Script File
The Widow Daredevil
When a 63-year old charm school teacher’s life takes an unexpected financial downturn, she attempts to reverse her fortunes by becoming a daredevil, inadvertently igniting a movement among her students that leads to women’s suffrage.
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Rich TalaricoWriterKey & Peele, MADtv, SNL, Tonight Show w. Jay Leno
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Project Type:Screenplay
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Genres:Comedy, Drama, Adventure, Satire
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Number of Pages:118
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Country of Origin:United States
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Language:English
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First-time Screenwriter:No
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Student Project:No
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2020 Beverly Hills Film FestivalBeverly Hills, CA
Official Selection -
2025 The Grey ListHollywood, CA
Official Selection
Rich is a Peabody® Award-winning writer/producer with four Emmy® and four WGA Award nominations, best known for his work on Key & Peele. Rich was responsible for K&P fave Substitute Teacher, (“…Ay-ay-Ron?”) which in 2024 was added to The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum Of American History. Rich wrote dozens of K&P faves: Racist Zombies, Karim and Jahar, Hatz, Teaching Center, Obama Greets, Black Ice to name a few. Other TV credits include: MADtv, The Tonight Show w. Jay Leno, Saturday Night Live, and the critically-acclaimed, Review. An alum of Chicago’s Second City and Improv Olympic, Rich appeared on screen on Late Night with Conan O’Brien, MADtv, the feature film High Fidelity, and in A&W Root Beer’s classic TV ad, “Mr. Dumass.” Talarico’s extensive experience in the comedy industry has made him a sought-after teacher, writer and consultant. Rich is currently teaching and performing improv and stand-up comedy around the US.
Growing up in Central New York State, not far from the mesmerizing Niagara Falls, I was always inspired by stories of extraordinary individuals who dared to push the limits of possibility. One story that captured my imagination was that of Annie Edson-Taylor, the very first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel—an audacious act that no one had attempted before. Her remarkable courage inspired me and ultimately leading to the creation of "The Widow Daredevil."
This screenplay is more than just a whimsical comedy; it’s a heartfelt exploration of what it means to be an independent woman in a world that often seeks to stifle that independence. Set between 1897 and 1921, this dynamic period in history is filled with vibrant characters, cultural shifts, and the fight for women’s suffrage. I aimed to capture that spirit—a fun yet poignant journey that resonates with the complexities of our modern lives. As I delved into Annie’s story, I crafted a narrative rich in both humor and serious undertones. My goal was to create a character who is deeply relatable, embodying flaws and aspirations that resonate universally. Annie is funny, eccentric, prickly, and at times desperate, yet she remains profoundly human.
I believe audiences will connect with her journey, wanting to share a drink and unpack her struggles and triumphs. The scenes in which Annie confronts the falls are intense and thrilling; they inspired a sense of vertigo as I wrote them. I wanted the audience to feel that rush of fear and excitement, to be on the edge of their seats as she takes each daring leap. Much like films such as "Erin Brockovich," "The Greatest Showman," and "Florence Foster Jenkins," "The Widow Daredevil" blends humor with an inspiring narrative, showcasing that even in our most desperate moments, we can ignite change and inspire others. Ultimately, I hope audiences walk away from this film not only entertained but also encouraged to reflect on the power of determination and the enduring quest for independence—socially, financially, and spiritually. Annie’s journey is a wild ride, and I can’t wait for people to join her on this exhilarating adventure.
