Former senior intelligence officer, John Sipher, discusses his transition to Hollywood, his favorite spy movies, and the fine line between espionage and action-adventure genres. They also delve into creating authentic spy stories, making movies based on books and real-life events, and the challenges and joys of the movie-making business.
Spycraft Entertainment focuses on developing and producing spy-themed content in Hollywood.
Creating compelling characters and engaging narratives are key elements in adapting espionage stories into films and streaming series.
The challenges of the entertainment industry include the optioning process, working with big stars, and finding the right platforms for projects.
Espionage stories intrigue audiences because they offer mystery, international intrigue, and exploration of complex human dynamics.
Deep dives
Building a Production Company in Hollywood
The podcast episode explores how the podcast's hosts have created their own production company in Hollywood, focusing on developing and producing spy-themed content.
Working with Writers and Authors
The hosts discuss their collaboration with various writers and authors to develop and adapt espionage stories into films and streaming series, with a focus on creating compelling characters and engaging narratives.
Navigating the Entertainment Industry
The hosts discuss the challenges and dynamics of the entertainment industry, including the optioning process, working with big stars, and finding the right platforms for their projects.
The Appeal of Espionage Stories
The hosts explore why espionage stories are intriguing to audiences, offering a combination of mystery, international intrigue, and the exploration of complex human dynamics.
Investors in Hollywood
The podcast discusses why investors are interested in funding movie projects in Hollywood. It explores the different motivations investors have, including the desire to be associated with the glamour of the industry and the potential for financial success. While investing in Hollywood can be a gamble, some individuals are willing to take the risk for the unique opportunities and experiences it offers.
Controversy over CIA-Filmmaker Collaboration
The podcast delves into the controversy surrounding the collaboration between the CIA and filmmakers regarding the movie 'Zero Dark Thirty.' The debate revolves around the extent of cooperation between the CIA and the filmmakers, with some critics claiming that the CIA provided classified information to create a positive portrayal of the agency. However, others argue that the collaboration was necessary to accurately depict an important moment in history. The discussion explores the complex ethical considerations involved in such collaborations.
The Creative Process in Filmmaking
The podcast explores the creative process in filmmaking, highlighting the importance of storytelling and authenticity. It emphasizes the appeal of telling real stories and adapting them into films, either as true stories or by reimagining real events. The podcast also touches on the challenges of adapting true stories while maintaining ethical boundaries and ensuring the protection of sensitive information. It recognizes that storytelling in fiction can sometimes allow for a more truthful exploration of complex issues compared to traditional journalism.
Misperceptions about Espionage and Filmmaking
In this segment, the podcast discusses the misperceptions surrounding espionage and filmmaking. It reveals that misperceptions often arise due to the secretive nature of intelligence work and the complexity of the film industry. The podcast highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of both professions and the challenges they face. It emphasizes that intelligence work is a delicate balancing act, while filmmaking involves navigating risks and making creative choices. The discussion calls for a more accurate portrayal and appreciation of the work done in espionage and filmmaking.
This week, we're taking time off for the holidays, so we reached into the Chatter archives for one of our favorites.
In this episode from January 13, 2022, Shane Harris and David Priess teamed up to talk with John Sipher, a former senior intelligence officer who has gone Hollywood. With his partners at Spycraft Entertainment, John is bringing compelling and, yes, accurate stories about espionage to the screen. Before working in the entertainment industry, he spent 28 years in the CIA, where he served multiple overseas tours as a chief of station. Shane, David, and John talked about their favorite spy movies, the fine line between the espionage and action-adventure genres, and the kinds of stories they’d like to see more of.
Chatter is a production of Lawfare and Goat Rodeo. This episode was produced and edited by Cara Shillenn of Goat Rodeo, with engineering assistance from Ian Enright. Podcast theme by David Priess, featuring music created using Groovepad.
