Jun 15, 2021
John and Craig welcome back writing partners Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi (The Invitation, Ride Along, The Mysterious Benedict Society) to discuss their transition from film to television. They chat about structuring a full season, adapting a novel, and the hierarchy of power in TV.
We follow up on MoviePass, take a look...
Jun 8, 2021
John and Craig discuss what comes after you land a movie deal–writing the script by a certain date. They offer tips, strategies, and calculations for budgeting time to deliver a draft.
We also consider the statute of limitations on spoiler warnings and follow up on child prodigies, movie theaters and free will....
Jun 1, 2021
John welcomes writer/showrunner Dana Fox (Cruella, Home Before Dark, Isn’t it Romantic), writer/director Jac Schaeffer (WandaVision, Black Widow, Timer), and filmmaker/producer Lance Oppenheim (Some Kind of Heaven) to discuss characters you don’t control. From classic villains, comic book heroes, to real...
May 25, 2021
John and Craig discuss the concept of free will, specifically how it relates to fictional characters. They outline the tightrope screenwriters walk balancing characters with agency against obstacles that feel true.
We also talk about decisions screenwriters face in their careers and why it’s okay (and difficult) to...
May 18, 2021
John and Craig reflect on the traits they’ve noticed in successful writing careers. Should you write everyday? Do you have to be good in a room? Is it more important to be original or flexible?
We also follow up on genres, typos and address a listener question on harassment.
In our bonus segment for premium members,...