Interview with Screenwriter Ricardo Fleshman (KILLING MOSES)

Matthew Toffolo: What is your screenplay about?

Ricardo Fleshman: Killing Moses is the account of New Orleans Private Detective Moses Byone and his search to understand the death of a wealthy white lawyer, Jefferson Collingwood, who perished in the fire that consumed the Upstairs Lounge in the summer of 1973. During his investigation Moses meets Creole voodoo priestess, Lisette St. Germain, who is being pursued by the dark and sinister Alexis Beaureparie and henchman Christophe, who are in search of the mysterious silver box she possesses. Moses forges an unlikely alliance with his primary source of information, effeminate antiques dealer Armond Fontenot and also with Lisette as he seeks to protect her from harm. What Moses uncovers about the silver box and Alexis and Jefferson Collingwood’s involvement are enough to make him Alexis’ next target for murder.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Mystery/Thriller

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

The story is quite original. The elements of voodoo, betrayal, and murder in the 1970s Crescent City are treated not as cliche but as enticements for the audience to draw them deeper into the mystery as Moses seeks to unearth the truths hidden behind all of the deception. It is a tribute to detective/noir stories.

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

Beautifully dark.

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

The Maltese Falcon.

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

2 years.

7. How many stories have you written?

More than 50 stories, 8 shorts novels, 3 screenplays.

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

Superstition- Stevie Wonder

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

The city of New Orleans, particularly in 1973, is such an integral part of this work. Capturing those important, vital elements of the city- of the Vieux Carre- in Moses and the supporting characters was challenging. I hope I did it justice.

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

Food, Art (classic works) and music. Blues and jazz.

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

FilmFreeway has been such a wonderful platform to work with and I am glad that it exists. Now that FilmFreeway Gold exists I will use it for many of my future submissions.

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

This festival was a natural fit for Killing Moses. The feedback I received exceeded my expectations and I took it all to heart. The recommendations were extremely helpful to making this screenplay read/flow so much better and I am a better writer for it.