Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Strategist Kevin Goetz

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin Goetz is joined by veteran Hollywood producer Hawk Koch. With over 50 years in the movie business, Koch has countless stories to share from his prolific career working on classic films like Chinatown, Marathon Man, Heaven Can Wait, and Wayne's World. He offers a rare insider's perspective on working with icons like Clark Gable, Ingrid Bergman, Jimmy Stewart, Jackie Gleason, and Barbra Streisand. Koch also provides wisdom on key lessons he's learned about the importance of telling the truth, taking care of people in the industry, and establishing your own identity.What’s in a Name? (6:49)Koch talks about changing his name at age 50 when he was bar mitzvahed, taking on the nickname "Hawk" to establish his own identity apart from his famous father, producer Howard W. Koch.Riding Horses with Clark Gable (17:28)Koch reminisces about getting his first horseback ride from Clark Gable as a young boy on a movie set. He describes feeling Gable's warmth and humanity in that brief interaction.Working with Legends (20:25)Koch shares his experience working with and being intimidated by classic actors like Jimmy Stewart and Ingrid Bergman early in his career.Icon Lightning Round (24:01)Kevin asks Hawk to give his quick impressions of industry figures he's worked with like Roman Polanski, Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway, and Barbara Streisand.Getting His Start in Music (28:11)Hawk discusses how he got his start working in music, touring with The Dave Clark Five and getting to watch recording sessions with Frank Sinatra.Taking Care of “Family” (33:43)Koch talks about his dedication to the Motion Picture and Television Fund, taking care of people in the entertainment industry. He shares why it is important to him.Taming Faye Dunaway’s Hair (35:33)Koch tells a funny story about shooting Chinatown and director Roman Polanski pulling Faye Dunaway's hair out when it kept sticking up in a shot.Best Advice Ever Received (38:05)Koch stresses the importance of telling the truth in the movie business and not trying to mislead people.Tune in as Hawk Koch shares stories that capture the golden era of Hollywood history through his interactions with legends on set and off. But beyond the celebrity anecdotes, his emphasis on truth, care for others, and finding one's path contain valuable lessons for those both inside and outside the entertainment world. 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 GoetzGuest: Hawk KochProducer: Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoFor more information about Hawk Koch:Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawk_KochIMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0462242/Magic Time: 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

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by the President of TriStar Pictures, Nicole BrownJoin host Kevin Goetz as he engages Nicole Brown in a conversation about her career evolution from child actor to President of TriStar Pictures. Tracing her early acting jobs to producing and executive roles, Brown imparts thoughtful wisdom on creative collaboration, test screenings, and keeping audiences engaged. She shares insights on balancing bold artistic visions with commercial success, studio involvement, and the importance of innovation. From her experiences shepherding original films like The Woman King, Baby Driver, and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Brown offers revelations on what goes into crafting compelling films. She also has advice for emerging talent looking to push the industry forward.Early Life and Career (4:23)Brown describes getting bitten by the acting bug as a child growing up in Culver City, California. She began booking commercials and roles in shows she watched on TV. She reflects on how quickly acting went from an extracurricular activity to a central part of her young life.Transition to Producing (6:05)When Brown attended Columbia University, she began realizing that she derived more joy from facilitating creative projects behind the scenes than being on camera.Internship with Marc Platt (11:08)After college, Brown landed a career-changing summer internship with powerhouse producer Marc Platt. She sat in on his meetings at a major studio and soaked up his openness to ideas.Insights on Studio-Filmmaker Collaboration (19:24)Brown stresses that every film requires a different type of creative dance between the studio and the director. She notes that the studio's level of involvement often depends on the director's proven track record and the film's genre.The Origin Story of The Woman King (25:16)Brown traces how the idea for The Woman King originated when Viola Davis approached her eager to play a fierce African general leading an elite female army.Elements of Successful Theatrical Films in a Changing Landscape (31:19)Brown believes today's films require a sense of spectacle, urgency, and relevance that makes audiences eager to experience them immediately on the big screen.The Power of Test Screenings (36:28)Brown values seeing real audiences experience a film during test screenings. Beyond just the questionnaire data, she learns a great deal from the crowd's audible reactions and body language.Advice to Emerging Talent (40:21)Brown urges the next generation to fully immerse themselves in cinematic history and all forms of storytelling. But she also challenges them to then throw out the rulebook and bring completely new, bold ideas to revolutionize filmmaking.Tune in as host Kevin Goetz and Nicole Brown unpack valuable filmmaking lessons.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Nicole BrownProducer: Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoFor more information about 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

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by producer and former head of Paramount Pictures, Marc EvansMarc Evans is a highly respected studio executive with over 25 years of experience in the film industry. Evans worked his way up in Hollywood, becoming President of the Motion Picture Group at Paramount Pictures. In this role, Evans oversaw the creative development and production of major blockbuster films like Mission: Impossible, Transformers, and Star Trek franchises. He has worked closely with top directors including J.J. Abrams, Michael Bay, David Fincher, and Martin Scorsese. Evans provides unique insights into greenlighting films and shares some behind-the-scenes stories of mistakes and triumphs during his studio tenure. After leaving Paramount, Evans founded his own production company Marc Evans Productions which has already scored hits with Netflix's The Mother starring Jennifer Lopez, and action movie The Old Guard. The value of chaos (3:08)Kevin and Marc recall what could have been a disastrous experience of his audience being canceled for a test screening of a major studio film.Early days at Paramount Pictures (5:43)Marc talks about his early days at Paramount working as an assistant for producer Julia Chasman and executive Nick Wexler, and working with legendary producer Laura Ziskin on the first Spider-Man films.Giving blockbusters heart (12:52)Marc shares what screenwriter Alvin Sargent told him about "the pleasure of making something big good" in regards to blockbuster franchise films.Reshooting World War Z (22:59)Marc and Kevin discuss what went wrong with the original cut of World War Z and why they had to redo 40 minutes of the film, and how the resulting film resonated better with audiences.Baywatch and Monster Trucks (25:25)Marc shares why the Baywatch movie failed to connect with audiences. The pair then discuss how Monster Trucks might have worked better as a smaller family film rather than pushing it as a major tentpole release.Marc Evans Productions (31:54)Marc discusses his recent production successes including The Mother starring Jennifer Lopez, The Old Guard starring Charlize Theron, and Instant Family starring Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne. He shares that the common theme in these movies is a strong emotional core.Marc Evans has worked on some of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters of the last 20 years. His candid perspectives on succeeding - and occasionally stumbling - reveal thoughtful lessons for creating films that truly resonate with audiences. Evans believes in always staying connected to the emotional core in every project. 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 GoetzGuest: Marc EvansProducer: Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoFor 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

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by prolific comedy director, writer, and producer, Steve CarrGo behind the laughs with comedy director Steve Carr as he joins host Kevin Goetz for a lively and enlightening conversation. With hit movies like Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Daddy Day Care, and Dr. Dolittle 2 under his belt, Steve has mastered the art of crafting crowd-pleasing and enduring comedies. In this episode, you'll gain insight into Steve's journey from directing hip-hop videos in the 90s to directing comedic blockbusters. Steve also offers thoughtful perspectives on the state of comedy films today.Movies as comfort food (3:57)Steve shares a story about John Travolta, and Kevin and Steve discuss how movies like Paul Blart, Mall Cop can be like “chicken soup for the soul.”Nerves and laughs for Next Friday (09:42)Steve recounts the magical experience of hearing audiences roar with laughter at his first feature film comedy Next Friday.The state of comedy (19:46)Steve and Kevin give their opinions on why big-screen comedies are struggling lately.A change in focus (21:57)Steve shares how he's pivoting to writing more original scripts and producing in light of changes in the comedy landscape.Producing vs. directing (24:08)Steve details his experience independently producing a gritty, low-budget film and the lessons learned.Comedic influences (26:16)Steve lists his biggest comedic influences growing up, including Mel Brooks, The Odd Couple, and "Police Squad."Tune in for a fascinating conversation as Steve Carr shares tales from decades in Hollywood that reveal both the exhilaration of making people laugh and the challenges facing the genre today. Through it all, Steve retains his authentic humor and commitment to quality comedy with heart. 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 GoetzGuest: Steve CarrProducer: Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoFor more information about Steve Carr:Web: https://www.stevecarrdirector.com/Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_CarrIMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0139867/For more information about Kevin Goetz:Website: www.KevinGoetz360.comAudienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360Linked In @Kevin GoetzScreen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com  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

Terry Press is a celebrated entertainment marketing veteran and former CBS Films President, known for her work on iconic films like American Beauty and Gladiator. She shares her early love for classic Hollywood and how emotional storytelling drives successful films. Press offers behind-the-scenes insights, revealing why she remained confident in American Beauty despite mixed audience tests. Additionally, she discusses her strategic marketing of Gladiator to attract female audiences and the complexities of creative conflicts between filmmakers and marketers.

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin 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 GoetzGuest: Will GluckProducer:  Kari CampanoWriters:  Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoFor more information about Will Gluck:InstagFor 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

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Academy Award-nominated producer and President of Mattel Films, Robbie Brenner who helped reinvent Barbie and create a contemporary movie classic. Robbie produced the record-breaking blockbuster movie Barbie and has had an illustrious career making acclaimed films including Dallas Buyers Club, for which she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture and that went on to win three Academy Awards. We'll hear Robbie's insider stories of how Barbie went from an idea that seemed destined to fail to the biggest comedy hit in years. She also shares her war stories guiding Barbie through development and testing, while creating the bold creative vision needed to reinvent an iconic brand by bringing on director Greta Gerwig at the suggestion of Margot Robbie. Robbie Brenner also shares her vision for Mattel Films and insight into her upcoming projects.Getting Barbie Off the Ground (8:00)Robbie shares the early development process for Barbie, and why Kevin initially thought it would fail.The High Heel and the Birkenstock (12:16)How Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach got attached to the project and shifted the tone.Behind-the-scenes stories from test screenings of Barbie (18:18)Kevin and Robbie share stories from the early screenings of Barbie, and the changes that were made to the film.Convincing Mattel (25:44)Robbie explains how she had to convince the Barbie brand team to "get comfortable with being uncomfortable" during the filmmaking process.Polly Pocket, Hot Wheels, and Barney (35:46)Robbie discusses the future slate of films based on Mattel brands, including Hot Wheels, Barney, and more. She shares the big Hollywood names attached to the projects; people like J.J. Abrams, Lena Dunham, and Daniel Kaluuya.The Cultural Significance of Barbie (38:33)Robbie explains how Barbie substantively unpacks cultural issues, beyond just being commercially appealing.Taking Risks (42:25)Robbie talks about having conviction as a filmmaker to take bold risks, even if you "fail miserably.”Tune in for an entertaining glimpse behind the scenes of a contemporary classic in the making. Robbie brings an infectious energy as she shares anecdotes that capture the importance of conviction and the power of meaningful storytelling in producing great films. Robbie has an innate sense for compelling stories, a passion for telling them authentically, and the talent relationships and tenacity to get films made. Her insights into utilizing audience research to craft satisfying endings, grabbing viewer attention early, and leaning into a filmmaker's unique voice reveal why she's been behind so many memorable movies.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Robbie BrennerProducer:  Kari CampanoWriters:  Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoFor more information about Robbie Brenner:Mattel Films: https://corporate.mattel.com/robbie-brennerFor 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

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by the acclaimed producing team Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who give rare insights into their creative process and share lessons learned from decades of successful filmmaking.In this episode, Kevin Goetz sits down with two of the most prolific, decorated, and respected producers in the business - Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal. As partners at Escape Artists, Jason and Todd have produced an incredible array of award-winning films spanning over 20 years. From critical and commercial hits like The Pursuit of Happyness, The Equalizer franchise, Seven Pounds, and Being the Ricardos, they have cultivated a reputation for making character-driven films with soul and meaning.Jason Blumenthal’s Superpower [05:05]Jason believes his superpower is being able to "create something from nothing" when developing film ideas.Landing Denzel Washington for The Equalizer franchise [10:59]After years of relationship building, Todd and Jason landed Denzel for The Equalizer by paying for the rights themselves and developing the script extensively before showing him.The importance of character-driven movies [24:30]Todd emphasizes having likable characters that audiences connect with as the key ingredient for successful films.Nerves before every test screening [28:38]Both Todd and Jason discuss their intense anxiety and physical symptoms before every test screening. Despite the nerves, the trio discuss how important the test screening process has been for the success of their films.Memorable test screening moments that shaped their films [31:56]To illustrate how important it is to listen to the audience, the producing pair discusses how cutting a love story from Equalizer 3 significantly improved test scores.Will Smith's insight on why endings matter most to audiences [43:13]After a test screening of The Pursuit of Happyness, Will Smith surprised the audience and gave Jason a valuable piece of advice about the importance of a good ending.Tune in to hear Jason Blumenthal and Todd Black offer invaluable insights into producing in this wide-ranging conversation with host Kevin Goetz. The pair explain their creative ethos, share how test screenings have shaped their films, and recall sage advice received over their decades-long careers. Their passion for the test screening process illustrates a deep commitment to the audience above all else. With candor and humor, Jason and Todd impart hard-won lessons about the importance of likable characters, owning mistakes, and maintaining integrity in Hollywood. Their openness provides a rare look inside the art and craft of great producing.Host: Kevin GoetzGuests: Todd Black and Jason BlumenthalProducer:  Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, & Kari CampanoFor more information about Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal:Escape Artists: https://escapeartists.com/Instagram: 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

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by acclaimed filmmaker, Antoine Fuqua.Antoine Fuqua, director and producer, is known for his work on the films Training Day, The Magnificent Seven, and The Equalizer.Kevin Goetz sits down with renowned Hollywood director Antoine Fuqua. They discuss Fuqua's extraordinary path from the tough streets of Pittsburgh to directing blockbusters and working with some of the greatest actors of our time. Fuqua opens up about his encounter with gun violence at age 15, which shaped his artistic style and pursuit of cinematic realism. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with Denzel Washington in Training Day, the value he gleans from test screenings, and his upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. Fuqua also provides insight into his intense focus on actors, self-criticism, and mission to keep evolving as a director who can capture the human condition under pressure.Childhood Shooting (2:26)Fuqua recalls being randomly shot at age 15 while running an errand in Pittsburgh. The traumatic event gave him a visceral sense of violence and mortality. He remembers the shooting like a vivid movie scene engraved in his mind.Acting Process (11:34)Fuqua explains his deep reverence for actors. Fuqua believes in giving actors space to use their own creative process and not interfering in their "magic."“In the Moment Filmmaking” with Denzel Washington (14:18)Fuqua shares a story from Training Day when he was so absorbed watching Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke improvise in character that he forgot to call "cut." He stresses filmmakers must sometimes "get out of their own way" and just feel unscripted moments unfold.Test Screenings (16:48)The pair discuss test screenings, and Fuqua shares that even though he is tortured by the test screening process, he considers it a blessing. Fuqua discusses his love for the audience and how the feedback exposes blind spots and forces him to see the film through their eyes.Michael Jackson Biopic (21:56)Fuqua reveals details on his upcoming Michael Jackson biography produced by Graham King. He was drawn to the project by Jackson's global impact and complicated life. Fuqua aims to look beyond tabloid headlines to capture the man underneath.Men Under Pressure (27:24)Fuqua discusses men under pressure, a major theme in his filmmaking, and how he is drawn to telling stories about people making tough choices that test their morals and define their character. Tune in for a fascinating discussion that provides rare insight into the mindset of visionary director Antoine Fuqua. From his rough upbringing to directing actors like Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Will Smith, and Jake Gyllenhaal, he explains how his background shaped his directorial style and gift for portraying the human condition. Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Antoine FuquaProducer:  Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, & Kari CampanoFor more information about Antoine Fuqua: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

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Oscar and Emmy Nominated Director and Producer, Evgeny Afineevsky.Evgeny Afineevsky, Oscar-Nominated Documentary FilmmakerKevin Goetz is joined by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Evgeny Afineevsky. The pair discuss Afineevsky’s unlikely journey from childhood in the Soviet Union and Israel to becoming an Oscar-nominated director. Afineevsky shares behind-the-scenes stories about making powerful documentaries like Cries from Syria, Winter on Fire, which turned the world’s attention to the rising conflict in Ukraine, and Francesco, which offered him rare access to Pope Francis. He also provides insight into his filmmaking philosophy and drive to create documentaries that educate, inspire action, and work as tools for positive change in the world.From the former Soviet Union to Israel and an early mentor in Menahem Golan (01:41)Starting from his childhood fascination with filmmaking in the Soviet Union, Evgeny describes seeing rare foreign movies in Russia during the 1980s, like Gone with the Wind, that offered a glimpse outside the USSR. After moving to Israel, Afineevsky recounts meeting Menahem Golan and coming to Hollywood in the 1990s.Oscar nomination for Winter on Fire and meeting Volodymyr Zelenskyy (15:35)The pair discuss Evgeny’s transition to highly impactful documentaries like the Oscar-nominated Winter on Fire and how Afineevsky first met Volodymyr Zelenskyy in 2016, years before he became the president of Ukraine.Documentaries and PTSD (23:02)Afineevsky describes the risks he took to make his documentaries, and how the effects of making these films in war zones caused him to develop PTSD.A close relationship with Pope Francis (23:41)Afineevsky shares how he developed a close bond with Pope Francis and how he gained unprecedented access to him for the documentary Francesco. Afineevsky describes Francis becoming godfather to his son and their personal friendship.Making movies that matter (34:58)The pair discuss parenthood and how having a child motivated Afineevsky to make movies that can change the world.Upcoming projects (40:52)Afineevsky talks about his most recent documentary about Ukraine’s fight for freedom, Freedom on Fire. He also mentions potential upcoming projects, including one about Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.Tune in to hear this compelling interview with acclaimed documentary director Evgeny Afineevsky, which provides an intimate glimpse into his inspiring life journey, from gaining unprecedented access to Pope Francis for Francesco to making Oscar-nominated films like Winter on Fire. Afineevsky offers wisdom on documentary filmmaking and shares his vision for how movies can raise awareness of global issues to drive positive change in the world.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Evgeny AfineevskyProducer:  Kari CampanoWriters:  Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman and Kari CampanoFor more information about Evgeny Afineevsky: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