Interview with Screenwriter Brian Pluchinsky (ONI)

WATCH the Winning Screenplay Reading

1. What is your screenplay about?

A mythological story set in feudal Japan that follows a brother and sister and their masked guardian. They venture out west in search of protection and vengeance against the demon who murdered their grandfather and caretaker. Along the way, they encounter various demons and skilled warriors who appear to share a similar backstory to their masked guardian.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Fantasy, Adventure, Drama

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

I feel that western film making is so used to making fantasy based on the western medieval era. Films and series like Game of Thrones, Robin Hood, Lord of the Rings are just some examples. But we rarely see other cultures used as influences. And Japanese mythology is filled with potential. Samurai, Folklore, Demons, Deities, Myths, and the beautiful landscape of Japan. All of this can be used to create a unique experience for a fantasy film based on Japanese mythology, especially for a western audience.

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

Unique & Addictive

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

I would say Star Wars or Lord of the Rings are my most watched movie series but in terms of a single movie, it would probably be the Dark Knight. I always found characters more interesting than the plot and Heath Ledger’s Joker is one of the most captivating performances I have ever seen.

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

This screenplay took me about six months to complete. The creative process took longer than the writing process for me since I had just started working in my first job after graduating from college and found myself mentally exhausted at times.

7. How many stories have you written?

As of now, I have written five scripts and one pilot episode script. It honestly started as an addiction where I would come up with a story in my head and have to write it down to help clear my mind. And it always feels great to go back to your first stories and still find work for improvement even after editing them five times.

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

I grew up listening to rock, hip hop, and rap. However, recently I’ve grown to respect the classics. My dad is a big Frank Sinatra fan so naturally, the older you get the more you can appreciate the music your parents listen to. I would say that Frank Sinatra’s My Way would probably be my favorite as the lyrics speak to me with doing things your way rather than the normal way.

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

The biggest obstacle I faced was starting my first desk job after college while working on a script at the same time. Having an 8-5 job is a necessity most of us go through, and I am lucky to have one. But I would constantly find my mental state exhausted after work which would slow down the creative process of coming up with the ideas for my script. In the end I felt that it was a positive experience as it helped me learn to balance the use of my time more efficiently.

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

During my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies/shows, and playing video games. Basically, any form of storytelling either through writing or visualizations. There is just something special about briefly escaping from reality, to immerse yourself in the world that is beautifully crafted in front of you.

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

My experience has been great on FilmFreeway. The platform is a great way to take a gauge where your writing stands in a competition. In addition, and more importantly, there is opportunity to obtain valuable constructive criticism. Creativity is only as good as the last draft, so having multiple professionals review your work is the best way to improve your writing.

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

I was searching through contests and found this contest to be unique. Most contests I could find are broad and allow any genres to be entered. Therefore, when I found the Fantasy Sci-Fi Festival, I was excited to submit my script along with others who shared a passion for this genre that so many of us grew up with and still love to this day.