Part 1.

I knew I wanted to be screenwriter........

after viewing so many great films at the theatre and on TV and being fascinated by every aspect of filmmaking - but most importantly the genesis of a film that begins with the screenplay.

I know I've succeeded when........ 

when I'm not only satisfied with the quality of my work but it's also appealing to others, and marketable.
 

My inspiration to write Nikita Sergeyevich.....

stems from my interest in historical adaptations. And after the success of the Margaret Thatcher bio The Iron Lady, a screenplay about Khrushchev just seemed like it was begging to be written.

Part 2.

FilmMakers Magazine: What inspired you to write?

Robert J. McCrea: I was inspired to write when after seeing so many movies I would often just doodle ideas for a film for fun. Finally I thought why not learn how to write a screenplay and start doing my own scripts. I took writing classes, attended seminars, read scripts by others, and started writing screenplays. And haven't stopped.

FilmMakers Magazine: Is this your first script and how long did it take you to complete?

Robert J. McCrea: Nikita Sergeyevich was not my first script. It took over a year to write as I got pulled away to do re-writes on a couple of other script projects.

FilmMakers Magazine: Do you have a set routine, place and time management for writing?

Robert J. McCrea: The place and time management of my writing routine is very flexible, but the focus during the project is very strict. I may only spend an hour or two each day typing up pages but during the rest of the day I think about nothing else but the script. And I carry a notepad around with me always and everywhere to jot down any ideas that may come up.

FilmMakers Magazine: Do you believe screenplay contests are important for aspiring screenwriters and why?

Robert J. McCrea: Screenplay contests are important in providing the writer a vehicle to display his art as well as viewing the talents of fellow writers.

FilmMakers Magazine: What influenced you to enter the FilmMakers International Screenwriting Awards / Screenplay Contest?

Robert J. McCrea: I was influenced to enter the Filmmakers International because it is not only a prestigious festival but features participation by screenwriters from around the world. I also thought it would be a good forum for Nikita Sergeyevich.

FilmMakers Magazine: What script would you urge aspiring writers to read and why?

Robert J. McCrea: The script I would urge aspiring writers to read is Chinatown. It has the perfect blend of a compelling story, great characters, and drama rising to a terrific climax.

FilmMakers Magazine: Beside screenwriting what are you passionate about and why?

Robert J. McCrea: Beside screenwriting I am a passionate fan of golf. I can't play it but I love watching the pros. When my TV is on I'm either watching a movie or a golf tournament.

FilmMakers Magazine: Who is your favorite Screenwriter and Why?

Robert J. McCrea: My favorite screenwriter is Woody Allen. I am totally amazed and jealous of his genius. He requires so little detail to completely flesh out his characters and his best scripts are both sad and funny at the same time. He must have bought his writing talent at the same store where Mozart shopped.

FilmMakers Magazine: Name the director you would love to work with and why?

Robert J. McCrea: Fortunately I already had the opportunity to work on a film with one of my favorite directors Sidney Lumet before he passed away. The director I would most like to work with currently is Martin Scorsese. Each and every scene in his films seems so gripping, and I would be confidant that anything I wrote he would film even better than it reads.

FilmMakers Magazine: Name the actor you would love to work with and why?

Robert J. McCrea: Years ago the actor I would have loved to work with was Dustin Hoffman because of the range of characters he would portray, seemingly effortlessly. Currently I think the same applies to Kevin Spacey. He would be perfect for Nikita Sergeyevich.

FilmMakers Magazine: Any tips and things learned along the way to pass on to others?

Robert J. McCrea: The one tip I would give to anyone in the writing biz is never to take rejection personally. And never quit. Many of the industry's greatest screenwriters received tons of rejections before they made it to the top.