Diedrik Hoogstraten on Washington at 22, Before the Statue

Screenwriter Diedrik Hoogstraten grew up in socialist-era Holland watching American sitcoms and dreaming of a country he'd only seen on TV. Now a naturalized citizen, he co-wrote "Young Washington" — the July 4th release timed to America's 250th anniversary.In this episode, Diedrik joins Lee Gentry to talk about the story behind the film and the man behind the myth.What we cover:- How director Jon Erwin's vision for Wonder Project (with Diedrik's wife Kaitlyn leading the business side) brought the movie to life- Why the film starts when George Washington is 11 and ends at age 22 — decades before 1776- Washington's early failures, including the tactical errors that helped start the French and Indian War- The influence of his mother Mary and the idea that "failure is a tutor sent by God"- Making family-friendly films without sacrificing production value- What's next: a follow-up film titled "1776" and Diedrik's screenplay for "God's Smuggler"Diedrik's perspective as someone who chose America adds a layer you don't often hear in conversations about the Founding Fathers.Catch "Young Washington" in theaters now.Timestamps00:37 Welcoming Diedrick Hoogstraten01:36 How Wonder Project and the film came together04:03 Becoming American: a Dutchman's patriotism09:02 Inside Young Washington's story14:03 Failure as a tutor: forging character18:27 A film for every American, not left or right21:15 Wonder Project's mission for family entertainment25:16 Lessons for young audiences today28:47 Anti-fragility and America's second chances31:01 What's next: 1776 and God's Smuggler32:40 Why audiences should see Young Washington