Ever wonder how a college theater kid makes it big as a Hollywood character actor and renowned documentary narrator? This episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the art of acting and the magic of storytelling. We sit down with Corey Johnson, whose extensive career spans blockbuster films, acclaimed TV series, and compelling voiceover work, for a candid conversation about his creative journey.

In this lively interview, Corey reflects on his path from the stages of Catholic University to the sets of Hollywood. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his supporting roles in major movies and discusses how he became the voice behind numerous documentaries, highlighting the power of storytelling in film and narration. Corey gives an inside look at his recent role in the docudrama September 5 – a gripping recount of the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis – and explains what it was like to bring such a pivotal historical event to life through a storyteller’s lens.

Corey also opens up about his personal influences, including insights about his father’s legacy in journalism and how it instilled in him a deep appreciation for truth and narrative. He speaks about the unpredictable nature of creative careers, sharing hard-earned wisdom on resilience, adaptability, and passion for aspiring actors and artists. From navigating the highs and lows of show business to continually honing his craft, Corey’s stories offer both inspiration and practical advice for anyone pursuing a career in the arts.

But it’s not all about acting and film – we also get to hear about Corey’s hobbies and future projects. In a fun twist, he chats about his love of golf and how this off-screen passion is leading him to start a podcast of his own about the sport. It’s a reminder that a creative life can have many chapters, and that exploring personal interests can open up new avenues in storytelling.

Tune in for a conversational and engaging interview that delves into acting, documentary filmmaking, narration, and the creative process. Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a documentary fan, or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes Hollywood story, Corey Johnson’s journey – from college theater to Hollywood and beyond – will leave you inspired and eager to follow your own creative passions.

DocuView Déjà Vu

Christian's Recommendation:

• Septemeber 5, 2024, 95 minutes, watch on MGM Channel, Paramount + or Prime, IMDB Link:
• September 5 (2024) - IMDb

Corey’s Recommendation:

• Strangest Things Series, 2021-2022, 2 Seasons, Watch on MAX or Prime, IMDB Link:
• Strangest Things (TV Series 2021–2022) - IMDb

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking

02:00 Corey Johnson's Acting Journey

05:40 Behind the Scenes of September 5

08:35 Recollections of College Theater

11:30 The Evolution of Catholic University's Theater Program

16:01 The Influence of Family in Documentary Filmmaking

21:55 The Legacy of CJ's Father in Journalism

23:17 The Legacy of Local Journalism

24:52 The Journey to Acting

30:30 Discovering the Actor Within

35:26 Navigating the Early Career

43:00 DocuView Déjà Vu Segment

47:00 The Passion for Golf and Podcasting

Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!

What happens when a Hollywood star stands up to sexual harassment on set? In this episode, entertainment lawyer Anne Easton joins us to unravel the legal and ethical firestorm sparked by Blake Lively’s recent case. Blake Lively made headlines by accusing her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni, of sexual harassment — and then faced an alleged smear campaign in retaliation. Anne brings an insider perspective from the world of entertainment law, helping us make sense of this high-profile Hollywood showdown in a conversational, insightful way.

We tackle tough questions around celebrity privacy and image rights — how much control can an actor really have over their image and personal information once a story goes public? We also examine how the Me Too movement has changed the film industry, and what it takes to create a truly safe workplace environment in filmmaking today.

Anne breaks down the concept of retaliation in plain language, exploring whether smear campaigns like the one Lively alleges can be considered illegal retaliation under entertainment law. She highlights what legal protections exist for those who speak up against misconduct, and where gaps still need to be filled. From the role of intimacy coordinators on set to new laws designed to protect whistleblowers, we cover it all in a clear, down-to-earth way.

Beyond this case, Anne’s perspective — shaped by years of advising both major studios and independent filmmakers — adds nuance to every insight. She even shares a peek at her own upcoming creative nonfiction book project, revealing her passion for storytelling beyond the courtroom. It’s a candid, eye-opening discussion that’s equal parts Hollywood drama and practical advice on building safer, more respectful film sets. Tune in to learn how Hollywood is changing and what it means for anyone who wants a safer, more equitable filmmaking world.

No DocuView Déjà Vu

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to the Blake Lively Case

03:12 Understanding the Legal Context

06:04 The Background of the Case

09:10 Claims of Sexual Harassment

12:04 Retaliation and Public Perception

14:52 Legal Implications for Filmmakers

17:59 Creating a Safe Set Environment

21:04 Navigating Power Dynamics on Set

23:55 Preventative Measures in Filmmaking

26:50 The Aftermath and Public Image Rights

32:39 Legal Standards for Public Figures

34:12 Image Rights and Public Figures

36:32 The Importance of Image Rights

40:42 Lessons from Blake Lively's Case

42:27 Current Status of Legal Proceedings

45:26 The Importance of Behavior in Legal Matters

46:13 Understanding Your Rights in Media

48:08 Anne's New Documentary Project

Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!

Get ready to ride shotgun through Hollywood’s wild side! In this electrifying episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with Greg Fitzpatrick—a stuntman who’s doubled for Ben Stiller and even put his skills to the test for Robert Downey Jr. in Iron Man. Greg's no-nonsense journey from ditching law school to becoming an award-winning daredevil in Tinseltown is full of raw, behind-the-scenes stories that every aspiring actor, stunt performer, or director will want to hear.

In this candid, high-octane conversation, Greg dives into the gritty realities of stunt work—the epic risks, hilarious mishaps, and relentless hustle that shape a career in film. He reveals how networking, preparation, and a dash of bold risk-taking have propelled him from theater stages to the big screen. Whether you’re dreaming of your own Hollywood breakthrough or just curious about what really goes on behind the camera, this interview packs plenty of inspiration, practical advice, and jaw-dropping tales from the stunt world.

Tune in for a deep dive into the adrenaline-fueled world of stunts where every fall is a step toward success!

DocuView Déjà Vu

Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa, 2023, 95 mins, Watch on Netflix, IMDB Link:

Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa (2023) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking and Guest Introduction

02:59 The Life of a Stuntman: Behind the Scenes

06:05 The Journey to Acting: From Law School to Hollywood

09:02 Theater and Acting: Building a Foundation

12:02 The Struggles of an Actor: Finding a Footing in LA

15:06 Networking and Community in the Film Industry

17:59 The Breakthrough: Becoming a Stunt Performer

20:51 Transitioning from Stunts to Acting

23:55 The Hustle: Balancing Jobs and Passion

27:09 Preparing for the Role: Doubling for Ben Stiller

27:43 The Journey Begins: From Awareness to Opportunity

30:09 Seizing the Moment: The Importance of Preparation

32:52 The Humbling Experience of Stunt Work

35:44 The Duality of Stunt Work: Gift and Challenge

39:09 Behind the Scenes: The Reality of Stunt Work

42:34 Directing: Bringing Vision to Life

46:55 Documentary Insights: Learning from Experience

48:25 DocuView Déjà Vu

Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your order today!