Straight Outta Compton Writers Jonathan Herman and Andrea Berloff Discuss Film
Straight Outta Compton writers Jonathan Herman and Andrea Berloff discuss how working with Ice Cube, performing research and writing collaboratively made the film a reality.
The Los Angeles Film School is proud to have hosted a screening of the film, Straight Outta Compton, followed by a Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith and Writers Jonathan Herman and Andrea Berloff. During their conversation, the duo elaborated on their writing styles, origins and future projects.
Herman discussed what helped him get started in writing for film and television
“I read scripts every day as I got started in the industry.”
Andrea Berloff reflected on working with award-winning film director Oliver Stone
“Oliver Stone never stops working.”
Andrea and Jonathan spent over 10 months with the original NWA band. Berloff elaborated
“The members were all so available to be interviewed.”
There is a scene where Dr. Dre can be seen listening to records. Berloff explained
“The music you hear is there to educate the audience on Dre’s early influences.”
Much of the film centers on stage performances
“We wanted to rapture the feeling of being at a show, and being on the stage.”
The role of a screenwriter is needed to compress a story into the length of a film. Berloff adds
“You have 2.5 hours to tell an 18 year story.”
Regarding the NWA’s strategy to build the popularity of the group
“EazyE was quick to jump on on FBI letter as an opportunity.”
Andrea Berloff talked about how much she writes each day
“I write 5 pages a day.”
Berloff applauded Ice Cube’s talent for writing
“Icecube is a great writer. He is very funny.”
Special thanks to Jonathan Herman and Andrea Berloff for the excellent Q&A.
Jeff Goldsmith and ‘Straight Outta Compton’ writers Andrea Berloff and Jonathan Herman
You can listen to Jeff Goldsmith’s interview with Andrea Berloff and Jonathan Herman on his podcast, The Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith. Listen to it here.