Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Strategist Kevin Goetz

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In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," host Kevin Goetz sits down with Melva Benoit, founder and president of the Marian Dupree Group. A trailblazer in research and consumer insights, Benoit has held senior executive positions in major media companies including Viacom, Disney, Turner, NBC Universal, and Fox. Together, they delve into her rich background in television market research, discussing her unique insights and experiences in the entertainment industry.

Benoit's Early Career (06:01)
Growing up in Houston, Texas, Benoit developed a love for television and aspired to be in charge of Saturday morning cartoons. She attended Howard University and began her career in research at King World, eventually moving to Cartoon Network and Comedy Central.

The Role of Research in Television (09:55)
Benoit explains the three main functions of research within media institutions: keeping the lights on, taking requests, and anticipating stakeholders' needs. She emphasizes the importance of research teams contributing to meetings even when there isn't a direct need for research.

Analyzing Successful TV Shows – Seinfeld, Friends, and South Park (20:08)
Benoit discusses the testing and success of shows like Seinfeld (20:08), Friends (23:57), and South Park (40:26). She highlights the importance of understanding how audiences learn to watch and relate to characters in television shows.

The Changing Landscape of Media (27:47)
The pair discuss the importance of the audience and the challenges of targeted advertising and the need for a more nuanced approach to understanding audiences.

Reframing Audience Measurement (29:20)
Goetz and Benoit discuss a new way of looking at marketing to consumers, focusing on shared attitudes, behaviors, and values rather than solely relying on demographic information. They emphasize the importance of reaching diverse audiences and the need for the advertising industry to adapt to this new way of thinking.

Melva Benoit's insights into the world of television market research shed light on the complex relationship between content creators, audiences, and advertisers. By advocating for a more nuanced understanding of entertainment consumers and embracing the changing media landscape, Benoit and Goetz offer a unique vision for the future of the industry. This engaging conversation highlights the importance of adaptability, creativity, and audience-centric thinking in the changing media landscape. 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: Melva Benoit
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Melva Benoit:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvabenoit/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelvagBenoit
The Marian Dupree Group, Inc. https://linkedin.com/company/the-marian-dupree-group-llc/

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

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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Host and entertainment research expert Kevin Goetz sits down with the multi-talented Colleen Camp. With a career spanning 6 decades in acting and over 2 decades in producing, Colleen is a true force in the entertainment industry. She has graced the screen in over 150 roles, including memorable performances in films like Clue, Die Hard with a Vengeance, Wayne's World, Election, and American Hustle. As a producer, Colleen has helped bring over 25 titles to life, showcasing her passion and dedication to the craft of filmmaking.

Current Projects and Cinema Landscape (1:40)
Colleen discusses her recent producing projects, including the films At the Gates and Day of the Fight, and the challenges of distribution in the current landscape.

The Art of Character Development (16:21)
Kevin and Colleen explore the significance of rhythm and accents in defining characters, drawing upon examples from Colleen's diverse acting roles. They discuss how these elements contribute to the authenticity and depth of a performance, allowing actors to fully embody their characters and captivate audiences.

Lessons from Legendary Directors (11:28)
Colleen shares lessons learned from collaborating with renowned directors such as Peter Bogdanovich, Francis Ford Coppola, Jonathan Lynn, and David O. Russell. She reflects on the insights gained from working with these industry giants, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, trust, and creative synergy between actors and directors.

Navigating Nudity in Film (32:30)
The conversation touches on Colleen's experience portraying a Playboy bunny in the iconic film Apocalypse Now. She candidly discusses her thoughts on nudity in film, the challenges faced by actors in such roles, and the evolution of attitudes towards on-screen intimacy over the years.

Standout Films of the Awards Season (54:13)
Kevin and Colleen engage in a lively discussion about the standout films from the current awards season, with a particular focus on The Holdovers and Oppenheimer. 

Supporting Emerging Talent (59:41)
Colleen emphasizes the importance of supporting emerging filmmakers and the need for diverse, quality films to be distributed and celebrated. She stresses the significance of nurturing new voices in the industry and the role that established professionals can play in mentoring and advocating for up-and-coming talent.

Colleen Camp's passion for the entertainment industry shines through in this engaging conversation. Her ability to transform as an actress and her commitment to producing meaningful films make her a true treasure in the world of cinema. As an advocate for emerging talent and a believer in the power of the theatrical experience, Colleen continues to make a significant impact on the industry. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. 

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Colleen Camp
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Colleen Camp:
Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/colleen_camp
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colleen_Camp
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0131974/

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

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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Host and entertainment research expert Kevin Goetz sits down with talented screenwriter and director Nick Stoller. With a remarkable portfolio that includes hit comedy films like Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Get Him to the Greek, Neighbors, Bros, and the upcoming You’re Cordially Invited, Stoller provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at his creative process, his journey in the entertainment industry, and the invaluable role of audience research in shaping his critically acclaimed projects.

Nick Stoller's background and early influences (5:57)
Nick discusses his background and early influences, including growing up in Miami, attending boarding school in New Hampshire, and finding his passion for comedy writing at Harvard.

Pitching ideas to Judd Apatow and landing a job on "Undeclared" (11:33)
The pivotal moment when Judd Apatow hired Stoller for the show "Undeclared" based on his ability to pitch relatable college experiences that resonated with Apatow's comedic sensibilities.

The screening process for "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and lessons learned (15:19)
Stoller delves into the screening process for "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and the invaluable lessons he learned about audience preferences, particularly their aversion to overtly sad characters and their love for characters in denial.

Collaborating with actors like Jason Segel and Rose Byrne (24:03)
Stoller talks about working with talented actors like Jason Segel and Rose Byrne, and the unique comedic talents each brings to a project.

Advice on cutting scenes and prioritizing the story over individual jokes (29:30)
Kevin and Nick offer insightful advice on cutting scenes and prioritizing the overall story arc over individual jokes, even highly comedic ones, if they undermine character development or audience engagement.

The reshoots for "Get Him to the Greek" and the importance of point of view (33:38)
Nick talks about his love of reshoots, and how the audience feedback led him to change the beginning of Get Him to the Greek.

Preparing for the first day of shooting with Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon (41:24)
Stoller discusses his preparation process before the first day of shooting with stars like Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon, emphasizing the importance of rehearsals and collaborative exploration.

Throughout the engaging conversation, Nick Stoller's passion for storytelling, his respect for the audience, and his collaborative approach shine through. From his beginnings as a writer to his current success as a director, Stoller's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and a deep understanding of human emotions. 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: Nick Stoller
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Nick Stoller:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nicholasstoller
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas_Stoller
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0831557/

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

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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Kevin Goetz sits down with acclaimed filmmaker Eli Roth.

Eli burst onto the scene in 2002 with his indie horror hit Cabin Fever and cemented his reputation with the extremely profitable Hostel films. Known for his intense horror style and flair for marketing, Eli has built a hugely successful directing career. His latest film, the holiday slasher Thanksgiving, was released last year by Sony Pictures and he is currently working on a science fiction action comedy film, Borderlands, scheduled to be released this summer. Kevin and Eli have worked closely together using test screenings to hone Eli's movies. Their rapport is on full display as they delve deep into Eli's creative process, his career ups and downs, and the vital role testing feedback plays in the final films you see in theaters.

Kevin and Eli Discuss Eli's Upbringing and Early Interest in Filmmaking (3:20)
Eli became interested in film at a young age after seeing movies like Pinocchio, Star Wars, and Alien. He started making short films as a kid with help from a mentor. By age 11 he was making animated shorts, stop-motion films, and horror movies with his brothers and friends.

Cabin Fever and Eli's Initial Resistance to Testing (27:09)
Cabin Fever initially tested terribly but went on to be very profitable. Eli learned to analyze test data for what works rather than just looking at scores.

Eli's Experience Working His Way Up in the Film Industry (31:42)
Eli talks about his odd jobs in the film industry while writing scripts, including as an extra, a set production assistant, and Howard Stern's assistant on Private Parts.

Working with Quentin Tarantino and Making the Hostel Films (37:12)
Quentin Tarantino mentored Eli on Hostel, helping him add more realism and unexpected details. Eli discusses testing multiple endings for Hostel.

Thanksgiving Test Screenings and Editing (42:15)
Eli details his experience testing Thanksgiving and learning from audience feedback to hone the right tone, pacing, and violence level. He trimmed 15 minutes after the first test screening based on feedback. Eli says he has come to value test screening input thanks to insights from Kevin.

Eli on the Power of Test Screenings (54:19)
Eli thanks Kevin for helping filmmakers understand how to read test screening data and what audiences want. He advises filmmakers to listen to test feedback even if they don't agree.

This fascinating conversation gives rare insight into Eli Roth's unique directorial vision and his journey to becoming one of Hollywood's most successful horror filmmakers. Eli's passion for the genre and gift for understanding audiences have been instrumental in crafting crowd-pleasing terror. His embrace of the test screening process, utilizing Kevin's expert analysis, demonstrates Eli's dedication to giving viewers the best experience possible.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Eli Roth
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Kari Campano, and Nick Nunez

For more information about Eli Roth:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realeliroth/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eli_Roth
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0744834/

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

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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Join Kevin Goetz as he welcomes the host of Turner Classic Movies, Ben Mankiewicz. As a member of the illustrious Mankiewicz family, Ben provides a unique insider perspective, from delightful stories about his early life surrounded by Hollywood royalty to the privileges and expectations that come with having a famous name. He also shares colorful anecdotes about his father, who spurned the movie business in favor of making an impact through politics and public service. Throughout the episode, Ben brings his deep passion for film to life, offering thoughtful analysis and critiques on everything from beloved classics like Casablanca to defining what makes a movie truly great. His joy and encyclopedic knowledge when discussing cinema is infectious.

Ben's Family Legacy and Getting into Columbia (2:42)
Ben talks about his family's long history at Columbia and getting rejected initially despite his famous relatives.

Ben’s Father Spurning Hollywood for Public Service (8:08)
Ben recounts his father Frank Mankiewicz's remarkable transition from Hollywood entertainment lawyer to a member of the Peace Corps in Peru. He further elaborates on his father's notable career milestones, which encompassed serving as Robert F. Kennedy's press secretary and spearheading George McGovern's campaign.

Following His Own Path (9:15)
Ben compares his interests to his father's drive to make a difference rather than join the movie business.

Behind the Scenes of Turner Classic Movies (12:08)
Ben describes auditioning for TCM and having long discussions about movies, playing to his strengths. Ben says seeing The Barefoot Contessa on TCM right after his audition felt like a good omen he'd get the job because it was a Mankiewicz movie.

Ben's Takes on Classic Films (20:53)
Ben argues audiences over time, not just critics, determine what becomes a classic film based on emotional impact. Ben names Paths of Glory and Casablanca as his favorites for their emotional resonance.

On the Waterfront and the Problem with Kazan (33:47)
Ben expresses admiration for On the Waterfront, acknowledging its brilliance and emotional depth, particularly praising Eva Marie Saint's performance. However, he expresses disdain for Elia Kazan's decision to name names during the McCarthy era.

Mank and the Family Name (41:36)
Ben talks about being a Mankiewicz, and describes being incredibly moved by the 2020 biographical drama film Mank directed by David Fincher capturing Ben's grandfather Herman's spirit.

Whether you're a longtime TCM fan or simply love hearing little-known details about Hollywood history straight from the source, this podcast is a must-listen. 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: Ben Mankiewicz
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Ben Mankiewicz:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_Mankiewicz
Twitter: https://twitter.com/benmank77?lang=en
The Plot Thickens Podcast: https://theplotthickens.tcm.com/

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:

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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Kevin Goetz is joined by veteran Hollywood producer Hawk Koch.

With over 50 years in the movie business, Koch has countless stories to share from his prolific career working on classic films like Chinatown, Marathon Man, Heaven Can Wait, and Wayne's World. He offers a rare insider's perspective on working with icons like Clark Gable, Ingrid Bergman, Jimmy Stewart, Jackie Gleason, and Barbra Streisand. Koch also provides wisdom on key lessons he's learned about the importance of telling the truth, taking care of people in the industry, and establishing your own identity.

What’s in a Name? (6:49)
Koch talks about changing his name at age 50 when he was bar mitzvahed, taking on the nickname "Hawk" to establish his own identity apart from his famous father, producer Howard W. Koch.

Riding Horses with Clark Gable (17:28)
Koch reminisces about getting his first horseback ride from Clark Gable as a young boy on a movie set. He describes feeling Gable's warmth and humanity in that brief interaction.

Working with Legends (20:25)
Koch shares his experience working with and being intimidated by classic actors like Jimmy Stewart and Ingrid Bergman early in his career.

Icon Lightning Round (24:01)
Kevin asks Hawk to give his quick impressions of industry figures he's worked with like Roman Polanski, Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway, and Barbara Streisand.

Getting His Start in Music (28:11)
Hawk discusses how he got his start working in music, touring with The Dave Clark Five and getting to watch recording sessions with Frank Sinatra.

Taking Care of “Family” (33:43)
Koch talks about his dedication to the Motion Picture and Television Fund, taking care of people in the entertainment industry. He shares why it is important to him.

Taming Faye Dunaway’s Hair (35:33)
Koch tells a funny story about shooting Chinatown and director Roman Polanski pulling Faye Dunaway's hair out when it kept sticking up in a shot.

Best Advice Ever Received (38:05)
Koch stresses the importance of telling the truth in the movie business and not trying to mislead people.

Tune in as Hawk Koch shares stories that capture the golden era of Hollywood history through his interactions with legends on set and off. But beyond the celebrity anecdotes, his emphasis on truth, care for others, and finding one's path contain valuable lessons for those both inside and outside the entertainment world. 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: Hawk Koch
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Hawk Koch:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawk_Koch
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0462242/
Magic Time: https://magictime.pictures/

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

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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Kevin is joined by the President of TriStar Pictures, Nicole Brown

Join host Kevin Goetz as he engages Nicole Brown in a conversation about her career evolution from child actor to President of TriStar Pictures. Tracing her early acting jobs to producing and executive roles, Brown imparts thoughtful wisdom on creative collaboration, test screenings, and keeping audiences engaged. She shares insights on balancing bold artistic visions with commercial success, studio involvement, and the importance of innovation. From her experiences shepherding original films like The Woman King, Baby Driver, and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Brown offers revelations on what goes into crafting compelling films. She also has advice for emerging talent looking to push the industry forward.

Early Life and Career (4:23)
Brown describes getting bitten by the acting bug as a child growing up in Culver City, California. She began booking commercials and roles in shows she watched on TV. She reflects on how quickly acting went from an extracurricular activity to a central part of her young life.

Transition to Producing (6:05)
When Brown attended Columbia University, she began realizing that she derived more joy from facilitating creative projects behind the scenes than being on camera.

Internship with Marc Platt (11:08)
After college, Brown landed a career-changing summer internship with powerhouse producer Marc Platt. She sat in on his meetings at a major studio and soaked up his openness to ideas.

Insights on Studio-Filmmaker Collaboration (19:24)
Brown stresses that every film requires a different type of creative dance between the studio and the director. She notes that the studio's level of involvement often depends on the director's proven track record and the film's genre.

The Origin Story of The Woman King (25:16)
Brown traces how the idea for The Woman King originated when Viola Davis approached her eager to play a fierce African general leading an elite female army.

Elements of Successful Theatrical Films in a Changing Landscape (31:19)
Brown believes today's films require a sense of spectacle, urgency, and relevance that makes audiences eager to experience them immediately on the big screen.

The Power of Test Screenings (36:28)
Brown values seeing real audiences experience a film during test screenings. Beyond just the questionnaire data, she learns a great deal from the crowd's audible reactions and body language.

Advice to Emerging Talent (40:21)
Brown urges the next generation to fully immerse themselves in cinematic history and all forms of storytelling. But she also challenges them to then throw out the rulebook and bring completely new, bold ideas to revolutionize filmmaking.

Tune in as host Kevin Goetz and Nicole Brown unpack valuable filmmaking lessons.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Nicole Brown
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Nicole Brown:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicole_Brown_(film_executive)
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0114352/
Sony Pictures: https://www.sonypictures.com/

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<

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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Kevin is joined by producer and former head of Paramount Pictures, Marc Evans

Marc Evans is a highly respected studio executive with over 25 years of experience in the film industry. Evans worked his way up in Hollywood, becoming President of the Motion Picture Group at Paramount Pictures. In this role, Evans oversaw the creative development and production of major blockbuster films like Mission: Impossible, Transformers, and Star Trek franchises. He has worked closely with top directors including J.J. Abrams, Michael Bay, David Fincher, and Martin Scorsese. Evans provides unique insights into greenlighting films and shares some behind-the-scenes stories of mistakes and triumphs during his studio tenure. After leaving Paramount, Evans founded his own production company Marc Evans Productions which has already scored hits with Netflix's The Mother starring Jennifer Lopez, and action movie The Old Guard.

The value of chaos (3:08)
Kevin and Marc recall what could have been a disastrous experience of his audience being canceled for a test screening of a major studio film.

Early days at Paramount Pictures (5:43)
Marc talks about his early days at Paramount working as an assistant for producer Julia Chasman and executive Nick Wexler, and working with legendary producer Laura Ziskin on the first Spider-Man films.

Giving blockbusters heart (12:52)
Marc shares what screenwriter Alvin Sargent told him about "the pleasure of making something big good" in regards to blockbuster franchise films.

Reshooting World War Z (22:59)
Marc and Kevin discuss what went wrong with the original cut of World War Z and why they had to redo 40 minutes of the film, and how the resulting film resonated better with audiences.

Baywatch and Monster Trucks (25:25)
Marc shares why the Baywatch movie failed to connect with audiences. The pair then discuss how Monster Trucks might have worked better as a smaller family film rather than pushing it as a major tentpole release.

Marc Evans Productions (31:54)
Marc discusses his recent production successes including The Mother starring Jennifer Lopez, The Old Guard starring Charlize Theron, and Instant Family starring Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne. He shares that the common theme in these movies is a strong emotional core.

Marc Evans has worked on some of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters of the last 20 years. His candid perspectives on succeeding - and occasionally stumbling - reveal thoughtful lessons for creating films that truly resonate with audiences. Evans believes in always staying connected to the emotional core in every project. 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: Marc Evans
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Marc Evans:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marc-evans-productions/about/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0263010/

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

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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Kevin is joined by prolific comedy director, writer, and producer, Steve Carr

Go behind the laughs with comedy director Steve Carr as he joins host Kevin Goetz for a lively and enlightening conversation. With hit movies like Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Daddy Day Care, and Dr. Dolittle 2 under his belt, Steve has mastered the art of crafting crowd-pleasing and enduring comedies. In this episode, you'll gain insight into Steve's journey from directing hip-hop videos in the 90s to directing comedic blockbusters. Steve also offers thoughtful perspectives on the state of comedy films today.

Movies as comfort food (3:57)
Steve shares a story about John Travolta, and Kevin and Steve discuss how movies like Paul Blart, Mall Cop can be like “chicken soup for the soul.”

Nerves and laughs for Next Friday (09:42)
Steve recounts the magical experience of hearing audiences roar with laughter at his first feature film comedy Next Friday.

The state of comedy (19:46)
Steve and Kevin give their opinions on why big-screen comedies are struggling lately.

A change in focus (21:57)
Steve shares how he's pivoting to writing more original scripts and producing in light of changes in the comedy landscape.

Producing vs. directing (24:08)
Steve details his experience independently producing a gritty, low-budget film and the lessons learned.

Comedic influences (26:16)
Steve lists his biggest comedic influences growing up, including Mel Brooks, The Odd Couple, and "Police Squad."

Tune in for a fascinating conversation as Steve Carr shares tales from decades in Hollywood that reveal both the exhilaration of making people laugh and the challenges facing the genre today. Through it all, Steve retains his authentic humor and commitment to quality comedy with heart. 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: Steve Carr
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Steve Carr:
Web: https://www.stevecarrdirector.com/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Carr
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0139867/

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

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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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