Brad Furman (Director/Producer/Writer) on his Journey from the Basketball Court to Film Sets

Don't Kill the Messenger with Movie Research Expert Kevin Goetz

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In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz welcomes director and producer Brad Furman, known for films like The Lincoln Lawyer, The Infiltrator, Runner Runner, The Take, and City of Lies. The episode opens with Furman reading a touching tribute letter he wrote after the passing of his friend, filmmaker John Singleton, setting the tone for an intimate conversation about perseverance, mentorship, and the evolution of his career.
From Basketball to Film School (03:48)
Furman shares his transition from college basketball at Emory to pursuing film at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, discussing how his competitive sports background shaped his approach to filmmaking.
Early Career and Notable Mentors (17:22)
The conversation explores Furman's early career experiences, including working as Julia Roberts' assistant for three years, and learning from industry veterans like Cis Corman at Barbara Streisand's production company.
A Family Affair with Shirley MacLaine (29:24)
Furman discusses People Not Places, a project 12 years in the making that began with his mother Ellen Furman's screenplay specifically written for Shirley MacLaine. The film, starring MacLaine and Stephen Dorff, became Furman's "most beautiful experience" in filmmaking.
City of Lies and Perseverance (33:05)
Furman talks about getting City of Lies (starring Johnny Depp) released despite numerous obstacles, including corporate bankruptcies, the pandemic, and industry challenges.
The Lincoln Lawyer Journey (37:33)
Furman shares his regret about leaving Lakeshore Entertainment after the success of The Lincoln Lawyer. He reflects on lessons learned from working with Tom Rosenberg and the challenges of navigating studio politics.
Current Projects (45:30)
The episode concludes with Furman reflecting on his growth as both a filmmaker and father. He shares how his experiences have brought him to what he calls his "Michael Jordan years" - his prime as a filmmaker.
From his early days making The Take with John Leguizamo, through the breakthrough success of The Lincoln Lawyerwith Matthew McConaughey, to battling to release City of Lies with Johnny Depp, and now creating intimate character studies like People Not Places with Shirley MacLaine, Brad Furman’s career demonstrates remarkable range and resilience.
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: Brad Furman
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more information about Brad Furman:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brad_Furman
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1026778/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradfurman/?hl=en
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: @KevinGoetz360
Linked In @Kevin Goetz
Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com