TRAIL OF TEARS
| NAME: | TRAIL OF TEARS |
| AWARDS: | BEST SCREENPLAY |
| DIRECTOR: | HANS SLUIJTER |
In a close-knit, dusty Western town, an unlikely group of friends – three spirited women (Neakita, Audley, Maruja) and three tough-as-nails ex-military men (Ned, Dutch, Sebastian) – share a deep bond. They find solace in the welcoming embrace of the local saloon, where laughter flows as freely as whiskey, and their connections run deeper than mere friendship, often blurring the lines of intimacy.
Unbeknownst to everyone, Neakita carries a haunting secret from her past. When she is summoned to the local police station to identify a man named Pascal, a face from the nation’s most-wanted list, the truth unravels. Pascal, the very monster who had kidnapped and subjected her to unspeakable horrors years ago, also shattering her world by taking the life of her innocent seven-year-old daughter. The town remains ignorant of this dark history until it’s too late.
Pascal’s chilling escape from police custody rekindles the nightmare, unleashing a torrent of torment upon Neakita and her loyal companions. The horrors intensify, culminating in the tragic demise of Dutch.
As the dust settles, a shocking revelation emerges – the local clothing designer, Winston, a regular at the saloon, held a sinister knowledge of Neakita’s past. The secrets, conveyed through a note Neakita left behind before her own tragic end, weigh heavily on Maruja’s heart, forever changing the dynamics of their small town.
In this gripping tale of secrets, betrayal, and tragedy, the bonds of friendship are tested, and the town’s innocence is shattered, leaving scars that may never heal.
“For The Freedom”, “Between Life and Death”, and “Trail of Tears” are contemporary modern-day Westerns that make up a screenplay trilogy, each featuring a female lead character. Although the stories and characters are unique, they are all set in the same town.
WRITER BIOGRAPHY – HANS SLUIJTER
Greetings from the Netherlands! I’m a Dutch native with a profound passion for storytelling that transcends borders and cultures. My journey in the world of cinema began on an unexpected path – as a teacher and sociologist. It was through my work and studies in human behavior that I discovered the intricate power of narratives to influence, inspire, and connect.
For the past four years, I’ve been fervently weaving my own stories into the fabric of the film industry. Teaming up with the talented Kevin Pike, known for his impressive work in the industry (check out his credits on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0683234), we embarked on an epic screenwriting adventure. Our collaboration resulted in a groundbreaking screenplay that, I believe, has the potential to captivate audiences worldwide.
My most ambitious project to date is a modern-day trilogy that delves deep into the human experience, exploring the complexities of our world and the ever-evolving dynamics of our society. These stories are a reflection of my passion for storytelling and my commitment to making a lasting impact on the cinematic landscape.
I’m incredibly grateful for the recognition I’ve received along the way, having garnered over 50 screenwriting awards in various contests. These accolades have been a testament to my dedication and the authenticity of my narratives.
As I continue my journey in the world of cinema, I eagerly await the moment when my roots will finally find their place. I firmly believe that my script will discover its rightful home within the right network, connecting with the hearts and minds of audiences, and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of storytelling. The journey is long, but I am patient, knowing that the right opportunity will come my way.
Thank you for being a part of my cinematic adventure. Together, we’ll make a profound impact on the world of film, one story at a time.
