Interview:

I'm a former commodities floor broker who decided to leave a lucrative career to pursue a career in film writing and directing. Yes, my parents thought I was crazy. I've had some luck - my scripts have won or placed in 41 major screenplay contests for 91 awards and my films have won 5 awards and screened numerous festivals - so I keep pushing forward. Please take a look at my website: www.neuroticboyproductions.com if you have a chance. Thanks.

Is “THE WAY IT SPINS” your first script? If not, what else have you completed?

"The Way It Spins" was my 11th script (all solo), but I have written 3 more since then with collaborator John Barlowe. Though you couldn't pay me to show you my first few scripts. "The Way It Spins" is my 2nd urban drama. The others are in a variety of genres from romantic comedy to family adventure to drama.

Why did you write "THE WAY IT SPINS? And how long did it take you to write it?

I had attempted to write a version of this script last year, but I made some wrong turns. I came back to it this year and started from scratch, just keeping the theme/concept that I had interested me to begin with. It took around a month from outlining to finishing the first draft, though I did a few rewrites later based on notes.

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

I've written so many scripts now that I have my process and know what works for me so I just stick with it. I'm a huge believer in outlining - I think it really helps me to turn out a decent first draft in a short amount of time. I spend more time working on my 8 page outline than writing the first draft because all the hard work is already done.

What inspires you to write?

I just love telling stories and I'm interested in what people will do in certain situations.

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

Movies of course. I love going to film festivals. I also love music, poker, tennis, traveling and spending time with my friends and family.

What influenced you to enter the Movie Script Contest?

I had a Finalist and 2 Semifinalists last year and had entered then because I heard good things from others.

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

Yes - they are a gauge for your writing, boost confidence and help with connections. The better contests really help you get your script out there. My placements helped me to get my agent to read my script and she signed me. But there is so much more to getting a script sold and many contests that aren't worthwhile so writers can't expect it to be a magic bullet.

Who is your favorite screenwriter or writer and why?

It changes all the time, but I love well written scripts in all genres

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

Everyone keeps telling me it's about persistence and luck, so I keep writing and trying to get my scripts out there. That seems to be the best advice.

What’s next for you?

I've just finished both a family Christmas script and a broad comedy with my collaborator John Barlowe and we're trying to get those out there. Now we're working on a family adventure script (several drafts in) and a family fantasy script (outlining) together.