Show notes
This week we’re breaking out of the non-fiction world to talk fictionalization with Oscar-nominated writer/director Greg Kwedar. Fresh off the awards trail with last year’s SING SING, Greg shares insights and ideas about turning documentary style research into based-on-a-true-story truth. It’s a light-hearted walk through Hyde Park, with another stop at a shady creek, as we dig into Greg’s approach to creative partnership (he’s 4-films deep with collaborator Clint Bentley) — and catering his directing approach for different acting styles. Step with us into a free-roaming conversation about creative resilience and the role of friendship and adventure that drives Greg’s process. 00:00 A Stroll Through Hyde Park 00:49 Introducing Greg Quedar 03:00 Greg's Journey from Accounting to Filmmaking 10:37 The Inspiration Behind 'Sing Sing' 15:01 Exploring the Creative Process 27:36 The Importance of Colleagueship and Collaboration 28:31 Challenges in the Writing Process 29:35 The Lightning Bolt Moments 30:00 The Role of Friendship in Storytelling 31:31 The Joy and Struggles of Filmmaking 33:15 Preparing for New Projects 35:07 Working with Different Actor Processes 37:57 Documentary Filmmaking Insights 40:15 Reflections on the Creative Journey 47:26 Gateway Films and Inspirations 50:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans