Introduce Yourself : Writer focused on darker, character-driven stories by Salustiano Berrios

Salustiano Berrios

Writer focused on darker, character-driven stories

Hi everyone.

I write psychological horror and grounded sci-fi, mostly centered on family dynamics and uncomfortable emotional territory.

Currently sharing a feature that leans into those themes pretty heavily.

Looking forward to connecting with people working in similar spaces.

This script goes DARKER than you may be used too.

Amanda Toney

Sounds like an awesomely uncomfortable place to be Salustiano Berrios! Who or what would you say were your biggest influences for your work?

Salustiano Berrios

For this particular project, my son. I struggled accepting his autism diagnosis for more years than I’d like to admit. Writing this script—and my novel it was based off of—was cathartic, exciting, and ultimately healing.

I managed to write something that is at once a thrilling horror ride, as it is a meditation on the expectations we bring into parenthood.

This script goes places most don’t, anymore. It is The Excorcist for this generation, and I say that with my chest. It’s a movie that SAYS something, and will have audiences debating it for years.

Would love to share more with you Amanda Toney

Amanda Toney

I love that your writing gave you your outlet and that you were able to channel it to completed work. You're going to find a great collaborator here in the community, I'm sure of it!

Salustiano Berrios

Thank you Amanda Toney … that collaborator is You!

Ashley Renée Smith

Hi Salustiano Berrios, welcome to Stage 32! I’m Ashley, Head of Community here on the platform. It’s great to meet you, and your focus on psychological horror and grounded sci-fi rooted in family dynamics sounds like a really compelling space to explore.

I’d encourage you to spend time in the Screenwriting Lounge (https://www.stage32.com/lounge/screenwriting). There are a lot of writers there working in darker, character-driven genres who would really connect with what you’re building. It’s a great place to share your work, join conversations, and find like-minded creatives.

You may also want to check out the Writer’s Room, especially if you’re looking to take things to the next level. It offers access to industry professionals, exclusive discussions, and Open Writing Assignments. You can explore a free first month here:

https://www.stage32.com/writers-room/plans-vip

I did take a look at your profile to learn a bit more about you, especially since your professions include an interest in acting, but I noticed your bio is still blank. Taking some time to fill that out with your interests, experience, and goals will go a long way in helping others understand your voice and connect with you more easily. I highly suggest giving that some time this week.

What draws you most to exploring those darker themes in your storytelling?

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