Interview with Stephen J Willis, Screenwriter of « Anthony & Cleopatra »

This is a very original project and we loved how complex is the world you’ve created. How did you come up with this particular idea? Can you tell us about any specific events or inspirations that sparked your imagination?

I have met a few people over the years that really appeared to have abilities above the norm. Whether it be an eidetic memory, telepathic skills or past-life recall. I once met a shaman that appeared to “see” the mental images of whoever was stood before him. (I’ve actually based my experience with him on an upcoming novel).

What were your influences to create this piece? Were there any specific books, films, or historical events that played a role in shaping your vision?

A combination really; I was inspired by my visits to the Magic Circle in London and the Magic Castle in LA — meeting fantastic magicians and illusionists that really were next-level at misdirection. One even told me that, on occasion, he has had to use real, yet undisclosed telekinetic skills, to pull him out of trouble. Fascinating!
But I have met people that have gone through intensive drug-rehabs, recalling to me the dark and dangerous world that they were once a part of. And I also chatted with someone I know who is actively working behind the scenes with special authorities to expose rather nefarious people and their activities, part of which tends to include the real world of child trafficking.

We saw that you’ve written some other novels. Are you considering to adapt them? If so, which one would you most like to see on screen and why?

I have a novel called What’s the Time Mr Wolfdog, that people have already requested that I turn into a screenplay. But I have more notes set aside for creating its sequel instead. However, perhaps this would make for a great theatrical thriller, due to its psychological twists and turns and rather dark themes.

We also saw that you are an actor who has decided to become a writer. Would you say that your acting experience has influenced in your writing? In what specific ways has it shaped your approach to storytelling and character development?

Yes, I think that the acting definitely helped, in terms of really getting into the head of a character. It can make you a little more fearless in some character situations and rather more charismatic and flamboyant in another. And maybe also helps to give you your actors realistic range, in terms emotional curves and of limited screen pacing

Would you consider playing one of your characters?

Definitely. I’d be happy in either playing someone from a future episode of the Anthony & Cleopatra TV series, or one from my on-going literary teen series: The Christopher Daring Adventures.

We are very intrigued with what will become of Anthony and Cleopatra, and you even gave us a glimpse of it at the end of the script. How much of the first season do you already have planned? (And can you give us a hint? 😉)

Hmmm — you want inside information huh…?  Well, I have penned an outline for 8 episodes so far. There was a ninth, but we shall see… However, I guess it depends on networks like Netflix, Amazon or Apple and what vision they also have with it. I am sure if we work together as a team we could figure it out. And if I had my way, I’d like a kind of dark gothic edge to it, too, like Penny Dreadful or Carnival Row.

©2024 ITW: Jerzy P. Suchocki