MovieBytes Interview:
Screenwriter Cara Rothenberg

An interview with screenwriter Cara Rothenberg regarding the Wildsound/TV Writing Competition.

Cara Rothenberg

A: The title of my Parenthood spec script is "Don't Give up on him Yet." It takes place in the fifth season of the show, which is the season that just recently came to an end. Adam and Kristina are skeptical of a girl who seems interested in Max, while a visit from Hank's sister gets Sarah thinking about giving their romance another try. Amber makes an unlikely friend, and Crosby's true feelings about Joel and Julia's separation come to light.

A: I entered this contest because I wanted feedback from people who were really going to be honest with me, and I also wanted the opportunity to hear and see my script read by actors. I never expected I would have that opportunity with a spec script, so I decided to go for it.

A: I was very satisfied with the administration of this contest. They were prompt in getting back to me, and the video of the table read of my script was posted in a timely fashion.

A: From first draft to final draft, it took me about two months to write this script. I did write a brief outline beforehand, just so I could get an idea of where I wanted each story to go before I actually got down to writing the script. I wrote about four drafts of this particular script.

A: I exclusively use Final Draft for every script that I write.

A: I wish I could say I write every day, but my job doesn't really permit me to do so. I would say I write anywhere from two to four times a week.

A: Yes, I would imagine that every writer does. I try not to force it. I'll go do something else that has nothing to do with writing, and usually that's when I come up with an idea.

A: I'm 23 years old, and I graduated with a degree in television and film two years ago. I currently work at a post production house in NYC. So as of right now, I really don't have a professional background in writing scripts of any kind. But that is certainly the goal.

A: I don't live in LA...yet. I still live at home in New Jersey for financial reasons, but I plan on venturing off to the West Coast as soon as I possibly can.

A: I am working on a sitcom pilot and a sitcom spec as well. I want to be able to show prospective agents that I have range and that I'm not married to writing dramas. Being funny is tough, and I might end up being really bad at it, but I have to at least try.

Posted Tuesday, June 10, 2014