Bergman stresses the importance of being well read and educated in the liberal arts as the basis for being a good writer or screenwriter. "If you only see movies and TV, that's all you bring to it, and that's why we see so many remakes. Don't isolate yourself from experience."
Also known for writing and directing The Freshman, starring Marlon Brando and Matthew Broderick, Bergman thrives on being involved in the creative process. "I didn't start directing because they were wrecking things," Bergman says. "The creative, collaborative side is the best thing in the world."
Bergman established the Andrew Bergman Scholarship in Creative Writing, and has been back to campus to meet with winners and runners up. His advice for those starting out in the business?
"Follow your instinct. The best way to write is just to write."
