JOE MEADOWS
 JOE MEADOWS
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
I live in Venice, California. Your script or media entry stood out among hundreds of others. What was the inspiration for your project? This particular project draws from true events that took place in my life years ago when I was called back to the South to care for my elderly father. Afterward, I worked as an NGO volunteer in various countries. These experiences I wanted to share in a way that relates universally and connects us. How long did it take you to write your script or produce your pitch deck/sizzle reel/trailer...and what was your development process? I began this story over twenty years ago while witnessing the decline of my father’s health; experiencing the lack of care he received when the system gave up. Difficult, seemingly impossible family disagreements, medical decisions, inadequate insurance, indifferent medical staff and surgical errors, all play a role in this controversial and recognizable family drama. 
The deck itself took several months to finalize. It was my first attempt, and I discarded several drafts before landing on a structure that felt right. I spent time researching what makes a great pitch deck, and I found that simplicity is key. For the design, I used some of my photos as well as tools like Photoshop, Keynote, PowerPoint, Preview, and MidJourney; Photoshop being my go-to app for many years.
The process is simple when broken down to its basic element: Get people to share your reasons to make your film. What is your ultimate ambition as a writer or filmmaker? To make films that relate to audiences, and encourage them to reflect on their own life-choices and spirituality. |
"It's Only Life" : The Pitchdeck
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Which film directors or screenwriters inspire you? Why? · Stanley Kubrick: Kubrick had a unique vision; with an incredible ability to frame and structure a story. He knew how to mesmerize. His work always inspires me. · James Keach: I’ve had the privilege of working with James on three projects as an actor. His understanding of performers and the nuances of their motivations is exceptional. I believe Walk the Line is one of the best films I’ve ever seen. · Cory Geryak: Cory is a visionary and immensely talented cinematographer. Every frame of his work is captivating. I’m thrilled to have him directing this film. · Eric Roth: Eric’s screenplays, especially his Oscar-winning works, have been a huge inspiration for me. His gifted son, Alec Griffen Roth, is one of our producers and recently made his directorial debut with Billy Knight, written by Alec and starring Al Pacino. · James Dickey: Growing up near the river where Deliverance was filmed, I admire James Dickey’s ability to adapt his novels into screenplays. His gritty, powerful storytelling provides an audience with wonderful cringe-worthy moments. |
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
Full Metal Jacket is the likely choice. As a former Marine, I’m drawn to stories about Marine Corps boot camp, and Kubrick’s portrayal in this film is the closest to what I experienced at Parris Island in 1970. The authenticity and attention to detail are remarkable. What advice do you have for others hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have? Take your time. Dig deep and find the essence of what you wish to communicate. Be honest with yourself and have friends take a look. Get comments. Review examples. Use any tools you think will help. Remember, the goal of the deck is to get someone to read your script and invest their time and resources in your vision. What else are you working on that the world needs to know about? · Flash Card recently won Screenplay of the Year in Las Vegas. It’s a thriller about a broke, troubled veteran with an eidetic memory who accidentally stumbles upon a radical scientific breakthrough. Then suddenly North Korea and the CIA are both hunting him down in a life and death chase along the ramshackled Eastern seaboard. · Dreamgift is another screenplay in the works. It tells the story of an ordinary man who inherits an old Louisiana plantation and with it, the ability to invade others’ dreams and control them; a psychological, erotic thriller. More importantly, our small production company operates as a non-profit, dedicated to creating projects that promote humanitarian causes. We’ve contributed over one million dollars to charitable initiatives, and all donations are tax-deductible. Every project we take on focuses on communicating kindness and compassion; themes that bring us closer. Where can the world find you? (Website, IMDB, etc.) Stephen Meadows website: stephenmeadows.com On IMDb: Stephen Meadows Filmography It’s Only Life on IMDb: It's Only Life Screenplay Our non-profit: It's Only Life information |
