Best Scene Reading: DRUNK DRIVING SCENE from the script High School Redemption

Every writer has to market his/her own work and it helps to try different avenues in an effort to get his/her work out there.

– Writer Stephanie Sharp on the WILDsound Screenplay Festival (Review)

Watch the Best Scene from the script High School Redemption:


CAST LIST:

NARRATOR – Becky Shrimpton
DANIEL – LUCAS JAMES
NICOLE – SHAILENE GARNETT
JOHN – ANDREW FARR
DET. PATTERSON – ROB STONE
EMT – DAN CRISTOFORI
APRIL – ANJELICA ALEJANDRO

Q&A with the Writer Stephanie Sharp:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your screenplay about?

Stephanie Sharp: ‘High School Redemption’ (WGA Registered)

After his arrogance leads to a DUI accident in which his wife and four others lose their lives, Daniel is visited by an angel who sends him back through time to his high school days for a second chance at life and in doing so, gives Daniel the opportunity to save Nicole’s life via an ultimate sacrifice. This ‘divine’ offer is due mainly in part to Nicole’s repeated prayer requests for Daniel and the uplifting of his heavy heart. Can Daniel change things, or is his “redo” destined to end the same as his first? Daniel’s decision becomes evident through the redemption and heart-breaking sacrifice he portrays in the story and the decision he makes to save Nicole’s life. This premise of the story basically highlights the strong points in the script outlining the concept of this inspirational, faith-based, fantasy film.

**The official ‘Movie Script Video Pitch’ as well as top-rated script reviews can be accessed via the following website at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jX2cmlo-IeE&feature=youtu.be&hd=1 as well as a table read (via professional actors) of the infamous ‘drunk-driving scene’ (that ultimately takes Nicole’s life) via the following website at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_kEHUytLzA. The actual script itself can be accessed via http://www.screenwritershowcase.com/scripts/s724.pdf for a full review as well as a view of the promotional movie poster at https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1639089772983164&l=b6a708a7e4.

Official Logline:
In exchange for a devastating sacrifice, an abusive alcoholic (killing his wife in a drunk-driving accident) receives a divine offer to relive his high school days in order to bring her back.

MT: Why should this script be made into a movie?

SS: Given the films currently being released by Hollywood, there is a strong need for more uplifting and inspirational films that speak to the heart. There is a generally broad audience for this particular genre so when a script that truly speaks to the heart presents itself, it would be wise for people to take notice. There is also a message within the depth of the story that addresses bullying and it’s affect on our family, friends and society as a whole. We should never pass up the opportunity to have our lives touched and our spirits heightened, be it through visuals, literates or our own lives.

Official Script Reviews:
“This is one of the better single-location scripts I’ve seen, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it actually got made somewhere down the road.” — Lynne Pembroke Professional Screenplay Coverage (Coverscript.com)
“I think this story is an excellent idea. I particularly liked ‘Love and Let Die’ as a recurring theme. The idea of emotional sacrifice for others is very profound and important for everyone to learn, especially the young. I would love to see this play.”
— The Talentville Town Council
“This was a great story of sacrifice and redemption.” — **** Jonathan McCorvey (Screenwriter)
“The possible making of a strong film.” — LS (Critique Section of Writer’s Literary Services)
“A good marketable story line.” — Sam Sherman (Script Editor)
“A script that is fittingly concise, ensuring that it is a fast read with a great surprising (yet unexpected ending) and that explores big thems meant for movies with fascinating ‘what if’ questions.” — 2014 Sunscreen Film Festival Coverage

MT: How long have you been writing stories?

SS: I have been writing stories for pretty much as long as I can remember. I currently have several manuscripts that have publishing options available as well as a total of 3 additional full-feature scripts and one short.

MT: What movie have you seen the most in your life?

SS: I am a sucker for 80’s suburbia type movies, such as Goonies (for example). I have seen Goonies several dozen times and refer to it as one of my all-time favorites.

MT: What artists would you love to work with?

SS: Ironically, I see more of a potential need for new up-and-coming artists, actors, etc. who are trying to make their stand in the world of entertainment and I stand firm in the possibility of giving these individuals a chance to stake their claim in this world of uncertainty as they are given a chance to play out roles of endearment, love and positivity.

MT: How many stories/screenplays have you written?

SS: I have written a total of 4 full-feature scripts and one short.

MT: Ideally, where would you like to be in 5 years?

SS: I would love to have at least one of my scripts (particularly this one, ‘High School Redemption’) optioned/produced and be under management with an agent to further along the success of my additional literary works of art.

MT: Describe your process; do you have a set routine, method for writing?

SS: I make it a habit to use each evening, after returning home from a full-time administrative position, to write at least 1-2 hours prior to bedtime.

MT: Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

SS: I am very passionate about vintage black and white stock photography. I have personally designed a website (via an on-line store) called ‘Memories and Beyond (Vintage Stock Photography) which can be accessed via the net at http://memoriesandbeyond.com/.

MT: Any advice or tips you’d like to pass on to other writers?

SS: Never give up. I think that making it in Hollywood is a possibility. I don’t believe that there are a line of soldiers protecting the boundaries of the entertainment industry, allowing only those well-known names to enter. Everyone is always looking for a good, well-written story to capture the heart of the audience. My belief is that if you have a great story that needs (and should) be told, as soon as that right agent or producer takes the time to review the full script, that eagle might very well fly.