By Audrey Larson

We're so excited to present this week's interview with 18-year-old filmmaker Harrison Allen. Harrison's film The Yellow Block​ (2015) screened at nine festivals including the Texas Independent Film Festival and Laguna Film Festival. His second film, Meant for More (2016), screened at the Bonita Springs International Film Festival and the UK Screen One International Film Festival. Harrison is currently working on three other films to be completed: Gluebags, Dawson, and Of Grief and Guilt. Without further ado-- the talented, Harrison Allen! 

What kind of resources did you use when starting out? 

​When I first committed to the idea of creating a film, I had no production equipment whatsoever. I started an Indiegogo campaign to raise money for rentals. I also knew a few students in a high school film program and was able to borrow some equipment from them. We were able to reach our fundraising goal and were able to get everything we needed. 
I also read a lot of books on film history, director biographies, lighting, editing, and directing. The more I read, the more comfortable I felt in the director’s chair. They definitely helped and have had a large impact on my films both from technical and creative standpoints. Some of the books that I felt I learned the most from were: Directing by Michael Rabiger and Mick Hurbis-Cherrier, In The Blink Of An Eye by Walter Murch, Painting With Light by John Alton, Rebel Without A Crew by Robert Rodriguez, and The Art of Character by David Corbett. 

Tell us about your past/current projects:
​
I attempted to direct my first short film, Love, Anonymous in early 2014 and quickly found out I had gotten in way over my head. We filmed 27 pages of script in two days. We had 10 key cast members, 10 crew members, 45 teenage extras and also used a multi-camera setup. We made a lot of mistakes, mostly caused by inexperience, that made the post-production process much more difficult. It still isn’t completely finished.  I took a year off from making films to refine my directing ability. I came back with a better understanding of the role of the director and shot my short film The Yellow Block in June of 2015 and shot both Meant For More and Dawson a few months later. I’m currently in the midst of writing about half a dozen screenplays and will soon choose a project to pursue for my next short hopefully to be shot late this coming summer.

Tell us about a problem you’ve encountered in media production and how you resolved it:

I think getting my ideas and screenplays off the ground and into production has been the hardest challenge for me. Finding the money to put my story on the big screen has always been a struggle. Once I’m in production, everything runs relatively smoothly and according to plan. However, getting to that point is difficult. It takes money to produce a film and as a high school student, money can be fairly scarce. I would love to be able to create high budget films with great visual effects, intricate camera moves, crazy locations, and extensive production design but it just isn’t plausible for me at this stage in my career. Instead, I focus my energy on what I have and create stories around that. By writing films that involve actors, props, and locations I already had access to, I was able to create my films on very small budgets ($50-$250). 
I would eventually like to have the option of creating my more ambitious projects. I feel that not worrying about a budget would give me more creative freedom but for now, these low-budget films are great way for me to express myself without using many resources.

Why do YOU make films? What appeals most to you about this way of artistic expression? What kind of visual stories do you want to tell?

Someone once told me, “Our main purpose as filmmakers is to make people feel human.” That’s become my main motivation behind creating films. Whether my films make audiences happy, sad, or scared, knowing that something I made impacted someone like that makes the whole process worth it. 
From the time I was very young, I knew I wanted to tell stories. For the longest time, I tried telling them through books. Something about it didn’t seem right and I was never able to convey the exact story I wanted to tell. I would have this movie playing in my head but wouldn’t know how to convert it into words. When I discovered film I realized I could visually create an exact copy of the movie playing inside my head.
I prefer to tell stories that take place in worlds anyone could conceivably find themselves living in. I’m a fan of creating raw and real films that ordinary people can relate to especially dealing with scenarios that people are ambivalent about.

Who/what are you inspired by? 
​
Most of the ideas for my films originate from thoughts that come to mind randomly. Brainstorming sessions aren’t very productive in my process. Reflecting on things that I’ve read about or seen, whether it’s graffiti on a wall or a national news story, usually sparks a story. If I get stuck on a scene, I’ll step away until the solution comes naturally.
The idea of creating films first crossed my mind when a friend of mine showed me Wes Anderson’s Rushmore. Something about it gave me the urge to create. Wes Anderson has remained one of my favorite directors since then. I also enjoy directors Louis Malle, Robert Bresson, François Truffaut, Tom Hooper, Jean-Luc Godard, Jacques Demy, Guillermo Del Toro, Lars Von Trier, Roy Andersson, Sylvain Chomet, and Charlie Kaufman.

What’s next for you? What are your plans/hopes for the future?
​
My plan is to go to college in the fall and study Film and Television Production. I’d like to take my filmmaking to the next level and I believe that college is the first step. I’ve applied to Chapman Univeristy, LMU, NYU, RISD, SCAD, Emerson College, and Champlain College.

What advice would you give to other aspiring young filmmakers?

Focus on telling a compelling story using every tool in cinema. Tell your story not just with writing but also with sound, directing, cinematography, editing, acting, and light. A solid story will carry a film whether it was shot on a cinema camera or an iPhone. 
Also, don’t get discouraged. You will have to face rejection many times in this industry and it can be extremely daunting. Nobody likes to pour their heart into a project and then get the door slammed in their face but it is inevitable. Don’t let it get to you, focus on your work and how you can improve. Confidence in yourself and your artistic abilities is key.

You can view the trailer for The Yellow Block​ on Harrison's Vimeo page. You can also check it his IMDb page. 

By Audrey Larson

Nicholas Roberts, age 17, from Basking Ridge, New Jersey has been making films since he was 12. His favorite parts of media production are screenwriting, directing, and cinematography. He is the co-founder of his own production company, Avenue Production Company (currently in the midst of re-branding), which offers a wide range of services including videography and editing. He has written and directed several short films such as “Palooka”, about a boxer's inner thoughts during a fight, and "Don't Say It". Nicholas also won an honorable mention in FYP’s Summer of Screenwriting contest for his short script “Grandfather and Grandson”.

How did you get into media production?

I got my start in media production when I was in 7th grade and my parents let me watch Friday the 13th for the first time. I thought that the idea of the character Jason Voorhees was so cool and I wanted to portray the character in my own film. I planned and planned, but I never actually came close to filming. However, I took all the things that I had learned and I applied them to making another horror movie. I called it “The Door”. It was a simple half-a-minute short film about a murderer following someone into their house and killing them. The whole idea was that what you imagine is much scarier than what the director could show you, so the camera was pointed at the door for the whole film. The killer walks in, you hear the struggle, then the killer walks out.

What kinds of resources did you use when starting out? 

When I started one of my most valuable resources I had were the classes I was taking at the NJ Film school which I still take today. Unfortunately, I am nearing the end of courses at the film school. My last classes will be in June.

Tell us about some of your current projects:
One of my current projects is a longer film called P&H. I'm not sure exactly how long it's going to be but I think it will be around 20 or so minutes.

By Audrey Larson

​We're so excited to present our new blog series, Filmmakers of the Future! Each week we'll feature a young filmmaker (age 25 and under) and get the scoop on their experiences, projects, and advice for YOU. Without further ado, meet our first young filmmaker...Jamie Dolan!

Jamie Dolan, age 20, is from Rockaway Beach, Queens, NY. He is an actor, writer, and producer. He produced and co-wrote the feature film "Forgetting Sandy Glass" (post-production), and has written two other feature-length screenplays that are currently in development. He founded his own production company, Sandy Glass Productions. Some of his hobbies outside of the film business include basketball, trying out new food and coffee, meeting new people, and fashion.

How did you get into film production: 

I actually started out as an actor at an early age, acting in school plays when I was in 5th grade. But, it wasn't until freshmen year of high school when I found an acting school and began to study and try to learn the ins and outs of the business. As the years went on I continued to study. I kept pushing and fighting to be the best I could be, and to actually understand this business without getting ahead of myself and jumping in before I was ready. And that is one thing I strongly, strongly recommend that youth not do. Look, study, read, and listen as much as you can. Don't try to rush into the entertainment world before you're ready. Because it is a BUSINESS and you will get swept right off your feet. First impressions are everything. I know everyone wants that agent & manager, the overnight stardom. But that isn’t usually the case. Once you are strong and confident in what you do, you'll stand your ground and nobody can take advantage of you. 

Tell us about a challenge you've encountered in media production and how you resolved it:

I studied every single day, every week for years in high school. I missed out on social gatherings and events. I was in class, I was out there networking, I was reading. I made a lot of sacrifices. Around age 17, I wrote my first storyline for a movie I wanted to make— a short film. I had put in all the time and work, I was ready to show something. I put together a small group of people, which soon enough fell through and went downhill. It didn't work out; everyone went their separate ways. What did that leave? That left me behind with an amazing story to tell, and a burning passion to bring it to life. I was back at square one, sitting there with a great story and a 34-page short film script.

​But, actually I'd like to mention a very, very, inspiring actor-filmmaker. That is Mr. Bryan Cranston. If you don't know who he is, you should do your research. This man didn't really get his big break until later in his career. Let me tell you, this guy is probably one of the most genuine, crafty, artistic, actors out there. A lot of the business consists of money, fame, and that's it. So, when you still have true, genuine artists out there like Cranston, you have to show respect. And I do respect this man as an actor/person, because he is brilliant. ​

What advice would you give to other young aspiring filmmakers?

Pick up a pen and a piece of paper— start writing. Doesn't matter how bad it may be, just do it. We are in a media generation right now; write short skits, make a YouTube video with some friends. Just get involved and try to learn and grow from actually experiencing it. And if you're just starting out, chances are that you won't be working on a big studio set and being able to gather experience. That is why I am telling you to start creating your own work. Even if it isn't good at first, you'll get better. And there is no better way to learn then to actually be involved. So take classes, read books, study new movies, study old movies, learn the ins-and-outs of the business. Prepare yourself as much as you possibly can so when the time comes, you are ready and better than ever.

Jamie's film "Forgetting Sandy Glass" is available for worldwide pre-order on Vimeo. You can follow the film on Instagram and Facebook. For more about Jamie, find him on Instagram and Twitter @jamiemdolan or visit the Sandy Glass Productions website. 

By Audrey Larson

​After a brief hiatus from the blog since our "Screenwriter Spotlight" series this summer, we're back! In the past few months we saw our film DRAWING INSPIRATION screen at the awesome Boston International Kids Film Festival, had some great press (see the Boston Globe article we were featured in), and also pored over scripts to select finalists for our Summer of Screenwriting National Youth Script Contest (full winners list here). For this contest, FYP invited youth 18 and under from across the U.S. to submit their original screenplays of maximum 20 pages. Now's your chance to get to know the 1st place winner, Emily Connolly, 17, from Foxboro, MA who won for her script After Hours. Thanks to sponsors Final Draft, ShotPro, and Shot Lister for donating prizes! 

Without further ado... meet Emily! 

Emily Connolly is a senior at Foxborough High School.  Creative writing has been one of her favorite hobbies since the third grade.  Emily plays the flute in her school's band and runs long distance on the track team.  She also enjoys reading and spending time with friends. Her script is about a self-centered teenager, Daisy, who goes through her days making snap judgements of everyone she meets.  However, one night she discovers the hidden lives and unknown stories of the same people that she encountered during the day. After the final bell rings, the door closes, and the conversation ends, what will Daisy learn "after hours"?

Do you have any advice for other young writers/screenwriters like yourself? 

My advice would be to really stick with any screenwriting goals that you have, and not to shy away just because "the industry is too hard to get in to" or "it will take forever to finish this project".  It doesn't matter how young you are; any story that you believe in and you feel is an important one to tell is valid and one that you should pursue.

Also, on a completely different note, I would suggest that one reads as many screenplays and books as they can get their hands on, especially in a genre you're interested in writing.  

What are your goals for the future? Any more screenplays you're working on or ideas you'd like to develop? 

I am currently working on a pilot script for a television drama that I originally planned out as a book series. I'm super excited about this project, as I've been working on the story itself for several years now!

Interview by Audrey Larson

Bob Saenz has been writing professionally since 1995. He's optioned several original scripts and sold 8 to production companies and cable TV networks. His first produced film, “Help for the Holidays” (for Levinson Productions), was the Hallmark Channel’s #1 rated original film for 2012 and the 10th highest rated original Hallmark film of all time. Bob is also a SAG-AFTRA actor with numerous film and television credits. 

Tell us more about yourself and your screenwriting experience:

My name is Bob Saenz. I've been a working screenwriter and actor for the last 20 years. My produced/credited films as a writer include, the Larry Levinson produced “Help for the Holidays”,  “Cupid’s Bed & Breakfast”, “On Paper”, “Rescuing Madison”, “Romantically Speaking”, and the “Right Girl”, all for Cable TV Networks. I sold two other original scripts in 2014, “On the Move” an off center romantic comedy and “Extracurricular Activities” a dark comedy thriller. I optioned another to a New York Production Company, the big budget caper comedy “Baggage”, and have three other original specs scripts and three series ideas in play in LA.  I have been hired to do adaptations, rewrites and polishes on film scripts and television projects for Producers, Directors, and Production Companies in Hollywood and have optioned six of my original scripts to Hollywood Production Companies in the past. My acting roles include Hallmark’s “Valley of Light”, Francis Ford Coppola’s “Jack”, David Fincher’s “Zodiac”, Finn Taylor’s “The Darwin Awards” and the upcoming "Unleashed", "Helicopter Mom", and Chris Ford’s “The Village Barbershop”, among dozens of others. I also had a six year run as the recurring character Sgt. Carl Hoskins on the CBS TV show “Nash Bridges”. 

How did you get started in screenwriting?

I was acting on the series Nash Bridges and thought, "I can write this well." Of course I couldn't, because writing a script is not only an art, but a lot of work and discipline and education to do well. Took me a while to get the hang of it, but ended up optioning a script about a year after I started. It never got made, but I did get an invaluable education about how all of this works. Took me years more and a lot of close calls and rejection to finally get my first produced film.

Can you explain the process of selling a script? 

Sure. After writing it, you need to put it away for a couple of weeks and then reread it. You'll find all kinds of things you can do to improve it. That's where a rewrite comes in. Some professional writers do as many a six of these before sending it out. I know it seems like a lot of work, but you always want to send your best because you only get one chance with a script with any producer. Once you send it, if a producer likes it he will option it. An option is like somebody renting your script for a defined time period, normally a year. During that year, he will look for funding (money to make the film) and try to get interest from directors and stars. If he doesn't get funding or interest, after the year you get your script back and you get to keep the money they gave you to rent the script and you can sent it out again. If they fund the film and want to make it, then they buy the script from you at a price you agreed on when they optioned it.

What part of screenwriting do you find most difficult? 

The time it takes to do it right. A good script can take three to six months to write and be ready to send out. You have to be disciplined enough to work on it every day. The other difficult part is the rejection. As a writer you hear the word NO much much more than you hear YES. 

What was the most rewarding moment of your career so far? 

Watching my first produced film on the screen. It was a culmination of a lot of years of hard work and dreams.

Who are your favorite screenwriters? What are your favorite movie or TV scripts? 

You may not have heard of some of these people, but they write fabulous scripts: Gary Whitta. John August. Mike Sweeney, Nick Creature, Gary Graham, Mike Maples, Emily Blake, T.A. Snyder. I'm sure I've left some people out, but these are the ones off the top of my head. These writers work in the industry every day doing writing on projects for every major studio or TV network.

It's not so much what I like, that you, as a new writer, should read, but go on the the internet and look for the script from your favorite films and TV shows (you can find them) and read them. You'll learn so much from that exercise.

When coming up with an idea or writing a screenplay, how do you balance commercial viability (sticking to somewhat of a “formula”) with originality? 

It's a delicate balance. Being able to be original but remain in the confines of the three act story. What I mostly do is try to write a great story first and not worry about all the other stuff. I find if you write a great story you want to see and what you think your audience wants to see, the story points you need fall together naturally.

What’s next for you? What projects or screenplays are you working on now?

I'm reading three novels and couple of scripts to see if I can get the jobs adapting the novels or rewriting the scripts. I have a film I wrote filming in February of next year and another that may go in the summer. I'm writing a new Christmas film for Hallmark, at least I hope they buy it.

What advice or tips would you give to aspiring screenwriters (especially young ones):

Write and write and write. You learn by doing. Take classes (like you are) and learn about screenwriting. But again... write scripts. As many as you can.

Any activities/exercise you’d recommend to aspiring young screenwriters? 

Besides writing, you should also read as many scripts as you can. See what they did right. See what you think they did wrong and learn from it. Live a full life. Do things. Get out and experience life. Take classes on the subjects you want to write about. Climb mountains. Travel if you can. Meet new people. Get out. Don't stay inside just writing or playing video games or watching TV. Great writers draw on their life experiences and if you don't have any, you don't really have much to write about.

You can find Bob on IMDb and Twitter @BobSnz, or visit his website and blog at bobsaenz.com. 

Interview by Audrey Larson

Gerald Hanks is a screenwriter and screenwriting consultant from Houston, Texas. The films he's written have been in several short film contests like the 48-Hour Film Project, Splatterfest Horror Film Contest, and the Zone sci-fi film race. He's optioned two feature scripts and sold several short script. 

How did you get started in screenwriting? 

I've been doing some form of creative writing since I was a kid, but just recently got into writing for film. I was working on a novel, but I had a hard time finding a publisher, so I thought it would make for a good film. I found a group of filmmakers in Houston and discussed the project with them. They liked the script and saw that I knew the basics of storytelling, so they wanted me to help them with their projects. That's how I started with my first 48 Hour film, All That Glitters.

What is your pre-writing process? Do you plan a lot or jump right in to writing?

Since filming a movie requires so much effort from so many people, I take a lot of time in the outlining and planning stages. The planning helps me deliver the best script to the people who will bring it to life. I develop the characters to their fullest, including their favorite music, books and food. I also use a “Beat Sheet” to get a feel for the overall structure of the story. From there, I develop a scene-by-scene outline. The outline includes the setting, characters, action, conflict and emotional arc of each scene. With this outline, instead of writing a 100-page feature-length script, I'm just writing 40 scenes of 2 or 3 pages each. 

What part of screenwriting do you find most difficult? 

The first draft can be difficult. You want to get it right the first time, but it never is and never will be. For me, the most difficult part is the rewriting process. When I saw what garbage the first drafts of my earlier scripts were, I dreaded re-reading them. I had to learn that the first drafts are supposed to be garbage. The saying “writing is re-writing” is never more true than with screenplays!

What was the most rewarding moment of your career so far? 

While the films based on my scripts have won several awards, the most rewarding moments for me are when audience members talk about how well the films turn out. I've had actors and directors tell me how much they like my scripts and how they want to work with me. The best reward is the respect of your peers.

Who are your favorite screenwriters? What are your favorite movie or TV scripts? 

For dialogue, Quentin Tarantino is the master! For character and story structure, I have to go with John Lasseter and the Pixar crew. I just saw Inside Out and it was AMAZING! For story ideas and imagination, Christopher and Jonathan Nolan (Batman trilogy, Inception, Interstellar) are playing in a whole different league!

When coming up with an idea or writing a screenplay, how do you balance commercial viability (sticking to somewhat of a “formula”) with originality? 

I don't think that writers need to compromise originality or creativity for commercial success. If your characters have strong desires and chase after them with all their hearts, the audience will respond, regardless of genre or formula. Look at Guardians of the Galaxy. Even though it's based on a Marvel comic book, you still had a talking raccoon and a walking tree as major characters. Based on “commercial viability”, it should have flopped, but audiences LOVED that movie! I still LOVE that movie! I'm of the opinion that James Gunn did a better Star Wars movie in his first try with Guardians than George Lucas did with all three prequels combined!

What challenges are there when writing for film that aren’t present when writing for other mediums— like a play or novel? 

For rookie screenwriters, the biggest challenge lies in what NOT to include in your screenplay. Some writers like to include every detail of a character's appearance or a room's furniture. The writer has no control over what the director, producer, casting director, costume supervisor, or set designer will choose, so writers should only include the minimal details. Also, some rookie writers like to “over-direct” the actors in their scripts. Some do this by giving detailed instructions on facial expressions, body positioning and vocal inflections in the script. Others write about what the character is thinking or how they're feeling, rather than what they're doing. Simple rule: if the audience can't see it or hear it, don't write it.

What’s next for you? What projects or screenplays are you working on now?

I just finished a project for a short film contest called Cinespace. Richard Linklater (Boyhood, Dazed and Confused, Before Sunrise) is one of the judges. I also just completed a script for a film that is currently in pre-production and is scheduled to start shooting in September. I've had some meetings about some potential TV shows, so I'm waiting to hear on those projects. I also offer screenwriting consultations and script analysis for aspiring writers. I do one-on-one consultations for Houston-area writers, as well as phone consultations for those outside the Houston area. I also post pieces to my blog, Story Into Screenplay. I post screenwriting advice, movie reviews, and updates on my latest projects.

What advice or tips would you give to aspiring screenwriters (especially young ones):

Develop your characters. Actors want strong characters that give them powerful and challenging roles to play. Audiences want to see those characters struggle, grow and change. Take as much time as possible to develop your characters and their relationships. The plot, theme, structure and everything else in your will follow from your characters' journeys. Also, don't stress too much over your first draft. Give yourself permission to write total garbage in your first draft. Finish the first draft, get it out of your system, then fix the problems in your rewrites. A good script takes a few drafts, and a great script takes many, many more. This also solves the problem of writer's block, as you don't have to worry about if it's going to be any good – because it won't, and that's perfectly OK!


You can find Gerald on IMDb, or connect on Facebook and Twitter @StoryIntoScreen. Check out his website, Story Into Screenplay, or email him at storyintoscreenplayblog@gmail.com. 

Interview by Audrey Larson
 
Mike Messier is an award-winning screenwriter, director, and actor. He is the host of the RI cable access program "The Mike Messier Show". Mike hosts "Short Film Showcase", a TV show out of Seekonk, MA that features the best Filmmakers and Actors out of New England, and co-hosts "To the Edge", a roundtable discussion of pop culture and independent cinema. As a screenwriter/director, Mike won three awards for his Wrestling With Sanity- Short Film Trilogy: Imagine News Audience Choice, Ruff Cutz Audience Choice and Image Gazer Best Drama.

Introduce yourself, your film background, and screenwriting experience:

I’ve won eight awards in independent film & local TV. I am an Acting Coach of a workshop called Tao Zen Acting. As an Actor, I’ve worked principle with Cybill Shepherd and Wesley Snipes in Hard Luck and had a bit part in Hope Springs in a scene with Meryl Streep. I’ve been writing screenplays for about ten years. In my senior year of high school I took a TV production class. I wrote a script for class called War War III part II and I ended up acting in the movie as well. That script was wild, written pen on paper and we just made photo-copies of it. 

Some years later in college, Jorge Lomastro and I produced a real no-budget, eighty minute film titled Man In You – A Providence Love Story. It took us a year and a half to finish the film, but looking back, it was a real great experience, definitely jump in the deep end type of stuff. I was the lead character named ‘Guy Smith’, a man possessed by lust and weakness. We had a great soundtrack for the film, including artists from New York, Los Angeles, and Providence. 

This was ‘on the job training’ at its finest, working with personalities, egos, and such. There were no cell phones at the time and things were much, much different. We didn’t even have a full screenplay for the movie, although we did outline the story and scenes quite well, and the movie came out structured and cohesive, all things considered.

What do you find most rewarding about screenwriting? 

Screenwriting is more or less free, once you have the proper software and some education into the process. In other words, it doesn’t cost money to write, whereas it does cost money to produce an actual movie.

Screenwriting is the genesis of cinema and it should not be overlooked or taken for granted. 

Screenwriting, at least under ideal circumstances, is where the imagination can run free and wild, without concerns for budget or casting. Once a project gets off the ground, there may be many compromises with directors, producers and actors. At least with the first few drafts of a screenplay, a screenwriter usually has his or her creative integrity and vision unchallenged.  

How long does a feature vs. short script take you to complete? 

I’ve been able to write a decent short script, three to seven pages, in a few hours. A feature length first draft, I can accomplish in six weeks. I’ll want to chisel that feature script for as long as possible if given my druthers. 

Who are your favorite screenwriters? What are your favorite movie or TV scripts? 

He’s become a 90s cliché, but I’ll stick with Quentin Tarantino as a favorite screenwriter. The playwright Young Jean Lee is a wild writer and I used some of her odd plays in an Acting class I taught.  She has such freedom and humor. 

If you got to write the screen adaptation of any book, what would it be? 

I read many motivational, spiritual and inspirational books and I would love to translate a few of these into a screenplay. I actually wrote a script based my readings of such books. That script is titled A Search for the Muse.  

I’m currently working with author Daniel Simone on his book titled The Lufthansa Heist. It’s quite an intensive story and the characters are really colorful. 

What’s next for you? What projects or screenplays are you working on right now?

A Donkey for John is a short film I’ll be shooting in Maine in November. I’m working with Producer/Actor John Orlando and DP/Editor Chris Hunter. We’re calling it “A whole new animal of a comedy.” 

Distance from Avalon is a movie I’m currently gathering forces for. It’s an intense take on vampires, a very personal and relationship based tale, with a social commentary on cults and the nature of suicide. The teaser is on www.distancefromavalon.com. 

What advice or tips would you give to aspiring screenwriters:

Educate yourself with writing classes and by reading books, such as Screenplay – Writing the Picture by Russen and Downs and The Screenwriter’s Problem Solver by Syd Field. There are many, many books on screenwriting and I advise reading as many as possible. Stephen King’s On Writing is especially fun on audio. However, don’t be locked in or restrained by anyone else’s style or opinions. Ultimately, an original voice is fresher than a homogenized craftsman.

Join or start a screenwriter’s feedback group and give each other fair and honest feedback, without being cruel or “overly suggestive”. I’m in a group called “Writers of Wickenden” that meets at Café Zog in Providence, RI. The group members are very supportive and we’ve grown to be pretty tight with time.

In one of the books I’ve read, a screenwriter says that if a writer dedicates four hours to actually write each day, before too long that writer will actually start to be pretty decent. The same writer may want to incorporate regular exercise and walking into the mix and eat healthy food and drink plenty of water. 

Get out of the house to write. Find a coffeehouse, library, or park where you can bring your journal and/or laptop. It’s a bit more “human” and interactive than staying at home. If I’m writing at home, it’s usually late at night into the early morning. Having sports talk radio on or music I like is helpful. Burn some incense, light a candle. 

My best advice is to have an open mind and heart and allow the muse to enter you, unfiltered. Find your Zen.

Interview by Audrey Larson

Jim Vines is a professional screenwriter, script consultant, and author. He compiled and edited interviews with 16 screenwriters for his book "Q & A: The Working Screenwriter: An In-the-Trenches Perspective of Writing Movies in Today's Film Industry". Jim lives in Los Angeles, CA. 

Introduce yourself:

My name is Jim Vines. I was born in 1963 in New York City, but grew up in Beverly Hills, California. My parents were in the film and TV industry. Since the day I was born I’ve been a performer, somewhat of a comedian, and very creative. I started making Super-8 movies with my friends when I was eleven. During the 1980s I worked as a stuntman, still photographer, and I even carried heavy equipment around movie sets (they call that being a “grip”). I also worked at some big talent agencies, but those jobs were basically just office gigs. I officially began my career as a screenwriter around 1991. Though I had optioned a script or two just a few years later, it wasn’t until 1997 that I sold my first script. That script was actually produced—a thriller titled The Perfect Tenant—and was released on cable TV in 2000. Since then I have optioned many screenplays, have been assigned to write or adapt other scripts, and even had another movie produced a few years ago, but it has yet to be released. In 2004 I posted my short comedy, That Darn Bill, on YouTube. 

How did you get started in screenwriting? 

When I made movies as a kid, we never used a script of any kind. Remember, this was back in olden days, long back before everyone had a video camera. (Back then, pretty much the only place you could find a video camera was in a TV studio!) No, we used what’s called Super-8. It was actual movie film and it came in 50 foot cartridges. We didn’t even have sound! (Super-8 sound film showed up in about 1973, but I didn’t get my hands on it until 1979.) But anyway, we didn’t have to worry about writing dialogue because there wasn’t any. So the most I’d write was some sort of a brief outline. This happens, then something else happens…that sort of thing. It wasn’t until I got into high school that I had the chance to shoot on video tape. I did these goofy sketch comedy shows and we scripted everything. I loved coming up with crazy characters and writing dialogue for them. It was during those high school days that I also wrote my first screenplay; it wasn’t much, but it was the first. After high school I wrote some very short one-act plays, which I actually got to perform on stage at a few small theaters here in Los Angeles. I didn’t write much after that (I got married, had a daughter) and it wouldn’t be until the late 1980s that I decided to get back to writing screenplays.

What is your pre-writing process? 

I always tell budding writers to draw up some kind of an outline before they begin writing their script. You really need to know what the story is about, if it all works, if it makes sense, if it flows. It’s like planning a trip across country. You probably wouldn’t want to get in the car and just start driving. No, you’d want to map out your route. If you don’t, you could end up irretrievably lost. As for myself, I outline my script pretty extensively. I write what are called “scriptments,” which is a combination script and treatment. My scriptments are pretty detailed and can be 40 or so pages. Once I have the scriptment written, I sit down and write the actual script.

How long does it typically take you to complete a feature-length script (including editing)?

I’ve written a full-length screenplay, editing included, in less than 3 weeks. Was the script any good? Well, it wasn’t bad, but if I had taken more time on it, it would’ve been so much better. But I typically write a screenplay, outline and editing included, in 4 to 6 months. I know some writers who take a year or more to write a script. That’s fine if you’re not under a deadline, but if you’re lucky enough to sell an idea, or if you get a rewrite assignment (rewriting another writer’s screenplay), then you need to work fairly quickly. Producers won’t give you 9 months or a year; they’ll give you anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 or 4 months.

What part of screenwriting do you find most difficult? 

For me, the hard part comes after the screenplay is written. It’s getting the script out into the world and getting agents, managers, producers, etc. to read it. There’s a lot of wait, wait, wait in the film business. You have to have patience. But if you’re asking what the most difficult part is during the writing process…well, it’s just staying focused on that one idea for months and months. You have to make sure you love the idea you’re writing because you’re gonna be living with it an awfully long time.

When coming up with an idea or writing a screenplay, how do you balance commercial viability (sticking to somewhat of a “formula”) with originality? 

Sometimes you just have to take an old idea and update it, make it your own; you have to make it fit the times. There are plenty of movies from the past—going back to the 1920s—that have been updated and tweaked. I think A Star Is Born has been made something like 5 times in the past 80 years. Or, sometimes, you merely have to take an old idea and change the gender of the main character(s). That's what they're doing with the upcoming Ghostbusters movie. There's an old saying in Hollywood, which goes something like this: "I want something familiar...but it has to be completely different!"

What challenges are there when writing for film that aren’t present when writing for other mediums— like a play or novel?

Unlike in a novel, in a screenplay you can't wander off into scenes not entirely relevant to the "spine" of your story. In other words, if Indiana Jones is rescuing a damsel in distress from some creepy cave, you can't suddenly have him flashback to when he as a kid, rescuing a dog from a storm drain. No, with a movie you have stick to the story; it must always be moving in a forward direction. Dialogue is also very important in a screenplay. Dialogue that wanders aimlessly (unless it's pertinent to the character), or dialogue that isn't relevant to the story you're telling, is forbidden. Also—and this is so so so important—unlike plays and novels, screenplays need to be very visual. You're telling your story not only with dialogue, but with images (which will be important to the producer reading your script). Be a visual, cinematic screenwriter and you'll go far. 

Who are your favorite screenwriters? What are your favorite movie or TV scripts? 

I don’t really have any favorites. I do really enjoy William Goldman’s work. He wrote Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, which is one of my all-time favorite movies. I love Woody Allen (his stuff isn’t always great, but at least he’s usually pretty interesting, and his output is amazing). I think Shane Black can be a terrific writer. One of the best…and this is going way, way, way back to the 1940s…was Preston Sturges. Go watch Sullivan’s Travels and you’ll understand what I’m talking about. The man was truly amazing. I also think the stuff they’re doing on TV/cable nowadays is pretty interesting. It used to be that television was considered a wasteland, but now it’s far more inventive than what’s out in movie theaters!

What’s next for you? What projects or screenplays are you working on now?

I just wrapped up a rewrite assignment for a producer. I was glad to finally get done with it because I really wanted to get back to writing my next novel. Writing novels is my main focus right now and I honestly don’t see that focus changing any time soon. But don’t worry, I haven’t given up on screenwriting. It’s a great gig!

What advice or tips would you give to aspiring screenwriters (especially young ones)?

You need some brains in your head if you want to be a writer. So definitely stay in school. If at all possible, go to college. Consider going to film school. Most of all, start writing as soon as possible. Experiment with different types of writing. Write prose, write screenplays, write poetry, keep a daily journal. Remember: In your teenage years you’re not writing to sell, you’re writing to learn. Also, if you want to write you need to do more than sit around playing video games or goofing around on the Net. It’s so important to get out and live. You have to meet people and get involved in interesting things. Everything you do will eventually factor into your writing. The more you do, the more you know; the more you can write about with a degree of honesty.

Any activities/exercises you’d suggest for young writers to get better at screenwriting? 

You should be reading scripts written by professional screenwriters. Don’t read just three or four, read fifty…read 100! Don’t just read them, study them. If you can get printed copies, underline words and phrases you find interesting or funny or entertaining. This will help you come up with a writing style of your own. As you go through these scripts, underline words you don’t know and look up their meaning. Build your vocabulary. There are also several good how-to books available. Go online and get some suggestions from other writers, then read a few of these books. But I cannot stress enough how important it is to read pro scripts…or the importance of sitting down and actually writing material of your own. Get your writing critiqued by writers who know how scripts are put together. You should also be reading novels. So, those are all things that are high on my “to do” list for budding screenwriters. And finally, something to think about: Learning to write a screenplay that you can potentially sell can take a few years. It won’t necessarily be an easy thing, but if you really want to write movies or television shows, you have to put in lots of time and effort. But it’ll be soooooo worth it, you’ll see.

You can visit Jim's website, The Working Screenwriter, and follow him on Twitter @WriterJimVines. 

Interviewed by Audrey Larson

Michael W. Reid has been interested in screenwriting since he was 19 years old, but only became serious about it after retiring from his job 5 years ago. He's written 5 scripts ("Pranks", "Making Your Bones", "How to Handle Your Bullies", "Reunion Crashers", and "Retribution") and has his own production company, Two Guys from Brooklyn Films. He is also a director and part-time actor. He has studied at the Gotham Writers Workshop. 

How did you get started in screenwriting?

I became interested in screenwriting after reading Taxi Driver as a teenager. I also read all the works by Ingmar Bergman.

What is your pre-writing process?

I like to think about my subject before I write. I like to make an outline before I begin. I believe you must know where you are going before you begin.


What part of screenwriting do you find most difficult? 

I think the most difficult part of screenwriting is grammar. It is very important to know grammar.

What was the most rewarding moment of your career so far? 

I belong to a meet-up group for screenwriters. I believe it’s rewarding to speak to others and get their opinion of what you are writing. It may hurt sometimes, but it's rewarding.

Who are your favorite screenwriters? What are your favorite movie or TV scripts?

A couple of my favorite screenwriters are Aaron Sorkin, Ed Burns and Woody Allen. Some of my favorite movie scripts are Taxi Driver, The Tenant, Juno, and The Seventh Seal. Breaking Bad is my favorite TV script to read. 

What’s next for you? What projects or screenplays are you working on now?

I am currently working on a short film called Retribution— three victims exact revenge on a serial killer from the afterlife.

What advice or tips would you give to aspiring screenwriters:

My advice I would give is: pay attention in English class, learn the format and tell a good story.

Any specific screenwriting books you would recommend? 

I would recommend Pilar Alessandra’s book “The Coffee Break Screenwriter”; it really breaks down everything, especially rewriting. Also, “Screenplay” by Syd Field.

Connect with Michael on his Twitter profile or LinkedIn profile. You can also visit his production company's Facebook page.

How did you get into screenwriting? 

I didn't really get into screenwriting, I have always been a screenwriter. When I was in middle school I just started writing scripts and my friends and I would make them. I got more serious about it as I got older when I started reading other scripts and books on screenwriting. While I also direct and produce, I look at myself as a screenwriter first and foremost. 

What is your pre-writing process? Do you plan a lot or jump right in to writing?
 
I am too impatient to do a lot of planning so I am more of the jump in type but there are some things I always have to do first. Once I get the idea, I'll first come up with a one sentence logline to describe it. It doesn't have to be a perfect or groundbreaking logline, just a good focused sentence. Once I have that I am confident I truly know what I'm writing about and I'll expand it to a paragraph and then a page. If I have a good one-page outline that's when I'll often start writing my script. Sometimes I'll go longer on the outline, sometimes I'll use index cards to outline it-- but for the most part I just need a good solid one pager with a beginning middle and end so I have an idea of what I'm doing. However, it all starts with that sentence and having a basic focused idea to launch from. 

What part of writing a script do you find most difficult? 

Oddly enough it's character names. I struggle with that because every name sounds stupid and when you're naming a character it has to feel right. If we are talking about the writing process it's usually pages 35-50 because that's when you're initial enthusiasm has died, a new idea has popped into your head that always seems far more exciting and the end seems so far away. The most important thing is to push through that because every new idea always seems better because it's new and you'll get stuck in a cycle of writing 30 pages and giving up if you do that.

What do you find most rewarding about screenwriting? 

Finishing the first draft. When I know I completed the thought and it will no longer be terrorizing my brain. Yes I will do rewrites and polishes, but that is all much easier than creating a world from scratch and completing the idea. 

Who are your favorite screenwriters? What are your favorite movie or TV scripts? 

I find much of the great writing is on TV now. Vince Gilligan with Breaking Bad and Matthew Weiner with Mad Men do amazing work and those are shows that 20 years ago would have been feature films. Game of Thrones is always fantastic. With feature films I love Charlie Kaufman, Michael Mann and Quentin Tarrantino. Alexander Payne does great stuff and JC Chandor is quietly putting together an impressive string of films.

If you got to write the screen adaptation of any book, what would it be? 

Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. It would blend my two greatest passions - running and film.The story of that book is incredible and I've been thinking about adapting it forever but the rights have been purchased already. 

What’s next for you? What projects or screenplays are you working on right now?

I've been trying to get one of my scripts made so it's caused me to turn more towards the business and directing side of things. I'm making a short film in August and then in the fall I think I'll try to see if anything inspires me. I go through these phases where I feel dry for creative ideas and like I'll never have another good idea but something always pops in my head. It's good to let your brain recharge sometimes and not work on anything for a few days, weeks or months.

What advice or tips would you give to aspiring screenwriters? 

If you are working on a screenplay, write every day. It's a discipline and you force yourself to write new pages every day whether you know what you are going to write or not. 1 page, 10 pages-- just write. Get a routine and stick to it. Once you loose the momentum it's very difficult to get it back. Beyond that, write the movie you want to see. Everybody else will tell you what it should be or what you should change but that is the movie they want to see. You are the gatekeeper and need to keep your voice so don't feel like you have to listen (unless they are actually producing the movie or investing in it). In the end, if you're going to present something to the world it should be something you love, not something that is written to please others.