Meet the Finalist: Janet Walker, "The Wednesday Killer"
What inspired you to become a screenwriter?
My journey to becoming a screenwriter began with my desire to be a great American novelist. For about two years I explained to my sister, Debbie Walker, that I was a writer. And finally, she explained, gently, “writer’s write.” So, my journey, of pen to paper, began then. For many years that followed my writing was abbreviated creative shorts, ideas that just didn’t become fully fleshed out. So, I decided to take a college creative writing course, which led to a journalism pursuit and where I began pursuing other writing genres, from creative writing to journalistic pursuits to poetry and journals, movie reviews, and now screenplays.
For me, the pandemic provided the missing element needed to concentrate fully on screenwriting. The lockdown allowed me to devote 100% of my time to developing an idea that had been simmering for about for a decade. I took an online class and it helped clarify the specifics of what I felt were areas of weakness.
I often joke that my first screenplay, “The Six Sides of Truth,” took 10 years and three months to complete. After that, as I felt like anyone can write one screenplay, I felt personally challenged to write a second screenplay, which is “The Wednesday Killer.”
Navigating the world of the traditional studio system is challenging. I’ve had access to studio publicity opportunities having been fortunate to be credentialed for media events, including credentials for the Academy Awards Day of Show winner’s room on four separate occasions. However, switching lanes can be a bit of a challenge which is where I am currently.
What's is your all time favorite film? Why is it special to you?
All time favorite, that's a challenge. I'll go with my top three - "The Godfather", "Goodfellows" and "Scarface."
What tips would you give aspiring filmmakers who are just starting their careers?
Have a practical profession to supplement the dry seasons, be consistent, don't give up, develop thick skin and a sense of humor and most importantly don't take everyone's opinion to heart, it can be incapacitating.
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Tags: 7th Annual New York Film Awards 2023
