Diablo Cody Issue #41

From demonic possession to navigating Hollywood (and yes, even that pesky stripper issue), Oscar-winning writer Diablo Cody will now take your questions.

By Venus Zine Readers
Published: August 1st, 2009 | 12:00am

Part of the appeal of Juno was the emotional weight of the movie’s second half. Have you tried to expand on that with your more recent work? — Ethan, New York City
“Yes and no. Jennifer’s Body, for instance, is a genre film intended to entertain and titillate. It’s a popcorn flick, really. On the other hand, I recently tried writing a purely dramatic script. I wanted it to be simple, blunt, and emotional. It was an interesting exercise. I hope it helped me improve as a writer.”

What’s your favorite horror movie? — Hiko, Los Angeles
“Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors. It’s imaginative, funny, gory, and deliciously cheesy. Also, the screenplay was written by Frank Darabont. That’s a pretty impressive pedigree for a little horror sequel.”

How do you think Christians will react to Jennifer’s Body? — Guia, Chicago
“I was raised Catholic and I still identify as religious. The movie doesn’t have any anti-Christian content. People have been making horror movies about demonic possession for decades. That being said, the mere existence of Megan Fox is a major blow to the abstinence movement. Holy shit, is she hot.”

What kinds of stories are meaningful to you? — Erin, Los Angeles
“Women’s stories, absolutely! Here’s a little anecdote: When I was in high school, I routinely flunked history class. I thought it was a snore. And yet, whenever we learned about a female historical figure, my interest was suddenly piqued. I think that’s very revealing. How are women supposed to connect to stories when we can’t identify with them? Women are as underserved in Hollywood as they are in history books.”

Do you ever feel you have to put your passion and most creative ideas aside to meet the needs of money hungry moguls? — Sandro, Miami
“Oh man, every day of my life. People aren’t in this business to nurture artists. Also, the breakneck pace of the industry isn’t necessarily compatible with a writer’s process. Sometimes I have to turn in a draft before I’m completely happy with it. Sometimes I have to sign off on things I don’t agree with. It’s a small price to pay to do what I love for living.”

Why do you assert yourself as an “unlikely” stripper, and do you think your desire to differentiate yourself from “likely” dancers can be construed as demeaning to women in the sex industry? — Catherine, New York City
“’Unlikely’ isn’t a judgment. It’s a fact. I don’t know many strippers who are college-educated, 25-year-old suburban women who left potentially lucrative careers in order to hump a pole. Do you? Candy Girl isn’t some political manifesto; it’s a fluffy comedic memoir that most people blow through in about two hours and then move on with their lives.”