Arnett Wins International Screenwriting Award

Robert Arnett, director of film studies and associate professor of communication and theatre arts, has won a PAGE International Screenwriting Award for his historical screenplay, "Datsun Saves." More than 3,800 entries were submitted, placing Arnett's script in the top 1 percent.

"The number of entrants speaks to how fierce the competition is in these international screenplay contests," said Gary Edgerton, chair of the communication and theatre arts department. "Bob's recognition is well earned and well deserved."

Arnett received the silver prize (2nd) in the historical category for scripts based on true historical characters and events, biopics and docudramas. "Datsun Saves" is a fictional telling of a real situation regarding two men, one Japanese and the other American, who brought the first Japanese cars to America in 1960.

"Overall it is a drama," said Arnett, "looking at overcoming racism, the reinvention of the car in America in the '60s and the way the car business worked, but with a lot of humor in it. Both of my characters are very quirky."

"Winning the award is a distinct privilege and will be a big help in marketing my screenplay," he added.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards contest, established by an alliance of Hollywood producers, agents and development executives, seeks to discover new scripts by up-and-coming writers from across the country and around the world. This year, more than $30,000 in cash and prizes was awarded.

More information about the competition and winners is available at http://www.internationalscreenwritingawards.com/page-2008-flash.htm.