THOMAS GRAY

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What inspired you to write a script rather than a novel or short story?
I’ve always been fascinated by the science behind screenwriting — the structure, the “rules” and how a script ultimately transports an audience into a fully realized motion picture. There’s something powerful about writing with the intention of seeing it come alive on the screen.

Was there a specific film, TV show, or personal moment that first made you say, “I want to write like that”?
A: Not a specific project, but I’m drawn to films that stay with you — stories that linger in your mind for days — the ones that “haunt you” and keep your mind spinning. How they were constructed, why they worked — and why you can’t shake them after the credits roll.

What’s your writing routine like? Do you follow a strict schedule, or are you more intuitive about when and how you write?
I don’t follow a set writing routine. Inspiration and scenes seem to show up when I’m not looking for them — playing golf, running errands, and even driving my car. Ironically, it rarely hits when I’m at my desk, in front of my laptop.

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?
I start with a rough structural outline – Ordinary World, Inciting Incident, Break into 2, Escalation beats. From there, I brainstorm dozens of potential scenes — and then the real fun begins — writing and discovering the story as it unfolds.

How do you handle writer’s block or those inevitable moments of self-doubt?
Well, I step away. I’ll hit some golf balls at the driving range. Walk my dog. Watch a movie. Many times, the solution reveals itself when I’m not forcing it. The break becomes part of the process — part of the solution.

What tools—software, methods, rituals—do you consider essential to your writing workflow?
Final Draft is my go-to software — and of course, old-school colored index cards! There’s still something valuable about physically moving story beats around.

Do you write with production realities in mind, or do you let the creative vision lead first and adjust later?
Yes, absolutely. You can write a brilliant script, but if it’s not financially viable, it will never get made. I try to balance creative ambition with practical awareness.

When a scene isn’t working, what’s your go-to strategy for fixing it? Rewrite, workshop,walk away—or something else?
The first thing I do is ask myself… “Does that scene even need to exist?” Many times, the answer is no — and cutting it improves the script immediately.

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’ve completed two screenplays, and currently about 75% through a third. That project paused when I developed a new direction for my current script — 9-Iron.
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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?
I am a FINALIST with Santa Barbara International Screenplay Awards. Their feedback was incredibly valuable — professional, insightful, and instrumental in elevating my script to the next level.

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?
Mostly screenplay contests up to now. I am with a professional writers’ group, and we share feedback, strategies, and industry insights.

Have you pitched to producers or taken meetings yet? What have those experiences taught you about the business side of screenwriting?
I’ve pitched informally to “industry” friends and received helpful feedback. I’m actively working toward formal meetings. What I’ve learned so far is simple: the business side of screenwriting is just as challenging as the creative side.

What do you see as your greatest strengths as a writer? Your greatest weaknesses?
Strengths? I have a vivid imagination that translates well onto the page. Weakness? Two kittens that seem determined to interrupt every writing session!

How do you balance your writing with your “day job”?
I recently sold my successful financial business, which allows me to focus on writing full time — a major shift that I’m fully committed to.

What message or emotional response do you hope audiences walk away with after experiencing your work?
I want them to feel the same way I do after seeing a great film — something that stays with them, something they continue thinking about long after it’s over.

What are you working on right now the world needs to know about?
I’m about 75% finished with an AI Thriller. Yes, I know it’s a crowded space. But I believe this story is unique enough to break through and get noticed.

Where do you see yourself five years from now as a screenwriter—and how do you plan to get to that place?
With several polished and sold screenplays — and hopefully a few produced projects. That’s the goal and I’m building toward it every day.

What advice would you give to any aspiring writer hoping to follow in your footsteps?
First — get the knowledge, the classes, the books, the videos. Learn from the pros and keep at it. Next: hire a great screenwriting coach! You must do this! When you get notes, don’t defend your script — improve it. Now, keep re-writing, and re-writing, and re-writing — that’s where great writing actually happens.