Script Summit 2025 is officially open for submissions! If you're looking for industry exposure, this is your chance to get your script read by Hollywood producers and directors. In this episode, we welcome Script Summit winner Lyndal Simpson, whose screenplay Gravedigger won a table read at Script Summit 2022. She shares her journey from winning the table read to signing an option deal and moving into production. Lyndal discusses the challenges of script rewrites, working within a budget, and embracing feedback from producers. If you're an aspiring screenwriter, this episode is packed with invaluable insights!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How a Script Summit win helped Gravedigger gain industry attention.
• The impact of table reads on script development.
• How Coverfly’s red list boosted Lyndal’s script visibility.
• The process of signing a shopping agreement and landing an option.
• Overcoming script rewrites and working within budget constraints.
• The importance of emotional impact and atmosphere in screenwriting.
• Advice for screenwriters submitting to contests and working in the industry.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Script Summit 2025 is now open for submissions.
• [01:34] How Gravedigger made Coverfly’s red list and attracted an agent.
• [02:16] Landing a shopping agreement and signing an option.
• [05:26] Handling feedback and adapting to budget constraints.
• [07:56] Managing the overwhelm of rewrites with small victories.
• [14:32] The role of emotion and atmosphere in making a script stand out.

About the Guest:
Lyndal Simpson is a screenwriter whose thriller Gravedigger won a table read at Script Summit 2022. The project has since gained industry traction, landing a shopping agreement, an option deal, and now heading toward production. Based in Australia, Lyndal has multiple projects in development and is passionate about crafting atmospheric, emotionally driven stories.

About the Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey is dedicated to helping screenwriters achieve their dreams.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Script Summit Submissions – Enter Now!
• Coverfly’s Red List

Connect with the Guest:

• IMDb: Lyndal Simpson
• On Coverfly

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• The Successful Screenwriter Podcast
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod
• TikTok: @screenwriterpod
• Website: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com

Enjoy this episode? Don’t forget to like, share, and review! Subscribe for more screenwriting insights and industry interviews.

#Screenwriting #ScriptSummit #WritingCommunity #Filmmaking #Screenwriter #Screenplay #IndieFilm

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with filmmaker Fritz Frauendorf to discuss the challenges of breaking into the film industry through short films. Fritz shares his journey from film school to directing Manic Man, a short film that went viral, garnering over a million views. He reveals the marketing strategies that worked, the lessons he’s learned about storytelling, and how he’s leveraging his success to build a feature film. If you're a filmmaker trying to make your mark, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Fritz transitioned from film school to directing short films
• The importance of visual storytelling in short-form content
• The marketing strategies that helped Manic Man go viral
• The role of local film premieres in networking and career growth
• How short films can serve as proof of concept for feature-length projects
• The balance between artistic expression and audience engagement

Key Moments:

• [00:38] Geoffrey introduces Fritz Frauendorf and his journey into filmmaking
• [01:11] Fritz shares how he got started in film school and his early projects
• [02:32] The strategy behind making Manic Man a concise, powerful short film
• [06:19] The importance of local screenings and community support
• [07:36] The role of social media and paid advertising in promoting indie films
• [08:13] The impact of viral success—opportunities and industry recognition
• [10:42] Why attending local film events can lead to unexpected opportunities
• [11:44] Lessons learned from making multiple short films
• [12:56] The shift from experimental filmmaking to crafting audience-driven stories
• [14:59] Expanding Manic Man into a feature-length film and the creative challenges ahead

About the Guest:
Fritz Frauendorf is an independent filmmaker and director known for his viral short film Manic Man. A graduate of the New York Film Academy, he has spent years crafting short films that explore themes of mental health and dissociation. With multiple projects under his belt, Fritz is now working towards developing a feature film that expands on the concepts introduced in Manic Man.

About the Host:
With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. As the host of The Successful Screenwriter, he shares insights from top industry professionals to help writers and filmmakers succeed.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Manic Man short film [Link]
• Fritz’s film production company: Fritz and Lewis Films Instagram

Connect with Fritz Frauendorf:

• Instagram: @fritzandlewisfilms

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Website: The Successful Screenwriter
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod
• TikTok: @screenwriterpod

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow filmmakers and screenwriters! Let us know in the comments what marketing strategies have worked for your short films.Hashtags: #Filmmaking #ShortFilms #Screenwriting #IndieFilm #FilmMarketing #ManicMan #MentalHealthInFilm #ViralFilm #FilmmakerLife #Screenwriter

Episode Description: In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by regular guests Katie Presto and Reece Taylor to analyze and review Companion, the sci-fi horror film that blends psychological tension, AI themes, and unexpected humor. Geoffrey goes in blind, without prior knowledge of the film, leading to fresh reactions and in-depth discussions on themes of love, control, and vulnerability. We also explore standout performances, directorial choices, and how Companion fits into the evolving landscape of horror comedies.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why going into a film blind can enhance the viewing experience.
• How Companion subverts AI horror tropes.
• Sophie Thatcher’s rising star power and character choices.
• The film’s exploration of love, power dynamics, and control.
• How horror-comedy is making a comeback in Hollywood.
• Box office insights and potential for sequels.

Key Moments:

• [00:38] Introduction to the film analysis segment.
• [01:21] Companion logline and initial reactions.
• [02:34] Sophie Thatcher’s performance and comparisons to Anya Taylor-Joy & Jodie Foster.
• [06:39] The shocking reveal: Did you see it coming?
• [08:53] Themes of love, abuse, and control in Companion.
• [12:11] AI love vs. human love: A unique perspective.
• [16:18] Jack Quaid’s performance and eerie resemblance to his father, Dennis Quaid.
• [17:01] Guessing the film’s budget and box office performance.
• [19:23] Horror-comedy: A genre resurgence?
• [20:48] Looking ahead: Next film review (Heart Eyes).

About the Guests:

• Katie Presto: Regular guest and film cinephile, offering unique perspectives on character depth and themes.
• Reece Taylor: Resident “film philosopher,” known for his deep dives into storytelling mechanics.

About the Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is an award-winning screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. With films that have aired on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey shares his passion for storytelling and film analysis to help writers sharpen their craft.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Companion (2024) – Film discussed.
• Ex Machina & Westworld – Similar AI-driven films.
• The Menu – A recent example of suspenseful horror-comedy.

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Podcast Website: The Successful Screenwriter
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod
• TikTok: @screenwriterpod

Enjoyed this breakdown? Like, share, and review the podcast! What did you think of Companion? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media!

#FilmAnalysis #CompanionMovie #Screenwriting #HorrorComedy #SciFiHorror #Podcast #MovieReview

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor for an in-depth film analysis of The Wolfman (2025). They dissect the film's subversive approach to the werewolf genre, its themes of generational trauma, and how it stacks up against classic horror films. Tune in for a spirited discussion filled with differing opinions and plenty of laughs!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The film's unique take on werewolf mythology and practical effects.
• How generational trauma is woven into the narrative.
• The impact of subverting audience expectations in genre films.
• The importance of character development and pacing in horror.
• Insights into the evolving "Dark Universe" of monster movies.

Key Moments:
00:38 - Geoffrey introduces the episode and guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor.
01:01 - Logline and background on The Wolfman and its director, Leigh Whannell.
04:44 - Reece questions whether the film would have worked better without the Wolfman title.
07:08 - Discussion on the film’s subversive approach and use of practical effects.
16:29 - Comparing The Wolfman's box office performance to Nosferatu and audience expectations.

About the Guests:
Katie Presto and Reece Taylor are returning guest hosts who bring their unique perspectives and humor to film analysis. Katie is known for her deep dives into character relationships, while Reece offers critical insights into genre conventions and storytelling.

About the Host:
With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. As the host of The Successful Screenwriter, he interviews industry professionals and shares valuable screenwriting insights.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Saw (2004) by Leigh Whannell
• Upgrade (2018) by Leigh Whannell
• The Invisible Man (2020) by Leigh Whannell
• Insidious (2010) by Leigh Whannell

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Podcast Website
• Instagram @screenwriterpod
• TikTok @screenwriterpod

Did The Wolfman live up to your expectations, or were you left wanting more? Leave a comment and let us know your thoughts! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more industry insights.

#Screenwriting #FilmAnalysis #TheWolfman #HorrorMovies #WerewolfFilms #GenerationalTrauma #SubversiveCinema #PodcastDiscussion #Filmmaking #ScriptwritingTips

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun welcomes guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor to dive into the remake of Nosferatu. Together, they analyze the gothic tale's visual brilliance, explore its storytelling challenges, and debate its thematic depth. With personal insights and contrasting perspectives, the discussion unravels the complexities of this modern take on a classic horror story.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How the Nosferatu remake balances visual storytelling with thematic depth.
• The challenges of adapting gothic classics for modern audiences.
• Exploring themes of obsession, repression, and agency in character arcs.
• Insights into German Expressionism and its influence on the film’s style.
• A candid discussion on the line between formalism and realism in acting.

Key Moments:

1. [00:50] Introduction of the guest hosts and overview of Nosferatu.
2. [03:36] Visual storytelling versus narrative depth: Geoffrey’s initial impressions.
3. [05:31] Katie explores themes of obsession and feeling trapped in the story.
4. [12:07] Reese’s philosophical take: Is inaction a form of action?
5. [18:13] Gothic romance vs. horror: The tension between genres.
6. [25:45] Vlad the Impaler: How the remake reimagines classic Dracula lore.
7. [33:37] German Expressionism’s influence and its distortion of reality.
8. [34:56] Closing thoughts and the uneasy beauty of the Nosferatu remake.

About the Guests:

• Katie Presto: A film enthusiast and screenwriter with a keen eye for thematic depth and character exploration.
• Reece Taylor: A filmmaker and academic with years of experience studying storytelling, visual style, and cinematic history.

About the Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter whose works have aired on network television and streaming platforms. He is the author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter and the host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast, where he interviews industry professionals and provides insights into the craft of storytelling.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Dracula by Bram Stoker
• Nosferatu (2023 remake by Robert Eggers)
• The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari
• Francis Ford Coppola’s Dracula (1992)

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Podcast Website
• Instagram @screenwriterpod
• TikTok @screenwriterpod

Did the Nosferatu remake leave you in awe, or did it miss the mark? Share your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, review, and subscribe for more film analyses and screenwriting tips.

#Nosferatu #Screenwriting #FilmAnalysis #GermanExpressionism #GothicHorror #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey sits down with director Mark Freiburger to discuss his latest feature film, Between Borders. Mark shares the powerful true story that inspired the film, the challenges of shooting in multiple countries, and assembling a stellar cast, including stars from Lost, The Chosen, and more. Get an insider look at how this low-budget indie drama came to life and hear Mark's advice for aspiring filmmakers.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The true story behind Between Borders and why Mark was drawn to it.
• The unique challenges of filming in Romania on a tight 20-day schedule.
• How Mark assembled a cast featuring Elizabeth Tabish (The Chosen), Michael Paul Chan, and Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost).
• Advice for filmmakers on finding their voice and staying persistent.
• The importance of balancing family life and filmmaking.

Key Moments:

• [00:53] Mark introduces Between Borders, based on a true story of survival and asylum.
• [02:33] Assembling the cast: From The Chosen to Lost.
• [06:16] Mark's journey from screenwriter to director and his passion for the project.
• [10:43] Overcoming challenges: Tight schedules, foreign crews, and filming logistics.
• [17:29] Distribution plans for Between Borders and where to watch it.

About the Guest:
Mark Freiburger is a director and screenwriter with a passion for telling impactful stories. His latest film, Between Borders, is a narrative drama based on a true story of an Armenian family's fight for asylum. Mark’s past work includes collaborations with Michael Bay on Transformers 4 and award-winning indie projects.

About the Host:
With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. Through his podcast, The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey inspires and educates the next wave of screenwriters to achieve their dreams.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Between Borders: In theaters starting January 26th, 2025.
• The Chosen on Netflix and Prime

Connect with the Guest:

• Mark Freiburger on Instagram
• Between Borders Official Website

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

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

Don’t forget to like, share, and review the podcast! Subscribe for more insider tips and interviews with industry professionals.

#Screenwriting #Filmmaking #BetweenBorders #MarkFreiburger #IndieFilm #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

In this insightful episode, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun speaks with documentary filmmaker William Hart about his eight-year journey creating Lead and Copper, a film that exposes the ongoing Flint water crisis and the political and social factors behind it. William breaks down what drew him to Flint, how he navigated filming through a pandemic, and the unexpected twists he encountered—from missing documents to changing regulations. Whether you’re a filmmaker, screenwriter, or simply curious about how documentaries come to life, this conversation is packed with inspiration and hard-earned lessons on perseverance and impact.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:

1. William’s Origin Story
   • How a childhood fascination with filmmaking led him into journalism and, ultimately, documentary work on the Flint crisis.
   • The pivotal moment he arrived in Flint for Yahoo News and realized there was a bigger story to tell.
2. Behind the Scenes of Lead and Copper
   • William’s extensive research process and why it took eight years (and counting) to complete this documentary.
   • Surprising obstacles and revelations along the way—like missing city hall documents and community members disappearing.
3. Filmmaking Through Setbacks and COVID
   • How travel limitations and funding shortages impacted the production timeline.
   • The parallels between public health negligence in Flint and early COVID response efforts.
4. Political Implications & Community Impact
   • The role of state-appointed emergency managers and the debate over democratic vs. authoritarian decision-making.
   • Why the Flint crisis remains relevant nationwide, and how other cities face similar water infrastructure concerns.
5. Documentary Filmmaking Advice
   • William’s practical tips for aspiring filmmakers: from picking a story “close to home” to assembling a reliable, supportive team.
   • The iterative process of shooting and editing in segments to shape a powerful final narrative.
6. Distribution & Next Steps
   • Where to watch Lead and Copper—available on multiple on-demand platforms starting November 19.
   • Future screenings in Michigan and how William aims to spark dialogue in other communities at risk.

ABOUT THE GUEST
William Hart is a documentary filmmaker, journalist, and video producer who has spent the last eight years creating Lead and Copper, a film examining the Flint water crisis. With a background in on-the-ground reporting for outlets such as Yahoo News, William’s work aims to amplify social justice issues and advocate for policy reforms that protect vulnerable communities. He has screened his documentary at film festivals throughout the U.S. and plans to continue using it as a tool for public education and activism.

ABOUT THE HOST
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is the host of The Successful Screenwriter, dedicated to empowering and educating storytellers. As a screenwriter, best-selling author, and entrepreneur, Geoffrey’s mission is to offer professional insights, interviews, and resources to help creatives thrive in the ever-evolving film and TV industry.

Connect with Geoffrey:

• www.thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com
• Instagram - @screenwriterpod
• TikTok - @screenwriterpod
• YouTube - The Successful Screenwriter

• Watch Lead and Copper: Catch William’s documentary on your favorite on-demand platform.
• Share & Review: If you found this episode valuable, please share it with fellow filmmakers, screenwriters, and advocates who want to learn more about creating social-change documentaries.
• Stay Inspired: For more episodes packed with industry insights and expert advice, follow The Successful Screenwriter on your favorite podcast platform.

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this conversation with William Hart, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Your support helps us keep the spotlight on stories that need to be heard.

#Filmmaking, #DocumentaryFilm, #WaterCrisis, #FlintWaterCrisis, #LeadAndCopper, #Filmmaker, #SocialJustice, #CleanWaterForAll, #PublicHealth, #InspiringStories, #Screenwriting, #BehindTheScenes, #PodcastInterview, #FilmmakersLife, #IndieFilm, #DocumentaryFilmmaker, #TrueStory, #MichiganFilm, #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

On this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun connects with writer and producer William Mikita, the creative force behind Chasing 3000—a heartfelt baseball drama that tapped big-name talent like Ray Liotta. William opens up about his life-altering shift from attorney to filmmaker, sparked by a deeply personal story and a refusal to take “no” for an answer.He also teases Brewer’s Boys, the captivating true tale of a 1965 Los Angeles high school baseball team in the midst of the Watts riots—complete with future Major League stars and an inspiring coach. If you’re looking to move your script from the page to the big screen, William’s journey offers a roadmap to resilience, resourcefulness, and remarkable results.

Key Takeaways

1. Finding Your Unique Story
   • How real-life trials sparked William’s passion for writing
   • Transforming personal experiences into universal narratives
2. Overcoming “No” to Get to “Yes”
   • Outside-the-box approaches to film financing, even after multiple rejections
   • Recognizing “no” as a potential “not right now”
3. Becoming a Writer-Producer
   • Taking charge of your project and controlling its trajectory
   • Networking and pitching effectively to attract partners and investors
4. Crafting Scripts That Attract Talent
   • Why honing your screenplay is crucial to winning over A-list actors
   • How feedback and persistence led to Ray Liotta joining Chasing 3000
5. Inside Brewer’s Boys
   • An underdog team rising amid social turmoil in 1960s L.A.
   • How a committed coach and strong team camaraderie defied the odds

Memorable Quote“If people you meet don’t have your vision, just tell them to get out of your way and keep moving forward.” — William MikitaAbout the Guest: William MikitaWilliam Mikita is a writer, producer, and former attorney whose passion for both baseball and authentic storytelling birthed Chasing 3000 and, most recently, Brewer’s Boys. He thrives on developing meaningful narratives drawn from true-life experiences—stories that spark inspiration and resonate with wide audiences.

Connect with William Mikita

• Facebook: Bill Mikita
• LinkedIn: Bill Mikita
• X (Twitter): @BillMikita

About the Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is the founder of The Successful Screenwriter and best-selling author of The Guide for Every Screenwriting, with films featured on network television and streaming. Through his podcast, blog, YouTube channel, and online community, Geoffrey shares practical, creative insights designed to empower screenwriters at every stage of their careers.

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun

• Website: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod
• TikTok: @screenwriterpod

Ready to Elevate Your Screenwriting?
Visit TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com for free resources, tutorials, and previous podcast episodes. If you found value in today’s show, please subscribe and leave a review—your support enables us to continue bringing you uplifting and informative content.

Listen Now:
Tune in to learn how William Mikita turned personal tragedy into a cinematic triumph, and why perseverance, strategic pitching, and unwavering faith in your script can open doors you never knew existed. This episode is a must-listen for anyone determined to see their stories come to life on screen.

#TheSuccessfulScreenwriter, #ScreenwriterPod, #WritingCommunity, #ScreenwritingTips, #Filmmaking, #IndieFilm, #PodcastRecommendations, #WritingAdvice, #FilmFinancing, #WritersLife, #MovieMaking, #BrewersBoys, #Chasing3000, #BaseballFilm, #WilliamMikita, #GeoffreyDCalhoun, #BestSellingAuthor, #FilmsOnStreaming

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Adam Tex Davis, the Emmy-nominated writer behind Just Friends starring Ryan Reynolds and the groundbreaking show Brain Games. Tex shares his journey from writing Star Wars fan stories as a kid to scripting beloved films and creating educational content that captivates audiences of all ages. From hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes to career advice on versatility, this conversation offers insights into navigating Hollywood and staying creative in a competitive industry.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Tex turned childhood inspiration into a successful screenwriting career.
• The origin story of Just Friends and its relatable resonance.
• What it’s like to run an educational TV writer's room.
• The surprising life of projects that get canceled but continue to succeed.
• Why versatility is key to longevity as a screenwriter.

Key Moments:

• [00:38] Introduction: Welcoming Adam Tex Davis and clarifying his Emmy nomination.
• [03:50] The inspiration behind Just Friends and how it sold as a spec script.
• [07:37] Brain Games: Developing a hit educational series for National Geographic.
• [14:45] Brainchild: Creating a Netflix show with Pharrell Williams.
• [16:30] Pivoting to podcasts: Tex’s work on Who Smarted? and The Oscars: What Were They Thinking?

About the Guest:
Adam Tex Davis is an Emmy-nominated writer known for the hit comedy Just Friends and the educational phenomenon Brain Games. He has crafted compelling stories for film, television, and podcasts, demonstrating his creative versatility across mediums. Tex continues to inspire with his popular science podcast Who Smarted? and his film analysis show, The Oscars: What Were They Thinking?

About the Host:
With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is the author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter and host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. He is passionate about teaching and inspiring the next generation of writers.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Who Smarted? Podcast: Listen Here

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Website: The Successful Screenwriter
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod
• TIkTok: @screenwriterpod

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe for more insights from Hollywood’s top creatives! Share this episode with fellow writers, and let us know your thoughts in the comments.

#Screenwriting #JustFriendsMovie #BrainGames #EducationalContent #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #SpecScripts #HollywoodStories #TVWriting #WritingCommunity #PodcastInterview

In this episode, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with David Smallwood, the 2024 Script Summit Best Feature Screenplay winner, to discuss his award-winning script Sad Blue Dan. David reveals the origins of this elevated horror piece—rooted in a vivid, decades-old dream—and shares how he refined it into a contemporary Native American story that seamlessly blends slow-burn psychological tension with genuine cultural authenticity. Together, they delve into the intricacies of creating elevated horror, the subtlety of maintaining tension without overexposure, and the importance of diverse representation in genre storytelling. David also provides insights into working with Coverfly, InkTip, and WriterDuet, illustrating how these platforms and tools have bolstered his career momentum since his big win.Key Topics Covered:

• Behind Sad Blue Dan:
  • Origin and evolution of the story, from a vivid dream to a fully realized screenplay
  • Balancing psychological horror, slow-burn tension, and minimal jump scares
  • Portraying contemporary Native American characters with authenticity and depth
• Elevated Horror & Representation:
  • What “elevated horror” means in terms of tone, pacing, and storytelling approach
  • Strategies for preserving mystery and suspense without revealing too much too soon
  • Challenging audience preconceptions through culturally nuanced narratives
• Leveraging Industry Resources:
  • Utilizing Script Summit’s win as a professional calling card
  • Building industry connections through platforms like Coverfly and InkTip
  • Enhancing collaboration and workflow using WriterDuet’s versatile screenwriting software
• Looking Ahead:
  • Positioning Sad Blue Dan as a portfolio piece and gateway to future opportunities
  • Continual learning, adapting, and expanding into new genres
  • Maintaining enthusiasm and a growth mindset to stand out in a competitive market

About the Guest:
David Smallwood is an emerging screenwriter celebrated for his distinct voice and cultural insight. His award-winning screenplay, Sad Blue Dan, captures both the personal and the mythic while bringing fresh perspectives to the horror genre. With multiple finalist placements in prestigious competitions, David’s work is making waves and opening doors in the industry.

About the Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a professional screenwriter, best-selling author of The Guide For Every Screenwriter, and host of The Successful Screenwriter. With his films featured on major networks and popular streaming platforms, Geoffrey brings a wealth of firsthand industry knowledge to every interview. He’s dedicated to demystifying the screenwriting process, mentoring emerging talent, and connecting audiences with the tools and insights needed to thrive in the world of film and television.

Sponsors & Resources Mentioned:

• WriterDuet: Innovative, collaborative software that streamlines the writing process.
• InkTip: A resource for connecting screenwriters with producers and decision-makers actively seeking new scripts.
• Coverfly: A powerhouse platform providing contests, feedback, and networking opportunities to help advance emerging screenwriting careers.
• Script Summit: A reputable festival and contest designed to discover new voices, accelerate careers, and provide tangible industry connections.

Connect with David Smallwood:

• Website: DavidSmallwood.net
• Instagram: @ADSmallwood

Listen & Subscribe:
Don’t miss future conversations with talented writers and industry experts on The Successful Screenwriter. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform and stay inspired, informed, and ready to take your writing to the next level.

#ElevatedHorror #SadBlueDan #DavidSmallwood #ScriptSummitWinner #BestFeatureScreenplay #NativeAmericanRepresentation #PsychologicalHorror #SlowBurnSuspense #ContemporaryHorrorFilm #ScreenwritingAdvice #CulturalAuthenticityInFilm #IndieFilmmaking #Coverfly #InkTip #WriterDuet #TheSuccessfulScreenwriterPodcast #GeoffreyDCalhoun #HorrorScreenplays #ScreenwritingTools #BreakingIntoTheIndustry

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter podcast, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with author Douglas A. Burton to discuss his groundbreaking book, The Heroine’s Labyrinth. Douglas offers a fresh perspective on story structure, presenting an alternative to the traditional hero’s journey tailored for heroine-centric stories.They explore how the heroine’s labyrinth differs from classic storytelling frameworks, dive into examples from popular media like Westworld and The Truman Show, and discuss its relevance for modern writers. This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice for screenwriters and storytellers looking for new approaches to crafting compelling narratives.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The key differences between the heroine’s labyrinth and the hero’s journey.
• How the labyrinth structure offers new storytelling possibilities.
• Examples of the labyrinth model in popular films and TV shows.
• How to apply the heroine’s labyrinth to your own writing projects.
• Why alternative story structures are essential for creative freedom.

Key Moments:

• [00:38] Introduction to Douglas A. Burton and The Heroine’s Labyrinth.
• [02:00] Why the heroine’s labyrinth was created and how it evolved.
• [06:00] Comparing labyrinthine storytelling to traditional structures.
• [11:00] Examples of labyrinth storytelling in Westworld, Pan’s Labyrinth, and more.
• [20:00] Advice for writers seeking alternative story structures.

About the Guest:
Douglas A. Burton is an author and storyteller whose passion for narrative structure led him to develop the heroine’s labyrinth, a unique framework for heroine-centric stories. His book offers practical examples and tools for writers to break free from traditional storytelling molds.

About the Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author, and the host of The Successful Screenwriter podcast. He has written films that have aired on network television and streaming platforms. His book, The Guide for Every Screenwriter, has been praised by industry icons like Christopher Vogler and Viki King for its practical and inspirational approach to the craft. Geoffrey’s passion for storytelling and teaching has made him a trusted mentor in the screenwriting community.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• The Heroine’s Labyrinth by Douglas A. Burton: [Link to purchase]
• The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell
• The Writer’s Journey by Christopher Vogler

Connect with Douglas A. Burton:

• Website: douglasaburton.com
• Instagram: @dougburtonwriter

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Website: https://thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave a review! Don’t forget to subscribe to The Successful Screenwriter podcast for more insights from industry professionals.