MIKE FITZER
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Louisville, KY How did you discover The Palm Springs International Screenplay Awards and how did you decide to enter this contest among all the others? I found the festival through Film Freeway and decided to enter because there aren’t many reputable contests for pitch decks and sizzle reels. Your fest gets great reviews so I figured I would give it a go! Your script or media entry stood out among hundreds of others. What was the inspiration for your project ? Still Perfect is based on a true story. I directed a short documentary about that story several years ago and knew that I wanted a larger audience for it than what my short doc could deliver, so I bought the life rights and developed the package. 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 spent several months fine tuning the deck. As for the sizzle reel, six weeks planning an overseas shoot; casting, scouting, hiring crew, etc. The filming took a day and then another week in post. The screenplay took two years, but it has been well worth the effort. The story, characters, and theme shine through. It’s a tough subject, but there is hope in the end. What is your ultimate ambition as a writer or filmmaker? I have enjoyed a 30-year career in film, much of it as a DP. However, I recently graduated with my MFA in screenwriting and am entertaining this next phase of my career where, in addition to working as a filmmaker, I hope to teach and inspire the next generation of storytellers. Which film directors or screenwriters inspire you? Why? I’ve always been a fan of Roger Deakins (who isn’t?), Luc Besson, Alex Cox, The Coen brothers, Frank Darabont, and Martin Scorsese. Those are always at the top of the list, but there are many, many great filmmakers that I draw inspiration from all the time. It’s a wonderful industry! What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show? My all-time favorite film is Goodfellas. A perfect blend of non-linear storytelling with gorgeous cinematography, superb acting, editing, and a music score you can leave on repeat. Other favorites include Sid & Nancy, La Femme Nakita, and more recently Bo Burnham’s Eighth Grade, which I felt was a riveting, authentic portrayal of adolescence. As for television… It’s the new golden age! There’s so much to love. I recently stumbled upon Stephen Merchant’s “The Outlaws” on Prima and have been binging that series. Fun, incredible stuff! How do you approach competition entries, and what have you learned from participating in these contests? I was given a great bit of advice from a friend at Tribeca who said he chooses festivals based on the following criteria, in order of importance: 1) It must be Oscar-qualifying 2) It should be in a city he wants to visit 3) If he has friends there who can offer a free place to stay... he goes there. I follow that advice, but I also think if a fest or contest doesn’t fit that criteria but is particularly well-organized with good reviews and the opportunity for press, I will invest my time and money. I have learned the hard way that many “festivals” aren’t festivals at all. They are services that take money in exchange for a laurel. There’s no event, no press, no communication. So, I tell people to do your research and choose wisely. If there’s a fest that doesn’t meet your list, yet still speaks to you… go for it. What advice do you have for others hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have? While rejection isn’t personal, it can feel that way, so if you’re someone who measures even a little of your self-worth by the job you do and the prizes you win or don’t win… look for something outside of the industry to focus on while also perfecting your craft as a filmmaker. What else are you working on that the world needs to know about? There are a few exciting films I’m slated to DP in 2026. As with all indies, it’s dependent on securing the rest of the financing, but at least I’m at the stage in my career where my name is on the list, and that is nice. Additionally, a screenplay I authored during my MFA called Music Therapy has been picked up, and production is slated for June of 2026. I’m part of a few other very big initiatives which I can’t comment on just yet, but the ink is drying. Most importantly… I’m looking forward to my daughter’s wedding in England this October. Making films is amazing, but family is everything. Where can the world find you? (Website, IMDB, etc.) You can find my company 180 Degrees |
