In this episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with Pete Campbell, Creative Director at Wild Card Creative Group and one of the most respected editors and mentors in the trailer industry. From his humble beginnings as a student and babysitter to cutting award-winning trailers and mentoring the next generation of creatives, Pete shares his journey and the craft behind some of the most iconic trailers in Hollywood.
What We Discuss:
How Pete transitioned from screenwriter to editor to creative director
Why WDA was a launching pad for so many successful creatives
What it takes to make a trailer that resonates emotionally and commercially
Behind-the-scenes insights into campaigns like The Martian, The Post, and Severance
How Pete balances creative intuition with collaboration and leadership
Episode Highlights:
1:00 – Pete talks about his Mad Men namesake and early days in advertising
4:00 – From Loyola Marymount to babysitting Kevin Williamson's twins
11:00 – Cutting a spec trailer for Kung Fu Hustle and launching a career
16:00 – Why Pete joined AV Squad and how it shaped his creative evolution
26:00 – Creative directing as mentorship, not micromanagement
34:00 – The story behind The Martian trailer and how quiet moments amplify impact
45:00 – Editing The Post and Nick Temple's critical advice
51:00 – The joy of working on The Studio and blending highbrow and madcap comedy
60:00 – Pete's favorite trailers by other editors and what he learned from them
Featured Quotes:
"Your job as a creative director is to see that 85% and not put your thumbprints all over it." – Pete Campbell
"I've had so many moments where I think I'm terrible, and then I pray, and somehow an idea comes that saves the day." – Pete Campbell
"Think different. It sounds so easy, but it's one of the hardest things to do in this industry." – Pete Campbell
Resources Mentioned:
Pete Campbell on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pete-campbell-19629a21
Call to Action:
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