CAST LIST:

Will – Geoff Mays
NARRATION – Hugh Ritchie
Pammy – Julie C. Sheppard
Frank – Sean Ballantyne

Get to know the writer:

 1. What is your screenplay about?

My screenplay, ‘The Show To Die For’ is primarily about a loving family (Mother, Father and Son) who are being torn apart by the news that the Mom has only 6 months to live. The husband lost his job 2 years ago and with no health insurance, their savings have been completely depleted by Mom’s ongoing medical treatments.
Juxtaposed to this almost perfect relationship, is that of a selfish, egoistical chauvinist TV talk show host, who drinks, frequents strip clubs and has a failing chat show.
When an aging Senator collapses and dies on the show the grab goes viral and the TV company management recognizes the birth of a new genre of shows. Death by suicide on live TV for a cash award, signed over to the choice of person or persons elected by the suicide victim.
When the Mom learns of the offer she applies, is accepted and under the protection of the Physician Assisted Suicide Bill (legal in her state), she tells her doting son and husband that she will die with dignity, without pain and provide much needed money for her family. Needless to say, the two guys are vehemently against the plan but Mom is determined to take this exit strategy, with jaw dropping consequences.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

The main genre is Drama but it does include some humor and tense in many sequences.

3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

I lived through a very similar situation as a teenager and still suffer from the terrible sights I saw and how my Father was destroyed by the whole process. So, educating people that it is not only the sick person that suffers but other family members need counseling is paramount. Also, the real and pertinent fact that the family has no health plan. This is a situation that many families have found themselves facing and they will totally relate to the family concerned.
Last, the scoundrel of a TV host is someone you just hate. That is until he performs one redeeming act and the whole ‘hater’ emotion dissipates and something else inexplicably takes it’s place.

4. How would you describe this script in two words?

Powerfully emotional.

5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

Raging Bull. That is the story of my family!

6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

Emotionally 40 years. Writing, 3 years.

7. How many stories have you written?

That’s hard to say. I have had MOW’s and shorts produced (The Southern Belle (Short), still available on Youtube being my biggest success so far) and have many scripts available for perusal. I just love writing.

8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)

Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding. A story of despair but the genius of the lyrics and the talent of Redding leads us to believe that the subject has at least found peace. It is fantastic and never grows old.

9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

I guess the same that many other people face. Work, family, just day to day responsibilities. But on a personal level I found it very difficult writing about myself (son) and the bravery of the Mom (my Mother).

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

I am passionate about my family, my painting, my poetry, martial arts and work!

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Producer: Matthew Toffolo http://www.matthewtoffolo.com

Director: Kierston Drier
Casting Director: Sean Ballantyne
Editor: John Johnson

Camera Operator: Mary Cox