TRACY SHERWOOD
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 PictureTRACY SHERWOOD
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
I live in 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 idea came to me in a strange dream a decade ago about a young man working in a suicide prevention center who receives an anonymous call from a terrified teen girl pleading for help because someone is trying to kill her. He is the only one who can save her, she says. Then the call is disconnected. There is no way to trace the number. What is he to do? My first thought upon waking was that it would make for an interesting story. But where to go from there? It took me a long time to find out. The path was filled with many wrong turns that could have become dead ends if I hadn’t believed I’d eventually discover the right direction. Yet, the headlights only showed me the road a few feet in front. Many times, I had no idea where this story was headed or why I was even pursuing it. Something inside just told me to keep going. However, I did take intermittent breaks to work on other projects. Eternal was conceived as a script because of its highly visible nature and sense of immediacy. However, I am considering writing Eternal as a novel.

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 longer writing Eternal than originally anticipated as the themes and premise continued to evolve to reflect current times. I always knew the beginning and twist ending. But the middle was something like The Shining maze. How do I get there from here? It was a matter of putting the pieces of plot together to figure out what the story wanted to say…and that became my map. That was the real A-HA moment.
I start with the concept and premise. Then comes the synopsis, outline and index cards taped to my walls (the index cards make for interesting conversation starters--especially when I have repair workers).

What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
To sell scripts.

Was your entry at The Wiki Screenplay Contest a full script or “the first ten pages”? Why did you make that choice?
I finally had the completed script and choose the full reading because of the thorough studio-style notes along with the strong online reviews of Wiki Screenplay Contest.

What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show...and why?
I tend to lean into shows or movies that have a heart no matter the genre. Although, I enjoy many recent works my all-time favorite films are: The Graduate and Chinatown. They each stand the test of time, have relatable protagonists and compelling themes regarding redemption (Chinatown) and identity (The Graduate). The writing, performances and production values are outstanding. They also have heart.

What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
What is the deeper story you want to tell, who specifically is it for and why now is it important? Hone your material to the point you believe it can’t be rewritten any further…and then remember that a script is a living, breathing thing subject to change. Take any notes or criticisms that will help improve your writing and discard the most discouraging. But always keep the reason why you must do it.

What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
My main genres are thriller, drama and horror. I’m writing a thriller noir feature film script based upon the true murder cover-up of a young woman at the hands of a powerful official’s son. Also, I am co-authoring a true crime memoir about a cold case murder.