Dan Levy on Good Grief, overcoming self-doubt, and the one book he recommends to new screenwriters

Schitt's Creek co-creator and star Dan Levy has just released his first feature film, Good Grief. He joins Tom Power to tell us about the project, how he overcame his fear of venturing into film, and the step-by-step guide that helped him learn the craft of screenwriting.
00:00 - Good Grief film
15:23 - Self Criticism
17:57 - Getting into Film/TV
20:16 - Screenwriting
22:30 - Fame/Integrity
27:20 - Schitt's Creek
32:05 - Nepotism
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[@AdalineK]

If there were more Dan Levy’s in the world, the world would be a better place. ❤

[@Studiolussoalberta]

Dan Levy…your integrity is commended. If everyone would run their lives this way, it would be a much better place. Can’t wait to see Good Grief. I have watched Schitts Creek 3 times now and I will watch again. Tom, thank you for this great interview.

[@mikiomahoney1]

Agreed, I’ve watched SC at least three times….such wonderful TV…I do hope they do a film at some stage….

[@jeannie9590]

isn't all of life a little drama.. a little comedy...? I can relate to your snow story about seeing the beauty around you.. and wondering why the world did not see your sorrow.. .I was 21.. recently married and just graduated as a nurse.. and thought my whole life was new , exciting and wonderful... and then in the blink of an eye I lost my dad.. in the spring.. right after Easter .. a time of rebirth... and I was so angry at the flowers for blooming and the birds for singing... 50 years later I still have a love hate relationship with spring😊

[@hallow_cat]

"Let the romance live on the outside and let friendship take center stage." - Dan Levy, genuine human

[@colleenjordan7687]

‘What makes success fulfilling is the ability to use it to help other people.’ - Dan Levy ♥️

[@lonkinoble9333]

Dan Levy is a truly glorious and beautiful human being. Thank you Tom for once again doing what you do better than any interviewer out there. You and your guests are a joy to watch.

[@TheJoya1234]

What a tremendous human Dan Levy is ❤

[@amyweaver7413]

Dan Levy - you make Canada so proud.❤️🇨🇦❤️

[@melissaelton1644]

I watched Good Grief last night and my soul devoured it. So many tears and a bigger heart by the end. Thank you, Dan Levy.

[@nitika1512]

the way Tom listens to Dan with such kindness and compassion, makes me want to be in the room with them

[@theuntroddenpath]

I've said it before but I'll say it again: Tom's interviews are the best in town. Such beautiful, grounding, honest conversations on what it means to be a human, told through the lens of our creative self-expression. Dan, I didn't know it was possible to love you more. You are such a beautiful human being. Thank you thank you thank you!

[@christinagely2086]

When I have my dream dinner party, Dan Levy & Tom Power will be at the table.❤

[@Linda-lv4hw]

What an authentic, uplifting and inspiring conversation. Bravo

[@kimtax1]

I absolutely love Dan Levy, I think i have watched the entire season of Schitts Creek so many times that i have lost count, this is a great interview, and i am looking forward to seeing Good Grief😊😊😊

[@lillywildflower]

Good grief is a brilliant movie. So well written…. Love the cast. Dan has captured grief perfectly. I lost dad a few months ago and the feelings of loss are like an ulcer on your shoulder… the ache that doesn’t go away…. And the desperation to feel anything but the pain in your heart.

[@Robil63]

The depth, the honesty... beautiful discussion. Bonus heart points for the interviewer expressing his vulnerabilities.

[@laurenl5843]

"No body knows what they are doing is all a fluke." 😊💜 And "no body cares David, no body cares". 😊💜 Great lessons.

[@marysharvey]

What a wonderful human this man is. I love this gentle soul. Thank you Dan Levy for being a good steward of us humans.

[@user-gk1mr5dp4j]

Dear Tom! I send you hugs from Hungary, from a small town. What you represent, how you conduct your interviews, means a lot. It's human, it's beautiful, it's true. Thanks

[@user-fj8mo5kx4m]

I just finished your beautiful movie, Good Grief. Over a decade ago I had a similar experience with a sudden loss of my love and shared the pain, grief and recovery Marc did in the film. I can’t think of a modern actor that makes whatever character they play more believable, endearing and provocative as you do in each role you play. I now promise myself not to miss anything you are in, either as a director, writer or actor. Thank you so much, Dan. You are Canada’s wonder boy❣️

[@donutsytortas]

We love you Dan Levy! So many layers of truth and humanity in this interview.

[@kikipeterson4101]

His parents must be so proud of how Dan is. He has such a great head on his shoulders. He is the most REAL person on television! KEEP BEING YOU DAN! AND WRITE MORE MORE AND MORE !

[@amandaln895]

"To avoid sadness is to avoid love" 😢 yes.

[@shamanijayakody8392]

Good grief is such a piece of art, Dan Levy is a true gem. What a gifted writer.

[@allthebest744]

It’s a beautiful film. Thank you Dan for sharing your feelings and helping us deal with grief. You have a big heart. ❤️

[@carolinehaf21]

Dan, I first saw your dad Eugene in the movie splash with Tom Hanks as a 7-8 year old girl and hated his character initially but fell in love with him and his humor by the end of the movie. As soon as I saw you in Schitts Creek, I knew you had his ability to make us laugh and also feel. Beautiful movie... please always keep learning and showing us life always has something worth learning as well. Friendship is worth showing and writing about. Thank you ❤

[@kierondurney8386]

Tom Power is a great interviewer. He does his research beforehand, which so many journalists don't do properly. He understand that listeners/ viewers are tuning in because of the guests and he doesn't make the mistake of putting himself front & center. He really listens to the answers his guests give and is confident enough to be flexible in his approach so that he can follow the thoughts of the guests and explore other areas that he might not have chosen during his research. Tom is what I would describe as an old fashioned interviewer in the very best way.

[@nechma13]

Having lost both my grandmothers in 2023, 3 1/2 months between eachother, (end of july and mid November) both the movie and this interview are incredibly helpful. Grief is so hard and it comes out in weird mysterious ways but, grief is the strongest form of love someone can have

[@sheerheight]

I had been struggling to turn down an opportunity that would bring more “fame” but compromise my science. I knew I couldn’t take that opportunity but I couldn’t give voice to my feelings. Then I heard Dan Levy interviewed by Tom Power. Such synergy - the combination of these two minds is just magic.

[@sononi4798]

He was my favorite character on SC. I had such a crush on him and felt like he would be the best friend that would push you to be better but keep you humble. 💕

[@melvinhoyk]

The music was mesmerizing of carefully selected for a scene in mood. The arrival to Paris - Eyes without a face by Billy Idol. The dinner meetup in Paris - Sortir ce soir by Étienne Daho and the film close with a peaceful heart soundtrack. Start with Getting Through It, Coming to and Musee De L'Orangerie by Rob Simonsen.

[@twiladawnmckay7300]

Good Grief is phenomenal! Dan Levy should be commended for his multiple contributions in ,and to, this movie. Loved the interview this afternoon on Q - Tom, great job as usual. And so, I watched the movie tonight. It does not disappoint. I will have to watch it again. ❤

[@susanamolinolo7112]

There's so much tenderness in this conversation, such a rarity in the world. Thank you Team Q with Tom Power and Dan Levy for this beautiful, heart-opening pause.

[@corra7]

A national treasure made another one! Thank you Eugine!

[@jeffbassin630]

I can't wait to see "Good Grief," and will have by tomorrow. Dan Levy has, for a long time, impressed me for his amazing talent. I expect to be even more impressed after viewing his film. Mu gut tells me that I won't be disappointed.

[@debmnmn5054]

He is such a fantastic human being... who just happens to be a great writer and performer. ..

[@1133]

What a breath of fresh air! A genuine conversation of life’s little moments …. Beautiful guys. Beautiful 💙. Keep creating you two … and keep giving yourself the space to honour all the feels along the way.

[@brettrobinson4418]

Just finished Good Grief. It's too easy to say the movie was heartwarming and raw. I haven't seen a movie quite like it. It felt real. Levy's performance is so believable and so warm. I was captivated by every minute. Everyone should watch this. Friendship is everything and is your family as well as your family.

[@janelevey3435]

What a fabulous man! Articulate, and brilliant!

[@mikiomahoney1]

I adore Dan, he’s a very levelheaded and intelligent creative who clearly adores his craft, I love that he thinks big picture, but also his attention to detail, eg, the wardrobe addition to characters, which, as he says adds as much to a character, authenticity is what I feel when I watch him, either his writing, acting or directing. I don’t think he’s scared to go to places, being uncomfortable is brewing human, he has such a wonderful soul….of course, he’s come from good stock, but I got so into the film, I wanted more and love the characters, even parts of them I didn’t like…I could easily watch more about the journeys of these characters, I’d love to see where the characters go, left wanting me is a real art…probably from Schitts Creak, which is just fabulous…watching Dan is a pleasure ❤

[@jasonchristopher5316]

The conversation on self criticism was so honest and forthright. It's Dan's willingness to expose his vulnerabilities and sensitivities that make him such a prolific screenwriter. I love him so much.

[@onebraveheartlion]

Nepotism doesn't fly for actors who truly work hard and do such a wonderful job as an artist. 🤗 They deserve everything they worked for.

[@suzannetugman1894]

THIS man is such a beautiful gift in our world

[@anju04aa]

Watched Good Grief today and loved it…Daniel is love and talent…

[@cardswithcrystals6294]

Oh good to know! It’s on my list.

[@debrajosephs]

I stopped the movie to read the card. Slowly looked at Dan's face. This movie is so moving and shows great emotion bringing out so much emotion in me. So well done.

[@jeanneberner]

Quote on grief by Aeschlus.”He who learns must suffer.And even in our sleep pain that cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart until,in our own despair,against our will, comes wisdom through the awful grace of God.”(justice inclines her scales so that wisdom comes at the price of suffering.)

[@dianacohen3498]

I just love and adore that man more than I can say. Thank you for having him on.

[@evelinel.9827]

I am such a fan of Dan Levy--I love his heart!!!

[@ravenology4826]

Dan Levy, the beatiful human being that you are. I love you ❤❤❤

[@nancypedrick5596]

The screenplay & direction were impeccable!! Wonderful cast and I’m so glad I got my extra large peacoat… I get to feel I am in Paris!

[@reginakelly1783]

Beautiful movie, very emotional, very sad, great acting, beautiful photography

[@jamiepatton9334]

Dan, how are you such a huge star and still a true real person?! I could not love you more. Thank you for all you do. No one makes me laugh past, present, or future like you do. Xoxo

[@ivonnedewolf9259]

OMG - I love you Dan Levy!!! Great interview. Thank you both.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Dan Levy got ‘Screenwriting for Dummies’ and Michaela Coel googled the art of screenwriting. It’s a great strategy.

[@anne8511]

It was great hearing how Dan Levy overrides his insecurities. His fear of failure combined with an inordinate amount of talent is his recipe for success. He’ll put in the work and we are thankful.

[@user-rx7yj2hb6o]

We call them legacy friends...I am blessed with many legacy friends. I am such a diehard fan of Dan Levy!! Loved Good Grief, and of course, Schitts Creek is my all time favorite series.

[@marjoriemoser3961]

The movie IS beautiful 💖 Dan….I absolutely adore you and your fabulous intelligence and craft💖God bless you with good health and continuous properties 💖

[@AlisonStarrContemporaryArtist]

Two beautiful, intelligent, thoughtful human beings ❤❤

[@wendylbranchfield7959]

8:19-Amen!!! My friends have been PARAMOUNT in my receiving any support. Friend/ Family is as real as Family. 🙌🏽

[@huntersun9]

I watched Good Grief the other day and it was wonderful. When Dan's character says grief feels like he's swimming with his clothes on, I actually gasped because that is such a perfect description in my experience. It was moving and funny, I loved the relationships. Wow.

[@angelahall6461]

What a very heartwarming interview. Dan levy is a true and beautiful soul. Now I am also a fan of Tom too. Thank you both for informing and cheering my day.

[@ConnieBach]

The Good Grif is one of the best movies I've seen so far. Great story, great acting. I'm bias because I love Dan Levy but he's amazing. And the story lines are top quality on all level. Well done!

[@dawnbaillargeon5096]

Dan Levy is such a thoughtful guy! I love Schitts Creek! and just watched Good Grief last night, and I will be interested in all Dan Levy's future endeavours. I loved this interview!

[@joy8030]

I love how they explore imposter syndrome in this interview and how they both relate and are surprised that the other struggles with it. I'm a therapist who sometimes struggles with imposter syndrome (this is maybe surprisingly common in the mental health field) and though we're in completely different fields, I love how Dan normalizes that no one really knows what they're doing. Even Dan Levy feels like an imposter sometimes. Dan is really knocking it out of the park with the interviews he's doing for his film! Love his take on singlehood too! Such an impressive human.

[@HeatherForestH]

A beautiful, honest conversation! And I loved the film - thanks for being so relatable and human, Dan! Love your work.

[@ourson66]

My god this is such an incredible interview. Dan Levy is the most wonderful, open, charming person! I feel like he'd be an amazing friend, and i also appreciate Tom Power so much more after watching him being incredibly giving and understanding and providing such a good platform for Dan Levy to show us who he really is. What a superb interiewer!

[@mjg3444]

Great. Great movie. Thank you!

[@sharonfieldstone]

This was a really nice interview and conversation. I hadn't planned on watching the film but I look forward to seeing it now :)

[@shelleoshelle7252]

Dan you are wonderful. Thank you for your honesty and integrity. Such an inspiration for me.

[@DiZimmer]

Amazing interview Love Dan Levy’s transparency and honesty

[@carolinecaiger6717]

I watched Good Grief last night and was so happy to find this interview today. Excellent film - really carried my heart away.

[@cherylsibson2529]

Tom, thankyou for this heartwarming interview you did with Dan Levy, his integrity shows and has great meaning!

[@lilymonkey2]

I can’t wait to see this film. Dan Levy is so wonderful and talented.

[@paulapirpignani4802]

Brilliant...cherished this movie

[@evelynmayton470]

Good Grief is pure genuis.

[@DanY-gx2dv]

I've missed him.

[@crazy4doxies440]

Good Grief is fantastic. I love Dan and this is a thoughtful, funny and charming film.

[@mariesheppard1323]

Great movie! Dan is so talented. Amazing talent. Good greif was perfect. I am patiently waiting for the next film/project! ❤

[@staceyvanier15]

Dan, thank you.❤

[@raepugh4905]

Love this person so much

[@Scully331]

We loved the movie. Beautiful, thanks for sharing.

[@meghanhodgins178]

Four weddings and a funeral- great movie about friends. Can’t wait to see this.

[@lauriewebb4726]

Loved your new movie thank you

[@dtruetheeness]

What a great interview. There is so much to learn from what both of you have to say.

[@trinaolson7131]

lovely conversation!

[@AnandaCaitASMR]

Loved the movie Good Grief. It was sweet and endearing.

[@rjcarter2904]

Great interview and awesome film.

[@granvillesimmons6033]

Good Grief was amazing, and so is Dan.

[@luciafidalgo296]

I loved this movie! Just subscribed.

[@charlaabbott7202]

This is gold, thank you for the inspiration🙏🏻💜

[@magdalena_reilly]

great interview. loved the film.

[@marjoriemoser3961]

You nailed your research for this movie💖

[@semmaville]

he's gonna be soooooo huge

[@sheefree]

Love the film. ❤

[@valr852]

OMG we truly all have something quirky about us,I always say that and also that’s ok

[@veronicamozee]

I heard Schitts Creek was coming back? Its so funny! I wish i woulds got into it sooner.

[@theresaweafer9323]

Gorgeous 😊

[@peeveandtoonces]

What a stand-up guy.

[@JENNIFERBOO]

Good. Grief. 🎥 🎦 🍿👍🏻

[@colleenjordan7687]

💓

[@waynemethsky]

This movie looks really good. I just know Dan as the "bitchay" host from MTV Live and always found him extremely annoying. Can't wait to watch this as it looks like he poured his authentic self into this project.

[@jennifermeyers9340]

have you not watched Schitt's Creek? It's absolutely incredible.