

Harris Goldberg: The Intersection of Art and Economics in Film
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff sits down with the multifaceted Harris Goldberg, a seasoned figure in the film and television industry, whose credits extend from screenwriting and directing to teaching the next generation of creatives at esteemed institutions such as UCLA and McMaster University. You may recognize his work as producer for Deuce Bigelow, Happy Gilmore, Without a Paddle and many others. Harris's extensive career, boasting an impressive portfolio that includes a multi-picture deal with Disney and collaborations with notable names in comedy, positions him as an undeniable authority in content creation and entertainment economics.
Throughout the conversation, Harris shares invaluable insights that bridge the gap between economic theories and the arts.
Talking Points:
- The Evolution of the Film Industry
- Financial Realities and Creative Challenges
- Personal Finance and Career Longevity
This is a rare opportunity to understand the complexities of an industry often shrouded in glamour, through the lens of economics. Whether you're an aspiring artist, a film enthusiast, or an economics student, this is a dialogue that illuminates the intricate dance between creativity and cost, passion and profit, dreams, and reality.
Time Stamps:
- 00:00 Exploring economics and success in film industry.
- 07:17 Starting a business requires passion and perseverance.
- 12:42 Movies made money through theaters, international sales, DVDs.
- 19:08 In the past, pitching ideas landed writing jobs.
- 25:48 Studios often struggle to predict success.
- 29:02 Navigating Hollywood's competitive talent pool for projects.
- 36:06 Most movies don't stand out, except few.
- 37:58 Unlikely start as writer, trip to LA.
- 44:29 Early years were spent pleasing others as writer.
- 50:12 Friend from Goldman called about tax issue.
- 55:55 We said, comedic deliverance, big movie idea.
- 01:00:33 Passion drives creativity
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Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
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