INTERVIEW
CHRISTAN
VAN SLYKE
“I am always inspired by other creatives being successful!”
Christan van Slyke is an international award-winning optioned screenwriter & film juror based in Fort Worth, Texas. She is known for films The Details (2011), Watchdogs (2021), Not in a Million Years (2022). She has received many accolades for her screenwriting such as Oaxaca Film Fest Finalist, Global Script Challenge Finalist, New York Film Award Winner, FilmCon Award Winner, and many others. Recently, Christan obtained representation from Tammie Smith and has many projects in pre-production with Smith International Productions.
Thank you so much for interviewing with us! Can you share your story on how did you get started in the film industry?
In 2008, I joined some small production companies in Seattle. I worked in various film crew positions learning new skills and was determined to find which area I want to focus. I discovered that screenwriting was my home! Now I am a screenwriter and do some associate production work as well!
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Who are you grateful towards your success and can you share a story about that?
My biggest inspirations have always been film directors M. Night Shyamalan and Christopher Nolan. They have both encouraged me to think outside of the box and push the envelope of the writing world per se. The industry is starving for fresh, original content, and I hope to see some of my works come to life and provide viewers with just that. I am often inspired by fellow peers in the industry too! I love seeing them succeed! It encourages me to challenge myself and keep pushing forward toward my goal.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
I have recently signed with film director Tammie Smith & Smith International Productions! Many of my projects have since been acquisitioned and are being prepared for production shortly! Watchdogs, a post-apocalyptic thriller is currently in pre-production!
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What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? How did you overcome it?
I find that the biggest challenge currently is collaboration projects. When working with others, it can be challenging to get the results you desire and to get the timing right. I have some projects in limbo due to collaboration issues. I am currently trying to overcome this by focusing more on my own works instead of multiple collaborations. Hopefully, those projects will work out soon. The best advice my dad ever gave me is “Always forward and always positive”. I try to adhere to that and remain hopeful in great results.
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What has been inspiring you lately?
I am always inspired by other creatives being successful! Seeing festival wins and success in the industry pushes me to better myself. It also lets me know that what I dream of doing is possible.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
I am simply a mother who loves to write! I have dreams and hopes the same as anyone else. Keep pushing forward towards your goals. Even small progress is still progress, and it adds up to big results!
