| I knew I wanted to be a screenwriter........
since fifth grade, when a teacher inspired me
with encouragement.
I know I've succeeded........
because I’ve written a story that still
captures my attention every time I read it.
My inspiration to write
OF HIPPOCRATIC BLOOD.......
was to create a new genre of realistic
vampires.
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FilmMakers
Magazine:
What inspired you to write?
Lou Tasciotti: I wrote a novel version of it first. I couldn’t
write it fast enough.
FilmMakers Magazine: What did you do to prepare yourself to write your first script?
Lou Tasciotti: I read lots of screenplays and books, especially
McKee’s STORY, and Fields’ SCREENPLAY. I took classes at SMU and at
screenwriting conventions, and I met with my writers’ group every two
weeks.
FilmMakers Magazine: Is this your first script and how long did it take you to complete?
Lou Tasciotti: Yes. Two drafts, six months apiece.
FilmMakers Magazine: Do you have a set routine, place and time management for writing?
Lou Tasciotti:
I
get up two hours early, six days a week. I used to write in the
closet; now I have my own room.
FilmMakers Magazine: Do you believe screenplay contests are important for aspiring
screenwriters and why?
Lou Tasciotti:
Yes. Good work will get read and noticed.
FilmMakers Magazine: What influenced you to enter the
FilmMakers International Screenwriting Awards?
Lou Tasciotti: Size. I was looking for
a large, competitive venue.
FilmMakers Magazine: What script would you urge aspiring writers to read and why?
Lou Tasciotti: Every one they can. You learn something from every
script you read.
FilmMakers Magazine: Beside screenwriting what are you passionate about and why?
Lou Tasciotti: All music. Opera and ballet, especially. And restoring
Steinway pianos. Why? Because I’ve been enchanted by the Muse.
FilmMakers Magazine: Who is your favorite Screenwriter
and Why?
Lou Tasciotti: Hitchcock, because he understood human nature so well.
FilmMakers Magazine: Name the director you would love to work with and why?
Lou Tasciotti: Spielberg, because we share an optimistic view of humankind’s
future.
FilmMakers
Magazine: Name the actor you would love to work with and why?
Lou Tasciotti: Traci Lords. She is not only a goddess, but a brilliant actress;
her act fooled a whole town full of actors!
FilmMakers Magazine: Any tips and things learned along the way to pass on to others?
Lou Tasciotti: Don’t work in a vacuum. Seek the opinions of
professionals. Join a writers group. Don’t defend your work
against criticism; rewrite it! Spend time alone…Get rid of
your headphones, turn off the radio, take long walks, long
baths and live in your story.
FilmMakers Magazine: What's next for you?
Lou Tasciotti:
I’ve finished another screenplay and will enter it in
competitions as soon as my writers group proofs it.·
FilmMakers Magazine: Where will you be five years from now?
Lou Tasciotti:
Santa Barbara. |
