Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun
Guest: Brock Heasley, Writer and Director of "The Shift"
Episode Overview:
In this compelling episode of "The Successful Screenwriter" podcast, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Brock Heasley, the creative mind behind the buzz-worthy film, "The Shift." A project that started from a small blog post during the MySpace era, "The Shift" has grown into a full-fledged cinematic experience, gaining traction across major social media platforms and starring renowned actors like Neil McDonald, Sean Astin, and John Billingsley.Key Topics Discussed:
- The Genesis of "The Shift": Brock shares the journey from a blog post to a feature film, highlighting the role of social media in its early promotion.
- Transition into Filmmaking: Brock recounts his pivot from a graphic design career to filmmaking, influenced by a lifelong passion for movies and a significant job loss.
- Collaboration with Angel Studios: The unique crowdfunding and guild-member decision-making process at Angel Studios that brought "The Shift" to a wider audience.
- Design and Casting Insights: Insights into the design process for the movie's iconic "Lancers" and the strategic casting choices that elevated the film.
- The Renaissance of Faith-Based Films: A discussion on the evolving landscape of faith-based cinema, emphasizing higher production values and a broader appeal.
- The Core Message of "The Shift": An exploration of the film's thematic focus on suffering, hope, and unexpected outcomes, grounded in personal experiences of loss and resilience.
Watch "The Shift" on various platforms including Angel Studios' app, YouTube, Google Play, Amazon, Apple, and Voodoo to experience the multifaceted journey of its protagonist and the innovative storytelling that Brock Heasley brings to the screen.
Subscribe for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the screenwriting and filmmaking industry.
Conclusion:
"The Shift" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, resilience in the face of adversity, and the collaborative spirit of indie filmmaking. Brock Heasley's journey from a graphic designer to a celebrated filmmaker offers inspiration to aspiring screenwriters and directors, proving that with passion, creativity, and a bit of faith, anything is possible in the cinematic world.
