Interview:

My name is Ricardo Mancebo.  I received my Ph.D. in Biology from Columbia University, and was a postdoctoral scientist at Yale University and Stanford University in the biological sciences.  I currently work in the Product Marketing group at a biotech company in the San Francisco Bay Area in California. 

My writing experience includes several writing projects directed at the motion picture and television industries, and publishing a book titled, “Tell Me, How Do You Win The Lottery?”  I maintain an active interest in bridging scientific principles with daily living, with the goal of inspiring others and enriching our daily experiences.

Is “Missing Link” your first script? If not, what else have you completed?

Missing Link is the first short script I have written.  Prior to this, I wrote two feature-length screenplays—a drama and a romantic comedy.  I have also recently written a short thriller screenplay.

Why did you write “Missing Link”? And how long did it take you to write it?

I wrote Missing Link as a Mother’s Day gift for my wife.  My son, who is nine years old, also worked on this project by coming up with the ending to the story.  The question I was trying to address in the story is, “What can a mother give to her child that a father could never give, even if she were not part of her child’s life?”  The answer I came up with in the story is that there is a connection—a bond—between a mother and her child that transcends time, distance, and culture.

The actual writing of the first draft took about two weeks, while the revisions took an additional few weeks.

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

A story typically starts with an idea, which becomes further detailed and defined while I am engaged in other activities.  As story elements build on a central idea, I capture these on paper or in a screenwriting program as unformatted content, while trying to maintain the original concept.  I then sit down to write the script by segmenting the content into story units, which are fleshed out by adding dialog and formatting. 

I try to write during the weekdays late at night when everyone else is asleep so that I do not disrupt my time with my family.

What inspires you to write?

I am inspired by the need to express ideas and feelings about observations in life, using the screenplay medium as a channel to input conflict and emotions, and to output a provocative a story with a distinct view on life.

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

I am passionate about structuring my life to spend more time with my family, to pursue philanthropic endeavors, and to run more.

What influenced you to enter the Movie Script Contest?

I entered the Movie Script Contest after learning that feedback is provided on all scripts.  The feedback I have received to date from the reviews has been invaluable, and has helped move my writing projects to the next level by offering starting points and tips to enhance my writing.

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

I do feel screenwriting contests are worthwhile, as these can be great inducements for completing a screenplay by a specific timeline.  Contests can also be a forum where helpful feedback is offered to enhance scripts.

Who is your favorite screenwriter or writer and why?

Although I do not have one specific favorite screenwriter, I have been particularly struck by Mr. Francis Ford Coppola’s work.  His ability to create a complex cast of characters, with in depth insight into each of their core beings, resonates off the page.

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

Each person has their own set of experiences and a unique voice to bring to a story.  Screenwriting provides a great opportunity to bring out your voice, and to funnel your passion into a unique story.

What’s next for you?

I am currently working on a full-length suspense/thriller screenplay involving psychic phenomena.