Interview:

David Sabbath, Columbus, Ohio - director and owner of Three Dog Films.

I am a storyteller.

Whether it is thirty seconds or thirty minutes, whether it's a model selling clothing or an artist speaking on the love of his craft, behind everyone and everything lays a good story. The trick, and the beauty of it all, is telling it in a very short time.

I began filming and cutting documentaries for PBS, as well as several independent networks. He learned how to direct people, both real and hired, always looking for that special charm or look that we all bring to life.

I moved on to commercials because the challenge of moving someone to act, scream or be inspired by thirty seconds.

I concentrate on images as part of story, one always leading to the next, and building a collective whole. I love images but realize that content or even sometimes the lack of words, are an equal part of the equation.

I am a great observer, able to think quickly of my feet, size up the situation and make it come to life, both in production and in edit. I often sit in coffee shops watching and listening to people communicate to each other, both verbally and visually.

I am a director and a writer, always passionate about life, my work, and the people around me. Every second counts. Every moment matters and every thirty seconds can make a difference.

That's why I am a storyteller.


Is “HOPE'S NOCTURNAL” your first script? If not, what else have you completed?

Hope’s Nocturnal is my fifth script. I have written eight scripts.

I have been a finalist or top three for additional scripts. The following seven scripts have been recognized in other festivals.

The Man Who Murdered Love
53 Hours in Harpers Ferry
Thus Quoth the Raven
God Don’t Make the Laws
Chameleons
Secrecy, Blood and Betrayal
Lemmings

Why did you write "HOPE'S NOCTURNAL? And how long did it take you to write it?

I wrote Hope’s Nocturnal because of change. All my scripts are personal to some extent and I believe that every five years we become a different person, due to life’s rewards, obstacles and changes. Hope’s Nocturnal is no different and it was written in three months.

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

My process for writing is very simple. The story begins in my head and it may live there for several months. Then, I bring it to life on paper always writing the beginning and end. The middle goes very fast.

What inspires you to write?

My life inspires me to write.

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

Apart from writing, I’m very active physically. I work out quite a bit. Obviously, I watch a lot of movies. My business keeps me very busy and I love directing commercials.

What influenced you to enter the Movie Script Contest?

I entered the The Golden Brads because I was aware that it was a very recognized contest.

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

At the very least, I think writing contests are important because it gives a writer a good idea about his or her work – whether or not other people find it interesting. At the very best, and I’m hopeful, the recognition could land agent representation.

Who is your favorite screenwriter or writer and why?

My favorite writer is William Goldman.

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

My advice for other writers is don’t give up!

What’s next for you?

Next for me is to find an agent. I’ll keep directing commercials because it’s my livelihood. And, I’m halfway in the funding process for God Don’t Make the Laws and seeking additional funding so I can make and direct first feature.