Spotlights
Staci Edelstein
A spotlight conversation with the screenwriter.
Spotlight Interview
Staci Edelstein
Screenwriter
South African born and living in Dubai since 2016, Staci Edelstein is an investment banker by profession who was introduced to the world of film only a year back — and became inspired to pursue her passion in screenwriting.
Can you tell us about your background and how you got started in screenwriting?
I am South African born and ethnically Jewish. I have been living in Dubai since 2016 and I call Dubai my home. I was introduced to the world of film only a year back, by a friend of mine who is a screenwriter, director and actor and through him I became inspired to pursue my passion in screenwriting. I am actually an investment banker by profession and I am not formally trained in screenwriting. However I have a very creative mind and I consider myself a dreamer!
What's your writing process like? How do you go about creating characters and developing a story?
I have a love for understanding psychology and human relationships and I feel that characters are shaped by their experiences from their childhood. I like to portray real life, flawed characters shaped by their psychology in my work.
Can you talk about a recent project you've worked on and the challenges you faced while writing it?
I began co-creating a series for television with a co-creator. It started with lots of excitement and energy however I realised sometimes it is difficult to combine two different streams of thought/creativity together for a project as well as timing. I believe timing has been a factor and we could not align times to finish the script. I will however continue with this project, solo.
What do you think is the most important element of a great screenplay?
Something real that the audience can relate to and something that can evoke raw emotion in the viewer.
How do you feel about the current state of the film industry and the role of screenwriters in it?
I believe it is saturated with many talented writers and it is highly competitive.
How do you approach writing for different genres and audiences?
This is my first short film screenplay and I believe it will be the first of many. The future will tell!
How do you handle feedback and criticism?
This is a necessity in order to strive for improvement and I gladly take on all constructive feedback. I want to grow and learn. We never stop learning.
Can you talk about any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about?
I have written a bible for a Thriller Series Concept called “Honey Trap” which I am very excited about.
In Their Words
“It all starts with a single thought, passion and a keyboard! Start Writing!”
Staci Edelstein
How do you see the role of screenwriting evolving in the future?
May there be more real, raw, sincere screenplays to come!
What advice would you give to aspiring screenwriters?
It all starts with a single thought, passion and a keyboard! Start Writing!
Curtain Call
More Voices From the Spotlight
Meet the other filmmakers of this season, then bring your own story to Barcelona.