"Getting to know Christan van Slyke, Screenwriter/Producer and some of her upcoming films."
Can you tell us what "Curbside Service" is about, casting, and what inspired you to write the scripts for these films?
Curbside Service is an indie, character driven, romcom about a recently separated couple who find themselves in quite the predicament when they get stranded in the desert on their way to an obligatory, family holiday gathering. Inspiration for this film and almost everything I write is primarily based off of my own life experiences and lessons. Never a dull moment, as they say. This is one of my favorite scripts I've written to date, with some of my favorite characters. Grateful for the tremendous feedback via peers and festivals over the last year or two for this project. This script has received over 35 accolades from all over the world and was featured at the 2023 Festival de Cannes in the Cannes Film Market Catalog. The irreplaceable Laurine Price (General Hospital, Switched) will be taking on the role of "Elaine," and Brett Robert Culbert (Rebel Moon, General Hospital) will be taking on the lead role of "Derrick." The film will also include the lovely Megan Reneau as "Elle," possible love triangle anyone? Currently being shopped for financing by the Development Executive Producer Nuala Quinn-Barton with Mania Entertainment LLC, and The Film Co-Operative.
"End it On This" explores some deep themes. What can you share about the storyline and the main characters?
End it On This is a series I am working on that would be categorized as post-apocalyptic, dark comedy I would say. Dark themes with relatable comedic moments. It's about an oblivious couple that decide to take a trip away from the big city, as a last ditch effort to save their relationship. Meanwhile, a sudden apocalypse begins to unfold around them. The lead "Blake" will be played by the tremendously talented Anna Stadler (Back in Action, The In-between). She will be joined by the lovely Diana Noris (End of Watch, The Rum Diary) as "Eliza."
"The Gotaways" is an intriguing title. What is the plot of this film, and what message do you hope to convey to the audience?
Thank you! The Gotaways is a romcom about a producer who learns her hit TV show is being canceled. Now at a crossroads, she's led back to her hometown where she must revisit her own "Gotaways" from the past, in hopes of finding her way once again. Set to include the talented Diana Noris as "Kayla Banks," and Brett Robert Culbert as the irresistible bff "Logan," this warm hearted, romcom is guaranteed to inspire viewers toward self reflection and reevaluation of our own choices we make daily. Choosing to focus on what truly matters in this life is really the goal with this story.
"In the Cards" is currently in pre-production. What is the central premise of this film?
"In the Cards" is an inspirational, drama about a down-to-earth girl next door who's world is turned upside down when she piques the interest of a rough-around-the-edges men's club president. The talented Frankie Galvez (Walker, Landman) will be taking on the intense, lead role of "Mike," the club president.
You've achieved remarkable success with 600+ awards and significant recognition. How has this impacted your career, and what advice do you have for other aspiring screenwriters?
Thank you! I'm still learning and still pushing forward daily toward my own goals, honestly. I would say the best advice I could offer is to keep pushing forward no matter how tough it gets. Writing is not for the faint of heart. What we do is extremely challenging and often times quite lonely. A good support system is imperative for our success and the ability to keep going. Stay focused, find your routine and stick with it, and celebrate the baby steps- the small daily wins. That should be the goal! Small daily progress adds up to big results, as they say.
How do you manage to stay organized and creative while working on multiple projects like "Curbside Service," "End it On This," "The Gotaways," and "In the Cards"?
It's not easy. I'm certainly not going to lie here. It takes tremendous discipline to sit down and write everyday, or whatever the goal may be. But I find once I get my routine going and stick to it, I start to follow it naturally. Things begin to flow naturally as well. Nothing forced. So I would say, consistency, self discipline and healthy balanced routine is key to being a successful writer. Also use discernment when determine who you will collaborate with! This could make or break your career and focus.
Building buzz and support is crucial for these films. Tell us where we can find out more about your work and the upcoming projects.
You can visit and follow any of our project sites and links for upcoming project details.
- My link: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3578545/
-www.instagram.com/christanvanslyke