ANTHONY J. ANDERSEN
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
San Diego, CA 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? As a passionate enthusiast of adult animation and an ardent admirer of penguins, I envisioned an animated series that centers around a quirky ensemble of misfit penguins, infused with a dose of comical irreverence. 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 journey began twelve years ago, when I dedicated two weeks to crafting the first draft of what would become “Arctic Mania.” Initially, it was merely a playful concept, one I approached without any expectations of pursuing further. After completing that draft, I set it aside and shifted my focus to other projects. However, recently, while revisiting my earlier scripts, I stumbled upon “Arctic Mania” once more. The idea still resonated with me, prompting me to develop a new draft that incorporates fresh humor and aligns with contemporary cultural themes. My writing process begins with a short outline, addressing the main characters, opening scene and the ending. Once I have those elements, I hit FADE IN and fill in the rest as I go. What is your ultimate ambition as a writer? My goal as a writer is to secure representation from someone who recognizes my potential and believes in the value of my work. I am not driven by the pursuit of fame or fortune; my aspiration is to be acknowledged as a legitimate writer and to sustain myself by doing what I am truly passionate about. Was your entry at The Wiki Screenplay Contest a full script or “the first ten pages”? Why did you make that choice? My submission is a complete TV pilot script. I chose this format because I felt confident in this draft, knowing that the judges would be compelled to read beyond the first ten pages. What is your all-time favorite movie or television show...and why? My all-time favorite film is "Braveheart." I first watched it when I was twelve years old, and it left an indelible mark on me. It was the moment I began to appreciate cinema as an art form, captivated by the storytelling, cinematography, and score. Even after 28 years, my admiration for it remains unchanged. What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have? To my fellow writers, my singular piece of advice is this: never give up. If storytelling transcends mere passion for you—if it brings you peace and fulfillment—then have faith in yourself. Always seek innovative ways to refine your craft. What else are you working on that the world needs to know about? Currently, I am developing a new TV pilot titled "Behind the Velvet Rope." This hour-long drama follows a rising star in Hollywood who opens an exclusive nightclub as a means of escaping the relentless pressures of fame. |
