A ghost story about new motherhood? A TV writer’s debut novel explores the female psyche

As a cinephile who has traversed the winding paths of Hollywood, I find Jacquie Walters’ journey to be nothing short of inspiring. From her humble beginnings at the University of Virginia, where she designed a self-directed major that reflected her diverse interests, to her unexpected detour into reality television, Walters has consistently demonstrated an uncanny ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.

Jacquie Walters’ first book, “Dearest,” set for release on September 17, delves into the horror genre, exploring themes of new motherhood such as breastfeeding and the psychological impact of postpartum hormones. Given that Walters herself has two young children and resides in Brentwood, California, she is intimately familiar with this subject matter. Apart from her career as a scriptwriter, she has penned several television pilots, one of which is an adaptation of Melissa de la Cruz’s popular vampire series, “Blue Bloods.

For the fresh writer who earned their degree in film and theater from the University of Virginia, the path towards screenwriting and fiction has been roundabout. Originally intending to act upon moving to Los Angeles, they found themselves frequently overlooked during auditions, leaving them feeling that success was largely unpredictable and beyond their control. In search of something where they could take responsibility for their outcomes, they unexpectedly found themselves working on a reality show for National Geographic.

In essence, there’s more to Walters than just the chilling tale spun in her latest novel. From my home office, I recently shared insights into my Hollywood journey, discussing how one of Tina Fey’s scripts served as a textbook and elaborating on why horror fiction offers unique perspectives on taboo topics.

Initially, it appears that a scriptwriter isn’t typically associated with the University of Virginia as your first choice.

At the University of Virginia, I was part of the Echols Scholars Program, a unique opportunity that enables students to create an individualized major. My major, therefore, combined film and theater studies. I opted against specialized conservatory programs focusing on a single industry, as I desired a comprehensive college experience. I firmly believe that creatives should avoid isolation, as we are meant to represent the entirety of humanity. Consequently, one aims for this breadth when acting, writing, or directing.

How did your experience with the National Geographic show lead to your current work?

Initially, the show’s producer inquired about my readiness to journey. Excitedly, I affirmed, envisioning a chance to swim with sharks in South Africa or chase polar bears in Alaska. Surprisingly, instead, I was dispatched to a rugged campsite in Vermont for a series titled “Building Wild.” It turns out that’s where the story “Dearest” is set. During this experience, I became quite familiar with Vermont’s weather and terrain. Additionally, my typing skills significantly improved as I was responsible for jotting down field notes, often simultaneously transcribing interviews conducted by three producers at once.

But you missed being more creative.

Initially, I embarked on the path of realizing my script, as at that moment, I was deeply immersed in comedy. I looked up to figures like Amy Poehler and Kristen Wiig, among others who began their careers as writers. The idea struck me that perhaps the key lay in writing. I recognized my own work habits and understood that a deadline would spur me on. Coincidentally, the Austin Film Festival was approaching, so I submitted something. When my script advanced to the second round, it boosted my self-assurance. Interestingly, I hadn’t enrolled in any screenwriting courses. My very first pilot was crafted by using a printed version of one of Tina Fey’s early “30 Rock” drafts as a guide.

Let’s discuss the topic “Dearest.” Jackie, hasn’t it been said that traditional books are obsolete and nobody reads physically anymore?

Initially, I believed I was overly optimistic about the demise of books. Throughout my life, a book has been a constant companion, and the idea of writing one myself had lingered in my mind. As I contemplated penning a novel, I realized I needed accountability, so I enrolled in the Stanford novel writing program. Although I felt out of place among peers who aspired to create the next literary masterpiece, my ambition was to emulate “Gone Girl”. While I didn’t write the sequel to that bestseller, the experience taught me valuable lessons about story structure. This newfound understanding led me to explore writing dark crime thrillers instead of comedies, eventually resulting in the sale of my first drama pilot to ABC network. Unfortunately, just three days before filming commenced, production was halted due to COVID-19 in March 2020.

You also had a baby that year, correct?

Absolutely! Our firstborn arrived in August 2020, but due to the pandemic, we weren’t able to utilize a gift of a night nurse for two weeks as planned. Those nights were tough, especially when I struggled with breastfeeding, feeling both frustrated and heartbroken. The experience was so challenging that it brings tears to my eyes just recalling it now. I couldn’t help but feel disappointed and guilty because I wasn’t able to do something that other moms made seem effortless. Despite trying various methods, nothing seemed to work for us except continuous pumping, which only added to the isolation as I wasn’t with our baby during those moments. When I eventually switched to formula feeding for our second child, it was an incredibly liberating choice.

In movies like “Dearest,” I’ve noticed that mothers-to-be are significantly affected by potent hormones, just as much as their newborns. It’s fascinating to see how these hormonal changes shape their experiences and relationships.

Reflecting on the initial days following childbirth, I recall lying in the hospital bed, cradling my newborn while enduring excruciating abdominal pain. The nurses eventually explained, “Your uterus is contracting.” To my surprise, it was even more agonizing the second time around – a fact that no one prepares you for. It seems that difficulties we anticipate to lessen, often do not. I believe this silence surrounding childbirth and motherhood is deeply rooted in our culture. Women rarely witness breastfeeding or discuss postpartum issues before they encounter them personally. This, I suspect, is why I find horror so compelling. While some may shy away from tales of postpartum psychosis, everyone can appreciate a chilling ghost story. If that ghost story manages to spark thoughts about conditions like postpartum psychosis, then my objective has been achieved.

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2024-09-16 13:32