True Fiction Project – Season 5, Episode 8: "Second Set"

Host: Renita Hora
Guest: Candice Egan, Professor of Film and Media Arts at Fresno State University and Acclaimed Screenwriter

Introduction

In the eighth episode of Season 5 of True Fiction Project, host Renita Hora welcomes Candice Egan, a distinguished professor and screenwriter known for her compelling female-driven narratives. The episode delves into Candice’s creative process, her commitment to diversifying female characters in film and television, and her latest screenplay, "Second Set."

Guest Background and Creative Focus

Renita Hora opens the conversation by expressing deep admiration for Candice Egan, highlighting her multifaceted role as an educator and storyteller. [02:04] Renita states:

"Candice, you've done so much as an educator, as a storyteller, and you are continuing to do a variety of things. You're focused on female driven stories, horror stories."

Candice shares her passion for writing scripts that center on strong female characters, aiming to break the long-standing male-centric narratives in film. [03:10] she explains:

"I try to actually look at, well, how can I have some female characters that take on these stronger points and do interesting fun things?"

Breaking Stereotypes in Female Characters

Candice emphasizes the importance of creating diverse and multidimensional female roles beyond traditional stereotypes such as the mother, wife, or the antagonist. [04:41] she remarks:

"I'm looking for finding different kinds of characters and doing different things with the women."

She aspires to portray women who are vibrant, active, and engaged in exciting endeavors, regardless of age. [05:34] Candice notes:

"Life doesn't end just because you're retired."

Incorporating Comedy and Genre Flexibility

Despite initially not intending to write comedy, Candice finds that humorous elements naturally emerge in her scripts. [08:08] she shares:

"I didn't think I was gonna do comedy and yet I've had several scripts where there are moments of comedy."

Candice discusses her approach to genre, advocating for flexibility and following the story's needs rather than adhering strictly to a single genre. [10:49] she advises:

"Go with what fits the idea... the output is probably going to be better if it's speaking to what's exciting you at the moment."

Achievements and Recognition

Candice highlights her recent successes, including receiving a fellowship from Stowe and having her screenplay shortlisted for the Women's Comedy Film Festival. [06:58] she enthusiastically shares:

"So it was kind of an exciting, you know, because you enter all these things and sometimes it's like, thank you. We had lots of entries. Good luck. Keep it up."

Deep Dive into "Second Set"

Renita Hora transitions the discussion to Candice’s screenplay, "Second Set," a story about mature women returning to college to play tennis. [14:07] Candice elaborates on the inspiration behind the script:

"Second chance is like, you know, the second set is a twist on getting a second chance to do something you would never expect."

The screenplay features Lena, a 55-year-old former tennis player who reenters the sport later in life, navigating familial tensions and personal growth. [16:32] Candice explains:

"The head of the whole athletic division is the ex sister in law... there's some secrets that she's trying to protect that would evolve later."

Character Development and Personal Influences

Candice discusses how her personal experiences and observations in the educational and tennis worlds informed the development of "Second Set." [16:32] she shares:

"I'm pulling from things I've seen and with ideas along that line too. So I really know the world and I know the tennis world."

This authenticity lends depth to the characters, particularly the protagonist Lena, who grapples with balancing her passion for tennis with her responsibilities as a professor and single mother. [27:05] Lena's character reveals:

"I had a scholarship to play for the local college... I was pregnant. I quit college, got married, moved away and got divorced."

Revisions and Refinement Process

Candice outlines the rigorous process of rewriting and refining her screenplay, emphasizing mentorship and peer feedback. [20:05] she reflects:

"There were lots of little revisions going on, working my way through before I go to, like, the next major ones. So my major ones, probably around six."

This iterative process ensured that "Second Set" evolved into a well-rounded and engaging narrative.

Unique Appeal and Audience Reception

The unique premise of older women returning to competitive sports garnered positive feedback from mentors and audiences alike. [22:02] Candice attributes the script’s success to its unexpected yet relatable concept:

"The world is, it's unexpected... the idea of this playing in a community college, older players putting a woman in a situation, feels a bit unique."

Audio Fiction Segment: "Second Set"

Following the interview, True Fiction Project presents an excerpt from Candice Egan’s screenplay "Second Set." This audio fiction segment immerses listeners in Lena’s world as she navigates the challenges of returning to college tennis, interspersed with flashbacks to her past and interactions with other mature athletes.

Notable Excerpts:

• Lena’s Determination:
  Lena jerks to a stop and glares at the orange refrigerated boxcars that roll by. [26:10]

  "Jesus. The tracks still run through campus."

• Introducing Conflict:
  Marcia introduces Lena to the group.

  "Lena, Elaine and Teresa all stare at Marsha."

• Humorous Elements:
  Gloria’s outburst showcases dark comedy.

  "I need women's tennis to step up so I can cinch the national team Sports Athletic Cup. The nutsack. This is my year to win it." [33:55]

Closing Remarks and Additional Information

Before concluding, Renita Hora invites listeners to connect with Candice and learn more about her work through her website, candacegan.com. Candice also mentions her involvement in documentaries and other screenplays, highlighting her versatility as a creator. [23:23] she states:

"I also have a documentary that I've submitted to festivals and I've actually got a couple festivals where my screenplay is getting accepted."

Renita commends Candice’s multifaceted talents and thanks her for her contributions to the True Fiction Project. [24:04]

Where to Find More

Listeners interested in Candice Egan’s work can visit her website at candacegan.com for updates on her scripts and other creative projects. Additionally, subscribing to the True Fiction Project newsletter on Substack provides access to exclusive content, including video versions of episodes.

Key Takeaways:

• Commitment to Diverse Female Narratives: Candice Egan is dedicated to creating rich, multidimensional female characters that break traditional stereotypes across various genres.

• Genre Flexibility Enhances Storytelling: Embracing multiple genres allows for more authentic and engaging narratives, as evidenced by the seamless integration of comedy into her scripts.

• Rigorous Creative Process: Through extensive revisions and mentorship, Candice ensures that her screenplays are polished and impactful.

• "Second Set" – A Unique Narrative: The screenplay offers a fresh perspective on mature women pursuing athletic dreams, blending humor, drama, and personal growth.

Notable Quotes:

• Candice Egan on Female-Driven Scripts:

  "I try to actually look at, well, how can I have some female characters that take on these stronger points and do interesting fun things." [03:10]

• On Genre Flexibility:

  "Go with what fits the idea... the output is probably going to be better if it's speaking to what's exciting you at the moment." [10:49]

• On the Success of "Second Set":

  "The idea of this playing in a community college, older players putting a woman in a situation, feels a bit unique." [22:02]

True Fiction Project continues to bridge the gap between nonfiction interviews and scripted fiction, showcasing the transformative power of real-life experiences in storytelling.