Interview:

Barry Leach is a Brit who has lived in Istanbul, Turkey, for 14 years. He teaches English at Kadir Has University. He has also acted in several TV commercials, a Turkish film and many English language theater shows. He is now studying for an MA in screenwriting at Bournemouth University, UK.

Is GRIEF FROM MADAME BUTTERFLY your first script? If not, what else have you completed?

This was my fifth feature film script. I’ve also written a sitcom pilot and short scripts for my MA course.

Why did you write GRIEF FROM MADAME BUTTERFLY? And how long did it take you to write it?

I discovered the existence of Cotard’s Syndrome on the internet and thought it would be a wonderful “what if” to have a Cotard’s Syndrome sufferer miss her treatment because she’s on a road trip with a youth.  I think it took me about a month from concept to first rough draft. Since then I’ve received feedback on it and spent a week or ten days at a time on subsequent rewrites.

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

I’m a great believer in planning and I won’t type FADE IN: until I think I have plot, character and theme all mapped out. This might take me a month or two. Then I can put down the first draft in 2-3 weeks.

What inspires you to write?

Other screenplays of mind have also included a psychological element, because I’m interested in the malfunctioning brain as an antagonist.

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

When I’m not reading novels or history books, I spend my time working for my local theater group.

What influenced you to enter the Movie Script Contest?

I was drawn to this contest last year because it gives feedback on entries and feedback is the only way to improvement and then, hopefully, success. Of course, being awarded with an honorable mention last year convinced me to send in another script this year.

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

Very worthwhile. For someone like me who doesn’t live in the US, these contests could prove to be the springboard into the industry. Also, like this contest, some give feedback to help push your script up another level.

Who is your favorite screenwriter or writer and why?

I’d have to plump for Charlie Kaufman or the Nolan brothers for their originality of concept, plot and structure. If I could write a quarter as well as them, I’d be very happy.

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

Do courses, read books, buy screenwriting DVD’s. Then get feedback from a writers’ group. After that, pay money to a consultant for feedback. Then enter screenwriting contests that give feedback and rewrite accordingly. Then enter big contests. Finally, and only after going through these steps, should you think about contacting agents or production companies.

What’s next for you?

I’m seriously considering shooting my romantic comedy which is set in Istanbul. I have experience directing theater shows and I’m studying how to make the transition to movies. I hope I can find the money for the project.