Interview:

In addition to “The Ace of Aces,” Geoff Breuder performed the voice over of President Herbert Hoover in the documentary “Hoover’s Gold.”  

Is THE ACE OF ACES your first script? If not, what else have you completed?

It’s the first script I have fully completed.  I have another in the works and treatments for several others.

Why did you write “The Ace of Aces”?

I loved the story.  The more I learned about these characters, the more I related to them.  What made them heroic was not so much what they did, but who they were.

Since their story has been long forgotten by most folks, I felt it needed to be retold. 

I also have an avid interest in aviation and history.  So, it seemed to be a perfect match with my interests.

How long did it take you to write it?

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. 

To further refine the story in the meantime, I’ve been getting script consultations and invaluable feedback from a number of contests like Movie Script.

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

Yes, I research the topic first.  Then I start outlining both a mini- and full-treatment that incorporates the basic Three Act structure. 

Finally I’ll distill it into twelve 9-10 minute sequences – each with a beginning, middle, and end.  This seems to make the story more manageable, especially the dreaded Second Act.

Once I’ve completed a number drafts (and reached a point where I am reasonably happy with it), I like to get feedback from as many sources as possible – whether it be contests, consultants, friends, or fellow writers. 

I look for the common thread complaints and try to adjust the things that resonate.

What inspires you to write?

I like a good story and enjoy the process of crafting one.

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

My wife, Cara.  And no, she didn’t force me to say that -- this time ;). 

I also enjoy reading, studying history, painting, and aviation in general.

What influenced you to enter the Movie Script Contest?

Movie Script has very positive reviews on Movie Bytes, and the feedback is excellent.

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

Yes.  I like contests primarily because they are a great source for a wide variety of feedback.  Even a judge’s score can help in triangulating problem areas with the script.  While usually not as in depth as a professional consultation, it’s usually far cheaper.

It’s also a good way to garner credibility for the script.

And the prizes are just icing on the cake.

Who is your favorite screenwriter or writer and why?

My favorite produced screenwriters would be Randall Wallace and Robert Rodat.  In particular, I loved the work done on Braveheart, Saving Private Ryan, and The Patriot.

My favorite up and coming screenwriters would be the Langlais Brothers and Jean Hunter.

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

Write about what you feel passionately about. 

Try not to write the whole script all at once, it can be overwhelming.  I realize some writers don’t like outlines or treatments because all they want to do is get straight into the writing, but I feel they are an invaluable tool.  Without it, the story can easily lack focus and wander.

Try and write every day.  Even if you can’t get much done that day, keep the momentum moving forward. 

Don’t be overly concerned with negative comments or criticisms.  In fact, they can be far more valuable than positive praise – if they are understood and addressed.

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. 

Seek out people you know will give your work a balanced, objective review – pointing out both the good and the bad.

Professional consultations and contests are good ways to get that kind of feedback.  

What’s next for you?

I have a treasure trove of story ideas lined up.  I’ve got one in the works and several other treatments sketched out.