Valerie Macon/Getty Images North America

Allan Durand (left) and Robert Shapiro attends The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences' Nicholl Fellowship Ceremony on November 8, 2012 in Beverly Hills, California.

The Academy Awards aren't just for billion-dollar blockbusters and art-house films.

Each year, the Academy presents up to 5 Nicholl Fellowships, where amateur screenwriters are awarded $35,000 to help launch their careers.

Allan Durand  was one recipient of the award this year. He's a lawyer based in Layfayette, Louisiana, who wrote "Willie Francis Must Die Again," the real-life story of a 16-year old who survived his first execution attempt on the electric chair. 

KPCC's Patt Morrison spoke with Durand about the only man to be executed twice in Louisiana.