Alan R. Baxter
2016-09-03 12:00
SHRIEKFEST INTERVIEW
Alan R. Baxter
Screenwriter
2006/2007/2014 Screenplay Finalist & 2015 Screenplay Semi-Finalist
What is your name, company name, and URL?
Alan R. Baxter, http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1433225/
What is your specialty: filmmaking or screenwriting? If filmmaking, which aspects?
Screenwriting. More specifically, writing for television.
What are you currently working on?
A thriller/mystery series set in a small rural town in Florida. Think True Detective meets The Killing.
Who do you consider your mentor and why?
Irvin Paik. He was an assistant editor on the show, "ER." At the time, I was a post PA and eager to learn the ins-and-outs of editing. He went above and beyond to teach me, including meeting up outside of work. I will never forget his kindness and generosity
Why do you think the horror/sci-fi genres have such a large following?
Sometimes the real-life horrors are too much to handle. These genres allow people a safe way to tap into these fears and be entertained.
What do you love most about this business?
I love the shared enthusiasm and passion for film and TV
What do you dislike most about this business?
People who talk the talk, yet don't have anything to back it.
What career accomplishment are you most proud of?
My reps took out my pilot and I had a bunch of meetings at companies. For my first meeting, I remember sitting in the lobby and just admiring all the posters: Terminator 2, Aliens, The Walking Dead. I thought to myself, "This is pretty freakin' cool."
Any advice you'd like to give to newbies?
Join a writers group. It really forces you to push yourself and hone your craft. Plus, everyone is really supportive.
Anything else you'd like to say?
Don't forget to live life. Spend time with your family, travel and meet new people.