In the world of storytelling, sometimes the most powerful narratives are those that draw from personal experiences. Such is the case with Laura Hankin's journey, which has now been immortalized in the Netflix movie 'Don't Say Good Luck.'
A Personal Journey on Screen
For writer Laura Hankin, the process of turning her real-life story into a movie was a deeply personal one. As a high school junior, she found herself navigating the complexities of life and death while also embracing the joy of performing in her school's musical. This delicate balance between the mundane and the profound is what makes her story so captivating.
"It was so hard to know how to deal with it—so hard to find the balance of like, 'Is it okay to be happy and care about crushes, or should I give up everything?'" - Laura Hankin
This internal struggle is a universal experience, especially during the tumultuous teenage years. Hankin's ability to capture this raw emotion and transform it into a fictional narrative is a testament to her skill as a writer.
Honoring Reality, Shaping Fiction
While the characters and story in 'Don't Say Good Luck' are fictional, the emotions and experiences they portray are rooted in Hankin's reality. She explains her approach:
"I wanted to honor my mom, the theater community, and also make the best movie. It's a balance.
This delicate dance between honoring personal experiences and crafting a compelling narrative is a challenge many writers face. Hankin's decision to add an extra brother and set the story in a different place showcases her understanding of the fine line between reality and fiction.
The Power of Adaptation
What prompted Hankin to adapt her story as a movie was a transformative experience - watching Bo Burnham's 'Eighth Grade.' This film, which takes the inner lives of teenage girls seriously, inspired Hankin to believe that her own experiences could resonate with a wider audience.
"My own experience as a teen girl was intense and interesting. I felt like it could be shared.
The decision to adapt her story as a movie also allowed Hankin to utilize the power of music, a key element in the original musical she performed in. The inclusion of Sara Bareilles' music adds an emotional depth that words alone might not capture.
Maintaining Authenticity
Throughout the drafting process, Hankin's focus remained on maintaining the story's authenticity. Despite revisions and input from others, the heart and tone of the story remained unchanged. This commitment to authenticity is what makes 'Don't Say Good Luck' so compelling.
"The most important thing was for people to recognize themselves and their loved ones in the story.
Collaboration and Creative Freedom
Working with director Julia Hart and producer Jordan Horowitz, Hankin found a collaborative environment that respected her vision. She was able to offer insights and guidance while allowing the actors, particularly Sunny Sandler and Melanie Lynskey, the creative freedom to build their characters.
"I wanted them to build the characters in a way that made sense to them. Sunny's performance will blow people away.
The Sandler Family's Touch
The involvement of the Sandler family, particularly Adam Sandler, added a unique dynamic to the production. Adam's presence on set brought a level of energy and professionalism that impressed Hankin. His contributions, from funny jokes to deeply emotional lines, showcase his versatility as an artist.
"He was pushing for it to be more natural and real. He knows what he's doing.
A Cameo and a Full Circle Moment
Hankin's cameo as an English teacher in the film was a fun full-circle moment. It allowed her to step into the world of acting, something she loved as a teenager, and connect with the other actors on set.
"It was nice to do a little acting, especially given how important it was to me growing up.
Conclusion
'Don't Say Good Luck' is a testament to the power of personal storytelling. Through her journey, Laura Hankin has not only created a compelling coming-of-age drama but also honored the memory of her mother and the theater community that shaped her. It's a reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories are those closest to our hearts.
