Hollywood Unscripted

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May 24, 2022

01:03:24

D'Arcy Carden (The Good Place, Barry) details her path through a career she loves; going from a starry-eyed theater-loving kid, to a struggling NYC odd-job-juggling improv actor, to landing two of the best shows on television.

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Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Host & Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 09, 2021

01:01:12

Fran Kranz joins host Jenny Curtis in studio to talk about his screenwriting & directing debut, MASS.

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Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Host & Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jul 13, 2021

00:57:59

This interview was recorded in March 2021.

Actress Anna Camp joins Jenny Curtis and special co-host producer-actress Deborah Lee Smith to talk about her career and recent indie film Here Awhile.

Episode Timestamps:

6:33 – Anna explains that it’s hard being consistently type cast. With Here Awhile she was able to go outside her comfort zone and play a different type of character.

10:00 — Anna agreed to film Here Awhile almost immediately after reading. Deborah shares that the process was one of the fastest turn arounds to filming that she’s experienced.

11:44 – While preparing for the role in Here Awhile, Anna watched the documentary How to Die in Oregon.

15:13 – She speaks about the work of letting go, even with cameras all around you, and connecting to the spiritual side of the arts and acting. She calls acting a very self-aware art and the need to let go of the ego.

15:49 – 16:22 - AD Break

18:50 — Deborah shares how Anna takes pieces of her characters with her and what lead to them getting matching tattoos after making the film.

27:42 – Anna explores her path to becoming a professional actor and knowing she wanted to act since second grade.

31:02 — Anna explains why even though the play Equus was a pivot turning point in her career, she initially wasn’t eager for the role because of the required nudity.

34:12 — Anna reveals her top pick for her craziest moment in True Blood.

36:06 – 36:08 — Ad Break

37:05 — Anna talks about the evolution of the Pitch Perfect franchise.

40:47 — Anna speaks to the differences of working on a higher budget project like Pitch Perfect 3 compared to an independent film like Here Awhile. Many times lower budget projects create a more intimate and impactful setting for the crew and actors.

42:43 — Anna talks about her guest star roles on iconic television series such as the Office, How I Met Your Mother, Mad Men and the Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.

49:00 — Anna shares the acting moment that she’s most proud of, a scene from her performance in Here Awhile.

50:02 — Anna speaks about moving into the role of producer and projects that she’s excited to help get off the ground.

53:56 — The conversation shifts back to Here Awhile and Deborah shares what attracted her to the script.

56:01 — Anna expresses what being a storyteller means to her.

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Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Host & Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 08, 2021

00:32:13

Actress Sarah Jones talks with Jenny Curtis about her role in the series ‘For All Mankind’. She talks about the history of her performance career which started in dance before she successfully turned to acting with key roles in ensemble casts like Big Love. Her mission to pursue dynamic female roles prevented her from initially agreeing to play Tracy in ‘For All Mankind.’ This changed however following persuasion from show creator, Ron Moore. From there it was about developing the to maximize its trajectory, just as she had done with other roles she had played in shows like The Path and Damnation. Deeply grateful for a career in storytelling, she aims to draw upon the artistic process to connect with the characters she plays. If audiences can then appreciate her work, she considers this “icing on the cake.”

Episode Timestamps:

0:30 Host Jenny Curtis Introduces Sarah Jones

4:18 Sarah explains some of the origins of For All Mankind, and the exciting journey of starting a series, and developing a character for years.

7:10 Sarah initially turned Ron Moore down when he offered her this role in For All Mankind because she wanted to play a more interesting character.

8:40 Sarah speaks about a new character being like a new relationship, where you can’t stop thinking about it.

12:30 Her frustration with men never being asked 'how they do it all'.

16:20 How Sarah's role on Big Love led to her the major shift to pursue acting.

22:12 Sarah’s explains where the series’ Damnation was intended to go.

23:07 The trajectory her character took in The Path.

24:02 She talks more about her character's story arch in season 2 of For All Mankind, what it means to her to play a character that shows love to others, but also puts herself first.

29:33 Sarah shares what it means to have a life in storytelling. She feels privileged to be a part of the work she’s doing and enjoys that might also impact others.

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Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Host & Producer: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producer: Reenita Malhatra Hora

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 25, 2021

00:29:58

Prolific actor from stage and screen Tony Award winner Alfred Molina joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about his illustrious career in entertainment, including some favorite moments and memories, what it means to be an actor, and his latest movie, The Water Man.

Episode Timestamps:

1:13 - Jenny introduces Alfred and asks whether Alfred prefers going by ‘Alfred’ or ‘Fred’

1:33 - How does Fred define himself as an artist?

2:25 - How working with young actors inspires Fred

3:37 - A young journalist reminds Fred of a Q & A she attended, in which he gave her great advice

3:58- What’s the one piece of advice Fred would give to someone starting show business?

4:23 - Fred shares why he’s never content with his performances

5:32 - The Water Man & what drew Fred to the film

9:06 - Staying friends and working with David Oyelowo

12:10 - Actors (Fred) actually like line readings?!

12:52 - Working on the short film, Sam Did It

15:19 - The experience of creating physical comedy on The Imposters

17:21 - Being part of the ‘tribe’ of actors

18:10 - What does it mean to be an ‘actor’ or ‘actress’ and how has it evolved today?

20:25 - “Show Business Practitioners” & “Entertainment Specialists”

20:40 - Fred shares how his mother made him business cards when he graduated from acting school and why he couldn’t use them

22:08 - Listener questions: “What is a role that has impacted the person/actor you are today?”

23:34 - Listener question #2: “What is a role you still hope to play some day?”

25:12 - Does Fred still get nervous when he starts a job?

26:22 - Fred receives second hand advice on a new director

27:27 - Meeting Robert DeNiro

28:00 - What does it mean to Fred to have a life in storytelling?

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Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Host & Producer: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producers: Stuart Halperin & Reenita Malhatra Hora

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 05, 2021

00:53:31

Director, Writer, Producer Lee Daniels joins host Jenny Curtis and Special Guest Co-Host Dana Gourrier to talk about his life long drive towards entertainment and his latest movie, the United States Vs. Billie Holiday.

00:56 – Taking a moment to get to know this episode’s co-host, Dana Gourrier, a little better.

2:37 — Dana boils herself down in a nutshell as strong artist and shares the magical moment when you feel connected to the material you’re acting.

3:37 — One of Dana’s favorite things about acting is to one day be able to take everything she’s learned and transition into directing. This leads into the discussion Jenny and Dana are about to have with Lee Daniels, who directed Dana in the United States Vs. Billie Holiday.

4:09 — Jenny Curtis introduces Lee Daniels and welcomes him to the show.

4:34 — Lee Daniels discusses where he found his creative spark. For him, it began with when he watched Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at six years old. He describes the feeling of almost leaving his body as he imagined himself as Cinderella, and began directing his cousins and siblings.

6:06 — Lee describes discovering the theater section of his library at eight years old. He pulled out “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolf?” took it home and began directing his family in the parts.

7:29 — Dana asks if Lee felt a connection to his fellow high schoolers in theater. Like Dana, Lee felt some of that connection in high school, but he discovered a deeper comradery in the first few years of college theatre.

9:30 — Lee talks about always having been in entertainment and knowing from a young age that’s what he wanted to do.

9:58 — Lee had no money, lied to his mom about still being in college, and hopped on a bus to Los Angeles. He was homeless, living in the back of a church, and began directing small theatre projects. Some people get afraid of being a nomad, he wasn’t.

12:30 — Lee speaks about how he fell into owning his own at home nursing care agency.

13:56 — Lee shares how getting very rich young lead him down a path of using drugs. He went through a period of watching and holding many friends as they died and he attributes those experiences to where the depth of his creative work comes from.

16:06 — Lee talks about his abrupt transition of selling his nursing agency to become a production assistant for one of his nursing client’s son.

17:50 — Lee says that his work has been driven by honesty. He believes that his honest an true connection with the crew and actors shows in the work he creates.

18:08 — Dana and Lee talk about her role in the United States Vs. Billie Holiday and what it’s like being on one of Lee Daniel’s sets. Dana calls Lee an actor’s director.

22:00 — Lee addresses situations on set that now in hindsight he understands were feelings of prejudice against him and racism. At the time he wanted to believe the best of everyone, but recent events made him see those actions against him differently. He feels he had a lot of blinders on with people being prejudice against him for his race, because he was so focused on the discrimination and abuse he’d endured for being gay.

25:00 — Lee talks about working with up and coming actors. He loves working with first time actors because they really trust you as the director. A lot of actors are jaded by directors and editors who haven’t been able to capture the magic of their work when they are bringing their all.

29:24 — Lees speaks about a scene in the United States Vs. Billie Holiday the took a little more work to capture the magic.

32:05 — Lee opens up about the United States Vs Billie Holiday being the first film he directed completely sober. He believed it was important to respect Billie Holiday and their shared substance issues by abstaining and starting his own journey of recovery.

36:38 — Lee admits to second guessing his directorial choices more when sober.

38:23 — Lee explains the development process of the United States Vs. Billie Holiday.

42:28 — Lee speaks about confronting issues of racism in this country being a part of the spirit of the film. He had an awakening in the editing room as racism came to the forefront of the news cycle in America.

44:39 — The conversation pivots to discussing Lee Daniel’s films the Paperboy and Monsters Ball.

49:08 — Lee talks about how the United States Vs. Billie Holiday was shot on film with the intention of it being shown on the big screen. He’s grateful that Hulu is running the film, but he will miss being in a theatre and around people experiencing the film for the first time.

51:09 — Lee shares what it means to him to have a life in storytelling. He doesn’t know of another way to exist.

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Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Host & Producer: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 01, 2021

00:50:12

In honor of Women's History Month, we are re-issuing one of our favorite episodes: our conversation with prolific producer Stacey Sher; An incredible career retrospective, hosted by Jenny Curtis with special guest co-host Dana Gourrier. In a conversation focused on connection, passion, and the love of filmmaking, we hear stories and advice from Stacey and Dana.

Episode Topics:

• The introductions of our co-host and guest. We learn that in this special, we are joined by actress Dana Gourrier, who has previously worked with our guest for this episode, producer Stacey Sher.

• Stacey discusses her current life at home during Quarantine

• Dana describes what Stacey’s producing style is from her perspective, having worked with her on and .Django Unchained The Hateful Eight

• Starting at the beginning, Stacey explains her college years and how she ended up at USC.

• Stacey describes how she ended up with her first two credits ( and ) and the importance of getting to know your peers.Adventures in BabysittingHeartbreak Hotel

• Stacey talks about working repeatedly with talented people, treating people well, and connecting people in the industry.

• Stacey discusses a crossroad in her life and how she ended up at Jersey Films.

• Stacey talks about films being ahead of their time, such as and and receiving a revised review from Roger Ebert.Gattaca Reality Bites,

• Stacey discusses how Erin Brockovich came to be and the journey in getting the movie made.

• The conversation turns to and Stacey explains how the movie was born in passion and belief in Zach Braff’s vision.Garden State

• Stacey explains how all films are “your baby”, feelings on how a film is received, and reveals a comment from Quentin Tarantino that stuck with her through her career.

• The conversation moves to what was expected in this current pandemic, and what they could not have predicted.Contagion,

• Jenny and Dana discuss how they’ve been connected previously and how that connection includes Stacey.

• Stacey reveals that she doesn’t have a formula for her career, and how belief and love for what you do is the only way to survive in the industry.

• Stacey discusses still not having an ending while the shoot was in progress, and her “mind-meld” relationship with Tarantino.Django Unchained

• Stacey discusses treating the filmmaking team as partners and working together as a team and reveals how constraints can inspire new ideas.

• Dana and Stacey remember struggling to shoot with a lack of snow and other challenges on set.

• The conversation moves to and the incredible story being told in the upcoming series, the motivation behind the creation of the story, the amazing cast and crew and the environment on set.Mrs. America

• Stacey discusses the similar approach to film vs series.

• When asked which moment she would re-live from her career, Stacey gives an array of inspiring, moving, funny stories from set.

• Stacey describes feelings and behavior after wrapping a shoot.

• Stacey closes the episode describing the challenges, the passion, and what the love of filmmaking really is.

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Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Host & Producer: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 14, 2020

00:40:35

Prolific writer/director/producer Chris Columbus joins host Jenny Curtis in a conversation about his career path, incredible collaborators, experiences working with children, behind the scenes stories and his newest holiday adventure, THE CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES 2. Through the conversation they discuss:

1:08 - His experience in this holiday season and not watching many holiday films.

1:52 - When Chris knew he was going to be a filmmaker, his path to NYU and his first screenplay written on the nightshift of his summer job.

5:22 - The luck of Steven Spielberg reading GREMLINS, the call Chris got that brought him to LA, and working at the Amblin office.

8:08 - A lesson learned by getting fired from INDIANA JONES.

10:20 - Connecting to John Hughes and turning down NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION after not connecting with Chevy Chase, and getting the script for HOME ALONE.

12:15 - Being new to stunts for HOME ALONE and being nervous for the stuntmen.

13:55 - His unique approach to working with children on HOME ALONE and HARRY POTTER.

16:25 - The magic of working on HARRY POTTER

17:19 - How Chris is drawn to films that take place over Christmas

18:38 - Putting his own family in his films

19:16 - Why Chris decided to write/direct CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES 2

20:28 - Working with Kurt Russell and the strong woman Goldie Hawn played in Mrs. Claus.

23:45 - Creating the language of Elvish working with Darby Camp.

25:16 - Traveling back in time in the film.

26:03 - Stealing from himself in his films

27:09 - Why he made RENT in the way he did.

28:53 - Listening to film criticism and having critical response differ from audience response.

30:55 - Having mixed reviews on MRS. DOUBTFIRE while having successful test screenings.

31:57 - Working with Robin Williams and MRS. DOUBTFIRE and his cameo in NINE MONTHS

34:21 - His company with his daughter Eleanor, Maiden Voyage

35:49 - Supporting Robert Eggers in sticking to his guns on THE LIGHTHOUSE.

37:28 - Loving to shoot musical numbers and the days on set that are joyful.

37:55 - Being ready to quit and being pulled back.

38:30 - His life in storytelling.

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 07, 2020

00:39:19

Actor/Producer Joe Manganiello joins host Jenny Curtis for a conversation about his career path, process and new film, ARCHENEMY.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:46 - When Joe first knew he wanted to be an actor

3:08 - Joe’s experience at Carnegie Mellon in a cut-program.

3:55 - Shooting a movie in secret while at school

5:08 - The exhaustion of making it through his acting training

6:43 - Lessons in school that clicked while filming MAGIC MIKE XXL and TRUE BLOOD

9:06 - Graduating and moving to LA following his NY showcase

9:40 - Not wanting to do TV

10:30 - Auditioning for SPIDER-MAN

12:29 - The 8 year path from SPIDER-MAN to TRUE BLOOD and moving from character actor to leading man.

14:55 - The experience of being part of a highly skilled team of creatives on TRUE BLOOD while performing outlandish storylines.

17:31 - The concern of his work being marginalized and joining MAGIC MIKE.

20:20 - The Twilight routine in MAGIC MIKE XXL

21:20 - Working and training with a partially torn bicep throughout MAGIC MIKE XXL

23:34 - Creating his production company 3:59 with his brother and making BOTTOM OF THE 9TH

25:37 - The story behind the name of his production company and the story of Roger Bannister

27:55 - Joe’s love for the film MANDY and how that led to ARCHENEMY

28:33 - Having the same vision as the ARCHENEMY director, Adam Egypt Mortimer

30:17 - The character work that Joe did to prep for the role of Max Fist and learning about the homeless lifestyle.

32:03 - Having a “meth coach” on set

32:21 - The tight schedule of a 17 day shoot and the challenges that entails.

34:24 - Having a split-brain during precise fight choreography

35:17 - What ‘acting’ is to him.

36:00 - The fulfillment that comes with producing your own work

37:04 - Having a life in storytelling.

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 30, 2020

00:46:15

Writer/Director David E. Talbert joins host Jenny Curtis and guest co-host Nik Walker to discuss his spectacular new holiday film, JINGLE JANGLE: A CHRISTMAS JOURNEY.

0:30 - Nik Walker’s introduction, discussion of HAMILTON, his podcasts THE CHAOS TWINS & LITTLE JUSTICE, the experience of playwriting, and who he is as an artist.

4:37 - David E Talbert joins the conversation

5:22 - Nik and Jenny’s impressions of JINGLE JANGLE

6:04 - The initial idea of JINGLE JANGLE being thought of for theater and how it became a film.

7:22 - David’s son’s seeing himself in JINGLE JANGLE, representation, and creating a universal story.

9:45 - The movies that inspired the innovation aspect of the film

10:20 - Creating beautiful songs that move the plot with Philip Lawrence and John Legend

12:33 - The 11 o’clock hour song, ‘Make It Work’ and how that number broke the form.

15:55 - Deciding to cast Phylicia Rashad

16:48 - Meeting Forest Whitaker at a vegan restaurant to discuss the film and casting him as someone he could trust to be a strong #1 on the call-sheet

18:33 - The professionalism of Madalen Mills and her ability to light up the camera.

19:58 - The amazing experience of Forest Whitaker singing live on set.

21:24 - Keegan-Michael Key nailing his challenging song.

22:30 - Discovery on set, costuming and detailing in the design.

24:13 - Inspiration pulled from HUGO.

24:59 - Nik’s impression of the imagery in Journey’s song and David’s decision to put her (safely) on the roof.

27:29 - The choreography in the film

28:27 - the animation for Ricky Martin’s role

28:45 - Doing pre-records of the song and being able to break the rules by not knowing them

29:47 - Changing the first song a week before shooting.

30:40 - Adding to the shoot while filming.

32:26 - What the concept was when JINGLE JANGLE was going to be a piece of theater and bringing it back to the stage in the future.

35:25 - Being ‘The Christmas Movie’ guy by accident

36:31 - Remembering the dichotomy of the holidays

38:47 - David’s connection to Jeronicus Jangle and his parallels to JINGLE JANGLE

40:39 - The creation of Ms. Johnston’s background trio.

43:30 - A life in storytelling

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Guest Co-Host: Nik Walker

Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 23, 2020

00:37:27

Writer/director Alan Ball and actor Stephen Root join host Jenny Curtis to talk about their processes, career paths and new film, UNCLE FRANK. Through the conversation they discuss:

1:02 - their experiences in quarantine

1:42 - Alan’s history and how it inspired Uncle Frank

3:29 - Stephen being drawn in by the script

4:40 - Why now was the time to make this film

5:05 - Casting Alan’s wishlist of actors

6:00 - Stephen’s take on Alan’s directing style

6:34 - Alan’s take on working with Stephen as an actor

7:57 - The cast’s fun off-set

8:28 - Alan’s memories from set

9:20 - Starting in theater in each of their careers and making the switch to film/tv

11:50 - Alan’s Oscar win with AMERICAN BEAUTY

12:58 - Being drawn to dark comedy

13:55 - Stephen’s experiences on the set of BARRY

15:42 - BARRY episode 5’s unique character and storyline

17:23 - TRUE BLOOD and the scene that Alan could not believe they made.

18:30 - Stephen’s time on TRUE BLOOD

19:11 - The best death scene Stephen has had.

19:37 - Alan’s writing process in TV versus Film

20:49 - Sounding boards Alan has for writing

21:35 - Alan writing direction into the script

22:32 - Stephen working with directors who have written the script (including the Coen Brothers, Mike Judge, and Ben Stiller)

23:42 - One of the most memorable direction Stephen has received

24:19 - How Alan figures out communication with each actor

25:03 - Stephen’s process in creating a character, but in live action and in voice work

27:39 - Finding inspiration

28:39 - Alan’s reviewing of his scripts

29:30 - Working with Paul Bettany

30:44 - Alan seeing his scripts come to life

31:26 - Stephen learning on set every day

31:53 - Challenges Alan faces

32:32 - Reinforced lessons from UNCLE FRANK

33:26 - Meditating for Alan to deal with stress

34:00 - The inspirations that they steal from in their crafts

35:20 - Their need to have a life in storytelling

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 09, 2020

01:00:36

Actor Jake McDorman joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about the Disney+ series THE RIGHT STUFF, the lessons he’s learned throughout his career, and behind the scenes stories from his many projects. Throughout the conversation they discuss:

0:36 - the impending election at the time of the recording

1:15 - his experience of quarantine and being back in Los Angeles

3:03 - getting to live through the fantasy of being an astronaut and learning about the history of the space race in THE RIGHT STUFF

5:22 - finding inspiration in unique ways per projects

5:55 - Getting to learn about the real life Alan Shepard from conversations with astronauts who’d met him.

7:34 - Taking a road trip to Florida in order to have time to absorb his research

8:50 - Getting to do some astronaut training, including what Jenny calls ‘the spinny thing’

10:25 - The casting process and feeling like he bombed his initial audition.

14:34 - Having the role of Alan be offered to him without reading and how that changed his process of approaching the role.

16:38 - The cast’s united effort to prepare without having much rehearsal

17:23 - The big confrontation scene with John Glenn and Alan Shepard

18:38 - The episode shoot order

19:46 - Always finding the character on the last day and watching his work in post.

22:41 - What makes a hero in the face of public image versus human flaws

24:23 - What the feeling of being strapped to a rocket and being blasted into space could be like.

26:35 - Taking classes when he was young and his experience of moving to LA for pilot season

29:10 - Booking Quintuplets and gushing over Andy Richter

30:48 - Having a tight-knit ensemble on GREEK and staying close

31:40 - Actively deciding with his reps to pursue projects on a more mature level, beginning with SHAMELESS

35:15 - Lessons learned from Bradley Cooper in working with him on AMERICAN SNIPER and LIMITLESS.

38:05 - Dealing with the anxiety in wanting to get it right

39:02 - AMERICAN SNIPER’s quick process

39:53 - Moving quickly on LIMITLESS

42:15 - Having LIMITLESS being a different kind of procedural

45:08 - Thinking about where Brian Finch might be had the show continued

46:00 - Loving LADY BIRD and connecting to the script immediately with a unique connection to St. Francis

47:53 - Knowing that when production asks you to prepare something “just in case”, you’ll definitely need it, and brushing up on algebra for LADY BIRD

49:09 - Using GREEK to learn all the lessons from set

50:07 - Getting cast in the series, WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS, the surprising scene on his first day on set, and Taika Waititi having some fun.

54:27 - his upcoming holiday film, HAPPIEST SEASON.

55:30 - The consummate actors he’s worked with setting the tone on set and getting to apply that when leading LIMITLESS.

58:03 - What ‘The Right Stuff’ is to be in the entertainment industry

58:42 - Getting sappy and loving this medium of telling stories.

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Learn More: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodunscripted

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hollywoodunscripted

Hosted & Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste & Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

https://www.curtco.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 02, 2020

00:06:06

In a previously unheard part of host Jenny Curtis’ conversation with Director Harry Bradbeer - Harry reveals how the final (and his favorite) scene of ENOLA HOLMES was a late addition to the film.

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 26, 2020

00:38:11

Actress/Writer/Director/Producer Zoe Lister-Jones joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about her career and life as a creative. Through the conversation they discuss:

0:56 - The rollercoaster of her career ambitions and the struggle to decide on a creative path.

2:39 - The core of Zoe’s parents teaching her to be an artist.

4:09 - Going from the world of theater into the world of film.

5:20 - Being on WHITNEY, learning from Whitney Cummings, and her favorite memory of that time.

6:28 - How she made her first film with her partner, Daryl Wein - BREAKING UPWARDS.

10:14 - The ease of embodying a character based on herself.

11:40 - LOLA VERSUS and working on her first studio film.

13:44 - LIFE IN PIECES and working on an ensemble show.

15:42 - Creating a supportive environment with an all female crew and a cast of friends on her directorial debut, BAND AID.

17:56 - Playing the music live on set.

18:10 - Getting the idea for a couple that turns their fights into song for BAND AID.

19:28 - Deciding to direct and facing her fear.

20:57 - The path to THE CRAFT: LEGACY and determining the story she wanted to tell in it.

23:00 - Walking the line of paying homage to the original and creating a new story for THE CRAFT: LEGACY

23:39 - Working with VFX for the first time.

25:42 - Directing without acting in the film.

27:04 - A scene in the film that portrays genuine kindness and creating a narrative where women support each other.

29:01 - Always being aware of the representation of women in media

30:11 - Giving objects meaning when creating a good energy on set and having an intention setting ceremony before the shoot.

32:02 - Starting a shoot with an activity in community.

33:34 - Overcoming self doubt.

35:29 - Her Halloween plans.

35:46 - The responsibility in having a life in storytelling.

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 19, 2020

00:37:24

Showrunner Mary Laws joins host Jenny Curtis to discuss her career, writing, and her new anthology series on Hulu, MONSTERLAND. Throughout the conversation they discuss:

0:37 - Finding her way to the arts as a young child.

2:20 - Receiving some harsh but beneficial advice from a teacher in undergrad.

3:36 - Starting out as a playwright and the first play she wrote, FINGAL’S CAVE.

4:50 - Tina Howe’s observation of Mary

5:35 - Going to NY and working at Rattlestick Playwright’s Theater

6:21 - Not giving up on getting into Yale

7:39 - Studying with Paula Vogel and taking lessons from her to MONSTERLAND.

8:51 - Going from playwriting to writing NEON DEMON with Nicolas Winding Refn.

11:55 - Writing with other people and creating now for a visual medium in film & TV.

15:36 - The experience of being a first-time showrunner.

16:43 - Adapting from Nathan Ballingrud’s book NORTH AMERICAN LAKE MONSTERS.

19:34 - The choice in naming the episodes after the locations they were set in.

21:07 - Staffing the writers room and creating an open environment.

24:24 - The first day on MONSTERLAND and challenges with wind.

25:33 - Creating one world that the anthology series exists in.

26:20 - The monster Mary is the most proud of and using practical effects.

29:11 - Wrap day on MONSTERLAND and the challenges of doing an anthology series

32:24 - The exciting opportunities of working in television.

34:55 - What storytelling has done for Mary on a personal level.

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 12, 2020

00:35:32

Executive Producer Jessica Rhoades joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about the new Amazon Original series UTOPIA, her career, supporting the writer’s vision, mentoring, and advice for creatives. Through the conversation they discuss:

0:59 - The experience of putting two series out during quarantine, DIRTY JOHN: THE BETTY BRODERICK STORY and UTOPIA.

2:54 - The title of ‘non-writing executive producer’ and what Jessica does in production.

4:34 - Discovering that she could be a producer when seeing Marti Noxon’s name in the BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER credits

5:52 - Jessica’s fan-girl moment when beginning to work with Marti Noxon.

7:29 - The friction on the set of SHARP OBJECTS making the project better.

8:26 - Working with first time showrunners and supporting Gillian Flynn in her first experience as showrunner.

10:39 - Having Dennis Kelly, the creator of the British UTOPIA, involved in this version.

11:45 - How UTOPIA began and Jessica’s first impression of the scripts.

13:58 - Hiding the violence of the show while working from home with children.

14:56 - The fun of making the show and the experience of creating ‘FringeCon’.

16:28 - Getting John Cusack on board, when he doesn’t normally work on series.

17:13 - Casting the rest of the actors, including Sasha Lane.

18:01 - Sharing a name with the main character.

19:08 - Sasha’s fight training.

19:29 - The actors’ knowledge of who makes it through the show and who doesn’t.

20:04 - Growing up through her career, from Disney to Blumhouse to Pacesetter Productions

23:29 - What Jason Blum saw in Jessica to know that she would be a good fit for the Head of Television.

24:47 - Her upcoming series STATION ELEVEN being another project about a virus.

27:21 - The UTOPIA team’s reaction when the pandemic first hit.

27:57 - The mentorship program #StartWith8Hollywood and advice that can be given to upcoming creatives.

30:06 - Why to shoot an independent feature rather than a spec pilot.

31:22 - Joining an established show

31:53 - Taking new lessons, even personal ones, from each set.

32:30 - Not having official mentors of her own, but what she has instead.

33:07 - Advice would be to her young self.

34:00 - A life in storytelling

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 05, 2020

00:43:49

Director Julie Taymor joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about her amazing career in the arts, from Lion King on Broadway to her new film THE GLORIAS. Through the conversation they discuss:

1:07 - Julie’s experience during quarantine.

1:51 - How she connected to Gloria Steinem and began the process of THE GLORIAS

4:59 - Developing a core image to build a story around in THE LION KING, MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM, and THE GLORIAS.

7:00 - Having the film come out at this time and how the original concept was adjusted after the 2016 election.

11:18 - Reaching a younger audience

12:08 - The women who have raised their voices, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and the importance of voting.

15:01 - Collaborating with playwright Sarah Ruhl on THE GLORIAS screenplay.

15:56 - Gloria Steinem’s involvement, her trust in Julie through the process and the shared wavelength they were on.

18:10 - Working with Alicia Vikander and Julianne Moore in their development of their individual Glorias.

20:40 - The conversation Julie would be having with herself on Julie’s ‘bus out of time’ and finding inspiration from her younger self.

22:44 - Having perspective on the US

23:09 - The legacy of THE LION KING and the freedom it has given her.

25:51 - Dealing with death in THE LION KING, a family who found understanding in the show, and how art can ease pain.

29:20 - TITUS and the experience of Julie’s first film.

31:10 - Anthony Hopkins’ challenge in diving into the character of Titus.

32:49 - Connecting with Salma Hayek and directing FRIDA

34:20 - How working with Harvey Weinstein did not tarnish the memory of the making of FRIDA.

36:01 - Finding Joe Anderson and Jim Sturgess for ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, attaching the rest of the cast and rehearsals for the piece.

38:18 - Evan Rachel Wood’s first day on set singing live.

39:27 - The activism in ACROSS THE UNIVERSE being relevant today.

41:01 - The life of storytelling.

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Learn More: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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Hosted & Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste & Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

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Sep 28, 2020

00:49:48

Actor Lance Reddick (THE WIRE) joins host Jenny Curtis and guest co-host Dana Gourrier in a conversation about his career and craft. Through the conversation they discuss:

1:13 - Lance's experience on AMERICAN HORROR STORY: COVEN and working with Jessica Lange

3:29 - Dana’s experience with Jessica Lange on COVEN, her friendship with Gabourey Sidibe, her recollection of Lance’s role and working with Sarah Paulson

6:01 - Dana’s take on working across actors of a certain level

7:19 - Lance’s experience working with one of his idols, Kathy Bates.

12:03 - Lance’s beginnings in music and his path to drama school.

15:23 - Lance’s vocal warm up

17:28 - Lance’s first role in TV, AGAINST THE LAW

18:36 - Working in theater and his transition to film & tv

20:31 - Changing lines versus being word perfect to the written script and the strict nature of FRINGE

25:07 - Dana’s experience of having to change a character while on set and her feel of creating a character for a network show.

26:34 - Not getting time to prepare for a monologue in his audition for THE WIRE.

28:11 - Being able to pull out an accent for JOHN WICK because of one of his early films

29:07 - The difference and similarities in maintaining a character through a series or through a franchise.

30:27 - Ethan Peck’s memory of a line change in TENNESSEE

32:04 - Creating different characters within the same archetype

34:07 - Choosing to play Broyles on FRINGE and Irving on BOSCH

38:46 - Not getting CORPORATE at first and the genius of the creative crew.

41:40 - Working with Regina King on ONE NIGHT IN MIAMI

42:16 - Remembering some bad directions given to him.

44:16 - A quote from Keanu Reeves about subtle acting.

45:00 - Acting for an audio series and how voice acting is different than film & TV.

46:08 - Dana and Lance share their experiences on THE DOMESTICS

47:24 - The importance of a life in storytelling.

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Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 21, 2020

00:49:54

Director Harry Bradbeer (FLEABAG, KILLING EVE, RAMY) joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about his career, process, and new film ENOLA HOLMES. Through the conversation they discuss:

0:50 - The nature of the pandemic

1:19 - Harry’s parents

1:45 - Finding the arts and connecting to entertainment

3:47 - His first short film

4:44 - Going to America for film school

6:31 - Writing to John Schlesinger, his love of MIDNIGHT COWBOY, his connection to John, and his experience of meeting and working with him.

9:41 - What he said in the letter to John and John’s unique way of introducing Harry to people.

11:29 - Getting involved with Phoebe Waller-Bridge, identifying with FLEABAG, and working as a team to shape the story.

15:05 - The style of the balance and collaboration between Harry and Phoebe.

17:53 - Developing the tool of breaking the fourth wall and how the second series took it further.

20:11 - How they found the inspiration for the story of the second series.

21:09 - Why it isn’t hard to let go of the show now that it has ended.

24:00 - When FLEABAG may reappear.

24:19 - Why he says series instead of season.

24:31 - How he came on board for KILLING EVE and how he connected to the script.

27:33 - How directing a pilot is a bigger responsibility than directing subsequent episodes in a show.

28:29 - Getting into the world of RAMY.

30:24 - Being drawn in by the ENOLA HOLMES script

31:40 - The challenges of fight sequences and how they found a way to keep telling the story through the fights in ENOLA HOLMES.

33:18 - Breaking of the fourth wall in ENOLA HOLMES and what originally made Harry nervous about it.

35:20 - Enola’s line of “our future is up to us” and the other powerful messages for audiences.

36:12 - Working in period pieces.

37:44 - Working with Millie Bobby Brown and developing the role of Enola.

40:16 - The challenges Millie faced in leading the cast, but how she stepped up to the challenge.

41:11 - Discussing the transitional “pop-up” animations.

43:26 - A specific scene that Harry loved shooting and building the world of London.

46:32 - A scene that got cut from the film and why keeping a tight cut is important.

47:30 - Having a life in storytelling.

Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

----------------------

Produced and Hosted by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Produced and Edited by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music By: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 14, 2020

00:43:02

Actress Noomi Rapace (THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO) joins Host Jenny Curtis on Hollywood Unscripted in a passionate conversation about her career, characters and upcoming film, THE SECRETS WE KEEP. Through the conversation they discuss:

0:51 - Traveling through summer and quarantining in London

2:38 - How THE SECRETS WE KEEP came to be and finding Yuval Adler.

4:25 - Being able to see her film differently as a producer.

5:31 - Finding how she was able to juggle the producer and actor role.

7:09 - Being affected by the character of Maya.

8:16 - Holding her characters close and getting lost in them.

12:04 - Playing against herself when playing seven sisters in WHAT HAPPENED TO MONDAY.

15:48 - Acting being about connection and the fear that sometimes goes along with it.

18:03 - Her first part in a film at 7 years old instilling her with her dream of acting.

19:18 - Leaving home at 15 to go to acting school and finding herself in a whole new world.

22:24 - Finding freedom in art.

24:27 - Playing the villain in BRIGHT.

25:00 - Getting into character in THE DROP and her input on the story.

27:45 - Going to bat for her characters

30:37 - Getting Chris Messina on board for THE SECRETS WE KEEP

31:55 - Amy Seimetz bringing collaboration to the project.

33:06 - The challenges Noomi faced on set with THE SECRETS WE KEEP.

36:50 - How she takes care of herself when she’s working on the intense roles she takes on.

38:16 - Doing her own stunts.

40:38 - Noomi’s take on a life in storytelling.

Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

-----------------------

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Producer and Editor: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music By: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 31, 2020

00:38:14

Showrunner Jason Katims (FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS, PARENTHOOD, ROSWELL) joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about his new Netflix series AWAY, his upcoming Amazon series, ON THE SPECTRUM, and the incredible lessons he’s learned through his career. Throughout the conversation they discuss:

TIMESTAMPS:

0:44 How AWAY came to be

2:04 Andrew Hinderaker’s involvement and creating a “real” sci-fi

4:49 What Jason is most proud of in AWAY

6:50 Gravitating to stories focused on youth

7:41 Bringing in a team that includes people Jason worked with throughout his career.

13:09 Continuing to learn on every project

15:26 The intensive wirework and training.

17:46 Connecting to the isolation in the story in a different way in quarantine.

20:41 The length of the mission potentially correlating with the length of the show, and the evolving nature of streaming shows.

23:22 ON THE SPECTRUM, Jason’s most recent show to have been green-lit

27:35 Why Jason wanted to do ON THE SPECTRUM and the nature of making a deeply personal project.

31:19 How he finds a connection to source material.

33:13 What Ron Howard liked about Jason’s pitch for PARENTHOOD

34:26 What it means to make work that deeply affects his audience.

36:30 What Jason hopes the audience gets from AWAY.

Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

---------------

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Producer and Editor: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 24, 2020

00:46:02

Showrunner Liz Tigelaar joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about her illustrious career in television, from beginning as an intern on a hit show to creating LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE. Throughout the conversation they discuss:

0:38 - LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE being nominated for five Emmy awards.
1:07 - Adventuring in quarantine.
2:00 - Beginning her career in the industry on DAWSON’S CREEK.
3:30 - Her first writing partner, Holly Henderson, and the value of starting out with a partner.
7:05 - The steps of the ladder of writers and producers and her path up the ladder on AMERICAN DREAMS.
8:41 - Her experiences from show to show as her titles changed.
10:31 - Her first experience as a showrunner on LIFE UNEXPECTED.
12:10 - Being on the CW with MELROSE PLACE before LIFE UNEXPECTED
12:50 - Unintentionally putting herself in the story of her show.
13:43 - Being in an overall deal with ABC
14:42 - Her takeaway from working on various shows and why she wasn’t the best fit for ONCE UPON A TIME.
16:13 - Working as a team on CASUAL
17:52 - The difference she found between streaming and network shows.
19:33 - Having LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE come to her from Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington
20:22 - Finding the show from what the book provided.
22:05 - How she linked the themes and found her story arc.
22:40 - The continuous process of finding your voice in your work
24:18 - The opening and closing moments of the show and how she put a twist in the show that was slightly different from
25:50 - The complexities of the character of Elena and exploring the levels of her prejudice and privilege.
28:20 - The collaboration between Liz, Reese and Kerry in bringing Elena and Mia to life.
29:28 - The power of Mia being unapologetic.
31:11 - The actors working to create Young Mia and Young Elena.
32:18 - The famous photo differing from the actress who plays Young Mia.
33:58 - Creating the photo that could believably be an extremely valuable work of art
36:05 - The adoption storyline and the conversations on what the right ruling would be in the court case.
38:06 - The differing view on Pearl and Mia’s definition of belonging and the conversations of motherhood in the writers room.
39:45 - The scene in the show that Liz is proudest of.
41:30 - The day on set Liz would live over and over if she could.
42:40 - The set hawk
43:33 - Getting to create a life in storytelling.

-----------------------------

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Edited and Co-produced by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste & Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 17, 2020

00:28:16

Showrunner Tony McNamara joins host Jenny Curtis to talk about his career, his life in storytelling and his Emmy-nominated Hulu hit, THE GREAT. Throughout the conversation, they discuss:

0:36 - Tony’s experience in quarantine in Australia.

1:30 - His beginnings in finance and finding his path to writing

3:03 - His first play, which was produced by the Sydney Theatre Company.

4:00 - His experience with film school.

5:30 - Returning to work with STC.

6:11 - His play, THE GREAT, and writing for Robyn Nevin.

7:24 - Turning the play into a screenplay, which landed in the hands of Yorgos Lanthimos

7:45 - Coming on board THE FAVORITE to work on the screenplay and working off a script originally by Deborah Davis

9:09 - Knowing casting THE GREAT would be difficult, and finding his Peter in Nicholas Hoult.

10:26 - Elle Fanning’s involvement as lead actress and EP

12:20 - Finding an ensemble with the necessary comedic and dramatic skills.

13:14 - Communicating style to the writers room and staffing the room with specific skills.

14:22 - The interesting historical facts they found (including the pregnancy test used in the show)

15:28 - Finding the humor through his characters.

16:36 - The casual violence in the show.

16:47 - Elle’s nerves about her comedic experience.

17:45 - The tool of sex throughout the story.

20:18 - Tony’s favorite aspect of these characters.

21:07 - The big job of the Production designer.

21:50 - The first and last days of production on THE GREAT.

24:13 - Getting picked up for season 2

25:25 - Handwriting the first draft.

26:23 - Tony’s perspective on a life in storytelling.

Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

-----------------------------

Hosted and Produced by: Jenny Curtis

Edited and Co-produced by: J Whiting

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste & Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 03, 2020

00:43:18

O-T Fagbenle joins Jenny Curtis on Hollywood Unscripted to talk about THE HANDMAID’S TALE, being a new part of the marvel universe in BLACK WIDOW, and his new Hulu show MAXXX. Through the conversation they discuss:

1:02 - creating MAXXX

2:09 - working with Second City improvisers when developing the show.

4:23 - a hiccup in starting production and changes that C4 wanted changes

6:21 - bringing on more weight to the production team

7:31 - reflections of O-T in the character of Maxxx.

8:16 - exploring the cultural phenomenon of social media in the show.

9:20 - O-T seeing himself in his characters and leaning into different parts of himself.

10:23 - really embodying the character

11:18 - working with his brother Luti and the gift of working with family.

12:13 - Getting Christopher Meloni involved

13:16 - The struggle of working on a passion project and the blessing of hiring a diverse crew.

14:45 - Finding believable extras for the party scene by casting from a real fetish community.

15:44 - The two opposing songs in MAXXX.

17:16 - learning to play drums, guitar and bass specifically for the show.

18:05 - loving to play in the cringe-worthy moments and the British tradition of that style of comedy.

18:57 - getting Jourdan Dunn on the show and expanding her role.

20:40 - the development of the character of Tamzin and the talent of Pippa Bennet-Warner.

22:19 - Maxxx’s adopted son and the dynamic of the non-binary love affair.

26:40 - The joy of experiencing Luke’s pain in THE HANDMAID’S TALE

27:45 - The crew of THE HANDMAID’S TALE helping O-T prepare for MAXXX.

28:24 - The best advice showrunner Bruce Miller had for writing.

29:18 - The funeral scene in MAXXX being the seed of the idea for his character.

29:50 - Joining the Marvel Universe with BLACK WIDOW and the surreal path his career has taken.

32:07 - Almost passing on the audition for BLACK WIDOW and his story of booking the role.

35:47 - Trying to not care about accolades and focusing on what’s important.

36:44 - His charity, ABC foundation (find more at www.abcfoundation.me)

38:24 - Choosing theater or film, the relationship with the audience, and the style of writing in theater.

40:15 - Loving the language of Shakespeare and Jenny’s favorite Shakespearean insult.

41:21 - Final thoughts on MAXXX and finding peace.

Find more about O-T's charity ABC Foundation: https://www.abcfoundation.me

Learn more: Hollywood Unscripted

--------------------

Hosted by: Jenny Curtis

Guest: O-T Fagbenle

Produced and Edited by: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jul 27, 2020

00:42:15

Director Catherine Hardwicke joins host, Jenny Curtis, and guest co-host, Dana Gourrier in a virtual sit-down on HOLLYWOOD UNSCRIPTED. Throughout the conversation they discuss:

0:50 - How Catherine has spent her time during Quarantine.

1:28 - Catherine’s beginning as an architect and the advice on creativity from her professors.

2:32 - Why animation was not the right path for her.

3:20 - The fun of designing TANK GIRL

3:55 - Learning to direct not only from classes, but from working with big directors in production.

5:06 - Being confident in the work through massive preparation.

6:00 - Catherine’s memory of Dana’s knockout audition for DON’T LOOK DEEPER. As well as Dana’s memory of her audition experience with Catherine.

7:20 - What Catherine looks for in auditions and how she creates an atmosphere of play in the audition room.

9:30 - The process of creating THIRTEEN with Nikki Reed, based on Nikki’s real-life experiences as a form of therapy.

11:39 - Evan Rachel Wood’s quote of needing to be sexual and not sexual as a teenager and how Catherine kept the young women safe and comfortable on set.

14:15 - Once Catherine moved to directing, she was ready to leave production design behind.

14:43 - LORDS OF DOGTOWN and how it was the male coming-of-age story version of THIRTEEN

16:08 - Nikki Reed’s character in LORDS OF DOGTOWN

16:37 - Catherine’s love of working with young actors, but also her work with established performers.

17:07 - Jenny’s favorite scene with Heath Ledger and Catherine’s experience working with him and witnessing his process.

18:52 - TWILIGHT and the surprising blockbuster success.

20:07 - Male directors being hired for YA blockbusters after Catherine’s success with TWILIGHT.

21:31 - Catherine’s approach to seeking work.

22:13 - Catherine’s love of action and how she applies that to her films.

23:55 - How Catherine’s approach to storytelling begins with relating to the characters and how the visuals come naturally to her.

24:41 - The action sequences in MISS BALA and working with the actors, Gina Rodriguez and Ismael Cruz Cordova.

24:40 - DON’T LOOK DEEPER and Catherine’s interest in getting involved.

28:26 - The difference in working in short form content.

29:03 - Jenny and Dana’s connection to CalArts and Don Cheadle’s addition to DON’T LOOK DEEPER

29:39 - Having to direct both for vertical and horizontal mode for Quibi.

31:05 - Finding and working with Helena Howard32:17 - Finding a character through costume and Dana’s distinct necklace for her character in DON’T LOOK DEEPER.

33:38 - The leap of faith in hiring Helena as the lead of the show and the work before the shoot.

34:41 - The different genres Catherine has worked in and how she doesn’t define the divisions between them.

35:54 - Finding ways to put personal passions in her screenplays and how TWILIGHT had a bigger affect on the audience because of it.

37:35 - The architecture featured in DON’T LOOK DEEPER.

38:12 - Looking back on THIRTEEN and not having anything Catherine would change.

38:59 - The creative relationship with cinematographer Elliot Davis.

39:55 - The delight and privilege of a career in storytelling.

Learn more: Hollywood Unscripted

-----------------

Hosted by: Jenny Curtis

Guest Host: Dana Gourrier

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste & Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jul 06, 2020

00:35:45

Filmmaker Oge Egbuonu joins Jenny Curtis on Hollywood Unscripted to talk about her powerful directorial debut, (IN)VISIBLE PORTRAITS. Through the conversation they discuss:

TIMESTAMPS:

0:36 - The experience of the week after releasing the film
1:06 - Meeting EP Michael Meyer and how the film came to be.
3:15 - Why Oge hadn’t thought about being a director
3:48 - Creating the structure and flow of the film.
7:27 - The artist Victoria Cassinova and the process of her involvement in the film.
9:01 - The poet Jazmine Williams and the process of her involvement in the film.
10:21 - The composer Jamey Heath and his process of creating the score.
11:23 - The research phase of this project and the revelatory things she learned.
13:32 - Dr. Joy Degruy’s introduction
13:54 - How Oge found and got to know the subjects in the film, from the scholars to everyday women and girls.
15:38 - How she created an environment that allowed for true vulnerability and insisting upon an all-female crew.
17:13 - The subjects of the film and the story of Helen Jones.
20:55 - Having a variety of generations, careers and lifestyles in the film and remaining open to the process.
21:51 - Moving the release date from fall to Juneteenth.
23:47 - Facing rejection in the search of distribution and redirecting the approach.
24:31 - The personal effect that the research had on Oge and how she was able to take care of her mental health in the process.
26:36 - The choice of using parenthesis in the title, (In)Visible Portraits.
27:48 - Oge feeling invisible as a child, and finding herself feeling seen now.
29:29 - What she hopes to see happen in the next 20 years and the goal to have this film included in school curriculum.
31:09 - Realizing after picture-lock that the film was something special.
32:34 - Sitting with the film before being able to talk about it.
34:19 - Oge’s gratitude for the support she’s received

Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

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Hosted by: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer & Editor: Jenny Curtis

Theme Music by: Celleste & Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 29, 2020

00:48:32

Bruce Miller, showrunner of THE HANDMAID’S TALE joins Jenny Curtis in a “Stuck at Home” special of Hollywood Unscripted to discuss the show, his career, and the nature of the industry. Through the conversation they discuss:

0:37 - Bruce’s experience during quarantine.

1:10 - His early connection to the industry through his Dad, when he realized he was a writer and his first screenplay.

3:03 - His path before success, getting fired several times and when he did and did not think about quitting.

5:09 - Being drawn to stories about strong women, the strong women in his life, and being guided in how to properly tell those stories.

6:26 - A time when the women thoroughly dissected an idea before it making it into the show.

7:32 - The atmosphere of the writers room (and set) contrasting with the heaviness of the show.

9:11 - How THE HANDMAID’S TALE series came to be, how Bruce got involved, and how long he’d been thinking about the project.

11:24 - Meeting Margaret Atwood and working with her to make sure THE HANDMAID’S TALE series and the book THE TESTAMENTS fit together.

15:17 - Navigating the characters survival in the danger set in the world of Gilead.

17:13 - Elizabeth Moss; the effect she’s had on the character of June, her professionalism, and being an EP.

19:05 - Creating a slower pace for the story and June/Offred’s internal conflict.

22:09 - June’s mental state in season 3, favorite moments from the season and how pieces of dialogue can be very effective.

23:07 - The character of Emily and the subtlety of Alexis Bledel.

24:37 - The possible influence of society on the story and not inventing cruelties.

26:27 - The absence of people of color in the book and why Bruce decided against using that story point in the show.

28:49 - Creating the look of the show and how all departments work together in the development of it.

30:20 - The purposeful detail in the art design and not explaining decisions to the audience.

33:10 - Bradley Whitford coming on the show and the development of his character, Commander Lawrence.

34:43 - The character of Nick and Jenny’s misunderstanding of his story.

36:36 - Taking the mystery out of an anticipated confrontation scene.

37:32 - The status of season 4 and how quarantine has changed the writing process for the better.

38:23 - The difficulty in scheduling and the benefit to having table reads.

40:24 - Sharing some insights into the coming season

42:12 - Two things in Bruce’s past that he would revisit to change and the part of the industry that shouldn’t be indulged.

44:55 - The job of a showrunner.

Learn more: Hollywood Unscripted

Hosted By: Jenny Curtis

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Theme Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

A CurtCo Media Production

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 22, 2020

00:50:16

Writer and producer Mark Bomback (Live Free or Die Hard, Wolverine, War for the Planet of the Apes) joins host Jenny Curtis with special co-host Dana Gourrier for a Hollywood Unscripted ‘Stuck at Home Special’ to discuss his illustrious career as a screenwriter and his first time as a showrunner with Apple TV plus series Defending Jacob.

Jenny, Dana and Mark discuss how being at home during quarantine has affected and influenced them as artists. (1:00) Mark shares his experiences in Westchester, NY – as it was a Coronavirus epicenter – and how life is becoming ‘the new normal’. (3:15) They share experiences on how you have to include these new experiences and current events when shows go back into production and how you tackle these new challenges to stay relevant.

They move on to discuss Mark’s newest endeavor: being showrunner for Defending Jacob (4:37). Mark shares what brought him to the project, how ‘It’s not the kind of movie we make anymore - it’s more in the train of television.’ And how reading the book drew him in and made him want to work on it. (6:13) Mark expands on this sharing how he develops a screenplay from a book, and how he makes the changes and how when you retell the story in the most cinematic way possible , it sometimes results in changes to really experience the story and characters.

Dana asks Mark who his biggest influences are (9:36) and Mark explains why he’s been influenced by these people and what he believe the role of the writer is.

Mark explains his experiences and change when you become the showrunner (from the writer) writer and the challenge of being both roles at the same time. From casting to crew, you’re involved in every decision(13:20), the evolution of the show from the beginning of being hired to creating the cast, including how Chris Evans became part of the project (15:55).

The conversation goes back to Defending Jacob (20:00) as the hosts ask Mark if he believes - Jacob did it?

Mark shares his experiences of how he started in the film world (25:00), including his first job and how his perseverance and determination – along with taking a few free jobs, and making the right connections – kept him working and his experiences working on a multitude of projects helped him truly develop his skills. He explains that on Live Free or Die Hard it helped develop relationships for a long-lasting career.

Jenny asks mark about part of his job as a writer – doing rewrites (34:47) - and what it’s like not being recognized for a lot of his work. Mark answers with what he loves about those jobs and the most important job of the screenwriter - how you make everyone happy, the joy in rewriting versus your own ideas (39:33), and the privilege of objectivity.

Before ending, they discuss a shared connection between host Dana and Mark (43:00), having both worked The United States vs Billie Holiday. Mark explains how he evolved to Executive Producer role on this film and bringing on Suzan-Lori Parks.

They wrap the show with Mark sharing his favorite memories from the production of Defending Jacob (47:03).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn More: Hollywood Unscripted

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Produced and Hosted by: Jenny Curtis

Co-Hosted by: Dana Gourrier

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Theme Music by: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Jun 01, 2020

00:30:15

Paul Dergarabedian, Senior Media Analyst and Box Office Analyst for Comscore, joins Hollywood Unscripted's Executive Producer Stuart Halperin for a 'Stuck at Home Special' to share recommendations of great movies to catch up on while staying inside, including the movies they fell in love with, fun facts, and more.

TIMESTAMPS:

2:20 - What inspires them both to watch movies.

2:30 - Roman Holiday (1953) with Audrey Hepburn & Gregory Peck. They also discuss the range in directorial style for director William Wyler.

3:44 - Moonstruck (1987) with Cher and how the musical based film made almost $80 million dollars because it was a romantic film that men and women could both enjoy.

5:12 - The power ofThe Shawshank Redemption because you can’t stop watching it, although it never got the love from the box office in its time. But a total favorite for both Stuart & Paul because of the great performances.

6:24 - Purple Rain (1984) - Starring Prince, and how the movie helped make the song Purple Rain iconic.

7:52 - The Social Network - starring Jessie Eisenberg as Mark Zuckerberg, directed by David Fincher, and with an incredible score from Atticus Ross and Trent Reznor. They discuss how the music was a big part of the film.

9:00 - The two share their love for Aaron Sorkin - his writing in both screenplays (A Few Good Men, Enemy of the State, Charlie Wilson’s War, Steve Jobs, Molly’s Game) and historic television show.

10:17 - Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) - Paul & Stuart delve into the iconic impact of the opening scene and how it set the tone for the Summer movies, how it captured people’s imagination with great performances from Harrison Ford & Karen Allen. They agree that this one of those special movies worth seeing on the big screen, and it was the first use of PG-13 film rating.

12:37 - Goodfellas (1990) - Paul’s top movie of all time. Directed by Martin Scorsese, with Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, and Lorraine Bracco. They discuss the brilliant, untraditional ending. They continue the discussion with how this movie relates to the Irishman (14:30) and Scorsese's other iconic films including Taxi Driver and Raging bull.

16:50 - True Grit - They discuss the differences between the John Wayne version vs Coen Brothers version and the special memories it holds for Stuart, because ti was the last of the true 'Westerns' film style.

18:53 - Jerry Maguire (1996) - The show hits a nostalgic peak in remembering this movie. They talk about Tom Cruise aligning himself with great directors (including Cameron Crowe in this movie) and a phenomenal cast of Renee Zelleweger, Jonathan Lipnicki, and Cuba Gooding Jr.

20:54 - Minority Report - The topic changes to director Steven Spielberg and how the scenes in this movie really pushed the envelope for what they had seen so far.

22:33 - Tootsie - How Sydney Pollack is one of the greatest directors of all time and although this film didn't do well initially, it stretched out for a long time in the box office.

23:56 - Stuart & Paul shift to talking about the James Bond series. They start with Goldfinger (1964) and how it was a 'quintessential Bond/ film and that it was the debut of Aston Martin for James Bond.

25:44 - They continue the conversation to Skyfall - directed by Sam Mendes - and the premier of Daniel Craig as James Bond that won an Academy Award for the title song written by Adele. They discuss the future of Bond movies with No Time to Die set to be released in November 2020.

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more: Hollywood Unscripted

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May 18, 2020

00:29:17

James D. Stern joins host Scott Tallal for another special episode of “Hollywood Unscripted: Stuck at Home”. Throughout the conversation, James discusses:

0:44 - Missing sports during quarantine

1:11 - the IMAX film on Michael Jordan (MICHAEL JORDAN TO THE MAX), and its affect on THE LAST DANCE.

1:52 - Staying busy at home during the quarantine and the impact on some filmmakers

2:44 - The distribution of GIVING VOICE and the challenges of coming back from the pandemic for film and Broadway.

4:24 - Directing and GIVING VOICE came to be.

7:16 - His star-studded first movie, ALL THE RAGE and the steep learning curve of transitioning from stage to film.

9:00 - The compassion and skill of the actors in ALL THE RAGE.

10:06 - The founding of his company, Endgame Entertainment and carving his own creative path.

13:59 - The challenges and changes in the cast of AN EDUCATION.

16:56 - His predictions of streaming and the future of media.

18:45 - His documentary, …SO GOES THE NATION, and ingesting news.

20:18 - The movie that got away, THE KING’S SPEECH

21:21 - How his perspective has changed on what he says ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to and following his gut.

23:27 - Working with Robert Redford.

24:05 - The upcoming film, BLISS.

24:46 - Thoughts on getting back into production during quarantine and the future of movie releases.

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more: Hollywood Unscripted

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A CurtCo Media Production

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May 11, 2020

00:44:25

Jim Sturgess joins host Jenny Curtis in another “Stuck At Home” special of Hollywood Unscripted. Throughout the conversation, Jim discusses -

0:35 - Life in quarantine away from home.

2:49 - The real events behind HOME BEFORE DARK and the process behind creating characters from a real family.

4:43 - Brooklyn Prince, who stars as Hilde in HOME BEFORE DARK. Developing the father/daughter relationship for the show and Jim’s real life friendship with Brooklyn.

7:09 - Working with children, how that changes the regular energy of being on set, and how the kids on this show inspire him.

9:45 - Shooting out of order and learning about character as the show progresses.

10:26 - The choices behind the moments of animation on the show.

11:06 - How HARD SUN added to wanting to play a father role.

12:26 - The cyclical nature of the family dynamic in HOME BEFORE DARK and his relationship with his own father.

15:06 - The day that production halted and a deeper dive into his experience in quarantine.

20:56 - How his passions inform who he is and how the path ahead of him rarely follows his plans.

22:58 - Having somewhat of a dual life; being a recognizable star in the US and being anonymous at home in the UK.

24:08 - The films in his career that were based in true stories and what the challenges can be in playing a real person.

26:18 - His early years, from music to education and how he ended up on his path.

30:20 - The process of learning on set and lessons he gathered from being on set.

32:51 - Breaking down staying in character in FIFTY DEAD MEN WALKING and why that can’t be the experience on every set.

34:31 - Why some of your characters stick with you.

35:49 - Taking a moment on every set to acknowledge the experience.

36:20 - Being star-struck, nerves before meetings and how the work takes over once on set.

37:39 - The Vegas lifestyle during the shoot of 21.

39:18 - Getting injured during fight scenes.

40:41 - The unappreciated practical effects in UPSIDE DOWN.

41:40 - Not having a plan and the incredible variety between projects.

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted

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May 04, 2020

00:27:31

Catalina Sandino Moreno joins host Scott Tallal in a discussion about her career, quarantine and her new film, THE QUARRY in this special episode of “Hollywood Unscripted: Stuck at Home”.

0:35 - Catalina discusses how her time in quarantine has evolved from week to week and how her lack creative energy has turned to an increased focus on family.

2:41 - Catalina describes why LOVE IN THE TIME OF CHOLERA or any other movie couldn’t have prepared her for the experience of Covid-19.

3:22 - They discuss what drew Catalina to THE QUARRY and how the script was different from the finished film.

4:13 - Catalina explains how she approached the role of Celia.

5:15 - She reviews the restrained performances of Michael Shannon and Shea Whigham and how they stayed on the same level versus the explosive performance of Bobby Soto.

6:21 - Catalina discusses the ability to express through physical movement.

6:55 - She describes what she learned from Shea and Michael’s relationship and how they treated her on set, a scene that she felt their guidance and protection in particular, and how there was no ‘boys club’ feeling on set.

10:27 - Catalina talks about how Michael Shannon’s intensity in his performance changed the arc of a scene.

12:22 - Catalina discusses the hope and forgiveness that she saw reflected in the script.

13:32 - She opens up about how she thinks people’s views and priorities will change after quarantine ends, including her own.

15:42 - The discussion turns to Catalina’s path to MARIA FULL OF GRACE and how she got involved in her first movie role that earned her an Oscar nomination.

18:45 - She talks about her move to her dream city, New York, followed by her move to Los Angeles.

19:56 - Catalina opens up about how it feels when work is inconsistent, and taking a break to focus on her kid.

21:23 - She discusses seeing Bruno Bichir on the set of THE QUARRY.

21:55 - Catalina explains how the community of actors on CHE was larger than she realized.

22:40 - Catalina tells some ‘pinch me’ moments in her career.

23:22 - Catalina reveals what she takes away from independent movies.

24:40 - The discussion turns to the similarities and differences in priest storylines.

25:40 - Catalina describes the air between takes on THE QUARRY.

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more : Hollywood Unscripted

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Apr 27, 2020

00:42:17

Award-winning Choreographer, Mandy Moore joins host Scott Tallal in a discussion of the art of dance, creativity and working on ZOEY’S EXTRAORDINARY PLAYLIST in this special episode of “Hollywood Unscripted: Stuck at Home”.

0:40 - Mandy discusses her time home during quarantine

2:04 - Mandy explains how she got involved with ZOEY’S EXTRAORDINARY PLAYLIST and the journey through to the filming of the pilot.

5:49 - Scott and Mandy talk about the volume of numbers they created in the season, working closely with the showrunner, and the rapid turnaround.

8:12 - Mandy discusses her process starting with the “why”.

10:09 - Mandy opens up about her support system from a young age through her career.

12:07 - Mandy reveals what she has learned in working with actors, how the beauty of ZOEY’S is in the ‘imperfections’, and the delight in working with Mary Steenburgen, Peter Gallagher and Lauren Graham.

16:01 - They dive deeper into Peter Gallagher’s character in the show, who in reality suffers from a degenerative disease but in ‘Zoeality’ can sing and dance through his emotions.

16:53 - Mandy discusses working with the talented Alex Newell

17:20 - Mandy dives into the creation, production and reception of the American Sign Language number in episode nine.

23:03 - Mandy discusses how her process evolved throughout the first season of ZOEY’S.

24:16 - She explains how a career in dance shifted from the 1990s to today and how SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE and DANCING WITH THE STARS changed the perception of choreographers.

25:42 - Mandy talks about being a producer as well as choreographer on ZOEY’S and working with the directors on the episodes.

27:44 - Scott and Mandy discuss her work on LA LA LAND; particularly the monumental opening number.

29:56 - Mandy breaks down locations and how the space informs the design of the dance.

31:19 - Mandy moves on to discuss set design and how communication is vital.

32:03 - Mandy tells a story of how one small set design change changed one of Skylar Astin’s numbers for the worse.

34:28 - Mandy reminisces on the joy in working with Jane Levy on the episode ‘The Glitch’ and with Peter Gallagher on his number ‘It’s Your Thing’.

36:18 - Mandy reveals how this project has changed her and her approach to the art.

37:21 - Mandy admits there may be a future in which she tries her hand at directing.

38:15 - Mandy talks about her early dance inspirations and her current inspirations.

39:58 - She wraps up looking back at the wide array or work she’s done and forward to the work she’s most excited about.

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more: Hollywood Unscripted

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Apr 13, 2020

00:49:11

An incredible career retrospective with prolific producer Stacey Sher, hosted by Jenny Curtis with special guest co-host Dana Gourrier. In a conversation focused on connection, passion, and the love of filmmaking, we hear stories and advice from Stacey and Dana.

:24 - The introductions of our co-host and guest. We learn that in this special, we are joined by actress Dana Gourrier, who has previously worked with our guest for this episode, producer Stacey Sher.

2:04 - Stacey discusses her current life at home during Quarantine

2:54 - Dana describes what Stacey’s producing style is from her perspective, having worked with her on and .Django Unchained The Hateful Eight

4:17 - Starting at the beginning, Stacey explains her college years and how she ended up at USC.

5:59 - Stacey describes how she ended up with her first two credits ( and ) and the importance of getting to know your peers.Adventures in BabysittingHeartbreak Hotel

9:04 - Stacey talks about working repeatedly with talented people, treating people well, and connecting people in the industry.

10:32 - Stacey discusses a crossroad in her life and how she ended up at Jersey Films.

14:23 - Stacey talks about films being ahead of their time, such as and and receiving a revised review from Roger Ebert.Gattaca Reality Bites,

15:05 - Stacey discusses how Erin Brockovich came to be and the journey in getting the movie made.

18:52 - The conversation turns to and Stacey explains how the movie was born in passion and belief in Zach Braff’s vision.Garden State

21:09 - Stacey explains how all films are “your baby”, feelings on how a film is received, and reveals a comment from Quentin Tarantino that stuck with her through her career.

23:28 - The conversation moves to what was expected in this current pandemic, and what they could not have predicted.Contagion,

26:21 - Jenny and Dana discuss how they’ve been connected previously and how that connection includes Stacey.

27:12 - Stacey reveals that she doesn’t have a formula for her career, and how belief and love for what you do is the only way to survive in the industry.

27:55 - Stacey discusses still not having an ending while the shoot was in progress, and her “mind-meld” relationship with Tarantino.Django Unchained

29:31 - Stacey discusses treating the filmmaking team as partners and working together as a team and reveals how constraints can inspire new ideas.

30:30 - Dana and Stacey remember struggling to shoot with a lack of snow and other challenges on set.

32:29 - The conversation moves to and the incredible story being told in the upcoming series, the motivation behind the creation of the story, the amazing cast and crew and the environment on set.Mrs. America

37:48 - Stacey discusses the similar approach to film vs series.

38:39 - When asked which moment she would re-live from her career, Stacey gives an array of inspiring, moving, funny stories from set.

43:20 - Stacey describes feelings and behavior after wrapping a shoot.

44:38 - Stacey closes the episode describing the challenges, the passion, and what the love of filmmaking really is.

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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Apr 06, 2020

00:38:19

Actor Don Cheadle and show runners Jordan Cahan & David Caspe join us from home, for a special 'Stuck at Home' edition of Hollywood Unscripted to share inside stories from Showtime’s 'Black Monday'.

1:21 - Don, David and Jordan share their experiences of staying at home how they are practicing social distancing.

3:30 - The three discuss the irony of doing Black Monday with the current stock market situation and how it evolves and relates to today.

4:50 - Don expresses how is working from home and the change in his work schedule on current projects, including having children at home and how that affects their daily routines.

6:50 - Jordan and David share how this pandemic and working from home changes their perspective on their daily routines and the realities (good and bad) of being at home and the gratitude for both long days and the time they now get to spend with their families.

8:40 - What it's like being on set with 'a big happy, family' that has genuine chemistry and the importance of surrounding yourself with people you know and love and who are so immensely talented.

11:17 - David and Jordan talk about how the show began in 2007 and selling it to Showtime and what they though the impact of 'Billions' would be on their show. They elaborate with the experience of having executives producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg join the project.

12:38 - What is the real Black Monday and how it influenced the story: where could they make the stakes higher in their own story, but also keep the ridiculousness of the truth of this era?

15:00 - The showrunners talk about previous comparisons to the 'Wolf of Wall Street' and the fun they have including those comparisons in their own show.

17:30 - Don shares his experiences of coming from a previous Showtime series, 'House of Lies' and what the comparisons are between these two characters.

20:00 - The three laugh about the opener of season 2, in which Don has to wear a long hair wig and his reaction to the journey of his character, Mo.

23:52 - David and Jordan share their thoughts on the responsibility of the show and where to land the responsibility for the crash of Wall Street in the 1980s and the real Black Monday - and who will suffer the consequences for it in season 2.

25:50 - David and Jordan express how fortunate they feel with their incredible writing team.

26:25 - Don reacts to reading to the crazy things that happen to his character in the script, including some absurd things he is asked to say, and the importance of leaning into the time period .

30:40 - Don shares his passion for the organizations he is involved with, including The Solutions Project with Mark Ruffalo, and the importance of finding the right way to draw attention to these issues unless there is a national disaster.

32:00 - The three discuss their views on if there is there an obligation to use their celebrity platform to give back?

35:00 - Final words from our guests: gratitude for those working on the frontlines during this pandemic, and to remind listeners that 'Black Monday' is a comedy!

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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Mar 23, 2020

00:31:00

Sally Potter joins Scott Tallal and Jenny Curtis on to discuss her new film, Sally explains what her goal was for exploring this subject matter (0:53) and her personal experience with dementia (1:50).Hollywood Unscripted The Roads Not Taken.

They discuss the character of Molly (4:16) and the character’s similarities to Sally’s work-caretaker balance (4:57). Sally reveals the challenge of finding investors versus the ease of signing on actors (5:46). Sally reviews her process of casting and developing the characters further (7:13). She reveals how Selma Hayek and Javier Bardem’s friendship affected their behavior on set (8:26). She raves about Elle Fanning, having worked with her as a child and an adult (9:25). Sally then reveals why she does not write with specific actors in mind for roles (10:00).

Sally dissects the feelings behind her personal experiences in grief and loss (11:09), how that did or did not affect her during the making of the film (12:22) and how she does not use her work to process those feelings (13:22).

Sally describes her collaboration with cinematographer Robbie Ryan (15:25) and the production designer of the film, Carlos Conti (17:06). She discusses the transitional gestures written into the script (18:08). She explains how she came to be credited as an editor on the film (18:54) and how she faced challenges in communicating the story to audiences (19:54).

She reviews her process in composing the music for the film (22:10) and then explains why she changed from the original title, Molly (23:44). Sally also explains her takeaway from (25:19) and how she lets her films reveal to her how they need to be told (28:10).The Roads Not Taken

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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Mar 16, 2020

00:56:21

In a special edition of Hollywood Unscripted, we celebrate one of the funniest movies of all time, Airplane! Host Scott Tallal is joined by producer, director and writer, David Zucker and star Robert Hays.

(0:48) They discuss how it all came together through the development of suburb north of Milwaukee, from starting an improv group at University of Wisconsin and how they moved it to LA

David discusses how the first idea took a year to write the script and that they had no budget (1:38) but John Landis came to see the improv show and how listening to and learning from John changed the direction of the movie

How a meeting at Paramount with Michael Eisner and Jeff Katzenberg ultimately was the key to getting the movie made.

David shares how their improv show inspired the movie and what types of ideas they were looking to spoof (2:54). And how Zero Hour shaped the direction and truly inspired the crafting of the script, including the importance of a character arc and a 3 act structure (4:30).

David continues to share how the movie came to being including how they finally got the rights (4:52) from Zero Hour and what a surprise it becoming a hit really was. David and Robert dicuss their thoughts on why it’s still a hit, including the jokes which are still funny today (6:05).

The truly team effort from Paramount and the help they received from the executives (6:45).

David shares the moment he found out the movie was greenlit and how Jerry and Jim also reacted (8:00) and the dramatic name changing of Jerry (11:00) to get the Director Guild of America to allow three people to direct a film.

Robert and David share what the first day of filming was like and how three white Jewish guys tried to write a joke about ‘speaking jive’ (12:08).

Is the movie and are the jokes over the line? (13:15).

(14:08) David shares stories about the actors ‘that got away,’ – from the ones who really wanted it to those who threw the script in the trash, including: David Letterman, Barry Manilow, Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, Bruce Jenner, Sigourney Weaver, Jack Webb, Harriet Nelson, and Peter Graves.

The two reminisce about the joy of being on set (19:19) and what it was like making a film that had the crew laughing during every scene, including the antics Leslie Nielsen played on Robert Hays (19:45).

David shares how the most shocking lines made it into the script (21:10).

Robert describes his crazy days while filming the disco scenes and running across the lot on his lunch breaks (21:45) and the craziness of filming in LAX airport.

They share the irony of casting the actual airport announcers to read the red and white zone announcements (25:24) and the surprise of casting Ethel Merman in what was her final role (26:25).

The two laugh about the fact that–no planes will air the movie and share their experiences being on an airplane, how they get recognized and their parents reactions (28:25).

They continue on to discuss other casting choices such as how Kareem Abdul-Jabbar became involved in the film (30:55) and how it changed his public persona and how Jonathan Banks got involved in the movie (32:46).

Robert shares what it was like filming on a cold Malibu beach (33:23).

David talks about what it was like adding jokes in the credits for the first time (35:13), the importance and beauty of Elmer Bernstein’s score (36:01) and the origin of the film’s poster – the iconic twisted plane (36:24).

Scott asks how the movie relaunched Leslie Neilsen’s career and how he went from serious tv and films to wanting to do very funny comedies (37:18).

They all laugh about how Universal fought them on the name against the name Airplane (40:25) and how it had to be called something different internationally.

The three discuss if the film could be made today and would the jokes work (42:00)

David and Robert share their favorite memories since the movie released including the funniest thing that’s happened at a Q & A (43:30), if they knew it would last 40 years (44:46), their families reactions to the film (50:30) and finally how it’s affected their careers (54:01).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted and host Scott Tallal: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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A CurtCo Media Production: https://www.curtco.com

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Mar 09, 2020

00:30:50

Matt Kaplan, Principal Producer of Ace Entertainment joins Hollywood Unscripted to discuss the young adult market.

The conversation with Matt and Scott Tallal begins with Matt’s two passions, football and movies (0:34). They then discuss Matt’s early internships and jobs (0:58) and what he learned from them (2:14). They discuss his move to a position at Lionsgate that led him to YA films (2:39).

Matt talks about working with Jason Blum (4:22), moving to Dreamworks and Awesomeness (4:52), and then landing at his company, Ace Entertainment (6:14).

Matt mentions how came about (7:43) and reveals how developing talent was a priority of the company (8:38). He talks about how they make films that stand out (9:40) and how they pursue success (10:26). Matt explains how he stays connected to the younger audience (11:21) and how the company is making a variety of different types of content (12:58).To All The Boys

He opens up about what he’s looking for in people he works with (14:02) and the goals for Ace Entertainment (14:24). Matt then discusses the potential of pushing to theatrical releases (16:26).

Matt discusses Michael Fimognari’s jump from cinematographer to director on (18:38) and the how the overnight fame of Noah Centineo and Lana Condor did not affect their focus (19:15). He discusses another movie, , and working with a YouTube star (20:13).To All the Boys 2Before I Fall

Jenny Curtis chimes into the conversation (20:49) and Matt dives deeper into finding the style of (20:58). Matt discusses being content to stay in his current niche (23:36) and reveals upcoming projects (24:20). He give a peak into the focus of (28:40) before closing out with what he learns from his movies (29:08).To All The Boys To All The Boys 3

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Mar 02, 2020

00:29:08

Dave Holstein, creator and showrunner of “Kiddingjoins Scott Tallal to discuss this Showtime series.”

Dave starts off by explaining how the world was looking for a Fred Rogers-style character who is innately good (1:05) and the differences between the various biographical projects and the inspiration for this fictional character (1:58). He explains his personal reasoning for giving his lead character, Jeff Pickles, so many dramatic hurdles (3:05).

Dave delves into how “Kidding” came about, starting with his job as a writer on “Weeds” (3:56). Searching for another satisfying project, he ended up writing something for himself (4:24) with Jim Carrey in mind (4:52). Dave describes the journey “Kidding” went on as it was developed, passed around town, green-lit, and paused (5:24) before finding a unique way to get the script into Jim Carrey’s orbit (8:04).

Now in season 2, Dave explains how the show has grown and found its footing (9:32). He reviews plot points and the magic in making them (11:12). Dave discusses how in season 2 the backstories of the characters are deepened (13:03) and dives into Catherine Keener’s role (14:32). He talks about the creative ways the writers found to explore the themes of the season (15:07).

Dave gives a rundown of the writers room (17:45) and reveals their creative process (18:36). He describes the atmosphere on set (20:58) and explains a particularly interesting shoot day (22:57).

He admits that he prefers television as a writer’s medium (26:08) and revels in the creative opportunity he has found himself in (27:28)

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Feb 24, 2020

00:45:32

Kyle MacLachlan joins Scott Tallal on Hollywood Unscripted for a conversation of passion and creativity.

Starting at the beginning, Kyle describes how his mother was his initial guide into the world of theater (1:17), and discusses his musical training (2:08). He describes how his path changed when he was cast in his first film, “Dune” (2:52) and the experiences of that film. The conversation continues to his next couple films, “Blue Velvet” (4:07) and “The Hidden” (4:30).

Kyle returns to his early years, finding his journey to being a professional actor (6:35). The conversation touches on another passion of Kyle’s, winemaking (7:52) and circles back to why acting became Kyle’s path (8:33).

Kyle explains his initial experience turning down Oliver Stone (11:25) and how he ended up working with him on “The Doors” (12:30).

He explains how he hasn’t felt the lack of privacy that other celebrities have faced (13:06).

Kyle jumps into “Twin Peaks” (14:12) and the reason the story resonated so strongly with audiences (14:35). Then the conversation lands on “Showgirls”, the ups and downs of that project (15:51) and how the lull after it (17:10) subsided with his roles in television (17:30).

He notes his recent experience in Sundance with “Tesla” (17:47) and discusses the nature of that film (18:06). He then talks about “Atlantic Crossing” (18:36) and reveals the surprises he learned in researching his role of FDR (19:18).

Kyle talks about his first experience in half hour comedy with “How I Met Your Mother” (20:30) and how that led to his current role in “Carol’s Second Act” (21:16).

With almost 40 years in the business, Kyle reveals his best experiences as an actor (22:36) and some of his worst (23:30). He opens up about his experiences with some of the directors he’s worked with, including David Lynch (24:23), Oliver Stone (25:14), Paul Verhoeven (25:41), and Pam Fryman (26:08). Kyle then looks back on how his approach to acting has changed since the beginning of his career (26:40).

The discussion comes to Kyle’s one and only experience directing (27:31) and why he likely won’t try it again (28:28). He then reveals the characters he misses playing (29:06) and why these characters are so much fun (29:35).

With the official interview over, CurtCo CEO, Bill Curtis, and Hollywood Unscripted producer, Jenny Curtis, join the conversation over a glass of Kyle’s wine, Pursued By Bear (30:17) to discuss the similarities and differences of Kyle’s creative endeavors (32:22), his journey with this brand (33:01), his various wines (37:35) and more of his experiences as an actor (40:39).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Feb 17, 2020

00:34:12

Jeremy Teicher and his wife, Alexi Pappas, shot a feature inside Olympic Village during this Olympics. Jeremy joins Hollywood Unscripted to discuss the details of this incredible opportunity.

This was all possible because Alexi herself is an Olympian. Jeremy starts off by explaining how the origin of grew from their previous film, (0:43) and how that film reached the president of the International Olympic Committee (1:45). They received an offer to join the Artists-in-Residence program at the Olympics (2:53) and Jeremy explains how their film went from a series of shorts to a feature length film (3:13).Olympic Dreams Tracktown

Jeremy dives into the necessities, equipment and logistics of being a “one-man-band” (5:43). He also discusses the inspiration drawn from Richard Linklater (7:46).

The conversation moves to how Jeremy and Alexi met and helped each other grow (8:47).

Jeremy explains the ins and outs of working off a “scriptment” rather than a full script (10:13). He goes on to discuss how on top of the two main actors, Olympic Dreams would utilize real Olympians as additional characters and Jeremy talks about how they would get these Olympians involved (13:12).

Jeremy clarifies the similarities and differences from Alexi’s real experience as an Olympian and her character’s experience (14:07), the reality of post-olympic depression (15:30), and discusses the medal ceremony scene in the film (16:29).

Jeremy describes the freedom he felt on this shoot (20:12). He explains how Nick Kroll came on board (22:21) and Nick’s contribution as a team player (24:16). He dives deeper into the nature of the shoot, explaining how many takes they would get per scene (24:49) and how they worked with a flexible schedule (26:17). He also reveals the differences between the medical practices at the summer and winter games (29:25).

The conversation wraps up as Jeremy dives into his working partnership with his wife and how that connection fuels their creativity (31:09).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted and host Scott Tallal: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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Feb 10, 2020

00:32:31

Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, the co-writers and co-directors of Downhill, join Hollywood Unscripted for a hilarious and candid discussion about their creative partnership.

They begin with their friendship, stemming from their days in The Groundlings (0:35). From there they explain the journey to their directorial debut (2:23) and how they got the star names involved in the film (3:20). They discuss how the atmosphere on their sets leans toward being light and fun (3:49), how starting as actors informed how they create their projects (4:56), and how they work as a team when directing (6:05).The Way Way Back

Then they explain the challenges and opportunities of adapting a film. Jim talks about the differences and similarities in Downhill and Force Majeure (7:45) while Nat explains how a writer needs to find their own voice in an adaptation (9:13).

They reveal the process of finding the balance in dark comedy (10:52). Jim explains how the audience is represented in the flagpole scene of the movie (13:22) and how they have larger-than-life supporting characters work in the framework of the film (13:48). They admit to seeing themselves in some of their writing and discuss how the audience can as well (15:27).

Jim talks about what he learned in his experience on (17:53). They then explain how they tackle disagreements in their partnership (19:09).The Writer’s Room

The conversation moves to upcoming projects and they explain the status of (20:54) and (22:01).The Heart Batso and The Wall

Both Nat and Jim weigh in on if being actors makes them better writers (23:06) and they review some of their favorite parts they’ve gotten to play (25:15). Finally, they each open up about what part of the industry they most enjoy working in (28:37).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Feb 03, 2020

00:43:40

John Fithian, the President and CEO of the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), sits down with Scott Tallal to discuss the exhibition side of the movie industry.

John opens by shining a light on the continuing myths of disruption in the business (1:21). He discusses how streaming services actually boost theater attendance (2:38).

They talk about how the quality of technology at home and in theaters is changing (5:28). John talks about the differences between the experiences of movie watching at home and at the cinema (6:10).

The conversation moves to the high end cinema experience with Dolby Cinemas, IMAX and PLFs (8:55). John talks about the exciting technology coming down the pipeline (11:09), explains the debate about high dynamic range in cinema (12:00), and discusses other technology that may or may not work (13:43).

John talks about the incredible cinemas being built across the country (16:34) and explains what a ScreenX theater is (17:04). They then talk about the industry debate of flexibility in programming and the potential of what kind of special programming theaters could do (19:54).

The conversation turns to alternative content (24:10), benefits and controversy of dynamic pricing (26:26), and subscription services in cinema (28:08). John reveals how he got involved with NATO and what the best part of this business is (30:09).

John explains to Scott why direct-to-home content (32:11) and the premium service of Red Carpet (33:10) is not currently concerning to the business of theater owning. He discusses the challenge with Netflix and hopes for further negotiations (35:28). They review 3D technology and how the roll-out of 3D in America did not succeed as it could have (37:14). They wrap up with a discussion about pre-show content such as short films (40:57) and post show possibilities (41:38).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted and host Scott Tallal: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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Jan 27, 2020

00:37:18

Producer Kara Vallow joins Hollywood Unscripted to discuss her career in animation.

The conversation begins with the most recent endeavor, (0:49). Kara discusses her hesitance to take on the project (1:57) and how she eventually came on board (3:07). She explains how Cosmos functioned differently from her other shows (7:13).Cosmos

Scott and Kara move on to discuss the large operation she and Seth MacFarlane set up at Fox (8:15). Kara talks about the Family Guy’s original cancellation (8:27) followed by a large renewal order (9:37). She reveals that while the renewal was a great opportunity for her (10:23), animation is a challenge for studios (10:43) and she admits to the cutthroat nature of staffing this style of animation (12:04).

Then Kara candidly discusses her experience of being a female in a male-dominated industry (13:59) and how she has been able to help encourage change (17:34).

The conversation loops back to Kara’s beginning jobs (21:04) and how she moved out to LA (22:24). She discussed meeting Seth at Hanna-Barbera (24:41), moving to a less enjoyable situation at Sony (26:59), and finally leaving to go to Family Guy (27:51).

Kara explains why as a child she wanted to be an animator (28:47) and how art school shifted her perspective (29:48). She thinks back on her favorite shows to watch as a child (31:18). She discusses how Cosmos now is so different from the version she watched as a child (31:48).

They discuss Seth MacFarlane’s talent and their partnership (32:52). Finally, Scott and Kara wrap back around to Kara’s love for what she does (35:23).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Jan 20, 2020

00:27:33

Irwin Winkler, renown producer, director and writer, sits down with Scott Tallal to discuss his prolific career in moviemaking. He opens by explaining how he stumbled upon his beginnings in the mail room of William Morris (1:11), his feelings about being an agent (2:46), and how he finally found himself in film production (3:31).

Irwin goes dives into what being a producer entails and how today’s producer differs from when he started (5:48). He discusses his book, and the process of writing it (8:02). He describes how the business is tough (10:03) and what made him a good fit for this career from the start (10:29).A Life in Movies,

He moves on to discuss how marketing is a vital and expensive part of a film’s budget (11:42). He reveals the “only difference” between working with a studio and a streaming service (12:53), raves about partnering with Netflix (13:11) and goes on to discuss the genesis and production of (13:43).The Irishman

The conversation then turns toward the Academy awards, where Irwin discusses his first win with (18:02) and the disappointing losses (19:08). Irwin dives into what qualities make a successful producer (19:41) and how the opportunities have increased for current filmmakers (20:20).Rocky

He declares that retirement isn’t coming for him any time soon (23:12), looks back at his proudest moments (24:14) and discusses some chances that he took that paid off (25:43).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Jan 13, 2020

00:40:46

Ron Moore joins Hollywood Unscripted for an in-depth conversation about his notable career.

Ron starts at the beginning, with his roots in fandom (:49) and how dropping out of school led him to California (2:25). He discusses how a Star Trek set tour led to his first script being picked up (3:34) and tells about how he met Patrick Stewart on the set of shooting that script (6:26).

He then moves on to explain how ‘Voyager’ was not a great experience (7:17) and how leaving that job was fortuitous (8:49) and he opens up about ‘Carnivale’ (9:48).

Ron goes back to the beginning and he talks about remembering watching the first steps on the moon (11:30). He remembers watching the original ‘Battlestar Galactica’ (13:22) and then discusses the enormous opportunity of his re-envisioning the show (14:05). He talks about pushing the envelope with sex in science fiction (16:29) and explains why science fiction is important (18:09).

Ron talks about changes in television, being at the front of the 2007 writer’s strike (21:01), interacting with fans on AOL (21:40), what he learned from social media (24:09) and how he writes his stories (25:56). Then he reveals the worst part about being a showrunner (28:38) and the best (29:21).

He discusses his current show ‘For All Man Kind’ (30:53). He talks about how the industry is very different now from when he started (33:28) and how framing for television has changed (36:08).

Ron wraps up by saying he does not know when retirement might come (37:39) and how he looks back at his childhood self all the time (39:07).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Jan 06, 2020

00:36:54

Alfre Woodard joins as the first guest of this episode. She starts off by revealing why she says “yes” to a role (1:09). She talks about the prisons she visited with Chinonye Chukwu in preparation to play the role of Bernadine (2:54). She explains how an actor’s body is their instrument and that they are trained to play the notes of their emotions. (4:14)Hollywood Unscripted

Alfre discusses her character’s fractured relationship with her husband (5:55), why her profession put the relationship in that position (7:10) and how Bernadine is emotional in a different way than an artist would be (8:20).

She goes further into the actors’ preparation for their roles, reveals the affect it had on her (12:32), describes how the actors were able to show up ready to work together (13:45), and how emotion is not something to be afraid of (14:41).

Chinonye Chukwu, writer and director of , then joins (17:46) and describes how the process of writing this film led her to uproot her life in order to deepen her research (18:04). She discusses choosing to write the story from the perspective of the prison warden (20:18) and talks about teaching her college filmmaking curriculum in a women’s prison (20:37).ClemencyHollywood Unscripted

She recalls how Alfre came aboard the project (21:51) and then talks about working with the team - cinematographer Eric Branco (23:29); editor Phyllis Housen (24:24); actors Danielle Brooks (24:28), Richard Schiff (26:08), and Wendell Pierce (26:29); and producer Bronwyn Cornelius (27:17).Clemency

Chinoye tells how changes to the script were made to focus on Bernadine’s story (27:57). She describes how it feels to have a financially viable film (29:01) and her next steps (30:02).

Finally, she discusses how she chose to begin and end (31:26) the film, the ability to bring joy to a heavy set (33:03), and her advice to aspiring filmmakers (34:28).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Dec 30, 2019

00:35:45

Mark Bailey regales us with a variety of booze-fueled tales from Old Hollywood. Among various anecdotes, we hear readings of stories about Humphrey Bogart’s penguin troubles (3:08), the disaster set of (9:20), the wild side of Lee Marvin (17:38), Tallulah Bankhead’s off-screen fame (23:31) and Ava Gardner’s night out with Sinatra (31:36).Beat The Devil

Happy New Year from Hollywood Unscripted

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Dec 23, 2019

00:28:54

Calling from New York, Tracy Letts jumps into an open and honest conversation with Scott Tallal. They dive right in with Tracy’s family life, starting with his parents humble beginnings as school teachers who moved on to second careers (0:39) and his real-life family inspirations for (1:55).August: Osage County

Tracy describes how his approach to the art form has changed over the years (4:57), the different parts of his personality that are used for performance and writing (6:03) and why theater is a profound art-form (6:53).

He then discusses the type of character he is often asked to play and how he sets those roles apart (8:04). He reveals what leads him to choose a role (12:30).

Tracy admits to hating doing adaptations from stage to screen and why that is the case (13:38), but explains the benefit of doing so (15:22).

In a moving and intimate story, Tracy opens up about the deep ties between his father and his career in the arts (20:14).

They round out the call with Tracy explains just how grateful he is for the career he’s had (26:44).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

Learn more about and Scott Tallal: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscriptedHollywood Unscripted

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Dec 16, 2019

00:38:53

Gurinder jumps into the conversation by discussing the origins of her Bruce Springsteen fandom (0:55) and how Bruce’s music started her bond with journalist Sarfraz Manzoor (2:07), and how they got Bruce involved in the film (2:38).

Gurinder discusses the difference between Sarfraz and the character inspired by him (6:22), her working relationship with her husband, Paul Berges (7:33) and the style of films that she makes (12:28).

She talks about falling into a career in media in order to make change (14:37), how being a journalist helps her in filmmaking (15:53) and the importance of her film (17:40).Viceroy’s House

She reveals that all roles she takes on in filmmaking has been out of necessity (22:36) and talks about how Levantine Films got involved (23:34),

She discusses dealing the challenging weather in England (25:24), loving the moments with the Bruce music (27:15) and facing the very real racism in history (27:34).

Gurinder talks about the skill of going for the emotion (29:51), the need to be a good communicator with your team in order to be a good director (32:58) and how her films are part of her (35:50).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Dec 09, 2019

00:39:42

A conversation about with director Minhal Baig and actress Geraldine Viswanathan.Hala

Minhal discusses how the kickstarter-funded short (0:45) became the feature, the experience of going to Sundance (3:31), and realizing that the film needed to be more personal than she’d originally intended (6:42).

Geraldine and Minhal explain how Geraldine got involved with the project (9:10) and the process of finding the character of Hala (11:49) and the commonalities and differences of being first generation (13:34).

Then Geraldine talks about the meditative experience of (17:50). Minhal discusses the choice of voiceover use (20:12) and the bookend scenes of the story (21:43).Hala

Minhal explains the distinction of cultural patriarchy (23:02), the battle with herself in the writing of this film (25:25) and her takeaways from the film (27:01).

They discuss the warm, female-filled atmosphere on set (27:50). Geraldine discusses the responsibility and process of carrying the film (28:45) and the feeling of the first screening at Sundance (29:58). Minhal and Geraldine reveal their favorite days on set (32:19). Geraldine talks about of being an actress (34:15) and working with female directors (36:42)

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Dec 02, 2019

00:49:24

Richard discusses his path to being a powerful documentary filmmaker started with Jane Goodall (1:57) and how Leonardo DiCaprio’s call changed everything in a pursuing a story that seemed impossible (4:43).

Cynthia then discusses the issue and effort from the veterinarian’s point of view (7:40). Jack opens up about why he dropped out of school to get involved with Sea Shepard and the danger they now face every day (11:00).

Richard explains the safety preparation involved with a mission like this and the peril they came face to face with while shooting (14:05). He discusses the role of the “real life James Bond” Andrea Crosta and what Earth League International is doing to confront this problem (SP) (17:30).

They discuss the corruption in Mexico (22:18) and reasons that footage may have been left out of the film (24:15).

The conversation turns back to Cynthia and the “emotional heart” of the film (26:58). Jack picks up with the fight that is continuing to this day and the positive impact of the film (29:06). Turning back to the filmmaking side, Richard discusses the strategy in the style of the film (33:51).

Cynthia rounds out the conversation with the dire but hopeful state of the Vikita today (40:14). She discusses the importance of filmmakers telling stories like this (45:14) and Jack urges everyone to get involved in the fight for conservation (46:53).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Nov 25, 2019

00:47:35

In this episode director and screenwriter Scott Z. Burns and producer Jennifer Fox discuss their new film, Hollywood Unscripted, The Report.

Scott and Jennifer discuss the challenges and benefits of working on a different budget than anticipated (2:01), the star quality and commitment of the cast (6:04) and how they work as a filmmaking team (11:25).

They move on to discuss how Scott’s vision for the style of the film changed (12:13), the surprising facts behind the true story (13:39) and the personal effect of making a film like this (19:57).

They discuss finding levity in the language (25:44), the inspiring dedication of the cast (28:27), the uncertainty of working while looking for funding (30:51), and the overwhelming result at Sundance (32:48).

The Report will be available on Amazon and features an incredible cast including: Adam Driver, Annette Benning, Jon Hamm and Michael C. Hall.

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Music By: Celleste & Eric Dick

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Nov 18, 2019

00:45:20

In this episode documentary filmmaker Mark Landsman discusses his new film, Hollywood Unscripted, Scandalous: The Untold Story of the National Enquirer.

Starting with why and how this movie came to be (1:19) and why the history of this magazine is relevant today. They go into the history of the creation of the National Enquirer and its first iteration with Generoso Pope (6:15) and the major points in his marketing epiphanies. They discuss the next owner, Steve Coz (14:18).

Then CurtCo Media’s CEO, Bill Curtis, joins the conversation with his perspective from the world of magazine publishing (18:48). They discuss interviewing subjects who may have their guard up (19:52), and bringing in additional journalists to add credibility and balance the perspective (21:20). They then move to David Pecker’s history with the magazine (24:00) and his ultimate effect on the National Enquirer.

They go behind the scenes on the decisions made when telling this story (29:29). Mark discusses the sense of obligation to tell this story (33:19) and warns us to pay attention to the media we consume (34:10).

Executive Producer: Stuart Halperin

Producer: Jenny Curtis

Learn more about Hollywood Unscripted: https://www.curtco.com/hollywoodunscripted

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