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Curious About Screenwriting Network

Welcome to the Curious About Screenwriting Network where you'll enjoy listening to fascinating film and writing industry guests who share insights from their careers and how you can take your screenwriting skills to the next level.
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Now displaying: Page 11
Jun 2, 2020

SYS Episode 329

This Week Ashley Scott Meyers talks with Actor/Producer Jamie Bernadette.

They talk about her latest movie Dead By Dawn (2020). As a Producer, Jamie tells us what gets her involved with certain scripts and what writers should avoid doing with their screenplays

May 30, 2020

SYS Episode 328

This week Ashley Scott Meyers interviews filmmaker Neasa Hardiman.

Topics include how she started in other areas of the film industry, and Sea Fever (2019), a Sci-Fi Horror movie of which she is the Writer-Director.

Neasa Hardiman's other credits include Directing the hit Netflix series Jessica Jones.

May 25, 2020

SYS Episode 324

This week Ashley Scott Meyers talks with Director/Writer/Cinematographer Benjamin Kasulke. His credits include being the Director of Banana Split (2018). Benjamin goes into detail about landing that job and also talks about working as a Cinematographer on acclaimed indie films such as Safety Not Guaranteed (2012).

Safety Not Guaranteed was produced by Mark Duplass and Jay Duplass, with a cast including Aubrey Plaza and Jake Johnson.

May 17, 2020

Ever wonder what you get from the ISA's Connect membership? Take 10 minutes and join Craig James in all of the details and unique benefits that come from the ISA's inexpensive, $10/month upgraded membership - benefits that Basic members do not receive. Here's your chance to get to know all about what you may not know yet.

May 17, 2020

SYS Episode 323

This week Ashley Scott Meyers talks with Jon Adler. 

Jon Adler co-wrote and produced the Thriller Dead Sound (2018) which is based on a horrific true story he and his friends endured. 

He goes into detail about the real events and how they made that vision into a movie.

May 15, 2020

SYS Episode 322

This week Ashley Scott Meyers talks with filmmaker Philip Harder. The focus is his latest credit, being the Writer/Director of the Drama Tuscaloosa (2019). The cast of this movie includes Natalia Dyer (Stranger Things - Netflix TV Series), Tate Donovan and Devon Bostick. Philip Harder also talks about adapting Tuscaloosa from the novel written by Glasgow Phillips.

May 13, 2020

SYS Episode 321

This week Ashley Scott Meyers talks with Filmmaker Brando Benetton.

Brando's credits include writing and directing the short Nightfire (2020). They talk about this action/thriller and how Brando was able to make a lot of production value on a budget.

May 12, 2020

SYS Episode 320

This week Ashley Scott Meyers talks with Actor/Director Eric Etebari about his latest Action / Adventure movie Emerald Run (2020).

Topics include how taking an acting class changed his life and how Directors can create a "Performance Environment" on set.

May 11, 2020

I can’t tell you how excited I am for today’s episode. I had the pleasure to speak to the legendary director Barry Sonnenfeld. We discuss his idiosyncratic upbringing in New York City, his breaking into film as a cinematographer with the Coen brothers, and his unexpected career as the director behind such huge film franchises as The Addams Family and Men in Black, and beloved work like Get Shorty, Pushing Daises, and A Series of Unfortunate Events. We also chat about the time he shot nine porno films in nine days. That story alone is worth the price of admission.

In his new book Barry Sonnenfeld, Call Your Mother: Memoirs of a Neurotic Filmmaker  shares his laugh-out-loud memoir about coming of age. Constantly threatened with suicide by his over-protective mother, disillusioned by the father he worshiped, and abused by a demonic relative, Sonnenfeld somehow went on to become one of Hollywood’s most successful producers and directors.

His book is written with poignant insight and real-life irony, the book follows Sonnenfeld from childhood as a French horn player through graduate film school at NYU, where he developed his talent for cinematography. His first job after graduating was shooting nine feature-length pornos in nine days. From that humble entrée, he went on to form a friendship with the Coen Brothers, launching his career shooting their first three films.

Though Sonnenfeld had no ambition to direct, Scott Rudin convinced him to be the director of The Addams Family. It was a successful career move. He went on to direct many more films and television shows. Will Smith once joked that he wanted to take Sonnenfeld to Philadelphia public schools and say,

“If this guy could end up as a successful film director on big-budget films, anyone can.”


His book is a fascinating and hilarious road map for anyone who thinks they can’t succeed in life because of a rough beginning.

Barry Sonnenfeld’s philosophy is,

“Regret the Past. Fear the Present. Dread the Future.”

This EPIC conversation is almost two hours and had me on the floor laughing one minute and in absolute shock the next. This is by far one of my favorite interviews I have ever done on the show.

So sit back, grab a drink and enjoy my conversation with Barry Sonnenfeld.

May 11, 2020

Note: This is an Indie Film Hustle Podcast episode I wanted to share with you. Be safe out there.

Too many screenwriter’s thinking is based on two months ago. They believe that the world will go back to exactly how it was before on this pandemic blows over. That might be true and I truly hope it does but hope alone will not pay the rent. Our industry is going through an unprecedented shift. If I may quote the Ghostbusters,

Dr. Peter Venkman: This city is headed for a disaster of biblical proportions.
Mayor: What do you mean, “biblical”?
Dr Ray Stantz: What he means is Old Testament, Mr. Mayor, real wrath-of-God type stuff.
Dr. Peter Venkman: Exactly.
Dr Ray Stantz: Fire and brimstone coming down from the skies. Rivers and seas boiling.
Dr. Egon Spengler: Forty years of darkness. Earthquakes, volcanoes…
Winston Zeddemore: The dead rising from the grave.
Dr. Peter Venkman: Human sacrifice, dogs and cats living together – mass hysteria.

We as screenwriters need to start thinking about how we can pivot your business, writing skills, and knowledge into the new reality that we are living in and very well might be in for some time to come.

Things that already are pivoting in the film industry:

  • No theatrical screenings, release on TVOD Premium
  • SXSW teamed with Amazon for a Virtual Film Festival (this could do more harm than good)
  • Drive-ins are making a comeback
  • Can’t screen your film in theaters, set up a virtual screening
  • AMC Theater’s stock has been downgraded and isn’t expected to recover

You have to think about what your customer needs are right now and address them. The companies that are sitting on the sidelines fearful of making any moves will be left behind. You as filmmakers need to change your mindsets. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Entire new industries will rise from this turmoil and if you are smart you will be ready to be a part of the new world.

In this episode, I breakdown some side hustles that will help filmmakers and screenwriters not only survive the pandemic but thrive in the new world we will be walking into.

Screenwriter Side Hustles

  • Write commercially: handbooks, corporate brochures and the like
  • Researchers
  • Blog Writing
  • Write for a website
  • Advertising copywriting
  • Editing copy
  • Write grant applications
  • Offer Gigs on Fiverr
  • Create an Upwork Profile to sell your writing services
  • Create a comic book (partner with an artist) – Could turn this into a short or feature once the air clears

Online Moneymaking Side Hustles

  • Swaybacks.com (Get paid to watch videos)
  • Become a virtual assistant
  • Virtual Tutor (VIP Kid – $14-$22 per hour) Chegg.com
  • Transcribe Audio or video (Rev, Scribe, TigerFish)
  • Review Software (SoftwareJungle)

I go into more detail in the episode. Think outside the box because the box you knew is not coming back. It will be a new box. Don’t be Blockbuster Video and fight to keep what you know while you reject the reality of what is.

Stay safe out there.

Apr 18, 2020

Episode 319

This week's guest is UK filmmaker Francis Annan. 

His latest credit is Escape From Pretoria (2020) starring Daniel Radcliffe. Francis talks about what led to this film getting made and how they were able to cast a star actor such as Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter Franchise). 

During the intro your host Ashley Scott Meyers talks about how he pushed his successful kickstarter over the goal for his feature The Rideshare Killer. 

Apr 18, 2020

Episode 318

This week Ashley Scott Meyers talks with filmmaker Brandon Rhiness.

Topics include how Brandon gets movies made thanks to coming up with stories that only need a few locations. The most recent example of this is the Comedy called Hot Box which he wrote and directed.

Apr 18, 2020

Episode 317

Ashley Scott Meyers talks with Actor and Filmmaker Steven Chase. 

Topics include how Steven Chase wrote a script with his intention to star in it, and how he started making movies in Florida. His credits include Stan The Man (2020) and Shut Up And Kiss Me! (2004). 

Apr 18, 2020

SYS Episode 316

Filmmaker Martin Gooch is back on Selling Your Screenplay Podcast for a third time! In this episode he talks about his latest Sci-Fi action movie Atomic Apocalypse.

Other topics include, making movies in the United Kingdom and the struggles of getting financing for indie film. 

Apr 18, 2020

Today I spoke with Claire Elizabeth Terry, who founded the Rocaberti Writers Retreat, which operates a sort of educational getaway in exotic locations: Medieval castles across Europe!  Writers meet daily with the mentor of their choice, who include Academy award-winning writers, directors and major movie producers - in small groups of just 4 writers, to workshop their project. This is a chance to receive undivided attention and ask questions about anything related to their writing—from their story arc to gaining traction in their writing career to crafting the perfect pitch for an agent or producer.

So consider taking the most exclusive and fun literary ‘vacation’ for furthering your writing and writing career, all while residing in a castle!

Apr 4, 2020

In these strange and difficult times, it's important to be reminded that you are not alone. The ISA is a community of writers and creatives who are all focused on one thing - to create. In spite of how the world is changed in such a short time, creation won't stop - it can't stop. And it is your responsibility as a creative creator to continue working, inspiring, entertaining and, again, creating.

The ISA Founder, Craig James, takes ten minutes with you to remind of the above, but also to remind you of how the ISA can help, and the resources that are still available at your fingertips.

We urge you all to stay as positive as possible, to continue to write, and to be even more patient than ever have been. While you're being patient, the ISA's resources and staff are here for you.

Keep working hard.

Mar 17, 2020

In this episode of “Just Click Submit,” we sit down with Jason Kolinsky from Save the Cat: The Challenge. You know the famed screenwriting book? Well, they’re also on the second year of a respected screenwriting contest as well. Learn more about this great contest, then just click submit!

Mar 13, 2020

We are proud to present the Table Read My Screenplay Park City Grand Prize winning short:

The Nebraska Incident by J Elizabeth Martin

Inspired by true events

Logline: When a mysterious craft crash lands in a rural Nebraska farm, a young girl named Ruth, crippled by polio, discovers that her psychic abilities not only have the power to avert a war, but also give her the confidence to move forward after her debilitating illness. 

Our esteemed actors performing the reading for: 
Doris Morgan - read by JC Sullivan 
Ruth Morgan - Karisa Tate
John Morgan - Max Timm
Captain Hernan Mendoza - James Inez
Narrated by Felicity Wren

Enjoy the experience of listening to contest-winning screenplays, and consider recording your own reading - it can help in so many creative ways, plus it's fun!

www.tablereadmyscreenplay.com

Mar 3, 2020

Episode 314

In this Episode, Producer Jameson Parker talks about many details of the job.

Topics include: Making Pitch Decks (Look Books), working towards a budget and Making a Netflix TV Series. Jameson Parker's credits include the Horror Movie "Summer Of 84", "Prodigals" and the TV streaming series, "Julie and the Phantoms".

Mar 3, 2020

SYS Episode 313

Director York Alec Shackleton talks about the latest movie he directed Disturbing The Peace (2020). This is an Action-Crime film which stars Guy Pearce. York talks about casting Guy Pearce and how he has continued to build a career as an indie filmmaker.

Mar 2, 2020

That time of year when love reigns supreme and we're reminded that our loved ones are all that matters...other than great movie and TV moments, of course! Max and Felicity dive in to their favorite romantic movie moments, ranking their top faves (and surely leaving out some excellent moments by mistake because there are so many). This is a fun review of special on-screen moments to get us into that loving feeling.

Remember, Felicity Wren and Max Timm always have open Q&A during every Facebook Live broadcast, so you should tune in when they broadcast their next live chat. Even though most broadcasts focus on a particular subject, every writer is welcome to ask anything they like at any time. Felicity and Max will do their best to give you a straight and honest answer.

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 no longer available. 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.

You can reach out to Max regarding any type of query: max@networkisa.org If you have particular interest in working with him on a one-on-one coaching and development basis, email him at max@thestoryfarm.org. His Story Farm development and coaching service is quickly becoming the best in the business! Felicity can also be reached at Felicity@networkisa.org. She, too, can work with you one-on-one, so don't hesitate to inquire. We can't wait to support you.

Subjects and themes for the broadcasts change from week to week, so stay tuned 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.

Mar 2, 2020

There is a wealth of information out there for burgeoning screenwriters, but how do you filter through it all? What actually is at your fingertips for you to utilize, not only for educational purposes, but informational resources to help move your career forward? Max and Felicity bring on the ISA's resource manager, Scott Markus, to discuss what the ISA site offers its members, but to also discuss strategy for writers interested in propelling their careers forward in any way possible. Listen in and enjoy!

Remember, Felicity Wren and Max Timm always have open Q&A during every Facebook Live broadcast, so you should tune in when they broadcast their next live chat. Even though most broadcasts focus on a particular subject, every writer is welcome to ask anything they like at any time. Felicity and Max will do their best to give you a straight and honest answer.

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 no longer available. 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.

You can reach out to Max regarding any type of query: max@networkisa.org If you have particular interest in working with him on a one-on-one coaching and development basis, email him at max@thestoryfarm.org. His Story Farm development and coaching service is quickly becoming the best in the business! Felicity can also be reached at Felicity@networkisa.org. She, too, can work with you one-on-one, so don't hesitate to inquire. We can't wait to support you.

Subjects and themes for the broadcasts change from week to week, so stay tuned 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.

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