| Exclusive interview with Sunny Mohajer – Screenwriter |
NY Glam: What projects are you currently working on?
I’m currently in prep for the short film Ataraxia, which I wrote and am directing. I was one of the recipients of the BC Arts Council grant for this short film. And I’m very lucky to be working with very talented people in Vancouver, BC. The script has come a long way and I’m very excited to finally bring it to life. It’s the story of a couple who are trapped in a surreal hotel purgatory that neither of them can escape from unless if they both comes to terms with their relationship ending.
I am also currently working on a second draft of my second feature script Stayin’ Alive and work shopping my first feature script The Girls.
NY Glam: What makes a film great for you? Are there certain qualities that make a film better for you?
I love a variety of themes and genres. I enjoy a good dark comedy, coming-of-age stories or surreal/experimental dramas as well. I like any story that features complex character studies. It’s important for a film to be real, authentic and do a deep dive of whatever stories or thematics it’s exploring.
NY Glam: As a screenwriter, what is the most important aspect of building a character?
I like flawed characters. I find characters with flaws to be more human and relatable. Characters who may or may not be self-aware at first but go through circumstances that force them to be honest with themselves and work on their growth and progress.
NY Glam: Top 3 favorite projects that you have been involved in?
The short film that I’m currently prepping has definitely been one of the highlights of my career so far. I have gone through a long process of pitching it for different grants in various settings, in front of a room full of people to a big audience in a theatre. It’s been very rewarding.
My first feature script The Girls, exploring the reunion of a 90’s girl group, has also been an amazing experience. From spending hours and hours at cafes, working on this project to hosting various cold reads with talented actors, it’s been through a few revisions. I have learned a lot in the process and am very excited to continue the process of workshopping it to make sure it’s the best possible version.
NY Glam: Do you express yourself creatively in any other ways?
I’ve always been looking for different projects to express myself creatively. Writing has always been my main outlet. From writing novels, plays to screenplays. My love of directing came naturally from my desire to tell stories.
NY Glam: What advice would you give to someone who wants to have a career in filmmaking?
I’m still working on my journey and am very excited for what’s yet to come. My advice to anyone on this creative path in life is to realize that everyone’s journey is different. You have to find your own path and stick with it. The important thing is that you love what you do and work on your craft and never give up.
NY Glam: What can we expect from you in 2020?
The completion of my short film Ataraxia. I’m looking for funding for my other short scripts: Joe is Alive and Hope is the Thing with Feathers.
NY Glam: Where can everyone keep up with you to learn more? …social media…website
My company Luna Creatives: www.lunacreatives.ca
My company’s instagram: @luna.creatives
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