Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter: 10 Hollywood Hits That Redefined Comedy and Box Office Success

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter: From Comedic Genius to Hollywood Powerhouse

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter – Introduction

In the glittering world of Hollywood, where dreams come to life, Jonathan Michael Goldstein is a name that resonates with creativity and success.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter
Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter

A versatile film director and screenwriter, he has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Join us on an inspiring journey through the life and career of Jonathan Goldstein, known for his remarkable work on films like “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,” “Game Night,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” and “Horrible Bosses.”

Early Life and Academic Pursuits

Born on September 2, 1968, Jonathan Goldstein’s journey began in the vibrant city of New York.

However, it was in Beachwood, Ohio, where he spent his formative years and graduated from Beachwood High School in 1986.

His educational journey took him to the University of Michigan, where he embarked on a path that would eventually lead him to Harvard Law School, from which he graduated in 1995.

It was during his time as a corporate litigator at the New York office of Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue that he discovered his true calling lay elsewhere.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and ScreenwriterA Leap of Faith: Transition to Comedy Writing

Jonathan Goldstein’s heart was in comedy, and he decided to follow his passion.

In 1998, he made the bold move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy writing. His decision to take a leap of faith would ultimately redefine his life and lead him to creative heights.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter – Collaboration with John Francis Daley

A pivotal moment in Jonathan Goldstein’s career was his collaboration with John Francis Daley, a partnership that would prove to be a powerhouse in the world of filmmaking.

Their journey together began after they met on “The Geena Davis Show.” Together, they formed a dynamic duo, complementing each other’s talents and igniting a creative spark that would lead to numerous successful projects.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter Early Comedy Ventures

Daley and Goldstein initially made their mark in the comedy genre. Their collaborative efforts resulted in co-screenwriting for “Horrible Bosses” (2011), co-writing for “The Incredible Burt Wonderstone” (2013), and co-story writing for “Horrible Bosses 2” (2014). The comedic synergy between the two was undeniable, and it paved the way for their future successes.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter
Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter
Venturing into Direction: “Vacation”

Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley transitioned from writing to directing with “Vacation” (2015), a follow-up to the iconic 1983 comedy film “National Lampoon’s Vacation.”

The film, starring Ed Helms as the adult Rusty Griswold, struck a chord with audiences and grossed over $104 million worldwide, proving their prowess in filmmaking extended beyond the written word.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and ScreenwriterSpider-Man and Beyond

In 2017, Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley were entrusted with the screenplay for “Spider-Man: Homecoming.”

While they were considered for the directorial role, Jon Watts ultimately helmed the project.

Their contribution to the script played a significant part in the film’s critical and financial success.

Game Night: A Triumph in Black Comedy

The duo’s directorial talents came to the forefront with “Game Night” (2018), a black comedy that earned acclaim for its sharp script and stellar performances.

Starring Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams, the film grossed $117 million worldwide, showcasing their ability to craft innovative and well-received comedies.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and ScreenwriterThe Flash and DC Universe

In 2018, Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley were poised to direct a film adaptation of DC Comics’ “The Flash” for the DC Extended Universe.

Although they later departed from the project, their involvement left an indelible mark, and they received the story by credit.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter
Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter
Reimagining “Dungeons & Dragons”

The dynamic duo’s creative journey continues with the reboot of “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” (2023).

In addition to directing, they undertook the task of rewriting the screenplay.

As of May 11, 2023, the film has achieved remarkable success, grossing over $203 million worldwide, solidifying their status as a Hollywood powerhouse.

Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter

Jonathan Goldstein’s career is a testament to the transformative power of following one’s passion.

From a corporate litigator to a comedic genius and a Hollywood director, his journey is an inspiring tale of resilience, creativity, and collaboration.

With each project, he continues to captivate audiences and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of cinema.

Jonathan Goldstein, along with John Francis Daley, is a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment, and their future endeavors are eagerly anticipated by fans and industry insiders alike.

Filmography

Short Films

YearFilm TitleDirected ByWritten By
2001“What Babies Do”DirectedNot Written
2011“Audio Tour”DirectedWritten

Feature Films

YearFilm TitleDirectorial RoleScreenwriting RoleExecutive Production Role
2011“Horrible Bosses”Not DirectedScreenwriterNot an Executive Producer
2013“The Incredible Burt Wonderstone”Not DirectedScreenwriterNot an Executive Producer
2013“Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2”Not DirectedScreenwriterNot an Executive Producer
2014“Horrible Bosses 2”Not DirectedStory ContributorNot an Executive Producer
2015“Vacation”DirectedScreenwriterNot an Executive Producer
2017“Spider-Man: Homecoming”Not DirectedScreenwriterNot an Executive Producer
2018“Game Night”DirectedUncredited ScreenwriterNot an Executive Producer
2021“Vacation Friends”Not DirectedScreenwriterNot an Executive Producer
2023“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves”DirectedScreenwriterExecutive Producer
2023“The Flash”Not DirectedStory ContributorNot an Executive Producer
Jonathan Goldstein Director and Screenwriter

Television

YearTV Show TitleDirected EpisodeWritten EpisodeAdditional Notes
2011“Bones”Not DirectedEpisode WriterEpisode: “The Truth in the Myth”
2019“In the Dark”DirectedEpisode WriterEpisode: “All About the Benjamin”; Also consulting producer
2021“Welcome to Georgia”Not DirectedEpisode Writer

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