Testimonial #2 - Lu Lippold

“I first became aware of Ryan’s important role in the Twin Cities film community through his Minnewood website, where he supports and promotes the work of other filmmakers. As the grant administrator for IFP Media Arts, I’ve had the privilege of viewing his films and reading his screenplays. His screenplay Prescription Happiness has been a finalist for an extremely competitive filmmaking grant, and I fully support him in his efforts to bring it to the screen. I have no doubt that with his talent and enthusiasm, this film will be a gem.”

- Lu Lippold, Director of Funding Programs at IFP Minnesota

Testimonial #1 - Miriam Queensen

In his work for the screenwriting classes I've taught at the Loft Literary Center and in his scripts that I've read, Ryan Strandjord shows that he knows how to think not just like a screenwriter, but like a director. Particularly in his short script Prescription Happiness, Strandjord creates an effective and emotional story using images only. Rather than relying on the easy route of letting dialogue tell his story, Strandjord chooses his words carefully, painting the emotional beats of the story using concise but powerful images. His writing is clear and cogent, and tells an important story. I would love to see what he could create through the medium of film, given sufficient means and support.

- Miriam Queensen’s screenplay Clara, based on the life of 19th-century pianist and composer Clara Schumann, placed highly in several national competitions, including the Hollywood Screenplay Discovery Awards and the Santa Fe Screenwriting Competition. Clara was optioned by a European director. Miriam's thriller screenplay The Red Seal has been optioned by a producer in L.A. She is currently working on two novels based on her screenplays The Activist and Sunken Treasure. She has also taught screenwriting at The Loft Literary Center, Brainco School of Advertising and IFP/MN.

Fundraising Time!

Donation proposal was sent out to the first heavy hitter today. I already know they want to contribute, just waiting to see how much. More to come soon.