Interview with Screenwriter Scott Barkan (@Barky)

In this brand new episode, Smish welcomes back Scott Barkan (aka @Barky), a Philadelphia based screenwriter who has written two produced screenplays with writing partner, Greg Zehentner. Together they wrote I’M JUST FUCKING WITH YOU, produced by Blumhouse & Hulu, and BLEED. Scott walks us through his career as a writer, from meeting his writing partner, starting a production company, to developing their newest script, THE SUN ALWAYS SETS IN THE WEST with Lionsgate & Danny’s McBride’s company, Rough House Pictures. They discuss how Scott & Greg found success from pivoting from comedy to horror, finding a mentor, and using the Plus One method of writing.

Scott gives the invaluable advice --- “Make bold choices” and “Don’t take no for an answer” --- with his story about showing up uninvited on the set of their movie. They also discuss the probability of getting discovered through screenwriting contests!

Highlights:

(1:20) How Scott & Greg began their career

(15:17) Finding a mentor

(18:34) On the set of I’M JUST FUCKING WITH YOU

(30:48) Writing with a partner

(36:00) The Plus One method & starting a production company

(57:51) What’s next for them?

(1:01:15) Can a writer be discovered in a contest?

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You can find Scott on the Discord server: @Barky.

Get Exclusive Extras

VIP members get a bonus segment with Scott. We learn about the one that got away and how that lead to his relationship with Will Smith’s production company. Scott also reveals the one thing he hopes to accomplish in his career before he dies!

More about Scott

IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1701134/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_5
Twitter: https://twitter.com/scottbarkan?lang=en
Finds Scott’s music: https://www.scottbarkanmusic.com

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