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Before we take a break from writing to celebrate the holidays, here's another Success Story for some Christmas cheer!
This interview was submitted on 12/15/2024
Firstly, tell us about yourself! Who are you as a writer & who did you end up signing with?
Hey! I'm Courtney Harrell. I'm queer, I'm a Leo :) and I've worked in the film industry for over 20 years as a producer and in the camera department. All the stories I write are infused with characters who share a bit of my playful spirit and also struggle with their own inner darkness.
I signed with James Moorer at One Moorer Management and our dynamic and shared vision is exactly the perfect fit I was looking for and I couldn't be more excited!
How did you meet your now rep? What was that first interaction like and how did it lead to your professional relationship now?
The first time I met James was the month before I my Roadmap Pitch Prep class in April 2023. We instantly connected over not only our love of storytelling and the film industry but also our work ethic and drive. Through the program, I had several pitch practice sessions with James and we finally met in person and hit if off at Austin Film Festival in October 2023. I met up with James again in LA in October 2024 and this time he pitched me! ... on all the reasons why I needed to sign with One Moorer Management. There was no doubt in my mind, his energy, his boldness and belief in my stories and writing, and our genuine connection. He was and is the right manager and partner for me.
How did (if at all) Roadmap Writers assist in getting you to this point? Do you think you could've made this step in your screenwriting career without Roadmap?
My entire journey through Roadmap was the boost I needed to bolster my career transition from Producer in the commercial world to Screenwriter and Creative Producer in features. Every Career Writer class, every person on the Roadmap team, every bit of work I did outside of and during class, and every friend I made going through the program pushed me to get to the point where I am in my career. It's hard to say if I could have made this step in my career without Roadmap but what I do know is Roadmap prepared me and shaped me into a more professional writer and filmmaker. The knowledge I gained and the support I now have has prepared me for the next phase of my career as a creative in the film industry.
What types of stories do you write? What's your "writer brand" and how do you think that helped you attract a good match for representation?
Whether it’s the campy, colorful chaos of San Francisco Gay Pride, the high-pressure world of illegal horse races, or a dark alluring gang of vampire boys in 1900 New York City, my stories feature underdogs and outsiders finding their place while navigating complex family dynamics, thrilling high-stakes action, and their own inner darkness. The themes of identity, self-discovery, and freedom echo throughout my projects in a heartfelt way whether they're comedies, thrillers, horror, or adventure stories. My partner coined my brand as "Snuggles and Horror," capturing their essence where lovable young protagonists face a terrifying world---and you’d hug them if you could.
James truly understands and champions my writer brand, recognizing the unique blend of heart, humor, and darkness that defines my stories.
Has your mindset about what you're writing changed now that you've added representation to your team? What's the biggest lesson you've learned or had to adapt to since you've been working with your rep?
Since teaming up with James, my mindset has shifted to fully trusting myself and my instincts as a storyteller. We share big visions, and together, we’re determined to bring them to life.
The biggest thing I've had to adapt to since working with James is embracing my desire to write and revise at a faster pace—he’s challenged me to complete 3-5 projects in 2025! With so many stories I’m excited to share, his push is exactly what I need to bring them into the world.
What do you hope your next steps are? What are your immediate goals now that you've landed representation?
Since landing representation, our immediate goal is getting my top three projects, PROUD, FINNY and THE BOY FROM HORSE MOUNTAIN, and CHRISTMAS IN JULY, into the right hands. We have someone epic in mind for PROUD---my Gay Amnesia Comedy that won Best Comedy Feature and the 2023 Nashville Film Festival---and I can't wait to see this story come to life!
In 10 years, what do you want your screenwriting career to look like?
In 10 years, I see myself as a writer and producer of numerous films and novels that have not only entertained audiences but have had a profound emotional impact on people of all ages. I envision co-owning a production company with my fellow writer and bestie, Noelle Figueroa. And, of course, I’m shooting for the stars—winning an Oscar at the 100th Academy Awards in four years is a dream I’ve had since I was a kid and am determined to make a reality.
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Courtney - good luck, and happy holidays!
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