In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins sits down with writer-director Drew Hancock to discuss his journey to directing his feature debut, Companion. Drew shares how he built his career through persistence, taking creative risks, and, as he puts it, a fair amount of luck. He also reflects on finding success later in his career, how imposter syndrome nearly led him to quit, and the importance of self-awareness for filmmakers navigating the industry.

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Drew Hancock discuss:

The unconventional path Drew took from being a movie theater employee to a feature director
Why Channel 101 played a pivotal role in his development as a filmmaker
How Companion started as a writing sample and evolved into a feature film
The role of luck and timing in getting a project greenlit in Hollywood
Why filmmakers need to continuously create new work rather than banking on a single project
Drew’s writing process and how working on multiple projects at once helps combat writers block
The importance of self-awareness and confidence in overcoming career obstacles

Memorable Quotes:

“I mean, I’m an old man, so it’s a long, long, long journey that got me to this place right now. But the beginnings were just… I was a super fan of movies.” (2:32)
“I wish I really, really wish that luck didn’t play such a huge part of making entertainment, but yeah, it has a lot to do with timing.” (22:53)
“Every couple years, sit down and ask yourself: Are you where you want to be? If you’re not, what can you do to get there? Take stock. Measure the gap. And then do everything you can to close it.” (47:00)
“Imposter syndrome is real. I almost gave up before Companion. I really almost did.” (46:02)
“Make something. Don’t make it about a film festival or about getting recognition. Make it about something you care about deeply.” (38:51)

Resources:

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