"Squaresville" Star Kylie Sparks

After getting her start in community theater in her native Tulsa, OK, Kylie Sparks' professional debut came at 16 when she in starred in the IFC Films and InDigEnt feature "Pizza," alongside Ethan Embry ("Sweet Home Alabama," "That Thing You Do!," Showtime's "Brotherhood"), Julie Hagerty ("Airplane!"), Judah Friedlander ("30Rock") and Miriam Shor ("Hedwig and the Angry Inch"), among many others. ...After making the rounds on the festival circuit, including the world premiere in competition at the Los Angeles Film Festival, IFC Films released "Pizza" in theatres, on DVD, and is now available on iTunes and Netflix Instant.

After "Pizza," Kylie recurred on "Complete Savages" and "Desperate Housewives," as well as guest starred on "Melissa & Joey," "Bones," "ER," "Greek," "Traffic Light," and "Campus Ladies," and is currently starring on the upcoming webseries "Squaresville." Kylie also recently performed as part of an all-star ensemble in the Outfest Screenwriters Lab Readings selection "GBF" directed by Darren Stein ("Jawbreaker").

Kylie graduated high school at 16 and after studying French and Music, she graduated from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with a Musical Theatre emphasis. She is also an alumna of the acclaimed 'Broadway bootcamp,' Broadway Theatre Project in Tampa, FL

In her downtime, Kylie enjoys singing, music, writing, travelling, exploring Los Angeles with friends, and relaxing with her two dogs Daphne and Gemma. Her birthday is January 27.

 

What is the current project you are working on?

I'm currently in the middle of production on season one of  "Squaresville" at the moment!

How is doing a webseries different & similar from doing a TV show or film?

It's really not all that different.  The pace is faster than most things I've done (shooting 6 episodes with a few minisodes in 6 days is a lot!) and we have a smaller crew than many productions, but it's the same idea.  I actually like the faster pace because it makes me stay focused on what needs to get done!

What are the similarities and differences between you and your "Squaresville" character?

Esther and I both have a very sarcastic sense of humor and we're both pretty loud, but I'd like to think I'm a little more bubbly and outgoing than how Esther is, and Esther definitely has her own way of handling conflict and crazy situations!

How do you define success?

I think success is subjective-you can make all the money in the world and be famous but if you're not happy at what you do and how you live life, then you aren't successful.  Success really is about how you feel in your life, and I think it always changes based on your goals and desires.

How do you handle rejection?

Laugh.  There will always be haters and people who talk about you and how you may not be pretty enough, tall enough, thin enough, etc., but it's all really silly, so I try and have a good time regardless if it's going to go my way or not.  I have some great friends who have my back and two awesome dogs and my kickass mom who has always supported me in everything I've done, and I can count on them to be there for me!

Did you always want to be an actress?

Actually, I didn't really know I wanted to be an actor until I was about 13 and I started coming out to Los Angeles.  I wanted to be a doctor, an Olympic swimmer, or a meteorologist (or all three....), but I was always in musicals and took dance, voice, and acting lessons outside of school, so when I finally came out to LA to audition for movies and TV, I realized this was the only thing I could do.

 What inspired you to become an actress?

We have this thing in the second grade at the school I went to in Tulsa called the Fairy Tale Tea, where it's basically a bunch of fairy tales put on as little one-act plays.   I was cast as the Wicked Queen in an adaptation of Snow White, and I loved it.  I knew that I wanted to do something like that, but even after getting cast in community theatre roles, it was the idea of something bigger than made me want to be a professional actor.

 What is the best thing about being one?

The fact that you get to step in someone else's shoes for a little bit.  It solves a bit of the mystery behind how people act and behave around others.  Also you get to meet some really awesome people and create a really lovely network of co-workers and friends.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Being compared to other actors in my type.  I don't really want to be anyone else, I just want to be myself and do what I love, bottom line.

What was your first acting job?


IFC Films' "Pizza," which I did when I was 16 co-starring Ethan Embry and Julie Hagerty, among numerous notable others!

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Wow, I actually have no clue!  I've done a bit of everything, from commercials to TV to theatre to movies and staged readings...I even sang in my own mini-cabaret a few months ago.  I'm just happy to be working.

 Who are your favorite actors?

I love so many of them that I think we'll be here all day!  My definite top ones are Bradley Cooper, Robert Downey Jr., Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, Kate Winslett, Cate Blanchett, Vera Farmiga, George Clooney, Michelle Williams, Meryl Streep (obviously,) Megan Mullally, Eliza Coupe, Alan Cumming, Kristin Chenoweth,  Carey Mulligan, Felicity Huffman (who is amazing, I got to work with her on "Desperate Housewives," and she is so awesome!), Ethan Embry (which seriously made my life complete getting to work with him!), Edie Falco, William H. Macy, Mary-Louise Parker, and so many more.  I am always inspired by any actor doing great work, whether it's a piece of theatre, a sitcom, a TV drama, or a film.

 How has your life changed since you became an actress?

It really hasn't changed much.  If anything, the location changed from Oklahoma to Los Angeles, but other than that it's my job that I do.  I've been so lucky to be able to focus on my career and have people support me, but they always keep me grounded.

 What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Tenacity.  It's not easy, but if you really want it and you do the work, it can be the best thing to ever happen to you.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I don't let grass grow under my feet!  I love working out, writing, exploring (you can usually find me in my car driving around), hanging out with friends, going out and just enjoying.  There's always something you can do in LA, between the museums, the shopping, the restaurants....just taking my dogs to the park is a great time.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become an actress?

I have been so lucky and blessed that this is the only job I've ever done since I was 16 years old, even during college.  I have experience in being a personal assistant but it doesn't really count because it's been for my parents, and my parents wanted me to focus on school and career and they would help me out on the rest.  I am just so grateful for that.

How would you describe your film education?

I didn't go to film school; I went to theatre school at USC, but since I've been working since I was 16 and watching movies and TV loooooong before, I feel like I have a pretty nice hands-on education.  However, with every project I've work on, I try to learn something from it so I can make my performance better the next time.  I had NO clue about all the technical aspects on "Pizza" because I had never been in front of a camera before, but I learned so much that by the end of the shoot I knew what to ask, where to stand, how to move, etc.  Each job is so different that I usually learn something about either filmmaking or performance.  With "Squaresville," Matt and I had a discussion about the post-production process, and I learned SO much about the evolution of the post-production process even from five years ago!

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

Films: Empire Records, Garden State, The Hangover, Wet Hot American Summer, Amelie, City of God, Beginners, Midnight in Paris, The American President, Ghost World, Requiem for a Dream, The Social Network, Bridesmaids, Harry Potter (obviously!), Chicago, WALL-E, all of the Christopher Guest movies, all Kevin Smith movies (minus Red State since I have yet to see it), The Motorcycle Diaries, Lost in Translation, The Ides of March was incredible, Never Let Me Go, An Education, The King's Speech....seriously, we are going to be here all day!

TV: Suburgatory, Happy Endings, Mad Men, 30 Rock, Parenthood, Dexter, The Biggest Loser, The Amazing Race, How to Make It In America, Entourage (RIP), the first few seasons of Weeds, Nurse Jackie, and Grey's Anatomy, Freaks and Geeks, Undeclared, Desperate Housewives, ER (back in the day), Kitchen Confidential (which I rewatch on Hulu all the time!), Alias, Sports Night, The West Wing, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (I'm a big Aaron Sorkin fan, can you tell?)...I watch a lot of TV.

 How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

You can't get any bigger than Los Angeles.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

I think a lot of films, webseries, and even television shows have been successful because of social media.  I believe Judd Apatow said that Bridesmaids was "the movie Twitter built," and it's so true-it became this huge unexpected hit because of word of mouth.  With so much of our world being interactive and online, a little show people may have not given a chance a few years ago now can become the next big thing.  A good chunk of marketing nowadays relies on social media, so I think as long as you use it to their advantage, you can create successful programming based on a Facebook page or a Twitter account.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I think sites like Kickstarter and Indie-a-GoGo are wonderful in helping out projects that may not get a chance outside of a major label or company.  Before the "Squaresville" campaign, several friends of mine had launched Kickstarters to get their albums recorded, their short films funded, even their theatre companies launched.  Sometimes we have to take the bull by the horns and do things ourselves, and Kickstarter helps make ideas reality.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I think independent media has the ability to tell stories that wouldn't normally pass studio gates.  Take a look at some of the films from Sundance this year; I saw "Martha Marcy May Marlene" a few weeks ago, and everything about it was haunting and incredible, but it only saw the light of day because of the film festival circuit helping independent cinema get off the ground.  Independents really do help each other out, and the communal aspect is a major draw for me.

 You could go back in time and act in any film. Which film would it be and why?

This is such a good question!  I think I would LOVE to be either Sam in Garden State or Kathy in Never Let Me Go.  These are two of my favorite roles I've seen in recent years, and they're so unique and challenging in their own ways that it would be an awesome task to take on.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

The universe is so big that I refuse to believe we are the only life that exists.

Do you have any favorite charities?

I really love supporting animal rescue organizations and no-kill shelters (either with money or supplies), as well as pro-women's rights organizations (i.e. Planned Parenthood).  In the past I have also donated to St. Jude and Susan G. Komen, two charities that are vital to our society.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

There is a quote in "Contact" that I love that David Morse says-"Small Moves, Ellie.  Small Moves."  I think it just reminds me that we can't rush things.  We have to take our time and do the work, and when we do that, incredible things can happen.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I think if done correctly, they can be great.  Also, with some sequels, you have to go into it knowing that it's not going to be as good as the original.  If it is, great.  If not, you won't be disappointed.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

They can be hit and miss.  Some are better than the book, while other times the movie will leave major information out which hurts the story, especially if it's widely known.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you so much for wanting to interview me!  And watch "Squaresville" when it debuts online in early 2012 at www.squaresvilleseries.com!

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Thanks for doing the interview Kylie.  I recently saw "Pizza". I thought you did a wonderful job. I look forward to "Squaresville" in 2012. You have an open invitation to do another interview for your next project, if you want to.

Cheryl Dunn: Filmmaker And Photographer

Cheryl Dunn is a filmmaker and photographer based in New York City. Her films have played at numerous film festivals including Tribeca, Edinburgh, Rotterdam, Los Angeles and Havana, and on PBS. Her work has been exhibited in various galleries and museums including Deitch Projects in New York, The Tate Modern in London ,and the "Art in the Streets" exhibition at the Geffen Contemporary MOCA. Cheryl was one of the subjects the documentary, book & traveling museum exhibition “Beautiful Losers”. She has had two books of her photographs published - Bicycle Gangs of New York,and Some Kinda Vocation. She is currently in the final stages of a feature documentary "Everybody Street" about NYC street photographers.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am finishing up my feature documentary "Everybody Street " about NYC street photographers.

How do you measure success?

Having an idea and actually making it. Seeing it through. Having the guts to put what you make out into the world.

How do you handle rejection? 

It depends on how it is delivered I think. Rejection is part of life.  Not everything is for everyone. When I think back to all of the times I was rejected it becomes clear that those things I was trying to get maybe were not right for me.  Rejection pushed me in another direction that 10 years later I am very thankful for the path I took because of that rejection was more true to me.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I was very open to being anything that would keep my spirit free. That would enable me to have andventures and travel and be physical. When I was under twenty I wanted to be a professional dancer.  A modern dancer.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

I look back and realize how all the family pictures and movies my mother made of us informed me a lot about having visual records of life and how enjoyable and interesting that was to me. I started taking pictures as a young teenager. In my 20's I starting assisting then shooting professionally. First as an assistant then for myself. Messing round with old 8 mm cams and bolex's. I think I liked the release from the still frame and incorporating many other elements like motion , music , story line .

What is the best thing about being one?

Well I do documentary, so the best thing about that is entering a world and learning so much about something that you didnt know before . The best thing about that is being let into someone's world, someone's head, their trust. That is a big responsibility and I welcome that because I think every human is equally important and their voices should be heard , not just people that are part of celebrity culture which is very twisted and guides a lot of the society. These are not the people who we should be following and learning from. This is not how society advances.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Carrying all the gear and how much it costs.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Specifically film projects? Maybe 80 or so ? Don't know.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Pedro Almovadar. Les Blank

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I never get a day off.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

I dont know. I have not really made it in the movie business. In general, think about why you want to do something. If it is for good reasons, go for it. It will takes years of your life so you should be sure. You can make little things in hours and days and you should always be making things and practicing your craft. You learn the most from mistakes. Better to make mistakes when the stakes are not so high.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Obviously taking pictures. I love to go to music festivals and take pictures and dance.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

Photography

How would you describe your film education?

Self taught

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

I live in NYC. It is a creative capital for all things. In NY it is more about independent films. On a smaller scale everyone is making music vids and web films. The technology is so accessable now and print media is dying so it is all about the moving image.  Everyone is in the game.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

In a big way. More people can make them. You can try to self fund them. You can promote them. It is more DIY than ever before.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

It's a great idea. I'm doing a kickstarter right now.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Independent film is a term used for having things financed out of the studio system. The old models are changing so this definition is changing.

You could go back in time and see any film being made. Which film would it be and why?

Any Fellini film . or early Terrance Malick film . Apacolypse Now, Mean Streets, Taxi Driver, Fitzcaraldo

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

"What's the matter , never scene the sunrise" from the Taking Of Pelham 123

" I'm  walking here." Miidnight Cowboy .

Any thing from Putney Swope.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Don't like them, they should just reissue the first ones with sick sound and new prints. I mean they remade Shaft? Come on .. they do this for current generations as if young people need it to be updated . I think they bank on that the younger generation doesn't really know the earlier film.  I think they are underestimating the intelligence of people and by far they would have greater success just marketing the awesome first one.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Fine

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Sorry for the misspellings. I'm on a train to Belgrade right now.

Richie Moriarty: Actor, Photographer, Improviser and Writer

Richie Moriarty is an actor (richietown.tumblr.com), photographer (www.richietown.com), improviser (www.improvasylum.com) and writer living in Boston, Massachusetts. Originally from Rockville, Maryland, Richie is a graduate of Boston College. He spends his days working as a professional photographer and many of his nights improvising or performing sketch comedy on stage.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am currently in pre-production on a comedic webseries that I co-wrote with Matt Catanzano, a fellow actor from Improv Asylum. It's called "ETC: Employment Through Craigslist." While looking through the "ETC" section of job postings on Craigslist one day, we realized that there were enough bizarre postings to inspire a series. Each episode of "ETC: Employment Through Craigslist" is based on an actual job posting from the ETC section. We have raised over 50% of our funding for the Kickstarter project for the series (http://kck.st/oG966j) and are planning to shoot the first week in December.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

My experiences as both an actor and photographer have led me down the path of filmmaking, but I should say that I'm not primarily a filmmaker. I am an actor and a photographer who dabbles in filmmaking. Our Director of Photography, Chris Loughran, is much more of a filmmaker than I am.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No, there were a couple of weeks in 1989 when I wanted to be Uncle Jesse from Full House. As you can tell from my headshot, that never panned out.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

I'm going to say Terrence Malick, but if you asked me on another day I'd probably give you another answer. I've been on a Malick kick in the last few months. I recently saw Badlands and Days of Heaven after watching Tree of Life and rewatching The Thin Red Line. I really enjoy all of his films.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I can no longer watch a film without being distracted by continuity issues. It's annoying.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Keep working. Keep creating. It's the only way we get better. I'm paraphrasing This American Life's Ira Glass. Here's his full quote, which I love: "Nobody tells this to people who are beginners, I wish someone told me. All of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, it’s just not that good. It’s trying to be good, it has potential, but it’s not. But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you. A lot of people never get past this phase, they quit. Most people I know who do interesting, creative work went through years of this. We know our work doesn’t have this special thing that we want it to have. We all go through this. And if you are just starting out or you are still in this phase, you gotta know its normal and the most important thing you can do is do a lot of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions. And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I’ve ever met. It’s gonna take awhile. It’s normal to take awhile. You’ve just gotta fight your way through."

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I am an actor (richietown.tumblr.com), improv comedian (www.improvasylum.com) and photographer (www.richietown.com).

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

I volunteered as a teacher in Sacramento for a year after graduating from Boston College. I moved back to Boston after that year and worked a few desk jobs before realizing that I just couldn't do that kind of work. I felt trapped and stifled. I left a my job as a fundraiser at a non-profit to work for peanuts at a small video production company that a friend owned. I learned how to edit with Final Cut at that job and learned the basics of lighting, production, storytelling, etc. I had to leave about six months in because I needed money. The appeal of a steady paycheck led me back to an office job. That didn't last long. I now have a great full-time gig as a photographer with an architectural photography company. My schedule is very flexible and I'm able to take time off for acting gigs and other projects. I feel very lucky.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

Some favorite American films are The Goonies, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Dumb and Dumber, "Trust Us, This Is All Made Up," Wonderboys, The Thin Red Line, The Shawshank Redemption, Good Will Hunting, Saving Private Ryan, Magnolia, When Harry Met Sally, and Rushmore.

Some favorite foreign films are Animal Kingdom, City of God, A Prophet, Amelie, Dogtooth, Bus 174, Y Tu Mama Tambien, Amores Perros, The Lives of Others, and The Diving Bell and the Butterfly.

My favorite television shows are Mad Men, Breaking Bad, The Wire, Friday Night Lights, Modern Family, Community, 30 Rock, The Office, Parks and Recreation, Arrested Development, The West Wing, and The Daily Show.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Social media has made it infinitely easier for audiences to find films and for films to find audiences. Some of the viral shorts that I've been in have been viewed hundreds of thousands of times. There's no way that would have been possible without social media.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

We're in the middle of a Kickstarter project that we're getting close to funding in full. I think crowdfunding is really great. It's been amazing to see the support come in from friends, family and perfect strangers that found us through Kickstarter. I think crowdfunding is a great way to really motivate a filmmaker to create high quality work. I think you tend to hold yourself to a higher standard when friends, family and strangers are chipping in to help make your project a reality.

You could go back in time and see any film being made. Which film would it be and why?

The Goonies. Spielberg, Chunk, Sloth, the Fratellis, and Cannon Beach in Oregon? Yes, please.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

From Wonderboys:
James Leer: Now, that is a big trunk. It holds a tuba, a suitcase, a dead dog, and a garment bag almost perfectly.
Grady Tripp: That's just what they used to say in the ads.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I'm okay with sequels if they tell a new, interesting story. I think remakes are generally lazy and motivated by money.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We'd love you to donate to our Kickstarter project! Thanks! http://kck.st/oG966j

Dan Founder Of MoviePlayoffs.com

What is "MoviePlayoffs"?

MoviePlayoffs.com is a site for passionate movie fans. On our home page, we run tournaments like Best Movie of All Time, Best Actor of All Time, Best Director of All Time, etc.  The public determines the winners – not the critics. To make it more exciting, all tournaments are in a single-elimination format. We run an annual Best Movie (enter year here) tournament so the public will determine Best Picture for the year, not just an academy with slightly over 5,000 people. This will take time, but if we stick with it, we believe this tournament has incredible potential. Why should an academy choose over the people?

We also have a 10 Minute Movie Contest, where amateur filmmakers can show off their work. This is our busiest page and offers great exposure. One production company is already looking into one of the short films from Season 1.

We also have other games like Movie Unscramble, Movieball, Title Tournament, and Name That Movie. The winner for each contest goes on the Champions Page forever, which our members enjoy.

What inspired you to create "MoviePlayoffs"?

About 10 years ago, I wanted to make it a TV show, but I didn’t have the connections. The idea was on the backburner for a while. After I found out late in 2010 that I was going to be making less money at my job in 2011, I decided I didn’t want to depend on anyone else anymore. I knew it would be a long road, but strongly believed there were hundreds of thousands of people out there who would enjoy MoviePlayoffs.com. That’s when I contacted Joe, the site designer, to see if this would be possible.

How do you define success?

Not having to answer to anyone. :)

How do you handle rejection?

The most talented people in the world always say that you can’t please everyone all of the time. When I get rejected, I just think about that.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

James Cameron. Genius.

How has your life changed since you created "MoviePlayoffs"?

I have no time to do anything, but I enjoy working on the site. The tough part is working to make money at the same time.

What do you like to do besides running your site?

Travel with family, watch movies, play softball and poker.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

T2, The Matrix, Field of Dreams, The Breakfast Club, The Big Lebowski. I don’t watch much TV other than the NFL.

How would you describe your film education?

Zero.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

Almost non-existent.

How has social media changed the film industry?

It has helped the indie community tremendously, which is very cool.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I have noticed that many independent filmmakers are more talented than many professional filmmakers. That’s why people are watching more short films these days.

You could go back in time and see any film being made. Which film would it be and why?

Saving Private Ryan. I want to see how they filmed that incredible opening scene.

What’s your favorite movie quote and why?

“What’s your favorite movie?” “Flowers for Algernon.” “That’s not a movie.” “Haven’t seen it.”

Funny and clever. Adaptation is a clever movie all around.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Yes.

Do you ever wish you had a super power? If so, what would it be and why?

To be able to accomplish three tasks at once. Because you would get three times as much out of life.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I believe quality is quality and garbage is garbage. Depends on remake/sequel.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Depends on movie/book. I’m not against it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Yes. MoviePlayoffs.com would not be even remotely possible without Joe’s help. He designed the site and manages a lot of the everyday tasks. He’s easy to work with, intelligent and creative.

Author C.J. West

C.J. West is the author of the thrillers The End of Marking Time, Sin and Vengeance, A Demon Awaits, Gretchen Greene and Taking Stock. Sin and Vengeance, the first book in C.J.’s Randy Black series, is currently in development for film with Beantown Productions, LLC (screenplay by Marla Cukor). C.J. also hosts a Blog Talk Radio show which features interviews of contemporary thriller and suspense writers. Find C.J. at www.22wb.com or at www.cjwestkills.wordpress.com.

What is the current project you are working on?

I'm finishing up Addicted to Love, a thriller about being madly in love. It's a departure from traditional suspense novels, but I really enjoyed writing about the feeling you get when you are so attached to someone that the rest of the world fades away. Addicted to Love is due October 18. I'm also working on a new 5 book series that is more of a traditional mystery series and I'm really excited to take the plunge into writing.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

The early stages of a writing project are for me what it must be like to be hooked on drugs. When I commit to a concept for a new book, I can lock myself in a room and work for days on end and be perfectly content. Plotting a new book, researching science or hobbies or locales, and writing those early drafts are great fun for me.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Poverty.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I've worked on 6 books, 5 published and one due this year. I've also worked on one film adaptation (of one of my books) as an advisor. The film adaptation of Sin & Vengeance was a great experience for me even though the adaptation was written by Marla Cukor.

Who is your favorite author?

I really admire Tim Hallinan for his ability to craft lyrical prose.

What are some of your favorite books?

I have really enjoyed: Relic, Through Violet Eyes, Blackhawk Down, Death Troupe and many others.

How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?

There is no writing scene where I live. I'm in the country where I can find 100 wild animals for every writer I encounter. The solitude makes this a fantastic place to work. I take long walks and soak in the scenery and when I'm finished I'm energized to get back into my work.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

The combination of social media and electronic publishing have made it possible to make a living as a mid-list writer. I think that is the most important change in the writing community in many years. Readers can connect

with new authors, sample their work, and tell them what they thought of it all without leaving home. This is a remarkable change that is already having a major impact on the industry.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?

As I have matured as a writer, I've begun to think more strategically about my stories. I enjoy exploring my characters' lives and as I learn about them, I think about how to tell their story so it will delight readers.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

I want to have the power to entertain millions of people with my stories.

Author S.M Boyce

S.M. Boyce, a fantasy and paranormal fiction novelist who also writes contemporary fiction and comedy. She updates her blog (http://smboyce.blogspot.com/p/smboycecom.html) a few times each week so that you have something to wake you up in the morning.




What is the current project you are working on?


I just published my debut novel, The Grimoire: Lichgates, and I’m about to start on its sequel. I’ve been plotting and designing the Grimoire Trilogy for over six years, so it’s a dream come true to see it come to life.

I’m also running tons of contests for free downloads, exclusive artwork, and more on the book’s website: www.TheGrimoireBooks.com. You can read never-before-seen short stories from the book, deleted chapters, read excerpts and character sketches, and so much more. Go on over – it’s fun!

 What is the best thing about being a writer?


The crazy late-night parties and heavy drinking. Oh wait, that’s rock stars? Never mind.

 

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to become a writer?


Stay true to yourself. People will mark up your work and say that you suck: that just happens any time you put yourself out there.  St the end of the day, all that matters is whether or not you like what you write. Be true to yourself, be true to your work, and do what makes you happy.

  

 Did you always want to be a writer?

Yes, and I’m just lucky that my parents supported me even when I told them I didn’t want to be a lawyer. My first story was about a pickle who was the last one in the jar, and the poor little thing just wanted to be eaten. I was six, so I should hope that my stories have improved somewhat since then.




 What inspired you to become writer?


It was never really a choice. I know that one of the main lessons in The Grimoire trilogy is how life is full of choices , but if I’m not writing, I feel kind of empty. It’s something I have always been driven to do and I’m just not complete unless I’ve written something today.

 


What do you like to do besides writing?


There’s a life outside of writing?

Just kidding. I’m a wife and we have about the weirdest dog ever, but I love the little guy anyway.  I love biking and rock climbing (bouldering on the safe little rubber holds). I also test software in my J-O-B and read as much as I can.

 How would you describe your education?


I’m a trained writer with a bachelors in Creative Writing from the Florida State University, which is a tough program to complete. I really enjoyed my time there and made some great friends that actually did the beta reading of my novel before it was published. There’s a lot of talent there, and I know how lucky I am to have been a part of it.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

I know that a lot of writers are against movie adaptations, but I think it’s the greatest tool available to get your story out to the most people possible. Think about it: not everyone likes to read. That’s fine. But if you create a movie, you bring that story to a wider audience than you could have originally. The catch is that you need to find a good screen writer or do it yourself, because the storyline can be otherwise corrupted in the conversion process.

 

 What are some of your favorite books?


Hmm, is this a trick question? Let’s see. To name a few: The Hobbit (Tolkien); Neverwhere (Gaiman); The Harry Potter Series (Rowling); Ender’s Game (Card).

I also host a book blog, which you can find by going to my website at www.smboyce.com. I review tons of books in all genres there, so you can find some great recommendations.

Filmmaker And Communication/Development Manager For The Sidewalk Film Festival

This week, Rebecca will start a new job as the Assignment Manager for WAAY-TV in Huntsville, Alabama. Most recently she was the Communication Manager for the Sidewalk Film Festival and during the off season co-directed/produced her first short film titled CRUSH. Before that Rebecca worked in Television News for 13 years at various stations around the country.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am working on a short film titled CRUSH - One woman's quest to find the perfect chair. The film tells the story of relationships...each chair representing a different type of relationship.

How do you define success?

Success is what you make of it. It's setting your goals and going for it. You can tell say to yourself that you want to do something, but it is doing it that makes you successful.

How do you handle rejection?

With my relationships or something else? Rejection is a part of life. You may not also get want you want, but you learn from those experiences and gain knowledge on how to do it better next time.


What inspired you to become involved in the independent film industry?

I have always had a love for film. I worked in TV news for 13 years and working in that environment you tell stories everyday. You bring that persons story to other people.

How has your life changed since you became involved with the film industry?

The biggest change is just the people that I have met over the years, it is great meeting new people involved in film and hearing their stories about their journey doing something they love.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to create your film "Crush"?

CRUSH was not my full time job. I work in the TV News industry and have been for 13 years. And for 2 years I was involved with the non-profit that produces the Sidewalk Film Festival.


Do you think doing PR/marketing for the  Sidewalk Film Festival gave you a unique perspective when it came to creating your film?

I think it gave me pointers on how to submit to festivals, how to talk to the staff working the festivals and seeing how other filmmakers market their films.


What are some of your favorite films you saw at the Sidewalk Film Festival?

Too many to list!! My favorite film of the year has been PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES, which I had the opportunity to see at SXSW this year (and was Sidewalk's closing night film). This is my personal favorite because it told the story of an industry that I was in for so long and really hit home, to paraphrase David Carr in the film "the newsroom turned into sheet cakes and good-byes"


What was it like hanging out with filmmaker Sean Hackett and film critic Nic Baisley at the festival?

This is an odd question. Sean and Nic are great folks. Nic I got to meet at SXSW and Sean I met through Sidewalk because his film HOMECOMING was screening. I don't get to "hang-out" a lot at the festival - I think someone nicknamed me "drive-by" this year, because I was so busy running around making sure the festival was running, didn't have much time other to say hi and bye. Sean is one to watch - he is a great filmmaker and will have a huge career and is a geek which I loved - it always made my day to see him in some sort of Star Wars t-shirt. Nic is a great journalist and a fun person to be around. You should check him out at filmsnobbery.com


What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to become involved in the independent film industry?  

Just do it. Honestly just do it. I kept saying to myself for years - about 7 - that I want to do this...and you know what I finally did. You have to keep your chin-up and make sure you are always networking, you never know who you are going to meet next.

Who are your favorite filmmakers? 

Too many to list. Every filmmaker brings a different thing to the table - we are all artists.

How would you describe your film education? 

None - I went to school to go into TV News, but along the way met people that were making films and got involved in any way I could. If that meant just holding a script for an actor - I did it. Don't let not having a "formal" education in film to stop you from accomplishing your dreams. Learn as you go and get involved.


How would you describe the film "scene" where you live? 

Right now, I don't know! I just moved to Huntsville, AL. But Birmingham, Alabama has a great group of talented filmmakers. It is a great place to be, where you are surrounded by so many creative people. It is a great group and I am happy to call them friends.


How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Network, network, network. Social media gives you a place to meet and interact with people you would maybe never meet. I have so many people that I would call friends that I have met through Twitter, but have never met in person. It is always a treat when you do finally get to put a voice and face to someone you have been talking to for years. With any industry it is about networking and getting to know other people that are involved. Did I say networking?

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Yes. The universe is way to big and there is so much out there that we have not yet discovered. We are gains of sand on a tiny rock. Have you seen the images from the Hubble telescope????


What's your favorite movie quote and why?

"Enough now, enough" Love Actually. Makes my heart tight everytime.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows:

Gosh...lets see...I love so many. I am a huge sci-fi geek - so name one and it is probably on my list. I love watching all types of foreign films and anime films....I don't think I have seen one I didn't like. It is really cool to see what filmmakers in other countries are doing too. TV Shows...man....okay I guess I will give you a small list: Community is my current favorite comedy show, and I am looking forward to checking out some of the new dramas coming up this fall and really hope that FOX schedules Locke & Key soon!