I'm David Ritter from Cambridge, Massachusetts, independent publisher of obscure visual histories focused on science fiction fandom.
Can a history research project become a film? Is the origin of science fiction fandom in the 1930s of interest to anybody today? Then as now, fandom was fraught with intelligence, puerile conflict, goofy wit and awkwardness. What happened then shaped what happens now. If you think fandom is a way of life -- or even just a compelling hobby -- please take a look at my logline for "The Exclusion Act."
Hi David, welcome! I've always been a history nut, and I have yet to write a contemporary script. History is filled with so much untapped potential for compelling stories, that I always welcome a film that takes place in the past.
Thanks, James. This period of history (c1939) is particularly interesting for me. The country was just emerging from the Great Depression. War in Europe was looming. Science had opened up seemingly limitless possibilities. The youth of America was seeking... something. Many of those with imagination found science fiction as inspiring, enjoyable or both -- and they began to gather together, establishing the first roots of today's massive fandom community. We've documented this history extensively in our books, and felt that the culmination of the decade in the First World Science Fiction Convention was a seminal event. We also see entertainment potential in the conflict and drama created by competing factions of fans, all of whom were colorful characters. I'm looking forward to exploring the possibilities.
It definitely feels like an untapped market, especially in the age of superhero films, something like Michael Chabon's The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay. I'd be interested in reading it.
possiable what one did you have in mind?