The Heroine’s Journey of Danielle Fray

What is the best thing that I love about my work?

I love the creativity, the long burn of a great story arc, the instrumentation of a great character. Script writing came to me later in life and I’ve been incredibly lucky to have the peers and friends i have to achieve my niche. It’s quite a high, a big rush to see your work out there, to get positive feedback on things one has created. When you do what love doing, it never feels like work, it’s a calling.

What is my idea of happiness?

Happiness? That’s quite a wide question. Happiness, total happiness is hard to achieve, when you’re younger you think its all about money or becoming popular. It’s not that. Not for me anyway. Happiness for me is kicking back with my favourite songs and a glass of wine and contemplating things i have done. That little moment when things are quiet and serene.

What is my greatest fear?

Not being good enough, as a writer I’m constantly worrying about if my last draft is good enough, does it resonate enough? Is it too silly? Is it weak and pandering? Will people laugh at it? I’m constantly told I’m good at what i do, now where I’m at , those fears are less so , but they always nag at the back of my mind.

What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?

Oh definitely self doubt, i could kick myself sometimes!

Which living persons in my profession do i most admire?

I’m a huge admirer of  John Carpenter, The guy is a genius of low budget film making. His early work especially, and his script collaborations with the late, great Debra Hill. I grew up in the 70’s and 80’s that truly was a magical time for film makers. So many films at that time inspired me to do something creative. From Brian DePalma, James Cameron and Lucas & Spielberg to Katherine Bigelow, Debra Hill and John Landis.

What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?

The waiting. The waiting to see if it resonates with readers or producers absolutely kills. Waiting for that first review – good or bad is a killer!

When and where was I the happiest, in my work?

I guess it would be when Charlie came to me a few years ago with the idea of hashtag#girlsontour. My My, 2022 we first talked about it. It’s gone so fast. Developing the characters and shaping the story, we both knew we had something special on our hands.

If I could, what would I change about myself?

Be less anxious and more confident.

What is my greatest achievement in work?

Adapting TRANSFIXED into a screenplay for my colleague, Lisa MacIntyre. I achieved self awareness while writing the script, truly. I literally poured blood sweat and tears into that project.

Where would I most like to live?

Mexico

What is my most treasured possession?

My father’s ashes. I still haven’t scattered them, and he’s been dead eight years, i really should let go but he was so important to me.

What is my most marked characteristic?

My flirtatious nature.

What is my most inspirational location, in my city?

I guess the Cathedral, In Chichester. I’m not religious but, the structure is vast and beautiful.

What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city?

Has to be The Lotus Garden – A wonderful Thai place. The staff are just incredibly nicve and the food – OH! to die for.

What books influenced my life and how?

I grew up with Stephen King & Clive Barker, so very dark stories that seep into one’s mind. They opened my mind into thinking – here’s a picture of society – what’s wrong here? It made me question, It made me curious, It made me revaluate modern thinking.

You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?

Honestly? Probably something by The Sisters Of Mercy or Type O Negative.

Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?

It’s a little out there, but ELLEN RIPLEY from the Alien Franchise. they totally spun the heroine angle in those films. You can be beautiful, intelligent and hard ass.

Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?

In real life? Malcom X, Public Enemy, Madonna, Souixsie Soux, Divine, Lady Gaga, Joan Jett, Deborah Harry. John Waters, The Sex Pistols, They shaped my life.

Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?

This is England.

What role play stories in my life and work?

Everything that challenges the norm.

What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ to me?

I’m constantly asked to do an autobiography. I really don’t feel the need to – everything past and present is in what i write.

Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?

Probably my co writer and long time friend, Charlie.

Which people or companies would I like to work with?

Kat Rollinson,
John Carpenter,
Zac Thraves,
Kitty March,
Katherine Bigelow,
Edgar Wright,
Gaga,
John Waters,
Russel T Davies,
Yeti Valhalla

What project am I looking forward to work on?

hashtag#girlsontour; Road trip. I have so many ideas.

Where can you see me or my work?

https://amzn.eu/d/fYH71lF
https://www.youtube.com/@daniellefray7316

What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?

Believe in what you do. NEVER give up. I’m 52 but i still feel like i’m 23. Never quit, never compromise.

Which creative heroines should Peter invite to tell their story?
Kat Rollinson,
Gina Falke.

How can you contact me?
missfray1972@aim.com

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