Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Niall Cassin, a successful screenwriter and producer from Dublin, Ireland.
Niall was born in Dublin and spent 10 years in the financial sector before following his passion for film and moving to Vancouver, Canada.
Niall returned to Ireland as the personal assistant to former Universal Pictures Executive Scott Bernstein (Straight Outta Compton, Respect) on the Steven Spielberg executive-produced feature, The Turning. Recently, Niall worked on Ridley Scott’s latest movie, The Last Duel starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and Adam Driver.
Please tell us about your journey.
I started working in films about 6 years ago after spending a decade working in a bank. Since then, I have worked on over 40 productions in various different roles on movies & TV shows like Deadpool, Tully, Supernatural, War for the Planet of the Apes, Power Rangers, and Riverdale.
Please tell us about the projects you are working on.
I have 3 movies due for release this summer, and I’m currently working on a TV show that will be aired on a major US network this fall. I have 2 scripts I wrote going into production this year. Things are really turning around after Covid! And I’m also producing a script I wrote in Vancouver, Canada, at the end of the summer. I also have several scripts in various stages of development with established producers and directors. It’s a busy time! It’s great!
What’s your favorite genre to write in?
I love thrillers. Being able to excite the audience and take them on a ride.
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
That’s a tough question! I think hard work and determination are key. You got to love what you do. The film industry is a very tough business to crack, and there are many nos and setbacks, but the most important thing is to see them as stepping stones. The right mindset is very important!
Who are your biggest influences?
An impossible question! There are so many. I love the old-school war movies like Guns of the Navarone, The Eagle has Landed, Von Ryan’s Express, anything by Brian G. Hutton. I love Scorsese, Cameron, Speilberg, Carpenter, Mann… I could go on and on.
Any message for anyone looking to get into screenwriting?
Just start. Set yourself a goal. Write one page a day, and in 3 months, you’ll have a script. Then write and rewrite and rewrite some more! Listen to podcasts about screenwriting, read books on it. Every day is a school day. I’ve had quite a bit of success, but I still learn new things every day about the craft.
Would you like to give any top tips?
Structure and character arc are probably where most beginners fall down. If you can master the 3 act structure and create a great arc, you’re 90% ahead of everyone else!
Fantastic! So tell us, how can people find out more about you?
Check out my IMDb page, and you can find all the shows and movies I have worked on.
Thank you so much for giving us your precious time! We wish you the best for your journey ahead!