The Screenwriting Life with Meg LeFauve and Lorien McKenna

Brent Forrester, a comedy writer and producer known for hits like The Simpsons and The Office, shares his journey from self-doubt to successful comedy master. He emphasizes the importance of studying comedy like a science and encourages aspiring writers to embrace authenticity. The conversation touches on overcoming challenges in the writing process, the significance of community support, and crafting character-driven humor. With insights from his iconic career, Brent inspires listeners to navigate their creative journeys and tackle self-doubt head-on.

JOIN TSL WORKSHOPS: https://tslworkshops.circle.soYou are not alone, and keep writing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WATCH LOS FRIKIS: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Los-Frikis/0H49M436MMS223JUKJ26Q95EKJREAD ALONG: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a3QojbCeXG11xowk5u6y-RONQhCSguwG/view?usp=drive_linkTyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz are the first to admit "they're not the cool kids." Their widely celebrated debut THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON was bootstrapped by grit, hard work, and a ferocious commitment to making something authentic, and that same spirit fills every frame of their follow-up film, LOS FRIKIS. Like the filmmakers themselves, the movie follows a group of lovable outsiders finding their own way to make beautiful art in a system that opposes it. In today's conversation with Jeffrey Crane Graham, they discuss how filmmaking is like building a house: pre-production is a blueprint, production is about "collecting lumber," and post-production is an act of construction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are launching a brand new monthly BONUS show this Thursday in feed, hosted by our producer Jeffrey Crane Graham. Don't miss it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JOIN TSL WORKSHOPS: https://tslworkshops.circle.soWhether you're on your billionth draft, or stuck in post on a docuseries, finding a connective THEME to tell your story is one of the most valuable ways to create a cohesive and satisfying story. Today's guest, John Henion, understands that better than anyone. His impressive career as an episodic documentary filmmaker includes shows like CHEF'S TABLE and WELCOME TO WREXHAM, but whatever the project may be, John tells us how it always comes down to finding the emotional center of your story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JOIN TSL WORKSHOPS: https://twslworkshops.circle.soThe Molyneux Sisters (BOB’S BURGERS, THE GREAT NORTH) believe that character is at the center of all great comedy. For Wendy and Lizzie, specificity, character quirks, and close observations about the friends (and strangers) around them will always provide the cocktail for a great character. Hear about how these two found their voice, honed their craft, and became important voices in the world of adult animation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a lively discussion, George Saunders, the Booker Prize-winning author known for his unique storytelling talent and popular Substack, shares his insights on the craft of writing. He explores the delicate dance between creativity and structure, emphasizing the importance of authentic character development. Saunders also reflects on the role of personal experiences in storytelling, drawing inspiration from Lincoln's grief. He candidly addresses challenges like writer's block and the often tricky balance between audience expectations and genuine expression in creative work.

In this lively discussion, Hollywood writer Dana Fox, known for her work on 'Cruella' and 'Wicked', candidly admits that writing feels "REALLY torturous" for her. She shares her strategies for overcoming writer's block and the pressures of creative storytelling. Dana dives into the delicate balance of adapting beloved material like 'Wicked' while making it fresh for new audiences. Plus, she reveals the secrets of crafting emotional narratives and impactful dialogue, and navigates the complexities of pitching in the competitive screenwriting world.

JOIN TSL WORKSHOPS: https://tslworkshops.cricle.soFor decades, if you wanted to make it as a Hollywood writer, the first step was simple: move to Hollywood. But increasingly, screenwriters have found that they're able to create and foster screenwriting careers outside of Los Angeles. Two folks who have done that successfully, Will Fetters and Chris Sparling, join us today to talk about the practical logistics of making your Hollywood writing career work no matter where you live. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Malcolm Washington, co-writer and director of the film adaptation of August Wilson's The Piano Lesson, and Virgil Williams, an Oscar-nominated writer known for Mudbound, discuss the unique challenges of adapting a beloved play into film. They share their creative process, emphasizing collaboration and the balance between personal stories and thematic depth. The duo also highlights the importance of character development and narrative conflict, revealing how their backgrounds influence their storytelling. Their passionate commitment to honoring Wilson's legacy shines through.