Jodi Levitan – Culture Shock

We had a chance to interview Jod Levitan the screenwriter of Culture Shock. Culture Shock is an official selection of the 12th annual Utah Film Festival. 

After her husband loses all their money and then leaves for another woman, Jamie Phillips  is forced to face the real world of jobs, bills, public schools and  ends  up working for a costumed catering company. In the process she learns what it really takes to be a true mom to her eight-year-old son.

What was the inspiration for coming up with Culture Shock?

Originally, it was a story of divorce and how the children become pawns in the game.  As the story developed, the relationship between mother and son became the focus. As that relationship developed, Jamie’s growth as a parent and independent person became the central plot. 

How long did it take you to write Culture Shock?

Well, that depends!  First draft, probably around six months. Subsequent drafts and rewrites? I would say a year or two.

What was the biggest challenge in writing this screenplay?

Finding the relationship between Jamie and Oliver, and giving that relationship the time and space it needed to grow.

What was your favorite scene to write?

The scene with Jamie and Oliver bonding over Larry the Lizard.  It’s such a sweet moment between the two of them.

What was your favorite character to create?

It’s really hard to choose, but Oliver is very close to my heart.  He reminds me of my son.

How/When do you plan to make it into a film?

I’m not sure with this one- if I’m going to go the independent route or the production company route.  I’m working with CAA on a couple of projects, so we’ll see where this one goes.

What do you have next in the works?

I’m lucky enough to have four projects in the works. 

Legacy is being represented by CAA

Finding Distance is also at CAA and has been optioned by Creative Screenwriters Inc.

The Lesson Plan is being produced by Donna Pennell, Schenectedy Film Commissioner.  DT Sheridan is attached to direct.

Learning to Land is also being produced by Donna Pennell.

How can we learn more about you and your projects?

Contact me- JodiLevitan123@gmail.com