EP118 Darrin Fletcher & Chet Thomas, Sneak on the Lot, FletChet Entertainment – TV Matters
In our recent episode of the TV Matters Podcast, I spoke with Darren Fletcher and Chet Thomas from FletChet Entertainment. This talented duo has been creating impactful narrative and documentary projects for over 15 years, including the anti-child trafficking documentary The Abolitionists and Waterman, a project celebrating the legacy of a legendary Hawaiian surfer. Their work goes beyond filmmaking: they’re deeply invested in the next generation of storytellers through Sneak on the Lot, a groundbreaking education platform that teaches teachers and students filmmaking hands-on.
Fletch and Chet bring a rich professional background to their work with young filmmakers. Fletch started his career as a storyboard artist, “The objective is to try and capture on paper what a director has in their head,” he explained. Meanwhile, Chet began his journey by learning the ropes of story development and producing, “My career started at DreamWorks, shuffling scripts and working in story development. Eventually, it turned creative, and I had a hand in finding scripts for the next big DreamWorks hit.”
Their unique paths eventually intersected, leading them to co-direct projects. Fletch’s eye for visuals and Chet’s knack for working with actors give them a dynamic on set that audiences feel on screen. For a recent project, Mystic Hollow, Chet was able to take a second unit down the street while Fletch coordinated the first team — something single directors can’t easily do.
Building Sneak on the Lot: Where Passion Meets Impact
The story of Sneak on the Lot began as a response to the tragedy of the Columbine shooting. Fletch recalled how, soon after the tragedy, he felt a pull to make a difference. “My brother was a high school teacher, and I asked him if I could give his students an assignment to express what they were feeling,” he shared. What came back were raw, unfiltered responses, some revealing students close to the edge. “I knew then that we had to do something.”
That “something” became Sneak on the Lot, a platform that doesn’t just teach filmmaking but gives students a voice. Over time, Sneak on the Lot has evolved into workshops for teachers and students, a curriculum, and an immersive, 3D Hollywood backlot experience where students can walk around, and talk to industry characters. It’s a gamified approach, yet rooted in reality — students gain skills, build portfolios, and even compete for real opportunities on actual productions. “If making movies gives kids a way to express themselves without a weapon, we’re doing something right,” Fletch said, summarizing the mission.
Empowering Teachers and Students with SkillsUSA
Beyond student engagement, Fletch and Chet have also become significant contributors to SkillsUSA, serving as committee chairs for the Digital Cinema program. SkillsUSA allows high school students to engage in industry-standard film competitions and conferences. “In past years, we were just judges. Now, we’re fully invested in making this a professional experience for these kids,” said Chet, adding that COVID allowed them to transition SkillsUSA into a virtual film festival where students could submit polished films made on their home turf. This approach gives students more time to showcase their skills and turns SkillsUSA into a platform that can help students build meaningful portfolios. “I’ve never been a fan of 48-hour film festivals,” Fletch said that he can’t complete a film in 48 hours, so why should kids? “Especially for kids who need time to bring their ideas to life.”
A New Christmas Classic in the Making: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Amidst their educational work, Fletch and Chet have also been busy with their latest film, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, which hits theaters on November 8th. Based on Barbara Robinson’s beloved holiday story, this adaptation is directed by Dallas Jenkins, creator of the acclaimed series The Chosen. As Chet shared, “Dallas had been asking us for 13 years to direct the movie, and after the success of The Chosen, we finally felt he was the right guy to bring this story to life.” Featuring stars like Lauren Graham, Judy Greer, and comedian Pete Holmes, it’s a heartwarming story set to become a new holiday favorite. “We’ve put 15 years into this film, and we’re incredibly proud of the final result,” said Fletch.
The Future Vision of Sneak on the Lot: A Hollywood Metaverse
As Fletch and Chet look ahead, they’re more committed than ever to growing Sneak on the Lot into a full-fledged Hollywood metaverse. Students and aspiring filmmakers will soon have the chance to “sneak on” the virtual lot, where they can interview characters, unlock achievements, and even earn opportunities to work on Fletch Chet Entertainment’s real-life productions. As Chet explained, “We’re building a world where the Hollywood backlot isn’t just virtual; it’s a gateway for young filmmakers to gain hands-on experience and connect with industry mentors.” They’re even bringing partners like Decentralized Pictures into the lot, offering finishing funds and other resources that could make a real impact on students’ lives.
This project isn’t just about creating a game — it’s about creating a meaningful, lasting pathway for young filmmakers. “We’re not just mimicking Hollywood; we’re offering real opportunities to connect, learn, and create,” said Fletch. “And maybe even break into the industry in ways that go beyond connections and finances.”
Conclusion
Talking with Fletch and Chet was an inspiring reminder of how film can change lives on screen and in classrooms and communities. Their work with Sneak on the Lot and SkillsUSA creates pathways for young filmmakers beyond traditional education.
Resources:
- Sneak on the Lot – Sneak on the Lot website
An educational platform that offers filmmaking tools, curriculum, and a 3D Hollywood backlot experience for students. - SkillsUSA Digital Cinema Program – SkillsUSA Digital Cinema Overview
SkillsUSA is a nationwide competition and career development platform that helps students in various trades, including digital cinema. - The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (film)
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever releases on November 8. Here’s a link to the trailer or Lionsgate’s movie page. - The Chosen – The Chosen Series
Directed by The Best Christmas Pageant Ever director Dallas Jenkins, The Chosen is a popular series that inspired Jenkins’ recent work on this holiday classic. - DreamWorks – DreamWorks Official Site
DreamWorks is where Chet began his career in story development, which shaped much of his early experience in the industry. - Decentralized Pictures – DCP Official Website
A platform that provides funding and resources for filmmakers, now partnering with Sneak on the Lot to offer real opportunities within their virtual backlot experience. - Warner Chapel Music – Warner Chapel Production Music
Warner Chapel provides music licensing for educational purposes within Sneak on the Lot’s student projects. - FletChet Entertainment – FletChet Entertainment
The production company behind projects like The Abolitionists, Waterman, and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.
