Writing for Film & Television, Film Production, and Acting for Film & Television students were treated last week to a visit from District 9 co-writer and Writing alum Terri Tatchell.

Hosted by VFS Writing instructor Kat Montagu, the two chatted about Terri’s pre- and post-VFS career, as well as her contributions to one of the biggest films in recent sci-fi cinema.

“I was always terrified of the third act,” Terri said of her struggle co-writing the film’s climax. “I didn’t want to write action or see people explode.”

She graciously acknowledged Director/Co-Writer/3D grad Neill Blomkamp‘s talents for creating the “wow” factor, explaining that she instead focused on crafting the heart of the story. Her favourite contribution to the screenplay was adding – and staunchly defending – the character of “Little CJ”, who was completely computer-generated, and whose movements were partially based on Neill and Terri’s dog.

Terri covered everything from gathering the courage to contribute her ideas in a writing room with the same creative team that crafted The Lord of the Rings trilogy, to juggling life as a mother and in-demand screenwriter. While she couldn’t say whether there will be a sequel to the extremely successful District 9, she did mention her partner Neill is at work on a new original sci-fi concept, something she’s very excited to see.

Many thanks to Terri for sharing her time and experience!

Click here to check out the short film she’s currently adapting into a feature screenplay.