Diane Thomassin
What topic do you discuss in your script? And why?
The script for "My Favorite Narcissist" discusses the theme of narcissism in today's society, particularly in politics. This topic was chosen to shed light on the dynamics of power and influence and to challenge stereotypes while offering a fresh perspective on societal issues.
The script for "My Favorite Narcissist" discusses the theme of narcissism in today's society, particularly in politics. This topic was chosen to shed light on the dynamics of power and influence and to challenge stereotypes while offering a fresh perspective on societal issues.
How do people feel after reading your script?
After reading the script, people may feel engaged, entertained, and provoked to consider new perspectives on the portrayal of narcissism in society and the nuances of power dynamics in politics. My hope is that they might also examine any narcissistic traits in themselves as well, as we all have them. My aim is to promote personal growth. We can’t force personal growth on others, so in those cases, it helps to understand narcissistic behavior, so we can both be aware and protect ourselves from the destruction narcissism has on society worldwide.
Do you think that films can change people for the better or for the worse?
I sure do! That’s my main purpose of writing. Films have the potential to change people for the better by fostering greater understanding, promoting inclusivity, and encouraging positive social change. They can also have negative effects if they perpetuate stereotypes or present harmful narratives.
According to 3-act dramaturgy, how would you define your story?
According to the 3-act dramaturgy, the story of "My Favorite Narcissist" can be defined as a journey of personal growth and self-discovery for the protagonist, Olivia, as she navigates the complexities of City Hall and challenges her perceptions and interactions with others.
How does the main character develop?
The main character, Olivia, develops through a personal journey that challenges her perceptions and interactions with others, leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of the dynamics of power and ego. She also learns in watching the bad points of others, she can correct them in herself.
What actors do you imagine in your project (typologically)?
The project may imagine actors who can portray diverse and relatable characters, particularly for the role of Olivia, a mid-20s Latina navigating the dynamics of City Hall. I do actually think of specific actors or people when developing a character. When creating Mr. Mayor, I was thinking of Rob Lowe. For Olivia, Isabela Merced.
Why do you think your script should attract director?
The script should attract a director because it offers a thought-provoking portrayal of narcissism, weaves together sharp wit and social commentary ala Norman Lear, and features a timely and relevant story that connects with audiences.
At which festivals did you receive the award?
As of now, My Favorite Narcissist has received 9 awards in screenplay competitions. These include laurels from The Accolade Global Film Competition, Perfect Sky International Film Festival, Silver Wings International Film Festival, Caravan International Film Festival, Wiki: World’s Fastest Screenplay Contest (which I particularly like because of the valuable feedback), 28th Annual Fade In Awards TV Pilot/Web Series Competition, and Reel Harmony Film and Script Festival. I expect to win more awards as I am working on rewrites based on the feedback I have received. Additionally, it seems that after winning a few competitions, festival promoters on Film Freeway have offered me waivers to reduce or eliminate the entry fees, so I have entered dozens of competitions because of this.
Which screenwriters are your favorite and why?
Clint Eastwood. Overall, Clint's remarkable talent as a screenwriter stems from his ability to craft compelling stories, his versatility across genres, his understanding of the filmmaking process, and his willingness to fearlessly explore profound and challenging themes in his writing. Additionally, I hear that he honors the screenwriter’s work in the movies he directs, and rarely changes a singe word.
About which topics are your screenplays?
All of the screenplays I write revolve around themes of resilience, personal growth, and the triumph of the human spirit, while also challenging gender and racial stereotypes and inspiring audiences to consider new perspectives. My protagonists are always flawed, and my antagonists are always narcissistic, which is why I became sort of an expert on narcissism. In preparing for character development, in the past few years I’ve read 19 psychology books on the subject. Now I can create my antagonists as textbook narcissists, and make sure my protagonists abandon their narcissistic traits.
The most motivating factor to write screenplays is the passion for capturing the complexities of the human experience, showcasing stories of resilience, and contributing to a more empathetic and interconnected world through the art of storytelling. If I can make a difference in even one person’s life, that would be a beautiful thing. I love to showcase the warrior mentality in overcoming adversity.
What are your plans in future careers?
In future career plans, I am committed to upholding the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in my work, creating characters and stories that honor the richness of different cultures, backgrounds, and identities, and continuing to elevate the human experience through storytelling. That, and I need to get paid. I just started putting my work out there in July 2023. If I can sell a screenplay or TV Pilot, it would be the highlight of my career. I am also writing 2 amazing drama pilots and an adult animation series, and I am ready to pitch them.
Diane Thomassin is a freelance screenwriter of Mexican-American, Native-American, and Azorean descent. She is known for her deeply moving and authentic portrayals of human resilience and personal growth, as well as her passion for storytelling that resonates with audiences on a profound level. Diane's work reflects her commitment to crafting narratives that celebrate the human spirit and inspire positive change.
Her screenplays, including "Single Girl’s Guide to Narcissists," "The Fall of the Church of Wealth and Faith," "The Evolution of Low Joe," "The Magician," "Shadows in the Park," and the TV pilot "My Favorite Narcissist," have received over 20 laurels in screenplay contests.
Diane Thomassin is a freelance screenwriter of Mexican-American, Native-American, and Azorean descent. She is known for her deeply moving and authentic portrayals of human resilience and personal growth, as well as her passion for storytelling that resonates with audiences on a profound level. Diane's work reflects her commitment to crafting narratives that celebrate the human spirit and inspire positive change.
Her screenplays, including "Single Girl’s Guide to Narcissists," "The Fall of the Church of Wealth and Faith," "The Evolution of Low Joe," "The Magician," "Shadows in the Park," and the TV pilot "My Favorite Narcissist," have received over 20 laurels in various screenplay contests.