Haik Hakobian

ALSO ON SITE

1. What is your screenplay about?

The story is about an arrogant young woman who must learn humility. Inheriting a run-down auto repair shop is just the ticket.

2. Why did you decide to write this screenplay?

I wrote this screenplay because I have worked as an auto mechanic and shop owner for thirty years. I thought our industry deserved some attention.

3. How long have you been writing screenplays?

I have been writing screenplays for sixteen years.

4. What is you all-time favorite film? (name only one)

Lawrence of Arabia is my favorite film.

5. What artist in the film industry would you love to work with?

Anthony Hopkins. Russel Crowe.

6. How many screenplays have you written?

Three

7. Ideally, where would you like to be in 5 years?

In five years I'd like to be working as a writer/director in the film industry.

8. Describe your process; do you have a set routine, method for writing?

Every morning I get up at 6:30, make my girlfriend breakfast, and once she's off to work, I write from 8:00 to 10:00, then I go off to work as mechanic/ owner of Haik's German Autohaus. Weekends I write for several hours. I usually start my stories with a setting, a time and place, concept. I usually don't start with a plot or a character. I care more about the central idea.

9. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

I am passionate about classical music and opera. I love wonderfully played instruments and passion. I love music.

10. What influenced you to enter the WILDsound Script Contest?

I heard about WILDsound from a friend.

11. Any advice or tips you’d like to pass on to other writers?

Since I am not yet a success, I don't claim any knowledge about the industry. I've just had seventy rejections from agents and production companies; all but three wouldn't even read a page. I guess my advice is, satisfy yourself. Find a style that is yours and have faith in it. Write the story you want, and hope it's what they want. If it doesn't sell, at least you have a work of your own personal expression.

Haik Hakobian, Haik Hakobian