Revenge of the Servants of the Gods
Written by Judy Elizabeth Brulo
Winner Grand Prix: Best Feature Script, and Honorable Mention in Best Television Script - Pilot
Judy grew up in the UK Midlands. She studied at the Guildhall School of Music, London. After graduating, she worked as a professional violist and teacher. Her love of writing emerged through the need to create material for her Early Years music groups. Then, along came the real inspiration: grandchildren Kaia and Taio, for whom she wrote stories on almost a weekly basis. She lived in Cambridge (UK) for many years and in Cyprus for six years. She now lives in Warwickshire (UK) with her husband, Alex. Judy spends her time writing, editing and presenting Reading-Music-Action sessions.
Winner Grand Prix: Best Feature Script, and Honorable Mention in Best Television Script - Pilot
Judy grew up in the UK Midlands. She studied at the Guildhall School of Music, London. After graduating, she worked as a professional violist and teacher. Her love of writing emerged through the need to create material for her Early Years music groups. Then, along came the real inspiration: grandchildren Kaia and Taio, for whom she wrote stories on almost a weekly basis. She lived in Cambridge (UK) for many years and in Cyprus for six years. She now lives in Warwickshire (UK) with her husband, Alex. Judy spends her time writing, editing and presenting Reading-Music-Action sessions.
What topic do you discuss in your script? And why?
The topic? In a nutshell, Revenge of the Servants of the Gods (the first in a series of six Vulture Island Adventures) discusses a young person's potential for growth and also incorporates a thread of nature conservation. Why? The ideas for the story sprang from my experience in Cyprus. Not only did the history of the island fascinate me but I was also blown away whenfor the first time, I saw the magnificent sight of a Griffon Vulture launching itself from a cliff top. When I discovered Griffon Vultures on Cyprus were a threatened species I decided to combine these elements into an adventure story involving a young boy.
How do people feel after reading your script?
Children and adults alike have reacted enthusiastically, especially when I have presented my stories on school visits.
Do you think that films can change people for the better or for the worse?
Films are a powerful medium, embracing many topics and genres. They impact the viewer on many levels: visually, aurally, and emotionally. Therefore, they have the power to influence the viewer. How each viewer responds is entirely their own responsibility.
According to 3-act dramaturgy, how would you define your story?
It is a 3-act format. Luke, the protagonist, is the key to helping Griff, the vulture, find a solution to a life or death situation - Duggitt, the antagonist, aims to thwart the success of Luke's plan - Luke finds a way to solve the problem.
How does the main character develop?
Withdrawn, ten-year-old Luke is angry at moving with his mum and stepdad to Vulture Island. He's missing his school friends, and he's wondering if he'll make friends in his new home. However, once on the island he encounters a Griffon Vulture. Through this unusual friendship and the subsequent life-threatening adventures, Luke becomes a force to be reckoned with.
What actors do you imagine in your project (typologically)?
It is intended for family - animation.
Why do you think your script should attract directors?
I hope directors will see something out of the ordinary. The number of animated family films that combine fantasy, history, adventure and nature (especially vultures) are few. And I hope the fact that there are five more books to be adapted to screen might also attract directors.
At which festivals did you receive the award?
Budapest Movie Awards, Nature Without Borders Film Festival, Prague International Film Awards, Cinematography & Photography Awards, Sydney World Festival, Chicago Script Awards (selected), Way of Art Film Festival (selected).
Which screenwriters are your favorite and why?
For animation: Chris Miller, William Davies (for Puss in Boots). Jesse Andrews and Mike Jones (for Luca). In both films the pace and action drive forward. With humour, too.
About which topics are your screenplays?
Children's fantasy adventure fiction.
What motivates you the most to write screenplays?
I love the medium. I love visualising the characters, their actions and reactions, and shaping their journeys through the storyline.
What are your plans for your future career?
To keep writing and hopefully to see the scripts on screen!