Part 1.

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

As a small child, before I went to bed at night, I would adjust the buttons on my quilted headboard bed to "dial in" movies. In my head, I would write my own shows. I’ve always visualized everything as a movie.
 

I know I've succeeded........ 

I'm nominated for an Oscar.

My inspiration to write FOUR DAYS IN MAY.....

Were the actual events between May 1-4, 1970. I grew up in Kent, and my father worked at the university. I watched the Army ROTC building burning from my bedroom window. The intense conflict of these few days and the years to follow have always haunted me.

Part 2.

FilmMakers Magazine: What inspired you to write?

Beth Shaughnessy: 1.What inspired you to write? I’ve always been a storyteller; writing came naturally.

FilmMakers Magazine: How did you prepare yourself to write your first script?

Beth Shaughnessy: The first step I took was research. I researched the actual events and read many first hand accounts. I wrote my first draft and hated it. I realized I needed to learn the actual mechanics of screenplay writing. This lead me to continuing education.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: Yes, this is my first script. I started it about four years ago and then gave up. I knew I was lacking proper format. I then had the opportunity to attend Full Sail University. I receive my Masters degree in Creative Writing. My screenplay was part of my final portfolio.

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

Beth Shaughnessy:  I try to write in the morning. However, some of my best writing is done in the middle of the night. I will type in notes on my Iphone and then cut and paste them the next day into my script. I go to the beach and float in the water and contemplate new ideas. The peace and quiet helps me get into the world of my script.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: Yes, I believe screenplay contests that provide feedback are very important. Feedback is the key to improving a script.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: As any struggling screenwriter knows, it’s expensive to enter contests. I entered Filmmakers International Screenwriting Awards because of the opportunity for exposure to professionals in the industry. I also liked the idea of additional feedback on my script.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: Chinatown is a “must read” for aspiring writers. Its riveting plot takes well-developed characters through gripping twists and turns. It’s a great template for writing.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: My family is my passion. Take away everything and I would still be happy, with just my family. They inspire me.

FilmMakers Magazine: Who is your favorite Screenwriter and Why?

Beth Shaughnessy: I’m a hopeless romantic, so I love Nora Ephron. I believe she will always remain one of the giants in a male dominated industry.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: I would love to work with Martin Scorsese because he's the best.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: I would love to work with Kevin Spacey because he is so versatile. He can play the lovable protagonist or the diabolical antagonist. I have always seen him as the college professor in my screenplay, so when I write, I hear his voice.

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

Beth Shaughnessy: Take any feedback with a grain of salt. Use what you feel actually works. Not all advice will fit with your image of your story. Also, don't take offense to constructive comments. They may hold the potential key to your next revision. .

FilmMakers Magazine: What's next for you?

Beth Shaughnessy: Next, I plan to complete another screenplay.

FilmMakers Magazine: Where will you be five years from now?

Beth Shaughnessy: The best thing about writing is you can do it anywhere. So, in five years, I will be floating in the Gulf of Mexico contemplating my next screenplay.