In a 1960s rural community, a young girl navigates her coming-of-age only to discover family secrets of mental illness, love, and loss that change the course of her life.

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?
It's a coming-of-age story about a girl trying to find her place in the turbulent 1960s, a time of women's rights, civil rights, and gay rights. But what she sees in herself and what others see in her are at odds, and she must navigate mental illness, loss, and the redemptive power of love to find her true self.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Drama and coming-of-age


3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
The most compelling aspect of this movie is its strong connection to "those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." The story parallels the turbulent '60s with our political climate today, showing us how far we've come and the dangers that await us today if we go back.


4. How would you describe this script in two words?
Tragically honest.




5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
Sleepless in Seattle



6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
It's been in my head for 30 years, but I've only been working on this for a year. I adapted it from my novel that I am currently revising.


7. How many stories have you written?
Too many to count. Three screenplays and over 30 essays.



8. What motivated you to write this screenplay?
As a tribute to my grandparents and a desire to have certain aspects of their lives live on.



9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
When I started, I had a lot of nice stories in search of a plot. I still have that, but I'm getting clearer on my protagonist's goal with each revision.



10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
Traveling, making people laugh, and making a great margarita.



11. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I wanted to put myself out there and see what would happen. The initial feedback was helpful, but I try to keep all feedback in perspective since this is such a subjective business.