Writer-directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the writers of A Quiet Place and the filmmakers behind Heretic starring Hugh Grant, discuss writing more than 40 scripts that went nowhere to landing one of the most successful modern thrillers, they explain why failure was the key to their breakthrough.

They reveal how A Quiet Place evolved into a near-silent studio blockbuster, how real-life experiences shaped its emotional core, and what it takes to keep an audience on the edge of their seat without dialogue. The conversation also unpacks Heretic, including the risks of dialogue-heavy tension, working with Hugh Grant, and designing scenes that hold attention through performance alone.

Beck and Woods discuss Hollywood gatekeeping, audience testing, studio pressure, and the realities of directing under exhaustion and uncertainty. Packed with behind-the-scenes stories, hard-earned lessons, and honest advice, this episode pulls back the curtain on writing, directing, and surviving in modern filmmaking.