On Story

Apr 16, 2011

his first episode of On Story includes new interviews from Randall Wallace, Writer-Director, Secretariat; Lawrence Kasdan, Screenwriter, Empire Strikes Back; Shane Black, Writer-Director, Lethal Weapon, Long Kiss Goodnight, and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang; and the short film Northeast Front, an Austin Film Festival 2010 Official Selection, by Angela Torres Camerena.

Apr 23, 2011

In episode 2 of "On Story," the creative minds behind STAR TREK, TRANSFORMERS, EL MARIACHI, and WATCHMEN discuss the challenge of creating fantastical worlds and getting the audience to suspend their disbelief. Featuring David Hayter, Roberto Orci, Damon Lindelof, and Robert Rodriguez. Film: Tadpoles by Miguel Alvarez

Apr 30, 2011

In episode 3 of "On Story," the creative minds behind TO DIE FOR, THE 40 YEAR OLD VIRGIN, NATIONAL LAMPOON'S VACATION, and THE HANGOVER discuss comedy in film. Featuring Harold Ramis, Judd Apatow, Buck Henry, and Jon Lucas. Film: Sleep Study by Kerri Lendo and John Merriman and MY BIGGEST WEAKNESS by Bradley Jackson.

May 7, 2011

In episode 4 of "On Story," the creative minds behind APOLLO 13, SCHINDLER'S LIST, and A BEAUTIFUL MIND discuss the inspiration behind these classic, Academy Award winning films. Featuring 'Ron Howard' and Steven Zaillian.

May 14, 2011

Episode 5 of "On Story," the creative minds behind UNFORGIVEN, A PERFECT WORLD, and 3:10 TO YUMA discuss creating westerns with resonance. Featuring John Lee Hancock, David Peoples, Michael Brandt and Derek Haas. Film: WESTERN by Lucas Millard

May 21, 2011

The creative minds behind the shows Mad Men, The Wire, and Treme discuss historical and modern day relevance in television dramas.

May 28, 2011

War in film is discussed by the creative minds behind Red Dawn, Born on the 4th of July and Apocalypse Now. Featuring Oliver Stone and John Milius.

Jun 11, 2011

Creating a film from script to screen is discussed by the writer/directors behind Slumdog Millionaire, Up in the Air, and The Brothers McMullen. Featuring Danny Boyle, Jason Reitman, and Ed Burns.

Jun 18, 2011

Working within the studio system is discussed by the local filmmakers behind Office Space, Lonesome Dove and El mariachi. Featuring Mike Judge, Bill Wittliff and Robert Rodriguez.

Jun 25, 2011

Jul 2, 2011

Jul 16, 2011

Developing and understanding heroes and villains is discussed by the creative minds behind RAMBO, LETHAL WEAPON, BRAVEHEART, and Dexter. Featuring Álvaro Rodríguez, Shane Black, Randall Wallace, John Turman, and Melissa Rosenberg. Films: WEIGHT OF THE WORLD by Jenny Goddard and EULOGY MAKER by Leslie Langee.

May 26, 2012

Academy Award-winning director Sydney Pollack (Out of Africa, Tootsie, The Way We Were) and NYPD Blue and Deadwood creator David Milch discuss the inspiration behind creating classic film and television characters. Followed by the suspenseful short film The Lab by writer/director Ryan Scheer, about two young boys whose summer afternoon in the woods goes horribly awry.

Jun 2, 2012

Curb Your Enthusiasm and Seinfeld writer/producer Alec Berg and Bridesmaids director and Freaks and Geeks creator Paul Feig pull back the curtain to show how they create comedy that resonates with us all. Followed by the hilarious short film Spit by writer/director Benjamin Hayes. Paul will never have his first kiss until he overcomes his fear of saliva.

Jun 9, 2012

The creators behind the explosions Con Air, Gone In Sixty Seconds, Hulk, Zombieland and Machete debate what makes a great action movie. Followed by the riveting short film SOLD by writer/director John Irwin. A young investigative journalist goes undercover and is captured into a human trafficking ring.

Jun 16, 2012

TV mega-hit Everybody Loves Raymond creator Phil Rosenthal discusses the (not so) universal language of comedy in his documentary Exporting Raymond with Kiss Kiss Bang Bang writer/director Shane Black. Followed by the charming Danish short film First Anders by writer/director Kristian Ussing Anderson about a well-meaning, bookish father who attempts to teach his artistic and bullied young son a valuable lesson.

Jun 23, 2012

The challenges of making true stories compelling on the screen are discussed by Oscar®-nominated Scott Silver (The Fighter), Oscar®-nominated Nicholas Kazan (Reversal of Fortune), Pamela Gray (Conviction), Oscar®-winner Ron Howard (Apollo 13). Followed by Overnight Stay, directed by Daniela Sherer. A woman recalls a horrific night in Krakow where she experienced the best and worst of human intentions.

Jun 30, 2012

On the next On Story, Bones creator Hart Hanson and Veronica Mars and Party Down creator Rob Thomas discuss the creation of a successful TV series. Followed by the short films 0507 by Ben and Chris Blaine and Smile by Lauren Elmer.

Jul 14, 2012

On the next On Story, the inspiration behind such classic films as Edward Scissorhands, Toy Story, and Up is discussed by Academy Award winning Pixar director John Lasseter and screenwriter Caroline Thompson followed by the short Playing Ghost directed by Bianca Ansems.

Jul 21, 2012

Oscar®-winning writer Ted Tally gives a provocative look at the adaptation and production of the highly acclaimed film The Silence of the Lambs. Tally covers it all: working with director Jonathan Demme, anticipating Jodie Foster's Oscar® win, the changed ending for the world's most famous cannibal, and more. Followed by Thomas Ward's haunting short, In the Middle, about a small-town waitress in the middle of nowhere waiting for her shift to end.

Jul 28, 2012

From THE GRADUATE and CATCH-22 to Saturday Night Live and Get Smart, iconic comedic and distinctly American writer, director, and actor Buck Henry recalls his long and storied career in Hollywood. Followed by the heartwarming story of a failed ukulele player and her talking puppet dog, THE BALLAD OF FRIDAY AND JUNE by writer/director Tate English.

Aug 11, 2012

Writer/director Rodrigo Garcia discusses the influence of his father, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Gabriel García Márquez, and the complexities and flaws that form nuanced characters in THE GODFATHER, CAPOTE, and his own MOTHER AND CHILD and IN TREATMENT. Followed by the harrowing Spanish short WHO LASTS LONGER by writer/director Gregorio Muro in which the bond between a mother and her son are tragically tested.

Aug 18, 2012

The writers behind the beloved animated classics KUNG FU PANDA 1 & 2, King of the Hill, and THE IRON GIANT discuss the comedy, action, and emotion that go into creating the worlds and characters that appeal to audiences of all ages. And then enter the magical world of the short film DREAMGIVER by director/producer Tyler Carter. What fanciful adventures happen after we go to sleep?

Aug 25, 2012

Thriller master writer/director Shane Black (KISS KISS BANG BANG, LETHAL WEAPON) discusses the critical elements of a taut, suspense-filled movie - raising stakes, unexpected reversals, and satisfying payoffs - using examples from such classics as ROCKY, THE LONG KISS GOODNIGHT, and LA FEMME NIKITA. Followed by the apocalyptic short film BLIND SPOT by writer/director Matthew Nayman.

Apr 20, 2013

Legendary television writer Chris Carter reveals the secret behind the creation and success of The X-Files. Lost and "Prometheus" writer, Damon Lindelof, speaks with Carter on how his use of the paranormal and search for truth have become staples of popular culture. Followed by Todd Somodevilla and Marysia Makowska's surreal short film, "Sea Pavilion".

Apr 27, 2013

The writers behind WANTED, "The Bourne Ultimatum", "Con Air", and "Snitch" discuss how they use action scenes to further the plot, convey tension, and build toward a satisfying climax. Followed by Lucas Martell's animated short film, PIGEON: IMPOSSIBLE, about a trained CIA agent faced with an unexpected sudden threat to national security.

May 4, 2013

The writers of re-imagined classics & popular franchises such as GHOST, CHARLIE & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, TWINS and SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN deliberate how to keep stories fresh while staying true to the original. Paired with Spencer and Lloyd Harvey's short film JACK & JILL, a fresh take on the classic nursery rhyme that follows a young Australian girl who finds an inventive way to contact her father, a WWII soldier stationed in New Guinea.

May 11, 2013

Professional horror writers explore how great drama lies at the core of the most frightening films, and discuss the style and techniques used to invoke fear, suspense and thrills that linger long after the credits roll. Followed by Lynne Vincent McCarthy's STRANGEFACE, a haunting and suspenseful short film about a peculiar and defiant young girl who unexpectedly finds companionship.

May 18, 2013

The creative minds behind the films THOR, THE AVENGERS, THE INCREDIBLE HULK, THE GREEN LANTERN, X-MEN: THE LAST STAND, and X-MEN: FIRST CLASS divulge the complexities of heroes & villains. Followed by John Mitchell's SUPER POWERS, a short film about a husband & wife who try to salvage their love-life by dressing as superheroes, and find they save more than their marriage when forced out of their home in costume.

May 25, 2013

Damon Lindelof discusses his hand in some of the most celebrated and scrutinized works of science fiction over the past five years, and how much of their success is attributed to writing stories that leave a lot up to one's imagination. Accompanied by Dean Loxton's improvised short film, METRO 7 BIS about a woman's encounter with a handsome stranger in Paris, only to find their meeting was hardly by chance.

Jun 1, 2013

James Franco reveals his unique experience working on 127 HOURS, including his faith in director Danny Boyle's vision, and the collaborative approach from cast and crew to fulfill the tension needed to capture this true and tantalizing story. Followed by the allegorical short film, VOICE OVER, directed by Martin Rosete, about a few extreme situations that literally take your breath away.

Jun 7, 2013

Larry Wilmore, the Senior Black Correspondent on The Daily Show and creator of The Bernie Mac Show reflects upon different forms of comedy, his own comic influences, and always looking to maximize comedic potential. Followed by two short films about courage and endurance: Chris Bourke and Kevin Harger's LOVE, EMILY, shadowing young love and how to best navigate its awkward terrain, and Andrea Gomez's 036, measuring the fortitude and grit required to survive the paper-pushing, no-nonsense depths of cubicle number 036.

Jun 14, 2013

The voices behind THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, BRIDESMAIDS, and RACHEL GETTING MARRIED deliberate how the most impressionable characters - both good and evil - are compelling because of their flaws, complexities, and personal truths. Accompanied by the short film, MENTIROSO by writer/director Will Shipley about trailing a young boy whose incessant lies are almost as far-fetched as an astonishing encounter with the most beautiful girl in town.

Jun 21, 2013

The screenwriters behind NEVER BEEN KISSED, SAFE HAVEN, GOING THE DISTANCE and HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU contemplate the important balance of relationship, conflict and originality when creating romantic comedies. Followed by the short film, DO OVER by David Fabelo, illustrating several failed judicious attempts of mastering a first date.

Jun 28, 2013

Brian Hegleland, the creative force behind 42, L.A. Confidential, Mystic River, and A Knights Tale, shares his experience as a screenwriter, director, and producer, along with the ups, down, and left turns of the filmmaking industry. Accompanied by the short film, Hector is Gonna Kill Nate, from Ari Issler about a basketball student that rolls into his High School gym looking for revenge.

Jul 5, 2013

David McGee discusses adapting Finding Neverland and Life of Pi, and how he approached translating such imaginative worlds for screen. Followed by, The Return, Jeremy Mackie's short film about a college graduate that is literally scared off the screen of his first job.

Apr 18, 2014

Vince Gilligan, creator of the AMC hit series Breaking Bad, reflects upon the show's hyper-serialized storytelling as well as his inspirations and influences. Accompanied by Victor Nores' short film, Euthanas Inc.

Apr 25, 2014

Frank Darabont, writer and director of such classics as The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile and The Mist, discusses adapting works by Stephen King and keeping his characters at the core of the story. Followed by Jeffrey DeChausse's short film, Anniversario, trailing a woman's visit to her two favorite hairdressers on the day of her 45th wedding anniversary for what becomes the most important makeover of their lives.

May 3, 2014

An iconic example of its genre, Alien's tension, pacing, and craftsmanship are deconstructed by veteran screenwriters John August and Ashley Miller. Accompanied by Jason Mann and Frieda Luk's mystical short film, Delicacy, following a culinary connoisseur and his loyal chef as they dangerously navigate into the unknown with hopes to obtain a rare treat.

May 9, 2014

House of Cards creator, Beau Willimon, discusses writing for Netflix, working with David Fincher, and delving into the psychology of narrative power struggles. Artiz Moreno's short film, Colera, follows with an ominous glimpse of a town that decides to take the law into their own hands, without considering the consequences.

May 16, 2014

Rian Johnson, Richard Kelly, and Roberto Orci, masters of weaving time travel into film, dissect the elements that make for a believable "operating system" when writing a comprehensible screenplay timeline. A Conversation About Cheating with my Time Traveling Future Self follows, with one man's attempt to better his life by traveling back in time to offer himself advice.

May 23, 2014

Callie Khouri reflects upon her experience working with Ridley Scott and writing the classic female-driven-buddy film, Thelma and Louise. Followed by Avram Dodson's short film, Pistachio Milk, a coming of age tale about a young suitor using only his wits and a bottle of pistachio milk to pursue his love interest.

May 30, 2014

The Clint Eastwood/David Peoples classic Unforgiven is deconstructed by Into the West's Kirk Ellis and Apaloosa's Robert Knott as they explore its gritty action, ambiguous morality, and the tried-and-true tropes of its genre. Christian Baker's short film, The Well, follows suit, trailing a young Civil War soldier stationed alone on the US/Mexico faced with nothing but his own demons.

Jun 6, 2014

Men in Black writer, Ed Solomon, explores the genesis of the movie and its journey from pre-production through post. Solomon documents his experiences getting fired and re-hired on the project, the evolution of the story, and working with the cast and crew.

Jun 13, 2014

Ray McKinnon, creator of the Sundance Channel's breakout hit, Rectify, details how to capture the personality of a culture through establishing strong characters, tone, and atmosphere. The short film Spanola Pepper Sauce Company follows, directed by McKinnon and written by Graham Gordy, suggesting there's more brewing in Spanola, AK than just its fine pepper sauce cooking.

Jun 20, 2014

Ron Nyswaner recounts the social impact of his screenplay Philadelphia, a bold film released during a delicate time in history. Followed by Oliver Kember's Puzzled, about a young boy whose only chance at survival on the playground is to outsmart the other children.

Jun 27, 2014

Frank Pierson's Academy Award® winning Dog Day Afternoon elevates the classic crime genre through its exploration of textured characters and rationale. Screenwriters Robin Swicord (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) and Peter Craig (The Town) examine the story's masterful reveal of information and its surprising, but inevitable and honest conclusion.

Jul 5, 2014

Shane Black (Kiss Kiss Bang Bang) and Brian Helgeland (LA Confidential) discuss the modern day Neo Noir - a genre-bending response to the Film Noirs of the 1940s and 50s - and dissect the basic styles, impulses, themes, and tones that embrace this form of storytelling.

Jul 12, 2014

Filmmaking legends Paul Thomas Anderson and Jonathan Demme pay tribute to Robert Downey Sr.'s cult classic Greaser's Palace. Next, Andrew Napier's short film, Grandma's Not a Toaster, where a whiskey-guzzling mother-to-be aims to enlist her neurotic brother in attempt to thieve from their ailing grandmother's fortune.

Jul 19, 2014

In this second On Story® installation featuring Paul Thomas Anderson and Jonathan Demme, the duo look back on the vision, style, influences, and creative passion for Demme's The Silence of the Lambs, Stop Making Sense, Rachel Getting Married and Something Wild.

Apr 18, 2015

Mad Men creator, Matthew Weiner, dissects the culture, identity, and status quo of the show, and the psychology behind its beloved antihero, Don Draper. Followed by Faraday Okoro's short film, Full Windsor, about a young boy's quest to preserve a meaningful piece of his past.

Apr 25, 2015

True Detective director, Cary Fukunaga, and Fargo creator, Noah Hawley, discuss the rise of the television anthology series and how to execute a compelling balance of plot, character, and structure within the bounds of one season. Followed by Elaine Poon's short film, Entrain about Laurent, a young man who absorbed in his own world, draws the attention of a fellow train passenger who shares his interest in rhythm, despite their obvious language barrier.

May 2, 2015

John Ridley reflects on his beginnings and the inspirations that have shaped his approach to screenwriting, with a special look into his journey adapting the Academy Award®-winning script for 12 Years a Slave. Accompanied by Alex Clark's short film, Siren, about two ambulance paramedics faced with an emergency that's out of this world.

May 9, 2015

Mick Garris (Masters of Horror) and Alvaro Rodriguez (Machete) deconstruct the shock, suspense, and subtleties of David Cronenberg's The Fly and how his execution has contributed to the legitimacy and intellect of the horror genre.

May 16, 2015

Terry George (writer/director Hotel Rwanda; writer In the Name of the Father) reflects on the art of fictionalizing fact and placing ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances as a storytelling vehicle. Followed by Dean Loxton's short film, Under, about a train operator struggling to deal with a traumatic event and finding solace in an unsuspecting way.

May 23, 2015

Beau Willimon (creator House of Cards) and Eli Attie (writer The West Wing) debate politically- driven narratives, power struggles, and dramatizing the truths and fictions that comprise ideologically-charged stories. Accompanied by Topher Field's short film, The Hustle, offering a glimpse inside a swindler's artful technique and deception.

May 30, 2015

Jay Duplass (writer/director Jeff Who Lives at Home, The Puffy Chair) recollects his journey with brother Mark Duplass onto the DIY indie film scene, along with their specific approach to storytelling. Followed by Future Hero, the story of a father, son, and a time-travelling killer android, in a short film by Ramin Serry.

Jun 6, 2015

Danny Rubin, co-writer of "Groundhog Day," deconstructs the film's progression from script to screen and talks about his collaboration with the film's co-writer and director Harold Ramis.

Jun 13, 2015

Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, co-writers of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, discuss re-imagining the popular sci-fi franchise and their delicate approach to depicting the protagonist's journey.

Jun 20, 2015

Tom Schulman, writer of Dead Poet's Society, deconstructs the story's journey from script to screen, along with his unique working relationships on set with Robin Williams and director Peter Weir.

Jun 27, 2015

Tommy Lee Jones, writer, director, and protagonist of The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada, reflects on the making of the film, accompanied by some of his cast and crew. Followed by Roy Rutngamlug's short film, Formosa, TX, about a first generation Asian-American's fleeting encounter with an out-of-towner who stumbles upon his family's diner.

Jul 4, 2015

Scott Frank (Get Shorty, Out of Sight) reflects on his diverse career writing thrillers and pulp films, and his approach to developing complex characters in search of their identity.

Jul 11, 2015

Writers from the hit show Justified discuss adapting Elmore Leonard's short story for television and the evolution of the show's tone, rhythm, and setting.

Jul 18, 2015

Peter Gould, writer, producer, and director of Breaking Bad and co-creator of its spinoff Better Call Saul discusses shifting gears, schemes, and swindles within the world of Saul Goodman pre-Walter White.

Apr 16, 2016

John Singleton, the youngest and first African American filmmaker to win an Academy Award® for his work on Boyz N the Hood, discusses his process, influences, and inspirations, from the work of acclaimed playwright August Wilson to pioneering directors Spike Lee and Federico Fellini.

Apr 23, 2016

Perhaps one of the most influential contributors to the landscape of situational comedies and progressive writing in Hollywood, Norman Lear transformed a genre known for play-it-safe humor into a platform for how Americans experience social issues. In this week's On Story, Lear remembers a few of his favorite episodes and how he created some of the most beloved characters in the history of television.

Apr 30, 2016

Nicole Perlman (Guardians of the Galaxy) and Angela Kang (The Walking Dead) explore navigating a male-dominated industry as female genre writers. The women discuss tackling comic book adaptations, the importance of character development, and the fine line between staying true to the spirit of the source material while also breathing new life into preexisting storylines.

May 7, 2016

Rodrigo Garcia, whose credits include Albert Nobbs, Nine Lives, Mother and Child, and most recently, Last Days in the Desert, contemplates the importance of writing honest relationships in his work, and the visceral connection audiences have with stories about family.

May 14, 2016

Robert Mark Kamen looks back on his long-time working relationship with Luc Besson and his approach to writing description, violence, and well-developed characters in films such as The Fifth Element, The Transporter, and the Taken franchise. Followed by Luke Patton's short film, Foos Your Daddy?, about a young man's turning point with his overbearing father on the day he leaves for college.

May 21, 2016

Christos and Ruth Fletcher Gage discuss the process of adapting the Marvel comic Daredevil for television. The duo break down the juxtaposition of brute realism and the moral complexity of Daredevil's characters, along with how they navigated the show's unconventional story structure in the writers room.

May 28, 2016

Comedy titan Carl Reiner looks back on creating The Dick Van Dyke Show, how the show evolved over the course of its five seasons, and the collaborative efforts of the writers and actors involved. Reiner recalls special moments from behind the scenes and, ultimately, how the creative vision was translated to the screen.

Jun 4, 2016

Creator/director/producer/star Issa Rae discusses the unique challenges that surround creating independent webseries, the freedoms that come with doing it your own way, and how to navigate the growing sensation of developing original online content. Followed by The Unexpected, a short webisode from The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl.

Jun 11, 2016

Chris Cooper, the Academy Award® winning Best Supporting Actor for his role in the comedy-drama Adaptation, discusses this acting career in both film and television. Cooper looks back on how he managed to navigate through his roles in iconic films such as Lone Star, Adaptation, American Beauty, Seabiscuit, and August: Osage County among many others.

Jun 18, 2016

Screenwriter Andrew Kevin Walker dissects his bleak thriller masterpiece, Se7en and working with director David Fincher to create the cult classic film.

Jun 25, 2016

Writer/Director Gary Ross discusses his film trajectory from co-writing the iconic film Big to approaching and adapting Seabiscuit on screen as well as working on historically depicting his new film Free State of Jones starring Matthew McConaughey.

Jul 2, 2016

Producer/Emmy®-award winning actress, America Ferrera talks about her early roles in film and television including the hit show Ugly Betty, Real Women Have Curves, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and working with Ryan Piers Williams on the independent film The Dry Land.

Jul 9, 2016

Writer/Director/Producer Charles Burnett shares his career development process in narrative and documentary filmmaking with Killer of Sheep (1978), his seminal film, which was definitive in highlighting African American cultural experience. Burnett's films Killer of Sheep and To Sleep with Anger were both added to the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress for being culturally significant.

Jul 16, 2016

Director John Lee Hancock and writer Kelly Marcel discuss how the script for Saving Mr. Banks was successfully transformed onto the screen using heavily stylized elements, and musical cues from the classic film Mary Poppins to depict the life of author PL Travers during the 1960's.

Jul 23, 2016

Writer/director Jason Reitman, whose credits include Thank You for Smoking, Up in the Air, Juno, and most recently the TV series Casual, discusses his journey from novice filmmaker to indie stalwart.

Apr 15, 2017

In this episode, award-winning writer/director Jeff Nichols talks about bringing a highly charged true story to the screen and finding the personal connection to Richard and Mildred Loving – apolitical people at the center of the landmark 1967 civil rights decision of the U.S. Supreme Court to invalidate laws prohibiting interracial marriage.

Apr 22, 2017

Screenwriter Justin Marks shares the bear necessities on updating the classic Disney story to the modern screen. Drawing from influences like Westerns, the New York City black out, and more, this episode takes audiences through the jungle and to the beloved wolf pack that raised Mowgli from a cub to a boy.

Apr 29, 2017

From Arrested Development’s Buster Bluth to Veep’s bag man, actor Tony Hale discusses meeting audience’s expectations, getting into character, making out with Liza Minnelli, and the collaborative environment of comedy.

May 6, 2017

Writer and producer Marta Kauffman discusses "Friends" and "Grace and Frankie."

May 13, 2017

John Patrick Shanley holds a unique position as both playwright and screenwriter. The writer behind Moonstruck, Doubt, and others shares how he pulls from real life and makes every action count toward story.

May 20, 2017

With Saturday Night Live and the movies Sisters and This is 40 in her credits, Paula Pell is the queen of comedy. In this episode, Pell talks about her background in theater, creating characters that stick, and drawing from a funny family.

May 27, 2017

As charming as any muppet, actor/writer Jason Segel relays how he was destined for the stage at an early age and how, from goofball to vampire puppet musical to full frontal nudity, he’s formed a family of weirdos in film and television.

Jun 3, 2017

In this episode, writer Aaron Covington discusses how he and co-writer/director Ryan Coogler came up with the idea for a unique and personal spin on the Rocky Balboa story and in the process created a new legend.

Jun 10, 2017

Inarguably one of the greatest storytellers in Hollywood, filmmaker Billy Wilder’s classic films include Double Indemnity, Sabrina, Sunset Boulevard, Some Like it Hot, The Apartment, and more. This episode dissects several of his films to analyze what makes his filmmaking style so unique and relevant to audiences today.

Jun 17, 2017

From Private Benjamin to Something’s Gotta Give, writer/director Nancy Meyers has created and championed some of the most memorable complicated women characters on the screen. In this episode she shares her career path and stories of her collaborations – with Goldie Hawn, Mel Gibson, and former husband and writing partner Charles Shyer.

Jun 24, 2017

Heavily-influenced by politics and family, the screenwriter of In the Name of the Father, My Left Foot, In America, and more discusses his efforts to do justice to Irish fathers, and translate Irish situations and accents for American audiences.

Jul 1, 2017

In this episode, screenwriter Jose Rivera discusses his approach to bringing Che Guevara’s story to the screen, balancing Guevara’s political awakening with his road trip adventures, and working with director Walter Salles and actor Gael Garcia Bernal.

Jul 8, 2017

Screenwriter Mark L. Smith discusses adapting The Revenant from book to screen, working with Alejandro Iñárritu, and getting that famous bear attack right. For their work on this stunning - and freezing - historical picture, Iñárritu won the Academy Award(r) for Best Director, Emmanual Lubezki won for Best Cinematography, and DiCaprio won his first award for Best Actor.

Jul 15, 2017

The Bobby half of the Farrelly brothers team that brought us There’s Something About Mary, Kingpin, and Dumb and Dumber talks about improv, keeping the material fresh, and what makes comedy funny.

Jul 22, 2017

The writers behind Red Eye, The X-Files, Disturbia, and Shut In weigh in on the crucial elements for those psychological thrillers that keep you up all night; namely putting regular people into horrifying scenarios – and hopefully getting them out in one piece.

Jul 29, 2017

The filmmakers behind Sense and Sensibility, The Jane Austen Book Club, and The Lizzie Bennet Diaries discuss the timelessness and relate-ability of Jane Austen’s characters, from the jealousies, the romances, the desire to improve one’s status, and, of course, Mr. Darcy.

Aug 5, 2017

Producer Suzanne de Passe, screenwriter Bill Wittliff, and crew share stories about the making of Lonesome Dove, the movie adapted from the NYT bestselling novel by Larry McMurtry. From Tommy Lee Jones doing his own stunts to cattle stampedes, cowboy hats with personality to confounding Hollywood executives, this episode is full of entertaining stories about the made-for-TV movie that almost didn't happen.

Aug 12, 2017

With hundreds of film and television credits to his name, including Better Call Saul, A Mighty Wind, and Six Feet Under, second generation actor Ed Begley Jr. talks about what he looks for when choosing new projects, finding the pain in a character, and working with Christopher Guest and other comedy legends.

Aug 19, 2017

Parks and Recreation and Master of None writer Alan Yang talks about making up for lost time, writing for the Harvard Lampoon, and putting stories from his personal life into the show.

Aug 26, 2017

The producer behind Raiders of the Lost Ark, Back to the Future, The Sixth Sense, and more talks about starting his career with Spielberg, Coppola, and Lucas, the creativity in producing, and working with writers.

Apr 14, 2018

Director and actress Greta Gerwig talks about her theatrical beginnings and how she came to write and direct "Lady Bird."

Apr 21, 2018

Writer, director and producer Keenen Ivory Wayans talks about his path to Hollywood and how "In Living Color" helped pave the way for many artists and projects.

Apr 28, 2018

Academy Award-winning writer-director Kenneth Lonergan compares screenwriting with playwriting and talks about being open to mistakes.

May 5, 2018

Screenwriter Eric Heisserer talks about "Arrival," working with director Denis Villeneuve and the challenges of writing a sci-fi story about love and loss.

May 12, 2018

Screenwriter Dan Gilroy discusses the evolution of "Nightcrawler," working with Denzel Washington, and the challenges and benefits of being part of a Hollywood-successful family.

May 19, 2018

Producer Gale Anne Hurd discusses her career, including working with Roger Corman and James Cameron.

May 26, 2018

Director David Lowery and writer Toby Halbrooks reinvent "Pete's Dragon" and discuss the difference between making indie films versus big budget movies.

Jun 2, 2018

Writer and producer Misha Green discusses her experience as a first-time showrunner, and she talks about having to say goodbye to a story before it's finished.

Jun 9, 2018

"Twin Peaks" co-creator Mark Frost talks about the show's impact and his collaboration with David Lynch.

Jun 16, 2018

Scott Alexander talks about developing and writing "The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story."

Jun 23, 2018

Actor and director Robert Townsend's career spans 30 years in front of and behind the camera.

Jun 30, 2018

Saddle up yer horses with legendary writer/director Walter Hill and Oscar® nominated screenwriter Scott Frank as they explore the great quintessential Western genre. In this episode, Hill and Frank discuss the art of writing the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Jul 7, 2018

In this episode, Bloodline’s co-creator Todd A. Kessler talks about the genesis and development of the popular Netflix series. With their storied, dynastic image of small business success and solid moral fiber, the Rayburns seem like the very picture of the American dream.

Jul 14, 2018

In this episode, creator, showrunner, and producer Courtney A. Kemp discusses the power dynamics in the television industry, the writers room, and a well-crafted story. With credits that includes The Good Wife, The Bernie Mac Show, Justice, and creating the critically acclaimed gritty New York drama Power, Kemp knows her way around a successful TV show.

Jul 21, 2018

With a huge list of characters, centuries’ worth of mythology, and battles between gods—all within the confines of a television series, adapting Neil Gaiman’s seminal novel American Gods was no small feat. In this episode, Season 1 writer, co-showrunner, Michael Green will walk through the series’ script, discussing topics like staying true to and expanding the world that Gaiman created.

Jul 28, 2018

In this episode, the screenwriters behind Arrival, Kubo and the Two Strings, and I Love Dick discuss book-to-film adaptations and translating themes and literary devices to the screen. The art of writing them is as advantageous as it is demanding especially within the constraints of a 90-minute film.

Aug 4, 2018

In this episode, award-winning screenwriter, producer, and director Noah Hawley, the man behind some of TV’s best dramatic series, Fargo and Legion explores the creation and execution of a limited series, writing across mediums, and making adaptations your own.

Aug 11, 2018

In this episode, co-writer of the Academy Award® winning film, The Shape of Water discusses collaborating with genre director Guillermo del Toro on his initial idea for the film and the process of writing the dark fantasy world del Toro envisioned for the film.

Aug 18, 2018

Join Snowpiercer co-writer Kelly Masterson as he dissects the story’s journey from graphic novel to script-to-screen. Masterson will reference specific scenes from the film—with clips projected throughout—and discuss writing for a multinational audience, the writer/director relationship with Joon-ho Bong, writing through language barriers, and the layered messages throughout the film.

Aug 25, 2018

Academy-Award® nominated actor Woody Harrelson and director/producer Rob Reiner discuss how the bio-pic, LBJ came to life with actor Woody Harrelson who portrays the president following the Kennedy assassination in 1963.

Apr 13, 2019

Television producer, actor, comic and writer Larry Wilmore discusses comedy in front of and behind the camera.

Apr 20, 2019

Linda Woolverton, the first woman to write an animated feature for Disney, talks about her work, including "Beauty and the Beast," "The Lion King," "Alice in Wonderland" and "Maleficent."

Apr 27, 2019

Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, writers of "Avengers: Infinity War," discuss juggling a massive ensemble cast and multiple storylines.

May 4, 2019

"A Quiet Place" screenwriters Scott Beck and Bryan Woods talk about creating tension and telling a story with little dialogue.

May 11, 2019

"Westworld" writers and producers Bridget Carpenter and Carly Wray talk about research, what to do when the story conflicts with authenticity and crafting a world that mirrors the past.

May 18, 2019

Writer and filmmaker Peter Hedges talks about his process of writing novels and screenplays, from "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" to "Ben Is Back."

May 25, 2019

Academy Award® nominated writer and director Tony Gilroy has built a career on making thought-provoking thrillers including the Bourne franchise, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and Michael Clayton. In this episode, Gilroy discusses his long career and what it takes to make a living as a writer.

Jun 1, 2019

Comic and writer Ali LeRoi, co-creator of "Everybody Hates Chris," talks about writing, directing and creating for television.

Jun 8, 2019

Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber discuss "The Disaster Artist" and its adaptation to film.

Jun 15, 2019

Producer and director Roger Corman talks about independent filmmaking and his work, which includes more than 500 film credits.

Jun 22, 2019

Documentary filmmakers Chapman and Maclain Way talk about their Emmy Award-winning documentary "Wild Wild Country."

Jun 29, 2019

Writers Tess Morris and Scott Neustadter discuss the impact of Nora Ephron's films and the impact her writing has had on their own work.

Jul 6, 2019

Writer, producer and showrunner Graham Yost's hits include "Speed," "Broken Arrow," "Justified" and "The Americans."

Jul 13, 2019

Writer and author Pamela Ribon discusses the Disney films "Moana" and "Ralph Breaks the Internet" as well as the television show "Samantha Who?".

Jul 20, 2019

Comedy writer and performer Kevin McDonald discusses writing sketch comedy and performing stand-up and improv.

Jul 27, 2019

Actress and comic Sasheer Zamata talks about sketch comedy writing and acting on "Saturday Night Live."

Aug 3, 2019

Dana Gould talks about writing for "The Simpsons" and his role as creator and co-executive producer of "Stan Against Evil."

Apr 11, 2020

Craig Mazin, Emmy Award-winning creator of the HBO miniseries "Chernobyl," talks about the creative process behind his account of the 1986 nuclear accident.

Apr 18, 2020

Lulu Wang, writer and director of "The Farewell," talks about the autobiographical story of her family's decision to plan a wedding instead of telling her grandmother the truth about her terminal illness.

Apr 25, 2020

Series co-creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss explain the process of adapting George R. R. Martin's books into the HBO series "Game of Thrones."

May 2, 2020

Writer Sofía Álvarez discusses the process of adapting the young adult novel "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" into a romantic comedy for Netflix.

May 9, 2020

Catherine Reitman talks about her acting career in film and television, as well as her transition to the role of creator/writer/star of the comedy series "Workin' Moms."

May 16, 2020

Writer and producer Felicia D. Henderson discusses her 25-year television career, navigating the shift from writer to showrunner and exploring relationships through film.

May 23, 2020

Screenwriters Michael Werwie and Guinevere Turner talk about the challenges of writing compelling true crime stories while also respecting the people affected by the crimes.

May 30, 2020

Writer Megan Amram talks about developing characters whom audiences care about, emotion behind humor, and her web series "An Emmy for Megan."

Jun 6, 2020

Writer Virgil Williams talks about adapting work for the screen, his Academy Award nomination and the power of routine.

Jun 13, 2020

"Veep" showrunner David Mandel talks about developing characters for "Veep" and bringing the story to a close.

Jun 20, 2020

Screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan recalls the creative process behind some of his films, which include "The Big Chill" and "The Empire Strikes Back."

Jun 27, 2020

"GLOW" co-creators Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch talk about adapting the real-life "GLOW: Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling" as a fictional series.

Jul 4, 2020

Academy Award-winning screenwriter Ron Bass talks about his work, which includes "Rain Man," "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "Sleeping With the Enemy."

Apr 3, 2021

Writer, director and producer Gina Prince-Bythewood discusses her character-driven work in "The Old Guard," "Love & Basketball" and "Beyond the Lights."

Apr 10, 2021

Academy Award-winning screenwriter Akiva Goldsman discusses "A Beautiful Mind," "A Time to Kill," "Star Trek" and "Titans," and the role of personal experience and self-exploration in developing characters.

Apr 17, 2021

Writer and director Brenda Chapman talks about what influenced her writing in the animated classics "The Lion King," "The Prince of Egypt" and "Brave."

Apr 24, 2021

Writer Kevin Willmott discusses balancing messages of social justice with entertainment, working with Spike Lee and writing "BlacKkKlansman," "CSA: Confederate States of America" and "Da 5 Bloods."

May 1, 2021

Writer and producer Damon Lindelof talks about creating the television series "Watchmen," "The Leftovers" and "Lost," mashing up genre conventions, adapting a graphic novel and reassembling a story.

May 8, 2021

Writer and producer Liz Hannah discusses her career, from her first screenplay "The Post" to the true crime series "Mindhunter."

May 15, 2021

From "Ed Wood" to "Dolemite Is My Name," screenwriters Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski reflect on writing biopics about unconventional figures.

May 22, 2021

Author and screenwriter Gillian Flynn discusses writing in different mediums and adapting "Gone Girl," "Sharp Objects," "Widows" and "Utopia" for the screen.

May 29, 2021

Screenwriter and television producer Mara Brock Akil talks about writing and producing hundreds of television episodes, and creating "Girlfriends" and "Being Mary Jane."

Jun 5, 2021

Producer and screenwriter John Logan talks about working in multiple storytelling mediums, writing for actors and bringing his vision to stage and screen.

Jun 12, 2021

Writers Akela Cooper and Owen Egerton discuss their love for the horror genre and inspirational moments from "Pumpkinhead" and "Night of the Living Dead."

Jun 19, 2021

"Barry" co-creators Alec Berg and Bill Hader talk about how they created an honest and convincing story about a bizarre anti-hero.

Jun 26, 2021

Screenwriter and playwright Kemp Powers, co-writer and co-director of "Soul" and "One Night in Miami," talks about adapting his own play and building a compelling narrative.

Jul 3, 2021

Writer Ed Solomon talks about the beginning of the writing process, when to pursue an idea and when to leave one behind, and finding the right state of mind for creativity.

May 28, 2022

Television creator Michael Schur discusses his role in creating and writing for "Parks and Recreation," "The Office" and "The Good Place."

Jun 4, 2022

Screenwriter Dave Callaham talks about the role of personal experience and self-exploration in the development of big budget movies.

Jun 11, 2022

Writers Jihan Crowther and Zach Baylin talk about tackling real-life events and how they translate on screen.

Jun 18, 2022

Writer David Koepp talks about jumping between genres and working on adaptations, collaborating with Steven Spielberg and writing "Carlito's Way," "Jurassic Park" and more.

Jul 2, 2022

Writer Brad Ingelsby, creator of "Mare of Easttown," talks about writing the small-town thriller.

Jul 9, 2022

Writer and director Craig Brewer talks about influences and personal experiences behind "Hustle & Flow" and "The Poor & Hungry" and working with producer Stephanie Allain.

Jul 16, 2022

Writer Derek Kolstad, creator of the John Wick franchise, talks about his career and how he weaves emotion and humanity into action set pieces.

Jul 23, 2022

Producer Stephanie Allain talks about "Boyz N the Hood," "Poetic Justice" and others, as well as how she uses her position to greenlight diverse stories that focus on underrepresented voices.

Jul 30, 2022

Academy Award-winning screenwriter Eric Roth ("Forrest Gump") discusses his process of adapting stories from beloved properties.

Aug 6, 2022

Writer and director Michael Sarnoski dissects writing, constructing and managing the overall production scope of his directorial debut, "Pig."

Aug 13, 2022

Tony Award-winner Stephen Karam talks about his directorial debut and adaptation of "The Humans."

Aug 20, 2022

"Miss Juneteenth" writer/director Channing Godfrey Peoples talks about her feature directorial debut and her work as an independent filmmaker.

Aug 27, 2022

Writer/creator/showrunner Glen Mazzara talks about his work on "The Shield" and "The Walking Dead" and how having multiple roles in television has developed his versatility as a storyteller.

Sep 3, 2022

Writer-director Elgin James talks about his personal process when directing, writing and scoring films and where his inspiration comes from for creating television shows.

Sep 10, 2022

Writer, director and producer Lisa Joy talks about creating "Westworld," and the discovery of humanity in non-traditional narratives.

Apr 22, 2023

Comedy writer Stephen Merchant talks about co-creating the BBC original series "The Office," creating relatable characters and how he found comedy inspiration from drama.

Apr 29, 2023

Producer and showrunner Joe Wiseman talks about his work behind the American adaptation of the BBC series "Ghosts," including finding the cast and the process of recreating the story for an American audience.

May 6, 2023

Writer-director Nikyatu Jusu talks about her early short films and the process behind creating her debut feature "Nanny."

May 13, 2023

Action writer Chris Fedak talks about writing compelling action that propels a story forward.

May 20, 2023

Writer-director James Gray talks about the evolution of his creative process and career, from his first feature "Little Odessa" to "Armageddon Time."

May 27, 2023

Creator and showrunner Graham Roland talks about the development of "Dark Winds" and the importance of creating a show through a Native American lens.

Jun 3, 2023

Academy Award-winner Dede Gardner, president of Plan B Entertainment, talks about her success as a producer in Hollywood.

Jun 10, 2023

Writer Andy Siara breaks down the time-bending structure of his science fiction romantic comedy "Palm Springs."

Jun 17, 2023

Writer and producer Lang Fisher, co-creator and showrunner of "Never Have I Ever," talks about the stories behind the coming-of-age comedy series.

Jun 24, 2023

Writer Edward Neumeier talks about writing science fiction and his classic films, such as "RoboCop" and "Starship Troopers."

Jul 1, 2023

Writers Liz Hannah and Michael Starrbury relay the delicate process of adapting a real-life story into a scripted television series.

Jul 8, 2023

A look inside the process of producing and writing for television with Rob Thomas, creator of "Veronica Mars" and co-creator of "Party Down."

Jul 15, 2023

Marc Bernardin and Beau DeMayo, writers of "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" and "Star Trek: Picard," discuss science fiction writing, world-building and bringing new ideas to the classic franchise.

Jul 22, 2023

Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Sarah Polley talks about her storytelling career and the film "Women Talking."

Jul 29, 2023

Director Darren Aronofsky reveals details about his unique approach to storytelling and his journey through cinema.

Apr 22, 2024

Joanna Calo delves into her experience sharing showrunning duties on "The Bear" with creator Christopher Storer, and crafting lovable characters that keep an audience invested.

Apr 29, 2024

"Lawmen: Bass Reeves" creator Chad Feehan and series directors Christina Alexandra Voros and Damian Marcano discuss their revival of the television Western.

May 6, 2024

Cord Jefferson discusses writing and directing his debut feature, "American Fiction."

May 18, 2024

One of this year’s most talked-about films, Past Lives is an achingly beautiful love story about lost chances. Hear from playwright turned filmmaker Celine Song on navigating the differences between writing for stage and screen, and how to connect emotionally with an audience.

May 25, 2024

Writing team Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski, alongside filmmaker Craig Brewer, discuss their collaboration on the hilarious, outrageous film "Dolemite Is My Name."

Jun 1, 2024

Join the creator of Severance to learn about the inspiration and creative process behind the grounded sci-fi thriller that has enthralled both audiences and critics, including writing an intriguing pilot, creating characters that audiences love, and keeping your viewers on their toes.

Jun 8, 2024

Producer Lauren Shuler Donner discusses launching the X-Men franchise, standing up for her story convictions and producing "Free Willy."

Jun 15, 2024

Writer, director and producer Gavin O'Connor discusses writing and directing his character-driven sports drama "Warrior."

Jun 22, 2024

Filmmaker Jeff Nichols explains his approach to adapting a photobook into a character-driven dissection of American subculture in the 1960s for his film "Bikeriders."

Jun 29, 2024

Karyn Kusama sheds light on her body of work, including "Girl Fight," "Jennifer's Body" and "Yellowjackets."

Jul 6, 2024

"Fargo" creator Noah Hawley talks about adapting feature films into episodic storytelling.

Jul 13, 2024

Screenwriter Max Borenstein talks about the challenges of creating a cinematic universe on film.

Jul 20, 2024

Screenwriter Katrin Benedikt discusses selling an idea, shepherding the script during production and collaborating with other writers on "Olympus Has Fallen" and "Expendables 3."

Jul 27, 2024

"Bridgerton" producer Alison Eakle and "Ratched" creator Evan Romansky talk about researching a period piece, making decision about accuracy versus creative liberties and marrying a modern audience with a bygone era.

Aug 3, 2024

Writer Lee Eisenberg talks about "The Office" episode "Dinner Party" and creating the reality-sitcom hybrid "Jury Duty."

Apr 26, 2025

Emmy Award-winning creator and showrunner Craig Mazin talks about adapting a video game into the episodic television drama series "The Last of Us."

May 3, 2025

Producer Kathleen Kennedy reflects on her career producing such films as "E.T.," "Back to the Future" and "Schindler's List" and shares stories and inspiration from her decades of experience.

May 10, 2025

Screenwriter and producer Clint Bentley and producer Monique Walton discuss the making of "Sing Sing," and how they developed a script inspired by a real life rehabilitation through the arts program.

May 17, 2025

Screenwriter Guinevere Turner discusses writing "American Psycho."

May 24, 2025

Creator and showrunner Tanya Saracho explains her creative process behind "Vida," the comedy-drama series that follows two sisters who return home after the death of their mother.

May 31, 2025

Screenwriter Mark L. Smith discusses writing "Twisters" and his process crafting plot-driven action and compelling conflicts.

Jun 7, 2025

Writer-producer Tony Rettenmaier and director Juel Taylor talk about "They Cloned Tyrone" and how they incorporated socio-political commentary into the science fiction, comedy-mystery film.

Jun 14, 2025

Writer and creator Ronald D. Moore discusses the process from concept to completion of "Battlestar Galactica."

Jun 21, 2025

Screenwriter Meg LeFauve outlines her path to Pixar and her work on "Inside Out" and "Inside Out 2."

Jun 28, 2025

Writers and creators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo discuss the process of crafting the historical drama "Shogun."

Jul 5, 2025

Writers Joe Lawson and Alison Flierl discuss writing "BoJack Horseman" and techniques behind exploring the human condition through an anthropomorphic horse.

Jul 12, 2025

Screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes discusses his process writing "Challengers."

Jul 19, 2025

Julie Plec, creator of the teen drama "The Vampire Diaries," talks about her process molding the series and its many spinoffs.

Jul 26, 2025

Director Gia Coppola reflects on working with the cast of "The Last Showgirl," and how they depicted an inspiring story of change and transformation.

Aug 2, 2025

Writer, producer and director Rian Johnson discusses the "Knives Out" franchise and the art of molding a great mystery.