WINNER
2nd place
TOP 10
FINALIST
BEST
SCREENPLAY
WINNER
3rd place
TOP 50
FINALIST
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Acclaim Scripts Screenplay Contest
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Writers Store Industry Insider Screenwriting Contest
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Miami International Science Fiction Film Festival!
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StoryPros International Screenplay Contest
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ISA Fast Track Fellowship
/ CONSULTANCY & SCRIPT COVERAGE
I specialize in high-concept thrillers laced with adventure, sci-fi, or supernatural elements. I love creating high-octane suspense and mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
My writing has received "recommends" and has been praised by professional readers, including The Black List.
My most recent sci-fi thriller was called:
"A mind-bending, intense, extremely intelligent screenplay, that’s as much fun to read as it is smart. It’s a high-concept, original, sci-fi thriller that should be made." (Wescreenplay)
Screencraft called my supernatural thriller “One hell of a wild ride.”
I’ve written on assignment in LA. As a writer--for--hire, I offer a fast, reliable turnaround with an eye toward marketability and getting scripts production-ready.
I'm a graduate of the University of Miami with degrees in Motion Pictures Screenwriting and Creative Writing. I also have my Masters in Screenwriting Certification through ScreenwritingU.
I have three years of experience as a script reader and story consultant for productions companies in LA and abroad, published authors, and optioned/produced screenwriters. You can read what some of my clients have to say below.
I currently work for Universal Studios in Los Angeles.
Contact me for any writing samples and for availability for writing assignments. I'd love to discuss your ideas.
Helena Derett's guidance through my screenplay rewrite was invaluable. She has a sharp and practiced eye, and a gift for knowing what works, and how to accomplish it.
Robin F. Gainey
Published novelist / Optioned screenwriter
Helena was extremely helpful in elevating several scripts I have written. Her suggestions regarding conflict, plot, and dialogue were a lifesaver and she has been a part of helping my career as a producer and screenwriter advance in great ways.
Glenn Petruzzi
Produced Screenwriter
The professionally written notes targeted all the strengths and the weaknesses in the script from structure to pacing, characters and dialogue. The comments gave me huge encouragement. Helped me take my script to the next level. Highly recommend!
Robert D. Miles
Owner Timestream Pictures