Ep #27: John McTiernan, Lessons from a Legend

Some of you may know that just after I sold my first screenplay, I was hired by John McTiernan, the legendary director of movies like DIE HARD, PREDATOR, and THE HUNT FOR RED OCTOBER to rewrite a script with him.

I spent many months on his remote ranch in Wyoming over the following year and it's hard to begin to explain what an impact this experience had on me as a screenwriter and director. 

In this episode, I share the story of how this extraordinary experience came about and most importantly, I share 8 vital lessons that I learned from him.

Even if you're not the biggest fan of his work, I guarantee these lessons will inspire and empower you on your path to being a great storyteller.

Lesson 1: Hire from your heart.  
Lesson 2: Identify the classical archetype of your story.  
Lesson 3: Trust the people you work with. 
Lesson 4: Make your action lines pop.
Lesson 5: Use the tools you need to tell your story (and screw the rules). 
Lesson 6: Create an environment where your collaborators feel valued and safe to contribute. 
Lesson 7: Watch old movies, a lot of old movies - and study their shot lists.  
Lesson 8: Ask yourself: “What would Bunuel do?”

My screenwriting course, Write Your Screenplay in 8 Weeks, will be opening for registration soon - get on the waitlist HERE.