Diane M. Johnson

What is your name, company name, and URL?

My name is Diane M. Johnson, no company name, and my website is www.autumnblood.com -or- www.dianemjohnson.com

What is your specialty: filmmaking or screenwriting? If filmmaking, which aspects?

I'm a screenwriter.

What are you currently working on?

I'm currently working on polishing a couple of TV scripts for the WB Writers Workshop, reworking a feature spec and finishing a spec of a Cartoon Network show. I guess you could say I'm trying to broaden my palette to include more than features.

Why do you think the horror/sci-fi genres have such a large following?

There are too many reasons to count. I read somewhere on the Internet that horror movies arouse us, make our hearts beat faster and therefore burn more calories. So, there's that. I'm all for burning calories.

LOL. I've read that people who watch horror are healthier...interesting huh? What do you love most about this business?

I love the fact that horror has expanded in scope. You can have a light zombie comedy like Warm Bodies alongside a serious, thought provoking zombie drama series like The Walking Dead. The horror genre -the horror business- isn't just about the cheap thrill anymore. It can be about deeper themes, more complex characters. And the genre is taken far more seriously than it was taken in its infancy.

It really is great that horror is becoming more main steam with shows like The Walking Dead. What do you dislike most about this business?

I am easily defined as a recluse. I am not the best at self promotion, so thank you for this opportunity!

Any advice you'd like to give to newbies?

Learn how to network. Learn how to self promote. It makes a huge difference. I think I'd be much farther along in my writing career if I worked more at it.

Self promotion really is a big deal, you have to force yourself to do it, you really do. Anything else you'd like to say?

I wish I could say I had something in production. Instead, I'd like to promote a friend's project in production if I can. It's a short drama called The Dead Kid. I encourage everyone to look for it. Just google it. I've read the script, I've seen a rough cut. It addresses bullying. Just look for it... You're welcome, Greg Goyins.

LOL. Diane, it was great catching up! Thank you!