MICHAEL ELLIOTT
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Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Annapolis, Maryland
 
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?
Believe it or not, I always wanted to do a home invasion story, but I couldn’t come up with an angle. With the massive increases in street crime, the defunding the police movement and the proliferation of ultra-liberal prosecutors (Krasner, Foxx, Mosby, Garcon, Boudin) the story angles, with real-world themes, were right in front of me.
I write scripts because (according to feedback I’ve received) I’m good at characterization, dialogue and action sequences. Still need help on structure.
 
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?
What I entered was Draft #3. I’ve been working on this script on and off for almost 2 years. I have the basic outline in my head and when I’m ready, I sit down and start writing.
 
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
To be a recognized and successful screenwriter.
 
Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
Taylor Sheridan. He’s my #1 inspiration because he now stands like a colossus over both mediums.
 
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
Movie: The Usual Suspects and LA Confidential. TV: Person of Interest and The Old Man.
 
What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
You’ve to grind your way through this. You write and write some more. You have to put the work out there and subject yourself to criticism and disappointment. You must learn from both. You must have a thick skin. Be flexible. Be agreeable. Be coachable.
 
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?0
Therapy Sessions: A female medical resident is stalked by the man who kidnapped and murdered her sister 12 years earlier.
 Cold War Endgame: In 1988 a disgraced CIA analyst prevents the outbreak of WWIII when he thwarts the assassination of Lech Walensa and Pope John Paul II by KGB agents.