McG (Acclaimed Director & Producer) on Directing Hollywood Blockbusters and the Power of Audience Research

Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Research Expert Kevin Goetz

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In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," Kevin Goetz sits down with director and producer, Joseph McGinty Nichol, better known as McG. They discuss McG's journey in the entertainment industry, starting with music videos and leading to his directorial debut with Charlie's Angels, which had, at the time, the highest-grossing opening weekend for a directorial debut. Through his production company, Wonderland Sound and Vision, McG has overseen the production of films and television shows such as Terminator Salvation, This Means War, We Are Marshall, and Family Switch along with The OC, and Turner and Hooch for television. In this personal conversation, McG also touches on his struggles with agoraphobia, and the importance of audience feedback in the filmmaking process.
First Time Director with a Huge Budget (1:39)
McG shares his experience directing his first full-length feature film, Charlie's Angels, how Drew Barrymore helped him get the job, and how he nearly got fired multiple times due to the studio's concerns about the film's direction.
Living with Agoraphobia and Panic Attacks (9:51)
McG opens up about his struggles with agoraphobia, how it affected his career, including being fired from Superman Returns, and his path to live with the challenge.
Music Videos and Style in Filmmaking (21:49)
Kevin and McG discuss how music videos have influenced filmmakers like McG, Spike Jonze, Michael Bay, and David Fincher, helping them develop unique styles and voices in the industry.
The Secret to Success: Audience Testing (24:08)
McG reveals one of his secrets to success: working with Kevin Goetz and his audience testing process, which has helped him improve his films and connect with viewers.
Incorporating Audience Feedback on We Are Marshall (29:48)
McG recalls a specific audience feedback moment that led to a significant change in We Are Marshall, highlighting the importance of listening to, learning from, and respecting the audience.
Mentors and Influences (36:37)
McG discusses his primary filmmaking influences, including Alfred Hitchcock and Quentin Tarantino.
Kevin Goetz and McG explore the director's journey in the entertainment industry, his personal struggles, and the importance of audience feedback in the filmmaking process. The interview highlights the unique bond between the filmmaker and the audience researcher, showcasing how their collaboration can elevate a film's success. The pair close by discussing McG’s upcoming projects, Way of the Warrior Kid and Uglies. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. We look forward to bringing you more revelations from behind the scenes next time on Don't Kill the Messenger!
Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: McG
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes, DG Entertainment
For more information about McG:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McG
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcgfilm/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0629334/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website: