Screenwriter Interviews
MovieBytes Interview:
Screenwriter Kevin Leonard
An interview with screenwriter Kevin Leonard regarding the Monterey Writing Competition.
Q: What's the title of the script you entered in this contest, and what's it about?A: "Rickenbacker" is the incredible true story of Eddie Rickenbacker, pioneer race driver, WWI Ace of Aces, and emissary for the War Department in WWII. He was lost at sea with 7 other men for 24 days while on assignment. His knack for cheating death was legendary, but his story is largely forgotten.
Q: What made you enter this particular contest? Have you entered any other contests with this script? If so, how did you do?A: It was recommended to me by a friend. "Rickenbacker" was also a finalist in the 2007 FilmMakers International Screenwriting competition and the 2007 Screenwriting Expo Screenplay Competition.
Q: Were you satisfied with the adminstration of the contest? Did they meet their deadlines? Did you receive all the awards that were promised?A: Yes. They were extremely helpful, especially for a first-time screenwriter like myself.
Q: Were you given any feedback on your script? If so, did you find the feedback helpful?A: No, not from the contest.
Q: Has your success in this contest helped you market your script? Were you contacted by any agents, managers or producers?A: My script was optioned by producer Jeff Fortin, of Nestech Management Group Inc., the executive sponsor of the competition.
Q: What's your background? Have you written any other screenplays or television scripts?A: I have been a writer and historical researcher for 30 years, but this was my first screenplay. I'm also a high school football coach. I intend to pursue screenwriting full-time. There are so many true stories from American history that there is no shortage of ideas for me to pursue for scripts.
Q: Do you live in Los Angeles? If not, do you have any plans to move there?A: No, I live in Maryland. I can't say where this will take me, but I'm open to all options.
Q: What's next? Are you working on a new script?A: Yes, I'm doing research now for my next script. It takes place in New York City in 1911.
Posted Thursday, March 27, 2008
