MovieBytes Interview:
Screenwriter Teresa Lewis

An interview with screenwriter Teresa Lewis regarding the Epiphany Writing Competition.

A: REBIRTH, is an Epic/ Drama, based on a provocative true story that unfolds through the eyes of a womanizing artist. He finds the meaning of love as he fights for a cause that changes his destiny and alters the fate of a nation. Rebirth explodes with the passion of Braveheart, and climaxes with the promise of EverAfter. This awe-inspiring story engages the best in all of us as it explores love , loss and conflict bigger than life, yet explodes in a celebration of a new beginning.

A: The name and reputation of Epiphany said it all, and exemplified the reason I was driven to tell this heart-wrenching story. I wrote Rebirth day and night for months, some nights losing track of time, many nights writing into the wee hours, touched on the shoulder by the sunrise.

In additon, to First at Epiphany, Rebirth also placed as a Finalist in Fall 2004 Write.Movies. com, Semi-Finalist in Moondance and Project Greenlight with an excellent review from Bluecat.

A: Absolutely, Ms. Lauren of Epiphany Scripts: has been the most professional, so far. I received mail and email notification as well as a personal phone call when I became a Finalist and another phone call a letter congratulating me on First Place, along with the $1000 check. The money was a plus, but my fervent desire is to get my script read and into creative hands.

A: Definitely. Sasha Lauren of Epiphany writes: "What could be better than centering a plot on the fight of good vs evil? This script has it all-- from love and romance, to the martyrs and heroes staking their lives on the quest for peace and justice, to the heartbreaking tragedy, death and despair. This historical piece is a big story about a big topic and a movie that should be made. I LOVED IT!" Ms. Lauren also called me to give me pointers on polish and formatting to perfection.

A: Too early to tell, but Ms. Lauren wants to pass the script to very high-profile British classical/Shakespearean actors/directors that she has contact with in England -- perfect for this classic script. Rebirth is a script that, excites and enlightens, and desires a producer/director who seeks a riveting rebirth, much like the title. The word is not out yet that Rebirth is especially written for creative and courageous genius types, actors, directors and producers, who want to make a movie of the same calibre. All American, British and French geniuses-- are welcome to contact me at teresa@discoverydays.com.

A: I have always been a writer, even as a teen, and have also taught creative writing, but it took a story that so touched my heart, to inspire me to write as never before.

A: My sister lives in Camarillo and her son, Brandon Kleyla, is also a screenwriter and budding director at only age 23. He is now in the process his second production, now to direct two of his own creations. He would love to produce Rebirth, if it were a smaller budget. I have no immediate plans to move to CA, although I loved living there as a child.

A: The scribe in me is prolific, as I have several other scripts in progress, three comedies, a Drama and two historical epics in research and early-mid stage. A brilliant writer has also approached me for a possible corroboration. I also love research, freelance editing and video production. At the moment, I am most excited and focused on polishing Rebirth, and in finding the right avenue to bring these A List characters to life on the big screen.

Posted Wednesday, September 7, 2005