First Place
THE MONKS OF MEPKIN ABBEY
By Fred Paskiewicz
Victorville, California
Occupation: Video Editor
Email: fredweb@charter.net
Logline: Fear of losing his monastery to the city's rising crime wave, Brother Lloyd equips his brothers with weapons rather than prayers only to realize they've created a bigger mess and uncovered a sinister plot which only God Himself can prevent.

How did you come up with the idea for your screenplay?

The idea came from a Christian comedian who invented a quirky monk character named Brother Bob. Soon after, I started toying with the idea of a more traditional monk faced with a worldly crisis.

What or who was your inspiration?

My inspiration was the hope that I could convey to a general movie-going public that our Lord God does exist and is around when we look to Him.

How long did it take for you to write your script?

The first draft took me close to 2 years. After I gained more experience I rewrote it years later, taking only 6 weeks.

What were some of the challenges that you faced during the writing process?

To make a fun, thoughtful, "Godly" film without being preachy.

What is your writing background?

Not much really, I wrote a few 30 page scripts years ago, then decided to get serious about it again.

Do you have formal training as a writer?

If formal could include one on one training with an experienced Television screenwriter for two years, than yes. Other than that, it was studying good screenwriting books... and of course, writing.

Do you have advice for other writers who are dealing with Christian themes?

Write something that excites and inspires you without neglecting the fundamentals of the craft.