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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews Tony Sella, the legendary marketing executive behind some of Hollywood's most iconic movie campaigns. During his decades at 20th Century Fox, Sella was the creative force behind unforgettable posters, trailers, taglines, and promotions for films including Avatar, X-Men, Independence Day, Bohemian Rhapsody, and nearly 1,000 others. He shares insights into his creative process, memorable marketing moments, and the philosophy that guided his extraordinary career.

Research as the Foundation for Creative Solutions (01:55) Sella emphasizes that research is only as valuable as the questions asked, highlighting how audience feedback helped solve marketing challenges for films like The Happening and Life of Pi. He and Goetz discuss their long collaboration using qualitative research to refine marketing approaches for hundreds of successful campaigns.

Finding the "Essential Idea" in Marketing (03:56) Sella explains his unique ability to identify a film's core marketing hook, as demonstrated with the Devil Wears Prada campaign featuring the iconic Prada shoe as a trident.

Balancing Trailer Impact with Movie Quality (11:35) Sella reveals a crucial marketing principle about the relationship between trailers and the films they promote, using examples from both Avatar and The Simpsons Movie. For good movies, the trailer must be exceptional, while for truly great films, the trailer must match the emotional impact of the film itself.

Groundbreaking Campaigns: Independence Day (15:49) Describing the legendary Super Bowl spot featuring the White House explosion, Sella explains how they created a cultural phenomenon with the tagline "Enjoy the Super Bowl. It may be your last."

From Disney to Fox: Career Evolution (21:12) Sella recalls getting his "PhD" at Disney, working on hits like Good Morning Vietnam before moving to Fox, where he helped transform films like Taken through innovative marketing approaches and identifying powerful campaign hooks.

The Three Pillars of Creative Success (43:55) Reflecting on campaigns for Walk the Line and Bohemian Rhapsody, Sella shares his philosophy that the most important elements in creative work are passion, talent, and taste—innate qualities that cannot be acquired.

During this lively discussion, Sella showcases the creative intuition that made him a marketing legend while acknowledging the collaborative nature of his success. His story offers helpful insights for anyone interested in film marketing, promotion, or the art of connecting with audiences.

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: Tony Sella

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Tony Sella:

 IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2523305/

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

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews Shane Black, one of Hollywood's highest-paid screenwriters, who redefined action films with witty dialogue, dark humor, and unforgettable characters. From Lethal Weapon to The Nice Guys, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and Iron Man 3, Shane discusses his journey from a self-described "oddball" to a filmmaking powerhouse.

Pittsburgh Roots and Early Influences (02:55)

Born in Pittsburgh, Black shares how his father's printing business and bookshelf of detective novels sparked his love for "tough guy literature" that would later influence his writing style.

Overcoming Personal Struggles (08:00)

Black candidly discusses his battles with OCD and alcoholism. He reveals how he transformed these challenges into creative strengths and encourages others to "just lean into being weird."

The Psychology Behind His Characters (12:04)

Black explains how his characters often represent different aspects of his own psychology. He emphasizes that truly compelling writing comes from creating characters with authentic emotional DNA that resonates with the writer's own experiences.

The Creation of Lethal Weapon (15:32)

Black describes Lethal Weapon as "an urban western" with Mel Gibson's character representing "a Frankenstein kept in a cage" - a Vietnam veteran reviled by society but needed when violence intrudes on everyday life.

Working with Hollywood Icons (27:13)

Black shares insights about working with legends like Richard Donner, Tony Scott, Joel Silver, and Robert Downey Jr.

From Writer to Director (40:06)

Black explains his transition to directing to have more creative control over his work. Black adds that directing allows him to move beyond returning to the blank page and into a more collaborative aspect of filmmaking.

Latest Project: Play Dirty (52:01)

Black discusses working with Mark Wahlberg, and adapting Donald Westlake's Parker series for Amazon, calling Westlake "the king" among mystery writers and explaining his lifelong admiration for these stories he first read at age 12.

Throughout the conversation, Black offers a masterclass on screenwriting in Hollywood. Black and Kevin Goetz discover numerous personal connections, creating an unusually intimate portrait of a filmmaker who transformed Hollywood's action genre. His journey from a bookish child to acclaimed filmmaker serves as proof that leaning into one's unique perspective can lead to extraordinary creative achievements.

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: Shane Black

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Shane Black:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shane_Black

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000948/

Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/director/shane-black/

For more information about Kevin Goetz:

Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com

Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz welcomes an industry titan-- film producer and studio executive Mike Medavoy. With a career spanning over five decades, Medavoy has been closely involved with over 300 feature films, with seven winning Best Picture Oscars. From agent to studio chief to producer, his remarkable journey from Shanghai to Hollywood has shaped some of cinema's most important films, including Rocky, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Apocalypse Now, Platoon, and Silence of the Lambs. With characteristic humility and wisdom, Medavoy shares fascinating stories from his illustrious career.

Early Life and Global Upbringing (03:12)

Born in Shanghai in 1941 to Russian-Ukrainian Jewish parents, Medavoy moved to Chile in 1947 before settling in California, speaking Shanghai-nese, Russian, Spanish, and English.

Breaking into Hollywood (07:40)

After UCLA and the US Army Reserve, Medavoy started in Universal's mailroom in 1964, making industry friendships that became the foundation of his career.

From Agent to Studio Executive (11:15)

Medavoy recounts transitioning from talent agent to Senior VP of Production at United Artists, where his first major film was One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

United Artists and an Unprecedented Oscar Run (16:26)

At UA, Medavoy helped shepherd three consecutive Best Picture winners: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Rocky, and Annie Hall.

Formation of Orion Pictures (19:43)

Medavoy discusses co-founding Orion Pictures, which produced classics like Amadeus, Platoon, and The Silence of the Lambs.

Stories Behind the Classics (24:26)

Fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about iconic films including Platoon, Terminator, and Apocalypse Now.

Advice for the Next Generation (38:56) For emerging filmmakers, Medavoy recommends "The Story of Film" as essential viewing.

Throughout this conversation, Medavoy reveals himself as not just an industry treasure but a thoughtful observer of both cinema and life. His journey from immigrant roots to Hollywood exemplifies the dream many pursue but few achieve. With remarkable candor, he discusses both triumphs and regrets, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of someone who has truly shaped modern cinema while remaining, as Kevin notes, "a very charming and decent human being."

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: Mike Medavoy

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Mike Medavoy:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Medavoy
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005219/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Youre-Only-Good-Your-Next/dp/0743400550

For more information about Kevin Goetz:

Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com

Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678

Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram: @KevinGoetz360

Linked In @Kevin Goetz

Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with Chris Landon, the acclaimed writer, director, and producer known for films like Happy Death Day, Freaky, Disturbia, and most recently, Heart Eyes. Son of television legend Michael Landon, Chris has carved his own path in Hollywood, specializing in horror comedy or what he calls "feel-good horror." He candidly shares personal stories about his Hollywood upbringing, coming out, surviving kidney cancer, and the creative approaches that have defined his successful career.

Growing Up as Michael Landon's Son (05:04)

Landon discusses his childhood as the son of a famous father, his parents' divorce, and how his mother's sudden religious conversion impacted his youth.

Facing Personal Challenges (10:56)

Chris opens up about his father's untimely death from pancreatic cancer when Chris was just 16, and his own journey as a cancer survivor, sharing an important message about health vigilance.

Early Film Influences and Career Beginnings (12:07)

Landon talks about his early love for horror films, how watching his father's fulfillment at work influenced him, and his introduction to both horror and emotional films like Terms of Endearment.

From Writer to Director's Jail (24:41)

Chris details his path from writing Disturbia to joining the Paranormal Activity franchise after boldly speaking up in a meeting, his experience with residuals, and eventually facing "director's jail" after Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse.

Breaking through with Happy Death Day (38:38)

Landon shares the story of how he resurrected a shelved script called Half to Death that became Happy Death Day, a $5 million film that grossed around $150 million and revitalized his career.

Learning from Test Screenings (43:17)

Landon explains key insights gained from audience screenings, including respecting the audience's intelligence and never betraying the rules established in a film.

Upcoming Film: Drop (46:48)

Landon previews his new edge-of-your-seat thriller Drop (releasing April 11), calling it his "grown-up movie" and a modern-day Hitchcock thriller starring Meagan Fahy.

Throughout the conversation, Chris Landon demonstrates his resilience, creative vision, and commitment to authentic storytelling. From navigating Hollywood as the son of a legend to creating his own distinct voice in the horror genre, his journey offers insights into filmmaking, audience engagement, and personal growth.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. 

Host: Kevin Goetz

Guest: Chris Landon

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Chris Landon:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Landon_(filmmaker)
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0484907/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechrislandon/?hl=en

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

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with acclaimed producer David Permut, the visionary behind films like Face/Off, Hacksaw Ridge (Academy Award nominee for Best Picture), Dragnet, and most recently, Rustin. His films have garnered multiple Academy Award nominations, and he is known for his exceptional ability to discover new talent and bring challenging stories to the screen. From selling star maps as a teenager to executive producing with Barack and Michelle Obama, Permut shares candid stories about his remarkable journey in Hollywood.

Early Beginnings and Star Maps (02:15)

Permut discusses his start as the publisher of Beverly Hills Map Company, selling maps to celebrity homes while meeting stars like Fred Astaire, Elvis Presley, and Katherine Hepburn.

Learning from Bill Sargent (09:17)

The producer shares how meeting promoter Bill Sargent led to his first major projects, including Give 'em Hell, Harry! starring James Whitmore.

Richard Pryor Live in Concert (16:30)

Permut reveals the story behind producing Richard Pryor's groundbreaking concert film, which grossed $32.5 million.

Face/Off: From Shelf to Screen (24:33)

Details the fascinating journey of acquiring Face/Off from Warner Brothers, investing his own money for the option, and bringing John Woo on board to direct what would become a major hit.

The Making of Hacksaw Ridge (30:04)

Permut talks about the 17-year journey to bring Desmond Doss's story to screen, culminating in six Oscar nominations and working with Mel Gibson.

Rustin and Working with the Obamas (36:05)

Permut discusses collaborating with Barack and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground Productions on Rustin and the importance of telling meaningful stories.

Current Projects and Future Vision (41:27)

The producer shares his excitement about discovering new talent and his upcoming projects, including Twinless with James Sweeney and Being Heumann, the story of disability rights activist Judy Heumann.

Throughout this engaging conversation, David Permut embodies his own philosophy: "Die with your memories, not your dreams." From selling star maps to producing Oscar-nominated films, his journey demonstrates the power of passion and persistence in Hollywood. Whether creating blockbusters or meaningful dramas, Permut's enthusiasm for discovering new talent and telling important stories remains as strong as ever.

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: David Permut

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about David Permut:

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Permut

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0674303/

Variety: https://variety.com/exec/david-permut/

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

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with Elizabeth Gabler, known for transforming literary works into cinematic successes. From her early days as an agent's assistant to becoming president of Fox 2000 and now Sony 3000 Pictures, Gabler shares insights from her remarkable career developing hit films like Life of Pi, The Devil Wears Prada, Mrs. Doubtfire, Marley and Me, and Where the Crawdads Sing.

Early Career and Love of Reading (01:43)

Gabler discusses her background in English literature and unexpected entry into entertainment, influenced by her early love of reading and her mother's influence as a librarian.

United Artists and Early Development (10:12)

The conversation explores her time at United Artists, working with industry legends like Jerry Weintraub and Billy Wilder, and developing projects like Roadhouse and Presumed Innocent that would later become successful films.

Mrs. Doubtfire Development (13:30)

Gabler shares the fascinating story of bringing Mrs. Doubtfire to the screen, including working with Robin Williams and director Chris Columbus, and overcoming initial skepticism about the project.

Cast Away and Production Innovation (23:22)

Discussion of the unique production process of Cast Away, including Tom Hanks' physical transformation and Robert Zemeckis making an entire other film during the production break.

Life of Pi Journey (29:43)

Elizabeth offers a detailed look at the challenging journey to bring Life of Pi to the screen, including Ang Lee's involvement and the innovative technical approaches required.

Devil Wears Prada Casting (36:48)

The pair discuss the casting process for The Devil Wears Prada, including securing Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, and the discovery of Emily Blunt.

Current Projects and Personal Life (46:20)

Gabler discusses her current project Klara and the Sun with director Taika Waititi and stars Jenna Ortega and Amy Adams, while also touching on personal aspects including the recent loss of her husband Lee.

This intimate conversation reveals not just the mechanics of bringing books to screen, but the passion, persistence, and vision required to create lasting cinema. Gabler's deep love for storytelling and family themes runs throughout her work and this discussion, offering insights into how personal values can shape professional success.

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: Elizabeth Gabler

Producer: Kari Campano

Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano

Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Elizabeth Gabler:

Variety: https://variety.com/exec/elizabeth-gabler/

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1992894/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-gabler-7b030a19

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

Send Kevin a Text Message

In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz welcomes director and producer Brad Furman, known for films like The Lincoln Lawyer, The Infiltrator, Runner Runner, The Take, and City of Lies. The episode opens with Furman reading a touching tribute letter he wrote after the passing of his friend, filmmaker John Singleton, setting the tone for an intimate conversation about perseverance, mentorship, and the evolution of his career.

From Basketball to Film School (03:48)
Furman shares his transition from college basketball at Emory to pursuing film at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, discussing how his competitive sports background shaped his approach to filmmaking.

Early Career and Notable Mentors (17:22)
The conversation explores Furman's early career experiences, including working as Julia Roberts' assistant for three years, and learning from industry veterans like Cis Corman at Barbara Streisand's production company.

A Family Affair with Shirley MacLaine (29:24)
Furman discusses People Not Places, a project 12 years in the making that began with his mother Ellen Furman's screenplay specifically written for Shirley MacLaine. The film, starring MacLaine and Stephen Dorff, became Furman's "most beautiful experience" in filmmaking.

City of Lies and Perseverance (33:05)
Furman talks about getting City of Lies (starring Johnny Depp) released despite numerous obstacles, including corporate bankruptcies, the pandemic, and industry challenges.

The Lincoln Lawyer Journey (37:33)
Furman shares his regret about leaving Lakeshore Entertainment after the success of The Lincoln Lawyer. He reflects on lessons learned from working with Tom Rosenberg and the challenges of navigating studio politics.

Current Projects (45:30)
The episode concludes with Furman reflecting on his growth as both a filmmaker and father. He shares how his experiences have brought him to what he calls his "Michael Jordan years" - his prime as a filmmaker.

From his early days making The Take with John Leguizamo, through the breakthrough success of The Lincoln Lawyerwith Matthew McConaughey, to battling to release City of Lies with Johnny Depp, and now creating intimate character studies like People Not Places with Shirley MacLaine, Brad Furman’s career demonstrates remarkable range and resilience.

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: Brad Furman
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Brad Furman:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brad_Furman
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1026778/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradfurman/?hl=en

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

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with his good friend, mentor, and colleague, Catherine Paura, a pioneering force in entertainment research who co-founded National Research Group (NRG) in 1977. As an accomplished entrepreneur, Paura helped establish the foundation for modern movie research and marketing. From her humble beginnings to becoming one of Hollywood's most influential research experts, Paura shares insights from her career. The episode is particularly special as it features a conversation between two longtime friends - Paura and Goetz have maintained a close personal and professional relationship spanning nearly 40 years.

Apocalypse Now and Early Movie Research (12:13)
Paura discusses how she and Joe Farrell transformed movie marketing from a distribution model to a marketing-centric approach, working with early adopters like Francis Ford Coppola on Apocalypse Now.

Evolution of Movie Marketing (20:34)
The conversation explores how the transition to television advertising and wide releases created the need for sophisticated marketing research.

The Power of Messaging (35:03)
Paura emphasizes the continued importance of messaging in modern marketing.

The Future of the Movie Industry (39:10)
Paura shares her vision for the industry's future, predicting a continued shrinking of theatrical audiences due to changing habits and generational shifts. The pair discuss how COVID-19 accelerated existing trends and the impact of evolving entertainment consumption patterns.

Life Lessons and Personal Growth (42:03)
In a touching moment, Paura reveals her biggest career lesson came from her dying friend, who told her: "When you're dying, you'll never wish that you had worked one more day."

The Art of Coaching (47:53)
Paura discusses her current role as a professional coach, explaining how she combined her experience with formal training to help others create their own success stories.

Catherine Paura and Kevin Goetz's 40-year friendship weaves throughout the episode, from their first meeting where Paura was counting questionnaires on theater steps to sharing pivotal life moments, including the loss of loved ones. Their evolving relationship demonstrates how professional relationships in Hollywood can transcend business. Their candid conversation reveals not just the evolution of movie research, but the importance of mentorship, mutual respect, and showing up for each other when it matters most.

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: Catherine Paura
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Catherine Paura:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-paura-2098a63b
Sistina Coaching: https://sistinacoaching.com/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0667474/

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

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews legendary producer Brian Grazer. As co-founder of Imagine Entertainment with Ron Howard, Grazer's films and television shows have earned 47 Oscar nominations and 242 Emmy nominations, with his movies grossing nearly $15 billion globally. Known for hits like A Beautiful Mind (which won him the Academy Award for Best Picture), Apollo 13, and Friday Night Lights. During the conversation, Grazer opens up about the power of curiosity, the secret to his 40-year partnership with Ron Howard, and the magic of connecting with audiences through emotionally resonant storytelling.

The Power of Curiosity (03:38)
Grazer shares how he built his career through "curiosity conversations" with industry legends, discussing his unique approach to meeting and talking with influential figures.

Finding Creative Purpose (10:59)
Grazer reflects on how watching E.T. transformed his understanding of cinema's emotional impact, inspiring him to create films that elevate audiences.

The Heart of Storytelling (13:13)
The producer discusses his philosophy that stories are designed to ignite emotion, and how he seeks projects that allow characters to achieve emotional transformation. Grazer believes that his greatest successes come from connecting to the soul of the material instead of merely making "business" decisions.

Building Imagine Entertainment (26:13)
The producer discusses his 40-year partnership with Ron Howard, explaining how their contrasting personalities and aligned values created a perfect collaboration.

Oscar Night Memories (29:42)
Grazer shares his Academy Award experience, starting with a surprising admission about Apollo 13's loss years earlier, and how his Best Picture win for A Beautiful Mind was a moment of redemption.

The Art of Human Connection (37:06)
Grazer discusses his two books, explaining how "A Curious Mind" explores curiosity as an engine. He shares how his second book, "Face to Face: The Art of Human Connection," was inspired by a profound interaction with his housekeeper.

Brian Grazer's remarkable career demonstrates the power of curiosity, emotional storytelling, and human connection in creating impactful entertainment. From his early days selling newspaper subscriptions to winning an Oscar for A Beautiful Mind, Grazer's journey exemplifies how maintaining humility, following one's instincts, and seeking deeper meaning in stories can lead to extraordinary success 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: Brian Grazer
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Brian Grazer:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Grazer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briangrazer/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004976/

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: ww

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews David Friendly, whose remarkable career transition from journalism to film production led to an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture with Little Miss Sunshine. David worked with industry giants like Ron Howard and Brian Grazer before establishing himself as a successful producer. His producing credits include Courage Under Fire, Dr. Dolittle, Big Momma's House, Laws of Attraction, and the hit USA Network series Queen of the South. In this conversation, Friendly shares candid stories about his career transition, the making of Little Miss Sunshine, lessons learned from his mentors, and his perspective on an ever-changing industry.

From Journalism to Hollywood: A Bold Career Change (06:12)
David Friendly reflects on his nine-year journalism career at Newsweek and the LA Times, where his coverage of the entertainment industry sparked his desire to make movies.

Backdraft and the Imagine Years (13:41)
Friendly talks about discovering Backdraft, which became his first major success. This marked the beginning of a successful tenure that included projects like My Girl and Kindergarten Cop.

Learning from Hollywood's Best (24:12)
Friendly shares how Ron Howard and Brian Grazer's mentorship continues to influence his producing decisions years later, with their voices still guiding him through difficult situations.

The Making of Little Miss Sunshine and an Oscar Nomination (32:02)
Friendly discusses Little Miss Sunshine, assembling an outstanding ensemble cast including Steve Carell, and the thrill of receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture.

The Joy and Anxiety of Test Screenings (41:30)
Friendly offers unique insight into a producer's perspective on audience test screenings, describing the intense anxiety of waiting for audience reactions.

Producing in a Rapidly Changing Environment (45:24)
Friendly emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing markets, as demonstrated by his successful venture into television with Queen of the South.

Friendly's guiding philosophy of acceptance and gratitude offers wisdom for navigating a career in an ever-evolving business. Through all its iterations, from journalism to blockbuster films to streaming television, Friendly's career shows that success in Hollywood requires not just talent, but also the ability to learn from mentors, trust one's instincts, and the ability to adapt.

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: David Friendly
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about David Friendly:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_T._Friendly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidtfriendly/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0295560/

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

Send Kevin a Text Message

In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," host Kevin Goetz sits down with Gary Lucchesi, the acclaimed producer and former President of the Producer’s Guild of America. From his early days as a talent agent at William Morris to his tenure as President of Production at Paramount Pictures, Gary has been a driving force behind numerous hit films. As a producer, his credits include Primal Fear, Million Dollar Baby, The Lincoln Lawyer, and Runaway Bride, among many others. In this insightful conversation, Gary shares stories from his career, discussing the art of assembling the right talent, the power of test screenings, and his thoughts on the future of the film industry.

From William Morris to Hollywood Heavyweight (07:41)
Gary talks about his early days at the William Morris Agency and the lessons he learned from mentors like Stan Kamen. He shares stories about signing talent like Michelle Pfeiffer and Kevin Costner.

The Paramount Years (17:45)
Gary discusses his tenure as President of Production at Paramount Pictures, where he oversaw films like The Hunt for Red October and Fatal Attraction.

Saving Fatal Attraction with a New Ending (21:25)
Gary shares the story of how a focus group and audience test screening led to a major change in the ending of Fatal Attraction, turning it from a "bummer" into a box office hit.

Producing Primal Fear and Discovering Edward Norton (28:21)
Gary dives into the making of Primal Fear, discussing the casting process and how Edward Norton’s brilliant audition won him the career-launching role over other contenders like Leonardo DiCaprio.

Million Dollar Baby and the Road to the Oscars (33:15)
Gary shares the journey of making Million Dollar Baby, from the script's origins to Clint Eastwood's involvement to the film's Academy Award.

Bringing Andrew Lloyd Weber to the Big Screen (37:08)
Gary talks about his time working with Andrew Lloyd Weber and bringing musicals like Sunset Boulevard and Cats to the screen.

The Shifting Landscape of the Film Industry (42:38)
Kevin and Gary discuss the seismic changes in the film business. Gary shares his optimism about the next generation reinventing the industry.

Gary Lucchesi brings his passion for producing, his keen eye for talent, and his deep understanding of the filmmaking process to this conversation with his friend, and host, Kevin Goetz. For anyone interested in the art and business of filmmaking, this episode offers a front-row seat to one of the industry's most accomplished and respected producers.

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: Gary Lucchesi
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Kari Campano, and Nick Nunez
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)

For more information about Gary Lucchesi:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Lucchesi
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0524342/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-lucchesi-26204127a 

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