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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz brings together three of his top focus group moderators from Screen Engine to reveal the secrets behind their craft during the filmmaking stage of movie testing. Terri Cavanaugh (VP of Qualitative Insights), Ari Virgil-Paige (Executive VP of the Movie Group), and Aaron Feuer (VP of the Movie Group) reveal how honest audience feedback helps filmmakers perfect their vision.

What Makes Focus Groups Essential (01:43) The moderators explain why there's no substitute for hearing verbally from audiences and how focus groups add crucial nuance beyond quantitative data.

The Magic First Question (02:27) Aaron reveals the power of asking "Can you give me a word or phrase to describe what you just saw?" and how those initial responses catalyze entire conversations.

What Makes a Great Moderator (06:33) The team discusses essential qualities, including curiosity, intuition that can't be taught, and the ability to read a room while multitasking through multiple layers of observation.

The Most Important Question (14:04) Each moderator shares their approach to the one question they'd ask if limited to just one, revealing different philosophies about serving the client versus finding truth.

Dealing with Naysayers (18:51) The moderators address criticism head-on, explaining why they're advocates for the audience, not critics looking to serve their agendas.

Handling Difficult Respondents (27:29) Practical advice on managing disruptive participants, from body language techniques to knowing when to remove someone entirely.

Building Trust Quickly (30:42) Techniques for engaging audiences immediately, from working with shy kids to using strategic authenticity to create safe spaces for honest feedback.

Filmmaker Appreciation (35:12) Stories of working with receptive movie directors like Peter Farrelly, Paul Feig, Matt Damon, and the Russo Brothers, who embrace the process and see research as a valuable tool.

The Art of the Nugget (41:22) How one small audience insight can crack the code and solve major story problems, with examples of breakthrough moments that transformed films.

These moderators demonstrate that great focus group leadership combines theatrical instincts, detective curiosity, and empathy for both audiences and filmmakers. Their stories reveal the delicate balance of extracting truth while respecting the creative process.

Please leave us a review and share our podcast with others. 

Host: Kevin Goetz

Guests: Terri Cavanaugh, Ari Virgil-Paige, and Aaron Feuer

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Screen Engine: 

Website: https://www.screenengineasi.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/screen-engine-asi

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

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with Michael Uslan, the originator and executive producer of the Batman and Batman-related movie universe, who turned his childhood passion for comic books into Hollywood gold. As an avid comic book collector and Batman superfan, Uslan is proof that following your passion pays off. He shares the story of his decade-long journey to bring a dark, serious Batman to the big screen after being horrified by the campy 1960s TV show.

The Origin of Michael Uslan’s Passion (07:47)
Uslan reveals his "secret origin" moment: watching the first episode of the 1966 Batman TV series and making a vow like young Bruce Wayne to someday show the world the true, dark Batman.

Ten Years of Hollywood Rejection (09:53)
From October 1979 to the first Batman movie's release, Uslan shares how he and partner Ben Melnicker faced rejection from every studio in Hollywood.

Batman's Batman (15:12)
When offered the chance to make a campy Batman movie, Uslan said no. His partner Ben called him "Batman's Batman," the character's defender who would stand by his initial vision.

Peter Guber Says Yes (16:15)
Uslan details how former 20th Century Fox president Peter Guber became the first executive excited about his dark Batman vision, leading to a nine-and-a-half-year journey to production.

Financing the Dream (22:43)
Uslan explains how he quit his job when his wife was nine months pregnant and raised money by selling project shares to his network, who invested in him, not Batman.

Comic Book Academic Pioneer (25:16)
Uslan recounts becoming the first person to teach an accredited college course on comic books at Indiana University as a Junior, leading to national publicity and a life-changing phone call from Stan Lee.

Stan Lee's Mentorship and Marvel's Debt to Batman (39:54)
Uslan shares Stan Lee's revelation that the Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn't exist without his Batman, which proved superhero movies should focus on the person.

Tim Burton and Michael Keaton (40:58)
Uslan describes discovering Tim Burton through Pee-Wee's Big Adventure and Burton's genius decision to cast Michael Keaton, initially against Uslan's wishes.

Uslan demonstrates persistence, vision, and the courage to say no when protecting something he believed in. His journey from comic book collector to Hollywood producer offers insights into passion-driven success, handling rejection, and the importance of having people who believe in you.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share. We look forward to bringing you more behind-the-scenes revelations next time on Don't Kill the Messenger.

Host: Kevin Goetz

Guest: Michael Uslan

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more info about Michael Uslan:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mich

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer, the mastermind behind billion-dollar blockbusters, including Top Gun, Pirates of the Caribbean, Bad Boys, Beverly Hills Cop, and the television shows CSI, The Amazing Race, and Fire Country. Bruckheimer shares insights into his detailed approach to filmmaking, the power of test screenings, and what it takes to consistently deliver crowd-pleasing entertainment.

The Power of Audience Testing (01:22)

Bruckheimer emphasizes the crucial role audience research has played in his success, citing examples like Armageddon and Bad Boys: Ride or Die, which both saw significant improvements in test screening scores.

The Origins of Top Gun and Casting Tom Cruise (08:49)

Bruckheimer reveals how Top Gun almost didn't get made due to studio concerns about airplane movies, and his brilliant strategy of arranging for Tom Cruise to fly with the Blue Angels, which sealed Cruise's commitment to the project.

Learning from The Lone Ranger (18:05)

Goetz and Bruckheimer analyze why The Lone Ranger didn't connect with audiences, emphasizing how budget discussions overshadowed the creative vision and the importance of early concept testing.

F1: The Upcoming Blockbuster (24:20)

Bruckheimer details the three-year process of making F1, from convincing Formula 1 teams to participate to achieving record-breaking test screening scores.

Working with Hollywood Legends (29:22)

Bruckheimer shares personal stories about collaborating with icons like Gene Hackman, Will Smith, Eddie Murphy, and Johnny Depp.

Television Empire and The Amazing Race (40:01)

With 10 Emmy wins for The Amazing Race and over 2000 episodes across franchises like CSI and Fire Country, Bruckheimer discusses his approach to television and how he maintains the quality across multiple projects.

Over the course of the interview, Bruckheimer shares how his pursuit of perfection, genuine respect for audiences, and ability to adapt while maintaining his core philosophy, "I don't make movies for anybody but the audience," contributed to his mega success. His insights reveal the strategic thinking and collaborative spirit behind some of Hollywood's biggest franchises.

Host: Kevin Goetz

Guest: Jerry Bruckheimer

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Jerry Bruckheimer:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Bruckheimer

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000988/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerrybruckheimer/?hl

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with Arnold Rifkin, the legendary talent agent who pioneered the concept of a total talent agency and helped build one of Hollywood's most recognizable action stars. From founding Triad Artists to leading William Morris's film division and producing blockbuster films alongside Bruce Willis, Rifkin has built careers, brokered deals, and produced films over the course of four decades. He shares candid stories about deal-making, friendship, and the business of entertainment.

Building an Agency Empire (03:21)

Rifkin discusses his sales DNA, inherited from his father, and founding an agency with Nicole David for just $1,500. He also shares the story of discovering Bruce Willis and building Triad Artists into a powerhouse before being acquired by William Morris.

Bruce Willis Partnership and Discovery (11:52)

Arnold shares Bruce's Moonlighting casting story, including his first impression, their shared speech impediment, and how Bruce's swagger and humor made him a star, despite not being a typical leading man.

The Die Hard Deal and Negotiation Mastery (19:26)

Arnold reveals the high-stakes negotiation technique he used that secured Bruce Willis $5 million for Die Hard. He also shares the Look Who's Talking voiceover deal and the Seagram's wine cooler campaign, which shed light on his deal-making prowess.

From Agent to Producer (26:57)

Rifkin explains his decision to leave agenting after 35 years, partnering with Bruce Willis to form Cheyenne Entertainment, and his spiritual transformation through Native American practices that guided this major career shift.

Bruce's Health and Honoring His Legacy (34:22)

Arnold speaks movingly about maintaining his friendship with Bruce during his health challenges, their continued Friday lunches, and plans to honor Bruce's legacy through a documentary with his new company, Incite.

Life Philosophy and Legacy (42:34)

Rifkin reflects on choosing abundance over scarcity, teaching at UCLA for 15 years, raising five children, and how true success isn't about material possessions but about the impact you make on others.

Throughout the conversation, Rifkin demonstrates the relationship-building, risk-taking, and loyalty that defined his extraordinary career. From an immigrant’s son to Hollywood power broker, his journey offers insights into deal-making, friendship, and the human side of the entertainment industry.

Host: Kevin Goetz

Guest: Arnold Rifkin

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Arnold Rifkin:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arnold_Rifkin

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0726476/

Incite Studios: https://www.incite-studios.com/

For more information about Ke

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews Scott Ross, a pioneering figure in the visual effects industry. As the former general manager of Industrial Light and Magic (ILM), Senior VP of LucasArts Entertainment, and co-founder of Digital Domain with James Cameron and Stan Winston, Scott Ross shares insights into the evolution of visual effects, from practical models to the digital revolution. His impressive portfolio includes iconic films like Star Wars, Terminator 2, Titanic, Apollo 13, and What Dreams May Come, and in this conversation, Ross reflects on working with some of Hollywood's greatest directors and creative minds.

Early Career and Entry into Visual Effects (01:59)
Ross talks about his unexpected journey from studying film at Hofstra University to running ILM.

The Evolution of Visual Effects (04:26)
Ross offers a historical perspective on the development of visual effects, from early innovations like The Great Train Robbery and Trip to the Moon, through the stop-motion animation of King Kong, to the groundbreaking digital effects of the 1980s.

Working at Industrial Light and Magic (09:19)
Ross recounts his experience running ILM, explaining how he rose through the ranks despite having limited direct experience with the optical and chemical processes used before the digital era.

Seminal Projects: Who Framed Roger Rabbit (15:04)
Ross shares insights on his groundbreaking work on Who Framed Roger Rabbit.

Collaborating with George Lucas and James Cameron (17:57)
Ross offers candid reflections on working with George Lucas and his partnership with James Cameron in founding Digital Domain.

Visual Effects Economics and Challenges (25:54)
Ross explains why visual effects are so expensive, mainly due to the enormous personnel requirements.

The Impact of AI on Visual Effects (30:36)
Ross offers a balanced view of artificial intelligence as both "an incredibly wonderful technology" and a potentially frightening force that could eliminate jobs.

Reflections on Iconic Films (39:09)
In a rapid-fire segment, Ross shares memories of working on films like Apollo 13, Titanic, Terminator 2, and What Dreams May Come.

Throughout the conversation, Ross shares his perspective as a business leader who navigated the transition from creating practical to digital effects, offering both historical context and insights about the future of filmmaking as the technology continues to evolve.

We look forward to bringing you more revelations from behind the scenes next time on Don't Kill the Messenger! Please leave us a review or connect on social media.

Host: Kevin Goetz

Guest: Scott Ross

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Scott Ross:

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews Mike Marcus, whose impressive 57-year career spans from agency mailroom to MGM Pictures president to management company founder. In his early career as an agent, Marcus built an impressive client roster including Robin Williams, John Landis, and Sidney Pollack before transitioning into a top studio executive role and eventually launching the management division at Echo Lake Entertainment. Marcus was instrumental in bringing iconic films like The Fisher King, Trading Places, An American Werewolf in London, Get Shorty, and Stargate to the screen.

The Agency Mailroom: Hollywood's Ultimate Training Ground (01:37)
Marcus explains why starting in an agency mailroom provides unparalleled industry education through networking and on-the-job training.

Building a Client Roster and Packaging Films (07:07)
Marcus discusses how he excelled at assembling creative teams for projects like Fisher King with Robin Williams and Terry Gilliam.

The CAA Years and Client Relationships (10:48)
After launching Cunningham Levy Marcus, he moved to CAA where he represented major talents, building the relationships that defined his career.

Transition to Studio Executive at MGM (14:21)
Marcus details his surprising move from agent to MGM Pictures president in 1993, where his packaging skills lent themselves to studio leadership..

The Value of Research and Testing (22:50)
Looking back on projects like Stargate, Marcus reflects on his evolution from a "gut instinct" filmmaker to appreciating audience research.

The Streaming Revolution and Theater Experience (27:44)
Marcus shares his perspective on streaming's impact on theatrical moviegoing, believing theaters will always exist while acknowledging how streaming has changed the viewing landscape.

Building Echo Lake Entertainment (31:19)
Now approaching 20 years at Echo Lake, Marcus discusses what makes a great representative and reveals the fulfillment that came with building the company.

Industry Outlook and Future Projects (33:11)
Marcus shares his optimism about independent film's potential resurgence, concerns about decreasing compensation for talent, and shares his current projects.

Throughout the conversation, Marcus demonstrates how his skill for recognizing creative talent and building relationships helped create classic films through the years. His journey from agency mailroom to industry leader offers essential insights for anyone interested in the inner workings of 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: Mike Marcus

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Mike Marcus:

IMDB:

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews Tony Sella, the legendary marketing executive behind some of Hollywood's most iconic movie campaigns. During his decades at 20th Century Fox, Sella was the creative force behind unforgettable posters, trailers, taglines, and promotions for films including Avatar, X-Men, Independence Day, Bohemian Rhapsody, and nearly 1,000 others. He shares insights into his creative process, memorable marketing moments, and the philosophy that guided his extraordinary career.

Research as the Foundation for Creative Solutions (01:55) Sella emphasizes that research is only as valuable as the questions asked, highlighting how audience feedback helped solve marketing challenges for films like The Happening and Life of Pi. He and Goetz discuss their long collaboration using qualitative research to refine marketing approaches for hundreds of successful campaigns.

Finding the "Essential Idea" in Marketing (03:56) Sella explains his unique ability to identify a film's core marketing hook, as demonstrated with the Devil Wears Prada campaign featuring the iconic Prada shoe as a trident.

Balancing Trailer Impact with Movie Quality (11:35) Sella reveals a crucial marketing principle about the relationship between trailers and the films they promote, using examples from both Avatar and The Simpsons Movie. For good movies, the trailer must be exceptional, while for truly great films, the trailer must match the emotional impact of the film itself.

Groundbreaking Campaigns: Independence Day (15:49) Describing the legendary Super Bowl spot featuring the White House explosion, Sella explains how they created a cultural phenomenon with the tagline "Enjoy the Super Bowl. It may be your last."

From Disney to Fox: Career Evolution (21:12) Sella recalls getting his "PhD" at Disney, working on hits like Good Morning Vietnam before moving to Fox, where he helped transform films like Taken through innovative marketing approaches and identifying powerful campaign hooks.

The Three Pillars of Creative Success (43:55) Reflecting on campaigns for Walk the Line and Bohemian Rhapsody, Sella shares his philosophy that the most important elements in creative work are passion, talent, and taste—innate qualities that cannot be acquired.

During this lively discussion, Sella showcases the creative intuition that made him a marketing legend while acknowledging the collaborative nature of his success. His story offers helpful insights for anyone interested in film marketing, promotion, or the art of connecting with audiences.

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: Tony Sella

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more i

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews Shane Black, one of Hollywood's highest-paid screenwriters, who redefined action films with witty dialogue, dark humor, and unforgettable characters. From Lethal Weapon to The Nice Guys, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and Iron Man 3, Shane discusses his journey from a self-described "oddball" to a filmmaking powerhouse.

Pittsburgh Roots and Early Influences (02:55)

Born in Pittsburgh, Black shares how his father's printing business and bookshelf of detective novels sparked his love for "tough guy literature" that would later influence his writing style.

Overcoming Personal Struggles (08:00)

Black candidly discusses his battles with OCD and alcoholism. He reveals how he transformed these challenges into creative strengths and encourages others to "just lean into being weird."

The Psychology Behind His Characters (12:04)

Black explains how his characters often represent different aspects of his own psychology. He emphasizes that truly compelling writing comes from creating characters with authentic emotional DNA that resonates with the writer's own experiences.

The Creation of Lethal Weapon (15:32)

Black describes Lethal Weapon as "an urban western" with Mel Gibson's character representing "a Frankenstein kept in a cage" - a Vietnam veteran reviled by society but needed when violence intrudes on everyday life.

Working with Hollywood Icons (27:13)

Black shares insights about working with legends like Richard Donner, Tony Scott, Joel Silver, and Robert Downey Jr.

From Writer to Director (40:06)

Black explains his transition to directing to have more creative control over his work. Black adds that directing allows him to move beyond returning to the blank page and into a more collaborative aspect of filmmaking.

Latest Project: Play Dirty (52:01)

Black discusses working with Mark Wahlberg, and adapting Donald Westlake's Parker series for Amazon, calling Westlake "the king" among mystery writers and explaining his lifelong admiration for these stories he first read at age 12.

Throughout the conversation, Black offers a masterclass on screenwriting in Hollywood. Black and Kevin Goetz discover numerous personal connections, creating an unusually intimate portrait of a filmmaker who transformed Hollywood's action genre. His journey from a bookish child to acclaimed filmmaker serves as proof that leaning into one's unique perspective can lead to extraordinary creative achievements.

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: Shane Black

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Shane Black:

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz welcomes an industry titan-- film producer and studio executive Mike Medavoy. With a career spanning over five decades, Medavoy has been closely involved with over 300 feature films, with seven winning Best Picture Oscars. From agent to studio chief to producer, his remarkable journey from Shanghai to Hollywood has shaped some of cinema's most important films, including Rocky, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Apocalypse Now, Platoon, and Silence of the Lambs. With characteristic humility and wisdom, Medavoy shares fascinating stories from his illustrious career.

Early Life and Global Upbringing (03:12)

Born in Shanghai in 1941 to Russian-Ukrainian Jewish parents, Medavoy moved to Chile in 1947 before settling in California, speaking Shanghai-nese, Russian, Spanish, and English.

Breaking into Hollywood (07:40)

After UCLA and the US Army Reserve, Medavoy started in Universal's mailroom in 1964, making industry friendships that became the foundation of his career.

From Agent to Studio Executive (11:15)

Medavoy recounts transitioning from talent agent to Senior VP of Production at United Artists, where his first major film was One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

United Artists and an Unprecedented Oscar Run (16:26)

At UA, Medavoy helped shepherd three consecutive Best Picture winners: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Rocky, and Annie Hall.

Formation of Orion Pictures (19:43)

Medavoy discusses co-founding Orion Pictures, which produced classics like Amadeus, Platoon, and The Silence of the Lambs.

Stories Behind the Classics (24:26)

Fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about iconic films including Platoon, Terminator, and Apocalypse Now.

Advice for the Next Generation (38:56) For emerging filmmakers, Medavoy recommends "The Story of Film" as essential viewing.

Throughout this conversation, Medavoy reveals himself as not just an industry treasure but a thoughtful observer of both cinema and life. His journey from immigrant roots to Hollywood exemplifies the dream many pursue but few achieve. With remarkable candor, he discusses both triumphs and regrets, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of someone who has truly shaped modern cinema while remaining, as Kevin notes, "a very charming and decent human being."

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: Mike Medavoy

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Mike Medavoy:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Medavoy
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name

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 Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with Chris Landon, the acclaimed writer, director, and producer known for films like Happy Death Day, Freaky, Disturbia, and most recently, Heart Eyes. Son of television legend Michael Landon, Chris has carved his own path in Hollywood, specializing in horror comedy or what he calls "feel-good horror." He candidly shares personal stories about his Hollywood upbringing, coming out, surviving kidney cancer, and the creative approaches that have defined his successful career.

Growing Up as Michael Landon's Son (05:04)

Landon discusses his childhood as the son of a famous father, his parents' divorce, and how his mother's sudden religious conversion impacted his youth.

Facing Personal Challenges (10:56)

Chris opens up about his father's untimely death from pancreatic cancer when Chris was just 16, and his own journey as a cancer survivor, sharing an important message about health vigilance.

Early Film Influences and Career Beginnings (12:07)

Landon talks about his early love for horror films, how watching his father's fulfillment at work influenced him, and his introduction to both horror and emotional films like Terms of Endearment.

From Writer to Director's Jail (24:41)

Chris details his path from writing Disturbia to joining the Paranormal Activity franchise after boldly speaking up in a meeting, his experience with residuals, and eventually facing "director's jail" after Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse.

Breaking through with Happy Death Day (38:38)

Landon shares the story of how he resurrected a shelved script called Half to Death that became Happy Death Day, a $5 million film that grossed around $150 million and revitalized his career.

Learning from Test Screenings (43:17)

Landon explains key insights gained from audience screenings, including respecting the audience's intelligence and never betraying the rules established in a film.

Upcoming Film: Drop (46:48)

Landon previews his new edge-of-your-seat thriller Drop (releasing April 11), calling it his "grown-up movie" and a modern-day Hitchcock thriller starring Meagan Fahy.

Throughout the conversation, Chris Landon demonstrates his resilience, creative vision, and commitment to authentic storytelling. From navigating Hollywood as the son of a legend to creating his own distinct voice in the horror genre, his journey offers insights into filmmaking, audience engagement, and personal growth.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. 

Host: Kevin Goetz

Guest: Chris Landon

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Chris Landon:

Wikipedia: https

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