WGA Screenwriter, Director, and Coach Brooks Elms
- Modern Spirit Style
- Oct 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 18
By Maria Panagiotidis
Brooks Elms is an impressively prolific WGA screenwriter who has written over 45 screenplays. He has also directed two independent features and created fifty short films. If that wasn't enough to keep him busy, he also offers coaching services to screenwriters and writer-directors. If you are an aspiring or produced screenwriter or director, Brooks Elms can help you with your craft, confidence and career as he provides career development and assistance. A look at his website displays glowing and positive reviews from those who have worked with the screenwriter and director, whether in a professional capacity or as a mentee.
Elms has three passions that he outlines on his website: making movies, personal growth and creating great teams. He made his first film when he was 15. He went on to study at NYU Film School, where he won a screenwriting award for his thesis film. Elms writes: "I love supporting people on their personal path. I don't try to 'fix' writers because there's nothing to fix. They're already perfectly developing at their own pace. So, I listen, identify and celebrate their unique 'superpower' and offer ideas when they're most helpful."
In this interview, Brooks Elms answers some questions about his career and the screenwriting process. You can find out more about Brooks Elms through his social media handles and website.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a WGA screenwriter who has written 45+ scripts and directed two indie features. I also love coaching writer-directors to navigate the wild mix of art, business, and personal growth that comes with realizing your dream career.
What services do you offer for produced and aspiring screenwriters?
I offer 1-on-1 coaching and semi-private through a step-by-step system that helps writers finish the best script of their life, singular to their vision, build industry traction, and actually enjoy the process more than ever.
What made you decide to offer services to screenwriters?
After teaching 1000+ students at UCLA Extension and seeing tepid results from traditional education's theory-driven approach, I started my coaching practice to help clients bridge the gap between craft, confidence, and career.
What do you love about the screenwriting process?
Understand the characters and myself more.
What advice do you have for aspiring screenwriters?
Enjoy the hell out of the exploration - especially the challenges. Let the adversity show you who you are at the deepest level and write THAT in your story.
What are your social media handles and website address?
LinkedIn: Brooks Elms
X / Twitter: @BrooksElms
Website: brookselms-coaching.com
How do you overcome writer’s block?
Curiosity. Ask yourself what's going on with the fear beneath the block. Befriend the fear. If this is a struggle to do on your own, reach out to me. I'll help.
How many feature films and short films have you written? Are there any projects being turned into films now?
I’ve written over forty-five screenplays, directed two indie features, and several projects are currently in the packaging process, one with an Oscar-winning producer.
What are the challenges that aspiring screenwriters face?
Most wrestle with sneaky, persistent self-criticism (like perfectionism), leading to self-doubt and major missed opportunities to realize their talent. I help mentees quiet the noise, trust their instincts, and keep going until the story sings.
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