Vaughan is the successful instructor of a hard core screenwriters course called “Story and Plot”. He has written over 25 screenplays including “Unstoppable” with Wesley Snipes and “Critical Assembly” with Kathryn Heigl of “Grey's Anatomy.”

Tom's most recent project is “Bronwyn & Clyde”, a script hecowrote with Kristy Dobkin. UV Pictures, Vaughan's production company along with his partner, Chris Uettwiller, is producing the feature.

Before heading off to LA for a mini working vacation, Vaughan took some time out to talk about his career in film.

Why did you decide to teach your class, “Story and Plot”?

I first taught a 10 week course and discovered that I actually had something to say and that I was pretty good at it. From that I created the “Story and Plot” courses. I think it is important for writers starting out to have a genuine mentor. Of course, you can read books and take online courses and seminars. But you can’t expect to absorb that information and just start writing effectively. You need that loop of feedback.

Are you a hardass as an instructor?

You need a thick skin in this business. We get brutal. There are other places in town for hobbyists. We are no holds barred. My course is about teaching professionals. Not everyone remains in the class. Not everyone is ready, which is fine. Not everyone is meant to tell stories. I mean, my mom can't tell a story, and I love her more than anyone in the world. There is nothing wrong with not being a natural storyteller. Just having the dream isn't enough; you also need to have the goods. The
whole point of the course is to develop material you can sell. These are professional level development sessions.

Do you feel that you need to be in Hollywood to be successful as a filmmaker?

That all depends on what you want. If you want to work in television, then yes. If you want to work on assignments then absolutely. No way around it, you have to be there. If you want to sell spec scripts, which is nearly impossible these days, then you don't necessarily have to be there, but you need to be in a position to travel out there often. I’m very fortunate. My writing partner lives out in
LA and so does my producing partner.

Do you consider yourself a writer or a storyteller?

A storyteller. It’s what we emphasize in the classes. Consider yourself a storyteller first. It is the telling of the story that matters. It’s subtle, but it’s important. When you see yourself as a screenwriter or even a writer, there is a natural focus on yourself. You’re putting your own ego up front. I do it all thetime and the writing suffers because of it. The writing is always best when you get yourself out of the way and focus on the story. Stop trying to show off what a great writer you are, how smart and clever you are, and just tell the story. It’s not about you. As a writer, there is an insecurity that can set in. As a storyteller, you're putting your focus on telling the story.

Testimonials about Tom’s workshop:

"I've studied screenwriting at two of the most prestigious film schools in the country, and I'm not exaggerating when I say I got more out of a couple of months with Tom than I did in my combined six years of university classes." VanceKotrla,writer/director

"Tom Vaughan' understands the value of underwriting to allow a script to breathe. He is one of my favorite writers." Dena Hysell, Director of Development, Slate of Eight
Productions

[Read this interview in its entirety at www.
examiner.com]