Production and Writing Related Talks and Seminars

Joe has written, produced, and directed seven theatrical films cumulatively grossing well over $600 million worldwide (in today's dollars), yet his highest production budget was slightly less than seven million dollars. So he knows how to make a dollar work like six while maintaining terrific production values and telling great stories. His canine superstar Benji was introduced in a film costing less than one million dollars (1974), yet the result is a floppy-eared mutt who is known and loved throughout the world.

Joe has directed the independent marketing and distribution of most of his films, giving him a unique insight and perspective into the entire process. He has taught direction at Southern Methodist University and has chaired many writing seminars and is a strong advocate for the importance of editing in the process. In addition to his theatrical films, he has produced, written, and directed several prime time specials and a Saturday Morning series for television.

An unusual interest and insight into the technical side of the process stirred Joe to produce the first-ever series to appear on network television photographed on half-inch tape, now the standard of the industry. His latest film, Benji Off the Leash, was produced digitally using the Panavision/Sony 24p High Definition process which was then transferred to film for theatrical release. He has much to say about the pro's and cons of this experience.

Joe is the first to point out that he is an independent in the truest sense of the word and only knows the mainstream Hollywood industry from the outside looking in. He is a very humble and giving speaker, with question-and-answer sessions often going on for hours. In conversation with you, Joe will tailor presentations to your needs and/or curriculum and can cover a wide spectrum, or be specifically focused. He can restrain himself to less than an hour, or "run on" for a week.

Writers: It's all About Story - No matter the medium -- screenplay, teleplay, short story, novel, stage play -- no matter the form -- fiction or non-fiction, comedy or drama -- a writer, first and foremost, must tell a story. A story that will involve an audience emotionally and never turn them loose! Joe combines inspiration to greatness with practical insights and approaches to character and conflict. He deals with the rejection that always comes and how to handle it. And he weaves the personal tales that have filled his journey as a writer of screenplays, novels, inspirational books, and children's stories. An exciting presentation for beginning and seasoned writers which lights the fires and provides the substance to create the strong, involving characters and combustible, dynamic relationships that inhabit great stories.

Behind the Scenes on Benji Off the Leash

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