STEPHANIE GOULD
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 PictureSTEPHANIE GOULD
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Boston, MA, USA

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 wrote the screenplay “Hearts in a Sling” originally as a short for a class in graduate school. I have my master’s in English & Creative Writing with a concentration in screenwriting. The screenplay for the short then morphed into a feature when I had to write my master thesis. I wanted to bring my real-life, lived experience to the screenplay, especially through the character of Zoe. I have mild cerebral palsy, like my main character, and as an actor, I wanted to create something that explored having CP as part of the character so that I could play an interesting part. I ultimately wrote the story to highlight different forms of disabilities: physical (Zoe’s CP), mental (Linette’s dementia), and emotional (Chris’ addiction issues).

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 took me a year to write. Since I had the short already, I knew I wanted to expand the story. The feature kept some key elements, but ultimately, it’s a more complete story than the short version. I use an outline and beat sheet for all my work. Whether it comes before I write FADE IN or after, there is always the guidepost for my work. I teach screenwriting at a local university, and I always tell my students that, “You are the architect, not the builder.” Meaning, you are creating a blueprint for others when your work gets into production. If you think of it this way, even creating something like an outline, beat sheet, or index cards, etc. becomes easier and ultimately enjoyable.

What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
I’ve worked professionally as an actor for the past 20 years. Having worked on shows like Orange is the New Black and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, I would love to write television in addition to writing features and shorts. Yet, I think my ultimate ambition is to create works that move people.

Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
I love Aaron Sorkin. I think his writing is impeccable. Greta Gerwig and Jesse Eisenberg are also favorites. I think they bring the actor’s mind to their writing. Recently, I’ve been reading Coralie Fargeat’s work after seeing The Substance, and her writing just blew my mind.

What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
That’s a tough one, but I’d have to say The Godfather Part I & II are my favorite movies. I know it’s cliché, but I think it stands the test of time. Recently, I’ve been loving The Pitt on HBO Max and I will forever love Orphan Black. It’s one of the most suspenseful yet humorous shows of all time.

What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
I think my main piece of advice is to write something that you can’t stop thinking about. Put yourself into your work. When you tell the truth with characters or situations, you highlight who you are as a writer.

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)
Right now, I’m teaching and acting. A short film I acted in called Plant People is making the festival rounds. You can find out more at www.stephaniegould.com and follow me on Instagram at @stephgould.