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I knew I
wanted to be a screenwriter.......
You know what, I'm
not sure if I ever made a conscious decision to 'be a writer.' I just
know that I've always created various scenarios in my head for as long
as I can remember. I just recently began writing them down in a
structured form.
I know I've
succeeded.......
when--trick question! I'm
always learning, man. I don't know that I'll ever be satisfied.
My inspiration
to write INNOCENT WHEN YOU DREAM.......
is a Tom Waits song
by the same name.
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FilmMakers
Magazine:
What inspired you to write?
Matt Stasi: Well, honestly, I figured I spent enough time criticizing other
people's writing that I had better at least put my money where my
mouth was.... Everybody's a critic, right?
FilmMakers Magazine: How did you prepare yourself to
write your first script?
Matt Stasi:
Character bios were very helpful. And, of course OUTLINE--then be willing
to stray from that outline when your instincts tell you to do so.
FilmMakers
Magazine:
Is this your first script and how long did it take you to write
INNOCENT WHEN YOU DREAM?
Matt Stasi:
This is my first script. It took me several months to write, most of
which I spent simply preparing.
FilmMakers
Magazine:
Do you have a set routine, place and time management for writing?
Matt Stasi:
FilmMakers Magazine: Do you believe screenplay contests
are important for aspiring screenwriters and why?
Matt Stasi:
I believe screenplay contests are important because if
nothing else it's a real boost to have someone recognize your work.
Plus, it's a real help when your trying to get people to read your
material if you can say that it's doing well in a competition.
FilmMakers Magazine: What influenced you to enter the
American Gem Short Script Competition?
Matt Stasi:
I found the American Gem Short Screenplay Competition
through the internet. After countless hours researching the best
competitions for my needs this proved to be one of the tops.
FilmMakers
Magazine:
What script would you urge aspiring writers to read and why?
Matt Stasi:
I would urge screenwriters to read any and all scripts
they can get their hands on. Whether it's good or bad, you can always
learn something--even if it's only 'what not to do...' And, while
you're at it, read CHINATOWN---I hear that's a pretty good one!!!
FilmMakers
Magazine:
Beside screenwriting what are you passionate about and why?
Matt Stasi:
Along with screenwriting I'm also passionate about my dog Floyd.
Without fail, he puts a smile on my face after a long, arduous day at
work--thanks Floyd!
FilmMakers
Magazine:
Who is your favorite Screenwriter and Why?
Matt Stasi:
way too many to limit it to just one!!!
FilmMakers
Magazine:
Name the director you would love to work with and why?
Matt Stasi:
The director I would love to work with is Martin Scorsese. His
knowledge of filmmaking is so thorough it's actually daunting. It'd be
great sponging up any and all experience he'd share.
FilmMakers
Magazine:
Name the actor you would love to work with and why?
Matt Stasi: I would love to work with Robert Duvall--No explanation needed...the
man's good.
FilmMakers
Magazine:
Any tips and things learned along the way to pass on to others?
Matt Stasi:
Tips...? Yeah...They weren't kidding when they said to be prepared to
REWRITE!
FilmMakers
Magazine:
What's next for you?
Matt Stasi:
FilmMakers Magazine: Where will you be five years from
now?
Matt Stasi: |
