The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

In this special livestream episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun dives into real-time producer script requests you can submit to for free! He also hosts an in-depth Q&A on the challenges of finding reps, breaking into Hollywood, indie filmmaking, crafting undeniable scripts, and more. Honest, unfiltered, and inspiring—this episode is a must-listen for screenwriters at every level.🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Where to find current script requests (for free)The reality of working with agents and managersWhy local connections can be more powerful than Hollywood tiesWhat makes a script undeniably greatHow to approach dialogue and rewrite it with subtextTips for finding work as a reader or starting in the industry⏱️ Key Moments:(00:00) Geoffrey welcomes listeners & explains free producer script requests(04:45) Script request: Set in Newfoundland—opportunity for Canadian writers(06:30) Script request: Low-budget detective/missing person thriller(12:50) Q&A: A writer’s concern about their agent not delivering(18:40) The ladder of success: From aspiring to sought-after screenwriter(23:15) Building relationships with local indie filmmakers(30:00) From good to great: How one note changed everything(36:10) Best way to write dialogue with depth and voice(45:00) Is hiring a co-writer worth it vs. learning the craft yourself?(50:00) Writing with theme: How to unlock a stuck story(56:30) Contest spotlight: Submit to Script Summit & pitch on the podcast!👤 About the Host: With films on network TV and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, award-winning author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, founder of Script Summit, and host of The Successful Screenwriter. He’s passionate about helping writers unlock their potential and break into the industry.📚 Resources Mentioned in the Episode:TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com Blog – Free script requests & pitching tipsScript Summit Contest – Submit your script to win prizes & pitch on the showThe Guide for Every Screenwriter – Available here🤝 Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:🌐 Podcast Website📸 Instagram @screenwriterpod🎬 TikTok @screenwriterpod📣 If you found value in this episode, like, share, and leave a review—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an opportunity or insight from the industry.#ScreenwritingTips #ScriptOpportunities #FreeScriptCalls #ScreenwriterPodcast #ScriptSummit #IndieFilm #HowToScreenwrite #BreakingIn #ScreenplayStructure #TheGuideForEveryScreenwriterExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with acclaimed director David Yarovesky (Brightburn, Nightbooks) to discuss his latest psychological thriller, Locked, starring Bill Skarsgård and Anthony Hopkins. They dive into the challenges of shooting an intense one-shot sequence, the emotional depth of the film, and how Locked balances visceral thrills with layered social commentary.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How David Yarovesky created a panic-inducing thriller in just 19 daysBehind-the-scenes secrets of Locked's jaw-dropping camera workWhat it’s like directing Bill Skarsgård and Anthony Hopkins togetherThe moral themes beneath the surface of LockedHow practical set design made the impossible possibleKey Moments:00:00 – Script Summit 2025 is open for submissions!00:27 – David Yarovesky joins the show to talk Locked04:13 – The most intense shot: how they pulled it off practically10:45 – Working with Bill Skarsgård and his next-level physicality14:40 – Anthony Hopkins and Bill’s electric chemistry on setAbout the Guest:David Yarovesky is a visionary director known for blending genre storytelling with emotional depth. His previous works include Brightburn and Nightbooks, and his latest film Locked is a high-stakes, claustrophobic thriller starring Bill Skarsgård and Anthony Hopkins. David is a longtime collaborator with James Gunn and continues to push the limits of indie filmmaking with innovation and heart.About the Host:With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. He’s the founder of Script Summit and host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast, where he helps writers elevate their craft and careers. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Script Summit 2025 – Submit Now!Locked – In theaters March 21, 2025David Yarovesky’s Filmography on IMDbThe Guide for Every Screenwriter – BookConnect with the Guest:Instagram – @yarovilleConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram – @screenwriterpodTikTok – @screenwriterpodEnjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more expert interviews and insider tips on screenwriting. Leave us a review—it helps more screenwriters discover the show!#DavidYarovesky #LockedMovie #ScreenwritingPodcast #BillSkarsgard #AnthonyHopkins #FilmmakingTips #IndieFilm #ThrillerFilm #BehindTheScenes #OneShotScene #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #ScriptSummit2025Explore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode, Geoffrey welcomes back Script Summit winner and indie filmmaker Neil Chase to discuss his latest film Spin the Wheel, now streaming on Tubi. Neil shares the challenges and triumphs of making a true indie feature on a shoestring budget, navigating distribution, and crafting a compelling story. They also discuss the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking, industry transitions, and what’s next for Neil. Plus, Script Summit 2025 is now open for submissions—learn why entering screenplay competitions is a game-changer for screenwriters.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The journey of making Spin the Wheel for less than a used carHow to craft a compelling story on a budgetThe importance of world-building in indie filmsChallenges in writing a unique and layered Devil characterStrategies for securing film distribution without getting scammedThe current state of indie filmmaking and industry transitionsWhy Script Summit 2025 is a must-enter competition for screenwritersKey Moments:[00:00] – Script Summit 2025 is now open for submissions![00:28] – Introducing Neil Chase: Screenwriter, Filmmaker & Script Summit Winner[00:46] – The making of Spin the Wheel—budget constraints & indie film ingenuity[02:36] – World-building techniques for indie films[06:44] – The inspiration behind Spin the Wheel & the Russian roulette twist[08:08] – Writing a compelling Devil character—avoiding clichés[10:37] – The struggles of indie film distribution & breaking into Tubi[16:48] – The changing landscape of indie filmmaking & industry transitions[18:19] – Why indie films need to maintain quality despite industry shifts[19:45] – How entering Script Summit can transform a screenwriter’s career[20:59] – Neil’s next film, Contamination—military sci-fi horror action!About the Guest:Neil Chase is a screenwriter, filmmaker, and Script Summit winner whose indie film Spin the Wheel is now streaming on Tubi. Known for his innovative storytelling and ability to create immersive worlds on a tight budget, Neil’s work has earned 18 wins and 22 nominations in film festivals worldwide. His next project, Contamination, is an action-packed military sci-fi horror film currently in post-production.About the Host:With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, the author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and the host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. Passionate about teaching and helping writers succeed, Geoffrey also runs Script Summit, one of the top-rated screenwriting competitions. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Enter Script Summit 2025: ScriptSummit.comWatch Spin the Wheel on TubiConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast Website: The Successful ScreenwriterInstagram: @screenwriterpodTikTok: @screenwriterpodEnjoy this episode? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! Leave a review to help more screenwriters and indie filmmakers discover these valuable insights.#Screenwriting #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #TubiMovie #ScreenwriterLife #IndieFilmmaker #FilmDistribution #MovieMaking #ScriptSummit #WriteYourStory #FilmFestivals #ScriptToScreen #FilmmakingTips #ScreenplayContest #IndieHorror #MovieIndustry #BehindTheScenes #Storytelling #LowBudgetFilmmaking #TheSuccessfulScreenwriterExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Kim Hornsby, the Script Summit winner for Best Hour Drama with her pilot Moody and the Ghost. Kim shares her journey from writing a novella to adapting it into a TV pilot, the impact of winning Script Summit, and how her script is now making waves in Hollywood. She also discusses her experiences writing for Lifetime, pitching projects, and the hustle required to build a career in screenwriting. If you want to learn how to leverage contests, create opportunities, and push your career forward, this episode is for you!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Kim Hornsby transitioned her novella into a TV pilotThe importance of screenwriting contests in gaining industry recognitionStrategies for leveraging contest wins to open doors in HollywoodThe process of pitching a project to NBCUniversalInsights into writing for Lifetime and the experience of seeing your work on the big screenHow short films can help launch a feature screenwriting careerThe power of persistence and networking in the industryKey Moments:[00:33] Welcome Kim Hornsby to the show[00:54] Moody and the Ghost – From novella to TV pilot[01:55] How winning Script Summit helped boost the project[06:39] The impact of Script Summit and the importance of industry credibility[09:02] Kim’s upcoming projects, including a $12 million feature[10:49] Advice for screenwriters looking to break into the industry[14:09] The hustle mentality – why loving the process mattersAbout the Guest:Kim Hornsby is a USA Today bestselling author and award-winning screenwriter. With a strong background in both novel writing and screenwriting, her work has gained industry recognition, leading to projects with NBCUniversal and Lifetime. She actively engages with the writing community and shares insights on the screenwriting journey.About the Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter with films on network television and streaming platforms, the founder of Script Summit, and the author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter. As the host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast, he shares insights and interviews industry professionals to help aspiring screenwriters achieve success.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Moody and the Ghost (Kim Hornsby’s TV pilot)Braving Rapids (Kim’s feature film)Secret Life of My Other Wife (Kim’s Lifetime movie)Script Summit 2025 – Submit your script hereConnect with the Guest:Twitter: @KimHornsbyConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Website: The Successful ScreenwriterInstagram: @screenwriterpodTikTok: @screenwriterpodListen on Spreaker: The Successful Screenwriter PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, share it with your fellow screenwriters, and subscribe for more expert insights. Got a script? Submit it to Script Summit 2025 for your chance to get industry exposure!#Screenwriting #ScriptSummit #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #MoodyAndTheGhost #ScreenwritingContest #FilmIndustry #TVPilot #LifetimeMovie #WritingTips #KimHornsbyExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Script Summit 2025 is officially open for submissions! If you're looking for industry exposure, this is your chance to get your script read by Hollywood producers and directors. In this episode, we welcome Script Summit winner Lyndal Simpson, whose screenplay Gravedigger won a table read at Script Summit 2022. She shares her journey from winning the table read to signing an option deal and moving into production. Lyndal discusses the challenges of script rewrites, working within a budget, and embracing feedback from producers. If you're an aspiring screenwriter, this episode is packed with invaluable insights!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How a Script Summit win helped Gravedigger gain industry attention.The impact of table reads on script development.How Coverfly’s red list boosted Lyndal’s script visibility.The process of signing a shopping agreement and landing an option.Overcoming script rewrites and working within budget constraints.The importance of emotional impact and atmosphere in screenwriting.Advice for screenwriters submitting to contests and working in the industry.Key Moments:[00:00] Script Summit 2025 is now open for submissions.[01:34] How Gravedigger made Coverfly’s red list and attracted an agent.[02:16] Landing a shopping agreement and signing an option.[05:26] Handling feedback and adapting to budget constraints.[07:56] Managing the overwhelm of rewrites with small victories.[14:32] The role of emotion and atmosphere in making a script stand out.About the Guest:Lyndal Simpson is a screenwriter whose thriller Gravedigger won a table read at Script Summit 2022. The project has since gained industry traction, landing a shopping agreement, an option deal, and now heading toward production. Based in Australia, Lyndal has multiple projects in development and is passionate about crafting atmospheric, emotionally driven stories.About the Host:Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey is dedicated to helping screenwriters achieve their dreams.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Script Summit Submissions – Enter Now!Coverfly’s Red ListConnect with the Guest:IMDb: Lyndal SimpsonOn CoverflyConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:The Successful Screenwriter PodcastInstagram: @screenwriterpodTikTok: @screenwriterpodWebsite: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.comEnjoy this episode? Don’t forget to like, share, and review! Subscribe for more screenwriting insights and industry interviews.#Screenwriting #ScriptSummit #WritingCommunity #Filmmaking #Screenwriter #Screenplay #IndieFilmExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with filmmaker Fritz Frauendorf to discuss the challenges of breaking into the film industry through short films. Fritz shares his journey from film school to directing Manic Man, a short film that went viral, garnering over a million views. He reveals the marketing strategies that worked, the lessons he’s learned about storytelling, and how he’s leveraging his success to build a feature film. If you're a filmmaker trying to make your mark, this episode is packed with valuable insights!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Fritz transitioned from film school to directing short filmsThe importance of visual storytelling in short-form contentThe marketing strategies that helped Manic Man go viralThe role of local film premieres in networking and career growthHow short films can serve as proof of concept for feature-length projectsThe balance between artistic expression and audience engagementKey Moments:[00:38] Geoffrey introduces Fritz Frauendorf and his journey into filmmaking[01:11] Fritz shares how he got started in film school and his early projects[02:32] The strategy behind making Manic Man a concise, powerful short film[06:19] The importance of local screenings and community support[07:36] The role of social media and paid advertising in promoting indie films[08:13] The impact of viral success—opportunities and industry recognition[10:42] Why attending local film events can lead to unexpected opportunities[11:44] Lessons learned from making multiple short films[12:56] The shift from experimental filmmaking to crafting audience-driven stories[14:59] Expanding Manic Man into a feature-length film and the creative challenges aheadAbout the Guest:Fritz Frauendorf is an independent filmmaker and director known for his viral short film Manic Man. A graduate of the New York Film Academy, he has spent years crafting short films that explore themes of mental health and dissociation. With multiple projects under his belt, Fritz is now working towards developing a feature film that expands on the concepts introduced in Manic Man.About the Host:With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. As the host of The Successful Screenwriter, he shares insights from top industry professionals to help writers and filmmakers succeed.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Manic Man short film [Link]Fritz’s film production company: Fritz and Lewis Films InstagramConnect with Fritz Frauendorf:Instagram: @fritzandlewisfilmsConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Website: The Successful ScreenwriterInstagram: @screenwriterpodTikTok: @screenwriterpodIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow filmmakers and screenwriters! Let us know in the comments what marketing strategies have worked for your short films.Hashtags: #Filmmaking #ShortFilms #Screenwriting #IndieFilm #FilmMarketing #ManicMan #MentalHealthInFilm #ViralFilm #FilmmakerLife #ScreenwriterExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

Episode Description: In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by regular guests Katie Presto and Reece Taylor to analyze and review Companion, the sci-fi horror film that blends psychological tension, AI themes, and unexpected humor. Geoffrey goes in blind, without prior knowledge of the film, leading to fresh reactions and in-depth discussions on themes of love, control, and vulnerability. We also explore standout performances, directorial choices, and how Companion fits into the evolving landscape of horror comedies.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why going into a film blind can enhance the viewing experience.How Companion subverts AI horror tropes.Sophie Thatcher’s rising star power and character choices.The film’s exploration of love, power dynamics, and control.How horror-comedy is making a comeback in Hollywood.Box office insights and potential for sequels.Key Moments:[00:38] Introduction to the film analysis segment.[01:21] Companion logline and initial reactions.[02:34] Sophie Thatcher’s performance and comparisons to Anya Taylor-Joy & Jodie Foster.[06:39] The shocking reveal: Did you see it coming?[08:53] Themes of love, abuse, and control in Companion.[12:11] AI love vs. human love: A unique perspective.[16:18] Jack Quaid’s performance and eerie resemblance to his father, Dennis Quaid.[17:01] Guessing the film’s budget and box office performance.[19:23] Horror-comedy: A genre resurgence?[20:48] Looking ahead: Next film review (Heart Eyes).About the Guests:Katie Presto: Regular guest and film cinephile, offering unique perspectives on character depth and themes.Reece Taylor: Resident “film philosopher,” known for his deep dives into storytelling mechanics.About the Host:Geoffrey D. Calhoun is an award-winning screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. With films that have aired on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey shares his passion for storytelling and film analysis to help writers sharpen their craft.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Companion (2024) – Film discussed.Ex Machina & Westworld – Similar AI-driven films.The Menu – A recent example of suspenseful horror-comedy.Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast Website: The Successful ScreenwriterInstagram: @screenwriterpodTikTok: @screenwriterpodEnjoyed this breakdown? Like, share, and review the podcast! What did you think of Companion? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media!#FilmAnalysis #CompanionMovie #Screenwriting #HorrorComedy #SciFiHorror #Podcast #MovieReviewExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor for an in-depth film analysis of The Wolfman (2025). They dissect the film's subversive approach to the werewolf genre, its themes of generational trauma, and how it stacks up against classic horror films. Tune in for a spirited discussion filled with differing opinions and plenty of laughs!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The film's unique take on werewolf mythology and practical effects.How generational trauma is woven into the narrative.The impact of subverting audience expectations in genre films.The importance of character development and pacing in horror.Insights into the evolving "Dark Universe" of monster movies.Key Moments:00:38 - Geoffrey introduces the episode and guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor.01:01 - Logline and background on The Wolfman and its director, Leigh Whannell.04:44 - Reece questions whether the film would have worked better without the Wolfman title.07:08 - Discussion on the film’s subversive approach and use of practical effects.16:29 - Comparing The Wolfman's box office performance to Nosferatu and audience expectations.About the Guests:Katie Presto and Reece Taylor are returning guest hosts who bring their unique perspectives and humor to film analysis. Katie is known for her deep dives into character relationships, while Reece offers critical insights into genre conventions and storytelling.About the Host:With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. As the host of The Successful Screenwriter, he interviews industry professionals and shares valuable screenwriting insights.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Saw (2004) by Leigh WhannellUpgrade (2018) by Leigh WhannellThe Invisible Man (2020) by Leigh WhannellInsidious (2010) by Leigh WhannellConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodDid The Wolfman live up to your expectations, or were you left wanting more? Leave a comment and let us know your thoughts! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more industry insights.#Screenwriting #FilmAnalysis #TheWolfman #HorrorMovies #WerewolfFilms #GenerationalTrauma #SubversiveCinema #PodcastDiscussion #Filmmaking #ScriptwritingTipsExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun welcomes guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor to dive into the remake of Nosferatu. Together, they analyze the gothic tale's visual brilliance, explore its storytelling challenges, and debate its thematic depth. With personal insights and contrasting perspectives, the discussion unravels the complexities of this modern take on a classic horror story.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How the Nosferatu remake balances visual storytelling with thematic depth.The challenges of adapting gothic classics for modern audiences.Exploring themes of obsession, repression, and agency in character arcs.Insights into German Expressionism and its influence on the film’s style.A candid discussion on the line between formalism and realism in acting.Key Moments:[00:50] Introduction of the guest hosts and overview of Nosferatu.[03:36] Visual storytelling versus narrative depth: Geoffrey’s initial impressions.[05:31] Katie explores themes of obsession and feeling trapped in the story.[12:07] Reese’s philosophical take: Is inaction a form of action?[18:13] Gothic romance vs. horror: The tension between genres.[25:45] Vlad the Impaler: How the remake reimagines classic Dracula lore.[33:37] German Expressionism’s influence and its distortion of reality.[34:56] Closing thoughts and the uneasy beauty of the Nosferatu remake.About the Guests:Katie Presto: A film enthusiast and screenwriter with a keen eye for thematic depth and character exploration.Reece Taylor: A filmmaker and academic with years of experience studying storytelling, visual style, and cinematic history.About the Host:Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter whose works have aired on network television and streaming platforms. He is the author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter and the host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast, where he interviews industry professionals and provides insights into the craft of storytelling.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Dracula by Bram StokerNosferatu (2023 remake by Robert Eggers)The Cabinet of Dr. CaligariFrancis Ford Coppola’s Dracula (1992)Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpodDid the Nosferatu remake leave you in awe, or did it miss the mark? Share your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, review, and subscribe for more film analyses and screenwriting tips.#Nosferatu #Screenwriting #FilmAnalysis #GermanExpressionism #GothicHorror #TheSuccessfulScreenwriterExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey sits down with director Mark Freiburger to discuss his latest feature film, Between Borders. Mark shares the powerful true story that inspired the film, the challenges of shooting in multiple countries, and assembling a stellar cast, including stars from Lost, The Chosen, and more. Get an insider look at how this low-budget indie drama came to life and hear Mark's advice for aspiring filmmakers.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The true story behind Between Borders and why Mark was drawn to it.The unique challenges of filming in Romania on a tight 20-day schedule.How Mark assembled a cast featuring Elizabeth Tabish (The Chosen), Michael Paul Chan, and Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost).Advice for filmmakers on finding their voice and staying persistent.The importance of balancing family life and filmmaking.Key Moments:[00:53] Mark introduces Between Borders, based on a true story of survival and asylum.[02:33] Assembling the cast: From The Chosen to Lost.[06:16] Mark's journey from screenwriter to director and his passion for the project.[10:43] Overcoming challenges: Tight schedules, foreign crews, and filming logistics.[17:29] Distribution plans for Between Borders and where to watch it.About the Guest:Mark Freiburger is a director and screenwriter with a passion for telling impactful stories. His latest film, Between Borders, is a narrative drama based on a true story of an Armenian family's fight for asylum. Mark’s past work includes collaborations with Michael Bay on Transformers 4 and award-winning indie projects.About the Host:With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. Through his podcast, The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey inspires and educates the next wave of screenwriters to achieve their dreams.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Between Borders: In theaters starting January 26th, 2025.The Chosen on Netflix and PrimeConnect with the Guest:Mark Freiburger on InstagramBetween Borders Official WebsiteConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram: @screenwriterpodTikTok: @screenwriterpodDon’t forget to like, share, and review the podcast! Subscribe for more insider tips and interviews with industry professionals.#Screenwriting #Filmmaking #BetweenBorders #MarkFreiburger #IndieFilm #TheSuccessfulScreenwriterExplore Free Resources & Membership👉 Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free tools, guides, and podcast extras.Members unlock Virtual Geoffrey, the AI screenwriting assistant built to transform good drafts into great scripts.Connect with Geoffrey📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!