Ep 303 - Why Empathy is the Real Screenwriting Superpower

Episode 303 is a packed Q&A with Geoffrey D. Calhoun and co-host Kristy Leigh, kicking off with holiday movie talk, a Star Wars tactical jacket upgrade, and why screenwriting can change how you watch films forever. Then they jump into the real stuff writers are asking right now: how to build characters that feel human, why empathy might be the hidden superpower behind great scripts, how to query smarter, what competitions are actually good for, how to adapt a novel into a screenplay, and what page counts make readers actually want to open your script.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy empathy is a major advantage in writing believable charactersHow to create stronger characters using simple, practical frameworksHow to query without spraying your script everywhereWhen competitions help, and when they are just noiseWhat page count makes your feature feel “readable” to industry folksKey Moments03:19 Does screenwriting “ruin” movies or deepen your appreciation?10:07 Geoffrey’s worst script read and why empathy matters on the page17:50 Building great characters26:41 Competitions: what they are good for, what to avoid, and why research matters29:42 Novel to screenplay: streamline Plot A, combine characters, and write efficiently36:24 Feature page count: what feels professional and what gets ignoredAbout the Cohost:Kristy Leigh is Geoffrey’s co-host and a performer with a sharp eye for story, structure, and what makes characters pop on screen. She brings a grounded industry perspective, plus the actor’s lens on why certain writing choices work.About the HostWith 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 EpisodeThe Guide for Every Screenwriter (Geoffrey’s book)WriterDuet (screenwriting software)InkTip Script Leads (Geoffrey shares free vetted leads)“Sinopedia” (Kristy’s horror script breakdown book recommendation)Films and shows discussed: Christmas Vacation, Die Hard 2, Die Hard 3, The Office, Avatar: The Way of Water, upcoming Avatar 3Enjoyable writing picks: DogMan (Luc Besson), SinnersConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Kristy’s vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite:thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #Screenwriting #ScreenwritingTips #Screenwriter #WritingCommunity #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #QueryLetters #ScreenplayStructure #CharacterDevelopment🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In Episode 302, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined once again by Kristy Leigh Lussier for a wide-ranging, candid conversation that blends film breakdowns, screenwriting craft, and real-world industry advice. The duo digs into why Sisu: Road to Revenge works as a sequel, how emotional stakes elevate spectacle, and what filmmakers can learn from restraint. They also explore the surprising power of HBO’s Welcome to Derry, including why sometimes a story should end exactly where it does. From there, the conversation shifts into the realities of modern screenwriting, including the rise of “tell-don’t-show” storytelling for second-screen audiences, what that means for craft, and how writers can adapt without losing their voice. The episode wraps with practical career advice for emerging writers, a hard truth about querying too early, and a holiday debate that refuses to die: is Die Hard actually a Christmas movie?What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Sisu 2 succeeds by keeping its original formula intactHow emotional stakes matter more than scale in sequelsThe risks of overtelling stories for second-screen audiencesWhen “tell-don’t-show” notes appear and how to handle them professionallyWhether characters must always change to have a strong arcWhy sending scripts too early can hurt your careerHow to protect yourself from common industry scamsKey Moments00:42 – Why Sisu: Road to Revenge feels like “Norwegian Fury Road”03:00 – Emotional stakes and weaponizing personal loss in sequels05:11 – Why Welcome to Derry delivers rare emotional closure09:39 – Is “tell-don’t-show” becoming the new normal?18:26 – Do characters have to change? The Big Lebowski debate22:27 – Why writers should not send scripts too early27:35 – Die Hard debate officially beginsAbout the Guest hostKristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker, producer, and longtime co-host of The Successful Screenwriter Podcast. Known for her honest industry insight and sharp storytelling instincts, Kristy brings a grounded, practical perspective to conversations about craft, career, and the realities of working in film and television.About the HostWith 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 EpisodeSisu: Road to RevengeWelcome to DerryThe Big LebowskiYoung AdultDie HardConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: https://www.thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/screenwriterpodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesuccessfulscreenwriter#ScreenwritingPodcast #ScreenwritingAdvice #FilmIndustry #WritingCommunity #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #StoryStructure #ScreenwritingTips 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this solo episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun breaks down the shocking acquisition bids involving Netflix, Warner Bros., and Paramount and explains what they actually mean for working screenwriters. With co-host Kristy Leigh Lussier sidelined by COVID, Geoffrey steps in to unpack the real industry impact behind the headlines, from shrinking theatrical windows and mid-budget film erosion to foreign investment, media consolidation, and soft power. Most importantly, Geoffrey offers clarity, perspective, and practical guidance on how writers can still build careers, get projects made, and create opportunity in a rapidly shifting entertainment landscape.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Netflix’s business model puts mid-budget films at riskWhat Paramount’s bid could mean for theatrical releases and media controlHow monopolization affects writers, creators, and audiencesWhere writers can realistically get work made right nowWhy chasing gigs is less effective than building IPWhether moving to LA still makes sense in today’s industryHow to choose the right idea when none of them feel readyKey Moments00:00 Industry update and why this episode could not wait06:30 Netflix’s $80B bid and the future of theatrical releases15:20 Paramount’s $108B offer, foreign money, and CNN influence27:45 Why Netflix wins regardless of who acquires Warner Bros36:10 What writers should do now to survive and thrive48:30 Choosing the idea that is worth writingAbout the HostWith 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 EpisodeWeekly free screenwriting leads athttps://www.thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #HollywoodBusiness #Netflix #WarnerBros #Paramount #ScreenwritersLife #FilmCareers #StreamingWars #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

We are celebrating our big 300th episode with in depth craft talk and our giveaway. Kristy breaks down seeing Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 in a packed theater, what real fan service looks like, and why understanding the assignment with IP can matter more than chasing four quadrant appeal. Geoffrey shares his hot take on Wicked For Good and why character motivation has to make emotional sense or the whole story starts to wobble. We talk about Netflix buying Warner Bros, what consolidation could mean for theaters and for working writers, and why packed screenings still matter. From there we dig into real listener questions, including what to do when your second act is boring in a contained script, how subplots keep a story alive, why cutting to the antagonist is a secret weapon, and why you should master features before jumping into pilots and series. If you are stuck in act two, worried your work is not ready, or wondering how to get your script seen when you feel like you live in the middle of nowhere, this milestone episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to tell if your script is truly ready to be “out there”Practical ways to fix a boring second act in a contained storyWhy subplots and antagonists keep your pages from going flatThe real difference between features and pilots, and why that mattersWhat fandom driven hits like Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 can teach you about IP and audienceKey Moments00:20 – Celebrating episode 300 and announcing the big giveaway prizes01:12 – Kristy’s breakdown of Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 and writing for fandoms06:45 – Geoffrey’s Wicked 2 hot take, grief, and the missed John Wick moment12:17 – Netflix buying Warner Bros, what this means for theaters and writers23:42 – Listener question, how to fix a boring second act in a limited settingAbout the CoHostKristy Leigh is a writer, director, and co host of the show. She works in film and television, writes and directs vertical drama such as The Witch Wolf’s Mate for ReelShort, and helps writers level up their scripts through feedback and development.About the HostWith 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. His mission is to inspire and empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeThe Guide For Every ScreenwriterFive Nights at Freddy’s 2Wicked For GoodInkTipScreenX and 4D style theatrical screeningsConnect with GuestKristy on Instagram:@kantoka127Kristy’s vertical drama The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#ScreenwritingPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #ScreenwritingTips #SecondActProblems #BadScreenwritingAdvice #KristyLeigh #VirtualGeoffrey #InkTip #FiveNightsAtFreddys #WickedMovie🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode, filmmaker Jesse McAnally joins Geoffrey to break down the real process of making an indie feature from scratch. Jesse shares how he developed The Daughters of the Domino, ran a successful Kickstarter, storyboarded every shot in Cine Tracer, and navigated the unexpected challenges that hit indie sets. From on-the-fly rewrites to managing clashing personalities, Jesse opens up about the realities most filmmakers never talk about.If you’re building your own film or planning to, this one is loaded with practical insight and encouragement.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to develop a feature from a childhood conceptSmarter ways to run a Kickstarter without drowning in giveawaysWhy pre-visualization can save your productionHow to adjust performances and scenes in real timeThe truth about set conflicts and managing moraleWhy your film is your calling cardThe power of collaboration and treating people wellKey Moments00:20 Jesse explains the origin of The Daughters of the Domino02:50 How he structured a stress-free Kickstarter with digital perks05:40 Storyboarding every shot using Cine Tracer07:00 The first-day disaster and managing crew expectations10:26 On-set rewrites after discovering new opportunities in performanceAbout the GuestJesse McAnally is a filmmaker whose latest feature, The Daughters of the Domino, blends mystery, character-driven storytelling, and sharp visual planning. His work has screened at festivals across the country and continues to draw attention for its craft and originality.About the HostWith 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 This EpisodeThe Daughters of the Domino film info and festival updatesCine Tracer (previz/storyboarding tool)Connect with GuestInstagram: @jessemcanallyWebsite: https://www.jessemcanally.comConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #filmmaking #indiefilm #podcast #thesuccessfulscreenwriter #kickstarterfilm #storydevelopment🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Geoffrey and Kristy tackle some of the worst “rules” floating around screenwriting circles. They break down why advice like “the audience must always be ahead of your characters” or “every line of dialogue needs action underneath it” can actually limit your voice and make your script feel stiff. They dig into Predator: Badlands, Prey, and the new Deathstalker, talk about empathy for monsters, building lore that feels lived in, and how theme and character relationships elevate genre. Then they answer questions on action description, page density, and when it actually makes sense to bend or break format. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by conflicting advice, this episode clears the fog and shows you how to keep scripts clean and professional without losing your styleWhat You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy some “never do this” rules are just personal preferencesHow to choose whether the audience is ahead of, equal to, or behind your charactersWhen dialogue stands fine on its ownHow to keep action lines tight while still revealing characterHow to bend format without looking sloppyKey Moments00:20 300th episode giveaway teaser00:57 Predator: Badlands, empathy for a Predator, and theme talk08:30 Breaking down the “audience must be ahead” myth11:59 Why dialogue doesn’t always need action underneath20:48 When breaking format is smart instead of sloppyAbout the GuestKristy Leigh Lussier is a screenwriter, director, and producer focused on character driven storytelling. She brings a director’s eye to structure, performance, and theme, and she joins Geoffrey in the weekly livestreams to help writers level up their craft.About the HostWith films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a mentor dedicated to helping writers grow. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to support filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodePredator: BadlandsPreyDeathstalkerPearl Harbor (screenplay example)Star Wars Episode III fight sceneConnect with KristyKristy on Instagram: @kantoka127Kristy’s vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram:@screenwriterpod YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriterIf this episode helped you rethink some of the “rules,” subscribe, leave a quick review, and share it with a writer who needs to hear it. Screenshot this episode, tag @screenwriterpod, and tell us one writing “rule” you’re ready to let go of. And keep an eye on Instagram for the 300th episode giveaway.#screenwriting #screenwritingpodcast #screenwritingtips #amwriting #scriptnotes #indiefilm #PredatorBadlands #Deathstalker #writingadvice🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In episode 297, Geoffrey and Kristy go live to talk remakes, theme, and the realities of writing inside a studio system. They compare the new Running Man to the Arnold classic, explore why Predator: Badlands feels like a surprise standout, and break down Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein as a case study in subtlety and adaptation. They also answer live viewer questions about originality in Hollywood, story structure, outlining, and how to keep writing from getting overcomplicated. Geoffrey shares two new Script Leads and previews the big 300th episode giveaway,What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to weave theme into your story without stating it out loudWhy del Toro’s Frankenstein hits key book elements and where it still sidesteps the core nature vs nurture ideaThe difference between three act and five act structure, and how to spot it while watchingHow studio pressures shape “originality” in modern filmsA mind map technique to create new story ideas fastKey Moments00:37 Talking the 300th episode giveaway and Virtual Geoffrey01:38 Breaking down the new Running Man vs the 1987 original06:49 Why Predator: Badlands works and Dan Trachtenberg’s direction for the franchise09:03 Debunking the bad advice that writers must state the theme directly17:27 Why del Toro’s Frankenstein is the closest yet to the novel, and where the adaptation shifts focusAbout the GuestKristy Leigh Lussier is a screenwriter, producer, actress, and story analyst with a background in development and script evaluation. She champions character driven genre projects, has produced and contributed to numerous independent shorts and features, and mentors emerging writers in the craft and business of screenwriting.About the HostWith 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 This EpisodeThe Running Man (1987)The new Running ManGuillermo del Toro’s FrankensteinScript Leads blog on TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.comConnect with Guest: Kristy Leigh LussierInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical drama The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriterShare the episode, leave a rating, and send in your questions for next week’s live Q&A.#Screenwriting #ScreenwritingPodcast #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #WritingTheme #Frankenstein #RunningMan #Predator #ScriptLeads #WriteBetterScripts🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier dive into horror films, story rules, and the art of breaking them the right way. From Geoffrey’s emotional reaction to Good Boy to their debate on flashbacks and narrative discipline, this episode is packed with insights for any writer exploring tension, fear, and structure. Plus, they brainstorm ideas for the upcoming 300th episode giveaway and talk about the films every horror fan should see.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to break story rules the right wayThe importance of structure and consistency in screenwritingHow to use flashbacks effectively (and when they hurt your story)Writing fear through tension, atmosphere, and primal emotionWhat today’s horror films can teach about character and storytellingKey Moments00:22 Brainstorming ideas for the 300th episode celebration01:03 Geoffrey’s emotional reaction to Good Boy and dog-POV storytelling08:37 The Woman in the Yard and the danger of breaking story rules11:24 Trash Screenwriting Advice: “Just break the rules”19:28 Flashbacks and how to use them effectivelyAbout the GuestKristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker, writer, and producer with a passion for genre storytelling. She brings a sharp industry perspective and a love of horror to the conversation.Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her series The Witch Wolf’s Mate: Watch HereAbout the HostWith 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 EpisodeThe Guide For Every ScreenwriterGood BoyWe Are ZombiesTurbo KidTerrifier seriesThe Woman in the YardHalloween (1978)The ConjuringThe ExorcistSession 9Connect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram:@screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriterWe’re only four episodes away from 300! Have an idea for our big celebration or giveaway? Send it in and don’t forget to share your screenwriting questions for next week’s show.#Screenwriting #WritingTips #Filmmaking #HorrorWriting #Podcast🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Director Anu Valia joins Geoffrey to unpack the craft behind her feature We Strangers. We dig into keeping your voice while working in TV, building an indie over years, collaborating with actors who elevate subtext, and weaving race, class, and power into story without preaching. If you’re balancing paid gigs with personal work and wondering how to protect your vision, this one’s for you.If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and share it with a writer friend.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to keep your creative voice while directing for televisionA practical path from idea to finished indie featureCasting strategies that unlock subtext and performanceDirecting actors with clear, specific adjustmentsWriting themes of race, class, and power with nuanceKey Moments00:23 Welcome and credits that shaped Anu’s eye01:35 The journey of We Strangers and VOD access04:54 The premise, subtext, and why the “tiny lie” works06:58 Code switching, identity, and carrying the creative backpack16:08 Why “great directing is casting” and working the sceneAbout the GuestAnu Valia is a writer-director known for character-driven stories across film and television, including episodes of acclaimed series and the feature We Strangers.About the HostWith 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 EpisodeWe StrangersShe-Hulk: Attorney at LawShrinkingAnd Just Like That…Connect with GuestLearn more about We Strangers on VOD platformsConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #filmmaking #directing #indiefilm #acting #casting #WeStrangers #AnuValia #TVdirector #storycraft🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Tommy Cresta from The Popcorn Podcast joins Geoffrey to talk about moving from reviewing movies to writing them. They dig into shopping a home-invasion feature called Trespass, ways to get eyes on your script, and the messy middle of creative burnout. The conversation also gets real about men’s mental health, eating disorders, and building support systems that keep you writing. Stick around for Alien and Predator franchise hot takes plus a peek at Tommy’s found-footage project and gaming content.If you are having thoughts of suicide or are in emotional distress, you are not alone.Call or text 988 in the U.S. to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free, 24/7 confidential support.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodePractical ways to shop a first feature script without gatekeepersHow contests, listings, and “script for sale” pages can build momentumManaging burnout, depression, and isolation as a writerWhy community matters and how to find your tribeFranchise talk: Alien, Predator, and what’s worth studying as a writerKey Moments00:22 Welcome and the story behind Trespass02:19 From podcasting to screenwriting and finding purpose through writing06:38 Hitting rock bottom, NYU film training, and family support10:33 Men’s mental health, suicidal ideation, and reaching out for help16:14 A lighter turn: Alien, Predator, and finding inspiration in fandomAbout the GuestTommy Cresta is one half of The Popcorn Podcast. He reviews films, creates gaming content, and is shopping the home-invasion feature Trespass. He’s also developing a winter found-footage horror project and documenting a ghost investigation for his channel.About the HostWith 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 EpisodeTrespass (feature script) and the strategy of listing scripts for purchase13Horror contest model for script visibilityAlien: RomulusThe Rookie (ABC)Hulu’s animated Predator filmNYU filmmaking program (as a career reset and skills boost)Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (U.S.)Connect with GuestThe Popcorn Podcast — YouTube and SpotifyInstagram: search “The Popcorn Podcast Tommy Cresta”Gaming and horror content on the same channelConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite:thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #mentalhealth #suicideprevention #indiefilm #screenwriterpodcast #horror #Alien #Predator🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!