NICK SOWMA
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 PictureNICK SOWMA
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Los Angeles, 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?
The inspiration for “Infinite Chess” was a conversation with my dad on an article he read, basically that an NGO was accused of being a front for the CIA. I have no idea if that’s actually true, but it sets up a great story.

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?
It depends a lot on the story. For Infinite Chess I wrote out a beat sheet, mostly to see if I could avoid the death of one of the characters at the end. When I couldn’t, I went back and adjusted the story to make sure it was an emotional pay off. Then, I started typing.

What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
I want to be a showrunner at the end of the day. I love creating the story AND doing the work on set to bring the story to life. Was your entry at The Wiki Screenplay Contest a full script or “the first ten pages”?

Why did you make that choice?
It was a full script entry. I always go for the full script when I can…the first ten pages are key BUT I want to know if the full story is working!

What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show...and why?
My favorite movie of all time has to be the first Rocky…it was THE underdog story. Plus, I love knowing that winning isn’t always about getting the knockout…sometimes its just about standing in the ring and proving you belong in the big leagues. As an emerging writer, I identify with that.

What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
My best advice is don’t write to win. Story and characters should always be the focus. If you place/win, great! But don’t let that get in your head. Write what you love. If you’re good, it’ll find its place.

What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
My favorite story, Courier Seven, about a reluctant assassin trying to find redemption even though his circumstances keep him from reaching it. I would love someone to get that into development!