Short Screenplay – STRANGER by Jason Smith

Watch the July 2016 Winning 1pg. Short Screenplay 

STRANGER by Jason Smith

CAST LIST:

NARRATOR – Sean Kaufmann
SARAH – Elizabeth Rose Morriss
STRANGER – Neil Bennett

Get to know the winning writer Jason Smith:

1. What is your screenplay about?

The screenplay’s about a young woman who wakes up in the passenger seat of an old man’s car as the stranger drives. Fearing for her safety, she takes the first opportunity to flee. As the stranger pursues and her cries for help fall on deaf ears, she catches a glimpse of her reflection in a shop window and the old woman who looks back reveals the more tragic truth… her dementia is worsening, her husband and even her own reflection are becoming strangers.

2. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

I believe this screenplay packs a big punch for a one-page script and helps raise awareness and understanding of a tragic health condition that can effect anyone.

3. How would you describe this script in two words?

effectively poignant

4. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

Lord of the Rings – The Two Towers

5. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

1 day

6. How many stories have you written?

A handful of short shorts, a 30 page psychological horror and nearing completion of my first feature (a period drama)

7. What motivated you to write this screenplay?

My partner has recently begun work as a carer for dementia sufferers but the main motivation has been seeing my own grandmother’s dementia worsen and the effect that has had on the entire family.

8. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

No matter how small the idea, it is always difficult to condense it into a 1 page screenplay. To be able to build character, give the story progression and portray an idea in such a small amount of time was a real obstacle.

9. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

I am an avid cinema-goer, with a passion for film. I thoroughly enjoy studying history and in my spare time I have passion for football (soccer), snooker and pool.

10. Any advice or tips you’d like to pass on to other writers?

Always write about topics that interest you but don’t underestimate the value of writing something in a genre you dislike, the result can be something truly unique. For example, if you dislike horror, try writing a horror which would appeal to you! At best you’ve created a new sub-genre that stands out from the crowd… at worst you’ve added experience and new weapons to your writing armoury. You WILL feel the benefit!

 

*****

Director/Producer: Matthew Toffolo http://www.matthewtoffolo.com

Editor: John Johnson

Casting Director: Sean Ballantyne