Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Strategist Kevin Goetz Will Gluck (Director/Producer/Writer) on Directing Hit Comedies & Audience Reactions.
Kevin is joined by director, writer, and producer Will Gluck to discuss crafting comedy on screen and the intricacies of the testing process.
Will Gluck has had an impressive career directing hit comedies like Easy A, Friends with Benefits, the Annie remake, and the Peter Rabbit films. He's also been behind popular TV shows such as The Michael J. Fox Show. In this candid, and often hilarious conversation, Will discusses his journey from TV writer to film director, his process on set, experiences testing movies with audiences, and thoughts on the state of romantic comedies in theaters. Will brings a valuable perspective as an audience-focused director who constantly shapes his films based on feedback. So, whether you're a film buff or just love a good laugh, this conversation with Golden Globe-nominated Will Gluck is a must-listen!
Thoughts on Comedy, Improvising, and Reworking Scenes (3:25)
Will talks about why he gravitated to comedy, his thoughts on improvising, and why he loves to rework scenes.
Catching a Break in Hollywood (8:39)
Will shares a hilarious story of how being a terrible driver for the head of a production company led to him getting his first writing job.
Transitioning to Feature Films and Involving Family in Films Like Easy A, Annie, and Peter Rabbit (16:46)
Kevin and Will discuss Gluck's filmography including Easy A, Friends with Benefits, Annie, and the Peter Rabbit films. Will explains why he chose to make the movies he did, and the important role his family played in those decisions.
Gluck's upcoming movie Anyone But You starring Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney (25:14)
The pair discuss why chemistry between leads is crucial for romantic comedies, and Will talks about casting his new film, Anyone but You.
Working with Tom Rothman and Sony (27:09)
Gluck discusses his long history working with Sony Pictures and executive Tom Rothman.
Film Focus Group Feedback and Evaluation (35:00)
Gluck asks Kevin about screen testing and evaluating audiences. Kevin discusses his commitment to neutral, unbiased test screening reports, and they talk about how even great films get some bad feedback.
Tune in for a fascinating insider's look at the world of test screenings, and Will's experiences in both film and TV. Make sure to check out Will’s upcoming romantic comedy Anyone But You, starring Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney. It offers a glimmer of hope for the struggling genre. Thanks as always to you, our listeners, for joining us on this journey exploring audience research and testing in Hollywood. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. We look forward to bringing you more revelations from behind the scenes next time on Don't Kill the Messenger!
Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Will Gluck
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
For more information about Will Gluck:
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For more information about Kevin Goetz:
- Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
- Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
- How to Score in Hollywood: https://www.amazon.com/How-Score-Hollywood-Secrets-Business/dp/198218986X/
- Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Substack: @KevinGoetz360
- LinkedIn @Kevin Goetz
- Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com