Michael Sledge & Daniel Peddle: Adapting Gritty NC Crime Thriller ‘Cold Moon Rising’ for the Big Screen

What happens when a high-level corporate finance executive spends nine years rising before dawn to write a gritty North Carolina-based crime novel that catches the attention of an acclaimed, award-winning indie filmmaker? In this episode of 1on1 with Jon Evans, author Michael Sledge and NC native filmmaker Daniel Peddle join Jon to discuss their creative partnership adapting Sledge’s debut crime novel, Cold Moon Rising, into a feature-length screenplay.

Michael shares the disciplined writing routine that carried him from the corporate boardroom to the literary world, while Daniel reflects on his 25-year filmmaking career and what drew him back to the rich landscapes of North Carolina—from the historic streets of Raleigh and Wilmington to the remote wilderness of the Alligator River Preserve. Together, they break down the challenges of turning words into visual storytelling, peeling back layers of complex characters, and pitching an authentic North Carolina story to Hollywood producers.

Whether you're an aspiring author, film buff, or fan of homegrown Carolina stories, this conversation offers a fascinating look at creative reinvention, collaboration, and cinematic storytelling.

Check out past episodes of the 1on1 with Jon Evans podcast online at wect.com and across your favorite podcast platforms.

Jon Evans of WECT/Fox Wilmington is in his 48th year of television news. He's asked a lot of questions, and you've seen or heard the answers on his newscasts. Jon is now asking different questions, going in-depth with interviews and learning things that only a few people know. Politicians, business leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, entertainers - you'll know them better after hearing them go "1 on 1 with Jon Evans."