Screenwriter Karen Schaler discusses how to strategically target the right producers, ensuring your Christmas movie idea lands in the hands of those most likely to bring it to life. Discover the importance of researching production companies that align with your story's theme, how to tailor your pitch to their specific preferences, and why your suc…

Christmas script ideas are hard to come up with. Screenwriter and development exec, Cara Russell offers tips on how to generate more ideas. Learn why you need dozens (70!) of original Christmas script loglines. In this episode, we dive into Cara Russell's journey to screenwriting success and her invaluable advice for aspiring Christmas screenwriter…

Unlock the secrets to crafting standout Christmas spec scripts with insights from successful screenwriter Timothy Kuryak. Learn genre innovation, representation strategies, portfolio building, film deconstruction, and tapping into international markets to elevate your writing career. For a full transcript, the show notes and your action checklist -…

Screenwriter Isabel Dréan, discusses why a holiday script with heartfelt storytelling has more power than original plots in creating memorable Christmas movies. Join us as we dive into the secrets of successful holiday movies, discussing how strong emotional connections and heartfelt stories resonate more deeply with audiences than unique plots. Wh…

In this episode, we delve into tailoring screenplays for networks like Hallmark, Lifetime, and Netflix, highlighting how understanding their brand and tone can boost script acceptance. We cover key strategies for building industry relationships and the significance of emotional character development in scripts. Learn how to adapt your screenplay to…

Screenwriter, producer and director Christine Conradt shares insights on scriptwriting, effective pitching, and the evolving Christmas movie market. Controversially she reveals how the protagonist’s lessons learned is more important than plot resolution. The show notes, including the transcript and your checklist of actions to take for this episode…

James Temple, an independent writer, director, and producer, explores the art of using the DIY approach to making Christmas movies. He emphasizes the balance between meeting genre expectations and introducing fresh storytelling elements. James advocates for maintaining control over his projects by self-financing and leveraging connections to secure…

Lifetime’s VP of Scripted Content, Sapna Vyas, shares the success formula behind enduring Christmas movie hits. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 14 Sapna Vyas, Vice President, Lifetime Scripted ContentShow Notes HOST: Caryn McCann Website: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristmasMovieScre…

Australian-based producer Steve Jaggi reveals an easy way for writers to connect with producers and to write exactly what producers want. Steve's key advice to writers is to connect with producers and understand their needs before you write that script. He discusses the need for writers to understand their target audience and align scripts with net…

Enduring 40 Years of No's for a Christmas Yes Screenwriter Brian Ruberry found success after a 40-year slog of rejections. He advises writers that post-first sale, you may be able to get work based just on a synopsis versus writing an entire script. Additionally, he highlights script competitions can offer valuable feedback but warns some are just …

Holiday Script finished? Now what? Screenwriter Jordan Imiola discusses connecting with producers, turbo charging your productivity and the pros and cons of paid screenwriting services. Whether you’re a seasoned screenwriter or just starting, this podcast offers actionable insights to help you succeed in the merry marketplace of Christmas scripts. …

Successful screenwriter Erin Rodman reveals unconventional yet effective strategies for success in the Christmas movie industry. Erin shares her journey, emphasizing the paramount importance of authenticity. Erin advocates staying true to one's unique voice, citing her success in attracting buyers despite initially penning an R-rated comedy. The Ch…

Seasoned professionals in the Christmas movie industry offer crucial advice for screenwriters. Insights include the necessity of aligning scripts with market demands and the importance of acknowledging and pursuing one's writing ambitions without delay. Contributors also stress the benefits of creating passive income streams and understanding the e…

Successful screenwriter Ansley Gordon offers tips on how to get distributors to reveal what they want in Christmas scripts. She advises on how to add pop culture to your script to make it shine. Ansley discusses: Analyzing produced movies/scripts for insights. Gathering intel from execs; generating fitting ideas. Infusing fresh pop-culture elements…

Peter Sullivan, Producer, Writer, and Director at Hybrid LLC, shares insights on crafting captivating yuletide tales that break conventions. Valuable advice for writers aiming to stand out in a crowded market. Our top takeaways include: 1. The remarkable openness of executives to fresh ideas. 2. The importance of standing out amidst the sea of Chri…

Screenwriter Eirene Donohue discusses infusing your personal experiences into scripts for a unique perspective. She offers out-of-the-box advice on starting a passive income plan. She discusses the power of resilience and a life rich with diverse encounters. This episode is your guide to standing out and thriving in the evergreen world of screenwri…

Samantha Herman, a successful screenwriter of 10 Hallmark movies, discusses breaking into the industry and navigating script commissions. She also explores networking, the impact of AI, and offers advice to aspiring screenwriters. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 5 Samantha Herman – Screenwriter / Producer Show Notes HOST: Caryn M…

Paula Tiberius is a screenwriter, director, and writing coach. She explains your screenplay’s edge is unique characters and settings. She unravels the secrets to crafting captivating stories that resonate with audiences and get your scripts noticed on major streaming platforms. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting, Paula's insights are…

Get ready for a festive episode with Charles Shyer, a writer, producer, and director. Charles challenges the status quo, arguing that Christmas movies don't have to be tied to the holiday season. Instead, they can stand on their own merits. He offers a breath of fresh air in the world of holiday cinema. Charles will share tips on injecting new life…

Author and screenwriter Jennifer Snow discusses how to make your Christmas script more original, and how Christmas movies with a bit of action are becoming popular. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 2 Jennifer Snow, Author, and Screenwriter Show Notes HOST: Caryn McCann Website: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com Facebook: http…

Scott Kirkpatrick, Executive Vice President of Co-Productions and Distribution of Nicely Entertainment discusses how Christmas movie screenwriters can stand out from the competition, how writers need to be entrepreneurs, different outlets for your script, and much more. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 01 Scott Kirkpatrick, EVP of…

We delve into the dynamic world of Hong Kong cinema and the factors shaping its future. Our guest, Bizhan Tong, is a Hong Kong-based filmmaker who shares valuable insights on the industry's current landscape. We discuss AI in screenwriting, the need for Hong Kong production incentives, and the conundrum of Hong Kong's lack of bankable young stars. …

In this last episode, we combine the best advice from 2022. Guests discuss in hindsight, what they would have done differently. These experts offer tips on co-productions, the perils of doing business with friends, the importance of foreign markets, choosing projects, and the elusive path to your dream job. The Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – E…

Caroline Dillingham, CEO of Wavelets Entertainment discusses ways to write for the Asian market and how to write an Asian protagonist correctly. Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 52 Caroline Dillingham, CEO of Wavelets Entertainment Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: https://chinahollywoodgreenlight.com/podcasts-2/ Sister website: htt…

Talent Manager Conrad Sun discusses how Asian stories offer producers an overlooked financial opportunity. He explains why your script isn’t getting traction and how to stand out. He tells how one script earned his client over a million dollars. Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 051 Conrad Sun, Talent Manager, Meridian Artists Show Notes …

Susan Ferris, talent manager and CEO of the Bohemia Group represents more than 500 clients globally. She discusses where the opportunities are for Asian-American actors. Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 50 Susan Ferris, CEO, and Manager of Bohemia Group Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: https://chinahollywoodgreenlight.com/podcasts-…

Sidharth Jain Founder of The Story Ink - India’s biggest book to screen adaptation company talks about India’s explosive growth. He discusses the constant search for writers and why India needs more American producers. Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 049 Sidharth Jain, founder of The Story Ink Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: http…

Producer Elizabeth Turner Fox discusses tax-rebates, getting meetings with sales agents and what sells in Asia. Producer Elizabeth Turner Fox has branched out from China and is finding opportunities in South East Asia. She talks about how networking at online film markets has enabled her to find business partners. Additionally she advises having a …

Christopher Chen is a creative director/producer who works in both China and South East Asia. He discusses the growing markets outside China’s borders. He offers a solution to China’s closing door. The Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 47 Christopher Chen, Creative Director / Producer The Monk Studios, Beijing Office Show Notes Host: Cary…

Douglas Montgomery, CEO and Founder of Global Connects Media discusses the rise of foreign content in the US and how Hollywood’s old way of doing business must adapt. The Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 46 Douglas Montgomery, CEO / Founder – Global Connects Media Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: https://chinahollywoodgreenlight.co…

Nikk Mitchell discusses the challenges and advantages of a Westerner running his own VR company in China. He also discusses the pros and cons of being a Westerner in China. The Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 045 Nikk Mitchell, Owner of FXG – a VR company in China Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: https://chinahollywoodgreenlight.c…

Taiwanese producer Patrick Huang discusses how to find projects, market intel, what the mainland Chinese studios are looking for, and when you shouldn’t do a co-production. Plus resources to find market intel, projects, producers, and advice. The Asia- Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 44 Patrick Mao Huang, Managing Director, Flash Forward Ent…

Kevin Geiger has worked for Disney in Burbank and Beijing. He discusses China’s changing media environment, the increasing difficulty of co-productions, and of getting money out of China. He now believes South East Asia is where the action is, and works from Taipei as an independent producer, professor, and consultant. The Asia-Hollywood Greenlight…

International Business Consultant Rosalie Lutfiyya shares insight on finding opportunities in China film, protecting your IP and why you should avoid co-productions. Rosalie is a natural connector and brings the right people together which facilitates East-West partnerships. The Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 42 Rosalie Lutfiyya, Inter…

Where does a filmmaker look for investors? Besides your friendly banker and rich relatives – another option is crowdfunding. Find out how to crowdfund your film in China. Know the major players. Understand the differences between crowdfunding in China and the United States. Recognize the pros and cons. See this episode's webpage for a list of key p…

We’ve condensed the top 10 advice tips from 2021. Execs offer insights on finding story ideas, writing for the China market, the benefits of working with a Chinese writing partner, pitching, attracting producers, and much more. The Asia-Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 40 Best Advice for 2021 Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: https://chi…

Documentary filmmaker Luo Tong 罗彤 discusses why film crews should hire more women, what to do when your investor and director don’t see eye to eye and how to benefit from job rejections. China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 039 Documentary Executive Producer, Luo Tong 罗彤 Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: The China List – where Hollywoo…

Producer and tech whiz Keith Collea advises on how to find story ideas. He shares the right way to pitch and how to attract film producers. China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 38 Keith Collea, Producer, Technical Producer, VFX Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: The China List – where Hollywood and China meet https://chnlist.com/ Facebo…

Scott Einbinder is a producer, executive, investor and China consultant who discusses the challenges of Chinese financing but has encouraging words about western educated Chinese executives. See the episode page for my 3 key points and 3 takeaways China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 37 Scott Einbinder - producer, executive, investor and co…

Davy Williams – an American actor, writer and producer talks about the difference between acting in Hollywood and China. He also gives advice on getting steady work and the challenge of Chinese distribution. Go to the episode page to read my 3 key points and 3 takeaways. China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 36 Actor, Writer, Producer Davy W…

Marc Handler is a screenwriter, producer and international consultant with American and Chinese studio experience. He reveals how having a Chinese writing partner enables him to get hired in China. He also discusses China bashing, China’s talent management problem and possible solutions. For a list of my three key points and three takeaways go to h…

Game Writer Jordan Defazio talks about the opportunity for westerners in the China market. He discusses the freedom game writing offers over screenwriting. He also shares that foreigners don't need to move to China to get a job with a Chinese game maker. China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode #34 Jordan DeFazio - Game Writer and Screenwriter …

Chris Collins is an American action actor and action director based in Hong Kong. He talks about his unexpected lucky break of being discovered by a Hong Kong studio. He discusses the difference between Hollywood and Chinese financing. He advises on what it takes to get hired in Chinese films. China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 33 Chris C…

Producer and Distribution Exec David L. Suarez talks about the challenge of finding good scripts. He offers advice on getting introductions to Chinese producers. Due to the pandemic, he predicts distributors will face an overcrowded marketplace for the next three years. But he has a strategy to beat the market and expand in China. China Hollywood G…

Controversial filmmaker Chris D. Nebe’s documentaries have won awards and attracted death threats. His pro-China views on geopolitics has won him fans and enemies. He talks about the power of the Chinese internet, making documentaries in China and producing films that crossover to both Hollywood and China. China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episo…

American lawyer and China media expert, Jesse Weiner gives advice on how to protect your IP in China, what you need to attract a Chinese financier, and hope for a reset of US-China relations. Jesse Weiner Co-Managing Partner, Head of Entertainment & Media Practice at YK Law https://www.yklaw.us talks about the danger of slapdash deals, the power (o…

Todays' guest - Chen Xu has worked for both Hollywood and Chinese studios. He gives advice on dealing with getting notes. He highlights how China and Hollywood's script development process is different. He also shares insight on the success of American comedies that have adapted by foreign TV companies and have found huge success. China Hollywood G…

L.A. based Chinese Film Executive Ms. Sammie Hao (郝思文) discusses repairing relations between Hollywood and China, the fallout of bad Chinese money in Hollywood, and what will be in demand next year. China Hollywood Greenlight Podcast – Episode 28 L.A. based Film Executive, Sammie Hao 郝思文 Show Notes Host: Caryn McCann Website: The China List – where…

Justin K. Muller is the Managing Director of the International Development Division - Studio Operations for Xiangshan Global Studios. He talks about bring Chinese studios up to Hollywood standards. Justin explains how infrastructure, not art will revolutionize the Chinese film and TV landscape. He shares details on his multi-studio platform which i…

Alan Noel Vega is a producer / stunt action director. We talk about the effect of Covid-19 on the film industry, the advantages of working with smaller players and what to do when shooting a film, your prop guy gets arrested for bank robbery. Noel’s company, AMG Films, is a registered official China co-production entity. He shares his insight on th…