King of Crimps: Pilot (Teleplay)
Honors – SWN Screenplay Competition Finalist (2022) / Screencraft TV Pilot Contest Quarterfinalist (2022)
Reviews – “There are many clear and present similarities between this pilot and the HBO masterpiece Deadwood. Without a doubt, there is no question that bringing King of Crimps to life on screen would be a production designer, art director, and visual effects supervisor’s dream. There is a self-assuredness in the writing, wherein it is quite easy to feel the confidence of your storytelling and the sense that the narrative has actual direction.” – SWN Sokolow Awards
“It’s a good sign for a historical piece if I am compelled to research more into the truths and history behind it – this script had me doing that in spades. I could absolutely see this as a successful historical crime drama similar in nature to the likes of Deadwood, Boardwalk Empire and Black Sails. There are several excellent moments of humor and sharp, dynamic conversations.” – Shore Scripts
“The script works because of the many authentic elements in use. The place, atmosphere, time and people are established clearly with specific details. The dialogue is striking and seems truthful for these types. There’s just enough humor to strike a nice balance between the drama and some grounded comedy. You set up a compelling series with well-drawn characters and an atmosphere and place clearly captures with good visual writing. I enjoyed reading this because of the authentic world you create. The rich specifics bring us up and close as observers of this wild world of crimps.” – Screencraft
“This is an awesome pilot. It’s exciting and gritty. I learned a bit of history while also being entertained. Can’t wait to read more!” – Sam G. (Beta Reader)
Marathon Men (Screenplay)
Honors – Missouri Scriptwriting Fellowship Finalist (2021) / Screencraft True Story Competition Finalist (2020) / Filmmatic Pitch Now Semifinalist (2022) / Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition Quarterfinalist (2020)
Reviews – “This is a very well-written script. This is a film I want to see. And one that has immense potential to say something important about sports, politics, culture, history, and even St. Louis. I would encourage the writer to keep the effort going.” – Missouri Film Office
“This is a great concept and perfect idea for a feature film.” – Screencraft
“I love this premise and I love the way you brought the unique characters to life in the behind the scenes unbelievable but true story. This was a great story, a great depiction of an historic event. A great walk between history, comedy, and good story telling.” – Missouri Film Office
“This is a very funny script. There are a number of compelling and hilarious characters. You do a great job of pacing.” – Screencraft
“This is a genuinely fascinating story that is exceedingly well told. The read is fluid and the pace is brisk. It is clear you are really in command of this narrative.” – Screencraft
A Name You Can Trust (Screenplay)
Honors – Table Read My Screenplay Contest Semifinalist (2021) / Screencraft Drama Competition Semifinalist (2020)
Reviews – “There might be a few movies that deal with similar subjects, but A Name You Can Trust manages to come as a very fresh option thanks to its setting, characters, tone, and honest take. This is a compelling, poignant story that needs to be told. This feels like the kind of movie Netflix would do, and it could become a solid contender for the awards season.” – Golden Script Fellowship
“This script is a very engaging and well written. I have very few notes.” – Screencraft
“You captured the details about the period very well! You obviously understand and have developed your skills on how to write a movie script to a very high level, and this comes across as very professionally written.” – Evan V. (Beta Reader)
“This was a great ending and read. I thoroughly enjoyed it.” – Sam G. (Beta Reader)
Johnny Glitz: Thanks for the Memories! (Screenplay)
Reviews – “I am hugely impressed. What you have written reflects the time and energy you have invested. It has been a great pleasure! – Cai Emmons (2003 Oregon Book Awards)
King of Crimps: Volume I (Novel)
Reviews – “The first thing that jumps from the page is your facility with language. This is good work and good writing.” – Otis Haschemeyer, Ph.D. (Stanford Writer’s Studio)
“I love this narrator. You’ve created a very memorable character with a distinct voice.” – Sarah Blakley-Cartwright (New York Times Bestseller)
“It’s a page-turner. I kept finding myself wondering what was going to happen next. The dialogue is great; really interesting, fast paced, and clever. Fantastic wordsmithery!” Nicci H. (Beta Reader & High School English Teacher)
ajmurga.com 