Screenwriter Diablo Cody has spent many years making a name for herself in Hollywood. She continually creates thought-provoking and brutally honest works of cinema. This Italian-American broke down dozens of barriers in the film industry to get her brilliant stories told.
Born in Chicago on June 14, 1978, Diablo Cody, birth name Brooke Busey, was destined to create a stir wherever she went. Her youth was a happy time in her life, and despite the belief that high school is the worst, Cody admits she enjoyed her time spent there. Later, she attended the University of Iowa and graduating with a degree in media studies.
After graduation, Cody moved to Minnesota and worked for an ad agency. However, this job was too boring and mentally exhausting for this creative fireball, so she turned to stripping instead. Yes, you read that correctly, Cody spent about a year working as a stripper. She also worked as a freelance journalist and an associated arts editor. Eventually, Cody started a blog and wrote a memoir about her experiences as a stripper.
On the topic of this career choice, Cody said, “I often look back and try to rationalize that decision, because it seems so weird and I’ve to a lot of different decisions, one of which was that I was just looking for something to write about.”
A few years later, Diablo Cody became a household name when the movie Juno hit the big screen. She represented a fresh new female voice in the crowded boys club that is Hollywood. Even before the movie blew up, Cody was being courted by some of the industry’s elite creators, who recognized her immense talent. One of these individuals happened to be Steven Spielberg. He had Cody write the pilot for Showtime’s upcoming series, The United States of Tara.
Since this breakthrough, Cody has gathered up 18 writing credits, 15 producer credits, and also directed the 2013 Julianne Hough movie, Paradise.
Of course, this outspoken and self-assured woman has faced backlash for her unconventional background and refusal to conform to the status quo. However, that has never bothered her. In fact, Cody has learned to play the game like a pro.
“When you’re in a competitive environment, always give out the impression that you don’t care. It makes people want you more.”
Currently, Cody is working on a Madonna biopic, an untitled HBO project, and a reboot of the Powerpuff Girls tv series. Nothing appears to be slowing down this creative force.
Sources:
- Diablo Cody [IMDB]
- Cody Interview [The Guardian]
- Feature Picture [Flickr]
