Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Strategist Kevin Goetz

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Kevin is joined by director, writer, and producer Will Gluck to discuss crafting comedy on screen and the intricacies of the testing process.

Will Gluck has had an impressive career directing hit comedies like Easy A, Friends with Benefits, the Annie remake, and the Peter Rabbit films. He's also been behind popular TV shows such as The Michael J. Fox Show. In this candid, and often hilarious conversation, Will discusses his journey from TV writer to film director, his process on set, experiences testing movies with audiences, and thoughts on the state of romantic comedies in theaters. Will brings a valuable perspective as an audience-focused director who constantly shapes his films based on feedback. So, whether you're a film buff or just love a good laugh, this conversation with Golden Globe-nominated Will Gluck is a must-listen!

Thoughts on Comedy, Improvising, and Reworking Scenes (3:25)
Will talks about why he gravitated to comedy, his thoughts on improvising, and why he loves to rework scenes.

Catching a Break in Hollywood (8:39)
Will shares a hilarious story of how being a terrible driver for the head of a production company led to him getting his first writing job.

Transitioning to Feature Films and Involving Family in Films Like Easy A, Annie, and Peter Rabbit (16:46)
Kevin and Will discuss Gluck's filmography including Easy A, Friends with Benefits, Annie, and the Peter Rabbit films. Will explains why he chose to make the movies he did, and the important role his family played in those decisions.

Gluck's upcoming movie Anyone But You starring Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney (25:14)
The pair discuss why chemistry between leads is crucial for romantic comedies, and Will talks about casting his new film, Anyone but You.

Working with Tom Rothman and Sony (27:09)
Gluck discusses his long history working with Sony Pictures and executive Tom Rothman.

Film Focus Group Feedback and Evaluation (35:00)
Gluck asks Kevin about screen testing and evaluating audiences. Kevin discusses his commitment to neutral, unbiased test screening reports, and they talk about how even great films get some bad feedback.

Tune in for a fascinating insider's look at the world of test screenings, and Will's experiences in both film and TV. Make sure to check out Will’s upcoming romantic comedy Anyone But You, starring Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney. It offers a glimmer of hope for the struggling genre. Thanks as always to you, our listeners, for joining us on this journey exploring audience research and testing 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: Will Gluck
Producer:  Kari Campano
Writers:  Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Will Gluck:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willgluckwhat/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0323239/bio/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will_Gluck

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 Academy Award-nominated producer and President of Mattel Films, Robbie Brenner who helped reinvent Barbie and create a contemporary movie classic.

Robbie produced the record-breaking blockbuster movie Barbie and has had an illustrious career making acclaimed films including Dallas Buyers Club, for which she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture and that went on to win three Academy Awards. We'll hear Robbie's insider stories of how Barbie went from an idea that seemed destined to fail to the biggest comedy hit in years. She also shares her war stories guiding Barbie through development and testing, while creating the bold creative vision needed to reinvent an iconic brand by bringing on director Greta Gerwig at the suggestion of Margot Robbie. Robbie Brenner also shares her vision for Mattel Films and insight into her upcoming projects.

Getting Barbie Off the Ground (8:00)
Robbie shares the early development process for Barbie, and why Kevin initially thought it would fail.

The High Heel and the Birkenstock (12:16)
How Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach got attached to the project and shifted the tone.

Behind-the-scenes stories from test screenings of Barbie (18:18)
Kevin and Robbie share stories from the early screenings of Barbie, and the changes that were made to the film.

Convincing Mattel (25:44)
Robbie explains how she had to convince the Barbie brand team to "get comfortable with being uncomfortable" during the filmmaking process.

Polly Pocket, Hot Wheels, and Barney (35:46)
Robbie discusses the future slate of films based on Mattel brands, including Hot Wheels, Barney, and more. She shares the big Hollywood names attached to the projects; people like J.J. Abrams, Lena Dunham, and Daniel Kaluuya.

The Cultural Significance of Barbie (38:33)
Robbie explains how Barbie substantively unpacks cultural issues, beyond just being commercially appealing.

Taking Risks (42:25)
Robbie talks about having conviction as a filmmaker to take bold risks, even if you "fail miserably.”

Tune in for an entertaining glimpse behind the scenes of a contemporary classic in the making. Robbie brings an infectious energy as she shares anecdotes that capture the importance of conviction and the power of meaningful storytelling in producing great films. Robbie has an innate sense for compelling stories, a passion for telling them authentically, and the talent relationships and tenacity to get films made. Her insights into utilizing audience research to craft satisfying endings, grabbing viewer attention early, and leaning into a filmmaker's unique voice reveal why she's been behind so many memorable movies.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Robbie Brenner
Producer:  Kari Campano
Writers:  Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

For more information about Robbie Brenner:
Mattel Films: https://corporate.mattel.com/robbie-brenner
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0107509/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Brenner

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 acclaimed producing team Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who give rare insights into their creative process and share lessons learned from decades of successful filmmaking.

In this episode, Kevin Goetz sits down with two of the most prolific, decorated, and respected producers in the business - Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal. As partners at Escape Artists, Jason and Todd have produced an incredible array of award-winning films spanning over 20 years. From critical and commercial hits like The Pursuit of Happyness, The Equalizer franchise, Seven Pounds, and Being the Ricardos, they have cultivated a reputation for making character-driven films with soul and meaning.

Jason Blumenthal’s Superpower [05:05]
Jason believes his superpower is being able to "create something from nothing" when developing film ideas.

Landing Denzel Washington for The Equalizer franchise [10:59]
After years of relationship building, Todd and Jason landed Denzel for The Equalizer by paying for the rights themselves and developing the script extensively before showing him.

The importance of character-driven movies [24:30]
Todd emphasizes having likable characters that audiences connect with as the key ingredient for successful films.

Nerves before every test screening [28:38]
Both Todd and Jason discuss their intense anxiety and physical symptoms before every test screening. Despite the nerves, the trio discuss how important the test screening process has been for the success of their films.

Memorable test screening moments that shaped their films [31:56]
To illustrate how important it is to listen to the audience, the producing pair discusses how cutting a love story from Equalizer 3 significantly improved test scores.

Will Smith's insight on why endings matter most to audiences [43:13]
After a test screening of The Pursuit of Happyness, Will Smith surprised the audience and gave Jason a valuable piece of advice about the importance of a good ending.

Tune in to hear Jason Blumenthal and Todd Black offer invaluable insights into producing in this wide-ranging conversation with host Kevin Goetz. The pair explain their creative ethos, share how test screenings have shaped their films, and recall sage advice received over their decades-long careers. Their passion for the test screening process illustrates a deep commitment to the audience above all else. With candor and humor, Jason and Todd impart hard-won lessons about the importance of likable characters, owning mistakes, and maintaining integrity in Hollywood. Their openness provides a rare look inside the art and craft of great producing.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guests: Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal
Producer:  Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, & Kari Campano

For more information about Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal:
Escape Artists: https://escapeartists.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapeartistsentertainment/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Escape_Artists

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 acclaimed filmmaker, Antoine Fuqua.

Antoine Fuqua, director and producer, is known for his work on the films Training Day, The Magnificent Seven, and The Equalizer.

Kevin Goetz sits down with renowned Hollywood director Antoine Fuqua. They discuss Fuqua's extraordinary path from the tough streets of Pittsburgh to directing blockbusters and working with some of the greatest actors of our time. Fuqua opens up about his encounter with gun violence at age 15, which shaped his artistic style and pursuit of cinematic realism. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with Denzel Washington in Training Day, the value he gleans from test screenings, and his upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. Fuqua also provides insight into his intense focus on actors, self-criticism, and mission to keep evolving as a director who can capture the human condition under pressure.

Childhood Shooting (2:26)
Fuqua recalls being randomly shot at age 15 while running an errand in Pittsburgh. The traumatic event gave him a visceral sense of violence and mortality. He remembers the shooting like a vivid movie scene engraved in his mind.

Acting Process (11:34)
Fuqua explains his deep reverence for actors. Fuqua believes in giving actors space to use their own creative process and not interfering in their "magic."

“In the Moment Filmmaking” with Denzel Washington (14:18)
Fuqua shares a story from Training Day when he was so absorbed watching Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke improvise in character that he forgot to call "cut." He stresses filmmakers must sometimes "get out of their own way" and just feel unscripted moments unfold.

Test Screenings (16:48)
The pair discuss test screenings, and Fuqua shares that even though he is tortured by the test screening process, he considers it a blessing. Fuqua discusses his love for the audience and how the feedback exposes blind spots and forces him to see the film through their eyes.

Michael Jackson Biopic (21:56)
Fuqua reveals details on his upcoming Michael Jackson biography produced by Graham King. He was drawn to the project by Jackson's global impact and complicated life. Fuqua aims to look beyond tabloid headlines to capture the man underneath.

Men Under Pressure (27:24)
Fuqua discusses men under pressure, a major theme in his filmmaking, and how he is drawn to telling stories about people making tough choices that test their morals and define their character.

Tune in for a fascinating discussion that provides rare insight into the mindset of visionary director Antoine Fuqua. From his rough upbringing to directing actors like Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Will Smith, and Jake Gyllenhaal, he explains how his background shaped his directorial style and gift for portraying the human condition.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Antoine Fuqua
Producer:  Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, & Kari Campano

For more information about Antoine Fuqua:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antoinefuqua/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0298807/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antoine_Fuqua

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 Oscar and Emmy Nominated Director and Producer, Evgeny Afineevsky.

Evgeny Afineevsky, Oscar-Nominated Documentary Filmmaker

Kevin Goetz is joined by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Evgeny Afineevsky. The pair discuss Afineevsky’s unlikely journey from childhood in the Soviet Union and Israel to becoming an Oscar-nominated director. Afineevsky shares behind-the-scenes stories about making powerful documentaries like Cries from Syria, Winter on Fire, which turned the world’s attention to the rising conflict in Ukraine, and Francesco, which offered him rare access to Pope Francis. He also provides insight into his filmmaking philosophy and drive to create documentaries that educate, inspire action, and work as tools for positive change in the world.

From the former Soviet Union to Israel and an early mentor in Menahem Golan (01:41)
Starting from his childhood fascination with filmmaking in the Soviet Union, Evgeny describes seeing rare foreign movies in Russia during the 1980s, like Gone with the Wind, that offered a glimpse outside the USSR. After moving to Israel, Afineevsky recounts meeting Menahem Golan and coming to Hollywood in the 1990s.

Oscar nomination for Winter on Fire and meeting Volodymyr Zelenskyy (15:35)
The pair discuss Evgeny’s transition to highly impactful documentaries like the Oscar-nominated Winter on Fire and how Afineevsky first met Volodymyr Zelenskyy in 2016, years before he became the president of Ukraine.

Documentaries and PTSD (23:02)
Afineevsky describes the risks he took to make his documentaries, and how the effects of making these films in war zones caused him to develop PTSD.

A close relationship with Pope Francis (23:41)
Afineevsky shares how he developed a close bond with Pope Francis and how he gained unprecedented access to him for the documentary Francesco. Afineevsky describes Francis becoming godfather to his son and their personal friendship.

Making movies that matter (34:58)
The pair discuss parenthood and how having a child motivated Afineevsky to make movies that can change the world.

Upcoming projects (40:52)
Afineevsky talks about his most recent documentary about Ukraine’s fight for freedom, Freedom on Fire. He also mentions potential upcoming projects, including one about Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.

Tune in to hear this compelling interview with acclaimed documentary director Evgeny Afineevsky, which provides an intimate glimpse into his inspiring life journey, from gaining unprecedented access to Pope Francis for Francesco to making Oscar-nominated films like Winter on Fire. Afineevsky offers wisdom on documentary filmmaking and shares his vision for how movies can raise awareness of global issues to drive positive change in the world.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Evgeny Afineevsky
Producer:  Kari Campano
Writers:  Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman and Kari Campano

For more information about Evgeny Afineevsky:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evgeny_Afineevsky
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1017958/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/evgeny_director

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 Hollywood journalist and studio executive, Peter Bart.

Peter Bart, Journalist and Hollywood Executive

Over an influential career spanning over 50 years, Peter Bart has played a key role in shaping modern Hollywood. He began as a journalist at The New York Times before becoming a studio executive at Paramount in the late 1960s and 70s, overseeing movies like The Godfather, Rosemary’s Baby, and Chinatown. He later served as Editor-in-Chief of Variety for nearly 30 years. Today, Bart continues to be a prominent voice through his writing for Deadline. With his vast experience and perspective, Bart remains a living legend in the world of movies.

Early career in journalism (05:16)
Peter shares how he got his start in journalism by asking outrageous questions. The New York Times sent Bart to Hollywood to cover the rise of TV, but he was drawn to the fascinating economics of the movie business.

Getting Into the Movie Business (08:15)
Bart became friends with Bob Evans, who brought him to Paramount as head of production despite no film experience. They reinvented the studio by making artistic, character-driven films based on novels vs big-budget spectacles.

Reinventing Hollywood (13:09)
Bart bought rights to novels and quality scripts like The Godfather. He shares how he wanted to make it an art film, but its popularity pushed the studio to make it more commercial. Bart shares how he and Evans often made movies without studio oversight in order to take creative risks on movies like Rosemary’s Baby, Paper Moon, and Harold and Maude.

Drama with Frank Sinatra (22:43)
Peter shares a behind-the-scenes story from Rosemary’s Baby. Director Roman Polanski’s demanding style angered Frank Sinatra, husband of the film's star Mia Farrow.

Returning to Journalism with Variety (27:01)
Bart shares that after 18 years making films, he wanted to tell the story of Hollywood’s shifts - filmmaker power transitioning to dealmakers/businessmen running studios.

The Future of Theatrical Films (43:09)
Kevin and Peter discuss the value of the theatrical experience. As the way people watch movies is changing, Bart believes audience energy hugely enhances films. He shares how the new generation is losing out by only streaming at home.

Tune in to hear Peter Bart share invaluable insights from his legendary career spanning studio executive leadership and entertainment. He provides a unique window into the reinvention of Hollywood in the 1960s and 70s, greenlighting seminal films like The Godfather. Peter makes an impassioned case for retaining the irreplaceable theatrical experience. With unmatched experience across epochs of the film industry, Peter's perspectives are a must-listen for any cinema fan.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guests: Peter Bart
Producer:  Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Kari Campano

For more information about Peter Bart:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Bart
Deadline: https://deadline.com/author/peter-bart/
Variety: https://variety.com/author/peter-bart/

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

Send Kevin a Text Message

Kevin is joined by David Madden, Emmy-winning producer and studio executive.

David Madden, Producer

Kevin Goetz is joined by acclaimed entertainment executive David Madden. David has had a fantastic career spanning over four decades in the film, television, and streaming industry. He's been on the front lines developing and overseeing some of the most acclaimed shows of our time. He has successfully produced movies like Runaway Bride, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, and Save the Last Dance. As president of Fox Broadcasting and AMC Studios, David helped shepherd iconic series, including The Shield, The Walking Dead, Better Call Saul, and The Americans. Currently, David is head of global entertainment for Wattpad WEBTOON Studios, an innovative division of Wattpad WEBTOON built around discovering undiscovered writers and creators on its online storytelling platforms, then turning their work into movies, shows, and animated projects.

Early Career at Fox (06:55)
David talks about getting his start in the early 1980s as a script reader at Fox after months of unsuccessfully trying to get a job there. He learned the importance of giving constructive feedback on scripts rather than being snarky and dismissive.

Rising Through the Ranks (13:53)
Working his way up at Fox, David discusses collaborating with producer Robert Cort on films like Romancing the Stone. He gained insights into developing scripts and making movies more marketable. David shares his experience moving to Paramount as an executive in the mid-1980s, overseeing major box office hits like Fatal Attraction and The Untouchables.

The Sopranos and Embracing Prestige Television (18:04)
David explains having an "aha moment" watching The Sopranos, realizing television could offer the same depth and sophistication as feature films. This led him to pivot his career to focus on premium cable series.

Hits Across Cable Networks (19:50)
As an executive, David helped develop acclaimed and award-winning shows, including The Shield at FX, The Americans, The Walking Dead, and Better Call Saul.

Running Programming (21:57)
David discusses serving as President of Programming at both Fox Broadcasting and AMC Networks. At Fox, he oversaw the meteoric success of Empire.

Wattpad WEBTOON Studios (27:32)
David details his current role leading content for Wattpad WEBTOON Studios, which discovers creators on its online storytelling platforms and turns their IP into entertainment properties. David explains how Wattpad operates, with over 90 million users worldwide uploading hundreds of millions of stories.

Tune in to hear David take us on a fascinating journey from his beginnings as a script reader to overseeing some of the most acclaimed shows on television. Join Kevin and David for insightful perspectives on the major shifts happening in the business, from the disappearance of mid-budget films to the explosion of streaming. His current pioneering role at Wattpad WEBTOON Studios shows how data and technology can empower new voices and transform how content is created. David’s passion for storytelling and nurturing talent shine through in everything he does, and his career is a masterclass in adapting to industry change.

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

Kevin is joined by John Davis, prolific producer and founder of Davis Entertainment.

John Davis, Producer, Entrepreneur, and Founder of Davis Entertainment

Kevin Goetz is joined by John Davis, a renowned producer and the founder of Davis Entertainment. This powerhouse production company has left an indelible mark on the film and television industry. With an impressive list of credits to his name, Davis has consistently delivered captivating projects that have resonated with audiences worldwide. From high-octane action blockbusters like Predator, I, Robot, and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. to heartwarming family favorites like Dr. Dolittle and Garfield, Davis has demonstrated an exceptional range and an eye for engaging storytelling. In addition to his success in film, Davis has made significant contributions to television as an executive producer on critically acclaimed series such as The Blacklist and The Player. With Davis Entertainment as his platform, he continues to push boundaries, captivate audiences, and shape the future of storytelling in film and television.

Entrepreneurship and John’s Secret Sauce (03:10)
John discusses his love for entrepreneurship and how he sees producing movies as similar to starting a new company. John credits his success to having mass taste and understanding what audiences want to see.

Giving Back (15:30)
John and Kevin discuss the importance of giving back and how John and his wife have been passionate about providing scholarships and supporting educational institutions.

Grumpy Old Men (21:28)
John shares the determined process of getting this hit film made, including committing to produce another movie just to get Walter Matthau on board.

Audience Reactions and Test Screenings (28:14)
John and Kevin discuss the role of audience reactions in shaping a movie's success and share stories of screening experiences that made a significant impact, including how testing Jungle Cruise changed the movie.

Waterworld: A Challenged Production (42:01)
John discusses his involvement in the film Waterworld, addresses the controversy and difficulties it faced, and how he turned it into a positive.

Personal Favorites (46:42)
John reveals three movies that hold a special place in his heart and encapsulate his journey as a producer. He talks about the impact and significance of Dolomite, Predator, and Grumpy Old Men on his career and personal growth.

Tune in for a candid conversation with renowned producer and entrepreneur John Davis as he shares captivating stories and valuable insights from his prolific career. Join us as we explore the art of negotiation, the power of perseverance, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: John Davis
Producer:  Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Kari Campano

For more information about John Davis:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Davis_(producer)
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0204862/
Davis Entertainment: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Davis_Entertainment

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

Send Kevin a Text Message

Kevin is joined by Academy Award-winning producer and activist, Cathy Schulman.

Cathy Schulman, Producer

Cathy Schulman is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry, using her platform to advocate for gender equality and empowering women. In this episode, Schulman opens up about her journey, sharing how her own experiences of sexism, harassment, and bullying ignited a deep passion for change. Cathy is committed to producing content that appeals to diverse audiences, particularly women and girls. The pair also discuss Cathy's Academy Award win for the film Crash and her experiences working on projects such as The Illusionist, Bad Moms, The Woman King, and Showtime’s The First Lady.

A commitment to Diversity and Representation (03:17)
Cathy Schulman discusses her advocacy for women in the entertainment industry, which stems from her personal experiences with sexism and harassment. Cathy shares what motivated her to become involved in organizations like Women in Film and ultimately establish her organization, ReFrame.

Crash and the Academy Awards (08:50)
Cathy shares what it was like to hear the name of her movie read at the Academy Awards. She talks about her prepared speech for the Oscars, which accidentally ended up being genocide statistics instead. Despite the unexpected turn, she spoke from the heart and thanked her husband and inspirations.

Inspirations (12:39)
Kevin asks Cathy about her primary inspiration in the film industry and Cathy talks about Barbara Boyle, the first woman to run a Hollywood studio and one of the founders of Women in Film.

Audience Research and The Woman King (19:26)
Cathy and Kevin discuss the audience testing process, and how it improved The Woman King. Cathy shares her view that pace, length, and clarity are the keys to the audience research process.

Testing her upcoming project, The Idea of You (34:52)
Cathy talks about her upcoming project, The Idea of You, starring Anne Hathaway. She shares some of the testing insights on the project.

Representation and Women in Film (44:46)
Cathy discusses the organization Women in Film, and the research that she has done to advance representation in the film industry. She focuses on the economics of representation and catering to a diverse audience.

Tune in to hear Cathy and Kevin discuss the importance of listening to the audience, the challenges of filmmaking, Cathy's involvement with Women in Film, and her project, ReFrame, aimed at creating systemic change in the industry. Through her advocacy, she has emerged as a true champion for gender equality, inspiring others to challenge the status quo and rewrite the narrative, creating a future where every woman's voice is heard and valued.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Cathy Schulman
Producer:  Kari Campano

For more information about Cathy Schulman:
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0776072/
Women in Film: https://www.instagram.com/womeninfilmla/
Welle Entertainment: https://www.welleent.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 Will Packer, acclaimed filmmaker and founder of Will Packer Productions.

Will Packer, Producer

Kevin Goetz is joined by industry trailblazer, Will Packer. A film and two-time Emmy-nominated producer, Packer is a mastermind when it comes to captivating audiences with stories that resonate across cultural boundaries. From his early days as a student filmmaker at Florida A&M University to the powerhouse behind hits like Think Like a Man, Girls Trip, and Straight Outta Compton, Will Packer has devoted his career to making movies that resonate with the audience. With an unyielding dedication to diversity and inclusivity, he has opened doors for underrepresented voices in the industry.

Beverly Hills Cop and Packer’s early influences (07:15)
Packer fondly recalls the impact of watching movies as a child and how they served as an escape and source of inspiration. He cites Beverly Hills Cop as a significant movie that made him realize the power of representation and humor, featuring a charismatic black lead who became a hero on screen.

From an engineer to a DIY filmmaker (08:11)
Will explains that his analytical mindset, combined with his creative inclinations, gives him a unique perspective. Packer shares the story of his persistence in securing a screening for his first film,Chocolate City, where the film garnered an enthusiastic response from the audience. The movie resonated with viewers portraying a world they could relate to.

Creating inclusive movies with universal themes (11:21)
Packer discusses how movies in the past were often exclusive, designed for specific audiences, but his aim is to create inclusive films with universal themes, featuring black characters but accessible to all.

Diversity leads to success (28:57)
Will and Kevin emphasize the value of diversity in the business world, stating that having more voices in the room leads to increased success. The pair agree that a creative industry thrives when there is a variety of perspectives and experiences represented.

Creating content that people love (34:40)
Kevin and Will discuss the importance of creating movies and media that people "love", not just "like". In this oversaturated media market, he focuses on creating movies that people are passionate about and will rush to tell their friends about.

Producing the Oscars and the “slap heard ‘round the world” (37:42)
Will talks about his experience producing the 2022 Academy Awards, a production that earned him an Emmy nomination. Will goes into the challenges of producing the Oscars, and how Chris Rock saved the show.

Tune in to hear Will Packer's journey in the industry, starting from his early influences and his passion for storytelling, to his contributions to the entertainment industry and his commitment to championing underrepresented voices.

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guests: Will Packer
Producer:  Kari Campano

For more information about Will Packer:
Website: https://www.willpacker.com/home
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willpackerproductions/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/willpowerpacker

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