Vicki-Ann Bush
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Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Henderson, Nevada
 
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?
The script is based on my novel series, Alex McKenna, which is a character close to my heart. Alex is a 17 year old transgender boy with paranormal gifts.
 
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?
It’s a short, so it took me a couple of days and then about a week of edits. I start with FADE IN.
 
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
Specifically with the Alex McKenna series, to broaden minds, give transgender youth a character they can relate to and also get swept up into the fantasy of his world. Alex is Alex, and I wish that for all of the transgender and LGBTQ community.
 
Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
Since I write primarily paranormal, I’ve been in awe of M. Knight Shyamalan since I saw The Sixth Sense. His story telling is very different than most of the other A list writers, directors…I feel he goes deeper with the characters.
 
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
That’s a tough one. I have many for different reasons. But if I had to pick one, Arsenic and Old Lace. Which is funny because it’s definitely not paranormal. I love the simplicity of the set, all the moving parts that are chaotic and yet they all come together in a beautiful compilation of insanity.
 
What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
First and most obvious, make your script the best possible version it can be. Like being an author, polish and flow with solid characters the audience is drawn to, is a must. I’m all about dialogue. Make sure their voice is true to who they are. As for the contests, my dad used to say, “If you throw enough things against the wall eventually something will stick.” Don’t be afraid to submit to several festivals, just make sure you research and choose the ones that will fit your work.
 
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
We’re in the process of casting for the film version of Alex & Margaret’s Beginning. We’re set to film in November, and our Director, Eric Velarde, joined the production yesterday, so I’m so excited to see things come together.
In my novel world, I’m working on a new Young Adult Paranormal, A Witch’s Love, and the final Alex McKenna book, Death Is Not The Beginning, is set to release this September.

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