Interview:

Geoff Breuder moved from the U.S. to be with his wife in Perth, Western Australia. 
In addition to “The Ace of Aces,” he has performed other work in the film industry.  Geoff performed the voice over of President Herbert Hoover in the documentary “Hoover’s Gold.”   And he was recently cast in the documentary “Pipe Dreams.”

Is “The Ace of Aces” your first script? If not, what else have you completed?

It’s the first script I have been completely happy with.

Why did you write “The Ace of Aces”? And how long did it take you to write it?

I felt it was a story that had been long forgotten and needed to be told.  I also have an avid interest in aviation and history.  So, it seemed to be a perfect match with my interests.

The whole process took about two years.  Since it was based on a true person, over half of that time was devoted just to research.  The more I learned about these characters, the more I related to them.  What makes them heroic was not so much what they did, but who they were.

Describe your process; do you have a set routine, method for writing?

Since the story is a historical bio-pic, the first thing was research and after that…more research.  People like Ken Clark of the 49th Fighter Squadron were of immense help.

My routine for writing is to start with Chris Keane’s story analysis questionnaire.  Based on that, I sketch out a mini-and full-treatment of the story.  I break the story down into the basic three act structure.  Then I distill it further into twelve 9-10 minute sequences – each with a beginning, middle, and end.  This seems to make the story more manageable – especially the second Act.

After several rough drafts I sent the script out for consultation.  I wanted a professional opinion, to see if it was headed on the right course or not.  Chris Keane gave good advice and suggestions.  And director, Franco di Chiera did a fantastic job pointing out the strengths, as well as the areas that needed more work.

Also my wife, Cara, and fellow screenwriters, Gene and Paul Langlais helped me refine it even further. 

What inspires you to write?

Bad movies!  No, really my primary motivation is having a great story that I want to tell. 

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

My wife, Cara (she’d kill me if I didn’t say that).  I enjoy reading, studying history, and aviation in general.

What influenced you to enter the Movie Script Contest?

Movie Script had very positive reviews on Movie Bytes.  They also answered my emails promptly.

Do you feel that screenwriting contests are worthwhile for writers and why?

Yes, I feel contests are a great way to get more feedback and gauge how well your story is crafted.  It's also a good method for garnering credibility and attention for your story.

Contests can also provide valuable opportunities for making more contacts in the industry.

Who is your favorite screenwriter or writer and why?

My favorite produced screenwriter would be Randall Wallace.  In particular, I felt his work on “Braveheart” was magnificent.  He did a great job in evoking emotion.

My favorite up and coming screenwriters would be the Langlais Brothers.  Gene and Paul are very intelligent and funny.  These guys understand how to construct a great story.

Any advice or tips you’d like to pass on to other writers?

I’d write about what you are passionate about.  Try and write every day.  Even if you can't get much done that day, keep the momentum moving forward.  Some writers don't like outlines or treatments, but I feel they are an invaluable tool.

And don’t be afraid of negative comments or criticisms.  In fact, seek out people you know will give your work a balanced review – pointing out both the good and the bad.
Professional consultations and contests are good ways to get that kind of feedback.

If you start hearing the same kind of issues cropping up over and over again – don’t ignore them.  Chances are those are the areas that still need work. 

What’s next for you?

I have several other story ideas lined up.  I like historical epics, but I’m looking to do a contemporary adventure set in Australia.