Barely Living The Dream
Barely Living The Dream
Mel House
We Pitched Jackie Chan... and It Actually Worked! | BLTD 58 with Lee Anthony Smith & Gregory Bradley
1 hour 15 minutes Posted Jul 10, 2026 at 9:00 am.
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What does it really take to break into Hollywood?
In this episode of **Barely Living the Dream**, filmmakers and screenwriters **Lee Anthony Smith** and **Gregory J. Bradley** share the incredible true story of how two aspiring writers from Chicago went from film school and late-night writing sessions to landing major Hollywood deals.
They reveal the behind-the-scenes journey that led to the action film **War**, starring **Jet Li** and **Jason Statham**, including the unexpected twists, heartbreaking setbacks, and hard-earned lessons that shaped their careers.
In this episode, you'll discover:
* 🎬 How they broke into Hollywood with no industry connections
* 🥋 The unbelievable story of pitching Jackie Chan
* ✍️ How *War* came together with Jet Li and Jason Statham
* 🎥 What really happens after you sell a screenplay
* 💰 Hollywood negotiations, studio politics, and creative battles
* 🎭 Why great scripts often change before reaching the screen
* 🎬 The highs and lows of building a career as a professional screenwriter
* 🚀 Advice for aspiring filmmakers, writers, and storytellers
Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, screenwriter, or simply love hearing incredible behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories, this conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to survive—and succeed—in the film industry.
👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and share it with someone chasing their creative dream.
Noir The Film on Youtube: @noirthefilm830
Greg's YouTube channel: @gregorybradley5630
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