Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Strategist Kevin Goetz

Kevin Goetz
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Aug 16, 2023 • 47min

Peter Bart (Legendary Studio Executive, Producer, & Journalist) on Shaping Modern Hollywood

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Hollywood journalist and studio executive, Peter Bart.Peter Bart, Journalist and Hollywood ExecutiveOver an influential career spanning over 50 years, Peter Bart has played a key role in shaping modern Hollywood. He began as a journalist at The New York Times before becoming a studio executive at Paramount in the late 1960s and 70s, overseeing movies like The Godfather, Rosemary’s Baby, and Chinatown. He later served as Editor-in-Chief of Variety for nearly 30 years. Today, Bart continues to be a prominent voice through his writing for Deadline. With his vast experience and perspective, Bart remains a living legend in the world of movies.Early career in journalism (05:16)Peter shares how he got his start in journalism by asking outrageous questions. The New York Times sent Bart to Hollywood to cover the rise of TV, but he was drawn to the fascinating economics of the movie business.Getting Into the Movie Business (08:15)Bart became friends with Bob Evans, who brought him to Paramount as head of production despite no film experience. They reinvented the studio by making artistic, character-driven films based on novels vs big-budget spectacles.Reinventing Hollywood (13:09)Bart bought rights to novels and quality scripts like The Godfather. He shares how he wanted to make it an art film, but its popularity pushed the studio to make it more commercial. Bart shares how he and Evans often made movies without studio oversight in order to take creative risks on movies like Rosemary’s Baby, Paper Moon, and Harold and Maude.Drama with Frank Sinatra (22:43)Peter shares a behind-the-scenes story from Rosemary’s Baby. Director Roman Polanski’s demanding style angered Frank Sinatra, husband of the film's star Mia Farrow. Returning to Journalism with Variety (27:01)Bart shares that after 18 years making films, he wanted to tell the story of Hollywood’s shifts - filmmaker power transitioning to dealmakers/businessmen running studios.The Future of Theatrical Films (43:09)Kevin and Peter discuss the value of the theatrical experience. As the way people watch movies is changing, Bart believes audience energy hugely enhances films. He shares how the new generation is losing out by only streaming at home.Tune in to hear Peter Bart share invaluable insights from his legendary career spanning studio executive leadership and entertainment. He provides a unique window into the reinvention of Hollywood in the 1960s and 70s, greenlighting seminal films like The Godfather. Peter makes an impassioned case for retaining the irreplaceable theatrical experience. With unmatched experience across epochs of the film industry, Peter's perspectives are a must-listen for any cinema fan.Host: Kevin GoetzGuests: Peter BartProducer:  Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Kari CampanoFor more information about Peter Bart:Wikipedia: 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
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Aug 2, 2023 • 42min

David Madden (Emmy-Winning Producer and Studio Executive) on Filmmaking, Major Industry Shifts, and his Pioneering New Role

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by David Madden, Emmy-winning producer and studio executive.David Madden, ProducerKevin Goetz is joined by acclaimed entertainment executive David Madden. David has had a fantastic career spanning over four decades in the film, television, and streaming industry. He's been on the front lines developing and overseeing some of the most acclaimed shows of our time. He has successfully produced movies like Runaway Bride, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, and Save the Last Dance. As president of Fox Broadcasting and AMC Studios, David helped shepherd iconic series, including The Shield, The Walking Dead, Better Call Saul, and The Americans. Currently, David is head of global entertainment for Wattpad WEBTOON Studios, an innovative division of Wattpad WEBTOON built around discovering undiscovered writers and creators on its online storytelling platforms, then turning their work into movies, shows, and animated projects.Early Career at Fox (06:55)David talks about getting his start in the early 1980s as a script reader at Fox after months of unsuccessfully trying to get a job there. He learned the importance of giving constructive feedback on scripts rather than being snarky and dismissive.Rising Through the Ranks (13:53)Working his way up at Fox, David discusses collaborating with producer Robert Cort on films like Romancing the Stone. He gained insights into developing scripts and making movies more marketable. David shares his experience moving to Paramount as an executive in the mid-1980s, overseeing major box office hits like Fatal Attraction and The Untouchables.The Sopranos and Embracing Prestige Television (18:04)David explains having an "aha moment" watching The Sopranos, realizing television could offer the same depth and sophistication as feature films. This led him to pivot his career to focus on premium cable series.Hits Across Cable Networks (19:50)As an executive, David helped develop acclaimed and award-winning shows, including The Shield at FX, The Americans, The Walking Dead, and Better Call Saul.Running Programming (21:57)David discusses serving as President of Programming at both Fox Broadcasting and AMC Networks. At Fox, he oversaw the meteoric success of Empire.Wattpad WEBTOON Studios (27:32)David details his current role leading content for Wattpad WEBTOON Studios, which discovers creators on its online storytelling platforms and turns their IP into entertainment properties. David explains how Wattpad operates, with over 90 million users worldwide uploading hundreds of millions of stories.Tune in to hear David take us on a fascinating journey from his beginnings as a script reader to overseeing some of the most acclaimed shows on television. Join Kevin and David for insightful perspectives on the major shifts happening in the business, from the disappearance of mid-budget films to the explosion 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
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Jul 19, 2023 • 48min

John Davis (Prolific Producer & Entrepreneur) on Filmmaking, the Art of Negotiation, and Perseverance

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by John Davis, prolific producer and founder of Davis Entertainment.John Davis, Producer, Entrepreneur, and Founder of Davis EntertainmentKevin Goetz is joined by John Davis, a renowned producer and the founder of Davis Entertainment. This powerhouse production company has left an indelible mark on the film and television industry. With an impressive list of credits to his name, Davis has consistently delivered captivating projects that have resonated with audiences worldwide. From high-octane action blockbusters like Predator, I, Robot, and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. to heartwarming family favorites like Dr. Dolittle and Garfield, Davis has demonstrated an exceptional range and an eye for engaging storytelling. In addition to his success in film, Davis has made significant contributions to television as an executive producer on critically acclaimed series such as The Blacklist and The Player. With Davis Entertainment as his platform, he continues to push boundaries, captivate audiences, and shape the future of storytelling in film and television.Entrepreneurship and John’s Secret Sauce (03:10)John discusses his love for entrepreneurship and how he sees producing movies as similar to starting a new company. John credits his success to having mass taste and understanding what audiences want to see.Giving Back (15:30)John and Kevin discuss the importance of giving back and how John and his wife have been passionate about providing scholarships and supporting educational institutions. Grumpy Old Men (21:28)John shares the determined process of getting this hit film made, including committing to produce another movie just to get Walter Matthau on board.Audience Reactions and Test Screenings (28:14)John and Kevin discuss the role of audience reactions in shaping a movie's success and share stories of screening experiences that made a significant impact, including how testing Jungle Cruise changed the movie.Waterworld: A Challenged Production (42:01)John discusses his involvement in the film Waterworld, addresses the controversy and difficulties it faced, and how he turned it into a positive.Personal Favorites (46:42)John reveals three movies that hold a special place in his heart and encapsulate his journey as a producer. He talks about the impact and significance of Dolomite, Predator, and Grumpy Old Men on his career and personal growth.Tune in for a candid conversation with renowned producer and entrepreneur John Davis as he shares captivating stories and valuable insights from his prolific career. Join us as we explore the art of negotiation, the power of perseverance, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: John DavisProducer:  Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Kari CampanoFor more information about John Davis:Wikipedia: 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
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Jul 6, 2023 • 51min

Cathy Schulman (Award Winning Producer) Discusses Filmmaking, the Audience Testing Process, and her Advocacy for Women in the Entertainment Industry

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Academy Award-winning producer and activist, Cathy Schulman.Cathy Schulman, ProducerCathy Schulman is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry, using her platform to advocate for gender equality and empowering women. In this episode, Schulman opens up about her journey, sharing how her own experiences of sexism, harassment, and bullying ignited a deep passion for change. Cathy is committed to producing content that appeals to diverse audiences, particularly women and girls. The pair also discuss Cathy's Academy Award win for the film Crash and her experiences working on projects such as The Illusionist, Bad Moms, The Woman King, and Showtime’s The First Lady. A commitment to Diversity and Representation (03:17)Cathy Schulman discusses her advocacy for women in the entertainment industry, which stems from her personal experiences with sexism and harassment. Cathy shares what motivated her to become involved in organizations like Women in Film and ultimately establish her organization, ReFrame.Crash and the Academy Awards (08:50)Cathy shares what it was like to hear the name of her movie read at the Academy Awards. She talks about her prepared speech for the Oscars, which accidentally ended up being genocide statistics instead. Despite the unexpected turn, she spoke from the heart and thanked her husband and inspirations.Inspirations (12:39)Kevin asks Cathy about her primary inspiration in the film industry and Cathy talks about Barbara Boyle, the first woman to run a Hollywood studio and one of the founders of Women in Film.Audience Research and The Woman King (19:26)Cathy and Kevin discuss the audience testing process, and how it improved The Woman King. Cathy shares her view that pace, length, and clarity are the keys to the audience research process.Testing her upcoming project, The Idea of You (34:52)Cathy talks about her upcoming project, The Idea of You, starring Anne Hathaway. She shares some of the testing insights on the project.Representation and Women in Film (44:46)Cathy discusses the organization Women in Film, and the research that she has done to advance representation in the film industry. She focuses on the economics of representation and catering to a diverse audience.Tune in to hear Cathy and Kevin discuss the importance of listening to the audience, the challenges of filmmaking, Cathy's involvement with Women in Film, and her project, ReFrame, aimed at creating systemic change in the industry. Through her advocacy, she has emerged as a true champion for gender equality, inspiring others to challenge the status quo and rewrite the narrative, creating a future where every woman's voice is heard and valued.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Cathy SchulmanProducer:  Kari CampanoFor more information about Cathy Schulman:IMDB: https://www.imdbFor 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
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Jun 21, 2023 • 49min

Will Packer (Film & Television Producer) Discusses his Career, Making Movies that Resonate with Audiences, and More!

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Will Packer, acclaimed filmmaker and founder of Will Packer Productions.Will Packer, ProducerKevin Goetz is joined by industry trailblazer, Will Packer. A film and two-time Emmy-nominated producer, Packer is a mastermind when it comes to captivating audiences with stories that resonate across cultural boundaries. From his early days as a student filmmaker at Florida A&M University to the powerhouse behind hits like Think Like a Man, Girls Trip, and Straight Outta Compton, Will Packer has devoted his career to making movies that resonate with the audience. With an unyielding dedication to diversity and inclusivity, he has opened doors for underrepresented voices in the industry.Beverly Hills Cop and Packer’s early influences (07:15)Packer fondly recalls the impact of watching movies as a child and how they served as an escape and source of inspiration. He cites Beverly Hills Cop as a significant movie that made him realize the power of representation and humor, featuring a charismatic black lead who became a hero on screen.From an engineer to a DIY filmmaker (08:11)Will explains that his analytical mindset, combined with his creative inclinations, gives him a unique perspective. Packer shares the story of his persistence in securing a screening for his first film,Chocolate City, where the film garnered an enthusiastic response from the audience. The movie resonated with viewers portraying a world they could relate to.Creating inclusive movies with universal themes (11:21)Packer discusses how movies in the past were often exclusive, designed for specific audiences, but his aim is to create inclusive films with universal themes, featuring black characters but accessible to all.Diversity leads to success (28:57)Will and Kevin emphasize the value of diversity in the business world, stating that having more voices in the room leads to increased success. The pair agree that a creative industry thrives when there is a variety of perspectives and experiences represented.Creating content that people love (34:40)Kevin and Will discuss the importance of creating movies and media that people "love", not just "like". In this oversaturated media market, he focuses on creating movies that people are passionate about and will rush to tell their friends about. Producing the Oscars and the “slap heard ‘round the world” (37:42)Will talks about his experience producing the 2022 Academy Awards, a production that earned him an Emmy nomination. Will goes into the challenges of producing the Oscars, and how Chris Rock saved the show.Tune in to hear Will Packer's journey in the industry, starting from his early influences and his passion for storytelling, to his contributions to the entertainment industry and his commitment to championing underrepresented voices. Host: Kevin GoetzGuests: Will PackerProducer:  Kari CampanoFor more information about Will Packer:Website: 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
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Jun 7, 2023 • 41min

Marty Bowen & Wyck Godfrey (Powerhouse Producing Duo) Discuss Filmmaking, their Partnership Success, & More

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey, powerhouse producers and founders of Temple Hill Entertainment.Marty Bowen, ProducerWyck Godfrey, Producer and Former Studio HeadKevin Goetz is joined by two exceptional guests who have produced some of the most popular entertainment of recent years.  Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey are the dynamic duo behind Temple Hill Entertainment. With a list of credits that includes blockbuster franchises like The Twilight Saga and The Maze Runner Trilogy, as well as critically acclaimed films like The Fault in Our Stars and First Man, these two industry powerhouses have left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. Their collaboration has yielded television hits such as FX's Dave, ABC's Revenge, and Hulu's Love, Victor. Marty and Wyck’s background and early careers (3:12)Wyck discusses his start in the film industry as an intern at New Line Cinema, his journey to becoming an executive, and his first project, National Lampoon's Spring Break. Marty talks about growing up in a small town in Texas, his international experiences, and the moment he decided to pursue a career in the movie business after watching Dances with Wolves.Roommates and the beginning of a partnership (7:19)Marty and Wyck reminisce about their early days as roommates, the excitement of pursuing their dreams in Hollywood, and the formation of their enduring partnership.A surprising screening of The Fault in Our Stars (14:49)Kevin recounts the surprisingly popular screening of The Fault in Our Stars. Godfrey shares how he tracked down John Green at a book signing, and how their shared love for Liverpool football led to their collaboration.Running a studio (22:31)Wyck shares his experience transitioning from being a producer to running the studio. He talks about the moment Jim Gianopulos offered him the opportunity and how he felt the need for a change. Marty Bowen reflects on Wyck's decision and compares it to his own transition from an agent to a producer.Lessons from Paramount (24:48)Kevin asks Wyck to share how his experience at Paramount helped the partnership when he returned to Temple Hill Entertainment. The discussion turns to the marketing of Smile and how the studio experience drove the distribution decisions.Superpowers (35:39)Kevin asks Marty and Wyck to discuss the other’s superpower, and what follows is an insightful discussion of the production partnership, and why it has been so successful.Tune in to hear Marty and Wyck discuss their partnership, their journey in the film industry, and their experiences working on various projects. The podcast episode also highlights their first projects, their partnership chemistry, and their mutual respect for each other's talents.Host: Kevin GoetzGuests: Marty Bowen and Wyck GodfreyProducer:  Kari CampanoFor more information about Wyck Godfrey and MartFor 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
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May 18, 2023 • 51min

Jim Gianopulos (Former Studio Chairman/CEO) on Making Successful Movies, Greenlighting Projects, & More!

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Jim Gianopulos, former studio head of 20th Century Fox and Paramount Pictures.Jim Gianopulos, Studio HeadJim Gianopulos is a highly influential executive in the entertainment industry, known for his visionary leadership. With a career spanning decades, he has made significant contributions to film and television, overseeing major blockbusters such as Titanic, Avatar, and more recently, Maverick: Top Gun. Under Jim’s leadership at Paramount Pictures, he took a studio that was at an operating loss of nearly $500 million a year and built it into a significantly profitable studio. Gianopulos is celebrated for his exceptional creative instincts, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication to storytelling, making him one of the most influential figures in modern cinema.Influential filmmakers and the privilege of running a studio (10:42)Jim talks about his early influencers in the film industry such as Martin Scorsese and John Cassavetes, his Greek heritage, and the privilege of running a studio.Searchlight's Marketing Strategy (20:57)Jim and Kevin talk about Searchlight's brilliant marketing strategy, and how they took creative risks on movies like Slumdog Millionaire.Ice Age (27:02)Jim shares a story about the almost missed opportunity with Ice Age, the decision to keep it, and the success of the franchise.Avatar's Budget (30:12)Jim talks about the challenges of greenlighting Avatar due to its expensive budget and new technology. He shares what it was like to work with James Cameron on the blockbuster film.Castaway's Ending (34:50)Jim discusses the audience screening of Castaway  and how audience reaction led to a change in the film’s ending that was crucial to its success.Testing Movies with Audience Feedback (39:28)Jim and Kevin discuss the importance of testing movies with audience feedback and how it helps to serve the audience better.The Release of Top Gun: Maverick (45:12)Jim talks about the pressure and decision-making process behind the release of the movie Maverick during the COVID-19 pandemic.The Changing Entertainment Landscape and the Green-Lighting Process (48:23)Jim discusses his thoughts on the future of movie theaters and why he believes they will always exist. The conversation turns to the flexibility of film distribution and how movies can be moved between theatrical releases and streaming platforms.Tune in to hear Kevin and Jim discuss Jim’s career in the movie industry and his guiding principles for making successful movies. Throughout the conversation, Jim stresses the importance of making bold decisions and taking calculated risks. The pair discuss the importance of audience feedback and testing in making successful movies, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing the movie industry in the current landscape.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Jim GianopulosProducer:  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
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May 3, 2023 • 47min

Mark Gordon (Film & Television Producer) on Filmmaking, Getting into Television, and More!

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Mark Gordon, film and television producer, Academy Award nominee, and Golden Globe winner.Mark Gordon, ProducerMark Gordon, a visionary producer and executive in the entertainment industry, boasts an impressive array of career highlights. From producing critically acclaimed dramas to commercially successful films, his portfolio is a testament to his creative prowess. Notable highlights include producing groundbreaking television series like Grey's Anatomy and Criminal Minds, as well as blockbusters such as Saving Private Ryan and Speed. With a knack for identifying compelling projects and pushing boundaries, Gordon has solidified his status as a true trailblazer. His exceptional talent and creative vision have been recognized with industry honors including Emmy Awards, BAFTA Awards, PGA Awards, and an Acadamy Award nomination.Early beginnings and challenges (8:24)Mark Gordon talks about his decision to go to film school and focus on producing, despite the fact that film schools were primarily for aspiring directors and writers. Mark Gordon talks about his early struggles in the entertainment industry and how he picked himself up after feeling like a failure.Swing Kids and the making of Speed (15:50)Kevin and Mark talk about the making of the movie Swing Kids, the background of the movie, and the cast. Mark goes on to discuss the development and production of the movie Speed, including how it was almost made at Paramount, the surprising audience test screening, and the unexpected success it had at the box office.Saving Private Ryan and the challenges of screenwriting(24:08)Mark discusses how he got involved in producing the movie Saving Private Ryan, including the process of developing the story with Bob Rodat and pitching it to studios. Mark shares the story of keeping the involvement of Steven Spielberg a secret from the studio.Transitioning to television and Grey’s Anatomy (31:09)Mark discusses his transition from producing movies to producing television, including his first project with Shonda Rhimes. Mark Gordon talks about his early creative relationship with Shonda Rhimes and his involvement with Grey's Anatomy, including casting decisions and the editing process. Mark shares his philosophy on producing and how sometimes the best thing a producer can do is get out of the way.Full circle (40:25)Mark addresses his decision to leave Hollywood for New York and London. Kevin and Mark talk about their mutual background and love for New York, and Mark’s current project, The Life of Pi on Broadway.Tune in to hear Kevin and Mark and their fascinating conversation about producing film and television.  Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Mark GordonProducer:  Kari CampanoFor more information about Mark Gordon:IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0330428/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
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Apr 19, 2023 • 41min

Ellen Goldsmith-Vein (Film/TV Producer, Manager, & Executive) on Breaking Into the Business, Producing, & More

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, founder and CEO of Gotham Group, a management and production company.Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Gotham Group CEO, ProducerEllen Goldsmith-Vein is a business woman and producer, widely recognized for her prolific work as the founder and CEO of Gotham Group, a leading management company in the entertainment industry. In addition to her successful career in management, Ellen is a notable philanthropist and political fundraiser, dedicating her time and resources to various charitable causes. With an impressive portfolio spanning both television and film, Ellen has produced blockbuster hits such as The Maze Runner film series, which grossed over 1 billion dollars at the box office worldwide. She has also produced critically acclaimed films such as Star Girl and its sequel Hollywood Star Girl, Wendell and Wild, Abduction, My Best Friend's Exorcism, and The Spiderwick Chronicles. Ellen's work has earned her several accolades, including an Emmy award nomination in 2008 for her contributions to the popular television series, Creature Comforts.Ellen's background and starting Gotham Group (3:00)Ellen talks about being the first woman to own the size of management company that she does. She discusses how she started Gotham Group 30 years ago and how she went from a career in banking to the entertainment industry.Ellen's transition to representation (8:10)Ellen talks about her desire to be on the same side of the table as the talent and how she transitioned to the representation business.Finding White Space(14:15)Ellen discusses the importance of finding white space in the industry and how focusing on the animation space helped Gotham Group become successful.Producing a $125 million movie (17:53)Ellen talks about her experience producing The Spiderwick Chronicles and the challenges of being a producer.Social activism (26:39)Kevin and Ellen discuss Ellen and her husband Jon Vein’s involvement in social activism and their efforts to make a positive impact through their work in the entertainment industry.Challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry (37:10)Ellen talks about the difficulties of being a woman in the entertainment industry and how she had to work hard to be taken seriously. Providing opportunities and advice for young women (38:34)Ellen discusses the importance of providing opportunities for young women in the entertainment industry and how she tries to help them get their foot in the door. Ellen gives advice to young women to focus on their own work and not worry about what others are doing to create success for themselves.Tune in to hear Kevin and Ellen discuss Ellen's career path, her experience as a producer, her political activism, and the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Ellen Goldsmith-VeinProducer:  Kari CampanoFor more information about Ellen Goldsmith-Vein:The GothamFor 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
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Apr 5, 2023 • 44min

Martha Coolidge (Award Winning Film & Television Director) on Filmmaking and Movie Research

Send Kevin a Text MessageKevin is joined by Martha Coolidge, a celebrated American film director known for her groundbreaking work in the film industry.Martha Coolidge, DirectorCoolidge has directed a wide range of films over the course of her career, including the iconic 1983 teen comedy Valley Girl, the critically acclaimed drama Rambling Rose, and the romantic comedy Introducing Dorothy Dandridge. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her work, including the Women in Film Crystal Award. She has served as the president of the Directors Guild of America, making her one of the most influential women in Hollywood. Throughout her career, Coolidge has been a trailblazer for women in the film industry, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers with her innovative storytelling approach and commitment to diversity and inclusivity.An Actor’s Director (4:05)Martha has the reputation of being an actor’s director. Having worked with such names as Nicolas Cage, Val Kilmer, Halle Berry, Laura Dern, and Robert Duvall, Martha shares her directing process and how her goal is to figure out what an actor needs to be relaxed.Early career and turning trauma into a documentary (6:28)Martha talks about her early directing experience at the Rhode Island School of Design. She discusses her early years as a documentary filmmaker. “Gag me with a spoon.” On self-producing Valley Girl(11:28)Kevin asks Martha about her first job in Hollywood, and Martha talks about financing Valley Girl, shooting it in New York, and capturing the idiosyncratic voice of the movement. Martha shares how Brian Grazer saw Valley Girl, liked it, and how that led to her directing Real Genius starring Val Kilmer.The screening process and being a literal nervous wreck (13:19)The test screening process tends to make filmmakers nervous. Martha shares her experience with the audience preview of Valley Girl and how they pulled people in off the street to preview the film.Love for directing and making a movie several times (19:12)Kevin asks Martha about her favorite part of filmmaking. Martha talks about her love of directing and her special relationship with actors. She also shares her passion for post-production and how you make the movie several times in post.First woman president of the Director’s Guild of America (28:45)Coolridge was named the first woman president of the Director’s Guild of America. She talks about how some were not ready for a woman president, but most welcomed the diversity. Kevin and Martha discuss women in filmmaking and the underrepresentation of female directors. Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Martha CoolidgeProducer:  Kari CampanoFor more information about Martha Coolidge:IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004838/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marthacoolidge/?hl=enTwitter: 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

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