May 15, 2024

Greg Foster (Former CEO of IMAX Entertainment, Industry Consultant) on Transforming IMAX, Working with Hollywood Legends, and the Future of Cinema

48 minutes

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In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," Kevin Goetz sits down with Greg Foster, former CEO of IMAX Entertainment and current owner of the entertainment and media consulting firm, Foster + Crew. Foster grew up immersed in the world of Hollywood, with a father who was a successful film producer. This early exposure to the industry laid the foundation for Foster's career. From his childhood memories of rubbing elbows with Hollywood royalty, to his pivotal role in the evolution of IMAX, to his more recent experiences as a sought-after consultant, Foster shares insider stories along with a unique perspective on the business of moviemaking and the cinematic experience.

Growing up in Hollywood and a memorable encounter with Mel Brooks (3:09)
Foster discusses his upbringing in Beverly Hills and the influence of his father, David Foster, a successful film producer, on his career path. He recounts a memorable experience early in his career at MGM/UA, where he delivered test screening results to Mel Brooks for the movie Spaceballs.

Steve McQueen, Ali MacGraw, and Greg’s Father (16:12)
Foster shares a story about his father's involvement in the production of The Getaway, starring Steve McQueen and Ali MacGraw, and the confrontation that ensued when MacGraw's then-husband, Robert Evans, discovered the affair between the two stars.

Apollo 13 and the evolution of IMAX (22:22)
The pair discuss the transformation of IMAX to a premier movie experience. IMAX's 2002 re-release partnership with Apollo 13, originally produced in 1995 by Academy Award winner Brian Grazer and directed by Oscar winner Ron Howard, marked a turning point for the company. It was the first Hollywood movie to be digitally remastered using IMAX DMR technology, showcasing IMAX's ability to enhance the emotional experience of a film.

Christopher Nolan and Batman Begins (29:15)
Kevin and Greg talk about the critical role of Warner Bros. and Christopher Nolan in the growth of IMAX, particularly with the release of Batman Begins and The Dark Knight.

Consulting with Foster + Crew (38:47)
Greg shares insights into his consulting firm, Foster + Crew, and the various services he provides to his clients in the entertainment industry.

The future of cinema in the streaming era (44:11)
Kevin and Greg touch on the impact of streaming on the theatrical experience and the future of cinema, post COVID, Barbenheimer and the 2023 Hollywood strikes.

From his early days at MGM/UA to his pivotal role in transforming IMAX into a global cinematic powerhouse, Foster's stories offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of the film industry. Foster remains optimistic about the future of moviegoing, particularly with the impressive slate of films set for release in 2025. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. We look forward to bringing you more revelations from behind the scenes next time on Don't Kill the Messenger!

Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Greg Foster
Producer: K

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/
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- LinkedIn @Kevin Goetz
- Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com

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