In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz interviews Shane Black, one of Hollywood's highest-paid screenwriters, who redefined action films with witty dialogue, dark humor, and unforgettable characters. From Lethal Weapon to The Nice Guys, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and Iron Man 3, Shane discusses his journey from a self-described "oddball" to a filmmaking powerhouse.
Pittsburgh Roots and Early Influences (02:55)
Born in Pittsburgh, Black shares how his father's printing business and bookshelf of detective novels sparked his love for "tough guy literature" that would later influence his writing style.
Overcoming Personal Struggles (08:00)
Black candidly discusses his battles with OCD and alcoholism. He reveals how he transformed these challenges into creative strengths and encourages others to "just lean into being weird."
The Psychology Behind His Characters (12:04)
Black explains how his characters often represent different aspects of his own psychology. He emphasizes that truly compelling writing comes from creating characters with authentic emotional DNA that resonates with the writer's own experiences.
The Creation of Lethal Weapon (15:32)
Black describes Lethal Weapon as "an urban western" with Mel Gibson's character representing "a Frankenstein kept in a cage" - a Vietnam veteran reviled by society but needed when violence intrudes on everyday life.
Working with Hollywood Icons (27:13)
Black shares insights about working with legends like Richard Donner, Tony Scott, Joel Silver, and Robert Downey Jr.
From Writer to Director (40:06)
Black explains his transition to directing to have more creative control over his work. Black adds that directing allows him to move beyond returning to the blank page and into a more collaborative aspect of filmmaking.
Latest Project: Play Dirty (52:01)
Black discusses working with Mark Wahlberg, and adapting Donald Westlake's Parker series for Amazon, calling Westlake "the king" among mystery writers and explaining his lifelong admiration for these stories he first read at age 12.
Throughout the conversation, Black offers a masterclass on screenwriting in Hollywood. Black and Kevin Goetz discover numerous personal connections, creating an unusually intimate portrait of a filmmaker who transformed Hollywood's action genre. His journey from a bookish child to acclaimed filmmaker serves as proof that leaning into one's unique perspective can lead to extraordinary creative achievements.
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. We look forward to bringing you more revelations from behind the scenes next time on Don't Kill the Messenger!
Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Shane Black
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, Nick Nunez, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Shane Black:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shane_Black
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000948/
Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/director/shane-black/
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram