Interview with Screenwriter Albert Tevanyan (DWELLERS OF SUNSHINE GARDENS)

Matthew Toffolo: What is your screenplay about?

Albert Tevanyan: It’s about a prison break.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Thriller/Drama

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

It’s a prison break story with a very unique twist. It is highly suspenseful, full of action and is deeply meaningful and educational.

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

An upcoming head of state must negotiate an unconditional surrender with a ruthless warden of a gruesome prison stranded in the middle of snowy wilderness, must survive till rescued and choose between revenge and forgiveness.

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

The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly.

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

5 months

7. How many stories have you written?

I have written one sci/fi pilot, and two feature scripts.

8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)

What A Wonderful World /Louis Armstrong/

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

The main challenge was the ending. My protagonist was facing a major ethical dilemma having to chose between two options, both of which didn’t satisfy me. I found a unique, but controversial ending.

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

I’m a college professor and I’m passionate about teaching and discussing ideas with my students.

11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?

It is easy to use, well-organized and effective.

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

I wanted to get the first reaction to my newly finished screenplay, and I’m not disappointed.

Watch the Best Scene Reading:

Fly – Omar Aufi
Narration – Norma Dawn Dunphy
Freshman – Sean Ballantyne
Socrates – Shawn Devlin

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