The Writing University conducts a series of interviews with writers while they are in Iowa City participating in the various University of Iowa writing programs. We sit down with authors to ask about their work, their process and their descriptions of home.

Today we are talking with Blake Kellinger, a double major in Cinema and Screenwriting, graduating in the class of 2024. Blake is from Huntley, Illinois, and chose Iowa for its amazing film program.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about what brought you to the University of Iowa? 

What brought me to the University of Iowa is the Cinema/Screenwriting program itself. I never really felt like travelling into Chicago nor Los Angeles, but Iowa was not only the best location for me, but it felt like I could focus on my work here. The campus is so beautiful here, and the program itself is so enticing, it pushes me to be the best.

2. What is the inspiration for your work right now?

My inspiration for my work are two things: One, my personal life stories that sneak into my scripts, and two, inspirations from many movies and tv shows that helps me format my own unique story.

3. Do you have a daily writing routine? 

I've been writing at least a page a day; I have three scripts in the making, so I try my best to alternate and write a page each.

4. What are you reading right now? Are you reading for research or pleasure? 

I am reading tons of Game of Thrones books, mainly for pleasure since I love the tv series (For the most part).

5. Tell us about where you are from - what are some favorite details you would like to share about your home?

I am from Huntley, Illinois, about three hours from Iowa. I've always been a film lover ever since I was a child, and I've been making tons of amateur short films until college, then I started producing legit films.

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Thank you for talking with us today, Blake!