We love the concept of someone becoming a star through a process that started with their local radio stations. For read more

We love the concept of someone becoming a star through a process that started with their local radio stations. For us the Showdown is like having hundreds of talent scouts evaluating tens of thousands of artists.

It was unbelievably difficult to get it made. Studios are extremely allergic to risk. Finally, after a long courtship, Lions read more

It was unbelievably difficult to get it made. Studios are extremely allergic to risk. Finally, after a long courtship, Lions Gate Films agreed to make the film. They liked the idea of a sports movie where spelling was the sport, something that might be compared to 'Hoosiers' or other good sports movies, but with a younger lead character.

I had to work out that it was something that could move, without having everybody in spray painted leotards.

I had to work out that it was something that could move, without having everybody in spray painted leotards.

He who survives will see the outcome.

He who survives will see the outcome.

I think some people found the production took away from the actual songs, which I can understand.

I think some people found the production took away from the actual songs, which I can understand.

I never give them hell. I just tell the truth and they think it's hell.

I never give them hell. I just tell the truth and they think it's hell.

From the beginning, we were prepared, we know how we would shoot and cut the two versions.

From the beginning, we were prepared, we know how we would shoot and cut the two versions.

but it is only a small snapshot of what is going on.

but it is only a small snapshot of what is going on.

The most important thing is socialization. They take the dogs everywhere, to church, to restaurants, to malls.

The most important thing is socialization. They take the dogs everywhere, to church, to restaurants, to malls.