Expat

Abstract

“Expat” is a television pilot screenplay based on my personal experience living abroad in Austria in my early thirties. In the pilot episode, Olivia moves to Austria for love and a dream career opportunity, only to lose both by the episode’s end. Confronted with uncertainty and her own stubbornness, Olivia must choose between returning home and forging a new path forward. This thesis project examines the emotional complexities of living overseas in one’s thirties with limited proximity to blood family and support systems – ultimately allowing space for an “expat” family. Blending drama and comedy, the pilot episode also explores the tension between life’s darkness and its moments of joy, a dynamic that serves as an overarching theme of the series. “Expat” explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, the psychological shadow, and imposter syndrome, and asks what becomes possible when life diverges from the plan.