Watch the Winning June 2016 Comedy Short Screenplay.

OZARK  by Craig Mrock

Narrator: Geoff Mays

Get to know the winning writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

It’s a scene from a full length screenplay I wrote called “Halloween in Ozark” about Halloween in a small town. In this scene, one of the main characters, Roger, takes a chance at sitting next to the girl he’s madly in love with, Brittany. Of course, even the simplest of actions don’t happen easily when average teens experience such intense emotions, so the scene plays with that moment.

2. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

This particular scene addresses both the internal and external, environmental aspects of a moment in time. While many of us could relate to this situation through our own experiences, only a movie can smoothly and accurately show the various perspectives that embody a moment like this while capturing the right levels of humor, intentions, and emotions of the people involved as they happen.

3. How would you describe this script in two words?

“Real life” maybe??

4. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

Tough call, probably something by John Hughes, maybe Uncle Buck or Breakfast Club?

5. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

“Halloween in Ozark” has been an idea of mine for a few years. I initially wrote up an outline and several scenes a few years back and always had the intention of writing a funny story with an element of spook and a bit of teen raunchiness. Think John Waters combining Scary Movie and American Pie. There are several small stories involved that come together in the end and I think there are characters that appeal to everyone as most teen movies include.

6. How many stories have you written?

Tons, since I was a little kid. I’m most proud of my recent works (you can find here http://mworldentertainment.wordpress.com/ ) but the nice part about creating things is they’re only finished when you say they are.

7. What motivated you to write this screenplay?

A moment in a grocery store around Halloween that spiraled into an entire picture of the holiday in a small town.

8. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

This screenplay started with several scenes and ideas that needed to be fleshed out and strung together. As things developed in their own way, other scenes became more important and character development really started to factor in. The editing for this was probably the biggest challenge in the end.

9. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

Playing music, traveling, being outdoors, and working my way into a career in writing and out of one that just provides a paycheck.

10. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?

I’m looking to get my name and work out there and I’ve been following the festival on social media for some time. It seemed like a good thing to try and it’s been a positive experience so far.

11. Any advice or tips you’d like to pass on to other writers?

Aside from the typical “never stop writing” advice, just remember the importance of details and editing.

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Director/Producer: Matthew Toffolo

Editor: John Johnson

Casting Director: Sean Ballantyne