P.J PALMER
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 PicturePJ PALMER
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
I live on both U.S. coasts - in Santa Monica, CA and in Manhattan, NY

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?
IF YOU GO was inspired by a story that actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler (The Sopranos) shared with me a few months ago. Her family had gone through a harrowing ordeal that involved being in the ICU and being uncertain of the outcomes in a life and death situation. After reading what she had sent me and meeting with her to listen to the story first-hand, it reminded me of some intense stories from my own life. Different in details, but the emotions were adjacent. And so I dove into writing this short film based on that emotional journey, of the uncertainty of life. As a filmmaker, I only focus on scripts. I haven’t written a short story or novel (yet).

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?
This one was fast. I stared thinking about it in October of 2025. Did some research in November (read a couple of books and dug into some blogs that deal with near-death experiences) and then started writing in December. My first draft was done over the holidays. I don’t generally write this fast, but this one came to me quickly. I always outline, and mostly I use index cards. Sometimes a white board (digitally, like FreeForm or Final Draft boards).

What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
Always to write scripts that I direct.

Was your entry at The Wiki Screenplay Contest a full script or “the first ten pages”? Why did you make that choice?
I sent in the full script, about 25 pages. And I did that because for me, the entire script must be read to understand it. Feature or short, I would always only send the entire script. There is too much at stake as a writer for me to only give a portion of it. I want to be analyzed, judged and covered on the entire work.

What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show...and why?
I always go back to THE SHINING. And I am not a fan of horror! (I get scared way too easily! LOL) But Kubric is a genius, and for me, that film is a masterpiece in filmmaking. THE SOPRANOS is one of my top TV shows. I have seen the entire series a few times now. And will likely go back to it again someday. But also, THE GOLDEN GIRLS… because, well, those ladies are just brilliant.

What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
Get coverage. Lots of it. Look for patterns in the feedback. I don’t always agree with the coverage I get, but the more coverage I submit for on a script, the easier it is to see blind- spots as patterns start to emerge. Once you have your script getting higher scores, then get it out to festivals!

What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
I have several films I am working on right now. One feature that I directed is being submitted to festivals now. I have a couple of others in development. So, the world should know about each of these sooner than later. :)