A family dinner takes a sinister turn when the children are reminded of a generational ritual at the onset of the father’s terminal illness.

https://www.instagram.com/jason_e_seelmann/

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

The Trait is a window into a family, so consumed by their place in society that they are willing to make an unbelievable sacrifice to maintain their status and secure their longevity, during one of the darkest times in American history.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Psychological Thriller, True Crime

3. How would you describe this script in two words?

Family Values

4. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

Not including traditional Christmas flicks, probably My Life, with Michael Keaton and Nicole Kidman.

5. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

I wrote the first draft about 3 years ago. It has had a couple subtle changes, but otherwise just as it was first conceived.

6. How many stories have you written?

I have 12 completed scripts, three short have been produced, two proof-of-concept shorts filming this year, plus another 18 scripts in various stages

7. What motivated you to write this screenplay?

A desire to explore the human condition, good and not so good.

8. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

Striking a balance between the real events and the creative licence as the writer.

9. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

Filmmaking in general, editing video for other filmmakers and helping them develop stories. I also work in the Art Department in film and tv in Calgary and being part of building worlds is inspiring.

10. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?

With the festival growing in popularity, it seemed like a good move.

11. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

Genre films are always in demand. Added to that, the growing interest in true crime, the timing has never been better. It is also a slice of American history that is rarely explored.