Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Strategist Kevin Goetz

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

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

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

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