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The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Written by: Geoffrey D Calhoun
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About this listen

 Welcome to The Successful Screenwriter Podcast your go-to source for in-depth discussions, expert insights, and captivating interviews in the world of screenwriting. Hosted by seasoned screenwriter Geoffrey D. Calhoun, this podcast is a valuable resource for both novice and experienced screenwriters, offering a wealth of insights and guidance.

About the Podcast:
Dive deep into the art and craft of screenwriting with our engaging episodes that cover a spectrum of topics – from mastering the screenplay format to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry. Each episode is designed to inspire, educate, and entertain, providing valuable takeaways for writers at every stage of their journey.

Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriting instructor and best selling author with a passion for storytelling. With a proven track record in the film industry, Geoffrey has not only honed his craft as a successful screenwriter but also shares his wealth of knowledge as an instructor. His unique journey in the world of screenwriting has equipped him with a unique perspective, making him an essential guide for screenwriters of all levels.

Key Features:
  • Expert Interviews: Gain insights from renowned screenwriters, filmmakers, and industry professionals who share their experiences, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories.
  • Screenwriting Tips: Unlock the secrets of successful screenwriting with actionable tips, tricks, and techniques discussed in every episode.
  • Film Analysis: Explore in-depth film analyses, breaking down the storytelling techniques that make movies memorable and impactful.
  • Exclusive Industry Insights: Access exclusive industry secrets and stay updated on the latest trends. Get insider knowledge to navigate the world of screenwriting with confidence.
Connect with Us:
  • Subscribe to the podcast on Spreaker for regular updates.
  • Engage with us on Instagram @screenwriterpod for the latest news, discussions, and community interactions.
  • Visit our official website thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for additional resources such as: Screenwriting Gigs, Screenplay Library, Seminars and other exclusive content.
Embark on your screenwriting journey with The Successful Screebwriter Podcast. Let's transform your storytelling aspirations into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Subscribe to our screenwriting podcast now and join our vibrant community of storytellers!

Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)Copyright IFH Podcast Network Art
Episodes
  • Ep 261 - Lyndal Simpson on Winning Script Summit & Landing an Option

    Ep 261 - Lyndal Simpson on Winning Script Summit & Landing an Option
    Feb 26 2025
    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 List
    Connect with the Guest:
    • IMDb: Lyndal Simpson
    • On Coverfly
    Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:
    • The Successful Screenwriter Podcast
    • Instagram: @screenwriterpod
    • TikTok: @screenwriterpod
    • Website: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com
    Enjoy this episode? Don’t forget to like, share, and review! Subscribe for more screenwriting insights and industry interviews.

    #Screenwriting #ScriptSummit #WritingCommunity #Filmmaking #Screenwriter #Screenplay #IndieFilm
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    17 mins
  • Ep 260 - How a Short Film Went Viral with Fritz Frauendorf

    Ep 260 - How a Short Film Went Viral with Fritz Frauendorf
    Feb 18 2025
    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 films
    • The importance of visual storytelling in short-form content
    • The marketing strategies that helped Manic Man go viral
    • The role of local film premieres in networking and career growth
    • How short films can serve as proof of concept for feature-length projects
    • The balance between artistic expression and audience engagement
    Key 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 ahead
    About 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 Instagram
    Connect with Fritz Frauendorf:
    • Instagram: @fritzandlewisfilms
    Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:
    • Website: The Successful Screenwriter
    • Instagram: @screenwriterpod
    • TikTok: @screenwriterpod

    If 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 #Screenwriter
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    16 mins
  • EP 259 - Companion – AI Horror, Love, and the Fight for Autonomy

    EP 259 - Companion – AI Horror, Love, and the Fight for Autonomy
    Feb 10 2025
    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 Screenwriter
    • Instagram: @screenwriterpod
    • TikTok: @screenwriterpod
    Enjoyed 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 #MovieReview
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    21 mins
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