Project Type: Feature Screenplay
Genres: Drama, Romance, LGBTQ

This gripping drama is set in 21st century Brooklyn, New York, wherein Talia, a young Orthodox Jewish woman strategizes how to subtly conceal her perceptible bruises before disrobing and immersing herself into a Mikvah, a Jewish ritual bath.

drnavasilton.com/

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

My screenplay is about a young, Orthodox Jewish woman named Talia, who finally breaks free from harrowing domestic abuse and reclaims her true sexual identity and life purpose.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Drama, Faith/Religion, LGBTQIA

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

This film addresses a variety of taboos in a sensitive way and it has an authenticity to it, since it's written by someone who is a part of and very familiar with Orthodox Judaism. While the film is intended to be viewed by the general public, I would imagine it might be particularly helpful and meaningful to those who struggle with how their religious and sexual identities can often conflict. It also gives a strong voice to those who are vicitimized by physical, sexual and domestic abuse; those who often feel silenced.

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

Deep, inspirational

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

Pretty Woman

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

I started it during the pandemic

7. How many stories have you written?

This is my fourth screenplay and I currently have TV shows in development with the Jim Henson Company, LeVar Burton Entertainment, Two Shakes Entertainment and Neptune Studios.

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

Madonna's La Isla Bonita!

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

The story really wrote itself; it had been in my head for a while. Often the hardest part is determining what feedback to take from reviewers and what to keep from the original screenplay. I also always love a good happy ending, so creating conflict in a story is sometimes difficult, I just want everyone to get along and be happy-especially in the end! ;)

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

I have seven children, so I am clearly passionate about kids! ;)
I am also a Psychology Professor at a University and a Mental Health Professional at my kids' school. But beyond that, I love creating TV, film and tabletop games for children and adults. I am currently working on my fifth game.

11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your
experiences working with the submission platform site?

It's been a wonderful platform. All four of my screenplays have really received a lot of attention, astute feedback and lovely awards - so that is really nice to see. It is very user-friendly and I would highly recommend it to others.

12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?

Attaining feedback is always invaluable and I so appreciated the opportunity.