1. What is your screenplay about?
It’s a mainstream same-sex love story-with a closeted teen football star stumbling into his first love with a teen “old-soul” surfer. The story shows how they both grow and adapt to their new reality.
2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Drama, Romance, Sports, LGBTQ, Family, Coming of Age
3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
To not inly serve LGBTQ teens, showing positive images, but also to help lift up the collective consciousness with characters that run against usual stereotypes, hopefully opening hearts and minds.
4. How would you describe this script in two words?
Speak truth!
5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
Historically, probably The Wizard Of Oz. š
6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
I originally wrote this semi-autobiographical screenplay 30 years ago, as a means of self-therapy. At the time, LGBTQ stories weren’t easily received, but thankfully times have changed.
7. How many stories have you written?
This is my only screenplay. I am also a songwriter/composer, and have written plenty of mini stories in the form of songs.
8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
Kenny Loggins has a somewhat obscure song called “Wait A Little While.” It has helped me sustain hope over the years.
9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
Honestly-not many obstacles-I was passionate about the story, knew it well since I lived it-and enjoyed the process. The obstacles come with finding others to share my voision, at least those who can help to bring it to frution. I’m grateful to have received accolades from script competitions (like yours), but being produced is the goal.
10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
Music, songwriting, acting, health/fitness, reading, spiritual growth, constant learning, meditation
11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
They are good, It’s a way to stay organized in one place.
12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I’m always grateful to get positive feedback, and especially to know it resonates with someone. Because you are a Romance and Relationship Festival, I figured my story, even if on the margin being LGBTQ, is still a human story about love and romance. I was surprised and flattered by the scene reading,
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 