LINDSAY MAXOUTOPOULIS
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Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
California

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? 
As someone who is neurodivergent, I struggled with communication growing up. I've always been fascinated by different communication styles and how humans relate to one another. Having experienced the toxicity of gossip firsthand, I wanted to shed light on it in a humorous way. I'm a visual thinker who enjoys filmmaking, which is why I chose to write a script rather than a novel.

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?
I had the idea in my head and saw it visually—like a movie playing. From there, it took about a week to write the actual script and jokes. The hardest part of writing a script for me is the formatting (and grammar), since I’ve never had any formal training. I write everything informally in a Word document, and then work with my script editor, who helps format it properly and cut anything that makes it too long.

What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
Writing isn’t really an ambition for me; it’s more like therapy. A lot of the time, I struggle to verbalize the things I reflect on and think about. I tend to keep things light in conversations, but deep down, I’m constantly processing and pondering. Writing—whether it’s scripts, songs, or poetry—helps me make sense of the world and the people around me. While I’d love to make money as a writer, true success for me lies in slowing down, being still, and allowing my creativity to flow.

Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
The SNL writers inspire me because they come up with great ideas in such a short amount of time.  

What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
I’m not sure I have a single favorite—it really depends on my mood, which spans a wide spectrum. Some of my favorites are The Matrix, Miss Congeniality, Bruce Almighty, Elf, V for Vende;a, and anything that can make me laugh.

What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have? 
Don’t look for external validation because you will never be satisfied. As long as you're proud of yourself, that is all that matters!!

What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
I’m working on another short comedy, as well as some new songs. 

You can follow me on Spotify and listen to my song Puzzle Piece. h=ps://open.spo@fy.com/track/
01jNrMgNQVHuzg4gK4xxAW?si=3fe2debf37f641f2
I hope it inspires people & makes outsiders not feel alone. 

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