Winning Screenplay – SANDSTORM Written by Neil Chase CAST LIST: NARRATOR – Cora Matheson |
SYNOPSIS:
Genre: Action, Thriller
Sandstorm is a disaster film about a single mom and her deadbeat ex who race to save their daughter as a massive sandstorm devastates their hometown.
Get to know the writer:
What is your screenplay about?
Sandstorm is a disaster film about a single mom and her deadbeat ex who race to save their daughter as a massive sandstorm devastates their hometown.
What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Action, thriller.
Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
It’s unlike other disaster films in that it’s written with a smaller budget in mind, and centers around the relationships and dysfunctional family dynamics of our lead characters more than on the spectacle of the devastation. That said, there’s something here for everyone – action, comedy, drama, and most of all, heart.
How would you describe this script in two words?
Fun ride.
What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
Star Wars.
How long have you been working on this screenplay?
The first draft took two weeks. Then a few months more for feedback and rewrites.
How many stories have you written?
I’ve been writing since I was a kid, so it’s hard to say how many short stories there have been. That said, I’ve written thirteen feature screenplays, numerous short screenplays, and my debut novel is about to get published.
What motivated you to write this screenplay?
I always wanted to write a disaster film. So I picked one that I haven’t seen before.
What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
None that I can think of. It was a fun experience from start to finish.
Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
My other passion is acting, which actually helps me to be a better screenwriter, as I’ve learned where to focus in terms of dialogue, action lines, and so on. I try to write the kinds of scripts I would want to read as an actor.
What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
The First Scene Screenplay Festival seemed like a great way to test the waters with this script. I’m grateful for the win.
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*****
Director/Producer: Matthew Toffolo http://www.matthewtoffolo.com
Camera Operator: Kierston Drier
Editor: John Johnson
Casting Director: Sean Ballantyne
![]() Voted #1 TV Contest in North America. |
![]() FULL FEEDBACK on all entries. Get your script performed |
![]() Submit the first stages of your film and get full feedback! |