SANDRA BOLTON
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SANDRA BOLTON

What inspired you to write a script rather than a novel or short story?
I love movies. Since I was a child the storyline(s) in my favorite films hit a chord in my soul. As an older adult screenwriting came to me, tapped me on the shoulder and repeated write a screenplay.

Was there a specific film, TV show, or personal moment that first made you say, “I want to write like that”?
Watching the Academy Awards in mid 1990’s made me think “I am going to write a screenplay.”

What’s your writing routine like? Do you follow a strict schedule, or are you more intuitive about when and how you write?
When the spirit moves me. I always have thoughts rolling around in my brain, suddenly, a concept pops and I start making notes on paper and graduate to the yellow lined pad create, develop and write many loglines.
  
When you're starting a new script, how do you shape your ideas? Do you use outlines, beat sheets, or dive right into scenes? What inspires your scripts? Characters? Plot? Theme? Action?
My ideas are shaped by life experiences. When I have a logline that hits the “nail on the head” I start the creating scenes and characters. Generally, story driven with compelling character’s.

How do you handle writer’s block or those inevitable moments of self-doubt?
Restless nights, however, never self -doubt. When I have a script in the works I believe in it and need to complete it. Often, lots of changes and edits and a few drafts until I am satisfied .

What tools—software, methods, rituals—do you consider essential to your writing workflow?
I need to hand write from scribbles to notes to yellow lined pad. When it is Act one ready I use Movie Magic Screenwriter on computer.

Do you write with production realities in mind, or do you let the creative vision lead first and adjust later?
Creative visual takes me by the hand. I pick up the pen and put that visual into words.
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When a scene isn’t working, what’s your go-to strategy for fixing it? Rewrite, workshop, walk away—or something else?
Write, rewrite, rewrite and rewrite until it pops.

How many scripts have you completed? How many have you started and not completed (we all have those)...and why are they still unfinished?
I have completed five full length scripts and six short scripts. The first script I wrote 25 years ago is sitting on a shelf collecting dust. Mid way through the process I lost interest.
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Have you earned recognition in this or other competitions? What’s your strategy when submitting your scripts, and how has contest feedback shaped your work?
My full length scripts have reached Finalist status and Nomination Spotlight recognition in screenplay competitions nationally and locally. Contest feedback is instrumental in looking at your scripts with a different perspective.

Have you done anything at this point to promote yourself or your writing (besides entering online contests)? If so, how would you gauge the effectiveness of those efforts?
Query letters. No response as of late.

Have you pitched to producers or taken meetings yet? What have those experiences taught you about the business side of screenwriting?
No pitches or meetings. I do not want pitches or meetings. I want to option. I do not have time to waste.

What do you see as your greatest strengths as a writer? Your greatest weaknesses?
Entertaining, inspiring and comforting.

How do you balance your writing with your “day job”?
I am on the cusp of eighty-five years old. Nothing to balance except me!

What message or emotional response do you hope audiences walk away with after experiencing your work?
Do what you love as long as you can and never give up. There is always hope.

What are you working on right now the world needs to know about?
Updating my website. screenwritersandra.com My screenplays are relatable storylines with compelling characters that show
love, redemption, jealousy, hate, family, and faith. Available for option that will adapt to TV series.
My latest script Second Time Around is a short script that proves what is meant to be will be!

Where do you see yourself five years from now as a screenwriter—and how do you plan to get to that place?
Five years from now either pushing up daisies or still waiting for an option!

What advice would you give to any aspiring writer hoping to follow in your footsteps?
Make your own path. Recognize your talent. Keep the faith. Never give up on yourself.