear: Like Love is more than just a film; it’s a testament to the power of community and perseverance. Lily and Michael hope their story inspires other aspiring filmmakers to take the leap. “Making a movie isn’t easy,” Lily acknowledges, “but if you’re passionate about your story, you’ll find a way to make it happen.”Please enjoy my conversation with Lily Yasuda and Michael Wolfe.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

On today's episode, we welcome Jim Wynorski, a filmmaker whose career is a kaleidoscope of genres, relentless creativity, and a staggering portfolio of over 160 films. Known for his ability to churn out projects with unmatched efficiency, Jim's journey through the cinematic landscape is nothing short of fascinating. From cult classics like Chopping Mall to unexpected forays into family-friendly territory, his career offers insights into filmmaking’s raw, unpolished edges.In this conversation, Jim Wynorski shares the story of how he transitioned from directing commercials in New York to working under the legendary Roger Corman in Hollywood. "I packed up my stuff in a car and drove across the country. I struggled for a few years doing anything I could, and eventually, my scripts got into the right hands," Jim says. It’s a tale of grit and determination, emblematic of the relentless pursuit of dreams that fuels so many creative spirits.Jim's approach to filmmaking is a study in versatility. Whether crafting low-budget horror or light-hearted family films, he has always been deeply attuned to audience preferences. He reflects on this ability, explaining how understanding the marketplace keeps him relevant. "You don't make a movie for yourself; you make it for the audience. If you don’t, it’s not going to sell," he advises, underscoring the pragmatism that has defined his work ethic.The discussion takes a humorous turn when Jim recounts some of the challenges of working with temperamental actors, including notorious on-set dramas. While he speaks fondly of most collaborators, a few experiences left lasting impressions. "Robert Culp, who I loved as a kid, was a prick and a half. He complained about everything—from the lenses to the meals. The entire crew booed him on his last day!" Jim laughs, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the human side of filmmaking.But Jim isn't only about business and conflict—his passion for storytelling shines when discussing his favorite films and the joy of working in diverse genres. From the fantastical to the comedic, his projects reflect a deep curiosity about the possibilities of cinema."Each film took me to new places, both literally and creatively," Jim recalls, noting how travel and novelty kept the work exciting even during grueling production schedules.He also touches on the changing dynamics of the film industry, particularly the impact of digital platforms and the decline of physical media. Ever adaptable, Jim explains how these shifts inspired him to pivot from horror to family films, seizing opportunities in a dwindling DVD market. "I walked into Walmart, saw family films selling well, and decided to make one about a dog and Christmas," he says. The resulting success is a testament to his knack for spotting trends and evolving with the times.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

The craft of filmmaking is as much about the soul as it is about the frame. In today's conversation, we sit down with Kansas Bowling, a maverick filmmaker who began charting her creative course at just 17 years old. As the first graduate of the Troma Institute for the Gifted, Kansas burst onto the scene with her debut feature, B.C. Butcher, a cavewoman slasher filmed on 16mm. From that bold beginning, her journey has only intensified, guided by a vision both rebellious and deeply personal.Kansas embodies the heart of artistic defiance, carving her path outside the confines of conventional education."I thought it would be easier to just make a movie than go to film school," she reflects, and her success vindicates her instincts. Her philosophy is one of doing: creating without overthinking, trusting her voice, and stepping into the arena without waiting for permission. Her work ethic shines through her portfolio, from feature films to over 20 music videos, all captured on her beloved 16mm film.Kansas opens a window into her creative process. For her, filmmaking is as much about confidence as it is about technical skill. "Directing is just telling people what you want to see. Everything else, you can learn along the way." This candid wisdom is refreshing, cutting through the mystique often associated with creative mastery.With humor and humility, she explains her preference for shooting on film, emphasizing its "timeless look" that digital can never replicate.Despite the beauty of her craft, Kansas has faced challenges that mirror the rawness of her stories. From navigating the loss of her Instagram account due to a controversial post, to fielding inappropriate offers as a female filmmaker, she moves forward with resilience. "People always send me horrible scripts where the whole thing is just a giant sex scene," she shares, laughing off the absurdity. Yet, she balances these experiences with genuine collaborations, such as her role in The Electra Complex, a project she describes as "the most well-written screenplay I've ever read."When asked about her influences, Kansas rattles off a list of cinematic gems: F for Fake by Orson Welles, Midnight Cowboy, and the Italian classic Don't Torture a Duckling. These films, she notes, have a unique authenticity—a quality she strives to infuse in her own work.For Kansas, filmmaking isn’t about mimicking others; it’s about harnessing inspiration while remaining true to her distinctive voice.As she wraps up production on her second feature, Kansas is also directing multiple music videos, preparing for a shoot in Miami, and starring in a major project. Her days are packed, yet her focus remains sharp. The secret to her productivity? She simply follows her passion. "If you see a film in your head, just go out and make it," she advises, encouraging budding creatives to trust their instincts and take action.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

In today’s episode, we welcome the brilliant comedic minds behind Chasing Molly: Shelley Pack and Josh Sutherland. Together, they share the odyssey of making an independent film from scratch, driven by pure creativity and an unwavering dedication to laughter and storytelling. Their journey is not just one of filmmaking but of persistence, grit, and a desire to carve a unique voice in the comedy genre.Shelley Pack brings her background as a comedian and improv performer, skillfully assembling a cast of friends and acquaintances to breathe life into Chasing Molly. With no big studios or massive budgets, Shelley and Josh poured their souls into the project. "It was liberating to create something genuinely funny without restrictions," Shelley reflects, highlighting how the freedom of independent filmmaking allowed her to maintain the authenticity of the comedy.On the other side, Josh Sutherland recounts his journey from a kid with a camcorder to a professional in Hollywood, working every possible crew position to understand the art and science of film. A student of cinema at the University of Texas, Josh entered the world of visual effects, gaining firsthand knowledge in various roles. When the opportunity arose to collaborate on Chasing Molly, Josh brought not only technical expertise but also a lifelong passion. "Filmmaking is a huge, huge team sport," he explains, underscoring the communal effort that went into producing the film.One memorable anecdote shared by Shelley and Josh is the challenge of shooting in a real pawn shop while it was open to the public. With customers oblivious to the filming, Shelley describes an eccentric woman examining items with a magnifying glass, fully engrossed in her shopping while the crew scrambled to finish the scene before sundown. Such improvisational moments added authenticity to the film, revealing the beauty and chaos of guerilla-style filmmaking.Shelley also speaks about the “Zen Cholo,” a character who emerged through social media sleuthing. Shelley found “Scar,” a YouTube personality with a massive social following, whose calm demeanor brought unexpected depth to the role of a gang leader. This resourcefulness in casting enabled the team to create a distinctive character who, as Shelley notes, is “like a Buddha with street cred,” adding unique charm to the film.In the end, Chasing Molly is more than a film; it’s a testament to the idea that with a vision, a supportive crew, and a refusal to take “no” for an answer, anything is possible. As Josh says, “We set ourselves up to win,” and that victory is felt in every scene of this indie gemBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

On today's episode, we welcome Jameson Parker, a seasoned producer with roots in theater, who’s climbed the ranks in the world of film and television. As a Development Director at Bright Light Pictures, Jameson has developed a keen eye for projects that align with his passion and resonate with audiences. Starting as an actor, he transitioned to production, taking on the mentorship of industry veteran Sean Williamson, and carving a niche in the independent cinema space.Jameson shares his journey from pursuing theater in Vancouver to becoming a producer with a versatile portfolio, which includes films like Summer of 84 and the Netflix series Julie and the Phantoms. He explains the art of “breaking in” as an evolving process, emphasizing perseverance and the invaluable nature of mentorship in an industry where relationships shape opportunities. In his case, connecting with Sean was pivotal, as it granted him guidance and resources to navigate the challenging waters of production. As he aptly puts it, “There’s an element of perseverance that permeates every success story—banging your head against the wall until the brick cracks.”In our conversation, Jameson reflects on the state of Hollywood’s market-driven focus, where franchises and reboots often overshadow fresh, original stories. He believes true creative fulfillment lies in cultivating unique narratives rather than chasing trends.He references his experience with Summer of 84, which drew inspiration from classic thrillers and managed to resonate with audiences without the typical industry formulas. Jameson champions the importance of bringing something authentic to the screen, arguing, “If you chase what’s doing well in the marketplace, you’re always going to be behind the eight ball.”For Jameson, networking is less about formal events and more about building meaningful relationships. He recalls his serendipitous meeting with writer Matt Leslie at a networking event, which led to the development of Summer of 84. He stresses that genuine connections often lead to more fruitful collaborations than transactional exchanges. This philosophy has carried him through many projects, as he remains committed to developing authentic connections both on and off set.As the conversation deepens, Jameson delves into the complexities of producing for television versus film. Working with Netflix on Julie and the Phantoms, alongside renowned director Kenny Ortega, has been a “big learning experience” for him. He contrasts this with his independent projects, which allow for more creative control and hands-on involvement.The Netflix series exemplifies the evolving landscape of TV production, where platforms like Netflix provide vast opportunities but also introduce unique challenges due to their expansive, competitive nature.Jameson also speaks to the behind-the-scenes challenges producers face, especially in managing large teams on set. From navigating egos to ensuring open communication, he explains how these aspects shape the production experience. He acknowledges that problem-solving in production can feel overwhelming but emphasizes the importance of keeping a calm perspective. “If it can be solved with money, it’s not really a problem,” he says, underscoring his pragmatic approach to navigating production obstacles.In a business defined by collaboration and trust, Jameson has thrived by working with familiar faces, valuing shared experiences over constant change. His career is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and a deep-seated love for storytelling. As he anticipates his next independent film project, he remains committed to blending his studio experiences with his passion for independent cinema.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

On today's episode, we welcome Sean Buckley, founder and CEO of Buck Productions. From humble beginnings to becoming a force in content creation, Sean’s journey is a testament to persistence, passion, and adaptability. Through his story, he paints a vivid picture of the challenges of building a media production company from scratch, especially in an ever-evolving industry where technology has transformed the very nature of content creation. "Work ethic," he says, "is the backbone of success in this industry."Sean recalls the early days in 1994, when making content meant overcoming logistical obstacles that today’s creators rarely face. Filmmaking then was a more arduous process, demanding significant manual effort, with analog, linear editing and physical deliveries of VHS tapes. In those days, getting a project off the ground involved cold calls and navigating skepticism. Sean emphasizes that those experiences, though difficult, were foundational. They shaped his resilience, a trait that he argues is crucial for creators even today.As the conversation delves deeper, Sean reflects on how the digital age has leveled the playing field. With tools now accessible to everyone, "the barriers to entry," he notes, "are almost gone." Anyone can shoot, edit, and publish content. But with the democratization of content creation, he warns, comes a saturation of voices. Success in this new landscape, he believes, demands not just access but talent and a relentless drive to stand out amid the noise. For Sean, having a unique perspective and refined storytelling craft remains paramount in a world awash with content.Despite the industry’s rapid changes, Sean holds firm to his philosophy of diversity in storytelling. Buck Productions has a varied portfolio spanning feature films, unscripted shows, documentaries, and branded content. "Our business model is like a spectrum," he explains, "where creativity meets business acumen." This diversified approach has allowed Buck Productions to adapt to industry trends without being pigeonholed, and to prioritize meaningful projects. For Sean, content creation is both an art and a business, one that demands constant evolution and balance between vision and practicality.When asked about the influx of new content on platforms like YouTube and Netflix, Sean sees both opportunity and challenge. The vast amount of content now available has shifted the power dynamic from creators to audiences, who now decide when, where, and what they want to watch. "Today’s audience has a ferocious appetite," he observes, "and they’re the ones in control." This shift requires creators to think not only about what they make but also about how quickly they can adapt to audience demands.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

Today on the show we have author, filmmaker and screenwriter Mick Hurbis-Cherrier.Mick  is an independent filmmaker and screenwriter. His works have been broadcast and shown around the country and have garnered prizes at many festivals including the Black Maria Film & Video Festival, Ann Arbor Film Festival, Athens Film & Video Festival and the Cin(e) Poems National Film Festival.His work has also been featured at the Robert Flaherty Seminar, the American Film Institute’s National Video Showcase and at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. His screenplays have also won prizes including the Arthur Miller Award for dramatic writing, the Lawrence Kasdan award for screenwriting and he was twice an award winner in the University Film & Video Association national screenwriting competition.Among his film projects are: River of Things, an alternative film in four parts based on four poems by Pablo Neruda and Fear Fall, a short narrative satire about paranoia and the squeezing of the American middle class, which he wrote, directed and produced.His recent commissioned feature screenwriting projects include Give Me Five, which he co-wrote (with Ron Bass) for La Petite Reine Productions, Mesopotamia 2020 for Picturesque films and Empire of Dirt for director Steve Ramser. He also penned Better That Way, the official English language stage adaptation of the film Une Liaison Pornographique (U.S. release title An Affair of Love).He is currently completing a gangster genre screenplay set in New Orleans entitled Force of Nature, also for Picturesque films.In 2011 Hurbis-Cherrier published the 2nd edition of his comprehensive narrative film production textbook Voice & Vision: A Creative Approach to Narrative Filmmaking. with Focal Press (originally published in 2007). In 2013 he published Directing: Film Techniques and Aesthetics 5th ed. (Focal Press) co-authored with Michael Rabiger.Both of these books are among the core film production textbooks in film programs throughout this country and internationally. Hurbis-Cherrier is currently working on the book, Practical Film Analysis and Inspired Filmmaking for the British Film Institute (BFI Publishing, Palgrave/MacMillan) which is scheduled for publication in early 2015.Enjoy my conversation with Mick Hurbis-Cherrier.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

Tom Benedek is a screenwriter known for his work in the film industry. He was born on March 16, 1949, in Los Angeles, California, USA. Benedek has written several screenplays for movies across various genres. One of his notable works includes co-writing the screenplay for the 1984 science fiction film "Cocoon," directed by Ron Howard."Cocoon" was a critical and commercial success and received two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor and Best Visual Effects. The film tells the story of a group of elderly individuals who discover an alien life force that rejuvenates them, leading to a series of life-changing events.In addition to his work on "Cocoon," Tom Benedek has written other screenplays and worked on various projects in the entertainment industry.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

Today on the show we have Jim Mercurio. Jim is a filmmaker, writer, and author whose screenwriting instruction has inspired tens of thousands of writers around the world. Creative Screenwriting ranked him as one of the country’s top story analysts:“The best example of how an analyst can give concrete help without veering off the track of your story... (Jim) is not just telling you how to rewrite a particular script... but how to apply it to future work as well.”Jim works with Oscar-nominated and A-List writers as well as complete beginners. He adapts to each writer and script.Jim is a true champion for undiscovered writers and filmmakers. He produced Hard Scrambled which, like the horror-thriller he directed Last Girl, was discovered in a contest. The film stars Kurtwood Smith (That 70’s Show) and indie stalwart Richard Edson. It premiered at Cinequest and won Best Dramatic Feature at Garden State Film Festival. His experience as a filmmaker informs his approach to the material. He helps you to execute your vision with vivid and cinematic storytelling that can attract allies like directors and producers.He directed more than 60 hours of Screenwriting education including the first 40 Workshops in the Screenwriting Expo Series including classes by some of the other top screenwriting teachers in the world.His own course Killer Endings was one of the best sellers from the collection. He wrote and directed Making Hard Scrambled Movies, filmmaking tutorials, as bonus material for Hard Scrambled’s original release.The Washington Post called them “a must for would-be filmmakers.” Inspired by his work on the Expo series, Jim applied his entrepreneurial “go big or go home” attitude to the six-disc DVD set Complete Screenwriting: From A to Z to A-List, a behemoth of screenwriting instruction. It is one of the most comprehensive screenwriting resources in the world. It’s a fast and furious ten hours with an hour of stunning motion graphics that help to explain seldom-discussed topics like theme, concept and character orchestration.Jim wrote The Craft of Scene Writing: Beat by Beat to a Better Script, the first-ever screenwriting book that focuses solely on scene writing.Together, Jim’s course and book illustrate his forte, to illustrate advanced craft and nitty-gritty insight essential for mastery of screenwriting craft.Enjoy my conversation with Jim Mercurio.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.