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▶️ Show Notes
In our latest episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of documentary filmmaking with John Dorsey, the acclaimed director behind ESPN’s 30 for 30 classics “The Marinovich Project” and “Pony Excess.” From his early days at Propaganda Films alongside legendary directors like David Fincher and Spike Jonze to his work on Johnny Cash’s iconic “Hurt” music video, John shares incredible stories from his remarkable career. We explore the delicate art of documentary storytelling, discussing how he convinced the reclusive Todd Marinovich to participate in his film and navigated challenging interviews with Marv Marinovich. John also offers unique perspective as an SMU alum who witnessed firsthand the aftermath of the football program’s death penalty, providing thoughtful commentary on how college athletics has evolved over the decades. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, sports enthusiast, or simply love great storytelling, this episode offers invaluable insights into the craft of documentary filmmaking and the changing landscape of sports media.
⏱️Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction and overview of John Dorsey’s work on 30 for 30s
1:46 John’s early interest in filmmaking and film school experience
4:30 Working with mentors and at Propaganda Films
6:15 Experience working on Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” music video
9:45 The making of “The Marinovich Project” and getting Todd Marinovich to participate
13:20 Interviewing Marv Marinovich and the challenges involved
16:30 Discussion of SMU football scandal and modern NCAA changes
19:45 Interview techniques and building trust with documentary subjects
24:15 Todd Marinovich’s current life as an artist
26:00 Making “Glory Hounds” documentary about military dogs in Afghanistan
31:30 Differences between directors and producers in filmmaking
34:15 Career advice for aspiring filmmakers 38:45 Experience as a PA on film sets
40:30 Favorite documentaries and films
42:45 Current project on eSports World Cup and changing perceptions
46:30 Closing remarks and woodpecker appearance
📌 Key Topics:
✅ John reveals his journey from aspiring law student to acclaimed filmmaker, crediting his film school experience and mentorship under directors like Barry Levinson
✅ We discuss the meticulous preparation and emotional intelligence required to conduct meaningful documentary interviews
✅ John shares behind-the-scenes details of working on Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” video at the historic House of Cash
✅ We explore his current project on esports, where he’s working to challenge preconceptions about competitive gaming
✅ The conversation covers the evolving landscape of college athletics, comparing past scandals to today’s NIL era
🗒️ About John Dorsey:
John Dorsey is a veteran filmmaker whose career spans multiple decades in both documentary and music video production. He worked at the legendary Propaganda Films alongside directors like David Fincher and Spike Jonze, contributing to iconic projects like Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” video. His documentary work includes the acclaimed ESPN 30 for 30 films “The Marinovich Project” and “Pony Excess,” as well as “Glory Hounds,” a powerful documentary about military working dogs in Afghanistan.
🔗 Connect with John Dorsey:
Website | https://ten100tv.com/
IMDB | https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1174236/
LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/johndorseyten100/
🔗 Connect with Cory:
Website | https://www.prepathletics.com
Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics
Email | coryheitz@gmail.com
Phone | 859-317-1166
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Amazon | https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3c37179d-3371-47f9-9d97-fd569e8802a7/prep-athletics-basketball-podcast
Website | https://prepathletics.com/prep-athletics-podcast/
🏀About Us:
PREP Athletics is your trusted partner in navigating the prep school journey for your family. With over a decade of experience, I’ve successfully placed players in top prep schools, leveraging my own post-grad year experience and deep family ties to the world of prep school and professional basketball. Our mission is to guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring if prep school is the right path for you, we find the perfect fit to achieve your academic and athletic aspirations.
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