How Hollywood Really Works: Kevin Goetz on the Secrets Behind Hit Movies

Entertainment research powerhouse Kevin Goetz, founder and CEO of Screen Engine, reveals behind-the-scenes strategies Hollywood uses to create hit films. Goetz breaks down insights from his new book, How to Score in Hollywood: Secrets to Success in the Movie Business, explaining how audience testing, smart budgeting, and data-driven storytelling shape the movies we love. Heather dives into Goetz’s decades of experience testing more than 5,000 movies, consulting for major studios, and helping guide box-office successes by aligning creative instincts with what audiences truly want. If you’ve ever wondered why some films soar while others stumble, or how streamers and theaters decide what gets made, this episode pulls back the curtain. Perfect for filmmakers, entertainment fans, and anyone curious about Hollywood’s inner workings, this conversation offers a rare look at the business of storytelling — from the first spark of an idea to the final cut.  Don't forget to subscribe to Entertain Me and follow Heather Brooker on Instagram @theheatherbrooker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.