We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Christan Van Slyke a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Christan, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
What a good question! Some days are more challenging than others. I try to stay focused on the things in life that motivate me and help keep that spark alive. I find without motivation, creativity falls short. Watching a new, recommended film, reading a great script, spending quiet time in nature, or time with my family are all simple ways that help keep my creative juices flowing. It’s important to stay focused on the positive things in life, the things that matter most. When I am down, I simply dive head first into those things, take a breather, recharge, and come back refreshed.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a multi international award-winning screenwriter, based in Texas. I started my film work back in 2008 while living in Seattle, WA for a short time. Having such a love for film- I learned the ropes, trying out a variety of roles on set, from PA to AD. I learned while working for The Details production in 2009 that writing was my home, where I really wanted to take root in the industry. I have been blessed with over 600 wins/accolades via festival circuit for screenwriting. I have had many optioned and produced works, as well as many in development. I also have many available for option/purchase short and feature screenplays currently. I am represented by the wonderful, Nuala Quinn-Barton with Mania Entertainment LLC and The Film Co-Operative. With many projects in development, and writing on assignment, I stay quite busy when it comes to writing. At the top of the list in development is Curbside Service- my big hitter at the festivals currently. It was recently featured at this year’s Festival de Cannes and has received over 35 awards so far in the festival circuit- including a win at Cannes-SRFA. Set to include the lovely Laurine Price and Megan Reneau. Currently shopping for financing with Nuala. Other notable titles in development are Reclaim & Rescued with All Dog Entertainment, Faith, Hope & Grace, Lover Haters Club, End it on This and more…
As many in the film industry know, writing is a full time job in itself. It’s no easy feat to complete a script. Quite an accomplishment in itself. I am also a mom and wife. Finding time to write is a challenge sometimes but I try to keep a set routine in motion for family to help balance everything.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I would say the first area I have grown in that comes to mind, is patience. Not a fun quality to have to learn, considering it’s only learned through practice. But, over time I have learned that in the film industry or just in life general, trying to rush or force things could not only hinder real blessings that are coming to you, but could also cause messes unnecessarily. We are all eager to get our work out there, however, it’s crucial to practice patience and trust that the value of you and your work will get recognized by the right people and celebrated. Never settle or sell yourself short. I am definitely guilty of that at times.
Secondly, I feel learning the ropes, trying a variety of positions on set in the beginning really helped me see the big picture when it comes to making a movie. This was truly an irreplaceable area of knowledge. It took some time but was well worth it. I know what it takes and what each role brings to the table. Every piece of the puzzle is crucial. So now when I write, I consider these things. It has helped me become a better writer in many ways. That has been very impactful for my journey.
Lastly, I would have to say the wisdom and discernment I have obtained over the years is truly impactful and irreplaceable. I have fallen short in many areas of my filmmaking journey. In the beginning I would collaborate with whoever asked me to. This habit of excitement created a downward cycle in my career unfortunately. I was sorely taken advantage of and I had to spend a couple of years rebuilding and reshaping who I believe I am in this industry. Now I realize the importance of researching anyone you are considering collaborating with in any fashion, whether it be writing, filming, etc. In the long run, these choices will matter immensely and will help shape your reputation in the industry. Be wise and use discernment folks- especially those just starting out. Don’t let anyone take advantage of you or your gifts.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always open to the possibility of collaborating with others! A good film requires a solid team with similar work ethics, values and more. I have many available scripts that I am hoping to one day share with the world and would love to discuss these stories with any producers, production companies, etc. seeking fresh, unique stories with important, valuable messages to share.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3578545/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christanvanslyke/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christan.vanslyke.1/
- Other: https://thefilmco-op.org/christan-van-slyke/
