In this episode of Don't Kill the Messenger, host Kevin Goetz sits down with Michael Uslan, the originator and executive producer of the Batman and Batman-related movie universe, who turned his childhood passion for comic books into Hollywood gold. As an avid comic book collector and Batman superfan, Uslan is proof that following your passion pays off. He shares the story of his decade-long journey to bring a dark, serious Batman to the big screen after being horrified by the campy 1960s TV show.
The Origin of Michael Uslan’s Passion (07:47)
Uslan reveals his "secret origin" moment: watching the first episode of the 1966 Batman TV series and making a vow like young Bruce Wayne to someday show the world the true, dark Batman.
Ten Years of Hollywood Rejection (09:53)
From October 1979 to the first Batman movie's release, Uslan shares how he and partner Ben Melnicker faced rejection from every studio in Hollywood.
Batman's Batman (15:12)
When offered the chance to make a campy Batman movie, Uslan said no. His partner Ben called him "Batman's Batman," the character's defender who would stand by his initial vision.
Peter Guber Says Yes (16:15)
Uslan details how former 20th Century Fox president Peter Guber became the first executive excited about his dark Batman vision, leading to a nine-and-a-half-year journey to production.
Financing the Dream (22:43)
Uslan explains how he quit his job when his wife was nine months pregnant and raised money by selling project shares to his network, who invested in him, not Batman.
Comic Book Academic Pioneer (25:16)
Uslan recounts becoming the first person to teach an accredited college course on comic books at Indiana University as a Junior, leading to national publicity and a life-changing phone call from Stan Lee.
Stan Lee's Mentorship and Marvel's Debt to Batman (39:54)
Uslan shares Stan Lee's revelation that the Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn't exist without his Batman, which proved superhero movies should focus on the person.
Tim Burton and Michael Keaton (40:58)
Uslan describes discovering Tim Burton through Pee-Wee's Big Adventure and Burton's genius decision to cast Michael Keaton, initially against Uslan's wishes.
Uslan demonstrates persistence, vision, and the courage to say no when protecting something he believed in. His journey from comic book collector to Hollywood producer offers insights into passion-driven success, handling rejection, and the importance of having people who believe in you.
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share. We look forward to bringing you more behind-the-scenes revelations next time on Don't Kill the Messenger.
Host: Kevin Goetz
Guest: Michael Uslan
Producer: Kari Campano
Writers: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari Campano
Audio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)
For more info about Michael Uslan:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mich
For more information about Kevin Goetz:
- Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com
- Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678
- How to Score in Hollywood: https://www.amazon.com/How-Score-Hollywood-Secrets-Business/dp/198218986X/
- Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Substack: @KevinGoetz360
- LinkedIn @Kevin Goetz
- Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com
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