WRITER PROFILE
It’s always great to get together with a large group of writers and investors and keep up to date on what’s new, the screenplay contest, any recent deals, new dealmaker contacts, agents or managers that are looking and simply encouraging everyone to keep going after every dream in this difficult industry. For the hard working writer we want to do as much as we can to continue the exposure and word of mouth in the investment circles of the industry. Another way we do this is with writer interviews that we send far and wide and showcase at all possible meetings and markets.
We want to encourage your writing spirit, motivate you and again give you the accolades you so deserve.
Castillo
Written by Brad Lohan
What motivated you to become a writer?
I’ve always had an overabundance of imagination in need of an outlet. Writing is like solving a puzzle, but you invent the pieces as you go. It’s how I explore ideas, perspectives and lives outside of my own.
Starting on a blank page is not easy- where does your creativity come from?
My creativity comes from my desire to better understand myself and the world. Despite our modern conveniences, I think we’re in the second decade of a century that’s not living up to its expectations. It’s through art that I process my complicated feelings and emotions, borne out of this confusing age. I find it deeply satisfying to create characters with unresolved issues and a scenario in which they can overcome their pain. It provides me with a catharsis that I certainly don’t get from reading the news.
Do you write projects knowing that so many other factors need to happen to get it to screen and does that come into your project creation?
Most of the projects that I write are ultra-low-budget short films that I self-produce, so the short answer to this question is “absolutely.” Now, this project is more high-concept than what I typically write, but it’s also something that’s A) not too esoteric for international audiences, B) a genre that traditionally has a strong opening weekend, C) not a star vehicle that requires expensive A-list talent.
What is your dream for this project and what other ancillary revenue do you think it could generate? Please include script title in reply.
My dream for “Castillo” is of course to see it produced as a successful feature film and the beginning of an exciting new franchise. As far as ancillary revenue, I believe that the character and the story world can inspire sequels, spinoffs, video games, comic books, action figures, t-shirts, etc. As a fan of these types of franchises, I wanted to lay the groundwork for my own.
How has your experience been with screenwriting contests for this project so far?
I’ve been a quarter or semi-finalist with other scripts, but unfortunately haven’t won yet.
If you could stand in a room full of investor partners looking at many projects what would you like them to know about you and this project?
When you look at the box office grosses of similar types of R-rated, female-driven, action/horror franchises like “Underworld” and “Resident Evil,” half a billion dollars is the floor and over a billion is the current ceiling. If this is project is done right, it could launch its own highly-profitable cinematic universe, unencumbered by the baggage of being a decades-old saga.
Do you have any website links for your writing, credits, background, etc. that you would like to share?
I’m on IMDb. I’ve written, produced and directed three short films that I self-financed. I’m also an Associate Producer on a friend’s low-budget film project.