when, halfway through a BA in a
different field, I realized that the most important lessons I was
learning came from stories and literature rather than lectures.
I know I've succeeded.......
when, at the end of the day, I've done my best, tried my hardest, and
left the rest to God.
My inspiration to write SKIPTRASE MONDAY.......
was a good friend of mine, Will. He's a
mild-mannered gentleman but no less deep in college debt than
myself. After some lighthearted discussion of how far he would go to
pay his debt, we concluded that college both for the academics and
the economics is a wonderful way to mess up your priorities
and the
character "Blake" was born.
*****************************************************************
FilmMakers Magazine:
What inspired you to write?
Scott York: After a turning in a few dozen boring, deep,
philosophic papers for my sophomore classes, I realized I wanted to
write in a way that could be appreciated by family, friends, and my
community at large. I realized I wanted to write in a way that made
truths of philosophy more accessible not less.
FilmMakers Magazine: How did you prepare yourself to
write your first script?
Scott York:
I spend some time
"doodling" with my script software transcribing conversations or
things that had happened in my life into screenplay format. Since I've
never had a screenwriting class, doing that helped me get a feel for
how dialog and action should flow.
FilmMakers Magazine: Is
this your first script and how long did it take you to write SKIPTRASE MONDAY?
Scott York:
This is my first
complete script, yes. It took me a few hours to figure out the plot in
my head, I wrote it in one day, and had the final draft after about
three.
FilmMakers Magazine: Do you have a set routine, place and time management for writing?
Scott York:
I can't seem to write
if I have a blank document or paper in front of me. My best ideas
always come while I'm doing completely different things talking with
friends, daydreaming, hiking. So I make a point to always carry note
cards and a pen with me ideas don't wait for you to be ready for
them.
FilmMakers Magazine: Do you believe screenplay contests
are important for aspiring screenwriters and why?
Scott York:
Screenplay contests
are extremely important for aspiring screenwriters they provide two
of the most vital things a screenwriter needs: exposure and financial
assistance. As a college student working part time, I can't afford to
hire representation and it's sometimes difficult to justify taking
time from work to write. With the chance of winning prize money and
attracting attention from the film community, contests like these help
to solve both problems.
FilmMakers Magazine:
What
influenced you to enter the
American Gem Short Script Competition?
Scott York:
I've always been a
big fan of short films. After going to a screening in Washington D.C.
of the Academy Award nominees in the short category, I decided to see
if there were any script contests for such films.
FilmMakers Magazine: What script would you urge aspiring writers to read and why?
Scott York:
I would recommend
screenplay for Fight Club. It's a great example of how far you can
stretch creativity without ever picking up a camera.
FilmMakers Magazine:
Beside screenwriting what are you
passionate about and why?
Scott York:
I love the
beach. Especially the ones scattered through my home town of San
Diego. I've been land-locked at college for three years now, and ocean
breeze is now a daily fantasy of mine.
FilmMakers Magazine: Who is your favorite Screenwriter
and Why?
Scott York:
I guess
I'd have to say the Coen brothers, although Ernest Lehman and William
Goldman are right up there as well.
FilmMakers Magazine: Name
the director you would love to work with and why?
Scott York:
Tough question there
again, the Coen brothers jump to mind. But Christopher Nolan, Steven
Spielberg, Paul Greengrass, Bryan Singer, and Baz Luhrmann are all
among my favorite directors. I really appreciate any director who can
really bring a fresh, vibrant perspective into screenplay, instead of
simply following a mold set by previous directors or a narrow-minded
reading of the script.
FilmMakers Magazine:
Name the actor you would love to work with and why?
Scott York:
Honestly, Brad Pitt
never fails to impress me with his versatility and brilliant acting.
Especially after seeing his performance in 12 Monkeys, I'm convinced
he can handle any part in any movie. I would really love to write him
into the part of a villain someday.
FilmMakers Magazine:
Any tips and things learned along
the way to pass on to others?
