For anyone interested in screenwriting Dan O'Bannon is an important figure, but for anyone interested in science-fiction screenwriting, the man who penned Dark Star, Alien, Total Recall and so much more is nothing short of a god.

Dan was working on a screenwriting book to teach people about his approach to writing, something he called dynamic structure, but sadly he passed away in late 2009 before it was completed. His co-writer on the book, Matt Lohr, with his wife Diane's blessing, carried on that work and the finished book, Dan O'Bannon's guide to Screenplay Structure is available now, online and in all good book stores.

I was lucky enough to catch up with Matt & Diane recently to talk about the man, his life and work, and the process of bringing the book to fruition.

And for fans of Dark Star, SCI-FI-LONDON are screening the film at the BFI South Bank on Friday 3rd May with a new soundtrack performed live by electronica duo ANIMAT. It promises to be one of the events of the festival so don't miss out. Click here for more details and to book.

Enjoy the interview!