Where do you live (City, State, or Country)? I live in a small town in Brazil's interior, and it's called Araçoiaba da Serra.
Your script stood out among hundreds of others. What was the inspiration for your story and why did you write a script instead of a short story or a novel? I always aim to craft something unique, something untouched by others. Even when working on an existing concept, I strive to infuse it with a fresh element that captivates and surprises. While books have their appeal, scripts possess a distinct quality—the enchantment of a narrative unfolds through a well-crafted script, brought to life by the talents of actors and actresses.
How long did it take you to write your script...and what is your writing process? Do you outline...use index cards...white board...or just start with FADE IN? The creative process unfolds in two main phases for me: the creation phase and the execution phase. During the creation phase, I kick off with an extensive brainstorming session, generating a multitude of ideas. Gradually, I sift through and analyze each one, whittling down the options until I settle on one or two that form the foundation for a comprehensive story with a well-defined beginning, middle, and end. In the second phase, my daily routine involves writing about five pages. However, it's not just about putting words on paper—I delve into thorough research, exploring the era, scientific aspects, settings, characters' professions, and the overarching themes that envelop the script.
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer? I'm determined to see my first script come to life. I approach my work with patience, responsibility, and a careful hand. If refining it a hundred times is what it takes, I'm committed to the process. Likewise, if generating a hundred more scripts is the path forward, I'm ready to embark on that journey.
Was your entry at The Wiki Screenplay Contest a full script or “the first ten pages”? Why did you make that choice? You're spot on about two critical aspects. Firstly, underscoring the significance of the initial 10 pages in captivating the viewer. Secondly, shedding light on the reality that some evaluators may not delve into the entire script. If the first few lines don't resonate, there's a chance the writer might be judged solely on that snippet, rather than the entirety of the script. I highly recommend all screenwriters take part in this competition and employ this approach: assess the first 10 lines. It proves to be incredibly beneficial. After all, this competition has been honing its expertise in this area for a considerable period, undoubtedly making them the best at it.
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show...and why? I have a strong affinity for science fiction, time travel, romance, and adventure—those are the genres I've been delving into and honing my skills. I find inspiration in films like "Somewhere in Time," "Groundhog Day," "Butterfly Effect," "In Time," "What Women Want," "Truman Show," "Forrest Gump," "The Mask," "Life of Pi," and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind." I'm particularly drawn to the works of directors like Tim Burton and Nancy Meyers. There's such a wealth of compelling content out there that it's challenging to narrow it down to just a few favorites.
What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have? Review, revise, rewrite, enhance scripts, and persist. We're in this together! Expect some unfavorable scores and encounters with unclassified competitions. But don't let it get you down—everyone goes through this phase. Many scripts have potential but require polishing. We're united in this journey!
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about? I keep writing scripts because I'm determined to excel at it. My goal is to craft texts that truly resonate with actors, actresses, and the audience.