This week on the show we have filmmaker Chris Sobchak. Chris co-created an Amazon Prime Series with star Nicole Sobchack, Please Tell Me I’m Adopted! follows free-spirited, wide-eyed, disaster magnet Tiffany who is forced to move in with her newly married sister, roping them into crazy, often culturally-current escapades with outrageous and hilarious consequences. What began as a project for a sketch comedy class is now an original short-form comedy series, which premiered exclusively on Amazon on March 6, 2017.

The entire production was crowdfunded by friends, family and even strangers, so it was important for Executive Producer Chris Sobchak to keep costs down as much as possible. This led to him and Nicole doing the entire post process through Davinci Resolve, including CGI, sound design, VFX, color and editing, themselves.

“Newness” examines sex and intimacy in new ways as well as old.

Debuting on VOD is the movie “Newness”, a drama about the Millennial generation and their search for love and intimacy against the backdrop of Snapchat and modern Los Angeles. Swiping left and right, trying to find a perfect match, are Martin and Gabi (Nicholas Hault and Laia Costa). Their relationship starts with a one-night stand but quickly turns into something more meaningful. Filmed as a frank and provocative “fly on the wall” story, director Drake Doremus and screenwriter Ben York Jones have created a movie that that feels wholly naturalistic, even organic. Still, look closely and you’ll see how disciplined these filmmakers are following proper screenwriting structure and creating vivid character arcs. It all makes for one of the most satisfying indie gems of 2017.

Industry Insider: What You Need To Know About The Town, The Business, and Current Trends. Sponsored by the Nickelodeon Writing Program

As part of the ISA's regular, monthly Third Thursdays social events, the ISA has a quarterly live panel series where we bring on panelists from various aspects of the industry to educate, inform, and inspire.

In August 2017, the Live Panel consisted of: Assist your writing and filmmaking career chances by getting behind the scenes knowledge of industry trends, what studios are planning or looking for, and where TV is headed next. Panelists include an all-female roster with: Producer Tracey Becker, Writer/Producer Tawnya Bhattacharya, and the ISA's Development Slate Executive, Felicity Wren, hosted by Max Timm and sponsored by the Nickelodeon Writing Program.

Listen in and take advantage of the ISA's recordings of live panel events. If you are in Los Angeles, be sure to stay tuned to the Events page on the ISA webpage for upcoming schedule, however you can always count on a big crowd and a welcoming social atmosphere at our monthly Third Thursdays socials and parties.

Excerpt from the podcast:

“...the pilot episode of any TV series does more than just introduce great characters or tell a great story. It creates an engine powerful enough to launch every character in the series into a huge journey-- and a replicable structure for the series powerful enough to last many seasons.

But Stranger Things 1 has a particularly challenging structure to replicate in Stranger Things 2, because the whole structure of the first season is built around a simple problem that’s completely resolved by the time we get to the second season!

In Stranger Things 1, a little boy named Will is missing, and his merry band of friends friends need to come together in a real-world Dungeons & Dragons quest to find him.

Wrapped around this very simple structure are a bunch of wonderfully horrifying elements-- a creature that can only be seen in the shadows, a magical world called The Upside Down that’s only gradually revealing itself, a bunch of creepy-creepy operatives that are ready to kill to protect a secret that even they don’t understand, a mother communicating with her lost son through Christmas lights, and of course, Eleven, a little girl with magical powers who everyone seems to be hunting.

But by the time we get to Episode 1 of Season 2, Will is back (at least mostly) in the real world, so there’s no missing boy to build a structure around.

By the time we get to Season 2, the terrifying Demogorgon, which once was scary like the shark in Jaws, not for what we could see, but for what we couldn’t-- has not only been flushed from the shadows, but vanquished from them (at least mostly). So we need a new fin in the water to build the terror around.

By the time we get to Season 2, the world of The Upside Down, which we only barely understood, has now been entered and explored. So we need a new mystery in The Upside Down to build the world around.

By the time we get to Season 2, the mother, Joyce, can communicate with Will while driving carpool, so we need a new spiritual component that no one else understands to build the relationship around.

And by the time we get to Season 2, (at least as far as we know), Eleven is gone. So we need a new magical little girl to build the threat around.

In fact, by the time we get to Season 2, the only major structural element we still have going for us from the engine of Season 1 is the creepy operatives. But even they are a whole lot less interesting, now that we have some sense of who they are and what they do…

Which means the first episode of Season 2 has to do a lot more than replicate the engine of Season 1. It actually has to re-launch it…”

The ISA's Max Timm sat down with comic book expert, writer, editor, and consultant, Jim Higgins for a quick chat about the intricate process of developing, producing, and writing a comic book. On top of the writing process and approach to comic book writing, they also discussed the various steps necessary for adapting a comic for the screen.

While the movie and television industries are still high on superhero stories, not all comic books are about superheroes. The entertainment landscape today is heavily focused on adapting pre-existing material that already has a fan base, and creating your own comic series, whether it's a graphic novel, straight comic strip, or something in between, can help you launch a career. It takes time, determination, and a whole lot of elbow grease to create a fan base from the ground up, but it could be what puts you over the top.

Listen in, and if you would like to get in touch Jim to inquire about working with him, you can email him at jim@newsuit.net. As always, your host, Max Timm, can be reached at max@networkisa.org for all ISA-related inquiries. Or if you're looking to work one-on-one with Max through his Story Farm Development and Coaching service, you can email him here: max@thestoryfarm.org

Enjoy the interview.

The ISA's Max Timm brings back Karen Kirkland for an inspirational and advice-driven interview that covers the full gamut of the writer, and the writing world. From discussing the importance of utilizing the writing programs and fellowships like the Nickelodeon Writing Program, to what to expect in today's TV marketplace.

Karen Kirkland the VP of the Nickelodeon Writing Program, and a Creative Strategist for writers. She is a champion for all writers, and a true friend to the ISA in that she is always more than willing to offer support, help, and guidance to virtually any writer who comes her way. It's what the ISA does and is proud to continue to do; offer as much support as possible to writers of all levels, and this podcast interview does not disappoint.

This is also an interview designed to promote Karen and her program's involvement in and sponsorship of multiple facets of the ISA from our Third Thursdays social events that occur every month in Los Angeles, Montreal, London, Chicago, and many more cities across the world. Her program also sponsors episodes of the ISA's Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast where the ISA Development Slate executives, Max Timm and Felicity Wren discuss various aspects of the writing world while sipping on some tasty vino.

Karen will also host one the ISA's quarterly panels at Busby's East on Wilshire Blvd in Los Angeles in association with the ISA's Third Thursdays social event. She will be moderating a panel of animation writers, staffed TV writers, and producers who will discuss the current scope of the TV industry, and give invaluable advice to the live audience. That event will be presented as a podcast for those of you who are unable to make it, but the ISA hopes that you can get out, network, and form new professional relationships with writers and the ISA as a whole.

It's important to note that it is rare for ideas and projects to be outright stolen. Far too many of us are far too worried about having their material ripped off, however it is a warranted worry and we understand that your material is your material and, yes, we should be protective of it. We've all heard the horror stories about an idea being taken by some big production company, etc etc. It rarely happens, but it does and really, we hate to break it to you, there isn't all that much we can do about it. BUT...with that being said, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your ideas, so it doesn't hurt to do so. Listen in and enjoy this episode of the ISA's Wine Wednesdays with Felicity Wren and Max Timm.

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are not offered to the participants listening to the recording. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

Join ISA staffers Max Timm and Felicity Wren for our regular Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast. We'll talk screenwriting and take your questions about the ISA and the art, craft, and business of writing screenplays, all while enjoying a nice glass (or two) of wine.

Subjects and themes change from week to week, so stay tuned for the live broadcasts that occur on most Wednesday evening at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.

SYS Episode 186

Joe Taylor talks about writing, directing, and producing his new short film, Last Call.

“Thor: Ragnarok” is one of Marvel Studios’ finest and funniest.

Three films into the Thor franchise, Marvel Studios continues to amaze yet again with this second sequel that is both a fun adventure and funny romp. Director  Taika Waititi and screenwriters Eric Pearson, Craig Kyle and Christopher Yost deliver a constantly surprising and energetic movie full of hilarious twists, vivid new characters, and meaningful conflict. Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Tom Hiddleston, Jeff Goldblum, and the whole cast have a ball onscreen and that joy transfers to the cineplex audience. Compared to the darker and more troubled DC movie universe, Marvel constantly excels by choosing a sunnier path. And in troubled times like these, who couldn’t use a superhero that not only saves the day but lightens it as well?

SYS Episode 185

Aaron B Koontz talks about his latest horror / thriller feature film, Camera Obscura.

Get your pitching skills sharpened with Max Timm and Felicity Wren on this fun Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast.

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are not offered to the participants listening to the recording. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

Join ISA staffers Max Timm and Felicity Wren for our regular Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast. We'll talk screenwriting and take your questions about the ISA and the art, craft, and business of writing screenplays, all while enjoying a nice glass (or two) of wine.

Subjects and themes change from week to week, so stay tuned for the live broadcasts that occur on most Wednesday evening at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.

Want to know how to make a living as a screenwriter? You won't find a more powerful podcast than this, and it's all because of the talented and dedicated Jacob Krueger.

Everybody wants to sell their script, but how are you supposed to know what makes a movie commercial? And how can you sell your screenplay without selling your soul?

The ISA and Jacob Kruger Studio teamed up to bring an informative seminar through the Table Read My Screenplay Contest in Chicago, and it was a huge hit. The ISA and Jacob feel that it's imperative that all writers get to hear this breakdown from Jacob since it's our number 1 objective; support, assist, and cultivate screenwriters at every level.

ISA Team Testimonial on Jacob and his Jacob Krueger Studio for writers:
While you can read Jacob's bio below, the ISA can't say enough about Jacob's professionalism, enthusiasm, spirit, and incredible talent as a mentor. His WriteYourScreenplay.com and Jacob Krueger Studio is truly the best of the best in an industry that is filled with opportunities for writers to work with consultants. Not just a class or a way to learn formula, Jacob and his team focuses on inspiration and creativity, and getting the absolute most out of every single writer they work. The ISA can't thank Jacob enough, and we are proud to call ourselves partners.

Jacob Krueger Official Bio:
Over his years in the entertainment industry, Jacob Krueger has worked with thousands of writers, from Academy and Tony Award Winners, to beginning writers picking up the pen for the first time.  The founder of Jacob Krueger Studio in New York City, Jacob is an award winning screenwriter, playwright, producer and director.

Jacob’s first produced movie, The Matthew Shepard Story (2002) won him the Writers Guild of America Paul Selvin Award and a Gemini Nomination for Best Screenplay.  The NBC film, directed by Roger Spottiswoode (And the Band Played On), and produced by Goldie Hawn, was based on life of gay hate-crime victim Matthew Shepard.  The film won Stockard Channing a SAG Award and her first Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress and Sam Waterston a Gemini Award for Best Supporting Actor.

He has collaborated on original film musicals with Tony Award winning composers Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg (Les Miserables, Miss Saigon) and with four-time Academy Award Composer Michel Legrand (Yentl, The Thomas Crown Affair), as well as a full slate of solo projects ranging from Feature Films to TV Miniseries.

Episode 184

Tony Germinario talks about writing, directing, and producing his latest feature film, Bad Frank.

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are not offered to the participants listening to the recording. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

Join ISA staffers Max Timm and Felicity Wren for our regular Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast. We'll talk screenwriting and take your questions about the ISA and the art, craft, and business of writing screenplays, all while enjoying a nice glass (or two) of wine.

Subjects and themes change from week to week, so stay tuned for the live broadcasts that occur on most Wednesday evening at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.

Episode 183 - John Butler

John Butler talks about his latest film, Handsome Devil, and how he got it produced.

The ISA's Director of Education and Outreach, Max Timm, sits down with industry friend, confidante, and Tracking Board's Director of Operations, Jorge Gonzalez.

Tracking Board has a wealth of success stories that have come from their Launch Pad contests, and Jorge Gonzalez shares his secrets on how to approach the contest circuit, what to expect, and the best way to make the most out of your writing career.

An industry leader in tracking the spec market and offering creatives unmatched information on the current goings-on around town, Max and Jorge delve into how using Tracking Board can assist a writer in his/her approach to navigating the industry as a whole.

If you haven't signed up with Tracking Board yet, what are you waiting for? Go to www.tracking-board.com to find out more.

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are not offered to the participants listening to the recording. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

Join ISA staffers Max Timm and Felicity Wren for our regular Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast as they talk screenwriting and take your questions about the ISA and the art, craft, and business of writing screenplays, all while enjoying a nice glass (or two) of wine.

Subjects and themes change from week to week, so stay tuned for the live broadcasts that occur on most Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.

In this week's podcast:

Jacob Krueger breaks down the structure of Mother! and the three simple screenwriting concepts that make it both succeed and struggle to connect to its audience.

Page 2 Screen talks to two paranormal experts about what constitutes good horror.

If you’re a screenwriter interested in writing horror, you could learn a lot from two ghostbusters. This week’s guests are Scott Markus and Mike Huberty and they’re paranormal experts, as well as horror film aficionados. They talk about what scares them, what films pinned them to their movie seats in fear, and what they think makes a horror film a classic. From tropes to clichés, from Spielberg to Romero, from “Fright Night” to “The Thing”, the discussion will inspire you to write smarter horror, or at the very least, find some scary new titles to rent this Halloween.

Episode 182

Ritchie Greer talks about writing, directing, and producing his latest short film, Los and Found.

Episode 181 - Director / Actor Alexander Nevsky

Alexander Nevsky Talks about his latest action film, Black Rose

“Blade Runner 2049” is a fitting sequel to the cult classic from 1982.

Making a sequel to a classic film is an intimidating task, especially when your follow-up is 35 years after the original. Thus, “Blade Runner 2049” had its work cut out for it. Thankfully, this movie is smart, moody, and a visual feast just like the original “Blade Runner” from 1982. Ryan Gosling brings gravitas to this neo-noir, as does a returning Harrison Ford, but the film around them could use a little more energy. It’s easily 20 minutes too long, and much colder than its predecessor. Still, it has provocative things to say about humanity, just like the first one, and that’s welcome in any year.

EXCERPT FROM THE INTERVIEW:

"...Don’t write for anyone but yourself.  At the end of the day, write the movie that you know you would be super excited to sit down and watch. Don’t think because you read a Blacklist script and saw a certain style being executed in there that that is what people want, so therefore let me write it that way. Or, there is a certain movie that is in vogue right now and let me try to write my version of that. 

Everybody I know, really almost without exception, is a pretty good storyteller in the right circumstances. And so it is really finding the thing that you want to tell another person... I think you always need to be striving towards making something as good as it could be, and the definition of “good as it could be” should be the thing that you would be excited to see. Not what you think other people would be excited to see... make sure that when someone is reading it, they experience an enthusiasm that you had when you first came up with the idea..."

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are not offered to the participants listening to the recording. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

Join ISA staffers Max Timm and Felicity Wren for our regular Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast sponsored by the Nickelodeon Writing Program. We'll talk screenwriting and take your questions about the ISA and the art, craft, and business of writing screenplays, all while enjoying a nice glass (or two) of wine.

Subjects and themes change from week to week, so stay tuned for the live broadcasts that occur on most Wednesday evening at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.

If you would like to learn more about Max's coaching and development service, The Story Farm, please email max@thestoryfarm.org to inquire and ask about options - we have plenty to offer.

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are not offered to the participants listening to the recording. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

Join ISA staffers Max Timm and Felicity Wren for our regular Wine Wednesdays Facebook Live broadcast sponsored by the Nickelodeon Writing Program. We'll talk screenwriting and take your questions about the ISA and the art, craft, and business of writing screenplays, all while enjoying a nice glass (or two) of wine.

Subjects and themes change from week to week, so stay tuned for the live broadcasts that occur on most Wednesday evening at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.

If you would like to learn more about Max's coaching and development service, The Story Farm, please email max@thestoryfarm.org to inquire and ask about options - we have plenty to offer.