Karla Bryant
​

 Picture
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Currently back in my birth state of Wisconsin. I also lived in Philadelphia for 20 years and Kentucky for 15 years.
 
 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 honored to have two scripts recognized by the Santa Barbara International Screenplay Awards in February: Semi-Finalist “Not My Secret to Tell” and Quarter-Finalist “Havana in the Snow”.
“Not My Secret to Tell” contains a retelling of a trauma I experienced decades ago, and it was cathartic to write a narrative script around it. In contrast, “Havana in the Snow” is a playful romance that’s a much lighter story about taking chances later in life.
I initially wrote “Not My Secret to Tell” as a short story and was later asked to adapt it as a script. “Havana in the Snow” was first written as part of a 48 Hour Challenge, and I later revised and expanded the script.
 
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?
There was a huge difference between the two scripts! Since “Not My Secret to Tell” also dealt with my working through a past trauma, I’d say it was about 3 years before I considered it complete. “Havana in the Snow” was part of a 48 Hour Challenge, and I completed the 1st and 2nd drafts within 12 hours.
I have a rough outline in my mind before starting a script. But I rarely begin writing before I absolutely know what the title will be. The title then serves as my lighthouse, guiding me back to the core concept if I start to drift. Which invariably happens.
 
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
I’d ideally continue writing scripts with middle-aged characters as the leads. People over 40 have such layered experiences that they lend themselves to rich stories with depth. It would be wonderful to see older actresses and actors have strong roles rather be relegated to playing support roles as generic parents or grandparents. This is particularly the case with older actresses. As to an ultimate ambition, it would be to have several feature scripts produced.

Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
​The first names that come to mind are Richard Curtis for film and Terence Winter for television. I always go through a full range of emotions watching anything written by Richard Curtis, and I think About Time was so underrated. I recommend it to everyone.