Welcome to The Screenwriting Life, a podcast where Oscar-nominated writer Meg LeFauve and Emmy-nominated writer Lorien McKenna discuss not only the craft and business of Screenwriting, but also the emotional life: the ups and downs of being a creative, to remind you that you are not alone and to keep writing.
Rian Johnson (KNIVES OUT, LOOPER, STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI) joins Meg for a deep craft conversation about balancing bold, high-concept ideas with intimate emotional storytelling.
Rian breaks down how character – not plot mechanics – is the engine behind mystery, world-building, and genre, from crafting unforgettable character introductions to using theme as a dramatic misdirection tool. They also explore how emotion drives high-concept rules, how to write suspects with clarity, and why outlining is essential when juggling complex narratives.
A masterclass in marrying big ideas with human stakes from one of today’s most distinctive storytellers.
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Looking for more support on your writing journey? Join Meg and Lorien inside TSL Workshops - use code HOLIDAY25 for 50% off your first month.
Episode Links:
- “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” on Netflix
- “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” on Disney+
- Check out the TSL merch shop
- TSL on Instagram, TikTok, and Bluesky
The Screenwriting Life is produced by Jonathan Hurwitz and edited by Kate Mishkin.
Email us at [email protected].
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