FRANCES PRESLEY RICE
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Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Sarasota, Florida

Your script stood out among hundreds of others. What was the inspiration for your story and why did you write a script instead of a short story or a novel?
I was intrigued by the news story about the March 18, 1990 art theft from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum from which 13 pieces, collectively worth $300 million, were stolen by thieves, making it the largest theft of any private property in world history. I was inspired to write a script, instead of a short story or novel, when I learned about the movie featuring an unlikely World War II platoon tasked with rescuing art masterpieces from German thieves and returning them to their owners.

How long did it take you to write your script...and what is your writing process? Do you outline...use index cards...white board...or just start with FADE IN?
It took me a year to write the script and my writing process begins with an outline that includes character profiles.

What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
My quest as a writer is to create scripts that are produced into movies that entertain and inspire audiences.

Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
I am inspired by Shonda Rhimes due to her being a prolific writer, and executive producer.

What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
My all-time favorite television show is Grey's Anatomy.

What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
My advice for writers hoping to place as a finalist or win a contest is to obtain quality feedback and be open to re-writing your scripts, while remaining true to your story's vision.

What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?

I am working on an action/adventure script featuring a black female heroine and an all-black cast as a way to provide acting opportunities and inspiration for people of color, like me.

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