CHARLIE SHOUP
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​Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
I live in Los Angeles, California.
 
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?
Welcome to Hell has lived a few different lives and actually did start as a short story then two (failed) novel attempts. I believe that as you develop a story, it tells you what it wants to be. In this case, the determining factor was the setting: Hell. As I wrote, I found the underworld backdrop elevating to its own character of sorts. And I believe that character wanted to be shown visually.
 
In my short story, Satan’s Cake, we follow the devil himself on the miserable day of his retirement. I enjoyed being in this corporate interpretation of Hell so much that I wanted to continue filling it out to tell a larger scope story within the setting. That effort became this feature script, Welcome to Hell.
 
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?
I start illegibly scribbling a story roadmap on my comically large whiteboard. These scribbles turn into a five page outline. Though I hate writing outlines, the only thing I despise more is how much I need them. Otherwise, I’ll discover major story issues on page ninety of the script which usually sends me to a dark place. Only when I have a grasp on all the scenes and the flow of the story, do I bite my lip and open Final Draft.
From the first scribble to the version the judges have read, was about four months.
 
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
I don’t know about an ultimate ambition, but to see an original piece of mine make it to production would be incredibly fulfilling. I have thoroughly enjoyed working on the projects of others, but seeing something of my own on the screen is certainly an ambition.
 
Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
Kenneth Lonergan is a writer whose scenes I love because they always feel very grounded and believable. I believe this comes from his naturalistic approach to dialogue.
 
When I’m in need of more suspense and tension within my own stories, I rewatch and read Taylor Sheridan’s work.
And lastly, for comedy, my heroes are Tina Fey, Simon Rich, Jared and Jerusha Hess, and Michael Schur. The joke density and originality in each of their stories is something I always try to strive for.
 
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
Baz Luhrman’s Romeo and Juliet. I never get tired of seeing this timeless story and its anachronistic flair. Also, the guy who wrote it has quite the IMDb page.
 
What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
Well, this is the first bit of contest recognition I’ve ever received so I don’t know how qualified I am to be giving advice. But below are a couple things I tell myself.
-       “You don’t need permission to write”. I have been a staff writer at studios and loved each minute. But most of my career (including now) has been in between writing jobs. In the low moments when no one is calling and my emails aren’t getting replies, I remind myself that the starting gun lies in my hand.
-       “Take them out to a nice dinner”. Chances are there is someone in your personal life who supports you and wants you to succeed (it may be your partner, friend, parent, or teacher). They usually read your work without expectation of the favor being returned and know how to dance around your delicate pride. This is a very special person. Take them out to a nice dinner and thank them for the support. We writers are not an easy bunch so treat this person well.
 
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about? (be sure to include any links you want the world to check out)
Most of my work is featured on my website charlieshoup.com. Soon, I’ll be posting my latest feature screenplay, The Hit lady. Although it’s not available yet, below is a snapshot of the story:
Nadia has a curse. Anyone she gets to know mysteriously (and immediately) drops dead. She makes the most of her lonely life by becoming a killer for hire, but falling in love was not in the plans.

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