Hello everyone! I'm Dr. Michael J. McDermott — a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, historian, theologian, author, and award-winning independent screenwriter. I write prestige thrillers, grounded sci-fi, faith-driven dramas, historical epics, and heartfelt holiday films. My work blends real-world experience with emotional depth, moral clarity, and cinematic storytelling.
Over the past few years, I've built a diverse slate of feature scripts, including Project G.H.O.S.T. (Honorable Mention – Big Apple Film Festival Screenplay Competition), The Final Cry, The Savior's Journey, Echelon Rising, and A Star-Spangled Christmas. I'm currently developing producer-ready packages for several projects and actively expanding my professional network.
I joined Stage 32 to connect with filmmakers, producers, writers, and creatives who love powerful stories — especially those rooted in character, tension, and meaning. I'm always open to collaboration, conversation, and creative partnerships.
If you work in thrillers, historical projects, faith-based storytelling, or holiday films, I'd love to connect. Looking forward to meeting many of you and supporting your journeys as well!
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Congratulations on wrapping your final two films of the year, Brittany Christine! I'm looking forward to seeing them!
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Even though I don’t have any holidays, I am still working on a thriller movie script whenever I get some free time. For now, I am not thinking about investors. I have full confidence that whoever reads this story will definitely like it.
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Hey Brandon Keeton, this is great advice! I get fewer auditions since I am edging ever so close to the age of 82, so I work on other things related to the business. I joined Film Florida seven years a...
Expand commentHey Brandon Keeton, this is great advice! I get fewer auditions since I am edging ever so close to the age of 82, so I work on other things related to the business. I joined Film Florida seven years ago and am on the legislative committee to work on getting film incentives for our state. This week, I have written several letters to members of the House Ways & Means Committee, urging them to move the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (HR721) out of committee for a vote. I read for another actor for his self-tapes. My wife and i love to travel and we'll be on a cruise ship this month for a week. Of course there is also spoiling my grandchildren and great grandson.
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Brandon Keeton, this is such a grounded and motivating perspective, and the Marine Corps wisdom is spot-on. There’s something powerful about using the quiet seasons to move with intention, even if the...
Expand commentBrandon Keeton, this is such a grounded and motivating perspective, and the Marine Corps wisdom is spot-on. There’s something powerful about using the quiet seasons to move with intention, even if the industry itself is catching its breath. I love your reminder that this season can be both restful and productive. There’s real value in taking a breath, but also real momentum to be found in working while everything is quiet. Your projects sound fantastic, and I hope your meeting with the investor goes incredibly well.
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Ray Watters THAT'S AWESOME!