Persistence of Vision Colin Levy, Frank Ponce, and Sean Thomas

In this episode, Colin, Frank and Sean discuss their experiences with writing and editing their first screenplays. They share stories of their early attempts at writing scripts and shooting short films. They talk about the importance of outlining and formatting screenplays, as well as the process of rewriting and editing. 


They also discuss their collaborative writing processes and the challenges and benefits of working with a co-writer. Sean shares his strategies for taking breaks and approaching the rewriting process with fresh eyes. They also share the importance of receiving feedback and making changes based on that feedback. 


Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into the process of writing and refining screenplays. Sean describes his script analysis process, including structure passes and scene-by-scene analysis. Colin shares his more fluid approach to writing and revising. They also discuss the importance of choosing the right people for feedback and the value of constructive criticism. 


Finally, they touch on the importance of understanding the market and researching agents, producers, and competitions that align with your screenplay. Frank shares various aspects of the writing and pitching process. He emphasizes the importance of being strategic in writing, focusing on smaller, more feasible projects that align with personal goals. He also highlights the significance of crafting a compelling pitch that establishes a personal connection to the material and resonates with the audience. Sean also touches on copyright and IP protection, emphasizing the automatic copyright that comes with creating a work and the importance of obtaining rights for adaptations. 


Lastly, they highlight the value of networking and building connections in the industry, showcasing the power of genuine connections and supporting others in the creative community.


Takeaways

+ Develop a structured script analysis process that includes both macro and micro elements.
+ Choose the right people for feedback, including those who are at or above your level as writers.
+ Be open to constructive criticism and use it to improve your script.
+ Research the market and understand the preferences and trends in the industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
00:50 First Screenplays
03:13 Outlining and Formatting Screenplays
04:17 Rewriting and Editing First Screenplays
05:25 Refining Scenes and Cutting Redundancy
06:34 The Importance of Outlining
07:24 Collaborative Writing Process
08:21 Writing with a Co-Writer
09:40 Writing Schedule and Process
11:07 Taking a Break and Fresh Eyes
12:21 First Screenplay Success
14:50 Collaborative Writing Process
18:03 Writing Schedule and Process
19:23 Writing in Chronological Order
22:02 Receiving Feedback and Making Changes
24:38 Marking Up Scripts and Making Changes
26:21 Systematic Approach to Rewriting
28:50 Sean's Script Analysis Process
31:04 Different Approaches to Writing and Revising
36:37 Choosing the Right People for Feedback
39:45 Understanding the Market
01:03:38 Writing with a Strategic Approach
01:06:10 Writing Small, Good Scripts
01:09:17 The Importance of Pitching
01:12:06 Crafting a Compelling Pitch
01:23:04 Understanding Copyright and IP
01:28:25 The Value of Networking and Building Connections
01:38:09 Final Thoughts


INSTAGRAM
https://instagram.com/persistencepod

In this episode, Colin, Frank and Sean discuss their experiences in the world of YouTube. They share stories of navigating the complexities of content creation, and the convergence between YouTube and traditional filmmaking. 


They also talk about their most memorable videos and collaborations with other creators. They explore the divide between YouTube and the film industry and discuss the blurring of lines in their own projects. 


Sean talks about his rise in producing for major creators starting from his early years with the Fine Brothers and MatPat. He reminisces on his first viral hit with Screen Junkies getting Morgan Freeman to recite the lyrics of “The Fox (What Does The Fox Say?)” by Ylvis.


Colin discusses his journey into YouTube to showcase his cinematic short films from “Sintel” to “The Time Traveling Sheriff.” He talks about the inspiration behind the concept, the challenges faced during production, and the importance of location scouting and logistics. They also discuss the potential for a series or movie adaptation and the creative constraints of working with Zach King's character. Colin reflects on the lessons learned from the project and the balance between passion and self-care. 


Finally, Frank opens up on his experience working with MrBeast and the freedom of creativity in his productions. Frank touches upon his trip to Antarctica and the mystery of the pyramid there. On a personal level, he recalls the impact of his work on creating real positive change in the world. 


They also explore the future of YouTube and the challenges faced by content creators and emphasize the importance of embracing imperfection and being true to oneself in the creative process.

Reference Links:
The First South Park Short Film


Deadpool Test Short


Morgan Freeman Reads The Fox by Ylvis


Sintel


The Time Traveling Sheriff - Zach King Western Short Film


1,000 Blind People See For The First Time


I Survived 50 Hours In Antarctica 

Summary

Colin, Frank and Sean discuss the potential of virtual reality and immersive experiences, including VR games and 360-degree video. They debate the future of immersive content and the challenges it presents for storytelling. The conversation also touches on the idea of second screen viewing and the limitations of current VR technology. 
In main part of the conversation, they discuss the importance and impact of mentors in their filmmaking careers. Frank shares stories about crazy segway tours in Savannah, Georgia and the lessons they learned from his first film mentor, Stitch Crisp, a professional prop master. Sean talks about the creative liberties taken in true story adaptations and the advice they received from his screenwriter mentor, Jeff Nathanson, who co-wrote, Catch Me If You Can. 

Later in the conversation, they discuss the challenges of navigating strategic business decisions in the film industry and the importance of understanding the ins and outs of Hollywood. They share personal experiences of being lowballed and betrayed by producers and emphasize the need to protect personal information in negotiations. They also highlight the value of mentorship and the impact of living with and learning from successful filmmakers. Colin discusses the importance of creating a collaborative and supportive environment on set and the different approaches to filmmaking after experiencing behind the scenes of Everything Everywhere All At Once.

They conclude by reflecting on the beauty of the filmmaking process.


Takeaways
Mentors play a crucial role in shaping and guiding filmmakers' careers.Attention to detail is essential in the world of props and production design and can be applied in stories and life.When adapting true stories, it's important to balance the truth with the need for entertainment.Mentors can provide valuable advice and guidance in negotiating deals and making strategic business decisions. Navigating strategic business decisions in the film industry requires experience and perspective.Personal information, such as financial situation, should be kept private to avoid being leveraged against you in negotiations.Mentorship is valuable for aspiring filmmakers and can provide guidance and support.Creating a collaborative and supportive environment on set is important for fostering creativity and morale.The filmmaking process can be challenging but ultimately rewarding, and learning from bad movies can be a valuable experience.

LINKS
Colin's shorts
My Grandfather’s Memory Book | Op-Docs
Skywatch

IG
@filmclub.fm
 @colinlevy
 @frankponce
 @stscribe

SUMMARY

In this episode, Frank, Colin, and Sean discuss their journeys into filmmaking and the challenges they faced in selling their scripts. They emphasize the importance of being your own advocate and the need to have a big swinging d (a prominent figure) attached to your project. They also share their experiences with selling their projects and the lessons they learned along the way. 

The conversation explores the process of pitching and selling projects in the entertainment industry. It covers topics such as getting meetings with production companies, the importance of first look and overall deals, pitching to production companies, the rollercoaster of pitching, teaming up with a producer and director, competition and adaptation, the challenges of production, the journey of a filmmaker, the value of spec commercials, creating marketing materials for projects, the importance of passion and emotional connection, navigating development hell, the role of money in finding the right home, the challenges of pitching, the importance of a good pitch, the value of a big swinging d, and improving pitching skills. 

In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of the filmmaking process, including pitching, financing, and distribution. They emphasize the importance of performance and enthusiasm in presentations, as well as the challenges of memorization and preparation. They share their experiences pitching the film Skywatch and offer insights into crafting effective pitches. 

They also touch on the value of scripts and the discrepancy in deal value between shorts and scripts. They discuss the benefits of creating bidding wars and the potential impact of film grants. The hosts conclude by sharing their recent film inspirations, including the movies Talk to Me and Dune, as well as the documentary Jodorowsky's Dune.

TAKEAWAYS

Being your own advocate is crucial in the filmmaking industry.

Having a big swinging d (a prominent figure) attached to your project can help attract attention and open doors.

Selling a script or project takes time, persistence, and a willingness to adapt.

The path to success in the film industry is unique for each individual. 

Having someone who can send your script to production companies and set up meetings is crucial for getting your project noticed.

First look and overall deals with studios can give production companies an advantage in getting their projects seen.

Pitching to production companies involves sitting down with executives and pitching your story, often in a high-pressure environment.

The journey of pitching can be a rollercoaster, with both successes and failures along the way.

Adapting and pivoting your project may be necessary to find the right home and get it made.

Creating marketing materials, such as spec commercials and pitch decks, can help sell your project and make it stand out.

Passion and emotional connection to the material can make a difference in getting your project greenlit.

The development process can be challenging, with many voices and opinions involved.

Money can be a reflection of a buyer's values and commitment to a project.

Improving pitching skills and finding ways to connect with the audience are important for success in the