#2508 - Joe Eszterhas
Summary
Joe Rogan interviews screenwriter Joe Eszterhas, who discusses the creation of Basic Instinct, his "twisted little man" muse, and his gritty journalism background. They explore Eszterhas’s views on Christianity, arguing for a historical Jesus as a freedom fighter rather than a passive figure. The conversation also covers the Shroud of Turin, debating its authenticity, carbon dating controversies, and the mysterious nature of its image.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Dogan people origin story
Basic Instinct, Zelensky, and writing process
Writing Basic Instinct in 13 days and its success
Critics, ads, and early career influences
Journalism experiences: riots, police, and Hunter S. Thompson
Interviewing Otis Redding and writing his biography
Christian films, The Last Temptation of Christ, and controversy
The Shroud of Turin: history, science, and mystery
Shroud analysis, carbon dating, and personal faith
Cancer survival, Rolling Stone, and Hunter S. Thompson friendship
Hunter S. Thompson's writing, politics, and legacy
Militarized police, ICE, and the American Dream
Mark Twain, Sam Kinison, and stand-up comedy history
Jimi Hendrix in Cleveland and interviewing rock legends
Writing, alcohol, creativity, and closing thoughts
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