Ep 256 - Telling Stories That Matter: Mark Freiburger on 'Between Borders'

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey sits down with director Mark Freiburger to discuss his latest feature film, Between Borders. Mark shares the powerful true story that inspired the film, the challenges of shooting in multiple countries, and assembling a stellar cast, including stars from Lost, The Chosen, and more. Get an insider look at how this low-budget indie drama came to life and hear Mark's advice for aspiring filmmakers.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The true story behind Between Borders and why Mark was drawn to it.
• The unique challenges of filming in Romania on a tight 20-day schedule.
• How Mark assembled a cast featuring Elizabeth Tabish (The Chosen), Michael Paul Chan, and Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost).
• Advice for filmmakers on finding their voice and staying persistent.
• The importance of balancing family life and filmmaking.

Key Moments:

• [00:53] Mark introduces Between Borders, based on a true story of survival and asylum.
• [02:33] Assembling the cast: From The Chosen to Lost.
• [06:16] Mark's journey from screenwriter to director and his passion for the project.
• [10:43] Overcoming challenges: Tight schedules, foreign crews, and filming logistics.
• [17:29] Distribution plans for Between Borders and where to watch it.

About the Guest:
Mark Freiburger is a director and screenwriter with a passion for telling impactful stories. His latest film, Between Borders, is a narrative drama based on a true story of an Armenian family's fight for asylum. Mark’s past work includes collaborations with Michael Bay on Transformers 4 and award-winning indie projects.

About the Host:
With films on network television and streaming platforms, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and passionate about teaching. Through his podcast, The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey inspires and educates the next wave of screenwriters to achieve their dreams.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Between Borders: In theaters starting January 26th, 2025.
• The Chosen on Netflix and Prime

Connect with the Guest:

• Mark Freiburger on Instagram
• Between Borders Official Website

Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:

• Podcast Website
• Instagram: @screenwriterpod
• TikTok: @screenwriterpod

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#Screenwriting #Filmmaking #BetweenBorders #MarkFreiburger #IndieFilm #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter