in the other.
“So, tell me all about yourself,” he said, once she was seated and had her notebook on her lap.
She smiled. “What do you want to know? I’m here to talk about you.”
“Whatever you care to share. I like to get to know the people that I’ll be working with.”
“All right. Well, I grew up here, went to Boston College and got a job at Boston Style magazine after graduation. I’ve worked there ever since.” She paused and then admitted, “Well, until recently. I’m not on staff there anymore, just freelancing.”
He nodded. “I thought I read somewhere that the magazine was bought by a big corporation based out of New York.” She could see the sympathy in his eyes.
“Yes, so I’m shifting into doing freelance work and hoping to stay on Nantucket at least through the winter. Maybe longer if I can find enough work. I do love it here,” she added.
“It’s the most beautiful place I’ve been to,” Philippe said. “I knew, the first time I visited, over ten years ago, that I’d want to buy a home here.” He stared out the window and looked lost in thought. They were both quiet for a moment. Kate decided it was time to get started with her first questions.
“How did you first become involved with the film festival? Oh, and do you mind if I record our conversation?”
He shook his head. “No, of course I don’t mind. I was invited to participate when my first book was made into a film. That was quite a year. I’ve been involved with creating film or TV projects ever since.”
Kate remembered that book. Lucky Girl was an edge of the seat psychological thriller that had won Oscars for best picture, screenplay adaptation, which Philippe had also written, and for best actress. Which was how he’d met his now ex-wife, Laura Smith.
“Do you have to travel a lot?” she asked.
Philippe ran his hand through his wavy hair and then he leaned forward. She tried not to notice how green his eyes were as he spoke. “Yes and no. I’m often here for months at a time, when I’m writing something new. But then, I might travel for several months, usually to LA where most of the shows are filmed. That’s a lot of fun though.” His face lit up, and she asked him to explain what he meant.
“Well, writing a book is great, you’re in charge and it’s totally your vision. Having that turned into a film is fantastic, but you have to be okay with your story changing and letting other people mold it to their vision.” He paused before adding, “The writer is less important in film. But television, well, that’s where all the power is for a writer.”
Kate leaned forward, intrigued. “How is it different?” She didn’t have any idea how the writer’s role varied between the two mediums.
“Well, with TV, when it’s my story being produced and I’m the show runner, I’m involved in just about everything except directing. For example, I happened to casually mention that I’d love to cast someone like Michael C. Hall, the actor that played Dexter.” He paused and Kate nodded. She’d loved the show Dexter about the serial killer that only killed people that deserved to die.
“Well, they made it happen, and cast him for the lead. They’ve pretty much given me anything I’ve asked for, so far.” He grinned and his expression reminded Kate of a mischievous teenage boy. “The money is also a lot better than writing books. I get a nice piece of the profits.”
Kate glanced around the room and took in the luxurious leather and quality furnishings. Philippe was clearly doing very well for himself.
“That’s interesting. I can see why you’d prefer it.” Kate was quiet for a moment, and then found herself saying, “I was thinking that I might try to write a book too someday, maybe while I’m here this winter.” She felt a bit silly admitting it as she was such a beginner compared to him.
But he seemed enthusiastic about the idea. “Oh, you should. You obviously can write. What genre are you thinking of?”
“Mystery. I’ve always enjoyed puzzle stories, and investigations.”
He looked pleased with her answer. “Well, if you write it, I’d be happy to read it for you and offer suggestions. I don’t often do that. Only when I have a good feeling about someone, and I already know I like your writing.”
“You’ve read some of my work?” Kate was both surprised and flattered.
“Yes.