Ep 276 - From 48 Hour Films to Apple TV: William McGregor on Directing The Buccaneers

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey chats with director William McGregor (His Dark Materials, Lockwood & Co., Gwen) about helming Season 2 of The Buccaneers. They discuss how the show evolved in tone, finding a cinematic voice within period dramas, and William’s journey from 48 Hour Film Festivals to international prestige projects. They also dive into pitch decks, visual storytelling, and how his background in commercials shaped his dynamic approach to directing.✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to pitch a strong visual take as a TV directorWhy tone shifts matter across seasonsThe cinematic influences behind The BuccaneersHow William blends commercial and narrative directingBreaking in through the 48 Hour Film Project⏱️ Key Moments: 00:00 – Intro and welcome00:41 – Evolving tone from Season 1 to Season 201:34 – Pitching his visual take with Sofia Coppola and Joe Wright influences03:28 – Treating key scenes like stylized commercials04:50 – Reflections on Lockwood & Co. and collaboration with Joe Cornish05:41 – Directing with intent vs. using a 'oner' for show07:02 – Transitioning from indie film (Gwen) to high-end TV07:30 – Off-mic: Starting with 48 Hour Film Fests and the hustle it takes👤 About the Guest: William McGregor is an acclaimed director known for his work on His Dark Materials, Lockwood & Co., The Buccaneers, and his gothic feature debut Gwen. He began his career in the 48 Hour Film Project and brings a visually bold style shaped by both commercial and narrative work.🎙️ About the Host: With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.🔗 Resources Mentioned in the Episode:William McGregor’s film Gwen48 Hour Film ProjectFilmapalooza🌐 Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Podcast WebsiteInstagram @screenwriterpodTikTok @screenwriterpod📢 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, share it with a fellow screenwriter, and subscribe for more insider conversations with top industry pros.#ScreenwritingPodcast #WilliamMcGregor #TheBuccaneers #Filmapalooza #IndieToIndustryConnect with GuestInstagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWatch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslifePlease share this podcast with your community!