Perhaps most well known for his screenwriting, directing, and producing work on the 100 Years of Horror video documentary series, Newsom is also notable for penning the screenplays of such science fiction and horror movies as Evil Spawn (1987); Time Tracers (1997); and Whispers from a Shallow Grave (2006).
Before beginning his screenwriting career, he served in the United States Army and studied at Portland State University, Los Angeles Pierce College, and California State University, Northridge.
He and John D. Brancato co-wrote a humor publication titled The Un-Official NFL Players Handbook.
Born to Patricia and Vernon Newsom, he spent his youth in Oregon, Washington, and California.
Although David Koepp ultimately received the sole writing credit for the Spider-Man movie, Newsom penned an early version of the screenplay.