McKnight Fellowship for Screenwriters Finalist: Matt Osterman
Q: What genre do you typically write or do you dabble in many? How many scripts have you completed?
A: I don’t know…dark dramedies, perhaps? It’s tough to say because most of my scripts don’t fall squarely into a specific genre all that well.
Phasma Ex Machina is sort of a mysterious supernatural thriller family drama sci-fi with touches of humor haunted house movie. Maybe I’m the wrong person to ask… However, I’m positive that I’ve written 3 features and 6 shorts. I think.
Q: What is the plot of your script and what inspired it?
A: It’s about a young man making the realization that science and the supernatural don’t have to be mutually exclusive. And, as you can imagine, complications ensue.
The “unknown” as subject matter is infinitely intriguing and I really wanted to dig deep into the science of the paranormal. All the while
fully knowing that it would only serve as the Trojan horse to get to the meat of the story – the interactions between brothers who have each
other and a husband and wife who don’t.
Q: Have you already started your next project? If so, what is it about?
A: I’m actually gearing up to direct Phasma Ex Machina in the fall, so I’ve been busy re-writing and pre-producing.
Q: What has been your experience of being a screenwriter in the Twin Cities?
A: Writing is such a solitary endeavor that the cold winters and abundance of good coffee shops makes Minnesota a decent locale. I haven’t really tried the screenwriting groups or anything, but I’m sure they can be worthwhile. Also, programs like the McKnight, organizations like IFP, the abundance of great actors, and the indie film community really help.
Q: What are some resources (films, books, classes, inspiration) you would suggest for other aspiring screenwriters?
A: I would suggest using books and classes to learn how to properly format. Everything else comes with putting words on a page.
Q: Do you outline your story before you begin or let it take shape as you write?
A: I usually plot out the entire film as an outline and then follow it religiously as I write my first draft. After the first draft I tend to explore and flesh out new ideas.
Q: How are you spending your time while waiting for the announcement of the winners in June?
A: Hiring cast and crew, finding locations, begging for money, and re-writing. It’s really glamorous.
Q: Some final (fun) questions: If you won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, who would you
thank first in your acceptance speech?
A: I desperately don’t want to answer this question in fear of hubristic punishment, but I’d be stupid if I didn’t mention my wife Sarah. She’s
pretty cool. I should also mention my deep gratitude to the Phasma production team up to this point. Jennifer Kramer, Kerry Armbruster, Andrew Cahak, Dhruv Hemmady, and Adam Honzl have all been unbelievably amazing.
What are your top three favorite films?
For some reason, I’ve never been able to answer that question. However, I’m a huge fan of two local films, Sweet Land and The Hagstone Demon, by Ali Selim and Jon Springer respectively. They couldn’t be more different, but both are genius in their own way.
Anything else you’d like to share?
We do have a website and blog where people can get more information, follow along with the production, and get involved.
Check it out at phasmamovie.com.
June 4th, 2009 at 3:40 pm
[...] one achievement out of several that point to the fact that the film is headed for great things. Osterman was one of seven nominees for the McKnight Fellowship for Screenwriters last year for the Phasma script. And when they put [...]
June 4th, 2009 at 9:51 pm
[...] one achievement out of several that point to the fact that the film is headed for great things. Osterman was one of seven nominees for the McKnight Fellowship for Screenwriters last year for the Phasma script. And when they put [...]