Advertise on podcast: The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

In this episode, Geoffrey and Kristy lighten things up after a heavy week and dive into what’s happening in movies right now. From walking out of Super Mario Bros 2 to breaking down why fan service is starting to replace real storytelling, this conversation gets honest about where the industry is heading. They also explore why adaptations like Project Hail Mary are resonating with audiences, how the Hero’s Journey is still alive and well, and answer real screenwriting questions from listeners. If you’ve been frustrated with modern films or wondering how to sharpen your own writing, this episode gives you clarity and direction. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why fan service is replacing story in major IP filmsThe problem with introducing characters too late in a scriptWhy faithful adaptations like Project Hail Mary workThe truth about the Hero’s Journey and why it never diesHow to write stronger characters in short filmsBest practices for writing love scenes in today’s industryHow to approach a 48-hour film festival scriptWhy you don’t need Hollywood to succeed as a screenwriterKey Moments 00:20 – Opening and shift to a lighter episode00:55 – Geoffrey walks out of Mario Bros 2 and why02:14 – The rise of fan service over storytelling06:52 – Why Project Hail Mary connects with audiences14:34 – “The Hero’s Journey is dead?” debateAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker and storyteller working across multiple formats, including the fast-growing vertical content space. She brings both creative and production insight into modern storytelling trends and industry shifts. About the Host With 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 Episode Project Hail MaryInterstellarThe MartianReady or Not 2They Will Kill YouConnect with Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife 🎬 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!

Listener discretion is advised. Episode contains discussion of mental health and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support. In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Geoffrey shares his recent experience being hospitalized for mental health and suicidal ideation. What starts as a shocking revelation turns into an honest, raw conversation about depression, trauma, and the silent struggles many creatives face. Together with co-host Kristy Leigh, this episode explores what it feels like to hit a breaking point, what happens inside a psychiatric hospital, and why seeking help is not weakness but survival. If you’ve ever felt alone, overwhelmed, or like you’re not enough, this conversation is for you. This isn’t just about screenwriting. It’s about staying here. If this episode reaches one person who needs it, it’s done its job. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The difference between sadness and high-functioning depressionWhat really happens during a psychiatric hospital stayWhy many creatives feel isolated despite outward successHow “masking” hides internal strugglesThe importance of support systems during mental health crisesWhy seeking help is a strength, not a weaknessHow writing can serve as a lifeline during dark momentsKey Moments 00:23 – Episode introduction and unexpected reveal00:49 – Geoffrey shares he was planning suicide03:19 – Inside the psychiatric hospital experience05:51 – Why people don’t reach out when they’re struggling08:33 – The reality of masking and hidden depression11:25 – Why writing became a saving grace11:43 – The importance of the 988 crisis lineAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker, writer, and creative collaborator who brings honesty and empathy to conversations about storytelling and life in the industry. As Geoffrey’s co-host, she helps guide meaningful discussions that go beyond craft and into the human experience behind it. About the Host With 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 Episode Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988Local mental health professionals and support groupsConnect with Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch Kristy’s vertical drama: The-Witch-Wolfs-MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriterYou’re not alone in this journey. #MentalHealthAwareness #ScreenwritingLife #CreativeStruggles #DepressionAwareness #FilmmakerLife #WritersJourney #YouAreNotAlone #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!

Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh return from a short hiatus with exciting news: they’re officially launching their new vertical series. In this episode, they discuss what it’s like to move from talking about filmmaking to actually producing a project together, including casting, crew building, and preparing for production. They also dive into a major industry shakeup involving the rumored Paramount and Warner Bros. consolidation, what it could mean for creators, and why the rise of vertical storytelling platforms may open new doors for independent filmmakers and screenwriters. Plus, Geoffrey and Kristy answer listener questions about writer’s block, creative doubt, genre preferences, writing habits, and surprising books that deserve film adaptations. If you're a screenwriter navigating the changing entertainment landscape, this conversation is packed with insight and perspective. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy vertical series may become a major opportunity for indie filmmakersThe difference between talking about filmmaking and actually producing a projectHow to break through writer’s block and restart creative momentumWhy self-doubt is normal for writers at every level of their careerHow major media mergers could reshape the future of film and televisionThe value of writing habits and routines for maintaining productivityKey Moments 00:20 – Geoffrey and Kristy return from hiatus and tease their new vertical series 02:05 – The origin of Elsy and why Geoffrey revived the script now 03:46 – The rumored vertical storytelling platforms for indie filmmakers 12:55 – Breaking through writer’s block and finding creative flow 19:20 – Should writers focus on one project or juggle multiple scripts? 22:33 – Dealing with doubt as a screenwriter 26:29 – Writing nonfiction stories and handling sensitive personal material About the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a screenwriter, filmmaker, and creative collaborator who works across multiple genres including horror and drama. She has experience in independent film production, writing, and on-set collaboration, and regularly shares insights into the filmmaking process with the screenwriting community. About the Host With 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 EpisodeVertical storytelling platforms and mobile-first contentHBO series PrimalConnect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka Watch Kristy’s vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's Mate Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/screenwriterpod YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #ScreenwritingPodcast #ScreenwritingTips #VerticalSeries #Filmmaking #IndieFilmmaker #Scriptwriting #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #WritingCommunity 🎬 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 308, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and co-host Kristy Leigh Lussier dig into one of the biggest shifts happening in film right now: the rise of YouTubers as box office draws. Using Iron Lung as a case study, they unpack how creator-driven films are outperforming studio releases, why Hollywood is resisting transparency around indie success, and what this power shift means for filmmakers. They also tackle persistent screenwriting myths about page numbers and beat timing, break down writer’s block from a neurological perspective, and have a candid conversation about how AI should and should not be used in the writing process. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy YouTubers are now the real box office starsHow Iron Lung succeeded as a low-budget, single-location indieThe truth about page numbers, beat sheets, and rigid structure rulesWhy writer’s block is often a physical response, not a creative failureHow AI can support writers without replacing themKey Moments00:20 – Seeing Iron Lung and why it works as contained horror02:25 – Why studios won’t release indie box office numbers04:22 – YouTubers as the new movie stars and marketing engines10:16 – The myth of hitting exact beats on exact page numbers22:23 – How AI should be used to help writers, not replace themAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker, producer, and screenwriter working in today’s independent film space. She brings a grounded, real-world perspective to writing craft, production realities, and industry shifts, especially where new media and traditional filmmaking collide. About the Host With 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 EpisodeIron LungMarkiplierFive Nights at Freddy’sSnowpiercerThe Guide for Every ScreenwriterScreenplayStoryThe Writer’s JourneyConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical Drama: The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#ScreenwritingPodcast #IndieFilm #IronLung #YouTubersInFilm #FilmIndustry #WriterLife #ScreenwritingAdvice #Filmmaking 🎬 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, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by co-host Kristy Leigh to unpack what Five Nights at Freddy’s 1 & 2 reveal about the current state of Hollywood storytelling. What happens when IP, fan service, and box office data matter more than narrative coherence? Is this the future of studio filmmaking, and if so, where does that leave screenwriters who still care about story? The conversation expands into the larger industry landscape, including Netflix’s dominance, data-driven decision making, the Stranger Things finale controversy, and what writers should realistically prepare for moving forward. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 abandons traditional storytelling in favor of fan serviceHow studios are prioritizing IP and data over narrative cohesionThe difference between box office success and storytelling successWhy the Stranger Things finale struggled and what writers can learn from itPractical advice for new writers developing loglines and short storiesWhere story-driven filmmakers still fit in today’s industryKey Moments00:25 – Geoffrey watches Five Nights at Freddy’s and immediately senses something is off03:00 – Kristy explains how fan service overtook story in the sequel07:00 – Geoffrey breaks down why the sequel has no clear plot or rules09:45 – Is Hollywood splitting into data-driven content vs story-driven films?15:00 – Why the Stranger Things finale failed structurally17:40 – Advice for writers handwriting drafts vs typing19:00 – How to turn loglines and short stories into real screenplaysAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh Lussier is a producer, filmmaker, and longtime co-host of The Successful Screenwriter. She brings a grounded, industry-aware perspective to conversations about storytelling, IP adaptations, and the shifting realities of modern filmmaking. About the Host With 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 EpisodeFive Nights at Freddy’s (Film Franchise)Netflix industry data and subscriber growthStranger Things behind-the-scenes documentaryA24 and Neon as story-first distributorsConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical Drama: The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #HollywoodTrends #StoryStructure #ScreenwritersLife #PodcastForWriters 🎬 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 306, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier kick things off with a passionate recommendation for the absurd, whimsical thriller-comedy Dust Bunny, then pivot into what writers are feeling right now in the marketplace. They talk about how distributors are shifting toward data-driven “checkbox” content, why star power is not the safety net it used to be, and what that means for screenwriters trying to break in consistently. Then they get into some industry tea, including the rumors swirling around Stranger Things Season 5 and AI, and zoom out into a practical craft debate: is a “vomit draft” (or as a listener calls it, “Draft Zero”) actually the best path to finishing scripts and getting to the rewrite where the real work happens. The episode wraps with audience questions about getting a manager and what to do if you can see scenes in your head but struggle to get them onto the page. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why finishing a rough first draft is often the fastest path to a strong scriptWhat distributors and streamers want right now, and why it is increasingly data-drivenHow to think about concept clarity and producibility without losing your voicePractical ways to network with managers that do not feel transactionalA simple mindset shift that keeps you from rewriting the first 20 pages foreverKey Moments 00:18 Dust Bunny: why Geoffrey calls it a rare “whimsical absurd” gem02:00 Visual subtext and symbolism in Dust Bunny, plus the “unreliable narrator” question05:13 AFM market shift: why actor names are not carrying films like they used to10:01 Stranger Things Season 5 AI rumors and the spectrum of AI use in writing15:45 “Bad advice” spotlight: why the vomit draft (Draft Zero) still mattersAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is Geoffrey’s longtime co-host and a sharp voice on screenwriting craft, industry trends, and the reality of building a writing career one draft at a time. About the Host With 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 Episode Dust Bunny (rented on Amazon Prime)Brian Fuller (discussion of his work including Pushing Daisies and Hannibal)Big Eyes (referenced as an example tied to credit and authorship)Draft Zero (listener Gary Thomas’s preferred term for the “vomit draft”)Geoffrey’s book: The Guide for Every ScreenwriterConnect with Kristy Instagram:@kantoka127Vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website:thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #screenwriter #writingcommunity #screenwritingtips #screenwritinglife #filmmaking #filmindustry #writingprocess #firstdraft #rewrite Tags  🎬 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 305 Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by Kristy Leigh Lussier for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, tone, franchise arcs, and industry realities, and taking a gig you don't love. From horror movies about rabid chimpanzees to why darker sequels often resonate more deeply, this episode blends craft analysis, industry news, and practical screenwriting advice straight from the trenches. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy tonal shifts in sequels can strengthen a franchiseWhat Wicked: Part Two gets right that surprises non-musical fansThe storytelling mistake that doomed the 2011 Conan the Barbarian remakeHow long-form character arcs deepen emotional investmentPractical answers to audience screenwriting questions about dialogue, pitching, and career choicesKey Moments00:00–03:30 – Reviewing Wicked: Part Two and the power of darker second acts05:00–07:30 – Franchise arcs and why Harry Potter matures with its audience08:20–10:30 – The original vs. remake debate: Conan the Barbarian vs. the 2011 reboot10:45–12:30 – Industry Snapshot: MTV officially exits the music-video era14:20–18:20 – Listener Q&A: multilingual dialogue and writing outside your favorite genre19:30–22:40 – What actually happens after a successful pitch and why lawyers matterAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh Lussier is a producer, writer, and script consultant known for her sharp story instincts and deep understanding of character-driven storytelling. She brings thoughtful insight into franchise structure, tonal control, and navigating the industry with clarity. About the Host With 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 Successful Screenwriter Membership (TV pilot course)Entertainment lawyers and contract basics for writersFranchise case studies: Harry Potter, Wicked, Conan the BarbarianConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical Drama: The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #ScreenwritingPodcast #FilmIndustry #StoryStructure #TVWriting #ScreenwriterLife #FilmAnalysis 🎬 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 304, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and co-host Kristy Leigh kick off the new year with a wide-ranging conversation about endings, franchises, and the evolving business shaping how stories get made. From reactions to the finale of Stranger Things and Avatar 3, to a deep dive into the Netflix–Warner Bros–Paramount power struggle, this episode explores how data, algorithms, and vertical platforms are redefining opportunities for screenwriters. They also break down bad screenwriting advice, vertical storytelling trends, and what writers should focus on heading into the year ahead. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy darker, more definitive endings often resonate more with audiencesHow James Cameron writing Avatar 2 and 3 as one script impacted the storytellingWhy the real battle between Netflix, Warner Bros., and Paramount is about data, not just IPHow algorithms are influencing what gets greenlit and how scripts are shapedWhy features, thrillers, and horror still offer strong opportunities for writersHow vertical storytelling is evolving beyond romance into new genresKey Moments02:49 – Why Avatar 3 works better than Avatar 206:46 – The Netflix–Warner Bros–Paramount data war explained16:58 – Bad screenwriting advice: “Nothing needs to happen in the first 10 pages”19:30 – How to hook readers in the first page, not the first act22:22 – How algorithms are already shaping vertical storytellingAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh Lussier is a writer, producer, and vertical drama creator known for her sharp industry insights and hands-on experience in emerging storytelling platforms. She co-hosts The Successful Screenwriter Podcast and regularly works at the intersection of traditional film, streaming, and vertical content. About the Host With 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 EpisodeUnderwaterHouse of CardsVertical drama platforms and TikTok mini-series trendsConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical Drama: The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #ScreenwritingPodcast #FilmIndustry #VerticalDrama #IndieFilm #ScreenwritingAdvice #FilmBusiness #Storytelling  🎬 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!

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 Host With 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 host Kristy 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 Host With 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 Host With 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 at https://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 Episode How 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 Moments 00:20 – 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 CoHost Kristy 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 Host With 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 Episode The Guide For Every ScreenwriterFive Nights at Freddy’s 2Wicked For GoodInkTipScreenX and 4D style theatrical screeningsConnect with Guest Kristy on Instagram:@kantoka127Kristy’s vertical drama The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: 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 Moments 00:20 Jesse explains the origin of The Daughters of the Domino 02:50 How he structured a stress-free Kickstarter with digital perks 05:40 Storyboarding every shot using Cine Tracer 07:00 The first-day disaster and managing crew expectations 10:26 On-set rewrites after discovering new opportunities in performance About the Guest Jesse 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 Host With 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 Guest Instagram: @jessemcanally Website: https://www.jessemcanally.com Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com Instagram: @screenwriterpod YouTube: @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 style What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why 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 Moments 00:20 300th episode giveaway teaser 00:57 Predator: Badlands, empathy for a Predator, and theme talk 08:30 Breaking down the “audience must be ahead” myth 11:59 Why dialogue doesn’t always need action underneath 20:48 When breaking format is smart instead of sloppy About the Guest Kristy 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 Host With 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 Episode Predator: Badlands Prey Deathstalker Pearl Harbor (screenplay example) Star Wars Episode III fight scene Connect with Kristy Kristy on Instagram: @kantoka127 Kristy’s vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs Mate Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com Instagram:@screenwriterpod YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter If 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 Episode How 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 Moments 00:37 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 Guest Kristy 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 Host With 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 Episode The Running Man (1987)The new Running ManGuillermo del Toro’s FrankensteinScript Leads blog on TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.comConnect with Guest: Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Vertical drama The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: 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!