By Kevin Goetz
Don't Kill the Messenger, hosted by movie and entertainment research expert Kevin Goetz, brings his book Audienceology to life by sharing intimate conversations with some of the most prominent film
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In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," host Kevin Goetz sits down with Spring Aspers, the Grammy-nominated President of Sony Pictures Music Group. With a career spanning from intern to President, Spring has become a powerhouse in the film music industry. Her work on blockbuster soundtracks like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Versehas earned her critical acclaim and a Grammy nod. As the executive behind numerous hit movie soundtracks and a champion for emerging artists, Spring shares her process for choosing music for a film’s soundtrack, and discusses the details of music supervision in film.
From Bohemian Roots to Music Executive (03:43)
Spring recounts her unconventional upbringing in New York's art scene and how it shaped her passion for music.
The Anatomy of Film Soundtracks (07:54)
Spring shares a breakdown of the various roles in film music, from coordinators to executives, and their responsibilities. The pair also discuss the copyright intricacies in film soundtracks.
Emotional Resonance: Music in It Ends with Us (10:36)
Kevin and Spring talk about her involvement with the film "It Ends With Us." They discuss how the music added emotional depth the story.
The "Sunflower" Story and The Grammys (18:56)
Spring discusses her involvement in the song "Sunflower" by Post Malone and Swae Lee for Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and her Grammy nomination experience. She shares her thoughts on the importance of capturing the essence of a character through music and how "Sunflower" embodied the spirit of Miles Morales.
The Art of Musical Matchmaking (27:20)
Spring offers insights into her process of discovering artists and pairing the perfect music with film projects. She describes herself as a "musical matchmaker," always seeking to find the right sound that resonates with the heart of the story.
Music in Filmmaking (31:39)
Spring shares the challenges of integrating music into the filmmaking process and meeting tight deadlines.
The Future of Music: AI and the Human Touch (33:52)
Kevin and Spring discuss the role of AI in the music industry and the value of human creativity. Spring has an optimistic view, acknowledging AI's potential as a tool while emphasizing the enduring importance of human energy and creativity in music.
Spring Aspers offers her insight on the intersection of music and film, emphasizing the importance of creativity and the power of music to enhance storytelling. Her passion for discovering new talent and creating memorable cinematic experiences shines throughout the conversation, providing listeners with valuable insights into the world of music in film.
Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Spring Aspers
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Spring Aspers:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spring-aspers-876b063
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0039650/
Variety: https://variety.com/2019/music/news/spring-aspers-sony-pictures-president-music-1203356656/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
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In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," host Kevin Goetz sits down with Hollywood power couple Paula Wagner and Rick Nicita. Wagner has worked in the top ranks of the entertainment industry as a talent agent, studio executive, and producer. She co-founded Cruise/Wagner Productions with Tom Cruise, producing blockbuster hits like the "Mission: Impossible" franchise. Nicita worked as a successful talent agent for 5 decades before turning to production and consultation. He is currently Chairman of the American Cinematheque. Together, Wagner and Nicita offer insight into cultivating some of the most successful careers in Hollywood.
Early Careers and Transition to Becoming Agents (02:21)
Paula Wagner shares her journey from actress to agent while Rick Nicita recounts his path from law school dropout to William Morris. The couple then talk about how they met.
Hollywood Speed Round and the Art of Being an Agent (14:45)
Rick talks about some famous clients including Kevin Costner and Nicole Kidman in a celebrity speed round, and the trio discuss negotiating deals, choosing the right projects, and the importance of building long-term relationships.
Memorable Career Moments (28:04)
Paula talks about her involvement with Tom Cruise in Rain Man and Born on the 4th of July, and Rick discusses shares his experiences with high profile clients.
Cruise/Wagner Productions and United Artists (32:57)
Paula discusses her partnership with Tom Cruise, and the pair share the challenges of reviving United Artists while navigating industry changes and economic crises.
The Changing Landscape of Hollywood (40:00)
The trio discuss stardom, and how it has changed over the years, delving into the challenges of creating new movie stars and the future of audience engagement and storytelling.
Broadway and Beyond (48:00)
Paula shares about her transition to Broadway producing and her upcoming projects High Noon, and The Others. The couple reflects on the art of balancing film and theater productions.
Paula Wagner and Rick Nicita's careers offer a unique, insider perspective on the genesis of some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Wagner's journey from actress to top agent, then to successful film producer and now Broadway impresario, demonstrates her versatility and understanding of the creative process. Nicita's legacy as an agent and his transition to production and consulting highlight his expertise in talent management. Together, their experiences provide for a fascinating and inside look at how stars become stars.
Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Paula Wagner and Rick Nicita
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Paula Wagner:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paula_Wagner
X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/producerpwagner
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0906048/
For more information about Rick Nicita:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Nicita
X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/ricknicita?lang=en
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1131362/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book:
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In this special 50th episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews one of Hollywood's most successful and versatile directors, Ron Howard. His extraordinary career spans over six decades, starting as a child actor including roles on The Andy Griffith Show and Happy Days before emerging as a director at the age of 23. Howard's directorial achievements include critical and commercial successes such as Splash, Cocoon, Parenthood, Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind (for which he won the Academy Award for Best Director), Rush, Thirteen Lives, and the upcoming Eden. In this intimate conversation, Howard discusses his remarkable journey, his philosophy on maintaining artistic vision while always respecting the audience’s point of view, and his experiences working with some of Hollywood's biggest names.
Early Career and Transition to Directing (02:49)
Ron Howard discusses his journey from child actor to director, highlighting his experiences on The Andy Griffith Showand his transition from Happy Days to directing, including his early collaboration with Brian Grazer.
Working with Bette Davis as a Young Director (20:00)
Howard recounts his experience directing Bette Davis when he was 25, sharing the challenges and valuable lessons learned from working with the legendary actress.
Ron's Approach to Filmmaking (28:22)
The director explains his philosophy of creating an environment for actors to excel and his focus on understanding and communicating stories in line with audience expectations.
Ron Howard on his Notable Films and Career Highlights (31:14)
Howard reflects on his favorite projects and the diversity of his filmography.
And the Oscar Goes to… (36:16)
Ron Howard shares the emotional experience of winning Best Director for A Beautiful Mind, including an inside story about Mel Gibson presenting the award.
Unexpected Projects: Directing Solo: A Star Wars Story (40:04)
The filmmaker discusses taking on the Star Wars project under unique circumstances and his experience working in the iconic universe.
Balancing Art and Audience (43:22)
Ron Howard explains his approach to balancing artistic vision with audience expectations, emphasizing the importance of using audience feedback to inform creative decisions.
Ron Howard's career is a testament to his enduring talent, adaptability, and passion for storytelling. From his early days as Opie on The Andy Griffith Show to winning an Oscar for A Beautiful Mind, Howard has consistently delivered compelling narratives across a wide variety of genres. His ability to balance artistic vision with audience expectations has resulted in an acclaimed body of work that resonates with both critics and viewers. Ron Howard remains a well-loved and innovative figure in Hollywood, always seeking to push the boundaries of his craft while maintaining a deep respect for the audience.
Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Ron Howard
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Dax Ross, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Ron Howard:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ron_Howard
X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/RealRonHoward
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000165/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with a trailblazing figure in the entertainment industry, Cheryl Boone Isaacs. As a public relations and marketing executive, Cheryl has worked on marketing campaigns for over 300 films, including Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Forrest Gump, and The King's Speech. As the first African American and first person of color to serve as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Cheryl shares her experiences, insights, and the journey that led her to become a pivotal force for change in Hollywood.
#OscarsSoWhite (02:44)
Kevin and Cheryl discuss the #OscarsSoWhite movement, Cheryl’s role as president of The Academy, and her quest to implement inclusion initiatives.
Lessons Learned Early (09:02)
Cheryl talks about some good advice the stuck with her through the years – you don’t know enough to ask the right questions.
Early Career and Hollywood Journey (20:33)
Cheryl and Kevin discuss Cheryl’s background, growing up in Springfield, Massachusetts, her brother, Ashley Boone, and his influence on her career in Hollywood.
Personal Experiences in the Industry (27:45)
Cheryl shares some challenges she faced as an African American woman in Hollywood along with memorable moments from her publicity career including her first job working on Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
Notable African American Figures in Hollywood (34:01)
Kevin asks Cheryl for her quick takes on influential individuals like Spike Lee, Ava DuVernay, and others.
Teaching and Mentoring the Next Generation (38:53)
Cheryl shares her approach to educating film students and the importance of understanding filmmaking as a collaborative process.
The Future of Hollywood and Diversity (40:55)
Cheryl offers insights on the progress made and challenges ahead along with the importance of collaborative voices in the creative process.
Throughout her career, Cheryl Boone Isaacs has broken barriers. From her start in marketing, to her role as president of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and continuing with her current position of guiding future filmmakers at the Sidney Poitier New American Film School, Boone Isaacs offers valuable lessons for those entering the film world, reinforcing the importance of diversity, collaboration, and perseverance 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 Goetz
Guest: Cheryl Boone Isaacs
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Cheryl Boone Isaacs:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheryl_Boone_Isaacs
Sidney Poitier New American Film School: https://search.asu.edu/profile/4102960
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3723795/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com
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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews the directing, producing, and writing team of Will Speck and Josh Gordon. This talented duo has made their mark across various media, directing feature films such as Blades of Glory, Office Christmas Party, and Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. They've also created iconic commercials, including the Geico caveman and gecko campaigns, and ventured into television with their animated series Hit-Monkey on Hulu. The pair discusses their journey from film school to becoming successful filmmakers, their experiences with test screenings, and insights into their creative process across different mediums.
Film School and an Early Partnership (02:00)
The pair share how they met in NYU film school and started collaborating. The discussion turns to their first jobs in the industry and their transition from New York to Los Angeles.
Blades of Glory and an Intense Audience Screening (9:41)
Kevin asks Will and Josh about the making of Blades of Glory and their first test screening experience.
“Even a Caveman can do it” -- Commercial Work (20:37)
The pair discuss their work on famous commercials like the Geico caveman and gecko commercials, and how commercial work has influenced their filmmaking.
Recent Projects and Creative Growth (30:41)
Josh and Will share details about their animated series Hit Monkey on Hulu and their reflections on making the musical film Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.
Career Reflections and Advice to Young Filmmakers (32:09)
Josh shares his proudest achievement: an impactful PSA on organ donation and Will discusses the importance of their partnership.
Upcoming Projects and Industry Outlook (41:00)
The pair share their thoughts on the future of the film industry and discuss their upcoming projects, including an adaptation of "The Wedding People" with Nicole Holofcener.
Will Speck and Josh Gordon offer a unique perspective on navigating the film industry as a writing, directing, and producing duo. Their experience across different mediums - from commercials to feature films to streaming content - demonstrates the value of maintaining a varied portfolio of work while continually pushing creative boundaries and nurturing a productive partnership. 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 Goetz
Guests: Will Speck and Josh Gordon
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Will Speck and Josh Gordon:
Speck Gordon, Inc.: https://www.speckgordon.com/home
IMDB (Josh Gordon): https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0330347/
IMDB (Will Speck): https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0817447/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will_Speck_and_Josh_Gordon
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com
Send Kevin a Text Message
In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, Kevin Goetz sits down with DeVon Franklin, film and TV producer, bestselling author, motivational speaker, and former studio executive. Franklin is known for his work on inspirational films such as Breakthrough, Miracles from Heaven, and Flamin' Hot, as well as the BET series Kingdom Business. With a unique blend of faith, business savvy, and creative vision, Franklin has bridged the gap between mainstream entertainment and faith-based content. The conversation explores Franklin's journey in the entertainment industry, his approach to faith-based filmmaking, and his insights on what makes a successful movie.
DeVon's Background (02:10)
Kevin and DeVon discuss DeVon’s values and background in spirituality, and how his upbringing, family, and early influences shaped his views.
Early Career and Overbrook Entertainment (11:03)
Franklin talks about his internship experiences and work with Will Smith's production company, Overbrook entertainment, and the lessons he learned from working with high-profile talent.
Transition to Studio Executive (16:57)
Franklin shares his studio experiences at MGM and later Sony Pictures where he rose to become a senior executive.
Faith-Based Filmmaking (23:49)
Kevin and DeVon discuss what defines a faith-based film, and the pair analyze successful projects like Miracles from Heaven and Heaven is for Real. The talk turns to challenges and opportunities in the faith-based market.
Understanding the Audience (34:08)
Franklin touches on his approach to marketing faith-based films and the importance of knowing your audience as well as tailoring strategies for reaching both faith-based and mainstream audiences.
Current Projects and Working with Tyler Perry (36:05)
Franklin shares details on his upcoming film Relationship Goals. He discusses his partnership with Tyler Perry for Netflix.
Lessons from Past Projects (41:39)
Kevin and DeVon discuss DeVon’s animated film, The Star, and its performance which leads to reflections on learning from both successes and challenges in the industry.
DeVon Franklin's journey in Hollywood serves as a testament to the power of combining faith, business acumen, and a deep understanding of audiences. Throughout the conversation, Franklin offers insights into the nuances of faith-based filmmaking, the importance of marketing strategies, and the evolving landscape of entertainment. 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 Goetz
Guest: DeVon Franklin
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about DeVon Franklin:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DeVon_FranklinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/devonfranklin/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2035952/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.Scre
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In Part 2 of this 2-part episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," host Kevin Goetz sits down with the iconic Sharon Stone to discuss her journey through Hollywood, her experiences with fame, and her philanthropic endeavors. Stone shares personal stories about her rise to stardom, her approach to acting and producing, and lessons she has learned along the way.
Basic Instinct (00:53)
With the premiere of Basic Instinct at Cannes, Sharon Stone went from being a working actress to an international movie star. She discusses her experience at the Cannes Film Festival and describes the fan reaction and her sudden rise to fame.
Navigating Fame (08:57)
Sharon talks about preparing for red carpet events, and Kevin shares a story about what it was like to accompany Sharon in Cannes.
Mentors in Hollywood (13:45)
Sharon discusses the guidance she received from established actresses like Faye Dunaway, Shirley MacLaine, Diane Cannon, Angie Dickinson, and others who helped her with advice on the realities of fame.
Producing and Casting Instincts (17:38)
Sharon talks about her role in producing The Mighty. Kevin and Sharon discuss her eye for recognizing promising actors like Russell Crowe and Leonardo DiCaprio.
Philanthropy and AIDS Advocacy (27:36)
Sharon shares the origins of her involvement with amfAR and discusses the personal and professional impact of her advocacy work. Stone's commitment to AIDS advocacy showcases her willingness to use her platform for meaningful change, even at a potential cost to her career.
Balancing Career and Authenticity (34:56)
Sharon addresses misconceptions about being "difficult" in the industry and emphasizes her professionalism and work ethic on set.
Parenting and Personal Growth (39:08)
Sharon reflects on the challenges and rewards of being a parent and discusses the impact of parenthood on her personal development.
In Part Two of this two-part interview, Sharon reveals the depth of her character beyond her silver screen persona. From her candid reflections on fame to her commitment to philanthropy, Stone shows how she uses her platform for good. Her friendship with Kevin Goetz adds a personal touch to the conversation. 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 Goetz
Guest: Sharon Stone
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Sharon Stone:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharon_Stone
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharonstone/?hl=en
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0629334/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com
Send Kevin a Text Message
In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," Kevin Goetz sits down with his longtime friend, the legendary actress Sharon Stone. Sharon shares intimate stories about her upbringing, her journey into modeling and acting, and the challenges she has faced in the entertainment industry.
Humble Beginnings (2:00)
Sharon discusses her upbringing in the small farming community of Meadville, Pennsylvania, where her family struggled financially.
A Painful Childhood Lesson (9:12)
Sharon shares a painful childhood memory of being slapped by a popular girl in school, drawing parallels to the challenges she has faced in Hollywood. Kevin describes it as trying to “slap the different out of you,” and praises Sharon for persevering while opening herself up to criticism and ridicule.
The Craft of Acting (12:13)
Sharon and Kevin discuss her approach to acting and her preference for working with directors like Martin Scorcese in Casino, Paul Verhoeven in Basic Instinct, and Albert Brooks in The Muse, who prioritize the craft over ego. She stresses that she has never accepted a role solely for the money, always prioritizing the quality of the work.
Fair Compensation (15:56)
Sharon discusses the pay disparity between male and female actors in Hollywood, advocating for fair compensation. She highlights the importance of knowing her worth in the overall value of her films.
The Magic of Movies (18:22)
Sharon and Kevin talk about the importance of the moviegoing experience and the need for studio executives to understand the emotional connection people have with films. She stresses the significance of creating movies with emotional intelligence that evoke powerful emotions.
From Small-Town Beauty Queen to Model (20:29)
Sharon recounts her journey into modeling, starting with her participation in the Miss Crawford County pageant and her encounter with Muhammad Ali.
Working with Woody Allen and James Caan (25:39)
Sharon shares her experience getting her start as an extra on Woody Allen's Stardust Memories and how her part was expanded after impressing the director and cinematographer. She also discusses her instant rapport with James Caan on the set of a Claude Lelouch film.
In Part One of this two-part interview, Sharon Stone opens up about her journey from being a studious, small-town girl to a Hollywood icon through talent, perseverance, and commitment to her craft. Through this candid conversation with her close friend, Kevin Goetz, listeners gain an intimate look at the person behind the persona. 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 Goetz
Guest: Sharon Stone
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Sharon Stone:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharon_Stone
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharonstone/?hl=en
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0629334/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @K
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In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," Kevin Goetz sits down with director and producer, Joseph McGinty Nichol, better known as McG. They discuss McG's journey in the entertainment industry, starting with music videos and leading to his directorial debut with Charlie's Angels, which had, at the time, the highest-grossing opening weekend for a directorial debut. Through his production company, Wonderland Sound and Vision, McG has overseen the production of films and television shows such as Terminator Salvation, This Means War, We Are Marshall, and Family Switch along with The OC, and Turner and Hooch for television. In this personal conversation, McG also touches on his struggles with agoraphobia, and the importance of audience feedback in the filmmaking process.
First Time Director with a Huge Budget (1:39)
McG shares his experience directing his first full-length feature film, Charlie's Angels, how Drew Barrymore helped him get the job, and how he nearly got fired multiple times due to the studio's concerns about the film's direction.
Living with Agoraphobia and Panic Attacks (9:51)
McG opens up about his struggles with agoraphobia, how it affected his career, including being fired from Superman Returns, and his path to live with the challenge.
Music Videos and Style in Filmmaking (21:49)
Kevin and McG discuss how music videos have influenced filmmakers like McG, Spike Jonze, Michael Bay, and David Fincher, helping them develop unique styles and voices in the industry.
The Secret to Success: Audience Testing (24:08)
McG reveals one of his secrets to success: working with Kevin Goetz and his audience testing process, which has helped him improve his films and connect with viewers.
Incorporating Audience Feedback on We Are Marshall (29:48)
McG recalls a specific audience feedback moment that led to a significant change in We Are Marshall, highlighting the importance of listening to, learning from, and respecting the audience.
Mentors and Influences (36:37)
McG discusses his primary filmmaking influences, including Alfred Hitchcock and Quentin Tarantino.
Kevin Goetz and McG explore the director's journey in the entertainment industry, his personal struggles, and the importance of audience feedback in the filmmaking process. The interview highlights the unique bond between the filmmaker and the audience researcher, showcasing how their collaboration can elevate a film's success. The pair close by discussing McG’s upcoming projects, Way of the Warrior Kid and Uglies. 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 Goetz
Guest: McG
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes, DG Entertainment
For more information about McG:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McG
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcgfilm/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0629334/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website:
Send Kevin a Text Message
In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," Kevin Goetz sits down with Greg Foster, former CEO of IMAX Entertainment and current owner of the entertainment and media consulting firm, Foster + Crew. Foster grew up immersed in the world of Hollywood, with a father who was a successful film producer. This early exposure to the industry laid the foundation for Foster's career. From his childhood memories of rubbing elbows with Hollywood royalty, to his pivotal role in the evolution of IMAX, to his more recent experiences as a sought-after consultant, Foster shares insider stories along with a unique perspective on the business of moviemaking and the cinematic experience.
Growing up in Hollywood and a memorable encounter with Mel Brooks (3:09)
Foster discusses his upbringing in Beverly Hills and the influence of his father, David Foster, a successful film producer, on his career path. He recounts a memorable experience early in his career at MGM/UA, where he delivered test screening results to Mel Brooks for the movie Spaceballs.
Steve McQueen, Ali MacGraw, and Greg’s Father (16:12)
Foster shares a story about his father's involvement in the production of The Getaway, starring Steve McQueen and Ali MacGraw, and the confrontation that ensued when MacGraw's then-husband, Robert Evans, discovered the affair between the two stars.
Apollo 13 and the evolution of IMAX (22:22)
The pair discuss the transformation of IMAX to a premier movie experience. IMAX's 2002 re-release partnership with Apollo 13, originally produced in 1995 by Academy Award winner Brian Grazer and directed by Oscar winner Ron Howard, marked a turning point for the company. It was the first Hollywood movie to be digitally remastered using IMAX DMR technology, showcasing IMAX's ability to enhance the emotional experience of a film.
Christopher Nolan and Batman Begins (29:15)
Kevin and Greg talk about the critical role of Warner Bros. and Christopher Nolan in the growth of IMAX, particularly with the release of Batman Begins and The Dark Knight.
Consulting with Foster + Crew (38:47)
Greg shares insights into his consulting firm, Foster + Crew, and the various services he provides to his clients in the entertainment industry.
The future of cinema in the streaming era (44:11)
Kevin and Greg touch on the impact of streaming on the theatrical experience and the future of cinema, post COVID, Barbenheimer and the 2023 Hollywood strikes.
From his early days at MGM/UA to his pivotal role in transforming IMAX into a global cinematic powerhouse, Foster's stories offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of the film industry. Foster remains optimistic about the future of moviegoing, particularly with the impressive slate of films set for release in 2025. 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 Goetz
Guest: Greg Foster
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
For more information about Greg Foster:
Variety: https://variety.com/exec/greg-foster/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website:
The podcast currently has 52 episodes available.