Ep 216 - The Birth of "Dragonfly": An Oscar-Qualifying Journey with Julia Morizawa

The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

This Episode:

• Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun
  • Instagram @screenwriterpod

• Guest: Julia Morizawa, Writer/Director
  • Notable Projects: "Dragonfly"

• Episode Overview: In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun chats with Julia Morizawa, the creative mind behind the Oscar-qualifying animated short film "Dragonfly." Morizawa delves into the origins of the project, its connection to her family history, and the journey to making it an Oscar contender.Key Points Discussed:
  1. Origins of Dragonfly:
     • Inspiration from family history.
     • Discovery of the Tokyo Fire Bombing and its impact.
  2. The Making of an Animated Short:
     • Challenges and decisions behind choosing animation.
     • Collaboration with animation director Maria Martellaro and Eva Benitez.
  3. Passion and Persistence:
     • Overcoming financial and resource constraints.
     • The dedication and commitment of the team to the project.
  4. Oscar Qualification and Aspirations:
     • Setting high goals for the film.
     • Challenges of competing against big studios and managing an Oscar campaign.
  5. Expanding the Story:
     • Potential for a feature or series adaptation. - Exploring related stories, including a script about Heart Mountain Internment Camp.
  
  
  1. The Cultural and Historical Significance:
     • Discussing lesser-known historical events like the Tokyo Fire Bombing and the Heart Mountain Internment Camp.
     • The role of indie films in bringing these stories to a wider audience.
  2. Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers:
     • Importance of passion in storytelling.
     • Strategies for self-producing and collaborating in the indie film industry.
  3. Personal Reflections:
     • Julia Morizawa's insights on learning family history through filmmaking.
     • Symbolism of the dragonfly in the film and its connection to her mother's childhood.
  4. Final Thoughts:
     • The potential impact of "Dragonfly" in acknowledging and learning from historical events.
  Episode Highlights:
  • Julia's journey from researching her family history to creating an Oscar-qualifying film.
  • The creative and logistical challenges of producing an animated short film.
  • Insights on navigating the film industry and setting ambitious goals.
  
  
  • "Listen to the full episode to dive deeper into Julia Morizawa's fascinating journey with 'Dragonfly'. Don't forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories and screenwriting insights."