What motivated you to become a writer?
I’ve always enjoyed journaling and writing from an early age. In college I thrived in writing on all types of different subject matters. It wasn’t until recently that I started creative writing and writing screenplays. I had an idea and taught myself how to write a screenplay. So far, the learning process has been the best part of the journey. I’m still early in calling myself a screenwriter but I am enjoying learning how to become one.
Starting on a blank page is not easy- where does your creativity come from?
Real life experiences. I am an observer and I am constantly observing people, places, things. I am always making movies in my mind based on things I see. The world provides endless material if you just pay attention.
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?
I write for the story, not for the production. Since I have never written a pilot or anything in this realm, my primary focus was on the storytelling and ensuring it was meaningful and that it would matter to people. I know nothing about the production side yet, however I am excited to learn about that side so that I can have a well-rounded understanding of the entire process, from start to finish.
What is your dream for this project and what other ancillary revenue do you think it could generate?
My dream for The Juror of Ethics- The Foreigners Promise Pilot is for it to generate curiosity about what comes next. I want the viewer to want to see the next episodes and follow along the journey, become invested in the journey and I’d like it to provoke thoughtful and meaningful dialogue about the issues presented in each episode
With regard to other ancillary revenue:
· Podcast series unpacking each episode’s ethical case
· Syndication/streaming licensing after initial run
· International licensing/format sales.
How has your experience been with screenwriting contests for this project so far?
This is my first time entering contests and so far, I have had great experiences. There have been lots of different opportunities to submit my pilot to and I enjoy the feedback the most. I take all feedback and incorporate into project, making it a better version of itself. The process of submitting is easy and I look forward to entering more.
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?
I would like them to know that this project stemmed from a day at jury duty. All the things that I observed sparked an idea and along came the seed for the story. It’s a unique perspective into a world that isn’t highly discussed, but that makes such a huge impact on the lives of others.