Of Aliens and Interviews

Of Aliens and Interviews

By M.A.R. Unger

In order to write my Matti James forensic mystery series, I delved into scientific articles, textbooks, and sources cited by forensic experts. Only afterward could I conduct interviews. Interviews! Memories of an early disaster—and near disaster—still curdle my blood.

The Steel Pier, Atlantic City, NJ

A high school girlfriend and I passed ourselves off as reporters to gain an interview with movie star, singer, and heartthrob James Darren. As we sat in the Green Room, I listened to my friend ask Darren about his career and co-stars. Me? I simply stared at the most handsome man in the world. When he asked if I had any questions, I snapped to red-faced attention just as aliens took control of my brain. (That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.) Nothing else explains the words that spurted out: “What’s your favorite vegetable?”

Film Conference, New York City

I don’t remember the host university. I do remember Otto Preminger’s presentation—or rather, his audience of film students. Many wore black outfits accented by bright, neon-colored scarves. My blue shirtdress added nothing to the drama unfolding in the room.

When the presentation ended, I decided to find the cafeteria. By the time I arrived, nearly all the tables were filled. Undaunted, I ordered lunch, paid, and took my tray on a tour of the room. There I spotted Otto Preminger alone at a table, flicking his wrist to turn away wannabe stars. When I walked past, Preminger straightened, pointed at me, and bellowed, “You, not an actress, SIT!”

I complied only seconds before the aliens returned. They reminded me I had never seen Preminger’s films and knew little about movies or filmmaking. In this awkward situation, I decided to nod at the director’s remarks and not mention films—or vegetables.

Preparation Is Everything

Success finally came during a Woodward-Bernstein press conference. My questions elicited lengthy answers and discussions. Why? I read the book!

Preparation is everything. Once experts realize an author has done the homework, they are eager to “talk shop.”

My first paranormal forensic mystery, Bits and Pieces, required a great deal of preparation. I spoke in detail with scientists and police. My recent thriller, Endangered Species, is set within a large, lavish, real showgirl extravaganza that is about to close. For their personal experiences and insights, I interviewed the managers, dancers, choreographers, and stagehands of the world’s last real showgirl production: Las Vegas’s Jubilee!.

I am pleased to announce the aliens have moved on after I mastered the art of preparation. They’re back on the hunt for unprepared, would-be interviewers.