Author Charity Parkerson

Charity Parkerson was born in Tennessee, where she still lives with her husband and two sons. As a pre-school teacher, she needed tons of creativity in order to not be eaten alive. Her love of reading, led to the creation of her fictional Agents of The U.S. Defense against Homeland Terrorism, the MMA fighters of Smith brothers fight club, the men of Smith Security Services, and the paranormal world of her Sinners Series. You can like her at Facebook.com/authorCharityParkerson. Be sure to visit her at www.charityparkerson.com and you can read her blog at http://charity-thesinners.blogspot.com

She is a member of The Paranormal Romance Guild, is a Goodreads moderator, a member of Coffee Time Romance, a member of Long and Short Romance Reviews, and is a Library Thing author.

She won author of the week in August of 2011, and The Mistress of the Darkpath writing contest in September 2011.

You can follow her on Twitter @CharityParkerso

What is the current project you are working on? 

I am currently working on two different books.

“A Splash of Hope”-Contemporary Romance

Faith, Harmony, and Serenity better known as the three Hope sisters…

Serenity Hope is set to marry the hottest bachelor in town, but when she leaves him standing at the altar, and disappears without a trace, Faith and Harmony must return to their hometown and face the demons of their pasts.  It is only as they follow the clues to Serenity’s whereabouts, which they find that the lives they left behind are the only life for them.

“The Danger with Sinners” book 3 of the Sinners Series- Paranormal Romance

The Society of Sinners and the Safe Haven Corporation team up in Parkerson’s third installment of the Sinners Series, in order to locate and capture head of Research Inc., Tacha Vasiliev.

Tacha is accused of using her company as a cover for development of a weapon of mass destruction, the ultimate vampire.

Caleb Cook, aka Danger, is sent to infiltrate the home of Sr. V.P. Narmer Harolds in hopes of uncovering clues to Tacha’s whereabouts.

Disguised as head of security, Danger finds his biggest challenge isn’t Narmer himself, but his headstrong daughter, Kim.

However, just as Danger is not what he appears to be, neither is Kim.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

My characters are not necessarily good.  I tend to write about people (or creatures) that have troubled past, or work unsavory jobs, but I try to find a way to make you love them despite it all.

What inspired you to become a writer?

As a teenager, I spent a lot of time writing poetry.  As an adult, I stayed at home with my children, and spent a great deal of time reading.  After awhile, I began thinking things such as, “I would’ve ended that differently,” or “I wanted her to end up with that other guy.”   Eventually, I began scribbling out my own stories.  I never intended to try for publishing, and I never would have, if my husband had not pushed me into it.  I, like most writers, felt very insecure about my work, and I really didn’t want people to hate it.  I finally sent it to a publisher, and to my surprise, they wanted it.  Since then, I have struck out on my own as an Indie, and I have not regretted that decision.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

I love sharing my characters with the world.  I feel a deep connection with each of my characters, since I put a little bit of myself into every one of them.  Moving a person to tears or laughter, gives me the greatest feeling of accomplishment.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Promoting hands down.  I never dreamed that I would spend so much time working on promotions, that I would not have enough time to write.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Keep writing and stay true to yourself.   Don’t let the opinions of others steal your voice.

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

I have 5 published books, and two more in the works.  I have a short story that won the Mistress of the Darkpath September writing contest.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I love to read and watch football.


Who is your favorite author?

I’m torn between two.  I love paranormal romance, but my all time favorite is historical romance, and I rush to buy anything Julia Quinn or Eloisa James.

 What are some of your favorite books?

This is such a tough question.  I own thousands of books.  Some of my favorites are the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris, Velvet Angel by Jude Deveraux, and Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood.

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

I only know one other writer in my town.  I am sure that there are several, but I tend to meet authors online.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

It has definitely made it easier for a writer to get to know their readers, and to make friends with other authors, without having to be a member of pricey literary guilds.

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

I’m horrible to live with when I’m in the middle of a story.  I don’t sleep and I talk to myself.  I carry a notebook everywhere that I go, because my characters talk to each other while I think, “Oh.  That was good.  Let me write that down.”

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

Invisibility.  How much fun would that be?  :)

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I do.  I think the universe is too vast to believe that we are alone.  They are probably millions of miles away, just as oblivious to us as we are to them.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

It is a rare occasion that a movie does the book justice.  In most cases, I end up disappointed.

If you could have any first addition book. Which would it be and why?

As a romance author, I love all things romance, so I must go with Pride and Prejudice.  A copy sits at Chats worth house, and I’m not sure how much was paid for it, but I’m sure that it was a small fortune.

Filmmaker Shane Ryan

Writer/Director Shane Ryan first hit the scene in 2007 with his shocking debut feature faux snuff film "Amateur Porn Star Killer." The film, made for nothing and shot in a single night in one take, was so successful it spawned a trilogy and a 3D parody. The film instantly deemed Ryan as a ground breaking, thought provoking, and controversial filmmaker. His follow up to the "Amateur Porn Star Killer" series was met with so much criticism, debate, and controversy, it even got banned by many places not for the content, but for the title and storyline. Ryan has been acclaimed by every place from the Los Angeles Times, to MTV, to Mr. Skin, to the underground blogger, and hated by every level of critic as well, proving his voice speaks louder than most filmmakers in the industry today, always sparking an incredibly strong opinion and emotion. His latest film, "My Name is A by anonymous," will most likely do the same. Taking on the challenge of figuring out how to tell the story about a killer far before her trail begins in real life, Ryan mixes fantasy, reality, fiction, speculation, and personal beliefs to create a film unlike anything you have seen before. And soon, he'll take on the underground sex trafficking epidemic with "Abducted Girl, an American sex slave." To learn more about Shane and his work check out his websites below.

Shane Ryan's Films and Company web sites

Abducted Girl an American sex slave - http://www.youtube.com/SexSlavesAmerica
My Name is A by anonymous - http://www.youtube.com/MyNameisAbyanonymous
Mad Sin Cinema - http://www.youtube.com/Madsincinema
http://madsincinema.blogspot.com/
Alter Ego Cinema - http://www.youtube.com/AlterEgoCinemaFlix
http://www.alteregocinema.com/

What is the current project you are working on?

Got several things going on in many stages of production. I recently finished my new feature called "My Name is A by anonymous", wrapped a Japanese short film a couple weeks ago called "Tag" for a film contest, re-cut, or re-imagined a film from a couple of years back now called "The Girl Who Wasn't Missing" which I just got back this morning from its World Premiere in Vegas. Finally, I have several films I'm trying to get off the ground, one being the film we talked about called "Abducted Girl: an American sex slave."

What did you decide to make this film?

Many reasons. I'm still probably not aware of them all. I've always been drawn to true crime. I've always been drawn to the dark side of humanity and the dirty side of sexual behaviour. I have no problem with films, like say, American Pie, which treat it lightly, but I always saw the world in a different way I guess. I've known so many people who were raped, and heard enough stories about it, among other things, that I guess I wondered how people could take something that could be so beautiful and precious, something that creates human life of all things, and treat it so horribly wrong. The film that hit me hard that really made me want to explore the evil-ish side to sexual nature was Tim Roth's The War Zone. I was so affected by that film I immediately wrote a short version of it for a class I was taking. But I instantly changed it into a feature script with my own ideas. From there I couldn't stop exploring sex in film in it's nastiness form. I eventually finished a feature which tackled the idea of snuff films. I made several of those snuff features before making another feature which questioned pedophilia, at what point was somebody a pedophile or just expressing love, at what point is it rape, etc. It was after my first snuff feature, however, that I became aware of human trafficking. I was really shocked and scared after seeing a film about it. I couldn't believe this type of thing happened in America, and as much as it was, and that people consistently were getting away with it.

I believe the reason it hit me harder than the other ideas or films I made was because I could relate more to it. I know what, the beginning at least, part of it feels like. Being kidnapped, put in a place you don't know, with people you've never met, who don't even speak your language, waiting for it all to end, being told everything is okay when you're scared shitless and know it isn't, wanting nothing more than to escape and run home, or just run, even if it's in the wrong direction. That comes from being put in foster homes when I was 5 years old. I was in a perfectly good household. I was completely happy. But because of somebody misinterpreting a picture I drew (a picture a 5 year old drew) police stormed into our home and dragged me and my 1 year old brother (who they dropped on his head during the chaos) away screaming and crying, separating us when all we had were each other. Now, of course, that's not the same as being put in a brothel. But the initial reaction is the same, and it sticks with you forever. At that age I thought I was being kidnapped. And people were telling me I had been abused or molested, putting these horrendous thoughts in my head. I was with a family in a whole neighborhood whom barely spoke English. I didn't know what the hell was going on. I couldn't sleep. I cried constantly. I was seated next to terrifying criminals when they first took us and for whatever stupid reason placed kids in the same room as handcuffed criminals. These memories are more implanted in my head than pretty much anything. It wasn't until people who knew of this brought it to my attention that that's maybe why I have the need to know, explore, or why I connect to things like people being taken away (and for some times sexually based reasons). I know how they feel. I also dated a lot of girls in foster care when I was a teen, probably for the exact same reasons, I knew what they were going through, I felt the need to "rescue" them or something. It never seemed to work so maybe that's why I thought I could make films about things like that. Although sadly enough, most people think my films are meant to fulfill a perverts sick fantasy.

How do you handle rejection?

My life has been just one rejection after another so it just feels normal I guess. Then again being slapped in the face never feels great, you never get used to it, so being rejected is the same. It always hurts. You just keep pushing and hope. You hope for something better. And you try for it. Again. And again.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Sort of. I always wanted to be in film, ever since I was 5. But that was as an actor, I always loved movies but I wanted to be on camera, and be the characters I loved. When I was 7 I started making films to fulfill this dream and just never stopped.

What inspired you to become a filmmaker?

I guess it'd have to be the film I mentioned earlier, The War Zone. During those two hours I went from wanting to be in movies, to realizing I wanted to make them and tell stories that would be so devastating you wouldn't forget. To tell things I've let burn inside me and get them out. Of course, I'm not always 100% serious about things, it would be great to do fun entertainment films at some point.

What is the best thing about being one?

Lots of some times things. Some times getting to see your film on the big screen, some times getting a great poster or trailer for your film that makes you go "wow, look at my film coming out", some times getting free things like limo rides, trips, etc. Some times it's getting a really great review where people say you're "a genius", and other things you never thought of yourself as great enough to be. The best part is when you get a great reaction out of an audience member, or a random message from a fan who was completely moved by your film. Bringing somebody to tears really feels great (when it's for the right reasons). When people saw it helped them in some way, a good way, that's the best feeling.

What is the worst thing about being one?

People threatening to rape my mom, murder my family, rape me, slit my mom's throat, burn my house down, kill my dog, etc. All of these things are because I'm supposedly sick, which is the funny part; the people saying these things aren't? And of course being rejected. Spending money I don't have. Being ripped off. Losing friends because they didn't understand what you were trying to say, or simply didn't like it. Hearing "get a real job" and much harsher shit words from certain friends and family members to the point you feel like a complete pathetic loser and forget how much god damn years you've tried at this. Feeling like a total failure. Being so upset you want to grab everything you've ever worked on, including all the originals, and throw it out and burn it. Making people cry for the wrong reasons.

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

At least 100 films if you count acting and directing/producing/editing.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

There's lots of great filmmakers, I don't have one favorite. I'm more on a film by film basis. Say, I absolutely loved The Limey and Out of Sight but not much of Soderbergh's recent films. I loved Broken Flowers but just liked Coffee and Cigarettes. I was floored by Wendy and Lucy but not so much with Meek's Cutoff. Same with A Woman Under the Influence and Gloria, the first blew me away, the second I just really liked but nothing to really wow me. Point being I don't know a filmmaker who's made at least, say, 5-10 or more films that I thought were incredible every single time (well, Darren Aronofsky's doing pretty well with that). Lots of people have ups and downs, though I definitely prefer some filmmakers over others but not just one.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

Well, I've basically been one my whole life so I have no idea. I didn't have any other goals (aside from acting).

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

Man, it's so tough now I'd say find another career now and don't waste your time. But if you insist then my advice is give it your all. All or nothing. Have something to say and say it screaming. There are so many films out now that everybody with a camera phone and beyond thinks they're a filmmaker so don't throw more garbage into the bunch. Really find your voice and scream it. And don't give up. Even if you're fucking amazing and have that voice you're always going to face rejection. Film is completely subjective. You might be 90% loved but the person who keeps getting your film to judge or review or whatever might keep falling into that 10% who don't get what you're saying or aren't impressed.

And respect other filmmakers. When you go to a festival don't come to just your film and then ditch the other people especially when they're playing in the same block as you. Leaving in the middle of films is so rude and unless you have a damn good reason it's not going to get you on anyone's good side. I was just at a fest and even though I sat through about 20-25 hours of other people's films I still felt bad when I had to walk out of a film because I desperately needed a break. But I can't tell you how many filmmakers came just to watch their 10 minute film or whatever and then jetted out and didn't watch anything else but their own stuff. In my book that's incredibly uncool.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Watching movies. Ha, why my relationships all end. If I'm not working on a film I'm watching one. I just love movies.

But aside from that I really like dogs. Just hanging out and playing with dogs or watching animals, so fun to try and figure out what they're thinking or feeling.

I'm really into health and fitness. Working out, but not just that, overall health. It's a big hobby, too, and takes time learning. Into eating organic and raw foods. I don't smoke or do drugs or even really drink, fitness and health is a pretty big part of my life. Although I really love espresso. Like, really love it. I was just in Vegas and since I don't gamble, and as I said smoke or drink, when I wasn't watching the films there I was looking for new espresso places to try and one day kicked it with some employees and talked about espresso drinks for an hour. I just love a good bitter mocha.

And I'm sure plenty of others things. The beach at night, I spend lots of time just listening to things like the ocean, the wind, water falling, people, whatever. I'm a pretty big loner if you can't tell.

Things I'd really like to do if I had the money to spend all the time doing it is actually getting involved with organizations that help trafficking victims and causes like that. But I live dime by dime and there's nothing like that near where I am so it's something I'm hoping I'll have time for when I do start making enough money to do the drives or move closer, etc.

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

Well being a filmmaker I can't say is a job, I made more at Domino's than I did off of my films. But I've had tons of jobs. Delivering pizzas, working at clothing stores, doing infomercials, helping restore old silent films (those were the fun and inspirational jobs), coffee shops, fast food shops, waiting tables, working at gyms, amusement shops, daycare, and more I can't even think of. The only job I tried to do as a career was fitness training but only did it for a year and I hated it. I thought since I loved doing fitness and health I'd love teaching it but I couldn't stand it. Film is all I wanted to do.

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

Rocky, Taxi Driver and Swingers are probably my 3 favorite American films, not only because I think they're simply amazing but they're some of the only films I can also watch any time, whenever, all of the time. Lilya-4-Ever is one of the best foreign films I've ever seen, along with Martyrs, Old Boy, Irreversible. And on a completely different note I've always been an insanely huge Jean-Claude Van Damme fan.

TV is hard, I'm not big on TV. I like cartoons. Home Movies and King of the Hill I think are the two best shows ever. As far as live-action, Curb Your Enthusiasm. I'm more for comedy when it comes to TV, and drama when it comes to movies. The only drama show I really love is Lie to Me. It is all about what I've always loved doing in films ever since I saw The War Zone, and funny enough stars War Zone director Tim Roth. It's all about exploring and understanding peoples facial expressions, and how they tell everything without having to say a word. I'm big on showing emotion without having to say anything and this show is about just that, on a scientific basis.

How would you describe your film education?

I learned a little bit from my dad when I was young which is what made me want to start making films. But mostly, aside from technical things he's helped me with, my education was mainly teaching myself, or what I learned working on other films. I never really got schooling aside from a few classes at a community college which I hardly ever attended.

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

Non existent. Alexander Payne came in to shoot Sideways at one point about 8 years ago, other than that I never see a film being made here unless I'm making one. There are a couple of people I'm sure, but this is a small town. Most people just leave, or get stuck here and turn to meth, or the bars, or stay in and get high all day. Not a lot of creative ambition.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

I think in a real bad way. You have to reinvent yourself every week. Every time you figure out a new website a newer one comes along. You don't even have time to make the film, you have to spend all your time promoting yourself in 100 different ways for every network of sites, it's ridiculous. There's so much out there now, it's just one big mess in my opinion. I really hate it. I was trying to read something on some site and they had a twitter feed or whatever right next to it. It just looks like ramblings of numbers and user names and it was being updated every 2-3 seconds so I couldn't even read the damn article because the twitter images kept moving, it was too damn distracting. I'm not a big computer person, I like magazines, posters, DVD's, VHS. I always say I think I was born in the wrong time period. I'm not big on technology these days. I like the basics. I still have a tube TV and I fucking love it. Though there are some good things, don't get me wrong. I've made friends with people in the industry without ever meeting them because they're in other states or countries, doing interviews like these, etc. These are things that are great, I just think humans, like with everything else, abuse our resources and always want more, more, more. Now it's too much damn clutter.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

If it works go for it. I haven't had much luck but I'd do it more if I could make it work so if a filmmaker can make it work then do it. It's part of that internet stuff I say is too cluttered but that's why, probably, it's not been my thing, but I don't see a problem with raising money that way.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I think they're merging a whole lot these days, underground film is the new independent. In that sense everything is different. We do what we want, when we want, but without any help, backing, resources. We break laws to get things finished, we risk all we have and ask others to join the crazy ride. Our life is at stake every time we pick up a camera. It's like being a journalist and covering a war zone. We don't know from one second to the next where we're going to end up.

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

Metropolis. To see something so visually extraordinary and for that time I don't think anything could blow your mind like that.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Oh, I don't know, I'm not big on quotes just the movie in general. Almost anything said in Swingers. Or probably Rocky. Actually I think it was only said in Rocky Balboa. Rocky says something along the lines of "it's not about how hard you can hit it's about how hard you can get hit and get back up." That's how I pretty much live life and why I think I always loved Rocky so much. I take an awful lot of punches and always get knocked down. Yet I've never been knocked out, I somehow always find a way back up and try again.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I hate that we're bombarded with them, that's for sure. But sometimes they're okay. Some times they're great, just depends. We have The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo coming out and because it's David Fincher directing I'm very interested. But if it had been another director I might have been terrified and furious. It depends on who's making it, who's cast in it, it all just depends. I don't think they should be remaking some of these great character pieces from the 1970's though, like Straw Dogs for instance. I can see remaking a foreign film to get another country interested, or a film from another time period if it can be better visually because of the effects, or better resources. But a film that is all about character, those have no reason to be remade in the same language. The film is already perfect. Why remake it if you can't change anything for the better? But that goes for most remakes. If you can't match the original, or beat it, then don't even try.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

I'm not a big reader of novels so doesn't really affect me. I guess I would hope they don't screw up the author's story, to keep the soul of it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Think we covered quite a bit. Thanks.

Author Penny Grubb

Penny is a UK scientist, a crime writer and an academic (Health Informatics), and currently Chair of the Authors’ Licensing and Collecting Society which is the largest writers’ organization in the world.

A writer all her life, she penned her first story at age 4 and won her first writing competition at age 9.  In 2004 under the name Ellen Grubb she received an international  award, the Crime Writers’ Association’s Debut Dagger, and can be seen here giving her acceptance speech at the awards lunch.

She has worked in a variety of jobs, having been on the inside of pathology labs, operating theatres and medical schools across Europe.

Home is with her husband and a transient population of family members and animals large and small in an old farmhouse in a small East Yorkshire village.

Penny’s work involves four different workplaces in three different geographical locations several hundred miles apart.  Even with modern technology and cloud computing, it takes some serious organisation to keep the plates spinning on the sticks.  To find out more about Penny and her work visit http://www.pennygrubb.com/index.htm.

What is the current project you are working on?

My current big project is launching the first three of my private investigator series in paperback: Like False Money, The Jawbone Gang and The Doll Makers.  They were published in hardback by Robert Hale in the UK over the past few years and are just now out in paperback with Acorn Press.  I have had real support from WH Smith book stores who put in a big pre-order and I will be spending every Saturday from now to Christmas in a WHS store signing books - or maybe twiddling my thumbs whilst the shoppers meander by, but I hope not.  I'm also writing the 4th in the series and I'm a little behind schedule with it, partly because I have a children's book that I'm rewriting for a different publisher.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

The way I see it, we are all different and we experience the same things in different ways. And the trick is to bring that over into the books.  My trade mark is to keep things credible and authentic for a 21st century private investigator and then to make sure that the books are written from right inside my heroine's head.  That way, they are different from any other book because it is always uniquely Annie's story.  I also draw a lot on my own experience. I've never been an investigator but I've worked in forensics, in diagnostic pathology and spent a decade heading a research team in health informatics.  There is an element in all these roles of searching for something that will be hard to find and that might not be there at all.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I think it must have been growing up in a home where books and libraries were such a big part of life.  I don't remember a time when I didn't want to be a writer, specifically a novelist.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

A specific high point for me was winning a Crime Writers' Dagger for The Doll Makers.  More generally, the best thing is the satisfaction of being able to record the world in words, to capture emotion as well as facts and figures, and to be able to do the same for worlds that exist only in my head.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The all too prevalent assumption that writers don't need to be paid for what they do.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Learn the craft, otherwise you're fighting with one hand tied behind your back.  If you're serious, make time for your writing because if you wait for time to become available, it won't.  And practice.  Get words on paper.  Don't expect a masterpiece first time.  You wouldn't expect to hit the bullseye the first time you fired an arrow so don't expect the same with writing and don't allow the page to remain blank just because you can't find the perfect set of words.

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

I've lost count, but it's dozens.  The first novel I had published had been at the back of a cupboard for years and I'd given up on it.  A publisher wanted a later one in the Annie series and I had to get out that first badly written one and redo it.  I rewrote those 100k words from scratch several times.  If nothing else, it taught me not to be scared of rewrites.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I have two-day jobs and they are 200 miles apart, so with novels to write, there isn't a lot of time left over, but my favourite form of relaxation is to walk on the beach with my husband.  I'm a full-time academic.  I teach various topics including academic writing techniques and creative writing, but for the past few years my time has been partly bought out so I can Chair the Authors' Licensing and Collecting Society www.alcs.co.uk which is the UK society that collects and distributes fees to writers for secondary use of their work.  Last year the ALCS collected just over £30m.  With over 80,000 members, the ALCS is probably the largest writers society in the world.

Who is your favorite author?  What are some of your favorite books?

I'm taking these two questions together as I don't have a favourite author as such.  I have favourite books / authors of the moment.  I like Jeffrey Deaver's books because I enjoy the detailed unraveling of the puzzle, but I couldn't pick a favourite.  They're the sorts of books I tend to read, enjoy and then forget.  I like Danuta Reah's crime novels which are fairly dark psychological thrillers, Strangers being my current favourite.  I like Linda Acaster's Torc of Moonlight which gives a very real sense of the history that lies just inches beneath our feet as we go about our daily lives.  I'll happily reread many of the classics - Jane Austen, the Brontes, George Elliot.  And I can still happily reread Richmal Crompton's brilliantly crafted William books.  Recent great reads included Peter Godwin's Mukiwa and When a Crocodile Eats the Sun - and after reading the latter we no longer refer to cell phones in our family, we talk about the 'screaming in the pocket'.  I found Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall unputdownable, too.

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

It's vibrant.  East Yorkshire is a hotbed for writers and has several literature festivals.  I belong to a writing group that meets weekly and has members published in almost every genre, fiction and non-fiction.  We have some great libraries as well, currently under threat.  Protecting our libraries is a big deal for local writers at present.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

I wrote about this 4 years ago in the Guardian Books Blog when I was first appointed as ALCS Chair. http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2007/nov/30/theendofthewritingworldi And I stand by what I said then.  The simple answer is massively.  Like any revolution, there's a period of upheaval during which there will be winners and losers and eventually things will settle down.  The digital world will revolutionise the publishing industry.  Already we're seeing an unprecedented rise in Indie publishing and with it new industries to service the various elements of the process.  I don't have the answers but I'm confident that the world will always need great content and thus will always need writers.

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

Depends what stage I'm at - planning, drafting, editing, polishing.  Getting down the first full draft is when I really get in the zone and can write non-stop for as long as my hands can take the typing.   If I had regular working hours, I would write in the mornings and edit in the afternoons, but if I have a deadline to meet I can generate the mental energy to write  almost any time of day or night.

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

I already have all the super powers I need.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I'm a scientist.  I believe it's a statistical certainty that there's life out there somewhere.  Whether or not it's life that we would recognise as such is another matter.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

Some work, some don't.  I've known great books make dreadful movies and vice versa.  An example of a great book making a great movie is Silence of the Lambs.  I'd love for my books to be adapted for TV, but no one has the money right now.

If you could have any first addition book. Which would it be and why?

Ah ha! Here's a chance for a clever answer, given that I always enjoyed Math, I should think up an 'addition' book to put here.  However, I think you meant 'first edition' and that's a tough one. I'd either go for a first edition of a book, any book, written by one of my ancestors.  There were a good few writers in the family and we don't have a full collection.  My other option would be purely mercenary, I'd go for a first edition of Ulysses so I could sell it for a hundred grand or so, retire from at least one of the day jobs and devote more time to my writing.

Author Robert Collins

Robert Collins has had many novels published. He's had three SF novels published: "Monitor," "Lisa's Way," and "Expert Assistance." Mr. Collins also had a coming of age novel published called "True Friends." His stories and articles have appeared in periodicals such as Marion Zimmer Bradley's Fantasy Magazine; Tales of the Talisman; Space Westerns; Sorcerous Signals; Wild West; and Model Railroader. Robert had two biographies published, one of "Bleeding Kansas" leader Jim Lane, and the other of a Kansas Civil War general. Six of his Kansas railroad books have been published by South Platte Press. For To find out more about Robert and his books check out  http://robertlcollins.blogspot.com/


What is the current project you are working on?

I’m always working on something. My most recent book is “True Friends,” a short YA novel.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

Really, it’s just as simple as, I’m the one writing them. I have my voice. Even if I write similar plots, my books will have my own personal spin. That’s pretty much what all writers should do. Tell the story you want to tell, the way you want to tell it.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I’d always been somewhat creative. I got hooked into science fiction and fantasy by “Star Wars” and “Star Trek.” Then I read a book, “Asimov on Science Fiction,” by Isaac Asimov. That turned me onto the idea that I could turn my creativity into being a writer.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

Learning that someone liked the story I wrote.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Being alone with your concerns, especially when it seems nothing is selling.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Learn your art and your craft. Write every day. Have several projects to work on.

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

I wrote and published 9 travel booklets in the early 1990s. I’ve sold around 90 short stories and around 120 articles. I’ve had four novels published. I’ve had 12 nonfiction books published. All that doesn’t count the handful of novels, the dozen or so short stories, and the handful of nonfiction books I haven’t sold or published yet.

What do you like to do besides writing?

Read. Listen to music. I should be doing more with my model railroad, but I’ve been letting the hobby slide of late.

Who is your favorite author?

I really don’t have favorite authors, any more than I have favorite bands. I like books; the author doesn’t always matter.

What are some of your favorite books?

I’ve liked Lisa Shearin’s “Raine Benares” novels of late. Recently I’ve read a bunch of Robert E. Howard’s original Conan stories.

How would you describe the writing “scene” where you live?

Dunno. I know there are local authors in the Wichita area; I know a couple personally. I have no idea if locals like local authors. I recently did a Steampunk Expo here, and found that the people I met were pleased that a local was writing genre books.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

I think it’s made it easier for authors to connect with readers. It used to be that the only direct connection came at events, like signings or cons. Now you’re just a Facebook post or an email away.

On the other hand, it is harder to find readers. Your book was published, and if the reviews were positive, readers found you. Now you have to look for them. I have to say, I don’t think I’ve done as good a job as maybe I should. But I’ll keep trying.

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

Before I type word one, I try to have an idea of the story first. I try to get the characters’ voices, and play the scenes out first. That way the writing flows.

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

The power to convince people to buy my books without me having to be present.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Seems like a pretty big universe for us to be all by ourselves. Of course, that tends to make getting in touch tricky...

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I would love for one of my books to be made into a movie, but I would hate to have it made into a bad movie. Otherwise, it depends; no two books or movies are the same, and neither are any two adaptions.

If you could have any first edition book, which would it be and why?

I’m not a book collector. One of the reasons why I lik my iPad is that I’ve been able to cut down on the number of physical books I have. For me it’s about the story, not how I get the story.

Susanne And Trevor: A Mother And Son Filmmaking Team

Susanne Swanson-Bernard is a 3 time published author, freelance writer and poet as well as an award winning photographer and activist. She occasionally works on film project, especially if it can help her advocacy causes or if it involves one of her passions. She currently lives in Boise, Idaho.  Readers can learn more about Susanne at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=688596382&sk=info



Trevor Bernard is a filmmaker & poet. Residing in Boise, ID, Trevor has shot various short films as well as a cancer PSA & dozens of stop-motion segments. Drawn to all things artistic, Trevor spends his time drawing, sculpting, writing, playing guitar & of course...filming.

Aside from poetry, Bernard also writes reviews of filmmaking books for Michael Wiese Productions. Readers can learn more about trevor at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001513151604&sk=info

What is the current project you are working on?

Susanne: We are working on a documentary film hybrid about poetry and its effect on the human condition. We hope for this film to be very different from the standard/ordinary documentary, in the way it looks, and the way the information is delivered to viewers. This film will be entertaining to a broad audience and will be of social, historic and literary relevance. We hope to give the topic of poetry the rock star treatment!  Additionally, and sadly, after we interviewed Scott Wannberg, our first poet, we learned that he passed away on August 19th, so we were asked if Beyond Baroque could view some of the footage we filmed (the last footage of Scott), during a send off celebration in Scott's honor on September 17th. We decided to do them one better and edit Scott's footage into a separate tribute DVD for his send off. We've actually finished the tribute film for Scott Wannberg and put it on the market just recently.  It is titled "Meeting Mr. Mumps" after the title of one of Scott's first books.  The short film is now available for purchase at Beyond Baroque in Venice, CA. Early reviews have been outstanding and we've had the film reviewed from as far away as the UK and France and by a poet and award winning filmmaker by the name of Apryl Skies who runs her own publishing house at www.EdgarAllenPoet.com. The project we're working on now that we've completed the tribute film to Scott Wannberg "Meeting Mr. Mumps", is our feature length Poetry Doc "Hold the Line".  We've been stuck in pre production hell, but are ready to launch our Kickstarter trailer and our page for that and move ahead.  Sadly on Nov. 18th, we learned of the loss of another great poetic voice Mike Taylor.  I'm sure that right now he's giving Scott a great big man hug up in heaven where two great poetic voices will have been re-united.  We'll miss him too.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Trevor: Actually for awhile when I was younger, I was really into paleontology, this was after seeing Jurassic Park and the thought of hunting dinosaurs was very appealing. I soon discovered however, that it wasn't the films subject that I was in love with as much as it was the film itself.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Susanne: For me, it was the ability of using film, i.e. Public Service Announcements to help my causes, for Trevor it was just a natural extension to what he was already doing.

What is the best thing about being one?

Trevor: Having the ability to tell a story that can move the human heart.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Trevor: The seemingly never-ending search for enough money.

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

Susanne:  I'm currently working on my 5th project.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Trevor: I draw inspiration from Martin Scorsese, Peter Jackson, Robert Rodriguez...the list goes on...

Susanne: For me I'd have to say Ridley Scott and I love the visuals Julie Taymor used in films such as "Frida".

Trevor: Indeed

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

Trevor: I watch movies in a different way now, everything is a study of the art. Film fulfills me.

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

Susanne: I'll let Trevor field that question, I don't really have any designs on working steadily in film.

Trevor: Do lots of research...in all fields, know lighting, know cinematography and sound. This will make you a better team player and if you ever need to fly solo you will know what needs to be done. Never stop learning and don't loose sight of what brought you into filmmaking.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Susanne: The arts in general are captivating, I love photography, some multi media art, but I also enjoy language arts, philosophy and travel, and I’m and activist for Ric O’Barry and his plight to save the dolphins and all whales, as well as the battle to save the American Mustang.

Trevor: There is stuff besides filmmaking?

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

Susanne: I've had a variety of jobs that included a career in law-enforcement, a veterinary surgical technician and horse trainer, an author, child advocate and I'm a fine art photographer. My son is the real filmmaker.

Trevor: This and that...but a little more of this than that.

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

Trevor: I love the classics, King Kong ect. most Tarantino films and a lot of independent stuff pretty much everything IFC comes out with. As for foreign...Pan's Labyrinth is a master piece. When it comes to TV, Dexter and nothin' but.

How would you describe your film education?

Trevor: A healthy mix of Guerrilla Filmmaking with an internship that followed a good basic art foundation, online courses and hands-on training mixed with a lot of book-learning.

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

Susanne: Surprisingly vibrant actually. Boise is quite progressive. Most people think that it is very rural and all about potatoes, but it is very hip and edgy and down-town is hopping with artists in all media.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Susanne: I think it’s like night and day. I mean with the internet truly anyone can become a star. One example would be the gent that replaced Steve Perry in Journey! He was discovered on You Tube.

What's your opinion on crowd-funding?

Susanne: Crowd funding seems to be the way to go. We've done a lot of research and with a film such as ours, that deals with poetry, it's a topic with which we could go for a grant via the National Endowment for the Arts, but by the time you become a 501 C 3 and pay that fee, sign up and write for a grant, it's too much time waisted. Time is money in this business as in all others. Crowd funding has been highly recommended to us. We'll try to use that method.

Trevor: Yeah, exactly...we will find out in about a month from now, but going into it...I feel it's a great way for the people to support projects they care about and sort of wrangle together the creative community.

What is the casting process like?

Susanne: It is different with a documentary, so rather than seeking a person that has good chemistry with the other “actors”, or acts well, we have a slant, a certain direction for this film. So we look for poets that have written pieces that speak to that slant of social relevance or the present human condition.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Trevor: I feel pretty strongly that independent film has much more heart than what is typically seen in mainstream cinema. With indy films it's not about commercialism of selling a product. It's about the story, the character, the over all message. These things tend to get lost in big Hollywood productions.

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

Trevor: 1933, King Kong. This is the film that set in stone my love of filmmaking and it was beautifully filmed.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Trevor: "People look stupid when they cry" - Rain Wilson in Super. I could not stop laughing.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Trevor: This really depends on the filmmaker. If it's an individual who can't come up with an original idea and wants to make a quick buck by copying work than that will translate to the film and it will suck. However, when you have someone that is very passionate about a particular picture then you know that work will be in good hands. The goal with remakes is to complement the original, the goal with sequels is to know when to stop.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Susanne: I feel they must truly stay close to the written word.

Author Leslie Ann Wright

Leslie Ann Wright is an avid reader and writer. She resides in the Northwest with her husband Terry. When she is not reading or writing you can find her with her daughters and grandchildren in either Tampa, Florida or Scottsdale, Arizona.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am working on several; the focus is an interesting take on the blades used in murder throughout the years, called the Karma Stone.  I am also working on an investigative sister team with paranormal abilities as well. It is yet unnamed.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

It has been said that there are never any new ideas, and yet I pick and poke until I find something that is unique or just a bit different. I try to imbue a freshness and newness to the work.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I have lived in books my entire life, they have been my passion and my escape, and they have been my adventure and my danger. I know how I felt when life was not at its greatest, and I could pick up a book and remove myself from any outside worries by becoming a part of the story. I think we all need an escape at times, and I hope I can do that for others.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

The glow you feel upon completion, but also the feeling you get when someone likes your work. It is quite euphoric.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The rejection letters and the reviewers that do not like your work is somewhat difficult. It is tough to put your all into something and have it rejected.  It is not always easy to remember that writing is subjective, not everyone likes everything, and we would not want that to be any different.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Don’t wait. Now is a wonderful time to write, and we are on a new frontier with self-publishing, so even if you don’t get the proverbial brass ring with an agent or publisher, there are more options than ever before.

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

I would say between 12-15 stories, many of them still in the works. I actually have a short holiday story called The Christmas Star as part of an Anthology called Christmas Lites coming out on November 25th, all proceeds from the book will go to charity. Sponsored, and put together by Creative Reviews on Good Reads, the event should be exciting.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I also read and write reviews, I enjoy visiting with friends and spending time with family.

Who is your favorite author?

I am enjoying the work of Laurel Dewey, she has a great detective series, with just a little paranormal thrown in.

What are some of your favorite books?

The Last Unicorn is one of my all-time favorites; I really enjoy the Mist born series, and the work by Kelly Armstrong. I also enjoy the Noah Bishop series.

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

Not very prolific. I have not met or found any writers closer than 50 miles away, and even there they are not yet serious and ready to move into print.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

I believe it has created a new dimension in reading, but not all the books are done well. I do think it has and will change the publishing community, they are very set in the types of books to look at and work with, and I believe that with both self-publishing and the Social media, those that are great writers can still be very successful without the full trappings of a book contract.

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

I follow the flow of my fingers. When I am writing I do not follow a process so much. The story flows and I am not sure where it is going. I am usually surprised at where the direction takes me. I have often tried to write work that is more contemporary and yet the paranormal seems to intrude.

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

I would like to be able to fly. I think it would be amazing.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I do, but then I believe in many things. Do I believe life on other planets is anything like our own, probably not.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I believe it depends on the book. Some of them adapt very well to movies, and others are a bit more difficult, creating too much of a difference to hold the same fans.

If you could have any first addition book.

Which would it be and why? Call of the Wild by Jack London. Jack London was one of the authors that fired my imagination as a child and one of the muses to my writing.

"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.