The Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith

Tom Bissell, a talented screenwriter known for his work on Andor and The Disaster Artist, dives into the creative journey behind the gripping finale of Andor Season 2. He discusses the delicate balance of adapting beloved narratives while infusing new ideas. Bissell shares insights from the writer's room, detailing the complex character arcs and emotional stakes, especially the tragic fate of Lonnie. He also reveals intriguing unexecuted concepts and emphasizes the importance of collaboration in crafting rich, character-driven stories.

Dan Gilroy, a talented screenwriter known for his work on Andor and Nightcrawler, dives into the creative challenges behind crafting the show's narrative. He shares insights into a discarded draft featuring K2SO and the symbolism of visual cues like a blinking light on Coruscant. The conversation highlights character complexities, including Cassian's skepticism and Mon Mothma's moral dilemmas within a revolutionary context. Gilroy also hints at exciting upcoming projects, making it a must-listen for fans of storytelling in film.

Beau Willimon, the creative mind behind House of Cards and writer for Andor, dives into the political intricacies of Season 2's episodes 4-6. He shares his evolution as a storyteller, influenced by formative experiences and the chaos of real-world politics. The discussion highlights character motivations, emphasizing the emotional and moral complexities that drive the narrative. Passionate insights on the rewriting process for a pivotal heist scene showcase the balance between dialogue and visual storytelling, enriching the series' themes of resistance and victory.

Tony Gilroy, the mastermind behind *Andor*, takes listeners behind the scenes of Season 2. He reveals how COVID-19 reshaped the creative process, leading to innovative storytelling techniques. The evolution of character arcs is discussed, particularly how audience feedback influences plot developments. Gilroy also dives into themes of misinformation and power dynamics, resonating with today's societal issues. Plus, he highlights the clever use of humor amid serious narratives, enriching the character-driven storytelling that defines *Andor*.

Host Jeff Goldsmith interviews co-writers Jillian Jacobs and Chris Roach about Drop. Download my podcast here Copyright © Unlikely Films, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. For more great content check out Backstory Magazine @ Backstory.net

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