In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun welcomes back Chris Cookson and Thomas Blakely from InkTip to discuss Twisted Vines, a murder mystery feature optioned directly from their platform by writer Tom Stolgren. Together they break down how the film went from script to production, the surprising tone of the finished project, standout performances, and what’s next for the budding franchise.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Twisted Vines went from an InkTip listing to a produced feature.
• Why the film feels like a blend of Knives Out and Hallmark mystery.
• The creative choices that worked—and the ones that could’ve gone further.
• Behind-the-scenes insight into the writing, rewrites, and final cut.
• Exciting news about a potential sequel in development.

Key Moments:

• 00:22 – Welcoming Chris Cookson & Thomas Blakely from InkTip.
• 00:56 – Breaking down the logline and cast of Twisted Vines.
• 02:13 – Comparing its style to Knives Out and Glass Onion.
• 07:05 – How much of Stolgren’s original script made it to screen.
• 17:22 – Sequel news and what it means for InkTip writers.

About the Guests:
Chris Cookson and Thomas Blakely work with InkTip, the trusted platform connecting screenwriters with vetted producers. Together, they’ve helped countless writers find opportunities that turn into real credits—including Twisted Vines.

About the Host:
With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Watch Twisted Vines on Roku Channel
• Learn more about InkTip

Connect with the Guests:

• InkTip Website

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Podcast Website
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod
• TikTok: @screenwriterpod

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#Screenwriting #IndieFilm #MurderMystery #InkTip #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

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