Sandra Bolton
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Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Marstons Mills, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
 
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?
Life experiences! Every one is dealing with something. Life is full of failure, obstacles, heartache, love, hope and redemption. We all have things to deal with that require perseverance. It is how we deal with ups and downs that makes the difference.
However, I did not plan on writing a screenplay it just happened. I attended The Writers Conferences and Screenwriters Group of Cape Cod and was inspired to write screenplays. During those years I also authored a coffee-table book and a manuscript for a novella adapted from one of my original screenplays.
 
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?
The first script I wrote prior to seeking professional education took ten years and is sitting on a shelf collecting dust. I was self-taught via visiting my local library and taking out books on screenwriting. I had a story (life experience) that I thought would make a good film. Probably, would make a good story if I was not writing it at the time. Meanwhile, I honed the craft and have scripts that have finalist status in nationwide screenwriting competitions.
My tools of the trade are a story, the right story, that will inspire, educate, comfort, and show what people go through in their lives that are relatable and will resonate with the audience. Then I get the yellow lined pads of paper, pens, start writing a plot plan. A list of characters and I am off and writing.  My best time for writing is between 5:00am -8:30 every morning.
 
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
Option a screenplay that entertains with a message that touches the heart and soul of the viewer with an uplifting ending of the film that will prompt hunger to see more of the characters. Most importantly, look at life with a positive attitude.

Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
Nora Ephron, Jane Campion, Tina Fey, Clint Eastwood, Robert Redford
 
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
My Cousin Vinny
 
What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
Keep educated on the writing process and keep writing and rewriting.
 
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
A comedy sensation about senior citizens that is presently a short script that is a perfect pilot for a TV series titled We Are Not Dead Yet.

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