Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

High Ground is a dramatic, near-future story set in climate-ravaged Miami. Gloria Tejeda, a brilliant, physically disabled architect, becomes an unexpected hero. As rising seas and political polarization threaten lives and values, her fight against societal judgment, and radical extremists transforms her from a misunderstood figure into a national symbol of strength, vulnerability, and moral courage.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Drama, with elements of Science Fiction, Social Commentary, and Thriller. It delves into abstruse disability issues and touches on Romance and Political Satire.

Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

High Ground is a blend of personal and planetary crisis, addressing timely issues of climate change, misinformation, overcoming disabilities, and extremism. Gloria is emotionally insecure and physically limited, yet her internal and external challenges bring out inner strength. Her journey is inspiring, cinematic, and relevant. The story delivers suspense, emotional weight, visual spectacle, and a message of hope in a divided world. It is a story that needs to be told.

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

Empowering, Relevant.

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

Dr. Strangelove.

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

The characters and situations revealed themselves to me over several months. A year later, after many editing sessions, it is time to share them with the world.

6. How many stories have you written?

I have written two novels, three screenplays, dozens of short stories mostly for children, and one poem.

7. What motivated you to write this screenplay?

A passion to explore what it means to stand your ground in a collapsing world. I was inspired by people who persevere despite disabilities, by the disinformation crises in our culture, and by a desire to tell a story where hope emerges through empathy, truth, and radical honesty.

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

Balancing character-driven drama and speculative world-building. Avoiding cliché while writing a lead character with a disability required deep empathy and research. Emotional vulnerability was key—and not easy to write truthfully.

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

I’m passionate about architecture and design, particularly sustainable and inclusive spaces— which inspired my world-building in High Ground. I care deeply about social justice and the arts as tools for transformation.

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

I saw Female Film Festival Feedback as a platform that values bold, socially relevant stories.

Your feedback was motivating and affirming—it confirmed Gloria’s voice, and the questions the screenplay raises will resonate with the audience.

11. What movie have you watched the most times in your life?

Dr. Strangelove