Interview with Sandra Asunka, screenwriter of Malik & Kyra

First of all, congratulations on your wins as Best Original Script and Best Romance Script! How did you come up with this idea?

This idea came to me right after college. I wanted to write something character-driven and dialogue-driven because those are the kinds of stories I find the most engaging. I explored different versions — for instance, two strangers living next door, attracted to each other but not fully knowing who the other is. But none of that stuck until I realized that I’m living my own coming-of-age period and I wanted to write from that perspective.

The script explores some very complex subjects from teenage angst to suicide. How difficult was it to write about them?

It was difficult, but also necessary. I’d be lying if I said there weren’t times when the script felt too dark. I tried to move away from that, but it felt disrespectful not to show the full truth of who these characters were and what they were going through. I also think it makes the lighter moments stand out even more.

The script places a strong emphasis on love and how it can give someone hope to carry on. How important would you say love is when it comes to dealing with these situations?

It’s very important. I think we all deserve to have someone tell us “I love you” every day — whether that’s a partner, a parent, a teacher, or friends.

What are you hoping for your audience to get from this script?

I just hope this script inspires people to lead with more empathy, because we never really know what someone else is going through.

Were there any movies that inspired you to write this script? If so, which ones?

The Breakfast Club was a huge inspiration. I even make a little nod to it in the fight scene. Other films like Cooley High, Good Will Hunting, and Dead Poets Society also played a major role.

Tell us more about your writing aspirations. Do you have other scripts you would like to tell us about?

Right now, I’m writing a road trip film that I hope to finish by the end of the year. And I have a lot of ideas in my head that I’m really excited about.

Short statement describing your vision of post-Covid cinema. Do you think there will be notable changes?

It’s hard to say. Success or failure is very unpredictable. I just hope that storytelling continues to stay at the heart of cinema, and that we keep pushing the boundaries of creativity in filmmaking.