Interview With The Beauty of Love Writer - Mara Krausz
Have you ever wondered what inspired the script to your favorite movie, or what events from a writer’s life influenced their work? I had the opportunity to sit down with Mara Krausz, writer of the romantic-comedy The Beauty of Love to learn all about what inspired her and the process of taking her script, and turning it into a full length film!
Tell me about yourself and what inspired you to be a writer
I became a writer entirely by accident. I had an idea for a pilot and was having trouble getting a writer. One day, I decided to write a framework, thinking that might make it easier to get a writer on board. The feedback I was getting from friends inspired me to continue. I ended up writing the script myself, and after I signed a shopping agreement with a well-known actor, I realized writing was my path. In addition to screenwriting, I’ve had an essay in the Boston Globe and published a guided journal/coloring book called “Exploring Me: A Guided Journal for Self-Discovery and Creative Expression.”
What was the inspiration behind The Beauty of Love when you first started conceptualizing the story and working on the script?
I developed the story with the producers of the movie. We all loved setting it at an inn. It’s not just a cozy, romantic setting, but it’s how we get to know this close-knit, supportive family of Jesse, Jill, and their dad, Carl, who owns the inn. Jesse is this wonderful big brother who’d do anything for his kid sister. Though he’s learning to find his own way as well.
Initially, Jill and Jesse’s skincare line was part of a cozy, self-care vibe and then I added my own fondness for small family farms. What if they didn’t just make beauty products but grew their own botanicals as well at the inn. This passion and caring for what you are creating in a holistic way is something the characters and I share.
Then in comes Emma, who seemingly comes from a different world, not sure that she and her influencer platform or business fit in. Nor does she even really want to. But she is, for the moment, giving Jesse and Jill a shot.
Was “Vermont Botanicals” influenced by a real world company and was Emma based on a real world influencer?
Vermont Botanicals wasn’t inspired by a specific company though there are skincare lines that grow their own botanicals. Mostly, it was influenced by my own fondness of farmers markets and fresh herbs/produce. The first time I saw chocolate mint at a farmers market, I was so excited such a plant existed and amazed that it really did taste like chocolate. That memory inspired the Vermont Botanicals mint line.
I didn’t base Emma on anyone specific. What I love about her is that she has an authenticity and genuineness that you don’t always see. So often influencers are mainly about the clicks and crafting the perfect image. I wanted Emma to be a little more grounded. I also had her develop a sweet friendship with Carl, and she even helps him out in the romance department.
Which scene in The Beauty of Love was the most satisfying to see come to life in the final cut of the film? How was it working with director Lindsay Hartley and the rest ofthe production team bringing the vision from the script to the screen?
What I most looked forward to was seeing the relationship unfold between Emma and Jesse—the sparks, little moments, their banter. That’s often what I’ll remember from a movie—a look, a sweet moment, witty flirting, etc. And it was very satisfying to see the scene near the end where they finally admit their feelings to each other. Katerina Eichenberger and Jonathan Stoddard give such beautiful life to it.
Lindsay Hartley was fabulous to work with. She had such a wonderful vision, especially for the end of the movie and the changes we made there to the script. The whole production team and crew did an amazing job. Not only is the inn beautiful, I was also so impressed with how pretty the Vermont Botanicals products and facilities are. It’s a whimsical display of botanicals, herbs, and beauty products. I can’t help think how much fun it would be to play and experiment with everything like they do in the movie.
Do you ever find your writing to be influenced by things going on in your life or things you’ve experienced? If so, which character in The Beauty of Love do you find yourself relating to the most?
Yes, my life experiences influence my writing. Sometimes it’s the basis for a story, like when I was inspired by my time as a chocolatier. Other times, it’s a shared character trait, backstory, or little incidents. I’ve always had a bit of an entrepreneurial spirit, which both Emma and Jill have as well. As far back as high school, I’d be pondering ideas to do. I relate to Emma and Jill’s passion and commitment to their vision. Both women have found a way to be successful in business without compromising who they are or their ideals.
What is your favorite movie of all time?
I have various favorites from different eras, but I’ll go with a classic—Bringing Up Baby. Cary Grant is still my ultimate leading man. He had that perfect combination of charm and humor. He and Katharine Hepburn are brilliant in this film, considered to be among the best screwball comedies. I love romantic comedies with humor, quick wit, and sharp banter, and it doesn’t get better than this.
If you’re not eating your fries with ketchup, what’s your go to dipping sauce?
I wish I had a more exciting answer, but more often than not, I don’t even use ketchup. I’m a bit of a fry purist; I don’t need anything else. And if we’re talking shape, I like a standard skinny fry.
When you’re not working on a script, what would your friends find you doing?
I love to travel, though I haven’t gone as much as I’d like, lately. Both at home and while traveling, I love checking out the food scene, especially farm-to-table restaurants. Sometimes, I’ll watch a little football or basketball. Emma and Jesse’s meet cute was inspired by the football fan in me.
If you could control the weather, what season would it be year-round and why?
Sometimes it feels like we don’t really have seasons in Southern California, but I’ll pick spring. It’s not too hot or cold. The wildflowers, jacaranda, and cherry blossoms are blooming. Berries are back, and maybe even some early stone fruit. Plus, it’s an excellent time to travel before the summer crowds.